Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Places to visit near Moscow provide an interesting blend of history, culture, and nature with easy access to the Russian capital. Ranging from spiritual monasteries to medieval kremlins, World War II battlefields to tank museums, these attractions are part of your tourist experience. Regardless of whether you yearn for religious grandeur, architectural splendour, outdoor adventure, or poignant historical revelations, Moscow’s surroundings are ideal for weekend trips. The region is scattered with incredible spots to visit, each a satisfying contrast to city life. From golden-domed monasteries to serene lake beaches and military history, these destinations will give your Russian holiday depth.
10 Places To Visit Near Moscow
Discover ten top places near Moscow, ranging from UNESCO World Heritage sites to tranquil forest havens, ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, and culture vultures.
1. Sergiyev Posad
Photo: Alexxx1979 / Wikimedia Commons
Sergiyev Posad, about 70 km northeast of Moscow, is among the most popular destinations near Sergiyev Posad, about 70 km northeast of Moscow, is among the best-known and spiritually significant destinations near the capital. The welcoming town has the UNESCO-protected Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, the most important Russian Orthodox monastery. With its glistening golden domes, frescoes of many centuries, and peaceful courtyards, the Lavra attracts pilgrims and tourists seeking historical depth and spiritual tranquillity. Beyond the monastery walls, visitors can tour the quaint Toy Museum, browse traditional Russian handicraft stalls, and indulge in local treats like honey cake and herbal tea.
How To Reach: 1.5 h suburban train from Yaroslavsky Station
Main Attractions: Trinity Lavra, Toy Museum, Chernigovsky Skete
Entry Fee: ₽300 / ₹330
2. Suzdal
Photo: Dmitry Makeev / Wikimedia Commons
Suzdal, north-east of Moscow, is a delightful town and a jewel in Russia’s Golden Ring, making it one of the most captivating places to visit near Moscow. This Unesco-designated place is renowned for its incredibly well-preserved wooden buildings, serene pastoral landscapes, and centuries-old monasteries. The town is more like an open-air museum, where tradition and history live through every street. Its principal sights are the Suzdal Kremlin and the open-air Wooden Architecture Museum, which showcases ancient Russian craftsmanship and rural life. The slow speed, cobblestone streets, and meandering rivers create a fantasy-like escape from the city bustle of Moscow.
How To Reach: Train from Vladimir + bus to Suzdal
Main Attractions: Kremlin, Museum of Wooden Architecture, monasteries
Entry Fee: ~₽700 / ₹850
3. Kolomna
Photo: Konstantin Ilinskiy / Unsplash
It is southeast of Moscow, but the quaint old town of Kolomna presents a lovely mixture of medieval architecture and sweet tradition. Its central attraction is the 16th-century well-preserved Kolomna Kremlin, with great red-brick walls and idyllic churches that take you back to the past. A visit to the famous Pastila Museum is a must, where you can find out about the origins of this traditional Russian apple candy and sample its many delicious varieties. Picturesque riverside parks in the town are great for gentle strolls, and market stalls and cafes provide local favourites like honey cakes and hearty street food.
How To Reach: 2 h suburban train from Kazansky Station
Main Attractions: Kolomna Kremlin, Pastila Museum, riverside trails
Entry Fee: ₽200 / ₹220 (kremlin), ₽150 / ₹165 (Pastila Museum)
4. Vladimir
Photo: Alex Zelenko / Wikimedia Commons
East of Moscow lies Vladimir, one of Russia’s oldest cities and a treasure of the Golden Ring, making it one of the top places to see near Moscow. It is renowned for its beautiful white-stone medieval architecture, particularly the Golden Gate, and the UNESCO-listed Assumption and Demetrius Cathedrals. These pieces of art convey the grandeur of pre-Mongol Rus and boast of intricate carvings, medieval frescoes, and kingly domes. Vladimir’s diminutive city centre makes it ideal for a half-day tour, offering an easy walking tour of centuries-old history. In addition to architectural wonders, the city offers quaint cafes, handicraft centres, and stunning views of the River Klyazma.
How To Reach: 2 h train from Leningradsky or Kursky stations
Main Attractions: Golden Gate, Assumption Cathedral, Church of St. Demetrius
Entry Fee: ₽400 / ₹440
5. Zvenigorod
Photo: karel291 / Wikimedia Commons
Zvenigorod, a mere 50 km west of Moscow, is a peaceful and cosmopolitan town that perfectly blends history and landscape. Its crowning glory is the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, containing the breathtakingly well-preserved Dormition Cathedral adorned by frescoes created by master icon painter Andrei Rublev. The serene interiors and holy imagery of the cathedral attract both pilgrims and history enthusiasts. Apart from its spiritual heritage, Zvenigorod receives tourists to enjoy scenic forest trails, tranquil river banks along the Moskva River, and warm local restaurants. Whether you’re drawn to ancient Russian architecture or simply want a relaxing escape from Moscow’s rush, Zvenigorod provides a memorable day trip.
