european heritage travel

World Heritage Journeys of Europe

Go deeper into European culture and history and get inspired for your next trip through UNESCO’s World Heritage sites in the European Union.

Together with National Geographic and co-funded by the European Union, the World Heritage Journeys of Europe let you discover the most stunning, mysterious, and beautiful heritage sites in Europe. From the 350 World Heritage Sites across the European Union, we handpicked 34 for you to explore in-depth. Immerse yourself in the places that embody Europe’s ancient history, let yourself flow through romantic moments and legends from the European past, feel like a true royal and visit castles, gardens, and palaces of Europe’s heritage, or go even deeper and find out what life and culture awaits you in the hidden underground depths of Europe.

We encourage you to travel differently, and travel deeper. Start exploring now!

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Supported by the European Union, World Heritage Journeys showcases UNESCO recognised outstanding cultural heritage in a travel platform that promotes sustainable tourism development across Europe.

The World Heritage Journeys of the European Union is a project implemented in partnership with National Geographic, and brings together 34 World Heritage sites through four different thematic itineraries; Royal Europe , Ancient Europe , Underground Europe and Romantic Europe .

Each journey is intended to help travellers develop a greater understanding of  Outstanding Universal Value and cultural heritage at large. Cultural heritage is the primary focus for this initiative, combining both built heritage, with historic and existing intangible cultural heritage expressed through the community’s living cultural values.

By including both iconic and lesser-known sites, these journeys enable people to see Europe’s World Heritage sites from a new and exciting perspective and to 'travel differently, travel deeper' within the European Union.

A travel  web platform has been developed showcasing the different itineraries and giving detailed information on what to discover on the sites and their surroundings, as well as activities and attractions - that could be useful to plan for a trip.

Each of the 34 participating World Heritage sites are committed to the development of sustainable and high-quality experiences that will spur investment in culture and community-centred creative industries. 

Learn more: visitworldheritage.com

Art & Culture Travel Blog

25 beautiful unesco world heritage sites in europe.

• Tea Gudek Šnajdar
• Cultural Tourism

With its long cultural history, Europe is home to many beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Sites. From prehistoric cave art, medieval cathedrals, and royal castles to the historical city centres, you’ll find them all over Europe. In this blog post, I selected 25 beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Europe worth visiting.

World heritage sites are legally protected cultural or natural landmarks of extraordinary significance by the international convention provided by UNESCO . Because of its rich history marked by cultural sites, architecture, public art, urban areas and fascinating landmarks, you’ll find numerous fantastic UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Europe.

⤷ Read more : Cultural tourism explained – How to be a cultural tourist

1 – Mont-Saint-Michel and its Bay, France

Mont-Saint-Michele is a tidal island located in the Normandy region of France . It was a home to the abbey, established in the 8th century. However, because of its unique location, the island was also used as a prison in history. It could be reached by land during the low tide. However, with the tide change, it’s also surrounded by water at certain times. The difference between the low and high tide is around 14 metres (46 feet). Mont-Saint-Michel was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.

2 – Banks of the Danube, Budapest, Hungary

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, has an important place on a list of the most beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Europe. Beautiful buildings and urban complexes were built on the Danube River banks throughout the centuries. The Roman city of Aquincum, the Buda Castle and the Parliament building are among some of the most fascinating landmarks there.

3 – Vatican City

Vatican may be one of the world’s smallest countries, but there is so much to see there. It’s home to well-known sites like the Saint Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. Being such an important place for Christianity, it’s where centuries of European art and culture are cherished. Many famous artists, such as Michelangelo, Bramante, Raphael or Bernini, worked on its architecture, making it a masterpiece deserving its place on the list of the most fascinating European UNESCO sites.

⤷ Read more : What to see in Vatican City

4 – Old Bridge Area of the Old City of Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

The Mostar Old Bridge is the rebuilt bridge made in the 16th century Ottoman Empire. It’s located in the city centre, connecting two areas of Mostar. It’s one of the best examples of Islamic architecture in the Balkans. The area around it is home to numerous old Ottoman houses and edifices, witnessing a fascinating history of this town.

5 – Seville Cathedral, Spain

Together with the Seville Alcázar and Archivo de Indias, Seville Cathedral became the UNESCO protected area in that Spanish town in 1987. Completed in the early 16th century, with its five naves, Seville Cathedral is the largest Gothic building in Europe. The cathedral is also the burial place of Christopher Columbus.

⤷ Read more : 20 Most iconic churches in Europe

6 – Antoni Gaudí’s architecture in Barcelona, Spain

One of my favourite UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Europe is seven works made by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí in and around Barcelona . They include Park Güell, Palacio Güell, Casa Mila, Casa Vicens, Nativity façade and Crypt of Sagrada Família , Casa Batlló and Crypt in Colonia Güell. Antoni Gaudí has left such a strong influence on Barcelona’s architecture it’s no wonder that it was recognised by UNESCO, as well.

⤷ Read more : Exploring Gaudí’s architecture in Barcelona

7 – Tower of London, UK

The Tower of London is one of the most famous landmarks in the UK’s capital. It’s also one of the most well-known medieval fortresses. There is so much history, exciting stories and fascinating traditions linked to it. Because it’s a typical example of the Norman military architecture, the symbol of British royalty, and its historical and cultural significance, the Tower of London found its place on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1988.

⤷ Read more : Tower of London – its history, highlights and a private tour

8 – Stonehenge, UK

Stonehenge is one of the most famous Prehistoric monuments in Europe, built at some point between 3000 BC and 2000 BC. It consists of two circles of massive stones, some four metres (13 feet) high. The researchers are still determining how it was made and for what purpose.

⤷ Read more : Afternoon Tea Tradition – Everything you should know about it

9 – Banks of the Seine, Paris, France

The banks of the River Seine witnessed Paris ‘s development. Some of its most fascinating buildings are located there, like the Notre Dame Cathedral, Saint Chapelle, Grand and Petite Palace, the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower. It’s also one of the most interesting urbanism exampled with the many bridges crossing the Seine River and Haussmann’s boulevards, squares and typical buildings telling the story of the Paris urban development.

10 – Palace and Park of Versailles, France

Built in the 17th and 18th centuries, the Versailles Palace and its vast gardens soon became the model for Royal European palaces. It was the seat of French kings from Louis XIV to Louis XVI. Many famous architects, sculptors and painters worked on its construction, leaving one of the most famous landmarks in Europe. With around 15 million annual visitors, it’s one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world.

⤷ Read more : Ille-de-France travel diary

11 – Palace and Park of Fontainebleau, France

The Fontainebleau Palace is located some 55 kilometres (34 miles) southeast of Paris. Being home to French monarchs since the 12th century, it’s filled with history. Add to that it’s the birthplace of the Renaissance style in France and you have a great destination to visit for all the cultural tourists. It’s been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1981.

