5 day trips for couples

19 Romantic Weekend Getaways for Couples to Enjoy Together Time

Including inexpensive packages, relaxing destinations and the best places to celebrate an anniversary.

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Even the best relationships could use a little refresh once in a while. If you and your significant other have settled into a routine of monotonous dinner dates, shake things up with a romantic getaway. While vacations can take months of planning and saving, a long weekend escape can be fun, affordable and have a big dose of what almost every relationship needs more of—spontaneity! To help you get away as soon as you can put in for PTO, we’ve compiled this list of romantic weekend getaways for couples.

Speaking of real-life romance, our team members and their significant others hand-picked many of these spots based on their recent experiences criss-crossing the country for travel research and the Good Housekeeping Family Travel Awards.

Stephanie Inn, Cannon Beach, Oregon

Pacific Northwest peeps, put this romantic spot on your road-trip radar. By driving just four hours from Seattle or 90 minutes from Portland, you'll be at the Stephanie Inn , a serene, kid-free beachfront retreat. Help yourself to fresh-baked cookies in the lobby and get cozy in your room, which may even have a killer view of the famed Haystack Rock. "A moody beach, fantastic food—which includes a free wine & beer gathering—and amazing service made this stay one of our favorite trips ever," said a Good Housekeeping team member who visited with her spouse.

The Coeur d'Alene Golf & Spa Resort, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Located in the northern part of the state, Coeur d’Alene is filled with lush forests and breathtaking lake views. "It's an absolutely stunning setting for a romantic getaway," raved a Good Housekeeping team member who visited last year with her husband. "We enjoyed the tranquility of the beautiful trees, lake setting and the downtown area with shops, bars and restaurants." She stayed in a Lake Tower room at The Coeur d'Alene Golf & Spa Resort , which offers amazing views, private balconies and a gas-burning fireplace. If you're looking for ambience and great food, stop by Beverly’s, which serves up five-star cuisine.

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Sandals Royal Curaçao, Santa Barbara, Curaçao

One of our editors was invited to spend three days at the recently-opened resort. It's all-inclusive and adults only, so it's perfect for couples looking to get away from it all. Rooms start at $317, per person, per night. The resort has the luxe Sandals accommodations you're used to, but you'll particularly love all the romantic touches at this location, like the heart-shaped beach bungalow you see here, bicycles you can use to tour the 3,000-acre property, al fresco dining at 11 restaurants and the incredible views that only Curaçao can offer. What's more, your meals aren't limited to what they have on property — this is the first time the company has offered off-site dining, so you can enjoy local cuisine from restaurants around the island. Our editor went to Sal the Kitchen, and had the most amazing time (the whole outdoor space was covered in string lights and greenery).

Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows, Santa Monica, California

Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the five-acre Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows near Santa Monica State Beach offers something that's hard to come by in the LA area—privacy. The property's 1930s-style bungalows boast a private entrance, private terraces, large soaking tubs and awesome views of the sunset. You can even book an intimate sushi experience at the on-site restaurant Soko. When you do feel like mingling, the resort's activities include a chef-led tour of the Santa Monica Farmers' Market and poolside movies.

The Parkside Hotel & Spa, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

Steeped in culture and history, Victoria boasts one of the best waterfront walkways anywhere. "Walking around the Victoria waterfront at night is lovely," said a Good Housekeeping team member, who visited the city with her husband. "Many of the historic buildings are lit up, and water taxis are at the ready to take you to any waterfront restaurant." She stayed nearby at The Parkside Hotel & Spa , which features a rooftop garden, indoor koi pond and kitchens or kitchenettes in every room. The cherry on top: The hotel is carbon neutral.

Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort Spa & Casino, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

If an island vacation sounds like music to your ears, look no further than the enchanting all-inclusive Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort, Spa & Casino . Memorable adventures like scuba diving and sailing are included in the price. Plus, the property offers an adult-only section, featuring coastal chic rooms including some with swim-up pools and hot tubs. December to April is the best time to visit the DR, so plan accordingly.

Windjammer Landing Resort & Residencies, Castries, St. Lucia

A bucket list-worthy destination for couples, St. Lucia's thermal baths, nature activities and mountain vistas create the perfect backdrop for romance. A Good Housekeeping tester and her boyfriend stayed at the all-inclusive Windjammer Landing Resort & Residencies. "It's incredibly relaxing from the minute you arrive at the resort and are greeted with a rum punch," she said. You can be as active as you want: Our tester noted that couples can spend the entire day on the beach, work up a sweat playing tennis or take a hike that offers incredible views of the island. She thinks the on-site spa is a must-do. "I highly recommend the couples' massage and body scrubs," she said, adding, "the private villas have rooftop whirlpools where you can relax in private surrounded by ocean views." What's more romantic than that?

Omni Homestead Resort, Hot Springs, Virginia

After undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation, the historic Omni Homestead Resort is "ideal for a couples’ getaway —isolated and romantic with the gorgeous mountains and landscapes, high-end amenities and activities for different interests," said one Good Housekeeping tester of their stay. An activity not to miss: Soaking in the warm springs pools, which have special adult-only hours.

Rosewood Sand Hill, Menlo Park, California

Lovers on the West Coast can recharge on the luxurious grounds of the Rosewood Sand Hill , located near the Santa Cruz Mountains. Its Weekend Escape Package, which runs until March 31, consists of late check-out, use of Lucid Air Motors cars and a $100 daily resort credit. Other sweet features of the resort include its signature restaurant, Madera, which serves American cuisine and offers romantic views of the mountains, and the tranquil Sense Spa.

The Standard Spa, Miami Beach, Florida

A wellness hotel just off South Beach, The Standard Spa, Miami Beach focuses on rejuvenation. Couples can enjoy The Gardens, which feature swings and a fire pit, or take advantage of the main pool, infinity pool, arctic plunge pool, Roman waterfall hot tub and mud baths.

Grand Velas, Los Cabos, Mexico

Love is in the air at this all-inclusive, adults-only boutique hotel in Mexico. With amazing amenities and romantic experiences , including curated options of an intimate garden picnic or beach picnic or romantic dinner on the beach, this resort is a couple’s dream. It's a perfect splurge to celebrate a milestone birthday or anniversary.

Salamander Resort, Middleburg, Virginia

With a year-around Season of Romance package, there's never a bad time to visit Salamander Middleburg with your boo. The package, which requires a stay of two nights or more, includes $100 nightly resort credit, welcome bottle of sparkling wine and confection courtesy of the resort’s executive pastry chef. Put your credit toward couples' massages, romantic dinners, a charming trail ride on horseback—or all three.

Snowbird Mountain Lodge, Robbinsville, North Carolina

Without a doubt, Snowbird Mountain Lodge is for lovebirds. Fire pits, front-porch rocking chairs and picnic lunches make this property near the Tennessee border Cupid's pick for couples, especially in the spring and fall. Plus, the lodge includes all meals in your stay, so you'll know the price of your getaway upfront.

Edgewood Tahoe Resort, Stateline, Nevada

Just off of Lake Tahoe sits Edgewood Tahoe Resort —an ideal wintry getaway for couples. You and your sweetie can either hit the slopes, lounge at the spa or combine the two with unique Après Ski Spa Offerings , including the Après Mountain Recovery Massage and Boots Off Recovery Package for worn out feet and legs. If you book a Villa Suite before March 30, you'll score a private snowshoe tour, plus complimentary ice skating, s’mores at the fire pit and Ski Butler service.

Herrington Inn & Spa, Geneva, Illinois

Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the Windy City? Whisk yourself and your partner just an hour away from Chicago to a room with a fireplace and whirlpool at the riverfront Herrington Inn & Spa . Its couples' getaway package, offered year-around, includes therapeutic massages and a Zen Shower basket with body wash, loofah, walnut body scrub and more. You can even add on rose-petal turndown service or sparkling wine and strawberries.

Inn At Perry Cabin, St. Michaels, Maryland

A quick trip to Maryland’s Eastern Shore (less than 2 hours from DC) is more than worth it when you stay at Inn At Perry Cabin . Not only is the hotel located just off of the serene shore of the Miles River, but it's also home to 26 acres of lush flower gardens you can stroll through at your leisure. Visit during the spring or summer to get the most out of the inn's offerings.

Hotel Valley Ho, Scottsdale, Arizona

Expectant parents will welcome a weekend escape at Hotel Valley Ho . The hotel offers a special package that includes a Kodak Printomatic camera to document every moment, an adorable cactus rattle for the little bun in the oven and a 60-minute Mom-to-Be Massage at VH Spa for Vitality + Health. Outside the hotel, you can dine and shop at the Scottsdale Waterfront and stroll around at the Desert Botanical Garden.

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Mirbeau Inn & Spa Skaneateles, Skaneateles, New York

If you can't swing a trip to France, Mirbeau Inn & Spa Skaneateles may be the next best thing. Located in the Finger Lakes region, a few hours from New York City, this charming retreat oozes French country vibes—its outdoor space, in particular, may remind you of Monet's famed painting of water lilies. The spa features a rejuvenating resting area with a heated foot pool, herbal infused sauna and a heated whirlpool with a private bar, all of which are included with the price of your stay.

Woodcliff Hotel & Spa, Fairport, New York

Spacious themed suites are a big draw at Woodcliff Hotel & Spa in upstate New York, near Rochester. Couples can select from art deco, Victorian, Southwestern and more to match their favorite decor style. A Winter Romance Package , available through March 31, includes $150 dinner or spa credit, complimentary breakfast, sparkling wine and chocolate-covered strawberries. The hotel is near 70 acres of hiking trails so don't forget to pack your boots.

Cameron (she/her) is a staff writer for Good Housekeeping , where she covers everything from holidays to food. She is a graduate of Syracuse University, where she received a B.A. in magazine journalism. In her spare-time she can be found scrolling TikTok for the latest cleaning hacks and restaurant openings, binge-watching seasons of Project Runway or online shopping.

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32 Romantic Weekend Getaways to Book on a Budget

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But booking a trip on a budget is hard, especially nowadays. That’s why we tapped three travel experts for some genius cost-cutting tips. Below, Amanda Williams , Oneika Raymond , and Lee Abbamonte share romantic destinations that won’t break the bank while still packing a ton of excitement. They also recommend downloading travel apps like HotelTonight and Hopper , which crawl the web to find the cheapest fares on the internet.

So, what are you waiting for? Start adding these 30+ trip ideas to your travel bucket list and get ready for your next rom-com-worthy vacation. (P.S.: Don’t forget to get these travel essentials , weekender bags , and trip-friendly outfits .)

New Orleans

The Big Easy just might be the perfect couples getaway, with romantic B&Bs, rousing nightlife, delicious restaurants , and an endless array of sights. Check into the classic French Quarter hotel Bourbon Orleans , with rooms from $144 per night, before grabbing a bite at Café Beignet and a drink at The Sazerac Bar at the Hotel Roosevelt. Other highlights include Preservation Hall , the African lion habitat at the Audubon Zoo , and the iconic music club The Spotted Cat . A must is the Sazerac House , a cocktail museum with spirit tastings devoted to the iconic drink.

Stowe, Vermont

In the mood to ski? Known to many as the ski capital of the East , Stowe is the perfect place to go with your partner to enjoy a romantic weekend on the slopes. Located right at the bottom of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, Stowe is a delightful small town that invites visitors to escape into the beautiful surrounding nature. It is famous for its ski trails but also offers other activities you can enjoy, such as ice skating​​ in Spruce Peak Village or a private dinner with a view. If you want to spend your days skiing down iconic trails while cuddling by a warm fire at night, Stowe is your best choice. The Golden Eagle Resort has rates as low as $170 for rooms right at the foot of the slopes.

Full of soul and incredible music, Memphis truly is for lovers. The historic South Main Arts District’s Central Station Hotel features an endlessly cool vibe and musical-themed artwork befitting the area’s blues legacy. Nearby, check out the Memphis Blues Hall of Fame , the National Civil Rights Museum , and the Memphis Rock ’N’ Soul Museum to get a taste of the birthplace of rock ’n’ roll. Also, don’t miss Sun Studio , where you'll get a personalized tour and can even snap a picture with the very microphone Elvis used to record his first album. And, of course, no visit to Memphis is complete without a trip to Graceland to see the King’s home. Then, snuggle up with a cocktail and truffle fries at Mollie Fontaine , an eclectic Victorian mansion turned bar.

Mexico City

Mexico City is for lovers. Why, you ask? The colonial architecture and sprawling parks are enough to help rekindle the flames. Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum for a dose of art or catch the ballet at the Palacio de Bellas Artes . A gondola-like boat ride at Xochimilco makes for a perfect date. The best part is that the current exchange rate of U.S. dollars to pesos makes it possible for you to splurge on four-star hotels, like the mind-blowingly gorgeous Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico , for low costs. Use the extra cash for dinner at Limosneros , where diving into the Wagyu tacos is recommended. And of course, tequila and mezcal abound at some of the most charming cocktail lounges, including Casa Franca , where you’ll hear live jazz nightly.

Steeped in romance, Barcelona is easily one of Europe’s most enchanting cities for couples—and with some cheap flights options from the East Coast, often affordable, too. Just off the Passeig de Gràcia thoroughfare, Hotel America Barcelona offers sleek and stylish rooms from $70, with a rooftop terrace boasting city views. Artistic influences reign: Check out the colorful, 42-acre Gaudí-designed Park Güell , including the Gaudí House Museum , as well as the famed La Sagrada Família church , begun by Gaudí in 1882 and still under construction. With a delicious food culture focused on small and shareable bites, it’s easy to nosh your way through Barcelona. Try Escairón for inexpensive Galician cuisine, Lluritu for seafood, and Catalan classics at La Cova Fumada .

