trek 3500 frame size

Your Bicycle Size Guide

Trek Bike Size Chart By Height In CM & Inches (Road Bike/MTB)

A Trek bike size guide is all you need when the search for the correct bicycle size is still on. Known to be the number 1 performance bike brand all over the globe, Trek has been stacked with powerful engineering and classy bikes.

There are many questions revolving around passionate fans of the brand with one of them being, what size Trek bike do I need?

Well, the answer is very simple. You will need to go through the charts below for a particular bike type and model you are looking for.

Trek size charts

Trek bike sizes can vary, and that can lead to more confusion among potential buyers. The below charts will help in choosing the right model according to your height and inseam.

Trek mountain bike size chart

Trek mountain bikes come in different categories and offer sizes for every individual, starting from extra small to extra large. Take a look at the tables below and select the ideal fit for yourself.

Category – Full suspension, Hardtails, Electric, Cross Country, Trail, Enduro, Downhill, Fat Bikes, and Fuel EXe (E-MTB)

Models/Series – Supercaliber, Top Fuel, X-Caliber, Procaliber, Farley, Roscoe, Marlin, Powerfly, Service, 820, Slash, Remedy, Fuel EX, and Session

Trek MTB Cross Country (820)

Trek e-mountain bike.

Models/Series – Powerfly, E-Caliber, and Rail

Trek road bike size chart

Road bikes are an essential part of the brand that caters to a wide range of audience, thanks to its diverse range of models. These Trek road bike size charts shall help you pick the right bicycle that can go a long way for an adventurous ride.

Category – Performance/Gravel

Models/Series – Madone, Emonda, and Domane

Category – Bikepacking/Cyclocross

Model/Series – 520 and 520 Grando

Models/Series – Checkpoint and Boone 6

Model Series – 1120

Trek electric road bike sizing

Models/Series – FX+, DUAL SPORT+, vEREVE+, and Allant+

Trek alpha sizing for MTB – what is it?

The old-school approach of measuring the frame size of Trek bikes is a thing of the past. With newer inventions and modern bike geometry, alpha sizing is used in place of numeric sizing on Trek mountain bikes.

Why is alpha sizing important?

1. Easier approach

Instead of using size numbers like 19.5, the sizes can be classified into S, M, ML, L, XL, and XXL. So, someone with a 17.5 size can go for the medium and a 19.5 is a large size. You don’t have to keep a tab on numbers; instead, the alphabet makes it easier.

2. Measurement based on reach

In earlier times the frame size measurement of Trek bikes was solely based on seat tube length. Things have changed, and modern mountain bike geometry focuses more on reach as of now. Hence, alpha sizing measures what matters and is a more simplified way of measuring bike size.

Trek sizing – virtual vs actual

This can puzzle you a bit as they both are somewhat similar yet there is a subtle difference. Actual size can be termed as the overall length of the seat tube from the center of the bottom bracket to the center of the top tube intersection with the centerline of the seat tube.

On the other hand, virtual sizing is the overall length of the seat tube ranging from the center of the bottom bracket to the mid-point of the imaginary horizontal top tube in which it connects with the seat tube.

If I had to give you an example, a bike might have a virtual size of 18.5 and an actual size of 17.5. This means that the bike size feels like 18.5, but in actual sense, the frame size is 17.5. It doesn’t make much of a difference as it is there only to let you know what it is (actual size) and what it looks like in size (virtual size).

People also ask

Trek 17.5 frame size – what does it mean.

A 17.5 frame size is considered an M size (Medium) in terms of alpha sizing. Any individual who is 161-172 cm or a height of 5’3.4”-5’7.7” . If you are within this height range, going for a medium size shall be the right choice.

Trek medium frame size is for what height?

A medium size frame size (17.5) is ideal for a person with a height between 5’3.4”-5’7.7 ”. In centimeters, it is ideal for those around 161 to 172 cm in height.

Trek 24-inch bike is for what age?

When it comes to children, their bikes are measured in terms of wheel size instead of the standard frame size. These kid’s bikes have a size range between 12-26 inches, depending upon the height of the kid.

As far as a 24-inch wheel size is concerned, any kid between the ages of 8-11 can go for a fun ride with it. Some of the popular 24-inch bike models are Trek Roscoe 25, Wahoo 24, Trek Precaliber 24 , etc.

Trek 26-inch bike is for what height?

A 26-inch wheel-size bike is for kids with a height of 4’9”-5’3” (146-160 cm) . Wahoo 26 is a prime example of a bike in this category.

Trek 20-inch bike is for what age?

Trek 20-inch bikes are for children between 5 to 8 years of age. Additionally, if they are within the height of 3’9”-4’6” , it should be suitable for them.

Are Trek bikes good?

Trek bikes are considered to be extremely good and solid in build. It is known to be the number 1 performance bike brand all over the globe. Having its humble beginning in the year 1976 in Waterloo, Wisconsin, it has turned into the largest bicycle manufacturer all over the world. With an array of bikes ranging from, mountain, road, electric, and kids bikes, there is a lot to choose from a mammoth list.

