Travel around Moscow with Bobby
Day 1From Red Square to the Colors of St. Basil's
Touching down in Moscow, I immediately felt the electric buzz of this historic city. My day began at Red Square, Russia’s most iconic landmark. Standing between the grandeur of the Kremlin and the vibrant, candy-colored domes of St. Basil’s Cathedral was a surreal experience. While I had seen countless photos, nothing compares to witnessing their scale and detail in person. After soaking in the atmosphere, I ventured into the Kremlin to explore its palaces and churches, immersing myself in the layers of Russian history.
For lunch, I visited GUM, Moscow’s renowned shopping mall, which felt more like an architectural wonder than a retail space. I enjoyed a plate of pelmeni, Russia’s beloved dumplings, paired with kvass, a unique local fermented drink, as I watched the bustling crowds pass by. Following my meal, I strolled along the Moskva River, taking in the serene views of the city’s evolving skyline and savoring the crisp air.
As evening approached, I returned to my accommodation at the Ararat Park Hyatt, a luxurious hotel perfectly situated in the heart of the city. The stay offered more than just comfort—it provided breathtaking views of Moscow that made me appreciate the city’s beauty even more. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day filled with exploration and discovery.
Take your time at Red Square—it's worth every minute. And if you're up for a splurge, the GUM offers both fine dining and great street food experiences.
Day 2A Journey Through Soviet Splendor and Metro Marvels
Today was all about immersing myself in Moscow’s Soviet heritage and admiring its architectural gems. My first stop was Lenin’s Mausoleum, where the embalmed body of the Soviet leader still attracts visitors. It felt eerie but captivating, offering a haunting glimpse into a pivotal chapter of history. Afterward, I made my way to the State Historical Museum, where exhibits span from prehistoric artifacts to the modern Russian era, providing a comprehensive journey through time.
The highlight of the day, however, was the Moscow Metro. Each station resembles a palace, with chandeliers, marble pillars, and intricate mosaics adorning the platforms. Riding the metro felt like traveling through an underground museum, and stations like Komsomolskaya and Mayakovskaya stood out as masterpieces of design. What could have been a routine commute became one of the most memorable experiences of the trip.
For dinner, I dined at Café Pushkin, a charming restaurant recreating the ambiance of a 19th-century aristocratic home. The star of the evening was their beef stroganoff—rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. It was the perfect way to warm up and unwind after a day spent surrounded by cold marble and echoes of Soviet history.
The beef stroganoff at Café Pushkin was rich, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. It felt like stepping into a different era with the restaurant’s aristocratic setting. A truly classic Russian meal in a charming environment.
Food
Another peaceful night at the Ararat Park Hyatt, with its fantastic location continuing to be a huge advantage. The breakfast selection was impressive, with both local and international options available.
Accomodation
Exploring the metro stations was like visiting underground palaces—each station was a work of art. The intricate details in the architecture made even a simple metro ride feel grand. A perfect mix of functionality and art.
Activity
Don’t underestimate the Moscow Metro—it’s not just a way to get around, it’s an attraction in itself. Be sure to plan extra time to stop and admire the stations.
Day 3Art, Culture, and a Taste of Russian Nightlife
Today was all about immersing myself in Moscow’s vibrant art and culture. I began at the Tretyakov Gallery, which houses the finest collection of Russian art in the world. Masterpieces by renowned painters like Ilya Repin and Ivan Aivazovsky stood out, each piece offering a glimpse into the heart of Russian history and everyday life. Wandering through the gallery’s halls was both inspiring and thought-provoking, making it easy to lose track of time.
After the gallery, I headed to the iconic Bolshoi Theatre for a guided tour. Although I didn’t get to see a live performance, stepping into such a historic venue was an experience in itself. The theatre’s grandeur and rich legacy were palpable, offering a sense of the cultural importance it holds in Russian performing arts.
