Places To Visit In Moscow: Top Attractions And Landmarks

Places to visit in Moscow offer a mix of grand history, modern marvels, and quirky cultural spots that make Russia’s capital a fascinating destination. From the iconic Red Square to futuristic skyscrapers, the city blends centuries-old traditions with contemporary urban life. Moscow is home to the Kremlin, a UNESCO-listed fortress, and St. Basil’s Cathedral, a masterpiece of Russian architecture. Meanwhile, its underground metro stations resemble palatial halls, and unique spots like the Museum of Soviet Arcade Machines. Moscow tourist places have something unforgettable to offer.

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10 Famous Places To Visit In Moscow

Explore historic landmarks, modern attractions, and quirky places to visit in Moscow, ranging from the Red Square to hidden Soviet-era gems.

1. Kremlin

The Kremlin is among the best places to visit in Moscow, a historic fortress complex housing government buildings

Photo: Дмитрий Трепольский / Pexels

The Kremlin, a historical fortified citadel, is at the heart of Moscow and stands as one of Russia’s most iconic landmarks. Meaning “fortified city,” it is the best-known of these citadels and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Originally constructed of wood in 1156, it was rebuilt in white stone in the 14th century and then in red brick in the late 15th century by Italian architects. Within its walls lie cathedrals, palaces, and government buildings reflecting Byzantine, Russian Baroque, and classical architectural styles.

Distance From Nearest Airport: Approximately 45 km from Domodedovo International Airport
Distance From Nearest Railway Station: Walking distance from Ploshchad Revolyutsii metro station
Best Time To Visit: May to June, September to October
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM (closed on Thursdays)

2. Red Square

The red square is among the best places to visit in Moscow surrounded by landmarks, symbolizing Russia’s rich history

Photo: Adam Baker / Wikimedia Commons

Red Square, the heart and soul of Moscow, is famous for its striking and elegant buildings, embodying a rich tapestry of Russian history and culture. This open square, located in the city center near the Kremlin’s northeastern wall, has been a focal point since the late 15th century. Key landmarks include the spectacular St. Basil’s Cathedral with its bright colors and exquisite details, the State Historical Museum, Kazan Cathedral, Lenin’s Mausoleum, and the GUM department store, making it one of the best tourist attractions in Moscow.

Distance From Nearest Airport: Approximately 35 km from Sheremetyevo International Airport
Distance From Nearest Railway Station: Walking distance from Okhotny Ryad metro station
Best Time To Visit: May to June, September to October
Timings: 24*7

3. Saint Basil’s Cathedral

Saint Basils Cathedral is among the best places to visit in Moscow, a colourful, onion-domed cathedral

Photo: Jorge Láscar / Wikimedia Commons

Saint Basil’s Cathedral, a symbol of Moscow, is celebrated for its elaborately carved architecture. Constructed from 1555 to 1561 under Ivan the Terrible, the cathedral features nine domes, each corresponding to a different chapel, shaped like a bonfire’s flame rising into the sky. The design incorporates architectural elements from Jerusalem, holding deep religious significance. The cathedral stands 65 meters tall and was the tallest building in Moscow until the end of the 16th century. Saint Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most popular spots on the Moscow tourist places list.

4. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Museum is among the best places to visit in Moscow showcasing Russian fine art and historical masterpieces

Photo: deror_avi / Wikimedia Commons

The State Tretyakov Gallery, a top choice for places to visit in Moscow, stands as a foremost depository of Russian fine art. Founded in the mid-19th century by Muscovite merchant Pavel Mikhailovich Tretyakov, the gallery’s history began in 1856 when Tretyakov started acquiring works by Russian artists with the goal of establishing a national art museum. By 1892, Tretyakov gifted his collection of approximately 2,000 works to the Russian nation. Today, the collection has expanded to over 130,000 exhibits and includes works from the 11th to the 21st centuries.

Distance From Nearest Airport: Approximately 35 km from Vnukovo International Airport
Distance From Nearest Railway Station: Walking distance from Tretyakovskaya metro station
Best Time To Visit: All year round
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM (closed on Mondays)

5. Pushkin Museum

Pushkin Museum is among the best places to visit in Moscow featuring European art, sculptures, and historical artefacts

Photo: Mike1979 Russia / Wikimedia Commons

The Pushkin Museum is one of the best places to visit in Moscow for those seeking to explore Russia’s cultural heritage. Opened in 1912 and named after the famous writer Alexander Pushkin, the museum showcases a wide array of artistic and cultural developments from ancient times to the present. Its collection includes over 700,000 items, such as paintings, sculptures, drawings, and archaeological finds.