⤷ Read more : A trip from Paris – Fontainebleau Palace

12 – Historic centre of Rome, Italy

The City of Rome was one of the first cradles of European civilisation. Its entire historic centre is filled with art, culture and numerous fascinating buildings telling the history of that beautiful city. This fantastic European UNESCO World Heritage Site includes landmarks such as the Roman Forum, the Pantheon, Trajan’s Column, the Mausoleum of Augustus, and many more.

⤷ Read more : My travel diary – Four days in Rome

13 – Archaeological area of Pompeii, Italy

Together with Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata, Pompeii is one of Europe’s most special UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Vesuvius eruption in 79 AD affected these areas. The huge tragedy left some of the best places to explore the Roman civilisation. The area has been archaeologically excavated since, making it to the UNESCO list in 1997.

⤷ Read more : 20 Archaeological sites you have to visit in Europe

14 – Historic centre of Florence, Italy

Florence is the capital of the Italian Renaissance and home to numerous fantastic masterpieces of architecture. So many talented artists like Dante Alighieri, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo or Filippo Brunelleschi lived and worked there. Its museums and churches are treasuring world-class artworks. One of the most renowned buildings there is Florence Cathedral. Its construction started in 1296 in the Gothic style and was finished 150 years later. It’s the most famous today because of its dome, designed by a renowned Renaissance architect, Filippo Brunelleschi. It was an architectural masterpiece and, still, the largest brick dome ever built.

⤷ Read more : 10 Cultural spots to visit in Florence

15 – Piazza del Duomo, Pisa, Italy

The four medieval monuments on Piazza del Duomo in Pisa made it to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1987. Built between the 11th and 14th centuries, the Pisa Cathedral, its Baptistery, the Campanile, also known as the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the Cemetery greatly influenced the later architecture.

16 – Town of Bamberg, Germany

Located in the southern part of Germany, Bamberg was an important medieval town. The well-preserved Bamberg Cathedral, its historic centre and many medieval houses witness its prosperous history. The city layout still shows its medieval appearance. The Town of Bamberg has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993.

17 – Museum Island, Berlin, Germany

Museum Island in Berlin is one of Europe’s most fascinating cultural sites. It comprises five world-class museums: Altes Museums, Neues Museum, Alte Nationalgalerie, Bode Museum and Pergamon Museum. The whole complex is regarded as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. The island dedicated to art and culture is one of the most visited places in Berlin.

⤷ Read more : Exploring Museum Island Berlin

18 – The Cathedral of Saint James in Šibenik, Croatia

The Saint James Cathedral in Šibenik is one of the most beautiful buildings in Croatia. Built for around one hundred years (1431-1535), it shows architectural elements of Gothic and Renaissance styles. Because of a special construction system, it’s a unique building made entirely from stone.

⤷ Read more : Best places to visit in Croatia

19 – Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens, Vienna

Schönbrunn Palace is one of the most beautiful castles in Europe . Located in Vienna, it was the seat of the Habsburg emperors from the 18th century until 1918. The splendid palace is home to 1441 rooms. Because of its fantastic architecture, numerous statues, works of applied art and craft and beautiful gardens, it found its place on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list in 1996.

20 – Old City of Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik, located in the south of Croatia , has a fascinating history. It was an independent state, the Republic of Ragusa, for a long time, which consisted of the old town of Dubrovnik and its surroundings. The Republic was quite progressive, and they adopted some modern laws quite early. Medical service was introduced in 1301, and the city pharmacy (still operating today) was established in 1317. The slave trade was abolished in 1418. This was also when Dubrovnik’s flag was created – a white flag with the Latin word ‘Libertas’ (‘Freedom’). Dubrovnik is famous for its massive fortification walls and an intact historic centre today.

⤷ Read more : Two days in Dubrovnik

21 – La Lonja de la Seda, Valenica

Lonja de la Seda is one of the most beautiful buildings in Valencia, built in the Valencian Gothic style. Its name could be translated as the Silk Exchange. It was a place where merchants could meet and sell their goods. However, it was also home to one of the first marine merchant tribunals in Spain.

The building is a unique example of secular Valencian Gothic architecture. Its main hall, The Contract Hall (Sala de Contratacion), is the most fascinating. Its elegant twisted columns witness this town’s importance during the 15th century.

⤷ Read more : 10 Things to do in Valencia for cultural tourists

22 – Studenica Monastery, Serbia

Studenica Monastery is the largest and one of the most important monasteries in Serbia . With its fantastic architecture and outstanding location in the middle of intact nature, it looks like a place out of this world. Besides its beautiful architecture, Studenica Monastery is also home to some fantastic medieval frescoes, by its artistic value unique in European art history. That was also recognised by UNESCO, which put it on its list of World Heritage Sites in 1986.

⤷ Read more : Studenica Monastery in Serbia

23 – Historic centre of Bruges, Belgium

The charming Belgian town of Bruges is one of the rare European cities that looks like it hasn’t changed at all throughout history. It experienced its Golden Age during the 15th century as a significant financial, art and cultural centre. Many buildings from that time can still be seen in the city. Because of its intact medieval town centre, Bruges became one of the most beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2000.

⤷ Read more : Two days in Bruges – Exploring Bruges’ Golden Age

24 – Historic centre of Kraków, Poland

Founded in the 13th century, Kraków used to be the capital of Poland. This charming town kept its medieval appearance, with buildings like the Royal Wawel Castle, 14th-century fortifications, Kazimierz, and its numerous synagogues witness its history. Krakow Cathedral is a Gothic building where Polish kings were buried. Because of its significance, Krakow’s historic centre has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1978.

25 – Amsterdam Canals, the Netherlands

One of the first things that comes to mind when thinking of Amsterdam is its beautiful canals. There are songs written about them, more than 1,500 bridges crossing them, and they are depicted on probably every single postcard from Amsterdam. The canals at its city centre were built during the 17th century, making them a fantastic example of the urban planning of that time. Many canal houses and unique hofjes (courtyards) were also created during the same time.

⤷ Read more : Amsterdam 3 day itinerary

With such a rich cultural heritage, you’ll find numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Europe. They make lovely destinations for cultural tourists to visit. Have you seen any of these sites? What are your favourite European UNESCO sites? Let me know in the comments!

Cultural Tourism , Europe , UNESCO , UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Europe

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European Heritage Label sites

European Heritage sites are milestones in the creation of today’s Europe. Spanning from the dawn of civilisation to the Europe we see today, these sites celebrate and symbolise European ideals, values, history and integration.

Since 2013, these sites have been selected for their symbolic value, the role they have played in European history and activities they offer. These sites bring the European Union and its citizens closer together.

The uniqueness of the European Heritage label

The European Heritage Label has some differences compared to the UNESCO World Heritage List .

European Heritage sites bring to life the European narrative and the history behind it.

European Heritage sites focus on the promotion of the symbolic European values and the significant role these sites have played in the history and culture of Europe. They also offer valuable educational activities, especially for young people.

European Heritage sites can be enjoyed singly or as part of a network. Visitors can get a real feel for the breadth and scale of what Europe has to offer and what it has achieved.

