If we had to describe Moscow, Russia’s capital and former heart of the Soviet Union, in just two words, they would be grand and majestic.
Moscow is one of the world’s most captivating capitals—a mesmerizing blend of art, culture, and history. If you’re planning to visit and want to know what to see in Moscow, this is the guide for you: a quick roundup of Moscow’s must-see attractions. Here, you’ll find a brief guide on what to do and visit in Moscow, the dazzling Russian metropolis.
Top Sights in Moscow
1 Red Square, Moscow
Red Square: vibrant, colorful, lively, and utterly fascinating. It’s the heart of the city and a symbol of Russia’s national identity. The astounding architecture makes it truly one of a kind. Red Square is home to major concerts and also transforms into a skating rink in winter—it’s truly the epicenter of Moscow’s nightlife, renowned for being lively around the clock. Though Moscow has countless attractions, Red Square is certain to leave you breathless. At night, it shines under powerful lights, ensuring excellent safety. In winter, be prepared for freezing weather: Moscow’s temperatures can plummet to -20°C.
2 The Kremlin, Moscow
The Kremlin is the symbol of Russia’s power and history—a fortified city within the city. Touring it could take days, as it houses many unmissable sights: the Ivan the Great Bell Tower, the Cathedral of the Archangel, the Church of the Deposition of the Robe, and much more. Reopened in 1955 after Stalin’s death, the Kremlin became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990.
3 Saint Basil’s Cathedral, Moscow
The Cathedral of Saint Basil sits at the southern edge of Red Square. Not only is it famous worldwide, but it’s also a quintessential symbol of the former Soviet Union. Its 9 vividly colored domes create a unique profile that’s instantly recognizable. Saint Basil’s has also been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1990.
4 Moscow Metro
The Moscow Metro is a marvel in itself: 200 kilometers of underground railways, with stations decked out in marble and precious materials—some feel more like museums, celebrating the ideals and symbols of old communism and collectivism. While locals may take them for granted, visitors are often awed by these architectural gems. Moscow can be a challenging city for newcomers: many signs are only in Cyrillic, so it’s wise to explore with someone familiar with the city or a professional tour guide.
5 What to See in Moscow in One Day
Moscow was designed to amaze, impress, and stand the test of time. Its scale will humble even the most seasoned traveler. Start your discovery from the Sparrow Hills, a magnificent viewpoint offering a panoramic sweep of the city, which—as in Rome—is built on seven hills.
Take in the seven “M-shaped” skyscrapers from the Stalin era—imposing rather than beautiful, still home to Moscow’s elite. Then there’s the Kremlin, with its endless basilicas and palaces, plus the superb Armory Museum, where you’ll find the “Tsar Cannon” (a 40-ton bronze giant that never fired), and the world’s largest bell—seven meters across, 200 tons, but it’s never rung due to damage from a fire. And don’t miss the thousand churches, with their golden or colorful onion domes—like the picture-perfect ones on Saint Basil’s Cathedral. There’s always an odd number of domes: the central one stands for Christ.
