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Bucket list trip to Patagonia (Argentina + Chile)

I worked with Garvey to plan my dream trip to Patagonia. It was a two-week trip, we started in Buenos Aires, took the Australis cruise through the Tierra del Fuego fjords, visited Torres del Paine staying at the Explora Lodge and ended the trip in Santiago. All of the guides that Garvey arranged for excursions were excellent. Garvey managed the travel logistics between the different locations so that our experience in South America was seamless. Overall Lost World Adventures was a great travel agent for us. I had worked with this company previously for a trip to visit Angel Falls in Venezuela and hike the Machu Picchu trail in Peru, which was also fantastic.

Date of experience : November 03, 2023

Andrew stole our money ($22,000) that…

Andrew stole our money ($22,000) that we paid for a luxury Ecuador / Peru vacation. He also stole $8,000 from our friend that was meeting us in South America. He first took our calls in 2020-2021, then disconnected all numbers. We went to the credit card company, and were unable to get a refund. He is a scammer. Beware! The trip was in April 2020, but I finished with the credit card company in May 2022.

Date of experience : May 17, 2022

Go elsewhere for your travel needs!

I have the same experience as others with no returned calls or emails. We had a trip planned for October, 2020 and it was canceled. Andrew, the owner, will not refund our down payment. He won’t even bother to communicate with me. Thankfully we didn’t pay the balance on the trip. I’ve used Lost World in the past, but I would strongly recommend you find another travel agent. Safe travels!

Date of experience : December 22, 2021

Amazing! Antarctica 21 tour on Hebridian Sky surpassed our expectations. Ship was beautifully designed. Room comfy. Food was out of this world in variety, taste and servings. Staff on the ship were professional and helpful. Expedition crew took us on trips even they had not experienced. The only reason for the 4 star rating was the disembarkation process. The process was not discussed and we were left to locate our luggage under tarps on the dock in the rain. We then had to walk with our luggage on uneven pavement about 2 miles in the cold rain to locate our own taxi.

Date of experience : January 10, 2020

I am still waiting for a credit /…

I am still waiting for a credit / refund from Andrew from a pre- Pandemic trip that he cancelled. Almost 13K USD was paid to him and he refuses to reply and refund. Action will be taken. He is a Bluff and Swindler. Please do not book any trips with him. He cannot be trusted.

Date of experience : November 08, 2022

Chile Customized Trip

Everything was booked and went smoothly with one exception. The drivers/transfers which were included all arrived on-time or early. The lodges/hotels that were booked were great boutiques and had no issues. The Eco-Camp location and excursions alone was worth experiencing despite being one part of the trip! The customized trip to Chile was a fantastic experience with all details listed ahead of time included! Mind blowing excursions, good guides, and friendly/helpful people. Lost World Adventures is very trustworthy and put together a great itinerary! Will definitely use them again and would recommend them to others.

Date of experience : December 07, 2019

It was a good trip

It took a lot of time to plan a trip, checking on different web sites about places we wanted to see and how to get there. Andrew was helpful and professional. Tour guides were good. Big vans for transport 3 people were not necessary, but it is South America. Outstanding was Iguazu part and Buenos Aires Tango shows and hotel. One of the problems was inability to use ATM in Brazil because of 20 days strike before we came. Another problem was our final departure problem in Buenos Aires airport, which has no ability to reroute passengers. Their ticket office is in the city! All together "mission was accomplished". Sincerely, Yuly

Date of experience : October 31, 2016

Are they out of business?

Hello. Is anyone else having issues with a complete lack of response? Not sure if they are still in business. I have a trip scheduled for mid-October and have not received any return calls nor emails. Feedback?

Date of experience : August 02, 2021

Our trip was great!

Our trip was great! Your company did a great job coordinating all the details of a multicity adventure. The tour guides and drivers in Chile and Argentina were very knowledgeable and courteous. We felt like we were given a full tour of every city we visited. We just need more time in the future to explore deeper. Accommodations, wine tours and meals were great! The only issue we had was that we were promised some recipes from the Dakshu vegetarian cooking class, but never received anything. When I emailed the Buenos Aires company, Lihue(?) Expeditions, they never replied. If there's anything you can do to help, that be great! Cheers, Mark & Melissa

Date of experience : April 19, 2017

Overall it was great!

Overall it was great!! The hotels, flights and most of the guides were wonderful. One driver/guide that picked us up at Manaus airport was not at the level of all the others. There was a discrepancy on the itinerary for the Hydrofoil BA to Montevideo where it said we had first class tickets but the actual tickets were not??? We did not like how we had to get up very early for flights but then on arrival to the destination hotel we had to wait to check-in. Why so early to wait to check in? Other than that for a 30 day vacay, it was fantastic!! Thanks Garrett, you did a wonderful job!!!

Date of experience : April 26, 2019

Everything was great, except the checkin.

I really liked Everything Mr. Andrew did for me and my wife. The Tierra Atacama was wonderful, the tours and guides were perfect. Special attention to two guides, Felipe and Carolina, they were perfect end different from the others. I had a Very bad experience with the flight from Calama do Santiago, it really bored me. I Know it probably were caused by Latam, but that was the worst part of my trip.

Date of experience : September 16, 2018

Reply from Lost World Adventures

Hello Danilo - many thanks for the feedback and review. We are sorry that the windy conditions in Calama almost prevented you from taking the originally booked flight but after a number of phone calls we were glad to sort this out and get you on the flight after all. Thanks again!

DO NOT DO BUSINESS WITH LOST WORLD ADVENTURES!

I reached out to Responsible Travel through their website to inquire about a combined Machu Picchu/Galapagos trip. They responded on 2/26/19 saying they were a UK company and had turned over my request for information to Lost World who handles their Machu Picchu/Galapagos vacations. The same day I received an email from Garrett at Lost World and the next day a follow up phone call to discuss our desired vacation. He was to follow up with more detailed information. 2 weeks passed and I hadn't heard back from Lost World, so I emailed Garrett. Another week goes by so I called and left a message. The next day I receive an email apologizing for his delay in responding and promising to have something to me by the following day. 3 more days go by, still nothing! So, on 3/22 I send an email to Rosy at Responsible Travel. In their initial email contact on 2/26 they promise to get back within a week to follow up. 4 weeks had passed and still haven't heard from either company. Today is 3/28 and still haven't heard from either company. Moral to this story: DO NOT DO BUSINESS WITH LOST WORLD ADVENTURES and if somehow you get hooked up with Responsible Travel WALK AWAY! Don't waste your time. If this is the type of service these two companies provide when trying to book a vacation, what's going to happened when you're on vacation? I shudder at the thought.

