cute travel document holder

10 Best Passport Holders, According to Travel Enthusiasts

Give your passport a makeover.

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If there’s one item that you need to keep in excellent condition while traveling (and not forget!), it’s your passport. A passport holder can not only make it easier to keep essential documents in one place, but it can also prevent damage from a nasty spill or other accidents.

Our top picks:

Best Overall Passport Holder

Melsbrinna passport holder.

Best Value Passport Holder

Zoppen rfid travel passport wallet.

Best Luxury Passport Holder

Tumi zip-around passport case.

Best Minimalist Passport Holder

Away the passport wallet.

Best Leather Passport Holder

Anthropologie wanderer contrast leather passport holder.

Best Incognito Passport Holder

Leatherology a6 envelope pouch.

Best Passport Holder for Travel Enthusiasts

Handmade curious leather vintage map passport holder.

Best Family Passport Holder

Holifesy valante premium family travel document organizer.

Best RFID Passport Holder

Bellroy travel wallet.

Best Cute Passport Holder

Rifle paper co. passport holder.

The style experts and travel enthusiasts at the Good Housekeeping Institute test all types of travel gear , from the most comfortable travel shoes to top-rated suitcases , packing cubes and more. When selecting the best passport holders, we reviewed popular picks online for features like materials, number of card pockets and design. According to our travel pros, these are the best passport holders to bring with you on your next flight.

Stylish, affordable and available in tons of fun colors , you don't want to forget this chic passport holder on your next trip. Not only is it under $10, but we love that it has enough room for your passport as well as a few credit cards and a small pen. It even features a handy snap button closure to keep everything together as you race through the airport. Just keep in mind that it's made of PU leather (or faux leather), which helps keep the cost so low.

Leave your wallet back at home and bring this travel wallet on your next vacation instead. In addition to its great price, it’s made of a super lightweight, waterproof nylon material and comes with enough slots for multiple passports, credit cards, IDs, zippered pockets for coins and a removable keychain. It’s also available in lots of colors so you can choose the one that suits your style. According to the brand, it features RFID-blocking to prevent thieves from stealing your personal information.

TUMI is known for its high-quality luggage and travel backpacks , and you should expect no less from this leather passport case. Unlike other picks on this list, it features a zipper so travel essentials will remain fully protected inside , and there’s room for six cards as well as some cash, an ID and more. While colors are limited, we like that it comes in a classic black, a pretty rose and a fun moonlight ombre shade.

Away carry-ons are a favorite among our Lab experts, so why not get a matching passport wallet from the brand? Though the four color options are a bit limited, we like the leather look and that you can customize it with your initials . We also appreciate that each wallet features an exterior slip pocket that makes it easy to access your passport as you reach security, as well as four card slots for IDs, credit cards and more.

Simple yet stylish, this passport holder comes in lovely shades of green, pink or gold so you can easily find it in your purse . While the leather design means it’s a bit more expensive, our travel enthusiasts love the “passport” print on the front and appreciate that it doesn’t include slip pockets like other travel wallets — that way, you can keep using your original wallet and leave your passport back at the hotel.

We’re obsessed with this inconspicuous, versatile passport holder that looks like an envelope . Available in several classic shades and made of full-grain leather, you can squeeze both your passport and your travel partner's documents inside. You can also keep using it after your trip to store postcards you brought back, receipts and other loose paper. We love that it features a hidden snap in the front so everything stays together, and that the envelope is more expandable than other passport holders.

For those who have a case of the travel bug or serious wanderlust, this passport holder is a must. For under $20, you can choose among several travel-themed prints and designs . Each holder comes with a book pocket for your passport, two credit card slots and space for your boarding pass. We appreciate its slim look that has just enough room for essentials without feeling too bulky.

There’s nothing worse than being stuck in a foreign destination because you can’t find your passport, which is why our pros think all families should own this family-sized passport holder. It’s made of water-resistant polyester to keep documents safe, and it has enough room for six passports as well as plane tickets, cash and even a phone ! That’s 21 pockets total, and everything in one place. It also comes with a wristlet and cross-body straps so you can have it on you at all times.

