One of the great cities of the world, Moscow is a fantastic place to visit. If you’re planning a trip there, then check out our guide for some tips of what to see. One absolute must-see has to be the Kremlin. The word roughly translates as ‘fortress’ in English (and it used to be one) and it’s now the center of Russian government. There’s loads to see, from government buildings to cathedrals, an armory, museums and a palace. Go on a guided tour to make the most of the experience.

Another absolute must-see is the famous Red Square, named in the seventeenth century after an old Russian word for ‘beautiful’. To see a little piece of history, check out the rebuilt Resurrection Gate, which had stood at the entrance to the square for hundreds of years before Stalin ordered it demolished in the Cold War. Also make time to visit the colorful St Basil’s Cathedral. A Russian masterpiece, it was built in the sixteenth century on the decree of Ivan the Terrible.

If you’re after a bit of culture, then somewhere you really have to go is the Bolshoi Theater. Home to the world-famous ballet, this is Russia’s largest and most famous theater. The five-tiered auditorium is decorated in the nineteenth century neoclassic Russian style and has been recently renovated, so it’s well worth a visit. Try and find time to squeeze in a show, but be careful buying tickets as foreigners are often charged more than locals if you purchase from a kiosk so it’s advisable to book online beforehand.

For a brilliant tourist experience, head to the Old Arbat. This gives you the chance to see a piece of Russian history up close, and the street was once home to many writers, painters, composers and artists. For example, the former home of Pushkin, a celebrated Russian writer, is now a museum that’s well worth a visit. This cultural center is a brilliant place to pick up some souvenirs or art and visit some fantastic cafes in a tourist hub that still keeps its old charm.

Another top cultural location is the Novodevichy Convent, which translates as ‘New Maidens Convent’. It was established in 1524 and now stands as a who’s who in Russian history – the sister of Peter the Great, the composer Shostakovich and the writer Chekhov are all buried there, among others. The cathedral, convent and cemetery are all open to visitors and it’s located in a beautiful park setting, meaning that there’s something for everyone at this absolutely fantastic Moscow attraction. It’s definitely worth a visit.

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