Past meets future on Moscow’s streets
Book flights to Moscow and lose yourself in the most captivating and enigmatic of all European capitals.
Moscow is a cultural gem, a city steeped in history and one that has taken centre stage in world events throughout the centuries.
Stand in Red Square, the city’s heart, to soak up both the atmosphere and the views. This cobblestone square is home to the Kremlin – the seat of tsars and politicians since the 15th century.
Don’t miss the iconic St Basil’s Cathedral, whose colourful onion domes – symbolic of the burning candles within – are one of the defining images of Russia.
Find history on every street, from the Imperial Age to Bolshevik rule. Visit Lenin’s Mausoleum, where the former Soviet leader’s body is famously displayed. Enjoy some culture at the famous Bolshoi Theatre, where you can see some of the world’s best ballet dancers perform.
Book flight tickets to Moscow with Etihad Airways and experience the best of the Russian capital.
Reasons to visit Moscow
Moscow’s marvellous museums
Moscow is the place to be if you want to learn more about Russia’s engrossing, and sometimes turbulent, past. The absolute must-see is the Kremlin, home to thousands of treasures from Russia’s history, including a fantastic armoury with traditional royal armour, swords and cannons.
For a glimpse into more recent events, head to the Bunker 42 Cold War Museum, an underground Cold War-era bunker. If art is more your thing, head to the State Tretyakov Gallery, with its vast collection of pre-Soviet fine art or the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts, which has a pan-European collection.
Russian culinary delights
Book Moscow flights and dive into the city’s food scene to enjoy traditional dishes and the best in contemporary Russian dining. In recent years, Moscow’s cuisine has become increasingly innovative with chefs seeking out the freshest local ingredients and reinventing Russian classics for the modern palate.
Sample borscht soup, which has origins in Ukraine, and look out for blinis – traditional pancakes served either with fruit and cream, or meat and cheese. For excellent street food and international flavours, head to Danilovsky Market, where you’ll find stalls serving treats from around the world.
Relax in Gorky Park
Gorky Park, alongside the Moskva River, is where the locals go when they want some fresh air and relaxation. It was built in 1928 by the Soviet Government as a place for the people of Moscow to socialise.
Once home to fairground rides and a mass of pavement cafes, in 2011 the park was revamped. New areas were created for sports including beach volleyball, petanque and yoga. In summer, there’s an open-air cinema, while in winter you can lace up your skates on the outdoor ice rink. You can even skate around the park, as the paths are flooded and frozen in winter.
Flying to Moscow: FAQs
How long should I spend in Moscow?
Moscow is a vast city with so much to experience. To truly see the city, you should set aside around five days. Consider making Moscow the first stop on a more extensive Russian adventure and spend a few weeks exploring this huge and diverse nation.
Which shops should I visit in Moscow?
For fashion and luxury goods, head to the luxury malls near Red Square. You can buy traditional Russian handicrafts and antiques from Moscow’s markets. Look out for matryoshka dolls, the famous colourfully painted wooden dolls that stack inside each other.
What should I wear in Moscow?
In winter, you will need a thick, long coat, boots suitable for snow, a hat and gloves. There is usually at least some snow on the ground from late October to March.
What's the currency in Moscow?
Like the rest of Russia, Moscow uses the ruble (RUB). You’ll be able to exchange your money for rubles at most banks and currency exchange bureaus.