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• 2013 Great Guild Hall, Tallinn Peace Palace, The Hague, the Netherlands Camp Westerbork, the Netherlands Archaeological Park Carnuntum, Austria
• 2014 Hambach Castle, Germany Münster and Osnabrück – Sites of the Peace of Westphalia, Germany The Heart of Ancient Athens, Greece Archive of the Crown of Aragon, Barcelona, Spain Residencia de Estudiantes, Madrid, Spain Abbey of Cluny, France Robert Schuman's House, Scy-Chazelles, France Pan-European Picnic Memorial Park, Sopron, Hungary Museo Casa Alcide De Gasperi, Pieve Tesino, Italy Kaunas of 1919-1940, Lithuania The historic Gdańsk Shipyard, Poland Union of Lublin, Poland May 3, 1791 Constitution, Warsaw, Poland Charter of Law of Abolition of the Death Penalty, Lisbon, Portugal General Library of the University of Coimbra, Portugal Franja Partisan Hospital, Slovenia
• 2015 Krapina Neanderthal Site, Croatia Olomouc Premyslid Castle and Archdiocesan Museum, Czech Republic Sagres Promontory, Portugal The Imperial Palace, Vienna, Austria Historic Ensemble of the University of Tartu, Estonia Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music, Budapest, Hungary Mundaneum, Mons, Belgium World War I Eastern Front Cemetery No. 123, Łużna – Pustki, Poland European District of Strasbourg, France
• 2017 Leipzig’s Musical Heritage Sites, Germany Dohány Street Synagogue Complex, Budapest, Hungary Fort Cadine, Trento, Italy Javorca Memorial Church and its cultural landscape, Tolmin, Slovenia Former Natzweiler concentration camp and its satellite camps, France - Germany Sighet Memorial, Romania Bois du Cazier, Marcinelle, Belgium Village of Schengen, Schengen, Luxembourg Maastricht Treaty, Netherlands
• 2019 Archaeological Area of Ostia Antica (Italy) Underwater Cultural Heritage of the Azores (Portugal) Colonies of Benevolence (Belgium, the Netherlands) Living Heritage of Szentendre (Hungary) Kynžvart Castle – Place of diplomatic meetings (Czech Republic) Site of Remembrance in Łambinowice (Poland) Zdravljica - the Message of the European Spring of Nations (Slovenia) Werkbund Estates in Europe Lieu de Mémoire du Chambon-sur-Lignon (France) The Three Brothers (Latvia)
• 2021 Vučedol Culture Museum and Archaeological Site (Croatia) Archaeological Site of Nemea (Greece) Thracian Art in Eastern Rhodopes: Aleksandrovo Tomb (Bulgaria) Almadén Mining Park (Spain) Echternach Saint Willibrord Heritage (Luxembourg) Historic Centre of Turaida (Latvia) Medieval wall painting in the Gemer and Malohont regions (Slovakia) The Oderbruch (Germany) Palace of the European Commission of the Danube (Romania) Seminaarinmäki Campus (Finland) Ventotene (Italy) MigratieMuseumMigration (MMM) (Belgium)
• 2023 Cisterscapes – Cistercian Landscapes Connecting Europe (Austria, Czechia, Germany, Poland, Slovenia) Monastery of San Jerónimo de Yuste, Cuacos de Yuste (Spain) Our Lord in the Attic Museum, Amsterdam (The Netherlands) Royal Theatre Toone, Brussels (Belgium) The Kalevala - Living Epic Heritage (Finland) Romanian Athenaeum, Bucharest (Romania) Sant’Anna di Stazzema, Stazzema (Italy)

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Europe + Heritage programme

Heritage can be both tangible and intangible: it includes natural heritage, built and archaeological sites, museums, monuments, artworks, historic cities, literary, musical and audio-visual works, and the knowledge, practices and traditions of citizens.

DutchCulture supports sustainable heritage cooperation between the Kingdom of the Netherlands and Europe by supporting and facilitating (international) expert meetings and exchanges while underlining the European context of heritage. We identify trends and opportunities and are in close contact with the heritage field. Please keep us up to date on your tangible and intangible heritage projects with and within Europe by sending us an email.

The Europe + Heritage Programme is designed for heritage organisations and professionals that are based in the Kingdom of the Netherlands (Netherlands, Aruba, Bonaire and Sint Maarten) and wish to visit a European partner, invite a European partner or set up a cooperation with a European partner.

DutchCulture offers consultations in English or Dutch to organisations and individuals who want to start a European heritage project. We do so by offering information about national and international funding opportunities and connecting projects and organisations to international partners. Please do not hesitate to contact Jacomine Hendrikse, advisor Europe + Heritage, to schedule your consultation.

DutchCulture supports heritage cooperation between the Kingdom of the Netherlands and Europe by offering two grant schemes: the Travel Grant Scheme and the Support Grant Scheme.

Cooperation starts with establishing contact and getting to know each other. To facilitate this, DutchCulture has created the Travel Grant Scheme. Under this scheme, vouchers of €250 (for applicants based in the Netherlands) or €1.500 (for applicants based in Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Sint Eustatius, Sint Maarten or Saba - the Caribbean part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands).

Who can apply?   The scheme is open to heritage professionals from the Kingdom of the Netherlands (including the Caribbean part) who wish to visit a European partner. The scheme is open to heritage organisations or municipal councils established in the Kingdom of the Netherlands (including the Caribbean part) that wish to invite European heritage professionals to visit the Netherlands. The Dutch partner can apply on behalf of the European heritage professional, organisation or municipality. The scheme is open to staff members of heritage departments of Dutch municipalities.   What countries does the Travel Grant Scheme apply to ?     The Travel Grant Scheme applies to all the member states of the European Union, the candidate member states (Albania, Republic of North Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia, Ukraine, Turkey) and Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.

When is the deadline?     Applications must be submitted at least four weeks before departure. There is no deadline: you can apply for vouchers year-round until the budget has been depleted.   For more information in English see   Travel Grant Scheme  (pdf), in Dutch see Reiskostenregeling (pdf).

The goal of the Support Grant Scheme is to promote the establishment of contacts with the European heritage sector and the exchange of knowledge between the Netherlands and the rest of Europe. The Support Grant Scheme offers grants of €5.000 maximum.   Who can apply?   Heritage professionals and heritage organisations that are based in the Kingdom of the Netherlands (including the Caribbean part). Heritage departments of Dutch municipalities who wish to strengthen their European network and/or to improve knowledge exchange in the field of heritage between the Netherlands and the rest of Europe.

We would like to encourage you to travel as sustainably as possible and to consider the impact your means of transport has on the climate.

What countries does the Support Grant Scheme apply to?     The scheme is meant for cooperation with European cities, countries, organisations and individuals on the theme of heritage. ‘Europe’ is understood to mean the member states of the European Union, the candidate member states (Albania, Republic of North Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia, Ukraine, Turkey) and Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.

When is the deadline?     Applications should be submitted at least six weeks before a project is due to start. Applications to the scheme can be submitted year-round until the budget has been depleted.

For more information in English see Support Grant Scheme  (pdf), in Dutch see Ondersteuningsregeling  (pdf).