RFID-blocking helps protect documents like your passport or credit card from being read and duplicated by thieves , which is just one reason why you should invest in this RFID-blocking wallet from Bellroy. It has space for your passport along with four easy-to-access card slots (plus three more) and a hidden slip for cash. There’s even a spot to store international SIM cards and ejector pins. We love that it’s made of high-quality leather, making it a great wallet to use during business travel, vacations and even back home.

Just looking at the cute print of this passport holder makes our editors want to hop on a plane. Featuring designs of the Eiffel Tower, Statue of Liberty and other famous destinations around the globe, it has enough room to protect your passport and plane tickets thanks to two slip pockets. Plus, you can get this matching luggage tag along with it.

Olivia (she/her) is a media and tech product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute , covering tech, home, auto, health and more. She has more than five years of experience writing about tech trends and innovation and, prior to joining GH in 2021, was a writer for Android Central, Lifewire and other media outlets. Olivia is a graduate of George Washington University, with a bachelor's degree in journalism, political science and French, and she holds a master’s degree in communications from Sciences Po Paris.

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Best travel wallet 2024: document holders for those on the go

How to choose a sophisticated travel wallet to keep you safe and sorted on the road

• 1. Best overall travel wallet
• 2. Best versatile travel wallet
• 3. Best smart travel wallet
• 4. Best practical travel wallet
• 5. Best cheap travel wallet
• 6. Best minimalist travel wallet
• 7. Best travel wallet for RFID protection
• 8. Best waterproof travel wallet
• 9. Best compact travel wallet
• 10. Best multi pocket travel wallet

Best travel wallet 2024: Jump Menu

00. T3's top 3 ↴ 01. Best overall : Fjallraven Travel Wallet 02. Best versatile : Zoppen Travel Wallet 03. Best smart : Ekster Parliament Slim Leather Wallet 04. Best practical : Snugpak Grab A5 05. Best cheap : CampTeck Travel Wallet & Organiser Pouch 06. Best minimalist : Travando Slim Wallet 07. Best for RFID protection : Pacsafe RFIDsafe V200 Travel Wallet 08. Best waterproof : Lifeventure RFID Protected Document Wallet 09. Best compact : LifeVenture RFiD Mini Travel Wallet 10. Best multi pocket : Go Travel Document Organiser

Whether you’re travelling for business or leisure, keeping track of your passport, plane tickets, credit cards are coins can be a pain. Cue the best travel wallets or best travel document holders, which are a handy way to keep all your documents in one place.

It's one of those things that you never knew you needed until you spend your entire time at an airport constantly patting down your pockets and searching through bags and rucksacks for that elusive piece of the jigsaw – passport, boarding pass, money hotel details – until you drive yourself insane. 

With a simple flick through the pockets if a good travel wallet you find everything you need, allowing you to breeze through airports worry-free, leaving you to concentrate on relaxing (or maybe visiting the duty-free) before a flight. Whether you're a frequent flyer or you take a holiday once a year, you can be sure that there’s a travel wallet for you on our list for the best travel wallets in 2024.

Lizzie is T3's Home Staff Writer, also covering style, living and wellness. She works closely with Bethan Girdler-Maslen, T3's Home Editor, ensuring all the latest Home news, trends and recommendations are covered. Outside of T3, Lizzie can be found mooching around Bath, attempting (or at least trying to) a new DIY project or spending time with family and friends.

The best overall travel wallet

Made from Fjallraven’s own blend of incredibly durable G-1000 fabric, this travel wallet is no exception to their commitment to producing quality outdoor and travel gear; and the reviewers certainly agree, with many of them commenting on the toughness of the fabric. The only negative is the price - but let’s not forget you get what you pay for. 

Read more below

The best versatile travel wallet

If you’re looking for a travel wallet that blends style with substance, we think we’ve found the one. Yes, it’s PU leather not real leather and that slight disappointment is reflected in the reviews, but if you take a look at its neat envelope design and its variety of pockets, you’ll find that there isn’t too much to complain about. 

The best smart travel wallet

Ekster makes a line of voice-activated wallets, including this relatively traditional-looking credit card holder. However, beneath the handcrafted leather look is some serious tech. It's also compatible with Alexa and Google Home, which using a Chipolo tag can make your wallet emit a ring when you ‘say “where’s my wallet?” - pretty cool right!