Date of experience : March 28, 2019

Horrible Not a 5 star hotel, maybe a 3

We stayed at Noi Blend Vitacura our last night in Chile, prior to returning to the US. Seven days prior to our stay I contacted Noi Blend regarding antigen testing w/ appropriate documentation that would satisfy entry back to the US. They said they could arrange such testing and scheduled a test for us at the hotel, printed out the email from the purveyor stating we had a negative test and charged us $130. When we arrived at the airport, the Delta agent told us the test was invalid and we would not be able to board the plane with the document in hand. After much chaos and stress, we arranged a drive-by covid test, costing $222. We thought we were going to miss our flight and were the last people to board. Upon return to US, I contacted mgt at Noi Blend, candidly I thought given all that transpired they should of given me a complete refund, at the least I expected a refund for the testing. Their response was “they don’t have a relationship with the Chilean Minister of Health and that all guests much verify with the lab directly to see if the documentation is valid”, that’s fine, they should of indicated such at the onset, not offered to schedule the testing, not charge us $130 and I would of pursued testing elsewhere. We have had several international trips during covid and all of the hotels arranged appropriate testing to return to US. It was so unprofessional. Additionally, this is not a 5 star hotel, at best a 3. The rooms are very tired, bathroom sink in the room, no hot water in the shower, shower door seal was broken and there was water all over the floor. I would not recommend!

Date of experience : April 28, 2022

This client did not travel with our company. We do not book this hotel nor did we book this trip.

Chachapoyas

Chachapoyas The guide (Julio) was very competent and knowledgeable. The high altitudes were a bit of a challenge for our lungs, but Julio was very patient and allowed for frequent stops. Both drivers (the one on our first day) and (the one that took us around during the rest of the trip) were very good and cautious enough to make us feel comfortable. Our stay at the Gocta Lodge was great (the only suggestion I would make would be an earlier time for dinner, 8:30 pm seems a bit late with a big hike planned for the next day). My wife and I appreciated the close contact with the owner. Our stay at Casa Dona Lola was fine and the owners were very approachable and pleasant. The hotel in Chachapoyas is a different story. There was a lot of noisy street traffic noise outside our room and the windows/door did nothing to keep it out. The curtains on the window were not dark enough to block light from the street lamps. (The only way I could get some sleep was by resorting to earplugs and eye cover.) Last but not least the sink in the bathroom did not drain properly. My overall assessment is that the trip was very well organized. Improvements should be made (choice of another hotel?) to take care of the issues I raised regarding the accommodation at Chachapoyas.

Date of experience : October 28, 2019

First Class all the way!

Andrew and his team set us up with the most amazing trip to Belize. We stayed in both the ecolodge at Chaa Creek and the beautiful beach front Victoria House. Both properties were amazing.... the service, food, drinks, accommodations and staff were first class all the way. From Mayan Ruins, to Howler monkeys, to caving experiences, to snorkeling the trip could not have better! We will be using Lost World Adventures for our next Central American trip!

Date of experience : March 05, 2020

another wonderful trip-

We have taken several trips using Lost World Adventures. We have found this company to be very well organized and thorough. Our guides on this trip; Alexjandra Oyarzum in Valparaiso, Chile and Maria O'Connor in Buenos Aires were exceptional. Knowledge, friendly and helpful. We will use Lost World Adventures again when we plan a trip to Central or South America.

Date of experience : March 14, 2016

Don't, Just Don't

I recently went on a trip to Chile with Lost World Adventures to see the solar eclipse. The trip itself was a 3 - the hotel was terrible, the activities were ok, the eclipse was amazing. The reason for my 2-star rating is that the preplanning process a 0. It was a nightmare of unreturned emails and phone calls and poor communication which gave me lots of anxiety about trusting them with a big trip like this. Just a few examples - I signed up for the trip well over a year in advance, and was told that the final payment would be due 4 month before the travel date. That date came and went with no communication. I was hesitant to book my international flights without having some confirmation of the trip and dates, but my emails to them - even to the owner - went unanswered. I tried to have them plan an extension to the trip and got a 25-page proposal that was just a mess of cut and pasted information from hotel websites. Followup emails and calls to refine it went unreturned for over a week. Transfer information was given to me 2 days before we left. I was sent generalized pre-departure information and a packing list the day before we left. Really? My bags were already packed. What was the point? When we met up with the group in Chile, everyone had the same experience. Poor communication. Unresolved details. By contrast, another agent who I contacted to plan my trip extension had the whole 9-day trip planned, itinerary finalized, and paid for within a week of my contacting them - and every communication was returned within an hour or two. There are lots of travel companies out there. I would never recommend Lost World Adventures.

Date of experience : August 16, 2019

Wonderful experiences

We have travelled with Lost World Adventures many times over the years and been to so many places we would never have imagined possible. Wonderful, knowledgable guides booked by Lost World who went the extra mile with help and information. Great feeling of being adventurous and yet knew we were in capable hands ! Thank you so much and look forward to another trip soon.

Date of experience : July 04, 2016

For our trip to Costa Rica

For our trip to Costa Rica, Lost World arranged for great lodges, good travel connections and a well organized itinerary. We had a limited amount of time, did not fit into any of the scheduled trips and were only 2 people. They catered our trip to top of the line locations and housing. Always make sure to let them know what you are interested in and what level of comfort you require, and discuss your preferences in planning.

Date of experience : January 01, 2020

Amazing trip to Peru!

Our family just returned from a fantastic 2 week vacation in Peru - we went to Machu Picchu (hiked inca trail), Cusco and Lake Titicaca. Andrew & Lost World Adventures created a seamless trip for us - with all the details covered we were able to truly enjoy our vacation and not stress at all about how to get to the various destinations. We had great tour guides that really enriched our experience. It was also great to pay upfront and then not hassle with money & exchange rates for all the activities. First rate all the way!!

Date of experience : August 03, 2016

Lost World Adventures

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112 Church St

Decatur, GA 30030

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About the Business

Business owner information

Andrew and Beth G.

Business Owner

For 30 years, Lost World Adventures has planned the best of the world to its guests. Each travel itinerary is carefully crafted after a free consultation. Our local guides are some of the best in the business and possess extensive knowledge of their culture, landscape, and area resources. Accommodations range from rustic eco-camps to luxury boutique hotels. The needs of our guests will be incorporated to suit whatever degree of wanderlust is desired. …

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I put down $1,000 for a Belize trip and never heard from them again. This was after 2 amazing Costa Rica trips they planned. I am upset that I lost $1,000 and Andreas didn't have the gall to contact me back after many tries. I guess this set int be my way with Latin American travel as I hoped it would be.

Are they out of business? Had a trip to Patagonia planned for October 2021 - then suddenly Andrew and team went dark. No replies to many emails and phone calls. Nothing!!

WARNING!!! Do not book with this company. The owner Andrew Gilchrist can't be trusted. I enlisted the help of this company to plan a trip to Argentina and Chile for March/April 2020. They put together a nice itinerary for which we paid around $15,000. Then COVID hit and derailed our planned trip, but I did not cancel, I chose to postpone. The owner and I decided to postpone to October 2020, this conversation took place mid April 2020. A couple of days after this conversation the owner of the company stoped all communications. They are listing on the website that they are open, but no one will answer the phone or call back and no email returned either (keep in mind he was very responsive before). Please don't book with this company and if you are someone with my story please share so we don't have more people losing their hard earned money.

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Let's help you plan the memorable trip and it cost you nothing. We will work with you and match the travel with your vision. Call us today 678-563-1409 read more

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"Travel company specializing in European trips, with main destinations including Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Germany, Portugal, Austria, Switzerland, Ireland, U.K., Iceland, Scandinavia, the Netherlands, etc. We're native… read more

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Lost World Adventures itineraries with tour and excursion menus

Welcome to Buenos Aires…Lima…Rio de Janeiro…Cartagena…Havana…Marrakech…

So what do you have planned? 