Applications can be done in Dutch or English.

Application form Travel Grant Scheme (Aanvraagformulier Reiskostenregeling): Europe + Heritage Travel Grant Scheme 2021-2024 .

Application form Support Grant Scheme (Aanvraagformulier Ondersteuningsregeling): Europe + Heritage Support Grant Scheme 2021-2024 .

Pilot programme for the Caribbean part of the Kingdom

As of February 2024, a pilot programme for the Caribbean part of the Kingdom offers an increased travel voucher to applicants based in Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Saba, Sint Eustatius and Sint Maarten. With a travel voucher of €1.500 instead of €250 for applicants based in the Netherlands, we hope to stimulate cooperation between the Caribbean part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and Europe. The amount of the Travel Grant Scheme remains the same for all applicants based in the Kingdom of the Netherlands and is a maximum of €5.000.

Other funding opportunities

For more information on funding, see our Mobility Funding Guide (pdf) below or contact us.

Projects supported by the Europe + Heritage programme

Pilot: Heritage grants for cooperation between Caribbean part of the Kingdom and Europe

A New Approach to Cultural Heritage

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Heritage travel can unlock tourism benefits for EU communities 

Emmanuel Marill, Airbnb Regional Director for EMEA, will present to members of the European Committee of the Regions including local Mayors, and meet with the European Parliament Cultural Heritage Intergroup this week to champion the benefits of heritage travel for tourism dispersal in Europe and share an update on Airbnb’s support for the EU’s short-term rental proposal.

The meetings come as Airbnb unveils new initiatives to grow heritage travel in Europe including funding a new European Historic Homes education programme on heritage preservation and promotion, and launching a partnership with the Demeures Historiques & Jardins de Belgique to promote and boost heritage tourism in Belgium.

Airbnb has donated almost ten million euros to heritage organizations in Europe to help boost demand for heritage-related travel and launched a new Historical Homes category in May 2022, making it easier for guests to discover heritage homes in Spain, Germany, Italy, France,the UK, and now Belgium 

There are around 45,000 listings* in the historical homes category and just under 70% of European historic homes on Airbnb are located in non-urban areas, helping to disperse the benefits of tourism to rural and lesser visited destinations**. A previous analysis by Airbnb on the impacts of Airbnb’s flexible search features – including ‘Categories’ such as historical homes and ‘I’m Flexible’– shows they help to divert bookings away from Europe’s most saturated tourist hotspots and peak travel dates in support of more sustainable travel trends.

“Heritage travel can play a vital role in helping to disperse tourism outside of city centers and spread the benefits of tourism to more rural areas, all whilst helping to preserve historic homes for generations to come. The typical historical home Host on Airbnb in EMEA earned around than 1,200 euros between May and September last year*** and we look forward to building on our work to support heritage travel and historic home owners with partners in the EU in 2023.” Emmanuel Marill, Airbnb Regional Director for EMEA

Airbnb’s work on heritage in the EU also includes:

• Donations totalling almost €10 million to heritage associations across Europe to boost heritage tourism and help restore some of the continent’s most important historical attractions and homes. Donations have been made in France, the UK, Spain, Italy and Germany.
• The restoration of a traditional townhouse in the historic town of Sambuca, bringing an abandoned ‘ 1 euro house ’ back to life with the aim of boosting tourism as part of a wider commitment to support rural communities and cultural heritage in Europe.
• Showcasing Europe’s rich architectural heritage by offering guests the opportunity to stay in landmark heritage buildings such as Weissenstein Palace in Germany and Villa Balbiano in Italy.
• The launch of the Heritage Academy in France , Italy and Spain , giving prospective Hosts a dedicated toolkit and a personal Host ambassador to offer bespoke training and advice on how to become a Historical Homes Host.
• An epic slow travel journey connecting remarkable historic homes across Europe, shining a spotlight on the appeal of heritage travel through a specially curated railway adventure in partnership with Interrail. 

Airbnb is also working with policy-makers from across the EU on establishing and enforcing fair and transparent STR rules and believes the EU short-term rental proposal is a major step forward that can introduce clear, simple and harmonized rules that unlock the benefits of hosting for European families and give governments the information they need to clamp down on speculators and overtourism. 

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What To See During The European Heritage Days 2023

Each September during the European Heritage Days ( Journées du Patrimoine ) visitors and residents alike have the unique opportunity to discover museums, monuments, and private spaces that are otherwise closed to the public. These days provide a fantastic look into some of France’s most spectacular sites. This year, the Journées du Patrimoine are September 16th and 17th. We’re sharing some of our top picks for what to see during the 2023 European Heritage Days in France.

What To See During European Heritage Days 2023

The French Ministry of Culture created the Journées du Patrimoine 40 years ago. They take place on the third weekend of September and see approximately 12 million visitors annually. One of the purposes of the Journées du Patrimoine is to highlight the unique stories, histories, and collections of the 17,000 participating sites. These places include embassies, theaters, hospitals, schools, castles, factories and more.

Because of their popularity, the European Heritage Days can involve some time spent queuing in line. Since the pandemic, there has been a shift towards using a reservation system. While not every place has adopted this system yet, more and more places are starting to.

The 2023 European Heritage Days themes are “Living Heritage” and “Sports Heritage.” You can browse an interactive map of participating sites here .

Paris and Île-de-France

You’ll find options galore during the Journées du Patrimoine in Paris and the Île de France region. Some perennially popular places to visit include the Elysée Palace , Hôtel Matignon , the French Senate , and the Institut de France . It’s also a wonderful opportunity to explore places like the National Assembly , the greenhouses in the Luxembourg Gardens, and the Oratoire du Louvre.

This is also a fantastic time to visit some of the castles in the Île de France region surrounding Paris. You can visit rooms normally closed to the public at Château de Champs-sur-Marne , the dungeon at the Château de Vincennes , and the family-owned Château de Saint-Jean de Beauregard .

Where to Stay in Paris

Château Voltaire This 5-star hotel in the 1st arrondissement is a design lover’s dream. The hotel is a tribute to the Parisian art de vivre and a combination of three buildings that date back from the 17th and 18th centuries. The 32 rooms are the epitome of elegance and comfort. Each room contains bespoke headboards, handcrafted details, solid oak wall lights, fringed velvet, and manor-style woodwork. Each element adds to the setting, evoking an almost Gothic, angular and poetic Paris seen through the windows. The breakfast is served at the table to guarantee the freshness of the dishes. Discover a reinterpreted French cuisine at the restaurant. The chef combines local produce with modern culinary skills to create exotic delicacies. Here, the dining experience permeates the art de vivre through even the smallest details. The spa features a sauna as well as a heated pool where guest can relax on a heated day-bed.

There are plenty of ways to celebrate the 2023 European Heritage Days in Normandy. Visit La Poterie du Mesnil de Bavent to discover the finials and other ceramic decorations that adorn the villas on the coast. La Poterie du Mesnil de Bavent has been a specialist since 1842. Along with discovering the company’s savoir-faire , you’ll have the opportunity to visit and experience a craftsman village along with a market with both designers and second-hand dealers.