How much is a used Trek bike worth?

It depends on a lot of factors in terms of how old the bike is, the year of production, which model, and a lot more. However, it can be within $1000-10,000 (depending on the model and other factors) .

Where are Trek bikes made?

The majority of their bikes are manufactured in Taiwan, China, Netherlands, and Germany too.

Why are Trek bikes so expensive?

Usually, the bike brand prefers top-tier components, suspensions, and frames that are ahead of its competitors. This results in additional costs that can be seen in the price tag and also many top-end Trek bikes are custom-made with less production, leading to being more expensive.

Trek bikes are a class apart in many ways with a range of bikes on offer for its fans across the world. Choosing the right size for you can be tricky, but this is where the Trek frame size chart comes to the rescue.

Trek as a bicycle brand might be on the costly side, but they punch above its weight to provide top-class bikes for the masses. I am always someone who roots for quality, and Trek provides what I need.

One comment

Thanks for your informative post. I really like the Trek alpha sizing for MTB because Trek frame sizes use alpha sizing rather than the usual inches or centimeters (cm), and they usually have a certain range of measurements.

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Trek 3500 Mountain Bike: Is it Worth Your Money?

October 2, 2023

‍ Key Takeaways

• The Trek 3500 is an entry-level mountain bike, optimal for beginners, with a durable Alpha Silver Aluminum frame.
• Key features include Shimano TZ31 derailleurs, SR Suntour suspension, and Bontrager LT3 26x2.0 tires for varied terrains.
• While suitable for trail riding and light off-road use, more experienced riders may seek upgrades for technical trails.

This article may contain affiliate links where we earn a commission from qualifying purchases.

‍ If you’re looking for a mountain bike that offers a balance between performance and affordability, the Trek 3500 is worth considering.

The Trek 3500 is a solid entry-level mountain bike from a reputable brand. It offers a durable frame with a lifetime warranty, making it a reliable choice for casual and regular riders. While components do need periodic replacement, the bike’s value and longevity make it worth the investment.

This entry-level bike has garnered quite a reputation among riders, especially those starting in the world of trail riding. But is it worth your money? Let's delve into what makes the Trek 3500 a popular choice. All information has been gathered through personal tests using this bike in real-world situations.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

‍ Overview of the Trek 3500 Mountain Bike

The Trek 3500 mountain bike is a popular entry-level choice for those who want a good bike without breaking the bank. It's designed with the beginner rider in mind and offers a comfortable and enjoyable ride on various surfaces, including local trails and gravel paths.

One of the most notable features of the Trek 3500 is the Alpha Silver Aluminum frame, which provides a lightweight yet sturdy build that's suitable for tackling your first trail rides.

Additionally, the bike is equipped with an SR Suntour suspension fork, which helps to smooth out the ride and absorb bumps along the way. This is particularly beneficial for those new to mountain biking who may be more sensitive to trail conditions.

So, let’s look closer at the key Trek 3500 features to help decide whether it’s worth the investment.

Key Features of Trek 3500 Mountain Bike

The Trek 3500's drivetrain and components are built around dependability and ease of use. Shimano TZ31 front and rear derailleurs, combined with a wide range of gears, make it simple for beginners to navigate varied terrain without feeling overwhelmed.

Regarding braking, the bike utilizes linear-pull brakes, which are well-suited for new riders as they are easy to control and maintain. Overall, the Trek 3500 mountain bike is a great bike, and here’s why.

Frame and Suspension

The Trek 3500 mountain bike is built with an Alpha Silver Aluminum frame that's suitable for beginners. This lightweight frame offers great stability and durability. Its semi-integrated head tube helps make the bike more comfortable to ride.

The bike has an SR Suntour suspension fork, ensuring a smooth ride on various terrains.

Gears and Brakes

This mountain bike is equipped with Shimano components for seamless gear shifting. The bike's Shimano TZ31 front derailleur and a reliable rear derailleur offer a range of gear combinations, perfect for tackling various trail conditions.

The Trek 3500 features linear-pull brakes that offer strong stopping power and control, ensuring safety on technical trails and during fast descents.

Wheels and Tires

The Trek 3500 mountain bike's wheels are designed for rugged trail riding and enhanced performance. It boasts knobby tires, specifically Bontrager LT3 26x2.0 tires, that provide excellent traction and control on a variety of surfaces such as dirt, gravel, or rocky trails.

Keeping proper tire pressure will enhance the bike's performance, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable ride.

Design and Aesthetics

The design of the Trek 3500 combines style, functionality, and comfort. It features a clean and streamlined geometry, making it an appealing choice for beginners and experienced riders.

The bike's components, such as the Wellgo nylon platform pedals, 25.4mm 30mm rise handlebars, and comfortable Bontrager SSR saddle, make it an enjoyable ride for longer periods on local trails or commutes.

