Things to do in Moscow

Moscow is a city of extremes, freezing cold in the winter, scorching hot in the summer, age old traditions and modern ways. As a tourist destination, it is full of surprises and activities to keep visitors entertained.

Delve into the Past with the City's Museums

The Polytechnic Museum is said to be the oldest science museum in the world. It specialises in the technological and scientific achievements and developments of the country. The museum is divided into 3 sections, each adorned in its own style, displaying 160,000 items. The oldest section was built in 1877 and is decorated according to the Russian Byzantine era. The second section built in 1896 is based on 17th-century Russian styles and the most recent section, built in 1907, has an art nouveau feel.

Bunker 42 is a museum for the historically curious. 18 floors and 65 metres underground, this ex-military communications post is now a museum dedicated to the Cold War. The bunker also has conference halls, a restaurant, state of the art technology and lighting. It is the perfect location for the inquisitive historian.

Shopping

Since the collapse of communism, Muscovites have been making up for lost time by indulging in some serious shopping and spending. Local Russians shop in glamorous boutiques and huge modern shopping centres. Tsum and Gum are 2 of the largest shopping centres in the city. Both centres are packed with designer stores, luxury brands and popular high street shops. Old Arbat is a street that is home to many souvenir shops, popular restaurants, hip cafes, theatres and boutique stores. Traditional Russian souvenirs like Russian dolls, amber, ceramics and scarves can be purchased here.

Nightlife in the City

Moscow has long been known for offering a vast range of traditional performing arts, particularly the ballet, classical orchestra and the theatre. Catch a classical concert by the Moscow State Philharmonic at the Tchaikovsky Concert Hall, or if you are with your family, keep you eye open for special children's events. An evening spent at the spectacular Bolshoi Theatre promises to be an unforgettable experience. If you are looking for more modern approach to your evening, the city has a host of popular night spots. 16 tons is the place to go to see the best in local and international rock music talent, while Propaganda is an institution that has been showing locals and tourists a good time for years - a cafe by day and a boisterous club at night.

Tours

Taking a tour is one of the best ways to get to see parts of Moscow you might not know about. There are many tour operators offering trips to the Kremlin and Red Square, underground metro tours or walking tours. A different way to view the city is to take a mini cruise on the Moskva River, passing the famous landmarks like the State University.