At famed French interior designer Jacques Garcia’s Domaine du Champ de Bataille there will be a special interactive program. Visit the fabulous apartments, tour the exceptionally open Moghol Palace, and visit the French gardens.

In Villedieu-les-Poêles, a town known for its copper production, you can visit the Cornille-Havard bell foundry. This is the foundry that produced the bells for the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris.

• Loire Valley

In the Loire Valley, the Château de Chenonceau is offering a special visit for the 2023 European Heritage Days. Meet at the château at 7:00 am for an exclusive visit as the sun comes up and before the castle opens to the public.

At Château de Villandry you can tour the famous French gardens in a horse-drawn carriage. Experience a special guided tour filled with historical anecdotes. Master craftsmen will also be on site to enhance a visit to the château, and visitors will be able to test out some of the various techniques used.

Bordeaux and Southwest France

Unique offerings in Bordeaux include tours of forgotten theaters, an ironmaking workshop and demonstration, and a variety of cultural walks. A not to be missed visit is to the Hôtel de Basquiat, a historic building dating from the 18th century. It was built for Joseph Basquiat de Mugriet, adviser to the parliament of Bordeaux. This exceptional residence was completed in 1781 after three years of construction, supervised by the architect François Lhôte.

In Saint-Émilion, visit the largest monolithic church in Europe. Carved out at the beginning of the 12th century, the monolithic church is underground and only visible thanks to its bell tower that reaches 68 meters high. The building is hidden from the eyes of the visitors behind a gothic portal that only the guide can open. A must-see for the European Heritage Days!

In Sarlat, many places that are normally closed to the public will be open including the Lanterns of the Dead and private mansions. Don’t miss Saturday night’s “Heritage Under the Stars” in Sarlat to discover the city’s alleys illuminated by candles.

Where to Stay in Nice

Hotel Negresco This famous property has overlooked one of the French Riviera’s most beautiful bays for a century. Unique and timeless, it has been classified as a historical monument. Facing the Mediterranean Sea on the famous Promenade des Anglais , the hotel is a few minutes walk from Nice’s historical center. The hotel has attracted a veritable “who’s who” of international clientele, kings of the old and the new world. Many of the world’s rich and famous have signed the guest book: Salvador Dali, Princess Grace of Monaco, the Beatles, Louis Armstrong, and Elton John. Staying at this hotel is stepping into French history and culture. The perfect combination of historic and contemporary is the property’s trademark. Equipped and personalized with exceptional period furniture, each one of the 128 rooms and 26 suites draws its inspiration from the most remarkable French art periods. From Louis XIII style to modern art, five centuries of history are represented. Have breakfast under the cupola imagined by Gustave Eiffel, lunch in the Rotonde restaurant surrounded by white horses, and dinner at the Chantecler, the Michelin star restaurant. In between, why not have a drink at the warm and welcoming bar? In summer, enjoy the private beach just a few steps away from the hotel’s doors.

Provence and the French Riviera

The Provence region is filled with activities for the European Heritage Days. In Marseille you can exceptionally visit the Fort d’Entrecasteaux , which has been closed to the public since it was built in 1660.

In Nice, in the spirit of the “Sports Heritage” theme, visitors as young as 4 years old will be able to discover “All by Bike!” There will be an impressive collection of the Nice brand URAGO collector’s edition bicycles, a mandala bike animation that allows participants to create a work of art while pedaling, and a bike mission game that allows participants to learn how to repair a bike as well as learn safety practices.

Lastly, in Aix-en-Provence, take an exceptional guided tour around marble. Visitors will be able to see rare antique marbles, Bibémus marble, Aleppo breach and Tholonet marble.

The possibilities are almost limitless when it comes to celebrating the 2023 European Heritage Days in France. Each region puts its cultural gems front and center so that participants can have a deeper understanding of French heritage and culture. French Side Travel offers a whole host of itineraries focused around history and culture including the Provence and French Riviera Discovery Tour , the Highlights of Normandy by Train , and a Classic Tour of the City of Light .

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I've visited over 50 cities in Europe. London and Paris were great, but these 5 lesser-known locations are worth a visit.

• After traveling to over 50 cities in Europe , I've enjoyed visiting some lesser-known locations.
• Bath, England, is a great place to visit for Roman ruins and beautiful architecture.
• I also loved traveling to Bruges, Belgium, which is both historic and romantic.

I've visited over 50 cities in Europe, and while I love global tourist hubs like London and Paris , I also try to seek out smaller cities and towns.

With over 13 million Americans predicted to travel to Europe this summer, it could be the right time to check out the off-the-beaten-path destinations on your travel bucket list .

These are five lesser-known destinations in Europe I recommend visiting.

Bath, England, is just a 90-minute train ride from London.

As you probably could have guessed from this city's name, Bath is known for its Roman baths. These baths, dating back to AD 70, are some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world.

Bath is known for its beautiful Georgian architecture , which can be admired in places like the Royal Crescent, which features a crescent-shaped row of 30 houses.

I also loved visiting the Circus, which is made up of townhouses arranged in a circular pattern. These areas showcase Georgian architecture and are what makes walking around Bath feel unique.

If you're a book lover, you can visit during the annual Jane Austen Festival in September, where people dress up, and the city is taken back in time.

The train from London to Bath takes about 90 minutes, making this city the perfect day trip.

Mostar is a beautiful city in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Mostar really surprised me. It didn't look like anywhere else I'd been, with the towering Old Bridge connecting the two sides of the city. The 16th-century bridge, rebuilt after the 1990s war, is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The city also has a well-preserved Ottoman quarter with charming cobblestone streets. During my time in Mostar, I loved drinking Bosnian coffee, taking in the views of the city, and feasting on local dishes like ćevapi.

Bruges, Belgium, is a romantic city.

Bruges is a well-preserved medieval town. Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visiting feels like stepping back in time.

The best thing I did was take a boat ride on the canal, admiring the architecture while cruising through Minnewaterpark, commonly referred to as the Lake of Love .

Bruges is a laid-back destination that makes a convenient day trip from nearby Paris and Brussels. The city is perfect for couples looking to indulge in Belgian beer and chocolate.

Heidelberg, Germany, embraces modern life without losing its historical charm.

Heidelberg has striking views around every corner. The city is home to a centuries-old castle as well as the oldest university in Germany .

I enjoyed walking along Philosophenweg (also called Philosopher's Way), where professors sought solitude and academic inspiration. The path was especially beautiful during my trip in the fall.

We loved spending time in the city, which had lots of nice restaurants and cool bars. Heidelberg does an amazing job of embracing the new while holding on to its historical charm.

Andorra La Vella is a hidden gem in the Pyrenees mountains.

Andorra La Vella is the capital of Andorra, a country in the Pyrenees between France and Spain .

Every restaurant we dined at featured dishes influenced by the surrounding countries. If you want to try authentic Andorran food, head to a borda — a traditional house once used for agricultural purposes . Now, these buildings are used as charming restaurants.