Palm Springs

Beloved by Angelenos as a relaxing retreat and perfect place to decompress together, an increasing number of flights to Palm Springs are available (from all over the country) for low prices. Once there, try the elegant 1930s Spanish Revival boutique Andreas Hotel and Spa (there are Jacuzzi tubs, rain showers, and a pool). The city is synonymous with midcentury modern architecture, which is easy to enjoy in the Uptown Design District , or take in contemporary paintings and sculpture at the Palm Springs Art Museum . Other favorites include the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway , shopping till you drop at the Cabazon Outlets , or hiking to a waterfall at Tahquitz Canyon (with a stop at the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum ). Eat at stylish Birba for farm-to-table food and killer pizza or weekend brunch.

Lee Abbamonte, who has traveled to every country in the world, lists this stunning island off the coast of North Carolina for its resemblance to any tropical Caribbean destination. Enjoy the white sand and turquoise waters of Horseshoe Bay Beach and try the locally sourced seafood and crab cakes at Mad Hatters . Book a stay in the shoulder seasons (fall or spring) for lower prices.

Few countries on earth as are majestic as Iceland, which offers couples a bounty of natural beauty (northern lights!) and once-in-a-lifetime experiences (skinny-dipping in the Blue Lagoon, anybody?). Forty minutes outside Reykjavík, the geothermal-adjacent Frost & Fire hotel offers rooms from about $200, balcony views of Mt. Reykjafjall, plus hot springs, sauna, tubs, and an outdoor thermal pool. Must-dos an easy drive away include whale watching, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and the Strokkur geyser.

A getaway to one of America’s sexiest locales is always a good idea, and with inexpensive nonstop flights from every major city, Miami is easy to reach, too. Stay at Loews Miami Beach , located directly on the sand. Late February is an ideal time to go, with the South Beach Food and Wine Festival , while food hall Politan Row Miami provides a myriad of incredible dining options beloved by celebs like Jennifer Lopez.

Long considered one of Europe’s most romantic cities, Prague is not only cheaper than many European getaways but also offers lovers a great spot to reconnect over a long weekend. Enjoy affordable luxury at Augustine Hotel —a former 13th-century monastery now owned by Marriott. Take in sights like the views from Petřín Park or the famed Charles Bridge. Stroll along Vltava river or take a cruise and wander through the medieval Old Town—and, of course, no visit is complete without hanging a padlock on Lovers’ Bridge. Many airlines fly nonstop to Prague.

Colorado Springs

Sprawling lakeside resort The Broadmoor offers couples getaway rates from $250, as well as a massive complex with golf, tennis, a spa. For a meal that’s kind to the budget, try rustic Gold Rush-inspired Restaurant 1858 —with waterfall views. It’s no surprise that many of the area must-sees are outdoorsy or natural wonders, such as the magnificent Garden of the Gods red rock formations, Pikes Peak (which inspired the song “America the Beautiful”), and Seven Falls. Stop by the U.S. Air Force Academy for a tour and to see the stunning Cadet Chapel.

With flights from as little as $300 from the U.S., Bangkok can be not only surprisingly affordable to get to but can also provide a wonderfully romantic getaway for those with a few extra days and the willingness for adventure. Rates are available from around $100 at the riverfront Praya Palazzo , a secluded Thai-Italian Paladio-style hideaway accessible only via private barge. Must-visits during a quick trip include the former royal residence The Grand Palace , the iconic riverside Wat Arun Temple of Dawn (see it lit up at night to be really wowed), bar- and restaurant-packed Khao San Road, and the most sacred Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

This charming city is steeped in history. A weekend is just enough time to enjoy the thriving food scene , go for a long walk down the oak-lined Wormsloe Historic Site , or check out the historic downtown district on a horse-drawn carriage. For beach bums, nearby Tybee Island is ideal for a sunny day out. Amanda Williams recommends staying at quaint boutique hotels like the brick-lined River Street Inn or the modern Hotel Indigo . And don’t sleep on the plant-based fare at Fox & Fig .

San Francisco

While hardly synonymous with budget, there’s no denying that San Francisco is one of the most beautiful (not to mention romantic) cities in America. Luckily, it is possible to enjoy a weekend in the City by the Bay without breaking the bank: Stay just over the bridge in Marin County at waterfront The Gables Inn Sausalito . With rooms from $190, it provides stunning city views and offers a romance package, including a dozen red roses and a bottle of sparkling wine. Take a cable car around the city, soak up the views from the Presidio (and rediscover your inner kid at its Walt Disney Family Museum ), snap a 'Gram in front of the famous Painted Ladies townhouses, learn about chocolate-making and share a sundae at Ghirardelli , and end up in Chinatown for dinner at so-called Eataly of Chinatown food hall China Live .

Thanks to a myriad of cheap flight deals to London, it’s entirely possible to fly across the pond and enjoy a long weekend getaway. Stay at Z at Gloucester Place Hotel , which has rooms from around $100 per night, offers free wine and cheese, and is a short walk from the Baker St. and Marylebone tube stations. London is a wonderful walking city, making for a pleasant stroll through iconic neighborhoods like Chelsea, Mayfair, St. James, and Marylebone. Many of London’s best tourist sights are free, meanwhile, including the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, the Tate Modern, the British Museum, the National Gallery, and Hyde Park (perfect for an alfresco picnic).

Santa Barbara

With its miles of beaches, laid-back joie de vivre, and wine culture, it’s no wonder sun-soaked Santa Barbara is known as America’s Riviera. Check into the Cheshire Cat Inn —with rooms from about $250—a whimsical family-owned B&B with an Alice in Wonderland theme and walking distance from thoroughfare State Street. The city’s Funk Zone boasts more than 20 tasting rooms along the Urban Wine Trail (stop by Au Bon Climat and Margerum just up the road), as well as craft brews from spots like Figueroa Mountain Brewing Company . Harborview crab cakes and oysters at Brophy Bros followed by sunset at Montecito’s secluded Butterfly Beach are the perfect ways to cap off a day of romance.

Packed with history—not to mention secret nooks and crannies, cobblestone streets, and Instagrammable backgrounds—romantic Charleston is the perfect city for strolling hand-in-hand. Stay at the elegant Planters Inn , in a building dating from 1844 and with a courtyard garden (rooms from $239). Use it as a jumping-off point to explore sights like opulent 19th-century townhouse Nathaniel Russell House , the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and its stained-glass windows, and the elegant Southern mansions in the landmark Historic District and overlooking The Battery (including Rainbow Row ). There’s also a robust military history, with Fort Sumter and Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum , not to mention spooky ghost tours aplenty.

Niagara Falls

Make the trek up to New York’s iconic Niagara Falls and discover why the natural wonder was considered the honeymoon capital of the world. Stay at historic art deco boutique hotel The Giacomo , located only minutes from the waterfalls, with whirlpool baths and rooms from $136. The hotel is steps from Niagara Falls Culinary Institute , where couples can indulge their inner chefs together, with Oban Inn and special-occasion Revolving Dining Room at Skylon Tower popular for meals. The Maid of the Mist boat tour, visiting both American Falls and jaw-dropping Horseshoe Falls on the Canadian side, is a top attraction.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

The rich-in-history island has been slammed with natural disasters and—with tourism making up 10 percent of Puerto Rico’s GDP—is in need of tourism dollars as they continue rebuilding. As a result, San Juan could be an unexpected but wonderful couples’ escape. (Bonus: No passport necessary.) Check into the dreamy 18th-century boutique hotel The Gallery Inn in Old San Juan, with rates from $155 per night. Once settled, visit the 16th-century fort Viejo San Juan or 16th-century Castillo San Felipe del Morro. Take a peek at La Fortaleza, the walled compound where the governor lives, and don’t forget to visit San Juan Bautista cathedral, Puerto Rico’s oldest cathedral (and second oldest in the Americas.) Try Cafe El Punto for Puerto Rican and Creole food beloved by locals. While there, make sure to support local businesses, and consider volunteering with or donating to a group such as Para la Naturaleza .

Paso Robles, California

Equidistant from San Francisco and Los Angeles in California’s Central Coast, the charming wine village of Paso Robles is home to some of America’s best wines—not to mention a fun retreat for couples. Stay at luxurious The Piccolo Hotel , a boutique with rooms from $226, and make time for Paso’s best wineries, including Turley , Opolo , Adelaida , and Calcareous . For a sober retreat, take in the waters at Franklin Hot Springs and check out the Field of Light art installation by artist Bruce Munro, with 15 acres of colorful LED lights.

Maia Efrem, a New York-based writer, is now that much closer to Oprah! A graduate of Columbia University's Journalism School, she's a lover of all things pop-culture, Soviet, and Bruce Springsteen. 

Nadine Jolie Courtney is a lifestyle writer whose work has appeared in Town & Country , Robb Report , and Angeleno ; a graduate of Barnard College, her fourth book, All-American Muslim Girl , was named a Kirkus Best Book of 2019. She lives in Santa Monica, California, where she posts too many photos of her daughter on Instagram.

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• Moscow to Turin drive
• Moscow to Hamburg drive
• Moscow to Vilnius drive
• Moscow to Yaroslavl drive
• Moscow to Nizhny Novgorod drive
• Moscow to Kyiv drive
• Moscow to Tula drive
• Moscow to Bruges drive

Explore nearby places

• Likino-Dulevo
• Ivanteyevka
• Orekhovo-Zuevo
• Semyonovskoye
• Ivanovskoye
• Rumyantsevo
• Dzerzhinsky
• Sovkhoz Imeni Lenina
• Dolgoprudny

All related maps of Moscow

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• Map of Reutov
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• Map of Bronnitsy
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• Map of Semyonovskoye
• Map of Izmaylovo
• Map of Nikolskoye
• Map of Ivanovskoye
• Map of Marfino
• Map of Govorovo
• Map of Nagornoye
• Map of Mosrentgen
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• Map of Putilkovo
• Map of Razvilka
• Map of Khimki
• Map of Dzerzhinsky
• Map of Sovkhoz Imeni Lenina
• Map of Dolgoprudny

Moscow throughout the year

• Moscow in January
• Moscow in February
• Moscow in March
• Moscow in April
• Moscow in May
• Moscow in June
• Moscow in July
• Moscow in August
• Moscow in September
• Moscow in October
• Moscow in November
• Moscow in December

Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Moscow?

Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:

Day itineraries for nearby cities

• 5-Day Mytishchi Itinerary
• 5-Day Khimki Itinerary

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27 Best Vacation Spots for Every Type of Couple

The best vacation spots for couples are steeped in timeless romance. Whether it’s a cruise down the Nile or a saunter through sultry Buenos Aires, some places have simply mastered the art of seduction.   

Still, no vacation is one size fits all, and while some couples want to escape to the golden sands of the Caribbean, other people’s idea of romance might look like a getaway to South Africa’s wine country, or seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland.

So, how to  plan a romantic getaway tailor-made for two? “My favorite piece of advice is to leave room for spontaneity,” says luxury travel advisor Amina Dearmon, the founder and owner of  Perspectives Travel . “Our lives are already so over-scheduled, it’s important to have the freedom to do absolutely nothing and enjoy each other’s company, no matter which destination you choose.”  

For  domestic trips , she loves the wellness-focused resorts in Arizona like  Canyon Ranch Tucson  and the soon-to-reopen  Mii Amo . As for international destinations, she recommends the Caribbean islands of Anguilla, Dominica, and St. Lucia, as well as Venice, Italy. And if you’re going to splurge, Dearmon suggests balling out on your  accommodations (“It’s your home away from home”) and opting for extras like VIP meet and greets at the airport (“It’s a service that makes up a small percentage of your total trip cost, but it can make the biggest difference in your travel day.”).

To get a jumpstart on your planning, here are the 27 best vacation spots for couples, whether you crave a blissed-out spa getaway, a culinary vacation, or an adventure-packed itinerary. 

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Poolside at Cap Juluca, a Belmond Hotel, Anguilla

Ballotine de côte de veau au foie gras, mousseline de carotte des sables at La Co(o)orniche, Pyla-Sur-Mer

For stretching out on the sand

Cap Juluca, a Belmond Hotel, Anguilla

For beach bliss, cookbook author and “Top Chef” judge Gail Simmons recommends a romantic getaway to  Cap Juluca, a Belmond Hotel on Anguilla. “Cap Juluca’s beach is as pristine as it gets, with its long strip of powder-white sand, crystal clear water, and views of St. Maarten in the distance,” she says. “Plus, you never have to fight for a beach chair or show up super early, since there’s plenty of room and the staff always has an umbrella set up before you’ve even arrived.” When Simmons and her husband weren’t lounging on golden sands, they went paddleboarding, hit the tennis court, enjoyed massages at the spa, and even went on a snorkeling excursion. The highlight was all the quality time the pair spent together: “I loved how private and remote Cap Juluca felt,” says Simmons. “At times it felt like we were on our very own island.” 

La Co(o)orniche, Pyla-Sur-Mer

What could be more romantic than waking up to views of Europe’s biggest sand dune? At this Philippe Starck-designed  hotel in the seaside resort of Pyla-sur-Mer, couples enjoy panoramic views of Arcachon Bay and the mesmerizing Dune du Pilat from their beachy-chic guestrooms. Most visitors flock to the area to climb the magnificent dune, which rises 374 feet above sea level, but we won’t blame you for lazing on the sandy beach, breathing in the head-clearing scent of the pine forest.