Best travel wallets ranking 2024

Why you can trust T3 Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test .

1. Fjallraven Travel Wallet

Specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

Made from Fjallraven’s own blend of incredibly durable G-1000 fabric, this travel wallet is no exception to their commitment to producing quality outdoor and travel gear; and the reviewers certainly agree, with many of them commenting on the toughness of the fabric. 

Inside the nifty travel wallet, passports, boarding passes, cash, cards and even a pen can all be safely tucked away. The only negative is the price - but let’s not forget you get what you pay for. 

• Back to the top ⤴

2. Zoppen Travel Wallet

Your passport, boarding passes, money, phone and even your foreign sim card will be kept safe in its pockets, which, although for some, are on the tight side, will fit all your essentials for a compact travel companion. 

3. Ekster Parliament Slim Leather Wallet

Losing your valuables is one of the biggest fears while travelling. Can technology help? Ekster makes a line of voice-activated wallets, including this relatively traditional-looking credit card holder. However, beneath the handcrafted leather look is some serious tech; as well as space for nine cards, six of which can be protected by a layer of RFID-block, but the wallet is also compatible with Alexa and Google Home, which using a Chipolo tag can make your wallet emit a ring when you ‘say “where’s my wallet?”

Funded within three hours on Kickstarter, this Ekster wallet also offers worldwide traceability via a smart card so you can tell you where it was last seen on a map. That’s the same technology used by FedEx to track its containers. What’s more, it’s all solar-powered and doesn’t run out of charge for two months.

The best practical travel wallet

4. Snugpak Grab A5

If you’re an outdoors type who’s just as likely to find themselves in the wild as in an airport, you’re going to want a travel document holder with special skills. Cue the Grab A5 from sleeping bag-maker Snugpak. As well as documents, the Grab A5 – with is, naturally, the size of A5 paper, so fairly compact – has room for a pen holder and many other items in its small pockets (there’s even a dedicated phone pocket). The document storage section has a waterproof cover, which will add peace of mind if you go out on a hike. Zipped all around, it’s also got a small carry handle. 

The best cheap travel wallet

5. CampTeck Travel Wallet & Organiser Pouch

Thoroughly affordable and with plenty of storage, this travel passport wallet can fit four passports and up to six cards, and is plenty big enough for storing boarding passes, too. Unlike most of its rivals, this product includes space for extras; inside are two pen holders, a zippered mesh pocket for notes and coins, and even a tab for attaching keys. It's also got RFID-blocking technology built-in to protect everything inside the wallet, which zips shut along three sides. It’s not particularly stylish, but it is very cheap. 

The best minimalist travel wallet

6. Travando Slim Wallet

This clever bi-fold wallet is crafted in Germany, and it shows. It’s organised so well; there are seven card slots – six on the inside and one on the outside – but despite that it’s a mere 11.9x8.3x1.6 cm. Unlike most modern travel wallets, it’s designed to carry cash, with a stainless steel money clip integrated into the interior that securely grasps bank notes. The Travando is also constructed to protect against data theft by RFiD scanners.

The best travel wallet for RFID protection

7. Pacsafe RFIDsafe V200 Travel Wallet

If you’re looking for a no frills travel wallet that that keeps your cards, cash and receipts safe, this Pacsafe wallet could serve you well. While you can see from the design that there is room enough for up to 8 cards, there’s also a window pocket each for your passport and driver’s license and plenty of room for loose change. 

The manufacturer promises protection against identity theft, while the bracelet with its handy loop acts as a handy mechanism to prevent you from dropping it in the middle of the airport concourse. 

The best waterproof travel wallet

8. Lifeventure RFID Protected Document Wallet

RFID protected and featuring waterproof fabric and zip, this lifeproof travel document holder is the perfect practical solution to carrying around your documents. One side of the wallet is dedicated to travel money and cards, with 9 slots providing enough room for IDs, credit cards, debit cards and travel money cards. 

Thanks to its RFID protection, you don’t need to worry about identity fraud, especially if you’re travelling to areas where that kind of thing is rife, and with a smartphone stash pocket, too, you can make sure all of your necessities are safely tucked away, yet completely accessible for when you need them. 