It is no longer sufficient to book a general city tour and call it a day. Major destination cities have so much to offer – offbeat neighborhoods, music venues, museums, art galleries, outlying towns, shopping, locals-only spots. How can you make the most of a few days there? Want to get off the tourist trail and meet locals? After an orientation city tour the options depend on who you are and where your interests lie.  

To help give our clients a good headstart Lost World Adventures’ itineraries include links to menus of our day tours and trips for many of the destinations we offer.  You can then decide for yourself what to do on any given day.

In addition to the general city tour, themes can include history, architecture, local music, food and wine, markets, shopping. Active excursions can include hiking, biking, kayaking, horseback riding.

In Buenos Aires you may choose from more than 30 different tours and excursions, from Palermo walking tours to neighborhood biking tours, cooking classes and wine tastings, themed city tours (history, architecture, archaeology, literature, Evita Peron), tango (dinner shows, lessons, escorted visits to milongas), kayaking the Parana River delta, day trips to estancias and Colonia del Sacramento.  

Check out the menu here - Buenos Aires Tours & Excursions    

Bariloche and the Argentina Lake District – take the panoramic Grand Circuit or the “Route of the Seven Lakes” to San Martin de Los Andes, get above the tree line on the Cerro Bella Vista Hike or the climb to the Frey Refugio, kayak on the alpine lakes Mascardi or Guillelmo, descend Cerro Otto by bike.  Take a leisurely boat trips on Lake Nahuel Huapi to the Arrayanes Forest or Isla Victoria. The Lake District is a haven for fly fishing.

From Hosteria Pampa Linda there is a network of trails you can explore on foot or horseback. Easy day hikes to nearby waterfalls or the Ventisquero Negro Glacier, or more challenging hikes to the Otto Meiling refugio on Mount Tronador. Pampa Linda organizes half-day, full-day and multi-day horseback rides.

Bariloche and the Argentina Lake District Tours & Excursions

Here are links to excursion menus for other destinations.  This is a work-in-progress with more excursion menus to come.  

Santiago and the Central Valleys – themed city tours, wineries, Valparaiso and Vina del Mar

Chile Lake District – all the attractions of the Argentina side plus Chiloe Island.

Rio de Janeiro – Corcovado, Sugarloaf, Tijuca National Park, Ilha Grande, favelas, hang gliding, samba shows.

Lima – museums, cooking and market tours, neighborhood biking tours of Miraflores and San Isidro, Nazca Lines day trip. Lima has become a world gastronomic capital – we can make recommendations and reservations.

Cusco – city tours of the Inca capital and the nearby ruins of Puka-Pukara, Qenqo, Tambo Machay, and the renowned fortress of Sacsayhuaman overlooking Cusco and the surrounding valley.

…and the Sacred Valley – Pisac and Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, Maras and Moray, day hikes, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, ziplines, horseback riding.

Check out our "Things to do in Peru" pages for more travel ideas for your trip to Peru. 

Arenal Volcano National Park – Hanging Bridges, SkyTram & SkyTrek, Mundo Aventura Canopy Horseback riding tour, Lake Arenal kayaking, La Fortuna Waterfall, Tabacon Hot Springs, whitewater rafting on the Rio Balsa, waterfall rappelling, day hikes, Penas Blancas float trip.

Havana, Cuba – architecture, music and dance, Cuban food tours, our Havana Mafia Tour, day trip to the Viñales Valley, the Hemingway tour. In addition to our tours we offer an extensive list of suggested restaurants and dance clubs.

Ambergris Caye, Belize – world-class flats fishing, sailing, Scuba diving or snorkeling along the second largest barrier reef in the world.

So when you are planning a trip with Lost World Adventures we will design an itinerary with plenty of options for the activities you want, not what we think you will want. We hope this will help our clients make the most of their time, see and do what they want to see and do.

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Lost World Expedition

Into morocco.

I think the borders of Central America have left a lasting impression on us. Every time we are getting ready Continue Reading

To Blog Or Not To Blog, That Is The Question

In 2014, just after shipping our Landcruiser back from South America, we got an email from our web host telling Continue Reading

The Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

I remember, what seems like a lifetime ago, when we were saving and planning for this trip reading the blogs Continue Reading

A Visit to Minka Market and a Cooking Class in Lima, Peru

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The Great Wall of Peru, The Ruins of Kuelap

Our original plan was a 4 day hike/horseback ride to the pre-Inca ruins of Kuelap, but 2 days into the Continue Reading

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Making every day an adventure!

Lost Word Adventures was born in 2010 from the passion from many years of vehicle travel.

This experience of vehicle travel has taken us to many places through Europe and beyond allowing us to share this experience with other's, making our tours a relaxing adventure, taking you to the most amazing places and driving some of the best driving roads giving us the ingredients needed to be in the mix to make your Driving Holiday one to remember.

You don't need to be a petrol head to enjoy a driving holiday. Yes it helps, but with the epic roads and beautiful Vista's you'll find yourself immersed in enjoyment throughout your journey,

Along with making some fantastic new friends, which with our 90% customer return rate your be sure to meet again when you come back for more adventures as many others are.

From overland family friendly tours with a forever updating list of new destinations and adventures. to carefully curated epic car and motorcycle journeys of for like minded people, carefully chosen routes to savour the local culture. delicous food and wonderful attractions on-route,

Our road tours we'll take you to drive the popular ‘bucket-list' roads. but we'll also take you to other stunning not so well known roads.

Overland and Expedition , specialising in Morocco, we are proud to offer exciting overland family friendly tours using our vehicle to travel and explore off the beaten track, using where possible the network of trails, tracks and unmade roads to visit them out of the way places.

Scenic Road trips, both Motorcycle and Car tours from our carefully curated journeys for like minded people, carefully chosen routes to savour the local culture. delicous food and wonderful attractions on-route,

Scenic Road trips and 4x4 Overland tours.

View our list of Overland tours

View our list of Scenic Road Trips

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7 of the best Maya ruins to visit in Mexico

Remnants of ancient civilisations still stand across Central America — and well-preserved temples and jungle-cloaked pyramids are open to visitors across southern Mexico.

Before the Spanish colonised Central America in the 16th century, the ancient Maya were one of the most sophisticated civilisations in the Western Hemisphere. They developed a complex calendar system through their knowledge of astrology and mathematics, used intricate hieroglyphics to record their history and built large, lavishly decorated cities, complete with pyramids, temples, and plazas.

At its height, the ancient Maya civilisation comprised 40 cities across Central America, spanning southern Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Belize, El Salvador and Nicaragua. In the southern Mexican states of Yucatán, Quintana Roo and Chiapas, many of these settlements — the largest housed up to 50,000 people — still stand today, offering visitors a unique insight into the social, cultural and religious lives of the ancient Maya.

From carefully reconstructed sites like Chichen Itza to the wild, jungle-clad pyramids and ceremonial temples of Calakmul, these are the ancient Maya ruins not to miss in southern Mexico.

1. Chichen Itza

Named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, the beautifully preserved Chichen Itza in Yucatán is Mexico’s most famous Maya ruin. Despite the crowds, few are disappointed with El Castillo — a carefully restored pyramid that rises up 80ft and has 365 steps — or the city’s tlachtli , the largest Maya ball court in the Americas.