Trek 3500 Mountain Bike Performance

In our experience, the Trek 3500 mountain bike has proven to be great for entry-level mountain biking and trail riding. The Trek 3500 is also suitable for commuting and road bike usage, providing versatility for any type of rider. Let's look at how it does in terms of performance.

When riding on a single-track trail, the Trek 3500 performs well thanks to the knobby tires and solid frame. The bike comes equipped with Bontrager LT3 26x2.0 tires, providing good traction on a variety of surfaces.

However, on more technical trails, you may notice the bike falling behind some other bikes in the same category, partly due to the SR Suntour fork's limitations. For an entry-level mountain bike, the components play a crucial role in the Trek 3500's performance.

Most Trek bikes also feature a Shimano TZ31 front derailleur and rear derailleur, ensuring a reliable gear-shifting experience. The wellgo nylon platform pedals offer a good grip for better control on the trails.

When it comes to stopping power, the Trek 3500 has rim brakes, which might not provide the same level of performance as disc brakes but are still sufficient for beginners. One important aspect to keep an eye on is tire pressure. Maintaining the right pressure can greatly affect the bike's performance.

The Trek 3500 bike comes with a 25.4mm 30mm rise handlebar and a comfy Bontrager SSR seat. This bike is designed with a geometry that allows riders to have a relaxed and enjoyable ride, whether it's a casual commute or a gravel-filled mountain biking adventure.

Pros and Cons of Trek 3500 Mountain Bike

The Trek 3500 is a great entry-level mountain bike that's perfect for those who are new to the sport. One of the key features of this bike is its Alpha Silver Aluminum frame, which is light, durable, and comfortable for trail riding.

Its Bontrager LT3 26x2.0 knobby tires provide excellent traction on various terrains, making it an ideal bike for local trails. The SR Suntour suspension fork absorbs shock from rough surfaces, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride.

The Shimano TZ31 front derailleur and Shimano rear derailleur provide a wide range of gears to tackle uphill climbs and downhill descents easily. Additionally, the Wellgo nylon platform pedals are durable.

You also have the Bontrager SSR 25.4mm 30mm rise handlebars, ensuring a comfy and stable ride grip. Overall, it's a good bike for beginner mountain bikers and those looking to enjoy trail riding without breaking the bank.

While the Trek 3500 is a great bike for new riders, it may not be the best choice for more experienced mountain bikers or those looking to tackle technical trails.

The rim brakes on this bike may not provide the same stopping power as hydraulic disc brakes found on higher-end models, especially in wet or muddy conditions.

The Trek 3500 is primarily designed for trail riding and light off-road use, so those seeking a more versatile bike for both road and mountain biking may want to consider other options.

Its entry-level components may also not hold up due to the wear and tear of tackling more challenging trails. More experienced riders may find themselves quickly outgrowing this bike and wanting to upgrade to a better bike in the same category.

That being said, the Trek 3500 still offers a solid ride for beginners and those looking for an affordable option in the world of mountain biking.

How Long Will The Trek 3500 Mountain Bike Last?

The Trek 3500 mountain bike's lifespan depends on factors like usage, maintenance, riding conditions, storage, and accidents. While it's an entry-level bike from a reputable brand, its durability is enhanced by a lifetime warranty on the frame.

With moderate use and proper care, it can last several years. Expect 5-10 years of dependable service for daily commuting or light trail rides. However, rigorous mountain biking might necessitate more frequent component replacements, even if the frame endures.

It's crucial to note that while the frame might be covered, parts like tires, chains, and brake pads will wear over time. Storing the bike in dry conditions and regular maintenance will optimize its longevity.

Verdict: Is the Trek 3500 Mountain Bike Worth Your Money?

It's clear that this is a great bike for entry-level riders and more experienced cyclists alike. Perfect for trail riding, this mountain bike can handle steep climbs and tough single-track trails, making it a versatile option for various terrains.

It offers knobby tires for good grip on dirt, gravel, and rough surfaces, ensuring a smoother ride when tackling technical trails. This bike comes equipped with Shimano TZ31 front and rear derailleurs, providing consistent gear shifting across its 21-speed gear system, even on rocky terrains.

Additionally, the terrain versatility is further complemented by its Bontrager SSR 26x2.0 wheels, a strong frame, and wellgo nylon platform pedals for added comfort and support

The SR Suntour fork on the Trek 3500 Mountain Bike adds to the comfortable ride regardless of the trail conditions. It may not be a high-end mountain bike, but considering its price point, it delivers a solid and enjoyable performance.

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Danny Lawson

Mountain biking is more than just a hobby for me - it's a way of life. I love the challenge and excitement that comes with it, and I'm always pushing myself to go faster and ride harder. Some people might think that mountain biking is dangerous, but I see it as the only way to live.