Fernando De Noronha, Brazil

Brazil is spoiled for choice when it comes to beautiful beaches. But you’d be hard-pressed to find a place more blessed with natural beauty than Fernando de Noronho, a volcanic archipelago about 220 miles off the northeast coast of Brazil. Perhaps the dreamiest spot to spend the day with your significant other is Baia do Sancho, on the archipelago’s main island. The protected cove is the picture of earthly paradise, with forest-covered cliffs and azure waters home to colorful fish, dolphins, and sea turtles.  

Con Dao Archipelago, Vietnam

Looking for beachside seclusion? Skip Vietnam’s over-trammeled Phu Quoc and head to the isolated Con Dao archipelago instead. The remote islands are perfect for privacy-seekers: 83 percent of the archipelago is protected by the Con Dao National Park.  The most luxurious place to lay your head is the  Six Senses Con Dao , an eco-resort backed by the Lo Voi Mountains and located on a mile-long private beach. It’s worth peeling yourself away from your seaside villa for a guided hike along the coast to Dam Tre Bay, arguably the archipelago’s most photogenic beach, with forested hills and dramatic granite cliffs.

Tofino, Canada

For couples seeking rugged natural beauty and mist-shrouded coastal landscapes, it’s hard to top Tofino on Vancouver Island. The windswept town has no shortage of beaches primed for romance: Stroll hand in hand along the 10-mile Long Beach, enjoy a picnic with views of Clayoquot Sound at Tonquin Beach, or take a couple’s surf lesson at Cox Bay Beach. And while there are plenty of  beautiful Airbnbs available to rent, the oceanfront  Wickaninnish Inn —one of Canada’s most legendary hotels—epitomizes bucket-list romance. 

  Anse Source d’Argent Seychelles

There’s a reason Prince William and Kate Middleton honeymooned in the Seychelles. The Indian Ocean archipelago offers island romance par excellence, with luxurious resorts, off-the-grid adventures, and, of course, stunning beaches, the most famous being the Anse Source d’Argent on La Digue. It really doesn’t get more photogenic than this iconic stretch of sand, known for its shallow waters, imposing granite boulders, and swaying coconut palms. For a less-crowded—but no less picturesque option—hike three hours to Anse Marron, a remote beach on the southern tip of La Digue.  

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon, Iceland  

For spa treatments and meditative moments

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon, Iceland   

There are few destination spas as singular as this 62-suite  hotel , built into an 800-year-old lava field on the southwest side of Iceland’s famous lagoon. It’s an otherworldly place to spend a few days, kicking back in the Scandi-chic guestrooms, soaking in the thermal hot springs, and indulging in a seven-course chef’s tasting menu at the lagoon-level restaurant. You and your partner will feel weightless as you float in the mineral-rich waters, looking out at the surreal moss-fringed landscape. If you’re lucky, the Northern Lights may even dance across the sky.

One&Only Mandarina, Mexico

Author and interior designer  Athena Calderone fell head over heels for  One&Only Mandarina , a destination resort on Riviera Nayarit’s wild Pacific Coast. “The spa was an absolute dream—the entire experience was luxurious and elegant,” she says, referencing an all-natural Tata Harper facial that left her glowing. She also loved the treehouse accommodations and the resort’s intimate dining options, like the open-air Alma restaurant helmed by French-Mexican chef Olivier Deboise. “The property is the perfect respite for couples,” she says.

Six Senses Fort Barwara, Rajasthan  

Give your loved one the royal treatment at this 14 th -century fort turned 48-suite  hotel . Commanding a hilltop perch above Barwara Lake, the thoughtfully restored complex channels the glamor of a bygone era. Splurge on the Raja Man Singh Pool Suite, which features a pool and garden enclosed within a turret and views of the Chauth ka Barwara Mandir Temple and the Aravali hills. There are daily wellness activities like sunrise yoga and traditional  puja  ceremonies at sunset. But for the ultimate indulgence, retreat to the 30,000-square-foot spa for stress-relieving shirodhara treatments and cutting-edge biohacking therapies.

Troutbeck, New York

At this sophisticated  country manor in New York’s Hudson Valley, it’s all about communing with nature while enjoying luxe amenities (deep-soaking tubs, fireplaces, and Frette linens). Robust wellness programming rounds out the itinerary, with activities like pilates classes in a high-ceilinged barn, private tennis lessons at the food of Oblong Mountain, and cycling adventures along the Harlem Valley Rail Trail. It’s the perfect weekend getaway for active couples—but the 38-room hotel is just as suited for relaxation. Stroll through the formal gardens, sign up for acupuncture treatments or massage, and if the weather’s nice, hang out by the swimming pool under the shade of sycamore trees. 

Capella Ubud, Bali  

This riverside  jungle camp in Bali’s lush Keliki Valley is a favorite destination among  honeymooners , but trust us, it’s far too special to only visit once in your lifetime. The setting is truly sublime, with 23 tented rooms spread over a terraced hillside flanked by paddy fields and dense rainforest. At the Auriga Spa , treatments draw on ancient Balinese and Hindu healing traditions and are accompanied by the sounds of the rainforest. More adventurous couples can go trekking through the Keliki rice paddies or sign up for a G.I Jungle outdoor training session.

A cruise down the Nile River 

For more than one adrenaline rush

Glacier treks and hair-raising hikes in Patagonia, Argentina

End-of-the-world landscapes and out-of-this-world adventures are all part of the experience in Argentinian Patagonia. Thrill-chasers should strap on their ice shoes and trek along the majestic Perito Moreno Glacier, a vast shield of ice whose surface is slightly larger than Buenos Aires, while wildlife lovers can glimpse giant Humpback whales, penguins, and sea lions in Ushuaia, South America’s southernmost city. For the ultimate bonding experience, attempt the 13-mile Laguna de Los Trek hike in El Chalten, which will bring you to the foot of the mighty Mount Fitz Roy. 

Wildlife sightings and outdoor adventures in Arenal Volcano National Park Costa Rica

The beauty of Costa Rica’s Arenal Volcano National Park is that you can do as much—or as little—as you want and still have a great time. This is especially true of couples who choose to bed down at the adults-only  Nayara Springs , a collection of luxurious private villas with plunge pools, gardens, outdoor showers, and show-stopping views of the Arenal Volcano. Off-property adventures include white-water rafting expeditions down the Sarapiqui River, visits to the 195-foot waterfall in the Arenal Hanging Bridges Park, and a photo tour of the lava fields.

A luxury train ‘safari’ through Namibia  

The best way to explore the vast, sun-baked desert of Namibia? By train, of course! On a nine-night safari journey with the ultra-glamorous  Rovos Rail , you and your partner will traverse some of the country’s most dramatic landscapes, including the Succulent Karoo desert, the red dunes of the Sossusvlei dry lake, and the Walvis Bay tidal lagoon. You’ll make plenty of stops along the way, so you can fully appreciate the wide-open views and snap photos of the wildlife. To travel in style, splurge on the wood-paneled Royal Suite sleeper coach.

Dude ranch adventures in Utah

Studies show that couples who actively try new things together are less likely to fall into a rut. Well, we don’t know about you, but we can’t think of a better relationship-building exercise than learning the “art of cowboying” at Utah’s  Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Resorts Collection . Set on a 3,500-acre private working ranch a half-hour from Salt Lake City, the hotel offers a range of equine adventures suited for amateurs and experienced riders alike—instruction in English riding, rides through the flower-covered meadows of the Wasatch Mountains, and even a breathwork session in the stable. 

A road trip along Australia’s Great Ocean Road  

The open road offers complete spontaneity and freedom of choice—the perfect option for couples who like to leave extra room for scenic detours. For the ultimate road trip itinerary, set your sights on Australia’s Great Ocean Road, a 150-mile stretch that winds around the country’s scenic southern coast. Says Stuart Rigg, owner of  Southern Crossings Australia : “The Great Ocean Road offers captivating landscapes, charming seaside towns, fabulous food and wine experiences, and great opportunities to get outdoors with the one you love.” While he notes that the route is best known for its iconic limestone rock formations like the iconic 12 Apostles, he notes that there are plenty of other photo ops and attractions along the way. Among them: towering Californian Redwoods in Otway National Park, the Kennett River Koala Walk, and the highly-award Wickens restaurant at the Royal Mail Hotel. 

A cruise down the Nile River  

Egypt’s Nile River is so mythical, even Cole Porter crooned about it in his love songs. To cruise it in style, opt for a six-day itinerary with  Nour el Nil on a traditional flat-bottomed  dahabiya  sailboat. As you journey from Esna to Aswan, you and your sweetheart will float past reed-covered banks, the dunes of the Sahara, and ancient monuments like the Gebel El Silsila Temple that other large ships can’t reach. 

A heirloom and beetroot variation at Odette 

For unforgettable meals (and wine lists)

Napa Valley, California   

Wine tastings, hot-air balloon rides, pilgrimage-worthy dining, chic boutique hotels. No place does romance quite like Napa Valley. And while you could easily spend weeks discovering the region’s wineries and restaurants, there are a few spots that couples shouldn’t miss. At Sullivan Rutherford Estate, enjoy a private Cab Sauv tasting and tour of the sculpted gardens before settling in for a nine-course tasting menu at Thomas Keller’s lauded  French Laundry. Or swing by Gott’s Roadside to pick up a milkshake and old-fashioned burger before catching the sunset at Skyline Wilderness Park. The recently reborn  Poetry Inn is probably the region’s most swoon-worthy stay, with just five rooms boasting vineyard views, sweeping private terraces, and soaking tubs.

The Lake District, England

The English Lake District has long attracted outdoor enthusiasts who come to scale the U.K.’s highest peaks But in recent decades, the verdant region in northwest England has emerged as a gastronomic hotspot. It all started in 2002 when British chef Simon Rogan—one of the pioneers of the farm-to-table movement—opened his now-famous  L’Enclume in the quaint village of Cartmel. The three-starred Michelin restaurant is known for putting inventive spins on classic dishes using organic produce from Rogan’s 12-acre farm. Since then, plenty of other high-end restaurants have set up shop, like the acclaimed British-Asian  Blackbull  in Sedbergh and the  Old Stamp House in Ambleside. Now the region has become somewhat of a food pilgrimage, popular among couples craving haute cuisine and gastronomic-centered hotels like  Linthwaite House and  Our Rooms by L’Enclume . 

Emilia Romagna, Italy

Every corner of Italy has something to offer from a culinary perspective. But only the northern Italian region of Emilia-Romagna can lay claim to 44 DOP food products including Parmigiano Reggiano, tortellini, and ragù bolognese. Begin your eatathon in the region’s capital, Bologna. With only one Michelin-starred restaurant in the entire city (yes, really), couples will have to do their own research, strolling the city’s grand porticos in search of the best osteria and trattorias. From Bologna, the options are limitless: visit family-run vinegar producers in Modena; try Culatello, the most prestigious of all cured meats, in Parma; and develop a taste for Lambrusco in Reggio Emilia. And for a no-expenses-spared date night out, there’s only one place to know about: Massimo Bottura’s renowned  Osteria Francescana in Modena. 

As a melting pot of Chinese, Malay, and Indian cultures, Singapore is one of the world’s great food cities—and a real feast for travelers hungry for food  and  culture. And sure, there are temples of fine dining galore (we’re looking at you,  Odette ), but some of the city’s best bites come from unassuming local vendors at the city’s legendary hawker centers. At the Chinatown Complex Food Centre, sample everything from fragrant laksa soup and Chinese steamed buns to piping-hot clay pot rice. For date night, make reservations at the renowned  Atlas Bar , a vaulted space with Art Deco flair and the world’s largest gin collection. Even the city’s Jewel Changi Airport is a culinary wonderland with 100+ eateries, allowing couples to make the most of their every meal in the food-obsessed city. 

South Africa’s Wine Country  

From stunning Cape Dutch-style architecture and world-class restaurants to luxurious wine country hotels, South Africa’s wine country is truly suited to all tastes. After checking in at  Delaire Graff Estates , a boutique hotel and winery near Stellenbosch, toast to your romantic getaway with a bottle of méthode cap classique (South Africa’s version of Champagne). You’ll want to set aside a few days to go wine tasting in Stellenbosch and the neighboring regions Franschhoek, Paarl, and Constantia, where the grape to seek out is Pinotage, South Africa’s flagship variety. For a vacation memory that’ll age like fine wine, splurge on the tasting menu at  Chefs Warehouse at Beau Constantia .  

For art and culture around every corner

It’s no secret that the French capital is a cultural powerhouse. But it’s not always easy to escape the crowds and enjoy the cultural treasures for yourself—or is it? According to the uber-stylish Parisian hoteliers Anouk and Louis Solanet of  Orso hotel group, there are plenty of lesser-known gems even in popular neighborhoods like Montmartre (you just need to know where to look). One of the couple’s favorite spots is the Musée de la vie Romantique , a literary museum situated at the base of Montmartre and set within the former house of Dutch painter Ary Scheffer. “We love to sit in silence in the hidden garden, which smells of roses and lilacs,” says Anouk. Afterwards, they recommend grabbing a drink at  Hotel Rochechouart ’s rooftop, which offers dead-on views of the Sacré Coeur. On the Left Bank, the couple loves strolling through the Jardin du Luxembourg and on to Rue Notre-Dame-des-Champs, one of the streets that inspired Woody Allen’s  Midnight in Paris,  and finally to the Giacometti Foundation—“A jewel of Parisian museum,” says Louis—which is dedicated to the life and work of the famous Swiss sculptor Alberto Giacometti. 