Occupied until the 16th century, Tulum was one of the last cities inhabited by the Maya and the only one built by the coast. The pyramids here aren’t as large as other Maya ruins in Mexico, but the setting, on 40ft-high cliffs above turquoise Caribbean waters south of Cancun, more than makes up for it.

Home to the tallest pyramid in the state of Quintana Roo, Cobá was once one of the most important Maya cities in Yucatán. Located around 30 miles west of Tulum ruins, the city was built in around 600 CE and it eventually grew to 50,000 inhabitants. Though much of Cobá has yet to be excavated, travellers can climb the 138ft-high Nohoch Mul — a pyramid that offers sweeping views over the Yucatán jungle. Cobá is also known for its sophisticated sacbe,   or ‘white road’2,   network —   limestone pathways that connect the city to neighbouring settlements.

4. Palenque

Deep in the jungles of northeastern Chiapas state in southern Mexico lies Palenque , a Late Classic Maya city known for its detailed hieroglyphic inscriptions and sculpted reliefs. These highly sophisticated designs have helped archaeologists understand more of the ancient Maya's history, mythology and calendar systems.

5. Calakmul

Cloaked by the second-largest expanse of tropical forests in the Americas, in Campeche’s Calakmul Biosphere Reserve near the border with Guatemala, Calakmul is one of Mexico’s wildest Maya ruins. It has the largest and tallest pyramid in Yucatán and more than 6,000 structures, many of them covered by jungle. The site is particularly beautiful at sunrise, when the surrounding jungle comes alive with birdsong, howler monkeys and, if you’re lucky, the roar of a jaguar.

6. Ek Balam

Around 25 miles north of the Yucatán city of Valladolid is Ek Balam , which means ‘black jaguar’ or ‘jaguar star’ in the Yucatec Maya language. The city reached its height in the eight century, when more than 20,000 people lived here. Its largest pyramid is 160 metres long and 105ft high, and contains the tomb of Ukit Kan Le´t Tok, the king of Ek Balam between 770 CE and around 797 CE. Archaeologists found the ruler buried with more than 7,000 pieces of jade, bone, ceramic, shell and precious metal, and the outside walls decorated with stone jaguars, winged creatures and human skulls.

A one-hour drive from the Yucatán capital of Merida is this seventh-century Maya city, once large enough to house 25,000 inhabitants. The Uxmal ruins are part of the Ruta Puuc, a 25-mile road network that connects Uxmal with the archaeological sites of Kabah, Sayil, Xlapak, Labná, Oxkintok, Grutas de Calcehtok and Grutas de Loltún.

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The Lost World of Tofalaria

2 Comments · Posted by Sergei Rzhevsky in Nature , Regions , Travel

Today, in the world there are only about 800 representatives of the indigenous Siberian nation of the Tofalars. Once nomads, most of them live compactly in three villages in the Nizhneudinsky district of the Irkutsk region .

This very beautiful and isolated mountainous region located in the Eastern Sayan mountain system in the south of Siberia is called Tofalaria. You can get to it only by air. Tofalaria on Google Maps . Photos by: Slava Stepanov .

Everything needed in the villages of Tofalaria is supplied by air. The helicopter flies once a week.

Children from Tofalar villages return home after taking exams.

The Uda River.

Many areas of the taiga with mountain ranges in these places are virtually impassable.

Pionerskaya Mountain near the village of Alygdzher.

Until 1948, in Tofalaria, industrial gold mining was conducted. Later, the region turned into a fully subsidized area.

The village of Alygdzher located on the right bank of the Uda River, 93 kilometers south-west of Nizhneudinsk.

The maximum height of the Eastern Sayan is about 3.5 kilometers. But for the most part it is a variety of rocks a few hundred meters high.

The tributary of the Uda – the Nerkha River.

The village of Nerkha with the population of about 200 people. Tofalar villages were formed in the 1920s, when the Soviet government decided that nomadic reindeer herders should become settled residents.

The village of Verkhnyaya Gutara with the population of about 400 people.

The bridge over the Gutara River.

This is a stunningly beautiful land, however there are practically no tourists here.

Tags:  Irkutsk oblast

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Jerry Stefanovic · November 8, 2019 at 12:41 am

Stunning beauty! Thank You Sergei!!

Matthew · December 27, 2023 at 6:49 am

Lovely, that place is really out in the sticks must be a interesting visit.

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Love Exploring

Fairy-Tale Places Around The World You Can ACTUALLY Visit

Posted: April 28, 2024 | Last updated: April 28, 2024

Fact or fiction?

Ever wished you could visit the locations of your favorite ancient myths and legends, or even modern works of fiction? From the mystery of the lost city of Atlantis and the enigma of the Bermuda Triangle to the well-loved tales of legendary warrior King Arthur and fairy-tale heroine Sleeping Beauty, we've tracked down the places steeped in legend that you can actually visit. They are all sure to capture your imagination.

Ready to explore? Click through the gallery to discover some of the world's most fantastical places you can see in real life...

Harry Potter's Hogwarts Express

The steam train that chugs to JK Rowling’s fictional Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry is real. Passengers board at Fort William and Mallaig and ride the train (called The Jacobite in the muggle world) through 84 glorious miles of Scottish countryside.

The stunning 100-foot (30m), 21-arch viaduct in the Harry Potter films isn’t clever CGI trickery either. It would be hard to imagine a more beautiful natural setting for the sweeping Glenfinnan Viaduct than Loch Shiel and the surrounding green rolling hills of the Scottish Highlands.

Mount Doom, the volcano where the One Ring was forged and eventually destroyed, looms large in the mythology of JRR Tolkien’s Middle Earth. Mount Ngauruhoe, on the north island of New Zealand, depicted the brooding Mount Doom in  The Lord of the Rings  cinematic trilogy.

Although it hasn’t erupted since 1795, Mount Ngauruhoe is an active stratovolcano that can be explored from the famous Tongariro Crossing, which takes a day to trek. The 7,500-foot (2,286m) crater is the highest point in Tongariro National Park and hiking within the rugged volcanic landscape shouldn’t be underestimated.

The Lost World

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s 1912 novel  The Lost World  imagines a lonely plateau in South America where dinosaurs and ape-men roam. The flat-topped Mount Roraima is said to be the inspiration for his work.

The peak of Mount Roraima is often shrouded in cloud, and local indigenous tribes once believed it was home to the mother goddess. Located in Venezuela, close to the border with Brazil, the remote mountain can be explored on a week-long hike with a guide.

The Gates of Hell

A roaring chasm known as the ‘Door to Hell’ or the ‘Gates of Hell’ has been burning for more than 50 years in north Turkmenistan. Though technically called the Darvaza gas crater, the locals prefer its more vivid nicknames. Visitors can walk right up to the edge to peer into the fiery abyss.

Debate rages as to how this burning pit in a barren desert was created, but it’s definitely a man-made phenomenon, possibly caused by a drilling rig collapsing in the natural gas fields. Its days could be numbered, however: in January 2022, President Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov ordered the government of Turkmenistan to begin researching how to put the fire out.