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Trek 3500 frame size

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i got a trek 3500 yesterday. it's an 18" frame. the guy at the store said it's what i needed. plus, i've had a 18" diamond back outlook (with slicks) that i've been riding for awhile. so the 18" frame is pretty much what i'm used to. however, i've only road this bike down the street and back (i'm hoping to get to take it out for a longer ride later today). but for some reason i'm second guessing getting the 18" and thinking maybe i should've gone with a 16". i know i can't make the decision without actually going on a real ride on this bike. but my question is what size frames are you other riders riding? do you go with what fits, or a size down?  

I'm 6'-1" and ride a 19.5" 4300. The frames are different, but the geometry is the same. Seat tube measurement isn't really an important factor in bike fit as much as effective top tube length is. That said, Trek 3 and 4 series frames have some odd geometry and have short top tube and wheel base measurements compared to any other manufactures frame for any given size. Your 18" may compare to other 16" bikes for cockpit dimensions, reach, etc. If you are concerned that you have the wrong size bike, go back to your LBS and test ride other sizes and go with whichever is the most comfortable.  

Coming from internet jockeys, we can only give generic guesses, but it would help if you gave us your stats...how tall...inseam, etc. so we can at least have a frame of reference.  

I'm 5'9" with a 30" inseam. A friend of mine has a 16" trek 4300 and he's a little shorter than me and he says his bike is too small but the 18" was too big for him, so I'm kinda thinking a 16" would be to small for me. I guess I'm second guessing because I told the sales guy what I wanted and they tried to sell me a 29er that was more expensive than my budget. And when I said no I wanted the trek he was less helpful than he was when he tried to push the 29er on me.  

Sometimes you don't have unlimited options, but in a situation like you're describing, I would be tempted to leave without buying a bike. For a larger purchase like that, I would like to get some decent help and advice, especially if I'm not completely sure of what I need. In this day and age of bikes and parts being sold over the Internet for a large discount, the LBS needs to give enough service to make it worthwhile to shop there!  

At your height/inseam, I'd say the 18 is a better fit than the 16". Everybody has their own fit and preferences, but for example, I'm 5'6" and a 16" is too small for me., so I think you're fine. Just curious, what 29er was the saleperson pushing and what size? And why did you want the trek over the 29er...price?...fit?...brand?  

height and inseam are only vague indicators of what size frame will fit you best. if the bike shop dude sized you based solely on that, he does not know what he's doing. a 18" frame on any two company's geometry might have wildly different top tube lengths, seat tube angles, etc, and therefore fit very different. you might be used to the geometry on a 18" Diamondback frame, but that does not mean that Trek's 18" geo will fit the same way. you are comparing apples to oranges. the real question is one of the length of the frame. get the shop to help you determine the right seat height for you. the distance from the cranks to the saddle will be the same for you on ANY size frame. once you have set that up, the question is- which size frame makes you most comfortable and in control of the handlebars? in other words, how does the reach of the bike suit you?  

It was a specialized 29er. Not sure of the model, it was grey with no markings or graphics. I went in knowing I wanted the trek. It was in my price range, and it liked the color scheme.  

I had the exact same experience with a Trek 3500 about 5 months ago. I came back to mountain biking from a 17 year lay off (no suspension fork on my '91 Bridgestone MB-4) and went to my LBS to get an inexpensive name brand bike. I didn't want to spend a ton of money only to realize I wasn't going to use the bike much (there was also the issue of convincing my wife to spend more on a bike. . .). I got a new sales clerk at the LBS who pulled out a Trek 3500 and didn't tell me squat about what I was looking at despite my questions. He "fit" me for the 18" (I'm 5'9" with a fairly short inseam) by having me sit on the 16 and then the 18. I told him the 18 felt too big but he said I'd get used to it. I never did. It always felt too big and I was in constant fear that I was going to rack myself due to a too high stand-over. That left me with a bad taste in my mouth for my LBS (I've had other "bike snob" issues with them since). I also realized that the components on the 3500 weren't going to stand up well to moderately aggresive trail riding (you get what you pay for, although I loved the black and green color scheme). I sold it for a slight loss on Craigslist and bought a slightly more expensive 17" bike online. I spent some time comparing the geometry of the bikes on paper first, though, to make sure the new bike was shorter in critical areas (but not too short). The 17" bike feels much better. And, since I feel comfortable with the frame and have decided I will continue to ride, I've spent money upgrading the components to my own liking (it's also easier to fly my rather pricey build-up under the radar). Of course, since I didn't get the chance to try out the online bike first, there was some luck involved with the fit. I also like to do my own work on the bike, which made the online route less daunting. What's the point? The 3500 may be the wrong bike for you in general because you are between sizes. You might want to ask your LBS to let you test ride a comparable bike from another manufacturer to see if you can find a better match. If that doesn't work, you might want to consider returning the bike and going to another shop or the online route. If you consider online, make sure to read a few of the online bike purchase threads here first, though, so you get a sense of the pros and cons.  