As night fell, I decided to explore Moscow’s nightlife at Propaganda, one of the city’s trendiest clubs. The atmosphere was electric, with house music setting the tone for an energetic crowd that danced well into the night. For anyone looking to experience Moscow’s lively nightlife scene, Propaganda is a must-visit.
Propaganda’s menu offered a wide variety of dishes, with great local options. I had a traditional blini (Russian pancakes), which were light and satisfying. The atmosphere was lively, matching the excitement of the nightclub scene.
Food
The service remained impeccable, and the location continued to be a highlight. The beds were incredibly comfortable, and the hotel’s rooftop bar offered stunning nighttime views of Moscow.
Accomodation
The Tretyakov Gallery was filled with masterpieces of Russian art, offering deep insight into the country's culture. The tour of the Bolshoi Theatre gave a glimpse of its historical significance, even without attending a performance. Both places were cultural highlights.
Activity
If you love art, block out a few hours for the Tretyakov Gallery. And when it comes to nightlife, Moscow knows how to party—Propaganda offers a good mix of locals and tourists for a great night out.
Day 4Green Spaces and the Heart of Moscow’s Modern Soul
For my final day in Moscow, I decided to slow down and savor the city’s more relaxed side. I began with a visit to Gorky Park, the city’s beloved green space. The weather was perfect, and the park buzzed with life—locals cycling, rollerblading, and lounging by the ponds. I rented a bike and cruised along the scenic trails, enjoying the fresh air and catching glimpses of Moscow’s skyline in the distance.
In the afternoon, I explored the more modern face of Moscow with a visit to Zaryadye Park, a contemporary urban space near Red Square. The park’s standout feature is its floating bridge, which offers breathtaking views over the Moskva River and the cityscape. It was the perfect spot to reflect on my journey, blending old and new Moscow in one panoramic view.
For my final meal, I dined at White Rabbit, a rooftop restaurant known for its spectacular views and innovative cuisine. I opted for the borscht, which was unlike any I’ve had before—rich, hearty, and paired with dark Russian bread. It was a fitting end to my time in Moscow, combining tradition with a touch of modern elegance.
White Rabbit’s take on borscht was an elevated experience—rich in flavor and beautifully presented. The rooftop view enhanced the overall dining atmosphere, making this the perfect final meal in Moscow.
Food
My final night at the hotel was just as luxurious as the previous ones. The comfort, amenities, and prime location continued to make it a standout choice. It’s a place I’d happily return to.
Accomodation
Gorky Park was a serene escape from the city’s hustle, with plenty of green space to relax and unwind. Zaryadye Park’s floating bridge provided stunning views of the Moskva River and the cityscape. Both parks were excellent spots to experience Moscow’s modern side.
Activity
If you’re craving some green space and relaxation, Gorky Park is perfect for unwinding. And for a memorable meal with unbeatable views, White Rabbit is worth every penny.
Summary of My Trip
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Moscow is a city that offers a deep and immersive experience, blending rich history with modern vibrancy. From its awe-inspiring architecture and iconic attractions to its dynamic culture, this city left a lasting impression on me. Whether you're navigating its intricate metro system or sampling the local cuisine, Moscow feels like a place where every corner has something new to discover. Here’s my breakdown of how I’d rate the city based on my experience:
The pelmeni were delicious, offering a perfect introduction to Russian comfort food. The kvass was an interesting experience, with its unique fermented flavor adding a local twist to the meal. GUM’s atmosphere made it feel like a high-end experience despite being street food.
Food
This luxurious hotel exceeded expectations, offering incredible views of the city and an excellent location near Red Square. The rooms were spacious, modern, and comfortable, making it a perfect retreat after a day of exploration. The service was top-notch, adding to the experience.
Accomodation
The Kremlin is a treasure trove of history, and St. Basil's Cathedral's vibrant colors made it unforgettable. Walking through these iconic places felt surreal, with so much to absorb at every turn. The magnitude of history here is overwhelming and awe-inspiring.
Activity