How To Reach: Suburban train from Belorussky + short bus
Main Attractions: Dormition Cathedral, frescoes, monastery grounds
Entry Fee: ₽250 / ₹280 (Cathedral), ₽200 / ₹220 (Monastery)
6. Arkhangelskoye Estate
Photo: Alexxx1979 / Wikimedia Commons
Situated just beyond Moscow, Arkhangelskoye Estate is an 18th-century noble mansion that combines classical architecture, landscaped elegance, and cultural heritage, making it one of the finest places to visit near Moscow. A former residence of the Yusupov family, the estate is famous for its grand neoclassical palace, luxurious interiors, and broad sculpture-lined gardens. One can walk along perfectly manicured lawns, gaze at fountains and marble statues, and venture into luxurious rooms lined with antique furniture, fine arts, and historical relics. The estate boasts a colonnaded theatre, a beautiful church, and views of the Moskva River. Perfect for art, history, and architecture lovers.
How To Reach: Bus/minibus from Tushinskaya metro
Main Attractions: Palace, sculptures, landscaped gardens
Entry Fee: ~₽500 / ₹550
7. Kubinka Tank Museum
Photo: MBH / Wikimedia Commons
Approximately 70 km west of Moscow, the Kubinka Tank Museum, now part of the enormous Patriot Park, which is a sight to behold for military history enthusiasts and curious travellers alike. One of the world’s best museums, it boasts one of the largest and most diverse collections of tanks, armoured vehicles, and weaponry from all over the globe. From the German Tiger and Soviet T-34 tanks to odd prototypes and Cold War relics, every display carries a tale of engineering, war, and innovation. Military history buffs or someone who is simply intrigued by large machines, the Kubinka Tank Museum provides an informative and insightful look at armoured warfare during the 20th and 21st centuries.
How To Reach: Suburban train from Belorussky + bus or taxi
Main Attractions: Tanks, armoured cars, Patriot Park shows
Entry Fee: ₽400 / ₹500
8. Borodino Battlefield
Photo: Tara-mae Miller / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Located west of Moscow, Borodino is a battlefield that witnessed one of the most crucial battles of the Napoleonic Wars, which is the Battle of Borodino in 1812. The historic battle between Napoleon’s Grand Army and Russian troops had significant implications for the course of European history and is now commemorated at the Borodino Military-Historical Museum-Reserve. Visitors are able to stroll past a massive outdoor battlefield covered in monuments, memorial crosses, and genuine fortifications, and a central museum featuring weapons, uniforms, maps, and personal artefacts of the war. Borodino lends itself to an afternoon outing that connects heritage, remembrance, and narrative through preserved landscapes.
How To Reach: Train from Belorussky to Mozhaysk + short bus
Main Attractions: Memorial obelisk, Borodino Museum‑Reserve
Entry Fee: ₽350 / ₹400
9. Yasnaya Polyana
Photo: Пресс-центр Правительства Тульской области / Wikimedia Commons
Yasnaya Polyana is one of the most meaningful tourist attractions near Moscow, which is the beloved former estate of the great Russian author Leo Tolstoy. This tranquil retreat, replete with orchards, forests, and emerald meadows, offers an intimate glimpse into the author’s life and work. Visitors can tour Tolstoy’s house as it was left, his original furniture, handwritten writing, and personal belongings intact, offering a vivid impression of connection to the past. The grounds include his simple forest burial site, which represents his humility and love of nature. Yasnaya Polyana is not a museum; it’s a spiritual and cultural retreat where Tolstoy wrote his masterpieces and lived out the principles he taught.
How To Reach: Train to Tula + bus
Main Attractions: Tolstoy’s house, grave, grounds of his estate
Entry Fee: ₽400 / ₹500
10. Pereslavl‑Zalessky
Photo: AlixSaz / Wikimedia Commons
Pereslavl-Zalessky, northeast of the capital, stands out among the most charming attractions near Moscow. Known for its rich past, picturesque landscape, and relaxed ambiance, the town represents a perfect blend of culture and nature. One can see centuries-old monasteries, like the grand Goritsky Monastery and the 12th-century Transfiguration Cathedral. The lake itself is ideal for sailing, fishing, and water activities. The surrounding national park provides hiking trails and bird-watching, attracting nature lovers to their favourite haunt. With peaceful lakeshore landscapes, picturesque old streets, and a strong sense of heritage, Pereslavl-Zalessky is a great and satisfying day trip from Moscow.
How To Reach: Train + local transport
Main Attractions: Church of St. Cyril, Trinity Cathedral, lake activities
Entry Fee: ₽300 / ₹330
Palaces, monasteries, battlefields, and forests near Moscow reveal Russia’s rich history, shaped by tsars, saints, and poets. Explore the Golden Ring towns, serene lakes, and famous literary homes that offer deep cultural experiences and beautiful natural scenery. These peaceful retreats provide a unique blend of heritage and nature. Whether you seek history, culture, or relaxation, these places to visit near Moscow make for memorable journeys. Plan your trip today with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Юрий Баринов / Unsplash