Andorra la Vella is a great day trip from Barcelona, but the city deserves more than a one-day visit.

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JEWISH HERITAGE TOURS

• Jewish Heritage Tour of Montenegro, Albania, and Corfu (Greece)
• Jewish Heritage Tour of Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Greece
• Jewish Heritage Tour of Romania, Serbia, and Szeged
• Jewish Heritage Tour of Croatia, Bosnia, Slovenia, and Trieste
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European Jewish Heritage Tour | Jewish Heritage Travel in Europe

If you’re searching for a Jewish Heritage Tour in Europe, you’ve come to the right place. We provide European Jewish Heritage Tours, with a special focus on the Jewish communities of Eastern Europe and the Balkans.

We offer three different European Jewish Heritage itineraries. Our first Jewish Tour of Europe includes Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Greece . We explore the rich Sephardic heritage of the region, and we focus on the specific cultural traits of the Jewish communities of the three countries we visit. Some of the highlights of this European Jewish Heritage tour include specialized in-depth Jewish tours of Sofia, Plovdiv, Skopje, Bitola (Monastir), and Thessaloniki (Salonica). We offer the tour every summer, around the middle of June. Here is a glimpse of our European Jewish Heritage tour itinerary:

Tour Itinerary: Sofia—Rila Monastery—Kyustendil—Skopje—Ohrid—Bitola (Monastir)—Vergina—Thessaloniki (Salonica)—Plovdiv—Bachkovo Monastery—Sofia .

If our set dates don’t work for you, or if you’d prefer to travel privately, we also offer customized tailor-designed private tours, based on your specific interests.

Our second Jewish Heritage Tour of Europe explores the region of the Western Balkans. On this European Jewish Heritage tour we travel through Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Slovenia, and Trieste . You will have memorable Jewish city tours in Sarajevo, Mostar, Dubrovnik, Split, Zagreb, Ljubljana, and Trieste. Our tour itinerary moves along the following route:

Tour Itinerary: Sarajevo—Mostar—Stolac—Dubrovnik—Split—Plitvice Lakes—Zagreb—Bled Lake and Castle—Ljubljana—Postojna Cave—Trieste .

On this European Jewish Tour, too, if our date don’t fit your schedule, or if you’d prefer to have a private tour, we’re happy to offer a customized private Jewish heritage trip.

Our newest offering is a European Jewish Heritage Tour of Romania, Serbia, and Szeged (Hungary) . This Jewish heritage tour of Central and Eastern Europe includes specialized Jewish city tours of Bucharest, Belgrade, Brasov, Cluj-Napoca, Sighisoara, Szeged, Maramures and Sighet, Oradea, Satu Mare, Novi Sad, Subotica, and much more! Here is a preview of our third European Jewish heritage tour itinerary:

Tour Itinerary: Bucharest—Peles Castle—Bran Castle—Brasov—Sighisoara—Targu Mures—Cluj-Napoca—Sighetu Marmatiei—Satu Mare—Oradea—Szeged—Subotica—Novi Sad—Belgrade .

On a final note, please keep checking our website for our upcoming new fourth European Jewish Heritage Tour itinerary. Next year we’ll be launching our Jewish Heritage tour of Albania, Corfu, and Montenegro! Join our mailing list in order to get regular updates about our European Jewish Heritage tour offerings.

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13-Day Anabaptist European Heritage Tour

Memorial marker at Schleitheim

Our European Heritage tour illuminates the Anabaptist-Mennonite story through visiting important sites in the Netherlands, Germany, France, Switzerland, Austria, and Bavaria. With facts and anecdotes, our tour leader will bring to life the stories of Menno Simons, Jacob Amman, Conrad Grebel, Martin Luther and many other Reformation and Anabaptist leaders. Other tour highlights include: scenic drives through the Black Forest and the countryside in Switzerland, an afternoon cruise on the Rhine River, and hiking into the foothills of the Swiss Alps to the Cave of the Anabaptists.

Day 1     Amsterdam, the Netherlands

Arrive at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport in the morning. After breakfast, visit Zaanse Schans, a historic village with typical green Zaan Region houses, working windmills, and craftsmen making wooden shoes and cheese. If there is time, you’ll also stop in the town of Volendam before going to our hotel.

Day 2     Amsterdam to Berlikum, the Netherlands

This morning, delight in the colours and scents of the Aalsmeer flower auction—where 20 million flowers from around the world are traded daily. Following a canal boat ride, cross the 22-mile Afsluitdijk to Friesland to learn about the Menno Simons story. Stops include the hidden church at Pingjum and the Menno Simons’ monument at Witmarsum. Tonight, stay with local families in the little Friesian village of Berlikum.

Day 3     Berlikum, the Netherlands to Münster, Germany

After saying goodbye to your new friends at Berlikum, travel to Münster in Germany. On a walking tour, hear about the violent uprising of radical Anabaptists during the Münster Rebellion. This uprising had an important impact on Menno Simons’ decision to pursue nonviolence. After travelling to Köln, take a walking tour of the city and see the spectacular Köln cathedral.

Day 4     Münster to Koblenz, Germany

This morning, visit the ruins of the Ludendorff Bridge at Remagen—the site of an important conflict between the Americans and Nazis during World War II. Then travel to Deutsches Eck at Koblenz to board a ship for a Rhine River cruise. Enjoy the scenery, including castles and castle ruins, as you travel from Boppard to Bacharach.

Day 5      Koblenz to Kraichgau, Germany

In the Palatinate region of Germany, worship with the Weierhof congregation in a semi-communal Mennonite village. Afterward, on a visit to Worms, see the Reformers’ Monument and hear the Martin Luther story. In the hilly Kraichgau region of Southwestern Germany, visit Sinsheim and climb the Steinsberg Tower.

Day 6     Kraichgau to Colmar, France

On your way to the Alsace region of France, drive through small villages on the famous “wine road.” During the drive, hear about Jacob Amman, the founder of the Amish, who was born and lived in this region of France. Walk in the quaint town of Riquewihr and later see a collection of local and international works of art at the Musée Unterlinden in Colmar. Works include paintings by Albrecht Durer and the Isenheim Altarpiece.

Day 7      Colmar to Basel, Switzerland

Cross into Switzerland at Basel. In the Emmental, stop in Langnau to visit the oldest continuous Mennonite church and other important sites like the Trachselwald Castle, where Anabaptists were imprisoned. You’ll also stop in Eggiwil and Sumiswald and remember the sympathetic villagers that hid your Anabaptist forbears at great risk and cost to themselves. The story of your heritage continues on a walking tour of Bern.

Day 8     Basel to Zurich, Switzerland

On a walking tour of Zurich, note important Anabaptist sites and hear stories that took place in this city. In the afternoon, hike to the former secret worship and meditation site at the Anabaptist Cave near Bäretswil in the foothills of the Alps.

Day 9       Zurich, Switzerland

This morning, remember the persecution and execution of Anabaptists at Schleitheim as you reflect at a monument. Be refreshed eating lunch beside the spectacular Rhine waterfalls at Neuhausen. Then it’s on to St. Gallen, through the beautiful Swiss countryside, to hear about Joachim Vadian, the brother-in-law of Conrad Grebel and an important Protestant leader.