Sleeping Beauty's Castle

Ludwig II, King of Bavaria, envisioned Neuschwanstein Castle “breathing the air of heaven.” Perched high in the German Alps, the Romanesque Neuschwanstein is a fantastical fairy-tale castle.

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Neuschwanstein was the inspiration for the soaring spires and turrets of Sleeping Beauty Castle, located within Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California. At Neuschwanstein, visitors can explore the vast rooms, with their ornate wall hangings and opulent chandeliers, but only as part of a guided tour.

The Bermuda Triangle

The baffling disappearance of several ships and planes in a section of the Atlantic Ocean provoked one of the most enduring mysteries of the modern age. Also known as the Devil’s Triangle, the Bermuda Triangle covers a section of the ocean between Miami, Bermuda and Puerto Rico. Notable disappearances include the USS Cyclops, a 542-foot-long (165m) Navy cargo ship that vanished somewhere between Barbados and Chesapeake Bay in 1918, with over 300 men on board.

The British overseas territory of Bermuda is also famous for its shorts, golf resorts and pink sand beaches. But it's the enigma of missing vessels that has proved its most infamous defining character. For anyone intrigued by these mysterious disappearances in the deep, shipwreck diving off Bermuda is highly recommended. The islands lay claim to more wrecks per square mile around their waters than anywhere in the world.

Santa’s grotto

Reindeer sleigh rides along snowy forest tracks, games with jovial elves, snow-topped log cabins and a visit to meet Santa himself – a trip to Lapland is likely to make any child’s dreams come true. This stunning region north of the Arctic Circle spans Norway, Sweden, Finland and Russia, and is home to the indigenous Sami people. It’s also a veritable winter wonderland – all snowy forests, frozen lakes and vast expanses of tundra.

There are a number of places where you can visit Santa’s grotto, but Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Finland is the most established. Older kids may not be as excited by a meeting with the jolly old elf, but they’ll love the other fun-filled activities on offer in this winter playground – you can go dog sledding, join snowmobile safaris and stomp into the wintry landscape on a snowshoe adventure.

Home of the Greek gods

Sacred Mount Olympus was the legendary home of the mighty Zeus, king of the gods, and 12 other Olympian gods and goddesses. Today the prized peak is surrounded by Olympus National Park, which has some fantastic walks – including trails up the mountain for serious hikers. Not up for scaling the mythical mount? Then don’t miss a visit to the fascinating archaeological park and museum at Dion, situated at the foot of Olympus.

Olympus is the highest mountain in Greece and was greatly revered in ancient times. Its summit, Mytikas, was known as the Pantheon by the ancient Greeks and it was here that the capricious deities were said to convene to discuss and squabble over celestial matters and humankind. The nine muses were believed to reside at the foot of the mountain.

Robin Hood's Sherwood Forest

Walk in the footsteps of legendary outlaw Robin Hood and his band of merry men as you explore the ancient woods of Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire. Designated as a royal hunting forest by William the Conqueror, the wooded area was a popular hunting ground for many Norman kings, including King John and Edward I. The ruins of King John’s hunting lodge can be seen near the settlement of Kings Clipstone.

In the 1200s, where most tales place Robin Hood, Sherwood Forest spanned about 100,000 acres, which was around a fifth of the entire county of Nottinghamshire. Meanwhile, its oak and birch woodland would have been the perfect place for fugitives to hide out. Be sure to visit the large English oak tree, known as the Major Oak, that's between 800 and 1,000 years old and was allegedly where Robin and his merry men took shelter.

While it’s uncertain whether or not Robin Hood actually existed, the folk hero has enduring appeal and there are numerous places throughout Nottinghamshire and beyond associated with the legendary figure. Nottingham Castle, one-time home to the villainous Sheriff of Nottingham, is one of them. But you can find out all about the man himself and other hidden histories of the city as you explore its underground caves, Old County Gaol and medieval streets.

Peter Pan's Neverland

"Second to the right, and straight on till morning" is where you’ll find Neverland. Or so Peter Pan tells Wendy. But its real-world location is a lot closer to home: Eilean Shona, a tiny isle on the west coast of Scotland, is thought to have inspired JM Barrie's fantastical land. The Scottish playwright and author rented the island for a vacation and wrote the play Peter Pan; or, the Boy Who Wouldn't Grow Up  while staying here. It’s now an exclusive island retreat, owned by the Devereux-Branson family, so you can stay there too.

You can imagine Captain Hook’s Jolly Roger dropping anchor in the craggy coves, mermaids lounging by the rockpools and fairies fluttering in the enchanting forests as you roam around this car-free isle. In reality, though, you’re more likely to spot red deer, otters, porpoises, seals, pine martens, sea eagles and red squirrels. 

King Arthur's home

Scattered around a rocky headland on the north Cornish Coast, the spectacular sight of the ruins of Tintagel Castle is enough to rouse anyone’s imagination. This mystical place is positively steeped in myths and legends, most notably those linked to King Arthur. It gained this literary fame in the 12th century thanks to cleric Geoffrey of Monmouth, who named Tintagel as the place where the legendary king of the Dark Ages was conceived.

The existence of the so-called “once and future king” is questionable, but the legend has captured imaginations since the Middle Ages. Tintagel’s association with Arthurian legends is thought to have inspired Richard, Earl of Cornwall to build a castle here in 1230. A rocky inlet below the castle, meanwhile, has been known as Merlin’s Cave since Victorian poet Alfred Tennyson's retelling of the legend, in which Merlin used a passageway below the castle to carry away the infant Arthur.

Iron-age fort Cadbury Castle in Somerset also has links to Arthurian legends, having been touted as a possible location for his court Camelot. Either way, the stunning site is a fascinating place to visit and commands wonderful views over the rolling hills and across to Glastonbury Tor, itself linked to myth as the site of the isle of Avalon. Glastonbury Abbey, meanwhile, has been suggested as the king’s final resting place.

Lost city of Atlantis

Atlantis, Plato’s legendary lost continent that sank into the ocean overnight, has captured people’s imaginations for thousands of years, prompting numerous theories as to where the ruins lie. The cataclysmic volcanic eruption that obliterated Santorini (Thera) and totally eradicated Akrotiri, a thriving Bronze Age settlement, could well have inspired the Greek philosopher's writings. Today, the volcanic island’s caldera is one of the most beautiful sights in the Cyclades.

The rugged and remote mid-Atlantic archipelago of the Azores has also been connected to Plato’s enigmatic lost city, as have the Strait of Gibraltar (thanks to the discovery of large stone anchors underwater), the Canary Islands and Antarctica. Most scholars concur, however, that the sunken civilization was more likely a literary invention to convey his philosophical theories.

Homer’s vivid depiction of this impenetrable walled city – which was besieged for 10 years after Paris stole away Helen from Menelaus, King of Sparta – is an appealing one. It’s widely agreed that there was a real ancient city known as Troy, whose ruins remain on the northwest coast of Turkey, but it’s disputed as to whether the Trojan Wars actually happened.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site at Hisarlik, on Turkey’s Aegean coast, has been associated with Troy since ancient times and is the most likely inspiration for Homer's  The Iliad, the epic poem which detailed how the Greeks sacked the city via their cunning and a wooden horse. The multi-layered ruins, which sit on a strategic point at the southern entrance of the Dardanelles, show evidence of various settlements that date back almost 4,000 years.