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Trek 3500 review

A solid option for beginners

T he 3500 isn’t just Trek’s entry-level option, it’s also the company’s cheapest adult bike of any kind. That’s likely to attract buyers just looking for something to get about on, but the 3500 is very much a mountain bike.

Ride & handling: Confidence-inspiring neutral handling

Trek have stuck to tried and tested geometry with the 3500 to good effect – it’s a confident ride with a good blend of stability and agility. The cockpit is a little shorter than some of the competition, which is arguably a little more user-friendly for the beginner but will start to feel cramped as your experience grows.

The 3500 isn’t unduly heavy overall for its price (14.2kg/31.3lb), but somehow feels less lively on the trail than the best of the other bikes at this price. Part of that is down to the generally higher gears, but the Trek also carries a bit more of its weight in its wheels. Because wheels spin, you have to accelerate them round as well as forward, so weight there and in the tyres is more noticeable than in the frame. The rubber rolls fairly easily, which helps.

Frame: Thoughtfully-designed and well finished chassis

Trek definitely win the paintjob prize here, with a classy Matte Candy Orange finish that resembles the anodising found on more expensive bikes. The beauty isn’t just skin-deep, either: the frame underneath is very tidily put together.

There aren’t any constructional gimmicks, just useful things like a flared down tube, slimmed-down head tube and an open-ended gusset beefing up the join between them. At the back is a wishbone seatstay, with rack and mudguard mounts present and correct. All the cables route along the underside of the top tube out of mud’s way and you’ll find two sets of bottle bosses inside the main triangle.

Equipment: Gear range is more suited to off-dirt use

The colour-matched fork is a neat touch, although the fork itself is fairly unexciting. The SR Suntour unit is all-steel, with skinny stanchions, a welded-on brace and simple spring/elastomer internals. It’s heavy, flexible and bouncy but – critically – if you’re not used to a decent suspension fork then you’re unlikely to notice.

The 3500 has a Shimano MegaRange 13-34T freewheel with a big drop down the oversized big sprocket. Up front, Trek have opted for a 28/38/48T setup on the Shimano chainset. That makes all the gears rather high, which is a mixed blessing. On the downside, steep climbs are more challenging and that 38T middle ring means you’ll be spending a lot of time on the bigger sprockets out back. You won’t have to spin your legs off downhill or on the road though. On balance, lower gears would be better for the trails.

There are lots of bits from Bontrager, Trek’s in-house component brand, on the 3500 including the big Bontrager LT3 tyres. They’re listed as 2in, but they’re quite tall for extra trail-smoothing volume. The tread pattern is at its best on hard surfaces, with a shallow tread but some worthwhile side knobs.

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Size / 13", 16", 18", 19.5", 21", 22.5", 16", 19.5"

At a glance

Where to buy.

Specifications

• Frame Alpha Aluminum
• Fork High tensile steel ATB
• Wheels Alloy hubs; Matrix 550 rims
• Wheel Size 26"
• Tires Bontrager Connection Trail, 26x2.0"
• Crank SR 48/38/28
• Front Derailleur Shimano C051
• Rear Derailleur Shimano TX50
• Shifters Shimano EF29
• Brakeset Tektro V w/ Shimano STI levers
• Handlebar 25.4, 30mm rise
• Saddle Bontrager Sport
• Seatpost Bontrager
• Stem 25.4, 40 degree rise
• Headset Semi-cartridge, sealed

Q: Where to buy a 2005 Trek 3500?

The 2005 Trek 3500 may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: What size wheels does the 2005 Trek 3500 have?

The 2005 Trek 3500 has 26" wheels.

Q: What size 2005 Trek 3500 should I get?

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City Street Guides by f.d. walker: A Street Photography Guide to Moscow, Russia

*A series of guides on shooting Street Photography in cities around the world. Find the best spots to shoot, things to capture, street walks, street tips, safety concerns, and more for cities around the world. I have personally researched, explored and shot Street Photography in every city that I create a guide for. So you can be ready to capture the streets as soon as you step outside with your camera!

At over 12 million people, Moscow is the largest city in Russia and second largest in Europe by population ( Istanbul is #1). An urban, cosmopolitan metropolis with more than enough glitz and glam to cater to the elite, but without losing its fair share of Soviet era roughness around the edges. It can be fast paced, brash, busy, and trendy like other big cities, but it has its blend of West meets Russia atmosphere and beauty that provides plenty of unique interest. The Red Square is as famous as it gets, but there’s so much more to this city, including the most beautiful subway system you’ve ever seen. It would take years to capture all of Moscow, but that means you have an endless amount of areas to discover.

So here’s a Street Photography guide so you can be ready to capture all that Moscow has to offer before you even arrive!

• Patriarch’s Pond
• Old Arbat Street
• Maroseyka Street
• Tverskoy Boulevard

Top 5 Street Spots:

1. red square.