Day 10      Zurich to Innsbruck, Austria

Enjoy the fantastic scenery of Austria as you cross the beautiful Silvretta Pass on your way to Innsbruck. In Innsbruck, hear the Jacob Hutter story and enjoy apple strudel on the famous Maria Theresien Strasse. Optional Tyrolean folk show this evening.

Day 11      Innsbruck to Wasserburg , Germany

Travelling to Rattenberg, learn about Pilgram Marpeck, a South German Anabaptist leader who lost jobs and his position as a respected citizen because of his “Anabaptist activities.” Crossing the Aachen Pass will take you to Bavaria and the historic walled city of Wasserburg.

Day 12      Wasserburg to Oberammergau, Germany

The day begins with a sobering visit to Dachau, one of Hitler’s notorious concentration camps. The memorials, film and visual displays will remind you of the atrocities committed. There will be free time in the afternoon to visit the famous town of Oberammergau. Tonight, say farewell to your fellow travellers over dinner.

Day 13     Munich, Germany to North America

Drive to Munich and depart for home full of memories and stories to tell your friends and family back home.

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In Poland, tour Warsaw's Castle Square, site of historical demonstrations and uprisings, with Exeter International.

Best Tours in Europe

From Traveler Magazine's 2012 Tours of a Lifetime

Bosnia and Herzegovina: Rafting Trifecta

Home to the rugged Dinaric Alps, one of the last primeval forests in Europe, and white water galore, Bosnia is heaven for adrenaline junkies. This adventure combines Class 2 to 4 runs on three rivers—the Tara, known as the Grand Canyon of the Balkans; the emerald green Neretva; and the Vrbas, host of the 2009 World Rafting Championships—with cultural forays into Sarajevo, Banja Luka, and Mostar. O.A.R.S. : “Bosnia: Three Rivers,” 9 days; $2,990.

Bulgaria: Land of Dionysus and Orpheus

This trip digs into the cultural heritage of Bulgaria, from the era of the Thracians, who venerated Dionysus and originated the legend of the musician Orpheus, to the present day. Listen to a chamber concert at the ancient Serdica amphitheater in Sofia. Tour the tenth-century mountaintop Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Make banitza —phyllo filled with cheese—in the riverbank village of Gabrovo, and taste the fruit of thousands of years of winemaking. Cultu­ral Crossroads : “Cultural Splendors of Bulgaria: Art, Wine, and Traditions,” 12 days; $4,695.

France: A Week in Provence

Kathy and Charley Wood were inspired to show off the Provence they got to know after their own six-month sabbatical here. You’ll have one base for this weeklong immersion: a guesthouse in the hilltop village of Bonnieux. Take lunch at the family-owned winery, Domaine Faverot, sample cheese at a goat farm near Saignon, and explore ancient caves that were once quarters of the Knights Templar, none of which are usually open to the public. European Expe­riences : “Luberon Experience,” 8 days; $2,800.

Iceland: Family Romp

Icebergs the size of semis, simmering volcanoes, gray lava flats, and white ice fields: Tiny Iceland is jam-packed with topographic wonders ideal for family adventures. This one has you hiking, biking, horseback riding, rafting, and bird-watching through some of the island’s otherworldly land- and seascapes, including Skaftafell National Park and the Haukadalur Valley. Backroads : “Iceland Family Multisport,” 6 days; from $4,358.

Italy: Tuscan Leisure Cruise

Inspired by Italy’s “slow food” movement, the notion of “slow paddling” draws on the participants’ natural abilities rather than kayaking dogma, which makes for a more relaxed exploration of Tuscany’s Elba Island by sea. But first, get your bearings on land at a family-owned inn in the Tuscan hill town of Impruneta, where you’ll cook from the garden; elsewhere, get tips on capturing the region’s golden light in a photo workshop. H2Outfitters : “Slow Food, Slow Paddling: Sea Kayaking Italy’s Tuscan Islands,” 9 days; $4,950.

Poland: Culture Sampler

Wandering the museums and old towns of Warsaw and Krakow is like walking through the pages of a European history book. Tour the Gothic Wawel Cathedral, the coronation and burial site for Polish monarchs since the 14th century. See Bellotto’s paintings of the capital at the Royal Castle, which were used as a reference to reconstruct the city after its destruction in World War II. Sample nalweki —herbal-infused vodka—at an artisanal distillery in the countryside, and learn the trick to making pierogi during a private lesson. Exeter International : “Treasures of Poland,” 7 days; $4,675.

Portugal: Azores Walkabout

The maritime history of this Portuguese archipelago in the middle of the North Atlantic has long overshadowed the inland wonders of waterfalls, extinct volcanoes, elusive birds (like the Azorean bullfinch), and geysers and fumaroles. This trek through three of the nine volcanic islands does them justice. Country Walkers : “Portugal: The Azores,” 7 days; $3,998.

Romania: Dracula’s Backyard

• Nat Geo Expeditions

This family-centric lap of Transylvania engages kids with geo-caching in the medieval city of Brasov, breadmaking with a local baker in the remote Saxon village of Viscri, and a visit to Dracula’s castle. KE Adventure Travel : “Treasures of Transylvania,” 8 days; $1,475.

Russia: Space Odyssey

If you truly, madly, deeply wanted to be an astronaut, this special itinerary lets you play the part. It kicks off with a tour of Star City, the country’s Cape Canaveral, and an opportunity to participate in cosmonaut training (at extra cost). Next it’s off to the Kazakh steppe to watch a launch and schmooze with luminaries of the space set. The trip culminates back in Moscow as you watch a live satellite feed at Mission Control of the Soyuz spacecraft docking with the International Space Station. MIR Corporation : “Inside the Russian Space Program,” 10 days; $13,995.

France, Italy, Switzerland: Europe’s White Mountain

With spectacular Sound of Music scenery, the camaraderie of fellow hikers, and the Alpine cultures of three different countries, this hiking circuit around western Europe’s highest peak, Mont Blanc (15,770 feet), has become a classic. The outfitter’s version includes stays in cozy auberges. Boundless Journeys : “Tour du Mont Blanc,” 9 days; $4,195.

These guided tours are part of National Geographic Traveler' s 50 Tours of a Lifetime for 2012 for the outfitters' commitment to authenticity, immersion, sustainability, and connection.

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

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If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

Alya and Campbell

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A Road Trip Through Texas’ ‘European’ Cities

Towns are often named after their founders or notable early residents. But Texas also boasts a surprising number whose names are the same as some of the great cities in the world. As a result, you can jump in the car and, in a single day, tour some of the most famous places in the world — or at least Texas’ versions of them. So, fill up the tank and let’s tour some of the “European” cities in Texas.