Lausanne, Switzerland

Switzerland’s fourth-largest city is straight out of a fairytale, with a medieval Old Town and vertiginous streets that rise above the shimmering waters of Lake Geneva. It’s also one of the country’s most underrated arts hubs, thanks to the recent opening of  Platforme 10 , a striking new art district home to three of the city’s major art museums. For couples who prefer to see art en plein air, go on a cultural scavenger hunt to locate 82 works scattered throughout the hillside city (don’t miss Clelia Bettua’s sculptural weather vane at the Port of Ouchy). To cap off a perfect day, catch a show at the newly modernized Théâre de Vidy before retiring at the  Hôtel Royal Savoy Lausanne , a grand castle-like property that wouldn’t be out of place in a Wes Anderson flick. The hotel has a sublime spa, a rooftop terrace overlooking the lake, and an unbeatable location near all the top cultural spots. 

Buenos Aires

Is there a city sexier than Buenos Aires? There’s something sultry about Argentina’s capital, from its dimly-lit tango bars and balmy weather to its heady mix of South American and European influences. After catching a tango performance at the city’s best-known milonga, La Catedral , continue your cultural immersion at the Teatro Colon —one of the world’s most beautiful opera houses—where Igor Stravinsky has performed, Rudolph Nureyev has danced, and Maria Callas has sung. From there, it’s a short walk to  El Ateneo Grand Splendid , a bookstore occupying a former theater and featuring century-old ceiling frescos. But to really feel the spirit of the city, couples should spend an afternoon in the colorful La Boca neighborhood, where there are vibrant murals, live music, and views of the Riachuelo River.

Venice, Italy  

“Venice is pure magic,” says Amina Dearmon of Perspectives Travel. “I love being able to wander the streets, stop at an osteria for an Aperol Spritz, and watch the sunset from the Accademia Bridge.” Like so many Italian cities, Venice is like an open-air museum, brimming with art and culture at every turn. Its narrow streets and atmospheric squares are packed with heavy-hitting institutions, too, like the  Peggy Guggenheim Collection , the  Doge’s Palace , and the  Palazzo Ca’ Pesaro . First-time visitors shouldn’t miss a side trip to Murano, the second-largest island in the Venetian lagoon, to learn about its long tradition of glassmaking at the  Venice Glass Museum . 

The former imperial capital of Japan is home to more than a dozen UNESCO World Heritage Sites and some 2,000 Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. In any other city, the sheer volume of culture would be head-spinning. But in Kyoto, it’s a pleasure to stroll around the peaceful temple gardens, traditional teahouses, and ancient storefronts, feeling transported to an earlier time. Top landmarks include the famous orange torii gates at the Fushimi Inari shrine, the celebrated Kiyomizu Temple, and the impressive Nijo Castle. If the budget allows, spend the night at the new  Aman Kyoto , a sanctuary-like retreat set on 80 acres of hilly woodland in the north of the city, a stone’s throw from the golden Kinkaku-ji Temple.  

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America’s 7 Most Romantic Road Trips for Couples

By Author Tara Schatz

Posted on Published: January 8, 2024

Categories Destinations , Get Outside , road trips , United States

Is there anything as romantic as an epic road trip with the one you love by your side?

On a road trip, there are no “honey-do lists,” only bucket lists. And instead of stressing about getting it all done, you’ll be enjoying sunset picnics, secluded hot springs, and long stretches of back-road rambling. 

Road tripping as a couple is about overcoming obstacles, strengthening your relationship, and discovering the world together.

This means, that just about any stretch of beautiful highway will do, but there are some ingredients that make for more romantic road trips than others — Beautiful scenery. Opportunities for solitude. Great lodging and dining. Out-of-the-ordinary experiences.

With that in mind, we’ve collected our most memorable and romantic road trips across America. If you’re planning your next romantic getaway and aren’t sure where to go, the following road trips have never let us down.

Also Read: 7 Reasons Why a Couples Road Trip Will Improve Your Relationship

Table of Contents

Coastal Fun on Oregon Coast Highway 101

What could be more romantic than a coastal road trip with gorgeous views around every corner? The Pacific Coast in Oregon is known for its wild shoreline, gravity-defying cliffs, and quirky coastal towns.

There’s no shortage of tiny restaurants near the shore where you can sip a glass of wine as the sun sinks into the ocean.

Five days on the Oregon Coast Highway may convince you that it’s one of the most beautiful and romantic road trips in the entire world.

Covering about 340 miles, you can certainly cover this road trip in a weekend, but we’re proponents of slow travel, and five days gives you lots of time to explore while spending three to four hours in the car each day.

The trip begins on the northern border in the town of Astoria, where three rivers converge with the Pacific Ocean. From there, you’ll begin a leisurely drive southward, stopping at ocean overlooks, coastal hiking trails, and tiny surf shops.

Be sure to explore the galleries and boutiques in Manzanita, sample ice cream at Tillamook Creamery, and tour the Cape Meares Lighthouse.

Check out the route on Google Maps

Where to stay : So many choices! In Astoria, stay at Atomi c Motel for cute, affordable rooms in a great location. Heading south to Manzanita, the Inn at Manzanita is just a stone’s throw from the beach. The Landmark Inn in Florence is a seven-minute walk to shops and restaurants and just a short drive from Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area.

Best time to take this road trip: Summer or early fall would be ideal!

Sound like a perfect romantic adventure? We’ve got a full five-day itinerary for this Oregon coastal road trip .

A Romantic Road Trip through Vermont and New Hampshire

You can’t get much more romantic than a road trip through the mountains of Vermont and New Hampshire, where you’ll discover tidy villages, rugged mountain peaks, more craft beer than you can possibly drink, and creaky rocking chairs on the front porch of every general store.

The mountains in New England are ancient and forested, and the back roads lead to all kinds of surprises that haven’t even been discovered on Instagram yet.

We recommend five to seven days for this 460-mile loop that begins and ends in Portsmouth, one of New England’s oldest settlements. If you’re craving sea breezes or seafood, spend a few days in Portsmouth before driving north into the White Mountains.

One of the most enticing stretches of pavement on this New England journey is the 34-mile Kancamagus Highway that connects Conway and Lincoln, New Hampshire . This area is a wonderful jumping-off point for exploring waterfalls, trails, and picnic areas.

Next, drive through a beautiful stretch of rural Vermont (look out for moose!) and land in the mountain village and ski town of Stowe.

In Stowe, you can spend the day hiking, take the gondola to the top of Mount Mansfield at Stowe Mountain Resort , enjoy craft beer and a stellar meal at Idletyme Brewing , and spend a day exploring cute shops and gorgeous views.

From Stowe, drive south, stopping in Vermont’s capital city and spending at least a day in Woodstock, where you can explore Vermont’s only National Park and another adorable downtown. Grab a romantic dinner at the Prince & the Pauper.

Continue south to the vibrant arts community of Brattleboro, Vermont , before heading east and back into New Hampshire. If you have time, hike to the top of Mount Monadnock, the second most-hiked mountain in the world (after Mount Fuji).

Where to stay: In Portsmouth, we can’t say enough about the Water Street Inn . It’s within walking distance of downtown and beautiful. In Lincoln, New Hampshire, check out RiverWalk Resort at Loon Mountain . There’s a heated outdoor pool and hot tub, a spa, and an onsite winery. In Stowe, stay at Talta Lodge , where you’ll have your own outdoor seating area and access to the river and rec path. Finally, check out the Monadnock Inn near Jaffrey, New Hampshire, which is very close to Mount Monadnock.

Best time to take this road trip: October is phenomenal for fall foliage, but you will want to book lodging well in advance as it’s a busy time to visit.

Explore Coastal and Interior Maine

Maine is a big state, and while lots of people combine a Maine road trip with nearby New Hampshire and Vermont, we think it deserves a trip all its own.

Most people think of the rocky coast, lobster, and LL Bean when they think of Maine, but spend a day or two in the interior, which is gorgeous and wild, with lots of opportunities for solitude and romance.

This romantic Maine road trip is just shy of 560 miles, starting in the busy seaport of Portland and traveling up the coast to Acadia National Park and the tiny town of Lubec before heading inland to explore a few small towns. Give yourself a week to explore Maine on this beautiful road trip.

In Portland, meander around Old Port and the West End, stopping for a drink and dinner at one of the many waterfront cafes. Hike around the Portland Head Lighthouse at sunrise before heading north on Route 1.

They say that there is more coastline in Maine than any other state, and once you start driving, you’ll understand why – there are so many inlets and peninsulas jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean, that you could spend a lifetime exploring them. 

Detour to the touristy Boothbay Harbor, Pemaquid Beach , and Camden Hills State Park before spending a few days in Acadia National Park .

The town of Lubec is the easternmost point in the United States. There are some nice hiking trails and beautiful views near the West Quoddy Head Lighthouse .

Interior Maine is a choose-your-own-adventure type of place, with secluded ponds and lakes, small farming communities, and tiny villages.

Rent a cottage in the Belgrade Lakes Region in the Kennebec Valley, a chain of seven lakes that are perfect for all kinds of water-based activities.

Check out this road trip on Google Maps

Where to stay: In Portland, check out The Westin, a hip hotel with a rooftop bar in a restored 1927 building. In Boothbay Harbor, splurge on a romantic stay at Tugboat Inn , a waterfront property within walking distance to downtown. There are many amazing spots to stay in Bar Harbor, but one of our favorites is Yellow House Inn , which has delightful rooms and an amazing breakfast. The Keeper’s Cottage in Lubec is near the West Quoddy Lighthouse and sleeps four.

Best time to take this road trip: Summer is gorgeous in Maine, but it also gets really crowded, so I suggest visiting between September and October so you can focus on your romantic road trip and not on traffic jams.

A Camping Road Trip on Highway 12 in Utah

It’s no secret that I adore Utah, and this route is one of the most beautifully romantic road trips around. Imagine long desert sunsets, secluded canyons, and endless acres of public lands.

If you are looking for one of the best road trips for couples — one that features awesome national parks, great camping, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, stop what you’re doing and plan a Highway 12 road trip through southern Utah.

This one-way road trip is 123 miles of the most stunningly beautiful scenery in the southwest. We’ve done this trip as a family and as a couple, and I imagine we’ll keep on exploring it for decades to come.

This route makes a lovely weekend getaway, but I’d also recommend spending several days in both Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef National Park, extending your trip to five days.

The trip begins in the town of Panguitch and travels through the Red Canyon before entering Bryce Canyon National Park . Pitch your tent at Sunset Campground, take in the hoodoo views, and hike some trails with the one you love.

Continue east and stop at Kiva Koffeehouse for pastries and caffeine. For a romantic night that doesn’t involve pitching a tent, book a night in Kiva Cottage . This is such a dreamy spot! We didn’t stay there, but we checked out the spot and the views just don’t stop!

Capitol Reef National Park is the most underrated of the five national parks in Utah. A historic orchard is open to the public for picking in late July, and you can score a fresh-baked cherry pie and homemade ice cream at the  Gifford Homestead   store.

Where to stay: Camp at Sunset Campground in Bryce Canyon , and book a night at Kiva Cottage if you can. If you want to spend time exploring Capitol Reef National Park, but don’t want to camp, consider  Capitol Reef Resort , which is close to the park entrance, features amazing views, and you can choose from a standard hotel room, a teepee, or a covered wagon for your lodging. There’s also a casual restaurant on site, an outdoor pool and hot tub, and a fitness center.

The best time to take this road trip: is April or October to beat the heat and the majority of crowds.

Sound like a perfect adventure? Here’s an overview of our summer road trip on Highway 12 in Utah .

Wine and Waterfalls in the Finger Lakes

What happens when you combine five state parks, five wineries, and 50+ amazing Finger Lakes waterfalls into a five-day road trip? A kind of crazy, but oh-so-fun Finger Lakes vacation in Western New York — one of the most romantic road trips we can think of!

The Finger Lakes region is just four hours from Manhattan, but you might as well be on another planet. No other area east of the Mississippi can boast of more wine-sipping and gorge-hiking goodness than Western New York. Throw in more than 150 waterfalls and a few perfect spots to spend the night, and you’ll want to pack your bags before you finish reading.

This trip covers about 145 miles (depending on where you begin) in five days. Each day features a hike in the morning and wine tasting in the afternoon, followed by a night either camping or glamping (we provide a few hotel options as well).

Check out this route on Google Maps

Best time to take this road trip: Definitely summer. There are endless patios to relax on and rivers to swim in!

Sound like a perfect adventure? We have a complete five-day itinerary for exploring wine and waterfalls in the Finger Lakes, complete with where to stay each night.

Find Love on the Blue Ridge Parkway

The 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway has been called America’s favorite drive. Meandering through the mountains from Rockfish Gap, Virginia south to Cherokee, North Carolina, you’ll no doubt kindle a bit of romance on the Blue Ridge Parkway, and you may become a dedicated road-tripper if you aren’t one already.

As long as you pay attention to your mileposts, traveling on the Blue Ridge Parkway and finding attractions, hikes, and vistas is easy. The numbers start at 0 at the northern entrance in Waynesboro, Virginia, and end at milepost 469 in Cherokee, North Carolina at the southern entrance. There are plenty of places to get on and off the parkway along the way.

You may have already noticed that we’re fans of easy hikes, waterfalls, and camping, and you’ll find plenty of that stuff on your journey, but you’ll also discover cool historic sites, wineries, small towns, and lots of mountain music.

Give yourself five to seven days to drive the whole Blue Ridge Parkway, one of the best road trips for couples in the USA! If you have time, stay a few days in Roanoke, Virginia , which is one of our favorite small cities in America.

Use this interactive Blue Ridge Parkway map to plan your trip.

Where to stay: There are nine designated campgrounds on the Blue Ridge Parkway, so your trip can be affordable and romantic if you don’t mind roughing it a bit. If you crave comfort, we’ve got suggestions for glamping on the Blue Ridge Parkway too!