The Red Square is the most famous square in not just Russia, but all of Eastern Europe. The name actually doesn’t come from the color of the bricks or communism, but from the name in Russian, Krásnaya, once meaning “beautiful” before its meaning changed to “red.” This large plaza is what you see on the cover of guide books and magazines for Moscow, with St. Basil’s Cathedral being the center piece next to Lenin’s Mausoleum surrounded by the Kremlin Wall. Of course, the Red Square attracts hordes of tourist due to the main attractions, but all that activity around an interesting atmosphere does provide street photo opportunities. It’s also the central square connecting to the city’s major streets, providing a good starting point to explore outward.

You’ll also find the popular pedestrian only Nikolskaya Street connecting the Red Square to Lubyanka Square. This line of expensive shops includes plenty of activity, while also leading you to another popular square. Filled with history rivaling any city, the Red Square and surrounding areas are the heart and soul of Russia.

2. Patriarch’s Ponds

Patriarch’s Ponds is one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Moscow. Despite the name being plural, there’s only one large pond, but it’s worth a visit with your camera. It’s a popular spot for locals and expats to come relax or take a stroll around the pond. You get an interesting mix of young and old too, from young love to “babushkas” feeding pigeons. It’s a very peaceful park atmosphere in one of the nicer areas within the city center, while bringing enough activity for street photography. 

The pond is shallow and in the winter becomes a popular spot for ice-skating too. The area is also well-known for the location in the famous Russian novel, The Master and Margarita. 

3. Old Arbat (Stary Arbat)

Old Arbat is the most famous pedestrian street in Moscow, and dating back to the 15th century, also one of its oldest. Originally, it was an area of trade, but soon became the most prestigious residential area in Moscow. During the 18th century, Arbat started attracting the city’s scholars and artists, including Alexander Pushkin. Cafes lined the streets and impressive homes filled the neighborhood. Since then, New Arbat street was created as a highway in the area, while Old Arbat was paved for a 1km pedestrian only walkway.

Due to the historic buildings, famous artists that lived here, and the bohemian atmosphere, Old Arbat has become a big attraction for tourists today. Now, there’s a mix of cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, street performers, street merchants and other attractions for visitors, and some locals, to come enjoy. It can get really busy here and there’s usually something interesting going on so it’s a good street to come walk with your camera for guaranteed life.

4. Gorky Park

One of the most famous places in Moscow is Gorky Park. The official name is Maxim Gorky’s Central Park of Culture & Leisure, which gives you an idea of what goes on here. When built, it was the first of its kind in the Soviet Union. Divided into two parts, it stretches along Moscow River. One end contains fair rides, foods stands, tennis courts, a sports club, a lake for boat rides, and more. This end brings more active life due to its number of attractions, while the other end is more relaxed, where you’ll find gardens, trees, older buildings, and an outdoor amphitheater.

Gorky Park attracts mostly locals so it’s a good spot to capture the non-tourist side of Moscow life. Muscovites come here to escape the city and unwind in a picturesque setting. The park remains alive outside of the warmer months too, especially when the lake turns into the city’s largest outdoor skating rink. I’d recommend taking the metro out here to spend at least half a day exploring the massive park’s life with your camera.

5. Maroseyka Street

Maroseyka Street is a popular area not too far from the Red Square. The long, winding street turns into Pokrovka and is lined with restaurants, cafes, bars and places to stay. It’s actually where I like to stay when I’m in Moscow due to its location and solid street photography opportunities itself. You have Kitay-gorod station near and if you keep walking southwest, you’ll get to the Red Square. But if you walk northwest, as it changes to Pokrovka, you can find a long street of activity for photography with its own interesting atmosphere.

6. Tverskoy Boulevard

Tverskoy Boulevard is the oldest and longest boulevard in Moscow, beginning at the end of Nikitsky Boulevard, and finishing at Pushkin Square, a spot to come for activity itself. The boulevard is made up of two avenues, with pedestrian walkways in-between. You’ll find grass, shrubbery, trees, benches and more walking it’s almost kilometer length. Many people come here to enjoy some relaxation, walk their dog, or just to use it to walk wherever they’re going. Its center location also provides a nice place to walk with your camera near plenty of other spots you’ll want to check out anyway.

Sample Street Walk:

For a full day of Street Photography, covering some of the best spots, you can follow this sample street walk for Moscow:

• Start your morning walking around the Red Square (1), while exploring the surrounding area, including Nikolskaya Street
• Then walk northwest to Patriarch’s Ponds (2) and slowly walk the pond and surrounding area with your camera
• Next, walk east to the Pushkin Monument and stroll down Tverskoy Boulevard (6)
• Once Tverskoy Boulevard (6) ends, it will turn into Nikitsky Boulevard. Follow this down until you get to the start of Old Arbat Street (3), across from Arbatskaya station
• After you’re done walking down Old Arbat Street (3) for more street photography, spend some time checking out Moscow’s beautiful metro stations
• To finish off the day with more street photography, get off the metro near Red Square (1) again, Maroseyka Street (5) or wherever you’re staying for the night.