The best compact travel wallet

9. LifeVenture RFiD Mini Travel Wallet

When you’re travelling, you’re going to be on a budget and if you’re planning on backpacking off the beaten track, Lifeventure has made sure this travel wallet is prepared for all circumstances. 

Find yourself waist deep in a river? It’s waterproof. Find yourself going through some sketchy looking areas? It protects against Radio-Frequency Identification devices. It boasts pockets for your passport, boarding passes, cash, cards and even your smartphone. It's the perfect compact travel wallet and for the price, and reviewers agree, you can’t beat it.

The best multi pocket travel wallet

10. Go Travel Document Organiser

This travel document holder is the perfect contender for the most amount of pockets featured in a small space competition. There’s several card slots, an ID slot, a travel money zipped pocket, a slot to put your boarding passes and enough slots for several passports, if you’re travelling as a family. 

It’s also good to note that this travel wallet provides RFID protection, so you can be completely sure that your identification is safe. Comments suggest that it’s fairly bulky in size, and therefore needs a large pocket for storing it away, aside from that, it’s the perfect practical travel companion. 

How to buy the best travel wallet for you

Your choice of travel wallet will partly depend on style. Leather screams ‘sophisticated businessman’, while durable, waterproof materials will appeal to those who only entertain travel-grade products that will last much longer than the air miles you collect. 

Having space for passports and cards is standard, but not all travel document holders have space for keys, pens, and cash, and even some electronics. 

You can find small travel wallets for single travellers, slightly bigger versions for couples, and whopping great A4-sized versions for large families and tour group leaders. They can be pocket-sized, or rucksack-sized, depending on your requirements. There are other things to think about, too.

Another aspect to consider is whether you want your travel wallet to provide protection against Radio-Frequency Identification devices (RFiD). Although rare, identification theft is an issue, and something you may or may not be worried out. Some of the best travel wallets block these devices, while others don’t, so it’s worth bearing it in mind when choosing. Ditto worldwide tracking, which adds even more peace of mind in case of theft. 

When it comes to the best travel wallets, you get what you pay for. There’s nothing wrong with being cheap and cheerful, but if you want a wallet to become your faithful travel companion, you’re going to have to stretch that budget.  

If you have a travel document holder, it's usefulness can spread beyond airports. Always take the same credit card when you travel? If you do have cards and documents that you only use when you travel – principally your passport, of course – a travel document holder is the ideal place to store them all when you are at home. Ditto emergency cash; no-one should go anywhere without at least US$50 in emergency cash (dollars are always better than pounds, especially when travelling outside Europe), and a travel document holder is the ideal place to keep it when you're at home as well as on your travels.

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Lizzie is T3's Home Staff Writer, also covering style, living and wellness. She works closely with Bethan Girdler-Maslen, T3's Home Editor, ensuring all the latest news, trends and recommendations are covered. Outside of T3, Lizzie can be found mooching around Bath, attempting (or at least trying to) a new DIY project or spending time with family and friends.

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Is It Safe in Moscow?

Stanislav Solntsev / Getty Images

When you visit Moscow , Russia, you’re seeing one of the world’s largest, and most expensive, capital cities . While there is a history of violent crime against foreign journalists and aid personnel in Russia, a trip to Moscow is usually safe for mainstream travelers. Most tourists in Moscow only face potential issues with petty crime, though terrorism is also a concern. Visitors should stick to the principal tourist areas and abide by the local security advice.

Travel Advisories

• The U.S. Department of State urges travelers to avoid travel to Russia because of COVID-19 and to "exercise increased caution due to terrorism, harassment, and the arbitrary enforcement of local laws."  
• Anyone exploring more of Russia should avoid "The North Caucasus, including Chechnya and Mount Elbrus, due to terrorism, kidnapping,   and   risk of civil unrest." Also, travelers should stay away from "Crimea due to Russia’s occupation of the Ukrainian territory   and   abuses by its occupying authorities."  
• Canada states travelers should use a high degree of caution in Russia due to the threat of terrorism and crime.  

Is Moscow Dangerous?