Calypso’s cave

Homer's other epic poem,  The Odyssey , describes many mythical places, including the enchanted island of Ogygia. It was home to the nymph Calypso, who fell in love with Greek hero Odysseus and held him captive there for many years. Some theories place Gozo as the inspiration for the fictional island. See for yourself on a visit to the place where the bewitched sailor was allegedly imprisoned. Calypso Cave is set inside a cliff overlooking the island’s ravishing Ramla Bay.

Another bewitching isle which lays claim to being the home of Homer’s seductress is Mljet in Croatia. The so-called Odysseus Cave, an oval-shaped craggy crevice, can be found on the southern coast of the island near the village of Babino Polje. It’s possible to take a boat inside the grotto, or you can swim your way in. Visit at midday to see the water and cave light up spectacularly as the sunlight floods in. An epic sight indeed.

The “stately pleasure-dome” immortalized in romantic poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s poem  Kubla Khan  was also a real place. Xanadu was the sprawling summer capital of Mongol ruler Kublai Khan (grandson of Ghengis) who established the Yuan dynasty in the 13th century, which went on to rule China for over a hundred years. The remains of the once-grand palace are located in China’s inner Mongolia region and are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Shambhala or Shangri-La

The spiritual concept of a hidden land peopled by a mystic brotherhood is a cornerstone of the Tibetan Buddhism tradition, and the mythical kingdom of Shambhala has fascinated countless authors, including James Hilton, whose 1933 novel  Lost Horizon depicted a mountainous utopia enclosed somewhere in the western end of the Kunlun Mountains. A town in China’s Yunnan province renamed itself Shangri-La in 2001 to associate itself with the legend. While its historic claims are questionable, it’s home to the impressive Ganden Sumtseling (pictured), a vast Tibetan monastery established by the fifth Dalai Lama in 1679.

Described as “the loveliest mountain on Earth... an almost perfect cone of snow, a dazzling pyramid so radiant, so serenely poised that it scarcely seemed to be real” by historian Michael Wood, the real-world location of this utopia has fascinated many. He suggested in a BBC documentary that Hilton’s Shangri-La could have been the abandoned city of Tsaparang, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Guge in Tibet. But whether or not there was an actual place remains up for debate.

Dracula's castle

The mysterious residence of Bram Stoker's Count Dracula in Transylvania, a region steeped in centuries-old tales of vampires and werewolves, is one of the greatest Gothic literary creations. The imposing 14th-century fortress Bran Castle near Brasov has become associated with the Victorian novel mostly due to its location and wonderful architecture, which ticks all the Gothic boxes. It's now one of the top tourist destinations in Romania.

Dracula’s castle

While Stoker didn’t actually visit Romania, he drew inspiration from notorious 15th-century Wallachian nobleman Vlad Dracula, also known as Vlad the Impaler, for his portrait of the blood-sucking count. Bran Castle's connections to Vlad Dracula are highly tenuous but its formidable turrets and towers will stoke your imagination, as will the wilderness of Transylvania's Carpathian Mountains, where wolves, lynx and brown bears still roam.

Home of the Pied Piper, Rapunzel and more

Follow in the footsteps of Cinderella, the seven dwarves and Hansel and Gretel along the German Fairy Tale Route, which promises a magical journey around some of the regions and places that inspired the Grimm Brothers’ fairy tales. You can visit their boyhood home, a pretty timbered house in the little town of Steinau that’s now a museum (pictured), and see the brothers’ annotated copy of their fairy tales at the museum in Kassel, where they later lived.

With its picturesque towers, medieval Trendelburg Castle, near Kassel, was reputedly the inspiration behind the Grimms' tale of Rapunzel. Head here at 3pm and you’ll see the long-locked captive princess make an appearance at the window of the tallest tower. The castle is now a hotel.

Venture cautiously into the woods on the Grimmsteig walking trail, which leads out from Kassel, to follow a path through the swathe of ancient beech trees that could be straight out of a storybook. You can imagine a cast of fairy-tale villains lurking behind the gnarly trees as you skip through these thoroughly enchanting forests. Just don't forget the breadcrumbs.

From magical forests to medieval streets, the route will also take you into the fabled town of Hamelin in Lower Saxony. All crooked timbered houses and little lanes, the town embraces its fame as the setting for the tale of the Pied Piper of Hamelin. You can follow rat trails that mark the way to various Piper-themed attractions, including a wonderful museum dedicated to the fable with a clever mechanical installation that brings it to life.

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Now discover more fantastic fairy-tale towns around the world

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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

Where to stay in moscow, moscow itinerary, day 1 itinerary in moscow, day 2 itinerary in moscow, day 3 and beyond, staying safe in moscow, day trips from moscow, faq on moscow itinerary.

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!

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.

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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 .

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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!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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Introducing Moscow Vnukovo International Airport

• About Moscow Vnukovo International Airport

Book your flight

About Moscow Vnukovo International Airport (VKO)

The closest of three international airports to Moscow city centre, Moscow Vnukovo International Airport is the third busiest airport in Russia. Our Moscow Vnukovo International Airport guide includes information regarding airport facilities, public transport access and nearby accommodation options.

Airport news:

There are plans to extend the Metro network to the Moscow Vnukovo International Airport, via Kievskaya station, due for completion by 2019

Information:

There are information desks on the ground floor of the international and domestic terminals (Terminals B and D respectively).

Driving directions:

The most straightforward route to Moscow Vnukovo International Airport from central Moscow is to follow Leninsky Avenue southwest from the city centre. This intersects after about 15km (9 miles) with the MKAD Vneshnyaya Storona outer ring road, and becomes the M3 motorway. Moscow Vnukovo International Airport has a dedicated exit from the M3. The total drive time from central Moscow to the airport is approximately 45 minutes.

Transfer between terminals:

The terminals are adjacent to each other, and are connected by covered walkways.

Airport Info

Moscow Vnukovo International Airport is situated 30km (18.5 miles) southwest of central Moscow.

+7 495 937 5555

Public Transport

Public transport road:.

Bus: Regular buses (buses 611 and 611c) operate to and from the central Yugo-Zapadnaya metro station, about 35-40 minutes from Moscow Vnukovo International Airport. Bus stops are located behind the car parks, opposite Terminal D.

Shuttle: The 705M shuttle bus route operates from Moscow’s Oktyabr'skaya metro station (on the Circle Line) to Moscow Vnukovo International Airport (journey time: 35-40 minutes).

Taxi: Taxis are available 24 hours a day from the terminals. The journey time into the city varies from 40 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic (rush hour is very busy in Moscow). It’s highly recommended to use only official taxis that are booked at the airport taxi counters. These desks can be found close to the exits of each terminal.

Public transport rail:

Rail: The Aeroexpress train (tel: +7 800 700 3377; www.aeroexpress.ru ) operates from Moscow Vnukovo International Airport to Moscow's Kievsky Station. Services run in both directions from 0530 to midnight (journey time: 35 minutes). The railway station is located adjacent to the car parks, near Terminals A and D.

Terminal facilities

ATMs and currency exchange facilities are available in the terminals.

There are a number of cafés and restaurants at Moscow Vnukovo International Airport: in the public area and after security in all three terminals. There are also bars and cocktail lounges where passengers can enjoy a pre-flight drink.

