General Considerations
Step1
Decide what time of year is right for your visit. Winters can be very cold, while summer temperatures average in the mid-70s in June, July and August.
Step2
Consider visiting between late spring and early fall. Many sights in Moscow can best be viewed by boat from the Moscow River, and a mild temperature is ideal for this type of excursion.
Step3
Check out festivals, expositions or live performances happening during your stay. Information about various events in Moscow can usually be obtained from the concierge at your hotel.
Step4
Take care of travel reservations before leaving home. If you don't mind cigarette smoke, Aeroflot is one of the cheapest airlines available. Also make sure to reserve a hotel room downtown and have the hotel arrange transportation for you from the airport.
Step5
Double-check the exchange rate before you leave home. Take a credit card, some traveler's checks and cash, because it is sometimes difficult to change money in Moscow.
Step6
Check the weather in Moscow just before you leave and add any additional items you may need. Pack a light jacket even in the summertime, as evenings near the river can be cool, and rainstorms spring up unexpectedly.
Seasonal Events and Attractions
Step1
Check out the unbelievable birthday bash thrown each year on the anniversary of the founding of Moscow. The "Day of the City," held the first weekend in September, draws large crowds to downtown Moscow with street performers, live concerts and great food.
Step2
Catch a performance at the world-renowned Bolshoi theater. If you are someone who appreciates the ballet, this may just be the highlight of your trip.
Step3
Stand in the middle of Red Square and marvel at its exquisite cobblestone beauty; it's bordered by the Kremlin, G.U.M. Department Store, the Lenin Mausoleum and St. Basil's Cathedral.
Step4
Splurge with a tour of St. Basil's, recognized throughout the world as epitomizing all things Russian. Be prepared to take plenty of pictures.
Step5
Tour the many museums and cathedrals inside the historic Moscow Kremlin. One ticket can be purchased for all the Kremlin attractions at the kiosk in Alexander Garden. Purchase individual tickets inside for everything except the cathedrals.
Step6
Shop at G.U.M. Department Store (actually a huge mall bordering one side of Red Square), Manezhnaya Square or Tverskaya Street - Moscow's own Magnificent Mile - where you will find every type of merchandise imaginable.
Comments
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 When flying to Russia, possibly the best airline to fly (in my experience) is CSA. The food is excellent (if you do not mind stopping off in the Prague airport for transfers). Be prepared to get transfered to a later flight if your plane is due to leave Prague at 5 or 6 local time.
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 While in Moscow, you can pick up a free copy of the "Moscow Times," an English language paper available in many shops and restaurants. It has valuable information on things to see and do, phone numbers, etc. - especially the Friday issue.