Sound like the perfect adventure? Here are seven fabulous things to do on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Best time to take this trip: May through October is great for camping on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Hot Springs and Hiking in California and Nevada

Lonely desert highways, weird roadside attractions, and a nice mix of thrilling outdoor adventures that you won’t find anywhere else. Welcome to the quiet side of California and Nevada, one of the most romantic road trips we can think of for lovers of solitude.

Actually, this ten-day California and Nevada road trip starts in the crazy-busy, must-visit Yosemite National Park and heads off the beaten path from there.

I will not tell you that this road trip has something for everyone because that would be a lie. Instead, it’s got secret aliens, weird clowns, hidden hot springs, ancient petroglyphs, and trees hanging with shoe ornaments. Intrigued?

This is the ultimate quirky, but scenic route that starts in the Sierra Nevada mountains and ends in the intimate metropolis of Reno, Nevada. While the vast desert landscape often looks the same for miles and miles, there are enough cool spots to keep things interesting. 

Give yourself at least 10 days to explore everything on this 1,200-mile road trip, or make adjustments based on the time you’ve got.

Best time to take this road trip: September or October for cool temps and fewer crowds.

Sound like the perfect adventure? Check out the complete 10-day itinerary, which includes hikes, attractions, and lodging.

Have you taken any of these romantic road trips with the one you love? Share your favorite in the comments!

Follow us on social media for more road trip ideas!

Tara is a freelance writer and travel blogger with a passion for outdoor adventures. She is the co-author of AMC’s Best Day Hikes in Vermont and currently blogs at Back Road Ramblers and Vermont Explored , where she shares travel tips, adventure destinations, and vacation ideas for the wanderer in everyone.

Are these the 13 BEST DAY TRIPS from Moscow?

Russia, however, is an impossibly huge country. And being so big there’s a lot of things to see, even just outside of Moscow – a great idea when the city just feels too much.

Our guide to the best day trips from Moscow has been made with exploring in mind. We’ve included amazing day trips from Moscow by train, days out for couples – even family and budget-friendly excursions, so there’s something for everyone.

Look no further than below to see what mysterious Russia has to offer on a Moscow day trip…

Editor’s note – Looking for a place to crash in the Russian capital? Check out our 15 best hostels in Moscow!

Quick Answer: Best Day Trips from Moscow

• Day Trips from Moscow by Train – St Petersburg
• Romantic Day Trips from Moscow for Couples – Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside
• Best Day Trips from Moscow with Kids – Sergiev Posad from Moscow
• Best Cheap Day Trips from Moscow – Gorki Leninskiye

Best Places to Stay in Moscow

Moscow might have a hardy image but staying in the city will show you its softer side. Choosing the right area to stay in the Moscow will open the city up to you and you’ll enjoy all of the day trips around the Russian capital city in a totally hassle free way.

• Best Hostel in Moscow •

Good news hostel.

• All about the location

This top Moscow hostel is in a great location – so there’s a metro station in easy walk (one stop to the Kremlin), the neighbourhood is chill, and you can even stroll easily to the acclaimed Gogol Center from here. But the staff are also very good and the interiors of the hostel itself feel rustic and homely.

• Best Budget Hotel in Moscow •

Arbat house hotel.

• Incredible value for money

A 4-star hotel? The best budget hotel in Moscow? Yes, it’s true. All the elegance of this art nouveau building and its classic interiors can be yours for a bargain of a price. There’s also a buffet breakfast and an Italian restaurant, which sounds good to us! Plus the location is great: it’s just a five minute stroll from Arbatskaya station.

• Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow •

Hotel national moscow.

• Complete old world luxury

A sublime and historic hotel that first opened its doors in 1903, the Hotel National Moscow is the place to be for old world luxury and refinement. Definitely. Sip on drinks in the elegant bar in the evening, wake up with a coffee in the atrium courtyard, enjoy a dip in the pool, or simply laze around in your super luxe room.

#1 Best Day Trip from Moscow – St Petersburg

Day trips from moscow by train.

• High-speed train
• See famous sites
• Eat local food

Use your time in Russia to see not just one but two of its incredible cities, and take this one day trip from Moscow by train to St Petersburg and all its top sights. The high-speed train from the centre of Moscow speeds you across the land to reach St Petersburg in four hours.

Take a tour that’ll navigate you to the best sight in the city so you can pack as much as possible into the time you have there.

You can see the stunning Hermitage Museum, as well as the Winter Palace, the Church of the Spilled Blood and St Peter & Paul Cathedral. If you have time, you can enjoy a boat ride along the picturesque canals of St Petersburg.

You’ll even get to sample some of the city’s cuisine on your route to its various attractions, as well as enjoy a Russian coffee in a charming cafe in the city.

Make your way back to Moscow on the train after having an action-packed day in Russia’s second city.

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#2 – Monino

• Visit an old air base
• See Russian military planes
• Great for history fans

If you’re a fan of aviation then this is going to be a super fun day trip by train from Moscow for you. The town of Monino is located around 20 miles from Moscow and is relativity unspectacular… Except for its amazing aviation museum.

The day trip from Moscow to Monino takes around an hour by train through the Moscow suburbs, and once you arrive at the station you’ll need to walk around a mile to reach the museum itself, but the journey will be well worth it  

The Central Air Force Museum is the largest of its kind the world and is bursting with Russian aircraft as well as a whole host of other interesting exhibits.

A great place to take kids for the day, the museum has over 180 Russian aircraft to see around this old airbase. There’s old planes from the Second World War as well as amazing amphibious aircraft.

You can also learn about Russian military aviation history with a pretty fascinating tour by ex-pilots, which will help make it a day to remember.

#3 – Kolomna

• Fun train trip
• Historical fortress
• Try local food

A great day trip from Moscow by train, you will get to see the real daily life of Moscow as you hop on the metro from Moscow central railway station. Travel with your guide out of the city and out into the surrounding countryside.

As you make the hour and a half train journey you’ll get the chance to chat with your guide, learn about interesting historical facts and ask some questions about Kolomna – or maybe just about Russian life!

On arrival in Kolomna, you’ll see for yourself the amazing historical fortress: the Kolomna Kremlin. Dating all the way back to the 15th century, your guide will show you the fortress with its 17 soaring towers and red walls.

Treat yourself to lunch and then, if you’re into food (like we are), we suggest you take a detour to the Kalachnaya Museum – which is dedicated to the incredibly sweet traditional pastila, also known as a ‘Kolomna marshmallow’.

With renewed energy from the sweet, sweet snacks, spend the afternoon at the Museum Forging Settlement with its collection of ancient relics.

#4 – Kaluga

• Amazing museum
• Learn all about space travel  
• Interesting history

A really interesting and educational day trip from Moscow by train, this one takes you through rural Russia on the express train to Kaluga. Once in this riverside city make your way to the Tsiolkovsky State Museum of the History of Cosmonautics – or simply, the Space Museum.

Dedicated to cosmonauts, it was the first museum in the world to space exploration and is a truly fascinating place to spend the day away from the city.

Fans of architecture should bring their camera along for the day too, the museum which was built in 1961 is an amazing brutalist creation built with the future in mind. The cornerstone was laid by Yuri Gagarin himself and the museum is dedicated to a rocket science pioneer: Konstantin Tsiolkovsky.

Inside you’ll be in awe of the feats of humanity as they launched themselves into space… Get up close to life-sized models of famous rockets including Sputnik 1 and learn about the science behind space travel. An ideal day trip for children as well as adults, it’s also a good day trip from Moscow away from tourist crowds.

Staying Safe in Moscow

While Moscow is super safe, no matter where you are traveling, you NEED to have great travel insurance . We have personally tested TONS of travel insurance companies, and World Nomads is our favorite (and most affordable!).

Fill out the form below to get a quote so you can have a stress-free time traveling around Russia!

#5 – Zvenigorod

Romantic day trips from moscow for couples.

• Historical sites
• Traditional food
• See a tea ceremony

Spend a day away from the city with your other half as you explore one of the oldest towns in the region. This romantic day trip from Moscow for couples whisks you away from the city along the Moscow River to spend the day in Zvenigorod.

This old town is jammed full of history and you’ll start your tour together with a visit to the 14th century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. The town is a glimpse into a Russia of the past and a great way to understand more about the Moscow countryside.

Sample the refreshing kvass, a Russian speciality drink that’s enjoyed in the summer months. And make sure you spare enough time to enjoy a long lunch together in one of the town’s cafes; there’ll be a variety of traditional dishes served and you can learn all about the local food (great for foodies).

Make a trip for dessert at the literally delicious Russian Dessert Museum, where you can also experience a Russian tea ceremony – complete with the traditional samovar, of course.

Finally round up your day trip with a stroll around the wonderful grounds of Ershovo Estate, an old country estate located just outside town.

#6 – Vladimir

• Visit the ancient capital
• UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Amazing scenery

Spend the day exploring the old town close to Moscow and see more of the rural life in the province. Take this day trip from Moscow for couples and discover ancient architecture and old traditions that are an intrinsic part of this region’s culture and heritage.

On your trip, you’ll be able to make stops off at picturesque Russian churches made from white stone and see quaint, old fortified towns before arriving in Vladimir itself.

The medieval capital of Russia, it’s rich in history, with a few UNESCO World Heritage Sites under its belt in the form of the fortress-like Cathedral of Saint Demetrius, the imposing Golden Gate, and the grand, golden-domed Assumption Cathedral – all of which date back to the mid-1100s.

Head north to the small town north of Suzdal with its many well-maintained historical monuments and colourful churches. The town is surrounded by green fields and is a romantic place to take a stroll with your other half and explore one of the many quintessential white churches of the area.

#7 – Golden Circle Banya

• Try out a traditional banya
• Three-course Russian meal

This is a fun day trip from Moscow for couples which will treat you both to a truly Russian experience. The tour will take you to see some of the many charming historic towns that surround Moscow – such as Sergiyev Posad, to visit the famous Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius monastery, of course.

The monastery is a must-see sight on a day trip from Moscow, but the best part of the day is that you get to really enjoy part of Russian culture at a banya.

The traditional sauna is part of more than 1,000 years of tradition and you and your partner will be able to try one out for yourself.

The traditional wooden sauna is situated on a stunning lake and you’ll have a whole three hours to spend learning all about the customs and enjoy a treatment. Try out an exfoliating skin scrub Russian style called a venki – you may have seen this before, and it sort of resembles being hit with the branch of a tree (complete with dry leaves) to get the blood flowing, of course. 

After all of the preening, and lot of sweating and just a little bit of pain, you can then run out of the hothouse and cool off in the lake outside. And then the real secret ingredient of the banya this time around is tucking into a hearty three-course traditional Russian dinner.

#8 – Sergiyev Posad

Day trips from moscow with kids.

• UNESCO site
• Traditional lunch

A fun day trip from Moscow with kids that means you get to ride on a train together and learn all about Russian history. Sergiyev Posad is a fantastic destination for an easy day trip from Moscow that packs a lot into the day.

Make your first stop in the city a visit to the UNESCO-protected Troitse-Sergieva Lavra and then head out to for a stroll around the old city along the small streets with charming traditional houses. Do as the locals have done for years and take some bread to feed the ducks with your children at the Kelarskiy Pond which was created in 1552.

Make sure you see the Assumption Cathedral in the town’s Kremlin that was influenced by Ivan the Terrible himself and go inside the site of the first wooden church – still an important place for pilgrimages. Enjoy a traditional dumpling lunch together as you and your children learn all about Russian life.

#9 – Traditional Russia

• Learn how to cook
• Wear traditional clothes

A really great way for your family to learn all about traditional life in Russia , this day trip from Moscow for kids will get you all time-travelling back to the past as you visit Russian huts.

Your guide will take you to the rustic hut which comes with a Russian stove and interiors made of natural materials. Inside the hut, you will be able to taste old traditional Russian food, from red caviar and tea from a samovar.

You can all learn how to cook a traditional Russian dish over the stove and sample some tasty pickles. The whole day will be a unique experience and a way to understand more about the country as a whole.

After eating you’ll get dressed up in traditional Russian dress and take part in old games which will be a lot of fun for everyone. And, if you really want to round up the day in style, you can try out a real Russian bath!

#10 – Yaroslavl

• Guided tour
• Historical architecture
• Scenic road trip

For a day away from the city crowds surrounded by Russian history, enjoy this day trip from Moscow to Yaroslavl.

You and your family will get driven with a guide all the way through amazing landscapes to this old historical city with its ancient streets and architecture from the 16th and 17th centuries.

Your guide will tell you all tales of Yaroslav the Wise, a prince that helped to shape Russia through uniting principalities.

You will get to hear all about more recent Russian history and have the chance to ask lots of questions – the perfect opportunity for you all to learn more about Russia.

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#11 – Gorki Leninskiye

Best cheap day trips from moscow.

• Soviet history
• Amazing architecture
• Intriguing museum

Around 30 kilometres south of the Russian capital city itself, Gorki Leninskiye makes for a cheap day trip from Moscow. Keep costs low by travelling on public transport with a mix of train travel and local bus to reach this on the banks of the River Turovka.

The estate, more like a museum complex, is historically interesting as it’s where Lenin lived and died. Naturally, Gorki Leninskiye is practically saturated with statues and monuments from that era.

Not only interesting for its part in Soviet history but also for its mix of architectural styles; the softer classical style of Lenin’s actual old house and the blocky harshness of the Lenin museum.

The Museum of Political History – as it is now known – is made of black and white marble and is designated to celebrate Lenin and his life.