The various shops at Moscow Vnukovo International Airport include gift shops and newsagents. Duty-free is available in the departures area of Terminal A.

Luggage storage services can be found on the lower floor of Terminal A. Trolleys can be used free of charge. Lost luggage services operate in Terminal A (tel: +7 495 436 2932 [international flights]; or: + 7 495 436 4513 [domestic flights]) and Terminal B (tel: +7 495 436 2925).

Other facilities at Moscow Vnukovo International Airport include nursery areas, slot machines and a first aid service. Medical centres (tel: +7 495 436 6189) can be found on the first level of Terminal D and the second level of Terminal A.

Airport facilities

Conference and business:.

TThere are no conference facilities at Moscow Vnukovo International Airport, however, it is possible to reserve a cocktail lounge with a capacity of 12-24 people, and there are three VIP lounge in Terminal B offering a range of business services.

For more extensive facilities, a meeting room for up to 20 delegates and a conference hall for up to 120 guests are available at the Park Inn (tel: +7 495 594 1600; www.parkinn.com ), which is about 15 minutes away from the airport via a free shuttle.

Communication Facilities:

Paid-for Wi-Fi internet access is available throughout Moscow Vnukovo International Airport. There are also internet cafés in the terminal buildings.

Disabled facilities:

Moscow Vnukovo International Airport is accessible for wheelchair users, with ramps and lifts. For further assistance, contact the dedicated airport accessibility service (tel: +7 495 436 6189); or for help boarding and disembarking, passengers are advised to contact their airline (in advance of travel).

Car parking:

There are two multi-storey car parks with capacities for 350 vehicles at Moscow Vnukovo International Airport, as well as open-air car parks nearby for another 200 cars. Long- and short-term rates are available at these car parks. All parking areas are located immediately opposite Terminal D.

Car rental:

Hertz operates from Moscow Vnukovo International Airport – the car hire desk is located on level 2 of Terminal D.

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• Moscow Tours

Our 20 Best Moscow Tours of 2022

Join us on an unforgettable tour to Moscow, the capital of Russia. Imagine visiting Red Square, St. Basil’s the Kremlin and more. Moscow is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and one of Russia’s most historical. All of our tours to Moscow are fully customizable and can be adjusted to fit any budget. Our most popular tours are listed below. Please click on the tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page. You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Classic Moscow

This is our most popular Moscow tour that includes all the most prominent sights. You will become acquainted with ancient Russia in the Kremlin, admire Russian art in the Tretyakov Gallery, listen to street musicians as you stroll along the Old Arbat street, and learn about Soviet times on the Moscow Metro tour.

Accommodation

PRIVATE TOUR

A Week in Moscow

This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing.

Weekend in Moscow

This tour is a great way to get acquainted with the capital of Russia if you are short of time. You will see all the main attractions of the city, the most important of which is the Kremlin - the heart of Russia. The tour starts on Friday and can be combined with a business trip.

Group Tour Moscow Break by Intourist

Russia's capital has so much to offer, from the Kremlin and the Metro to the Old Arbat street and the Tretyakov Gallery. Besides these sites, you will also visit a fascinating country estate which today is quite off the beaten path, Gorky Estate, where the Soviet leader Lenin spent the last months of his life.

Kolomenskoye Tour with transport

The history of Kolomenskoye stretches back for centuries. In 1380, Dmitri Donskoi’s army passed through Kolomenskoye on their way to the Kulikovo battlefield, and it was...

Tours by car

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Armory Tour

The Kremlin is truly a fascinating structure, at the same time it is an ancient tower, the city’s former military fortification, a palace, an armory, the sovereign treasury...

Walking tours

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals, Armory, Diamond Fund Tour

Old Arbat walking tour

You will be told of the street’s interesting history and view the street’s artisan culture. You will also have the opportunity to view and purchase souvenirs from the...

Tour to Sergiev Posad with transport

Considered by some to be the Russian Vatican, Sergiev Posad is the temporary residence of the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Trinity St. Sergius Monastery (Lavra)...

Tour to Kuskovo with transport

The Kuskovo Estate often called the Moscow Versailles due to its perfectly preserved French park, is an example of an 18th century, luxurious Moscow summer residence. Its history...

Tour to Tsaritsyno with transport

The Tsaritsyno Estate is located in the southern part of Moscow. The estate was constructed for Catherine the Great by the Russian architects Bazhenov and Kazakov in a romantic...

Moscow Metro and Old Arbat Tour

The Moscow Metro is one of the largest and most grandly built metro systems in the world. It was meant to be a showcase of the Soviet Union’s achievements for both the Russians...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion and vodka tasting)

Vodka is an important component of Russian life, an element of national identity and everyday culture. We invite you to visit the Vodka Museum and feel the atmosphere of long-gone...

Mikhail Bulgakov Apartment Museum

This apartment museum located close to Patriarch Ponds became the prototype of the "bad apartment" described in the novel "The Master and Margarita." Currently the museum's...

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Diamond Fund Tour

The State Museum of Lev Tolstoy Tour

Take this opportunity to learn more about the Russian writer Lev Tolstoy. During the visit to the museum you will see part of a vast collection of exhibits connected to Tolstoy...

Novodevichy Convent Tour with transport

Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure...

City Tour with Visit to St. Basils & Red Sq. with transport

Panoramic City Tour. This Moscow tour is a great start to your trip and the best way to get acquainted with many of the city’s major highlights. Our professional guide will...

City Tour of Moscow

Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous...

Moscow Metro walking tour

Kremlin, Red Square and Cathedrals Tour

KGB Tour with transport

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to...

Soviet and Post-Soviet Moscow Tour

The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened...

Tretyakov State Gallery Tour

This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and...

Jewish Heritage of Moscow Tour

This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion only)

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

Tours to Moscow

Our Moscow tours are land only meaning that you arrange your own air travel to Russia and our expert staff meets you at the airport and handles everything else from there. Our online Airline Ticket booking system offers some of the most competitive rates to Russia available on the web so if you need tickets, please visit our Russian air ticket center . Rest assured that you will be taken great care of on one of our Moscow tours. Express to Russia has a fully staffed office in Moscow that will help to make your visit fun, informative and unforgettable. Please remember that of all these tours are private and can be adjusted to your taste. You can add, replace or skip some sights; you can add more days to the package or cut the tour short. Our specialists will be glad to help you create the tour of your dreams!

Moscow, a City Like No Other

Moscow is Russia’s largest city with a population of between 12 and 13 million. It is also Europe’s largest city and when you visit Moscow, you can feel it. The layout and architecture of the city is eclectic, ranging from crooked, ancient streets and alleyways to wide, bustling boulevards, from medieval churches to Stalin skyscrapers and to modern, glass buildings towering over everything and of course in the center of it all is the Kremlin and the magnificent Red Square. Moscow is also home to a fantastic, efficient and very beautiful metro system – each station having its own special design. In fact, Express to Russia’s Moscow metro tours and excursions are some of our most popular attractions that we offer. On our Moscow tours, you will see this and more.