Where else to start than in the cradle of East Texas civilization? The town of Paris was founded during the Texas Republic by the merchant George W. Wright, and it was one of Wright’s employees who came up with the idea of naming it after the French city. The town boomed thanks to the arrival of the railroad, and today, it remains a commercial hub and manufacturing center. It takes pride in its origins, boasting one of the tallest Eiffel Towers outside of the French capital — only this version is capped with a giant cowboy hat.

From Paris, head southwest through the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex until you arrive in Dublin. No one is completely certain how this small Texas town got its name. Founders could have named it after the Irish capital, or it could have been named for the shout that rang out during skirmishes with Native Americans: “Double In!” Today, however, they commemorate the association in the name by hosting a lively and enormous St. Patrick’s Day celebration every year.

From Dublin, head deep into Hill Country to discover a London that is not beset by frequent fog and continual rain. There were big hopes when London was founded in the 1870s that the town square would be the center of a new county. Unfortunately, its aspirational name didn’t result in the boom its founders wanted. The little, unincorporated town only has a population of a few hundred today.

Next, we head to a town that shares its name with the seat of the Italian Renaissance. In reality, Florence, Texas, may actually be named after Florence, Alabama, where the town’s first postmaster once lived. Unlike its Italian counterpart, Florence is not known for producing any notable artists, but it was home to a cheese factory in its heyday.

Heading south from Florence toward the Gulf Coast, you will come across another famous center of culture: Vienna. While the town was founded by Anglo-American planters in 1840, many of the German immigrants who began to move to Texas felt comfortable putting down roots in a town that bore a familiar name. Today, however, only around 40 people call it home.

About 80 miles northwest of Vienna, you’ll find yourself in another great Germanic city: Berlin. It was founded in the 1850s by Germans who were beginning to arrive in Texas en masse and settling in Central Texas. The area remained primarily agricultural, and Texas’ Berlin remains a small, unincorporated, rural community.

The final leg of the journey takes us east to Moscow — but not that far east. Moscow, Texas, was founded in the Piney Woods in the 1840s. It was originally called Greenville, but in 1853 a postmaster must have decided Texas already had too many Greenvilles and demanded the town change its name. No one quite knows why they chose to borrow the new name from the Russian capital. During the 19th century, it grew into the largest town in Polk County, even boasting its own streetcar at one time. But as the lumbering industry upon which Moscow depended dwindled, so did the town’s fortunes. Today, it is a little community of around 170 people.

As you trek across the European cities in Texas, there’s no better way to remind yourself of where you really are than with the ultimate Texas road trip playlist .

© 2021 Texas Farm Bureau Insurance  

Hungarian leader Orbán's visit with Putin in Moscow draws condemnation

H ungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's visit to Moscow to discuss prospects for a peaceful settlement in Ukraine with Russian President Vladimir Putin was a rare trip to Russia by a European leader and it drew condemnation from Kyiv and European leaders.

Orbán's visit Friday came only days after he made a similar unannounced trip to Ukraine, where he met with President Volodymyr Zelensky and proposed that Ukraine consider agreeing to an immediate cease-fire with Russia.

“The number of countries that can talk to both warring sides is diminishing,” Orbán said. “Hungary is slowly becoming the only country in Europe that can speak to everyone.”

Hungary assumed the rotating presidency of the EU at the start of July and Putin suggested that Orbán had come to Moscow as a top representative of the European Council. Several top European officials dismissed that suggestion and said Orbán had no mandate for anything beyond a discussion about bilateral relations.

The Hungarian prime minister, widely seen as having the warmest relations with Putin among EU leaders, has routinely blocked, delayed or watered down EU efforts to assist Kyiv and impose sanctions on Moscow for its actions in Ukraine. He has long argued for a cessation of hostilities in Ukraine but without outlining what that might mean for the country's territorial integrity or future security.

That posture has frustrated Hungary’s EU and NATO allies, who have denounced Russia’s actions as a breach of international law and a threat to the security of countries in Eastern Europe.

Speaking after the Kremlin talks, Orbán said he told Putin that "Europe needs peace,” adding that he asked the Russian leader for his thoughts on existing peace plans and whether he believed a cease-fire could precede any potential peace talks.

Standing alongside Orbán, Putin declared that Russia wouldn’t accept any cease-fire or temporary break in hostilities that would allow Ukraine “to recoup losses, regroup and rearm.”

The Russian leader repeated his demand that Ukraine withdraw its troops from the four regions that Moscow claims to have annexed in 2022 as a condition for any prospective peace talks. Ukraine and its Western allies have rejected that demand, suggesting it is akin to asking Kyiv to withdraw from its own territory.

Putin said they also exchanged views on the current state of Russia-EU relations, which are “now at their lowest point.”

Hungary at the beginning of the month took over the six-month rotating presidency of the EU Council, a largely formal role that can be used to shape the bloc’s policy agenda.

Orbán said that he looks at his six-month presidency of the EU Council as a “peace mission,” saying the fighting in Ukraine had burdened Europe’s security and economy, and that only dialogue and diplomacy could bring an end to the hostilities.

“I wanted to know where we can find the shortest road to peace,” Orbán said of his visit, adding that he’d also asked Putin on his view on Europe’s long-term security after hostilities end in Ukraine.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov noted that the visit to Moscow was Orbán’s idea and was agreed to only on Wednesday, adding that Moscow valued Orbán’s ”strong, clear and consistent course” aimed at trying to resolve the conflict.

Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement that Orbán's decision to visit Moscow was made “without approval or coordination” with Kyiv. It added that “the principle of ‘no agreements on Ukraine without Ukraine’ remains inviolable for our country” and called on all states to strictly adhere to it.

European officials have heavily criticized Orbán's trip to Moscow, the first such visit by a European leader since Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer met with Putin in the Kremlin in April 2022, just weeks after Russia sent troops into Ukraine.

“This is about appeasement. It’s not about peace,” European Commission spokesperson Eric Mamer said.

The EU’s foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, said in a statement that Orbán’s visit to Moscow “takes place, exclusively, in the framework of the bilateral relations between Hungary and Russia.”

“Prime Minister Orbán has not received any mandate from the EU Council to visit Moscow,” Borrell said, adding that his “position excludes official contacts between the EU and President Putin. The Hungarian Prime Minister is thus not representing the EU in any form.”

Orbán quickly shot back on the social media platform X, dismissing Borrel's statement as “the Brusselian bureaucratic nonsense that yielded no results in finding a way to peace.”

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre voiced concern about Orbán's trip to Moscow, noting that it "will not advance the cause of peace and is counterproductive to promoting Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence.”

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said Orbán informed him in advance about his travel to Moscow but that he “is not representing NATO at these meetings."

Kaja Kallas, the outgoing Estonian prime minister nominated to become the next EU foreign policy chief, accused Orbán of “exploiting" the presidency and said the Hungarian leader is trying “to sow confusion.”

"The EU is united, clearly behind Ukraine and against Russian aggression,” Kallas, a staunch supporter of Ukraine, wrote on X.

Associated Press writer Isachenkov reported from Moscow, Spike from Budapest, Hungary. AP writers Dasha Litvinova in Tallinn, Estonia, and Emma Burrows in London contributed to this report.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times .