3 Things I’ll Remember about Shooting in Moscow:

1. museum metro.

The Moscow metro system was the first underground railway system in the Soviet Union and today includes 203 stations across 340km of routes. The elaborate system has some of the deepest stations in the world too, with escalators that seem to go on forever. None of this is what makes it so special, though. Many of its stations feel like stepping inside a museum, making it without a doubt the most interesting and beautiful metro system I’ve been in.

When built, Stalin wanted to make the metro stations “palaces for the people” with marble, chandeliers, and grand architecture. The best part is the variety of architecture and styles used, making many of the stations a completely different experience visually. You could easily spend a whole day traveling the stations and there are even tours available for people who wish to do just that. My advice, though, would be just to buy a ticket and hop on and off at different stations, while exploring different lines. The museum-like surrounding mixed with the crowds of characters can make for a great photography experience.

Since there are so many stations, here are some of my favorites to check out:

• Novoslobodskaya
• Mayakovskaya
• Elektrozavodskaya
• Komsomolskaya
• Ploschad Revolyutsii
• Dostoyevskaya
• Prospekt Mira

2. Moscow is Big

It’s no secret that Moscow is a big city, but it can feel even bigger with how spread out much of it is. This is especially true if you compare it to cities outside of Asia. If I compared it to cities in Europe, I’d probably say only Istanbul would warrant more time to really discover the depths of this city. Most only explore around the Red Square and surrounding area, but that is such a small part of the city. Although, that central area does give you plenty to see on its own.

Fortunately, I had a good friend living in the city to show me around, but it opened up my eyes even more to how much there is to discover in Moscow. It’s a big city with a variety of atmosphere that can take you from “east” to “west” and trendy to rugged depending on where you go. I’d imagine you’d have to live here a while to really know the city.

3. Cosmopolitan Mix of East meets West

Modern skyscrapers mixed with amazing architecture, a world-class metro system with museum-like beauty, trendy fashion and chic clubs, Moscow is a rich mix of Russian culture and history in a more western cosmopolitan package. There is a push to keep the Russian culture, while also pushing forward with a modern metropolis the whole world will envy. This comes with an impressive skyline, that continues to grow, and endless modernities, but with soviet nostalgia and atmosphere mixed in for good measure.

Mixed in with this grand western cosmopolitan atmosphere, is a strong national pride in Russia. This includes their famous leader, Vladimir Putin. Maybe no other place will you see a country’s leader more often. All over, from the pricey tourist shops to the underground walkway stalls, you’ll find goods with Putin’s likeness covering them. From t-shirts to magnets to Matryoshka dolls. There’s a strong national pride that can be seen around the city, which also extends to their leader. Moscow is many things. It’s East meets West, modernizations meets Soviet era, and a whole lot more.

What To Do For a Street Photography Break?:

Eat at a stolovaya.

Stolovayas are Russian cafeterias that became popular in the Soviet days. You grab a tray and walk down the line of freshly prepared local dishes, and select whatever you want from the chefs. They’re usually inexpensive and a much better value than restaurants, while giving you the opportunity to try from a wide selection of everyday Russian food. They’re also very tasty. I always include some borsch on my tray and go from there. The places themselves are all over Moscow and usually come with Soviet-era aesthetics to complete the experience.

Street Safety Score: 7

*As always, no place is completely safe! So when I talk about safety, I’m speaking in general comparison to other places. Always take precaution, be smart, observe your surroundings and trust your instincts anywhere you go!

Being the 2nd largest city in Europe with over 12 million people, you’re going to have your dangerous areas, but for the most part, it feels safe walking around. Russia is statistically higher in crime compared to most of Europe, but this generally doesn’t apply to tourists and visitors. Around the Red Square and surrounding city center, you should feel completely safe walking around. Pick pocketing can happen, but no more than other touristic places. I always explore Moscow freely without coming across too much to worry about. It’s a spread out city, though, so of course it matters where you are. Just use basic street smarts, know where you are and Moscow shouldn’t give you a problem. 

People’s Reaction Score: 7

Moscow is fast paced, big city life, which usually means people aren’t too concerned with you, or your camera. I don’t find people notice or pay much attention to me when I’m out taking photos in Moscow. For the most part, people just go about their day. You shouldn’t get too many looks or concern. But it can depend on the area you are in. The more you stick out, the more you might get noticed with suspicions. I’ve never had any problems in Moscow, or Russia, but just be careful who you’re taking a photo of if you get out of the city center. Other than that, it’s about average for reactions. 

Street Tips:

Learn the alphabet .

Much of Moscow, including the metro system, doesn’t use english. The Russian alphabet uses letters from the Cyrillic script, which if you aren’t familiar with it and don’t know the sounds, can be hard to decipher the words. This is most important for street names and metro stops when trying to get around. It can save confusion and make it easier getting around if you learn the basic alphabet. At the very least then, you can sound out the words to see which are similar in the english conversion, which can help matching them to maps. When out shooting street photography, getting around is as important as anything. So save yourself some time and frustration by learning the Russian Alphabet.