Moscow Tours centering on Russian History

Moscow has a long and interesting history and has been the capital of Russia in many of its different iterations – capital of the Grand Duchy of Moscow , the Russian Empire and of course the Soviet Union (who could ever forget the Soviet Union?). Moscow, was founded in the 12th century by Prince Yuri Dolgaruki (Yuri of the long arms – he really did have long arms!). From that time on, it was home to the Russian Tsars until Peter the Great moved the capital to St. Petersburg in 1703. The city has survived invasions and sieges from the Mongols, the Tartars, the Poles, Lithuanians and Napoleon but has always persevered. Our Moscow tours will enlighten you on this great history and give you insights into Muscovites and their unique culture. Our Moscow tours show you what the city is like today but also brings to life the past. Moscow never seems to sleep and is bursting with energy. A Moscow tour with Express to Russia is truly the best way of getting to know Russia’s largest and most vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

What is the best time to visit moscow.

Any time of year is fine depending on what you plan to do. Summertime is pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city and its vibrant atmosphere, but Moscow will be much busier and accommodation is more expensive. Winter can be quite cold but beautiful nonetheless, and this is unproblematic if you intend to spend most of your trip in museums and galleries. There are also various festivals and events organised throughout the year. For more information about the best time to visit, read our guide

How many days are enough in Moscow?

If you plan your itinerary strategically and aren’t averse to a packed schedule, you can cover Moscow’s main sights over a long weekend. Most popular attractions are in the city centre, and the Moscow Metro allows you to cover much ground in a small amount of time. Ensure that your accommodation is fairly central and book tickets in advance, so that you can make the most of your days. For an informative and well-organised day out, check out our Moscow day tours with options to suit all interests.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

As Russia’s capital city, tourists are well accommodated in Moscow. There should be English-speaking staff in restaurants, bars, hotels, shops and attractions in tourist hotspots, and there are also English-speaking tourist police. Transport services have English translations on their maps and English announcements via intercom; alternatively, order taxis from the Yandex Taxi app (Russian Uber), though it’s unlikely that your taxi driver will speak English. If you get stuck and cannot communicate, it’s fine to use Google Translate.

Is it safe to travel to Moscow?

It is no less safe to travel to Moscow than to any European city if you exercise common sense and look after your belongings. As with every city some regions can be more unsavoury than others, but no tourist attractions are located there. The traffic in Moscow is notorious, so exercise caution when crossing roads. Do not take unlicensed taxis; book in advance or take public transport, which is widespread and perfectly safe. If you encounter any problems, look for the special tourist police who can help you. For more information, read our guide about staying safe in Russia .

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Airlines will now be required to give automatic cash refunds for canceled and delayed flights

FILE - Passenger drop off their baggage at United Airlines in C Terminal at George Bush Intercontinental Airport, Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023, in Houston. The Biden administration issued final rules Wednesday, April 24, 2024, to require airlines to automatically issue cash refunds for things like delayed flights and to better disclose fees for baggage or canceling a reservation. (Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle via AP, File)

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The Biden administration issued final rules Wednesday to require airlines to automatically issue cash refunds for things like delayed flights and to better disclose fees for baggage or canceling a reservation.

The Transportation Department said airlines will be required to provide automatic cash refunds within a few days for canceled flights and “significant” delays.

Under current regulations, airlines decide how long a delay must last before triggering refunds. The administration is removing that wiggle room by defining a significant delay as lasting at least three hours for domestic flights and six hours for international ones.

Airlines still will be allowed to offer another flight or a travel credit instead, but consumers can reject the offer.

The rule will also apply to refunds of checked-bag fees if the bag isn’t delivered within 12 hours for domestic flights or 15 to 30 hours for international flights. And it will apply to fees for things such as seat selection or an internet connection if the airline fails to provide the service.

Complaints about refunds skyrocketed during the COVID-19 pandemic, as airlines canceled flights and, even when they didn’t, many people didn’t feel safe sharing a plane cabin with other passengers.

Airlines for America, a trade group for large U.S. carriers, noted that refund complaints to the Transportation Department have fallen sharply since mid-2020. A spokesperson for the group said airlines “offer a range of options — including fully refundable fares — to increase accessibility to air travel and to help customers make ticket selections that best fit their needs.”

The group said the 11 largest U.S. airlines issued $43 billion in customer refunds from 2020 through 2023.

The Transportation Department issued a separate rule requiring airlines and ticket agents to disclose upfront what they charge for checked and carry-on bags and canceling or changing a reservation. On airline websites, the fees must be shown the first time customers see a price and schedule.

The rule will also oblige airlines to tell passengers they have a guaranteed seat they are not required to pay extra for, although it does not bar airlines from charging people to choose specific seats. Many airlines now charge extra for certain spots, including exit-row seats and those near the front of the cabin.

The agency said the rule will save consumers more than $500 million a year.

Airlines for America said its members “offer transparency and vast choice to consumers” from their first search.

The new rules will take effect over the next two years. They are part of a broad administration attack on what President Joe Biden calls “junk fees.” Last week, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg announced that his department will let state officials in 15 states help enforce federal airline consumer protection laws .

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Disney restaurant is first theme-park location to win michelin star: ‘magic rarely seen these days’.

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The Magic Kingdom now has Michelin magic, too.

Victoria & Albert’s at Disney Disney World’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is the first theme-park eatery to earn a Michelin star.

The restaurant at the “Happiest Place on Earth” offers two menus — a standard bill of fare at $295 and the chef’s tasting menu, which runs $395 per person.

The optional wine or zero-proof pairings start at $155 per guest.

The restaurant also offers water lists, an ornate coffee and tea service and a rare collection of more than 500 wines from 35 regions.

The Orlando spot has a strict semi-formal/formal dress code and doesn’t allow children under 10. 

And you can’t buy a Fast Pass for this location: a seat at the fine-dining oasis “is by no means an easy reservation,” according to the Michelin guide.

If you can’t make your exclusive reservation, a $100-per-person fee is applied for cancellations within five days of the reservation. 

“The setting is intimate, and the pacing is that of a leisurely, three-hour waltz orchestrated by a gracious brigade of veteran servers,” according to Michelin, which noted that the kitchen is helmed by chef Matthew Sowers, who “cooks with contemporary verve and draws on influences spanning from Asia to the Nordics.”

Although the Michelin judges approved of Victoria & Albert’s, many people online disagreed after learning of the high price tag.

Disney World guests blasted the theme park for jacking up the prices at its most expensive restaurant when it reopened in 2022 after the heights of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I’m sure it’s a great experience and super fancy, but no thanks. I’m out. No chance I’m spending $300 a person to eat some food,” one user  wrote on Reddit,  referring to the cheapest seven-course tasting menu option.

“Crazy overpriced,” another user griped. “Michelin star restaurants in NYC don’t even cost that much (except the very best, like Eleven Madison Park, which is ‘only’ $335).”

Post-pandemic, Disney raised prices across the board,  hiking the cost of admission, parking tickets, merchandise and food.

Customers griped in a  recent study that the Mouse House has “lost its magic”  as new data showed that tickets to Disney World and Disneyland theme parks have  climbed more than 3,871% in the past 50 years  — dwarfing increases in visitors’ wages, as well as the cost of rent and gas.

However, the Michelin judges disagreed with Victoria & Albert’s critics, claiming that it offers “a kind of magic rarely seen these days.”

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