The Moscow city center is typically safe. In general, the closer you are to the Kremlin , the better. Travelers mainly need to be aware of their surroundings and look out for petty crime. Be especially careful in tourist areas such as Arbat Street and crowded places like the Moscow Metro transit system. The suburbs are also generally fine, though it is advised to stay away from Maryino and Perovo districts.

Terrorism has occurred in the Moscow area, leading authorities to increase security measures. Be more careful at tourist and transportation hubs, places of worship, government buildings, schools, airports, crowds, open markets, and additional tourist sites.

Pickpockets and purse snatching happen often in Russia, perpetrated by groups of children and teenagers who distract tourists to get their wallets and credit cards. Beware of people asking you for help, who then trick you into their scheme. Don’t expect a backpack to be a safe bag bet; instead, invest in something that you can clutch close to your body or purchase a money belt . Always diversify, storing some money in a separate location so that if you are pickpocketed, you'll have cash elsewhere. Keep an eye out for thieves in public transportation, underground walkways, tourist spots, restaurants, hotel rooms and homes, restaurants, and markets.

Is Moscow Safe for Solo Travelers?

Large cities like Moscow in Russia are overall fairly safe if you are traveling alone, and the Moscow Metro public transit is a secure and easy way to get around. But it is still a good idea to follow basic precautions as in any destination. Avoid exploring alone at night, especially in bad areas. You may want to learn some basic Russian phrases or bring a dictionary, as many locals don't speak English. However, in case you need any help, there are tourist police that speak English. Also, exploring with other trusted travelers and locals or on professional tours is often a good way to feel safe.

Is Moscow Safe for Female Travelers?

Catcalling and street harassment are infrequent in Moscow and the rest of Russia and females traveling alone don't usually have problems. There are plenty of police officers on the streets as well. Still, it serves to stick to Moscow's well-lit, public areas, avoid solo night walks, and use your instincts. Women frequenting bars may take receive some friendly attention. Females can wear whatever they want, but those entering Orthodox churches will be required to cover up. Though women in Russia are independent, domestic violence and other inequality issues take place regularly.

Safety Tips for LGBTQ+ Travelers

Russia is not known as a gay-friendly country. However, Moscow is one of the more welcoming cities with a blooming LGBTQ+ community and many friendly restaurants, bars, clubs, and other venues. Hate crimes in Russia have increased since the 2013 anti-gay propaganda law. Openly LGBTQ+ tourists in this conservative country may experience homophobic remarks, discrimination, or even violence, especially if traveling with a partner. Also, while women hold hands or hug publicly—whether romantically involved or not—men should avoid public displays of affection to prevent being insulted or other issues.

Safety Tips for BIPOC Travelers

Moscow  and other big cities in Russia have sizable populations of various cultures, so discrimination against BIPOC travelers is rarer than in other parts of the country where it can become dangerous. Some people living in Russia who are Black, Asian, Jewish, and from other backgrounds have experienced racial discrimination and violence. Tourists won't usually experience overt racism but may be the recipients of some stares. If anyone should bother you, be polite and resist being taunted into physically defending yourself.

Safety Tips for Travelers

Travelers should consider the following general tips when visiting:

• It's best not to drink the tap water. If you do, boil it before drinking, though showering is safe and the amount used to brush teeth is generally not harmful. Mineral water is widely drunk, especially at restaurants, and if you prefer not to have it carbonated ask for “ voda byez gaz” (water without gas).
• If you need emergency assistance in case of fire, terrorism, medical issues, or more, dial 112 in Russia for bilingual operators.
• Be judicious about taking photographs, especially of police or officials. This can potentially bring unwanted attention to yourself by members of law enforcement who won’t mind asking to see your passport. Also avoid snapping photos of official-looking buildings, such as embassies and government headquarters.
• Carry your passport in as secure a manner as possible. If you get stopped for any reason by the police, they can fine or arrest you if you don't have the document with you. Also, keep photocopies of your passport, the page on which your travel visa appears, and any other documents that relate to your stay in Russia.
• Use official taxis only and steer clear of illegal taxi companies, especially at night. Ask your hotel to call a reputable taxi company.

U.S. Department of State. " Russia Travel Advisory ." August 6, 2020.

Government of Canada. " Official Global Travel Advisories ." November 19, 2020.

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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