It’s easy to spend a few hours here getting lost reading old documents, scanning old photographs and being taken aback by the towering statue of Lenin himself in the entrance way, complete with flowing red cloth.

The house itself can only be visited on a tour in Russian but, all the same, it’s a unique glimpse into another time – you can even see Lenin’s old bathroom!

#12 – Serpukhov

• Historic town
• Easy to reach by train
• Grand buildings to see

Serpukhov is another bastion of history in the Moscow area that deserves a visit from anybody interested in learning about Russia’s centuries-old heritage. Checking this town out makes for a great cheap day trip from Moscow: you’ll be there in under two hours from Moscow’s Kurskiy Vokzal station.

This city was founded in 1339, originally to protect Moscow from southern invasions, became a princedom, then itself was conquered by Tatars. A citadel was built to repel invades in 1556… but by the 19th-century residents were pinching bits of its limestone for their own houses.

You can still see it on a hill in town. The main sight here is, in fact, the extravagant Moscow Baroque style Trinity Cathedral, built in the 17th century.

Elsewhere there’s the 500-year-old Vysotsky Monastery, home to the apparently miracle-working icon ‘Inexhaustible Chalice’, which is said to cure those suffering from drug addictions and alcoholism.

#13 – Dmitrov

• Explore one of Moscow’s oldest towns.
• Learn about Russian history
• Easy train ride from Moscow

An easy hour and fifteen minutes by train from Savyelovskiy Station, this cheap day trip from Moscow to Dmitrov is a great chance to soak up some more historic culture to be found in Moscow Oblast.

This town was incredibly founded in the 12th century (1154 to be precise) and has existed ever since, with its current iteration filled with charming centuries-old buildings complete with pastel coloured facades.

For facts and artefacts, head over to the Museum-Reserve Dmitrov Kremlin. Set in a beautiful building, you can also wander around the ruins of the old castle (or kremlin) marvelling at the history in the air.

Elsewhere there’s the ornate 1760s Vvedenskaya Church piercing the sky as well as The Cathedral of Sts. Boris and Gleb.

One of the most ancient towns in the Moscow region, curiously Dmitrov also had the accolade of ‘The Best Run Town In Russia’ awarded to it in 2005, which certainly has us wondering.

Final Thoughts on the Best Day Trips from Moscow

There’s more heritage and history in the Moscow region than you might even be able to fit into years of exploration.

Towns and cities nearby chart the rise of the Russian capital itself, and you can see it for yourself: grand cathedrals, imposing fortresses and monastery’s are often a quick day trip from Moscow.

From romantic excursions that see couples being whisked around the famous Golden Circle of the most historically important of Moscow’s satellite cities, to family days out to show your children the weird and wonderful world of Russian cosmonautics, there’s something for everyone on our guide to Moscow’s top day trips.

And we even included cheap day trips from Moscow, often involving an affordable train ride out of the city, to suit you if you’re on a budget.

Get ready for an adventure. Moscow is massive, but Russia is even bigger!

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PM Modi addresses Indian diaspora in Russia, says 'world is surprised to see pace of India's growth'

PM Modi arrived in Moscow in his first trip in nearly five years, after which he met Russian President Vladimir Putin at the latter's official residence. PM Modi will hold an annual bilateral summit with Putin later in the day that will focus on several issues of mutual concern.

"I want to thank all of you for coming here. I have not come here alone, I have come with a lot of things. I have brought with me the fragrance of the soil of India. I have brought with me the love of 140 crore countrymen," he said in his opening remarks. Noting that it has been a full month since he took oath as the Prime Minister for the third time, Modi vowed to work with three times the strength at three times the speed. He said the government's goal was to make India the third-largest economy in the world and provide 3 crore homes to the poor.

"Today's India makes sure it achieves the target it sets. Today, India is the country that takes Chandrayaan to the part of the moon where no other country in the world could reach. Today, India is the country that is giving the most reliable model of digital transactions to the world. Today, India is a country that has the third largest startup ecosystem in the world. When you people gave me the opportunity to serve the country for the first time in 2014, there were hundreds of startups, today there are lakhs of startups," he said.

'World surprised to see India's growth'

The Prime Minister further said the world was surprised to see the pace of India's growth in the last 10 years. "When people from the world come to India, they say 'Bharat badal raha hai'. They are clearly able to see the transformation and reconstruction of India. When India organises successful events like G20, the world speaks in one voice, 'Bharat badal raha hai'. When India doubles the number of its airports in just 10 years, the world says India is changing," he added.

He further asserted that the last ten years were just a 'trailer', and the next ten years in India will see faster growth in development and that all 140 crore Indians are envisioning the dream of a developed India. "India is transforming because India trusts the capability of its 140 crore citizens... it has faith in Indians spread across the world. India is transforming because 140 crore Indians want to fulfil the dream of making it a developed country as a resolve," he added.

PM Modi mentions India's victory in T20 World Cup

PM Modi told the Indian community in Moscow about creating at least 3 lakh 'Lakhpati Didis' by empowering women self-help groups operating in Indian villages, saying their annual income should be more than Rs 1 lakh. "Today's India is full of self-confidence, unlike the situation before 2014, and this is our biggest capital...It's in my DNA to challenge all the challenges; India will write a new chapter of global growth in coming years," he said.

"Today, the country is full of self-confidence and this is the biggest asset of India. You too must have celebrated the victory in the recent T20 World Cup...The real story of winning the World Cup is also the journey of victory. Today's youth of India does not accept defeat till the last ball and the last moment," he further said, in a reference towards the India's historic victory in the T20 Cricket World Cup.

He further said India is now being seen as a strong pillar and 'Vishwa Bandhu' of the new-emerging multipolar global order and the country's growing capabilities have given the hope of stability and prosperity to the world. He also noted the role of cinema, particularly the movies of Raj Kapoor and Mithun Chakraborty, in strengthening India-Russia relations

PM Modi describes Russia as 'all-weather friend'

India has decided to open two more consulates in Russia to ease mobility and trade, announced the Prime Minister. He also thanked Russian President Vladimir Putin for his contribution to boosting ties between India and Russia for over two decades.

"On hearing the word Russia, the first word that comes to mind of every Indian is India's all-weather friend (sukh-dukh ka saathi) and a trusted ally. No matter how much the temperature goes down to minus during the winter season in Russia but India-Russia friendship has always in 'plus', full of warmth. India-Russia relations are built on strong foundations of mutual trust and mutual respect," he said.

"This is my sixth visit to Russia in the last ten years and I have met him (Putin) 17 times in these years. All of these meetings have been to enhance mutual trust and respect. When our students were stuck here in the midst of conflict, President Putin helped them reach India... Now we are also working on the Chennai-Vladivostok Eastern Maritime Corridor. Both our countries are discovering each other through Ganga Volga dialogue and civilisation," he added.

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Russia Sends Waves of Troops to the Front in a Brutal Style of Fighting

More than 1,000 Russian soldiers in Ukraine were killed or wounded on average each day in May, according to NATO and Western military officials.

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By Julian E. Barnes ,  Eric Schmitt and Marc Santora

Julian E. Barnes and Eric Schmitt reported from Washington, and Marc Santora from Kyiv, Ukraine.

May was a particularly deadly month for the Russian army in Ukraine, with an average of more than 1,000 of its soldiers injured or killed each day, according to U.S., British and other Western intelligence agencies.

But despite its losses, Russia is recruiting 25,000 to 30,000 new soldiers a month — roughly as many as are exiting the battlefield, U.S. officials said. That has allowed its army to keep sending wave after wave of troops at Ukrainian defenses, hoping to overwhelm them and break through the trench lines.

It is a style of warfare that Russian soldiers have likened to being put into a meat grinder, with commanding officers seemingly oblivious to the fact that they are sending infantry soldiers to die.

At times, this approach has proved effective, bringing the Russian army victories in Avdiivka and Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine. But Ukrainian and Western officials say the tactics were less successful this spring, as Russia tried to take land near the city of Kharkiv.

American officials said that Russia achieved a critical objective of President Vladimir V. Putin, creating a buffer zone along the border to make it more difficult for the Ukrainians to strike into the country.

But the drive did not threaten Kharkiv and was ultimately stopped by Ukrainian defenses, according to Western officials.

“President Putin and Moscow have really tried to make big gains, to break through the front lines this spring,” Jens Stoltenberg, the NATO secretary general, said in an interview with The New York Times editorial board. “They tried and they failed. They made very small gains, and they are paying a very high price.”

Russian casualties have spiked at other times, especially during the assaults on Avdiivka and Bakhmut. But the assaults on those cities were spread out over several months. The push in May, both outside Kharkiv and along the eastern front, involved more intense periods of Russian wave attacks. British military intelligence analysts said Russia’s casualties in May, which they put at an average of 1,200 a day , were the highest of the war.

The fighting last month decimated the town of Vovchansk, about 40 miles from Kharkiv, where Ukrainian and Russian are engaged in a grueling battle for control.

Russian soldiers have said on Telegram, the social media and messaging platform, that their units are suffering high casualties. Some say their ranks are being cut down by drones, machine gun fire and artillery barrages.

Russia’s use of infantry in wave attacks reflects one of its advantages in the war: Its population is much larger than Ukraine’s, giving it a bigger pool of potential recruits.

But the casualties have forced Russia to ship new recruits to Ukraine relatively quickly, meaning that the soldiers sent to the front are poorly trained.

The lack of structured training, and the need to commit new recruits to combat operations, has limited Russia’s ability to generate more capable units. It also increases casualties.

But it is more complicated than that. The changing nature of modern warfare has also increased the body count in recent months.

Ubiquitous drones have made it easy for both sides to spot, and target, enemy forces. And mines and cluster munitions make movement across open ground a nearly suicidal endeavor.

Since Mr. Putin launched a full-scale invasion in February 2022, at least 350,000 Russian troops have been killed or wounded, Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III recently said. British estimates put the number of Russians killed or wounded at more than 500,000.

U.S. estimates of casualties in the war are based on satellite imagery, communication intercepts, social media and news media dispatches from reporters, as well as official reporting from Russia and Ukraine. But such estimates vary, even within the U.S. government.

Reliable estimates of Ukraine’s casualties are more difficult to come by. Ukrainian officials guard those numbers carefully. Several U.S. officials insist they do not have an accurate account. Mr. Zelensky has said that 31,000 Ukrainian soldiers were killed in the first two years of the war, but American officials say that number appears to understate Ukraine’s losses.

Russia conducted a partial mobilization in September 2022, which led to tens of thousands of young men fleeing the country. But Western intelligence analysts say Russia will not need to conduct another such mobilization or draft this year.

Russia appears to be able to sustain its current campaign by offering financial incentives to recruits, drawing on convicts and bringing in some Russian mercenaries from Africa.

But the major question for this year will be whether Russia’s current strategy can best the Ukrainian military, which is finding its defensive footing. Arms and ammunition from a new $60 billion U.S. aid package are finally reaching the front lines, and Ukrainian commanders are no longer having to ration rounds. Russia still outguns Ukraine, but not by as much.

Ukraine has shifted its posture, building fortifications and laying minefields to slow the Russian advance. War favors the defender, and Ukraine is focusing on holding its lines, American officials said.

“What I see is a slowing of the Russians’ advance and a stabilizing of that particular piece of the front,” Mr. Austin told reporters in Brussels this month. “A couple of weeks ago, there was concern that we would see a significant breakthrough on the part of the Russians. I don’t think we’ll see that going forward.”

And Russia’s new buffer zone at the border near Kharkiv may be a hollow achievement.

Ukraine has still been able to use longer-range American weapons to strike into Russia because of a policy shift by the Biden administration that allows the Ukrainian military to use U.S. missiles to strike military targets just over the border .

American officials said the change is beginning to have an impact, taking out Russian artillery and making it harder for Moscow to strike against Kharkiv.

The result, President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine said this month, was that the Kharkiv offensive had proved to be “yet another mistake for Russia.”

“The destruction of Russian terrorists’ positions and launchers by our forces, our warriors, near the border really matters,” he said . “It is working. Exactly as we expected.”

But for all of Ukraine’s success around Kharkiv, there are more challenges ahead. In the weeks to come, U.S. and Western officials expect the fighting to shift back to the east and the south, as Russia continues to appear willing to expend forces to make incremental gains.

Julian E. Barnes covers the U.S. intelligence agencies and international security matters for The Times. He has written about security issues for more than two decades. More about Julian E. Barnes

Eric Schmitt is a national security correspondent for The Times, focusing on U.S. military affairs and counterterrorism issues overseas, topics he has reported on for more than three decades. More about Eric Schmitt

Marc Santora has been reporting from Ukraine since the beginning of the war with Russia. He was previously based in London as an international news editor focused on breaking news events and earlier the bureau chief for East and Central Europe, based in Warsaw. He has also reported extensively from Iraq and Africa. More about Marc Santora

Our Coverage of the War in Ukraine

News and Analysis

Ukraine’s largest children’s hospital was destroyed by a Russian missile , shaking Kyiv with images of bloodied and injured children.

With President Biden’s future unclear and Donald Trump’s support uncertain, Ukrainian leaders are straining to stay neutral as the U.S. presidential race intensifies .

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit with President Vladimir Putin of Russia  signals the Indian leader’s determination to stick to his own diplomatic path even as the West continues to isolate Moscow.

Motorcycles and Mayhem: In the latest tactic for storming trenches, Russians use motorcycles and dune buggies  to speed across open space, often into a hail of gunfire.

Escaping the Russian Army: Facing grim job prospects, a young Nepali signed up to join Russia’s military, which sent him to fight in Ukraine. His ordeal turned into a tale worthy of Hollywood .