Use the metro

While Saint-Petersburg feels very walkable for a city its size, Moscow can feel very spread out, even for its bigger size. Outside of the Red Square area, you can have plenty of walking before getting anywhere very interesting, so you’ll need to take the metro a lot if you really want to explore the city. Maps are deceiving here too, it will always be further than it looks.

Another reason it’s less walkable than Saint-Petersburg is its completely different set-up. Moscow’s streets are mostly contstructed in rings with narrow, winding streets in-between. This is common with medieval city cities that used to be confined by walls, but you usually don’t have it in a city this massive. Saint-Petersburg has a more grid-like pattern that also uses the canals to help you know your way around. When it comes to navigating on foot in Moscow, it can be more difficult, so bring a map and take the metro when needed. It’s why Moscow’s metro carries more passengers per day than the London and Paris subways combined.

Explore other areas if you have time

Moscow is really big. While most people stay around the Red Square within the Boulevard Ring, there’s so much more to the city. I covered some other spots outside of this circle, but if you really want to see the city, you’ll need time. If you do have time, some other areas I’d check out first are Zamoskvarechye, along some of the south and western Moscow.

Inspiration:

For some more inspiration, you can look through the Street Photography of Moscow photographer Artem Zhitenev  and check out 33 of my photos taken in Moscow .

Conclusion:

Moscow’s name brings a certain mystique, but once you’re there it might bring a different atmosphere than you expect. It’s big and sprawling, but beautiful in many ways. It can feel like a European capital on a grand scale, but you can definitely find its Russian side in there.

The urban sprawl of Moscow can be intimidating, but give it enough time and you’ll be rewarded with plenty to discover. All with the world’s best metro system to take you around.

I hope this guide can help you start to experience some of what Moscow contains. So grab your camera and capture all that Moscow has to offer for Street Photography!

If you still have any questions about shooting in Moscow, feel free to comment below or email me!

(I want to make these guides as valuable as possible for all of you so add any ideas on improvements, including addition requests, in the comment section!)

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Moscow Palace of Soviets – Soviet architectural giant

3 Comments · Posted by Sergei Rzhevsky in Architecture , History , Photos

Moscow Palace of Soviets is one of the most famous unfinished architectural projects in history. The huge (the biggest and tallest in the world) building would have become the symbol of the victory of socialism, the symbol of a new country and new Moscow . This project is still amazing in our day.

The idea of building the Palace of Soviets was proposed by Sergei Kirov at the First Congress of Soviets, December 30, 1922 (also this Congress announced the establishment of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics). The idea found the widest support among the delegates.

But the realization of the idea began almost ten years later when in June 18, 1931 in the newspaper “Izvestia” open competition to design the Palace of Soviets was declared. In the same year, December 5, the symbol of old Russia – Moscow Cathedral of Christ the Savior was blown to clear the place for the new symbol of the Soviet Union. The cathedral was visible from almost anywhere in Moscow in early thirties. New architectural symbol was supposed to be visible from any place in Moscow.

As a result, five groups of architects became the finalists of the contest. The group of Boris Mikhailovich Iofan won the contest. The project of Iofan did not immediately take the form familiar to all lovers of architecture of the Stalin era. The first sketch in 1931 was as follows:

And this is not a sketch but a more detailed version of the project of Iofan also dated 1931

In 1932, the Palace of Soviets became a little more like the final draft

Almost the final version, dated 1933, but still without Lenin but with the liberated proletariat on the roof

The project taking more familiar form

And finally the version approved in 1939

The 316-meter palace was to be crowned by the 100-meter statue of Lenin. The total area of the building was to be 11 hectares, and weight – one and a half million tons. Before the World War II the base of high-altitude part of the Palace was built, the construction of steel frame started. After June 22, 1941 concrete, granite, steel and other construction materials were required for completely different purposes.

After the war several skyscrapers of less size were built in Moscow. The foundation of the Palace was used during the construction of the world’s largest swimming pool. And in the nineties the Cathedral of Christ the Savior demolished in December 1931 was restored on the same foundation.

And what would it be a great view if this building was built after all!

Tags:  Moscow city

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Maria Margherita Innocenti · March 20, 2021 at 12:51 pm

Very interesting article! I would love to use some of the images for an academic publication (in particular Moscow Palace of Soviets 2 and 3). Would it be possible to know the sources of those images? Thank you very much.

Author comment by Sergei Rzhevsky · March 20, 2021 at 2:39 pm

Yes, you can use these photos, won’t mind if you mention our site as the source, although it is not required.

Maria Margherita Innocenti · March 25, 2021 at 7:32 pm

Hi Sergei, thank you for your reply. And do you know if the images are under copyright? And, if yes, who holds the copyright? Thank you.

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