Distance From Nearest Airport: Approximately 30 km from Sheremetyevo International Airport
Distance From Nearest Railway Station: Walking distance from Kropotkinskaya metro station
Best Time To Visit: All year round
Timings: 11 AM – 8 PM (closed on Mondays)

6. All-Russia Exhibition Centre

Grand exhibition space with Soviet-era architecture and cultural displays

Photo: Yevgeny Samarin / Wikimedia Commons

The All-Russia Exhibition Centre (VDNKh) is a monumental leisure park in Moscow, established in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet economy. Spanning over 2.3 million square meters, it features grand pavilions representing various industries and Soviet republics. Originally known as the All-Union Agricultural Exhibition, VDNKh has hosted numerous national and international exhibitions throughout its history. With its stunning architecture, fountains, and gardens, VDNKh is a must-see among places to visit in Moscow, offering a unique glimpse into the Soviet era’s legacy.

Distance From Nearest Airport: Approximately 25 km from Sheremetyevo International Airport
Distance From Nearest Railway Station: Walking distance from VDNKh metro station
Best Time To Visit: Summer
Timings: 11 AM – 10 PM

7. Museum Of Cosmonautics

Space museum highlighting Russia’s contributions to space exploration

Photo: miketnorton / Wikimedia Commons

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics in Moscow commemorates Russian achievements in space exploration. Opened in 1981 to mark the 20th anniversary of Yuri Gagarin’s pioneering space flight, the museum is located within the base of the Monument to the Conquerors of Space. The museum’s origins trace back to 1964, coinciding with the monument’s construction. Inside, visitors can explore over 85,000 exhibits, including spacesuits, satellite models, and spacecraft. For those seeking places to visit in Moscow, this museum is a must-visit.

Distance From Nearest Airport: Approximately 30 km from Sheremetyevo International Airport
Distance From Nearest Railway Station: Walking distance from VDNKh metro station
Best Time To Visit: All year round
Timings: 11 AM – 7 PM (closed on Mondays)

8. Cathedral Of Christ The Saviour

Majestic Orthodox cathedral with stunning frescoes and gold domes

Photo: DmitriyGuryanov / Wikimedia Commons

The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour stands as the main cathedral of the Russian Orthodox Church. Built to commemorate the victory over Napoleon in the War of 1812 and originally commissioned by Tsar Alexander I, its design was inspired by the Hagia Sophia in Constantinople. Construction spanned decades, beginning in 1839 and concluding in 1883. However, in 1931, the cathedral was destroyed as part of the state’s anti-religious campaign during the Bolshevik Revolution.

Distance From Nearest Airport: Approximately 35 km from Vnukovo International Airport
Distance From Nearest Railway Station: Walking distance from Kropotkinskaya metro station
Best Time To Visit: All year round
Timings: 9 AM – 7 PM

9. GUM Galleries

Luxurious shopping mall featuring elegant architecture and high-end stores

Photo: Vcarceler / Wikimedia Commons

GUM (Main Universal Store), situated in Moscow’s Red Square, stands as Russia’s premier shopping center. Constructed in the 1890s, it was initially known as the Upper Trading Rows. After the Bolshevik Revolution, GUM was nationalized and later served as office spaces. Reopened in 1953 as a department store, it became famous for its abundant supply of goods, drawing long queues. Today, GUM is home to high-end boutiques, gift shops, restaurants, and souvenir shops. With its rich history and architectural beauty, GUM is one of the top places for a Moscow trip.

10. Kazan Cathedral

Historic Orthodox cathedral is known for its striking red façade

Photo: Wolfgang Moroder / Wikimedia Commons

Kazan Cathedral, a charming Russian Orthodox church on Red Square in Moscow, holds historical and architectural significance. Originally built in 1625 to commemorate Moscow’s liberation from Polish forces in 1612, it was dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The revered icon of Our Lady of Kazan was believed to have played a crucial role in Russia’s victory. Its design reflects the style prevalent in the 17th century, characterized by grandeur and ornate religious symbolism, making it one of the most special places to visit in Moscow. After being demolished in 1936, it was rebuilt in the early 1990s.

Places to visit in Moscow range from historic treasures like the Kremlin to modern landmarks like Moscow City and quirky spots like the Soviet Arcade Museum. Whether exploring grand cathedrals, futuristic parks, or underground bunkers, Moscow offers an unmatched blend of past and present. The city’s cultural richness extends from ballet at the Bolshoi Theatre to street art in hidden alleys. Start planning your trip to Moscow with TripXL, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable journey through Russia’s vibrant capital.

Cover Photo: Alexander Smagin / Unspalsh

Top 10 Places To Visit In Moscow: Explore The Heart Of Russia’s Capital