Evading Conscription: Fearful of a one-way ticket to bloody trench warfare, some Ukrainian men are spending their days holed up at home  to avoid draft officers who roam the streets.

How We Verify Our Reporting

Our team of visual journalists analyzes satellite images, photographs , videos and radio transmissions  to independently confirm troop movements and other details.

We monitor and authenticate reports on social media, corroborating these with eyewitness accounts and interviews. Read more about our reporting efforts .

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12 Affordable Vacations for Couples on a Budget

From the U.S. to Mexico, these getaways come at a price you'll both love.

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Sharing experiences as a couple can make travel more enjoyable, whether it’s your first trip together, a honeymoon, or a babymoon. Sometimes, however, the motivation is there, but the budget doesn't allow for a lavish getaway.

With some strategic planning and calculations, it’s possible to create an affordable vacation. You might look for off-season or less popular destinations, or choose cities known for great free attractions. Shop for the best airfares on sites like Hopper or Skyscanner . It also pays to be flexible on timing or travel days.

Travel experts advise putting together a budget and itinerary to estimate costs for hotels, activities, transportation, food, and other purchases. They also suggest booking a hotel with a kitchen, so you can prepare some of your own meals instead of dining out. Consider all-inclusive hotels, too, but only after evaluating what is actually included and how much you would take advantage of the amenities.

Recognizing that “affordability” is a relative term, we’ve aimed for places in North America where couples can have an enjoyable vacation while staying within the budget they create for themselves. We looked for free or low-cost activities and took into account the availability of less costly lodging. With that in mind, here are some of the most affordable vacations for couples.

Mazatlán, Mexico

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Mazatlán offers golden beaches, delicious restaurants, vibrant nightlife, history, a 13-mile seaside promenade, reasonable prices, and lots to do at little or no cost. In the downtown historic district, couples can explore the romantic old square of Plaza Machado, stroll along cobblestone streets, and stop for a drink or ice cream. You could spend an entire day along the Malecón de Mazatlán, browsing souvenir stands, watching cliff divers, or grabbing a snack from one of the vendors. Rooms at the all-inclusive Pueblo Bonito Mazatlán Beach Resort start at less than $200 a night. Plus, guests can access the restaurants and amenities at the upscale Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay Resort & Spa , including a 16,500-square-foot wellness facility with hydrotherapy pools, steam rooms, spa treatments (available at an additional cost), and fitness classes.

New York City

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You might be surprised to find New York City on a list of affordable vacations, but once you get to the Big Apple, there’s so much to do without spending a dime . While the city has begun cracking down on Airbnbs , you can still find vacation rentals and hotels for around $200 a night. Meals out don't have to be expensive, either. Enjoy an iconic (and affordable) New York bagel breakfast, grab a slice of pizza, or try a hot dog from one of the street stands. Many of NYC’s museums are free or accept a donation for visiting. Couples can also take the subway to Long Island City’s Gantry Plaza State Park , which offers gorgeous views of the NYC skyline, or ride the Roosevelt Island Tramway (about $3 each way) for an aerial view of the city.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Courtesy of The Twin Fin

If you have your heart set on a vacation in Hawaii, you can manage to arrange one within a limited budget, especially with the help of some airline miles or points . Spending time on the beach and hiking are among the free things to do in Honolulu, as is touring the Pearl Harbor National Memorial and the USS Arizona Memorial. Oahu's bus system is an inexpensive and efficient way to explore the island beyond the state capital. Food is a fun part of travel, so look for farmers markets and sample saimin (noodle soup), poke, and shave ice at local spots. Rooms at The Twin Fin , a surf-inspired beachfront hotel, start at $199, and nightly entertainment includes DJs, live music, stargazing, and more.

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

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Located in northwest Idaho, on the northern shore of Lake Coeur d’Alene, this year-round destination is ideal for couples who love the outdoors. Hiking, biking, boating, and visiting wineries and breweries are among the top things to do, in addition to enjoying the gorgeous scenery. Explore the downtown area near the waterfront, browse the boutiques, and stop for a bite at one of the restaurants. Places to stay include hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, and campgrounds. The Coeur d’Alene Resort , known for daily scenic cruises plus sunset and dinner sailings, offers rooms starting at around $199.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

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Sandy shores, warm Gulf of Mexico waters, great food, and lively nightlife make the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area an economical romantic getaway. Take a ride on the Ferris wheel or head to The Track Family Fun Park to drive a go-kart, ride a roller coaster, and play some mini golf. You can hop on the Mobile Bay Ferry for less than $10 to enjoy the scenic bay. Choose from more than 200 restaurants , and try the local seafood that includes shrimp, oysters, crab, and snapper. Hotels, resorts, bed-and-breakfasts, and campsites offer many affordable lodging options .

Fort Worth, Texas

Courtesy of Visit Fort Worth

Around a half-hour drive from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, Fort Worth is a fast-growing city known for its Western culture and cowboy legacy, now preserved in the Stockyards National Historic District . Explore the streets that once were home to the cattle trade, and learn about the area’s past with a walking tour . Don't miss the cattle drive when the Fort Worth Herd of longhorns passes by with drovers who are available to answer questions. Shops, saloons, restaurants, rodeo events at Cowtown Coliseum , and music and dancing at famed Billy Bob's Texas provide plenty to see and do. Stay at the Kimpton Harper Hotel for under $200 a night, and check out the upscale Hotel Drover, Autograph Collection on Mule Alley for a beverage in the outdoor Backyard lounge.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

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If beautiful beaches , great food, and history are what you're after, consider visiting Puerto Rico — no passport needed. Instead of an expensive resort, look into locally owned boutique hotels or glamping sites. Taxis and Uber are available to get you around the San Juan area, so you don't have to spend on a rental car.

In Old San Juan, you can visit 16th-century fortresses, watch street performers along the Paseo de la Princesa promenade, and go salsa dancing at cocktail bars like La Factoría . Visit museums with low admission fees like Museo de Las Americas , or head to the nearby Santurce neighborhood to see dazzling street art for free. Less than an hour's drive from the city, El Yunque National Forest is the only tropical rain forest in the U.S. National Forest System. Hike to a waterfall and enjoy a picnic lunch in the beautiful surroundings.

Palm Springs, California

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The desert of Greater Palm Springs is a year-round destination, though hot summers often have visitors heading for pools or air-conditioned venues. No problem, there are plenty of both, plus other things to do without spending a lot. Visit art galleries along Palm Canyon Drive in the city of Palm Springs, take a self-guided tour of the midcentury architecture or celebrity homes, and hike past rock formations and palm trees on the trails in Indian Canyons . The Palm Springs area has many budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals. About an hour's drive away, Joshua Tree National Park features stunning rock formations, native vegetation, cacti, and romantic stargazing opportunities.

St. Petersburg and Clearwater, Florida

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Known for its white-sand beaches and warm waters, this area is a great choice for an affordable vacation, especially if the goal is sunshine, swimming, and water sports. There’s plenty to experience after sunset as well, from restaurants to clubs to dive bars. Stroll around town to view the more than 600 murals or join a street art tour. The Dalí Museum is set in a unique building on the downtown St. Petersburg waterfront and offers discounted tickets on Thursdays after 5 p.m. And with a variety of places to stay , including B&Bs, the area has lodging options for almost any budget.

Washington, D.C.

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The nation’s capital , with its many free monuments and museums, can be an affordable destination. The Smithsonian museums are free to visit, and there’s something for every couple's interest, from space travel and technology to art and natural history. Just remember to apply for timed entry passes (required for the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of African American History and Culture) in advance. Touring the White House is also free, but you'll need to request a reservation at least 21 days in advance. The public transit system, including its easy-to-navigate Metro, offers a convenient, low-cost way to get around. For an affordable meal, head to a fast-casual spot like chef José Andrés' vegetarian restaurant Beefsteak or try the famous chili half-smoke at historic chain Ben's Chili Bowl . Hotels in the capital might be pricey, but staying in nearby Alexandria, Virginia , can save you some money and allow you to explore another charming city.

Toronto, Canada

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This pedestrian-friendly city is known for its diversity, reflected in its vibrant culture and food scene. Stroll down the cobblestone streets of the Distillery District , which features art galleries, restaurants, and boutiques housed in restored industrial buildings, grab a bite to eat at St. Lawrence Market , or check out Stackt , a shipping container market with pop-up shops, a microbrewery, and special events. Take advantage of the extensive public transportation network or get around on two wheels with Bike Share . You can easily find a hotel room for less than $200 a night, especially if you visit outside of the busy summer season.

Yosemite National Park, California

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Home to granite cliffs, waterfalls, giant sequoias, and incredible wildlife, Yosemite is one of the most beautiful national parks in the U.S. The budget-friendly vacation destination is a paradise for hikers and photographers, and many trails stay open in the winter. Save on dining and enjoy picnic lunches with views of Yosemite’s wonders. Affordable lodging ranges from camping to cabins, either inside the park or nearby. Even if you don’t stay at the classic Ahwahnee hotel, be sure to stop in to see the decor, art, and architecture of this historic property.

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Four great day trips from Moscow

Dec 18, 2018 • 5 min read

The city of Tula with its landmark 16th-century kremlin makes for a great day trip from Moscow © Soloviev Andrey / Shutterstock

Moscow has enough attractions to keep any traveller busy for a couple of weeks, but it would be a shame not to get out of the city and explore its environs, if only for a day. Whether you travel by car or public transport, you can explore a mix of quirky museums, artistic retreats, medieval fortresses and 19th-century architecture in bucolic surroundings.

Tula and Yasnaya Polyana

The home to one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in Russia, Tula makes a perfect destination for a day trip. The city itself was founded in the latter half of the 14th century, but its famous landmark – a red-brick fortress or ‘kremlin’ – was built in the early 16th century to defend Russia against the Tatars. You can take a tour of the recently renovated kremlin walls or visit one of its small museums devoted to local specialities like pryanik (gingerbread) or the samovar . Right outside the kremlin walls is the new Kazanskaya embankment, designed by the Wowhaus architecture firm.

Tula has much more to offer: the Oktava creative cluster at the still-functioning eponymous microphone factory, with its Machine Tool Museum and contemporary art exhibitions; newly pedestrianised Metallistov St, lined with impressive 18th- and 19th-century merchant mansions; and the Fine Arts Museum with a decent collection of Russian avant-garde, including Kazimir Malevich and Wassily Kandinsky.

Just a short drive away is  Yasnaya Polyana , the estate-museum of Russia’s most famous writer Leo Tolstoy. The museum tries to keep everything exactly as it was in 1910, the year of the writer’s death. Book ahead to visit the mansion where Tolstoy penned two of his best-known works, War and Peace and Anna Karenina .

Getting there: Catch a speed train to Tula from Moscow ’s Kursk station (Kursky vokzal); the fastest ones take just under two hours. Yasnaya Polyana is a 20- to 30-minute taxi ride from the centre of Tula.

Tarusa and Polenovo

Nicknamed ‘the Russian Barbizon’, Tarusa has always attracted the creative intelligentsia. Founded in the 13th century as a defence fort on the Oka River, in the early 20th century the town became a popular dacha (summer cottage) destination for Muscovites. Tarusa is centred around the Cathedral Square; don’t miss its art gallery, famous for a collection of paintings by avant-garde artist Edward Steinberg. Another must-see is the Tsvetaev family house, where prominent 20th-century poet Marina Tsvetaeva used to spend a lot of time. Wander around the centre full of splendid 19th-century buildings, imagining yourself a character in one of Chekhov’s plays, and climb the hill to see the 17th-century Resurrection Church, Tarusa’s oldest building; just below is a chapel with a sacred spring.

The estate-museum of Polenovo  is located on the opposite bank of the Oka River. Prominent artist Vasily Polenov spent a long time looking for a place to build his home and finally chose this spot to settle down with his family at the end of the 19th century. All the buildings on the estate were designed by Polenov himself, as well as the Holy Trinity Church in the nearby village of Bekhovo. The museum here has always been run by the artist’s descendants; there’s a great collection of paintings by Polenov himself, his friends and family members.

Getting there: Take a speed train from Kursk station to Serpukhov, from where you can catch a bus or taxi to Tarusa. To reach Polenovo in summer, get a speedboat across the river. In winter, go back to Serpukhov, take a Moscow–Tula train to Tarusskaya station and then catch a taxi.

Rostov-Veliky

It’s not clear when exactly Rostov-Veliky – often referred to as ‘the pearl in the Golden Ring’ – was founded, but it was probably as early as the 9th century. This city on the banks of Lake Nero played a significant role in Russian history, but today it’s a small town called Veliky (Great) – if only not to confuse it with its much larger namesake in the south, Rostov-on-Don.

The main attraction of Rostov is its magnificent kremlin , so called because it resembles a fortress even though its walls serve a purely decorative purpose. Built in the second half of the 17th century by a local metropolitan, today the kremlin is a museum with a large collection of icons and religious artefacts, as well as enamel miniatures (a local artistic speciality). Don’t miss the Church of Odigitria, built in the style of Moscow baroque, and the Assumption Cathedral, located right under the kremlin walls. There are 15 bells in its belfry, including Sysoy, one of the largest in Europe. Outside the kremlin walls, you’ll find several excellent restaurants and cafes serving traditional Russian cuisine.

The Spaso-Yakovlevsky Monastery is definitely worth the 15-minute walk from the kremlin. Founded in the turbulent 14th century, it’s surrounded by high stone walls with towers, which provide magnificent views of Lake Nero.

Getting there: From Moscow’s Yaroslav station (Yaroslavsky vokzal), board an express train to Yaroslavl and get off at Rostov-Veliky. The fastest trains take about two and a half hours.

Perhaps the most interesting small town in the Moscow region and another popular day-trip destination for Muscovites, Kolomna is full of cute little churches and 19th-century mansions in excellent condition. The famous 18th-century architect Matvey Kazakov, an expert of pseudo-Gothic style, worked on a number of buildings in Kolomna. There’s a well-preserved 16th-century kremlin with several intact towers and two monasteries within its walls.

A quirky museum, Artkommunalka  is devoted to the life in a Soviet-era communal apartment, supposedly frequented by the legendary writer and dissident Venedikt Yerofeyev. The museum also has an interesting collection of contemporary art. If you’re not into art, local enthusiasts have revived two food specialities – pastila (similar to marshmallow) and kalach (a type of bread) – and opened two small museums devoted to each one. Theatrical performances take place here, and there are cafes where you can sample the products.

Getting there: Catch a train from Moscow’s Kazan station (Kazansky vokzal); the fastest one takes just under two hours.

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Stronger ties between India and Russia will benefit us: PM Modi in Moscow

Modi said he is looking forward to deepening bilateral partnership in futuristic areas and that stronger ties between india and russia will "greatly benefit our people''.

Moscow: Prime Minister Narendra Modi receives a guard of honour upon his arrival at the airport, in Moscow, Russia, Monday, July 8, 2024. (PTI Photo)

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'West Watching With Jealousy': Kremlin On PM Modi's Russia Visit

This will be pm modi's first visit to russia in nearly five years..

The Kremlin spokesman said the agenda for the visit, which begins on Monday, will be extensive. (File)

Russia is expecting a "very important and full-fledged visit" by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Moscow for summit-level talks with President Vladimir Putin, with the Kremlin saying the West was watching the trip with "jealousy".

Prime Minister Modi will be in Moscow from July 8 to 9 at the invitation of President Putin for the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit. It will be PM Modi's first visit to Russia since its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

The two leaders will review the entire range of multifaceted relations between the two countries and exchange views on contemporary regional and global issues of mutual interest, the Ministry of External Affairs said in New Delhi on Thursday while announcing the high-level visit starting on Monday.

The programme of Prime Minister Modi in Moscow will be extensive and the two leaders will be able to have informal talks, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in an interview with Russia's state-run VGTRK television channel on Saturday.

“Obviously, the agenda will be extensive, if not to say overbusy. It will be an official visit, and we hope that the heads will be able to talk in an informal way as well,” he said.

Mr Peskov said that Russian-Indian relations are at the level of strategic partnership. He said that there would be both one-on-one talks in the Kremlin and those involving delegations.

“We are expecting a very important and full-fledged visit, which is so crucial for Russian-Indian relations,” he was quoted as saying by the official Tass news agency.

Mr Peskov also emphasised that the West is closely and jealously watching Prime Minister Modi's upcoming visit to Russia.

“They are jealous — that means they are closely monitoring it. Their close monitoring means they attach great importance to it. And they are not mistaken, there is something to attach great importance to,” Mr Peskov said in response to a question about the jealous attitude of Western politicians towards PM Modi's visit to Russia, the Tass report said.

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, PM Modi has held several telephonic conversations with Mr Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, stressing the importance of ending the war that has impacted the global economy.

In reflection of its strong friendship with Russia, India has not yet condemned Moscow's invasion of Ukraine and it has been maintaining that the conflict must be resolved through diplomacy and dialogue.

India's import of discounted Russian crude oil has also gone up significantly notwithstanding the G7 price cap and increasing disquiet over the procurement in many Western capitals.

It will be PM Modi's first visit to Russia in nearly five years. His last visit to Russia was in 2019 when he attended an economic conclave in the Far East city of Vladivostok.

The annual summit between the Prime Minister of India and the president of Russia is the highest institutional dialogue mechanism in the strategic partnership between the two countries.

So far, 21 annual summits have taken place alternately in India and Russia.

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The last annual summit was held on December 6, 2021, in New Delhi when Mr Putin visited India. 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Orban’s Moscow trip was flagged to NATO in advance, Stoltenberg says

BRUSSELS (Reuters) – NATO was informed of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s trip to Moscow for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in advance, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said on Friday.

Orban is travelling in his capacity as Hungary’s prime minister and will not represent NATO, of which Hungary is a member, Stoltenberg said.

Speaking at a news conference, Stoltenberg said Russia so far has not significantly changed its stance on the war in Ukraine and there were “no signs Putin was ready to negotiate for peace”.

“It is for Ukraine to decide what are acceptable conditions for peace talks and any negotiated solution,” he said.

(Reporting by Andrew Gray, writing by Tassilo Hummel; editing by Jason Neely and Angus MacSwan)

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Ukraine war latest: Chinese troops arrive in Belarus - as countries launch military drills on Polish border

In the wake of Moscow's deadliest airstrikes in Ukraine for months, China and Belarus have started joint military exercises near the Polish border - all on the eve of a NATO summit in Washington.

Tuesday 9 July 2024 08:59, UK

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• China and Belarus launch joint military drills near Polish border on eve of NATO summit
• Day of mourning follows Russian attack on Kyiv children's hospital and four other cities, killing 41 and injuring 150
• Russia used 'new and noteworthy' tactic in deadly wave of missile strikes
• Ukraine attacks several Russian regions with dozens of drones
• NATO leaders to be warned of North Korean threat to Europe
• Deborah Haynes analysis: Russia sending a message to NATO
• Your questions answered: Has the West been honest about Ukraine's failures? | Is Kyiv next?
• Live reporting by Brad Young

Russia's deadliest wave of missile strikes in months deployed a "new and noteworthy tactic" to maximise damage, according to war analysts.

Its military launched cruise missiles at extremely low altitudes, giving air defence systems no time to respond before they were within close range of their targets, said the Institute for the Study of War.

Former Ukrainian air forces spokesperson Colonel Yuriy Ihnat said some of the rockets flew at just 50 metres above the ground.

"Russian forces may have innovated their tactics and/or technology somewhat to inflict maximum damage on Ukrainian infrastructure," the ISW said.

"Russia has consistently adapted the strike packages it uses against Ukraine to take advantage of Ukraine's air defence shortages, and the 8 July strikes represent a new and adapted strike package that Ukraine will need to learn to respond to with requisite levels of Western-provided air defence systems."

Kyiv is observing a day of mourning after devastating Russian missile strikes killed 41 people and injured more than 150 others across Ukraine yesterday.

Ukraine's largest children's hospital, Okhmatdyt, was hit in the capital, causing debris to fall into heart patients' open chests in the middle of surgery, said health minister Viktor Liashko.

Young cancer patients had their beds wheeled into parks and onto the streets to continue treatment.

"Among the victims were Ukraine's sickest children," said Volker Turk, the UN human rights commissioner. 

The bombardment struck seven of the city's ten districts, killing at least seven people including two hospital staff members.

Rescuers searched for victims under the rubble of a partially collapsed, two-story cancer wing of the facility overnight.

They formed a line, passing bricks and other debris to each other as they sifted through rubble.

The intensive care unit, operating theatres and oncology departments all were damaged, officials said. 

Kyiv city has lowered its flags and prohibited entertainment events today.

It was just one of five cities attacked in Russia's daylight barrage, which saw 40 missiles kill civilians across the country, according to Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Russia denied attacking the hospital and said the strikes hit military targets.

Back in Russia, and Vladimir Putin has been showing Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi around his suburban residence ahead of official talks today.

The Russian president offered Mr Modi tea, berries and sweets and took him on a tour of the grounds in a motorised cart yesterday.

The pair also visited the residence's stable and watched a show with performing horses.

But far more serious matters will be the subject of conversations between the leaders today, not least securing the discharge of Indian citizens who were "misled" into fighting in the Ukraine war.

A top Indian official said last week that fixing India's trade imbalance with Russia would also be top of Mr Modi's priorities.

Mr Modi is expected to seek to continue close relations with Russia, a major defence supplier for India.

India has neither condemned nor condoned Russia's invasion and has instead called for negotiations to end the war.

NATO leaders will be warned of the distinct threat North Korea poses to Europe by deepening military ties with Russia when its leaders meet in Washington tomorrow.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol will warn that Moscow must choose between the two Koreas.

Seoul will decide on weapons support for Ukraine based on how a new military pact between Moscow and Pyongyang plays out, he said.

"Military co-operation between Russia and North Korea poses a distinct threat and grave challenge to the peace and security on the Korean peninsula and in Europe," Mr Yoon said.

"North Korea is clearly a menace to the international society.

"I hope that Russia will sensibly decide which side - the South or the North - is more important and necessary for its own interests."

He added: "The future of ROK-Russia relations depends entirely on Russia's actions," referring to South Korea by its official name, the Republic of Korea.

Russia said it "fully disagreed" with Mr Yoon's comments calling on it to choose between North and South Korea.

Moscow supports building good relations with its neighbours but South Korea has imposed sanctions on Russia while North Korea is a partner, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

Russia has previously called South Korea "the most friendly among unfriendly countries", with Vladimir Putin saying it would be making "a big mistake" if it decided to supply arms to Ukraine.

Just days into his premiership, Sir Keir Starmer is heading to the US for a meeting with NATO leaders.

We take a look at why he is taking the trip and what might happen when he is there.

Why is the prime minister going to Washington?

NATO - or the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation - regularly holds meetings where its 32 member countries, 30 from Europe and two in North America, come together to discuss the issues they are facing in the world.

This meeting in Washington is slightly different, however, as it is the 75th anniversary of the founding of the defensive alliance, which came to fruition in the aftermath of the Second World War.

The US Department of State said the meeting would celebrate "the most successful and enduring alliance in history and set the course for the Alliance's evolution to meet future challenges".

What are the issues being discussed?

Top of the agenda will be the ongoing war in Ukraine and the West's support for Kyiv, with the grim framing of the latest Russian attack - this time on a children's hospital, killing at least 41 people.

Ukrainian representatives will attend the meeting for a joint council with NATO, and further commitments to the cause from members are expected to be made.

Read more on the summit here...

China and Belarus have started joint military exercises just a few miles from the Polish border.

The manoeuvres, codenamed Falcon Assault, will last until 19 July and are taking place at a training ground near the city of Brest, the Belarusian defence ministry said.

The drills are taking place on the eve of a NATO summit in Washington, where its 32 member countries - including Poland - will meet to discuss further military and financial support for Ukraine.

Remember, Belarus - perhaps Russia's closest ally - allowed Moscow to use its territory as one of the launchpads for its of Ukraine in 2022.

"Events taking place in the world are alarming, the situation is uneasy, therefore we are going to practice new forms and methods of performing tactical tasks," said Major General Vadim Denisenko, chief of Belarusian special operations command.

As part of the "anti-terrorist exercises", Chinese and Belarusian military personnel will work out issues of night landing, overcoming water barriers, and conducting operations in a populated area, the Belarusian defence ministry said.

Chinese troops could be seen disembarking from a plane and offloading equipment in photos it posted on Telegram.

The Chinese defence ministry said Belarus held a "a grand welcome ceremony" for the Chinese troops on Thursday.

"The joint training aims to enhance the coordination capabilities of the participating troops, and deepen practical cooperation between the two armies," the ministry said

It was not clear how many troops were involved in the drills.

Ukraine launched tens of drone attacks on several Russian regions overnight, according to local officials.

One person was killed, while two power substations and an oil depot caught fire.

Russia says its air defence systems destroyed 38 drones, including 21 over the southern region of Rostov and seven over Kursk, both of which border Ukraine.

The deadliest attack was in the Belgorod region, also bordering Ukraine, where a man died, two people were injured and several homes were damaged, its governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said.

Explosions were also heard in the town of Kalach-on-the-Don in the southern region of Volgograd, according to the Baza Telegram channel.

Firefighters are still battling the blaze at an oil depot in Volgograd, but the power sub-stations were no longer in flames, said regional governor Andrei Bocharov.

"There is no threat to residential buildings," he added.

The Russian defence ministry did not list Volgograd among the regions where drones had been destroyed.

Russian officials rarely disclose the full extent of damage inflicted by Ukrainian attacks. Sky News cannot independently verify these battlefield reports.

The attacks come in the wake of Russia's deadliest wave of airstrikes in months, killing 41 Ukrainian civilians and hitting the main children's hospital in Kyiv in broad daylight. 

Welcome back to our live coverage of the war in Ukraine, as the UN Security Council prepares to meet in the wake of devastating Russian strikes.

We'll be bringing you updates and analysis throughout the day - but first, here's a recap of the key developments over the course of the last 24 hours.

• At least 41 civilians were killed in a wave of Russian strikes across Ukraine;
• A children's hospital was among the sites hit, collapsing a wing treating young cancer patients;
• World leaders and senior politicians expressed outrage, including Keir Starmer and Foreign Secretary David Lammy;
• Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi began a two-day visit to Russia - his first since the invasion began.

Ukrainian attack drones have caused a fire at an oil depot and power substation in Russia's Volgograd, the local governor has confirmed.

Vasily Golubev, said Ukraine launched "tens" of drones into the southern region bordering Ukraine.

"As a result of an air attack in the Rodionovo-Nesvetaysky district, two transformers caught fire at a power substation," Mr Golubev said, adding air defence systems destroyed tens of drones.

Joe Biden has condemned Russia's deadliest wave of strikes in months as a "horrific reminder of Russia's brutality".

He vowed to show Volodymyr Zelenskyy that America's support was "unshakeable" at a NATO summit tomorrow.

The alliance will announce "new measures to strengthen Ukraine's air defences", he said.

"It is critical that the world continues to stand with Ukraine at this important moment and that we not ignore Russian aggression."

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