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Star Day Tour - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Star Day Tour - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Star Day Tour

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Top 6 Egypt Itineraries for 8 Days (2024/2025)

Are 8 days enough to truly experience the wonders of Egypt? Yes. Although 8 days may limit depth and scope, you could discover many of Egypt's iconic landmarks comfortably with the right planning and well-designed itineraries.

The capital, Cairo, is the essential base for all Egypt trips. For an 8-day trip, Cairo and a Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan is the most popular combo.

If you're seeking a leisurely vacation, Hurghada, Alexandria, and Sharm El Sheikh are great add-ons. If you prefer somewhere adventurous, consider Mount Sinai and the White Desert as excellent extensions. Adding a neighboring country would provide you with a quick glimpse of the Asian Middle East as well.

Read on to explore our six carefully-crafted itineraries and get tips on costs.

• 1. Itinerary with a Nile Cruise
• 2. Itinerary with the Red Sea
• 3. Itinerary with the White Desert
• 4. Itinerary with Mount Sinai
• 5. Itinerary with Jordan
• 6. Itinerary with Israel
• 7. Cost of an 8-Day Egypt Tour

1. A Classic 8-Day Egypt Itinerary with a Nile Cruise

If you are a first-timer to Egypt, this 8-day itinerary has been customized for many like you who want to take in the must-sees in style.

Following this classic route, you could marvel at the pyramids' enigmatic allure, sail along the storied Nile, and discover Luxor's temples as well as the tranquil beauty of Aswan.

Check out the following brief itinerary, for inspiration:

Days 1–3 in Cairo

• (the Giza pyramid complex, the Great Sphinx, the Egyptian Museum, the Cairo Citadel, a food tour, and the Khan el-Khalili market)

Cairo embraces both ancient and modern Egypt. In addition to the unrivaled pyramids, history buffs could immerse themselves in the treasures of the Egyptian Museum.

Foodies, you would have the chance to speak with the locals and eat as locals at the traditional markets. If you have specific dietary preferences, such as being vegan, we could customize the food tour to cater to your needs!

Days 4–8: Your Nile Cruise from Luxor to Aswan

• Days 4–5: Your Nile cruise departs Luxor (cruise check-in, Luxor Temple, the Karnak temple complex, the Valley of the Kings, the temple of Queen Hatshepsut, and the Colossi of Memnon)
• Day 6: Your Nile cruise continues with excursions (the Temple of Kom Ombo and the Temple of Horus in Edfu)
• Days 7–8: Your Nile cruise disembarks in Aswan (an Aswan city tour visiting the Aswan High Dam, the Philae temple complex, the Unfinished Obelisk, and Abu Simbel; cruise check-out)

Taking a 5-day cruise from Luxor to Aswan, you could have easy access to Abu Simbel in Aswan. If Abu Simbel isn't your top priority, you could go for the 4-day alternative from Aswan to Luxor. It could help to save you about US$200 per person.

Unlike typical group tours on cruise ships, we would provide you with a dedicated private guide throughout your shore excursions , ensuring the best possible experience for you.

If you are looking for unique experiences, you could take a traditional dahabiya. With just 5–6 cabins, you could relish enhanced privacy and an exclusive experience.

2. A Relaxing 8-Day Egypt Itinerary with Hurghada

If you're looking to infuse your first trip to Egypt with some beach fun, you will probably like this itinerary. It combines the historic wonders of Cairo and Luxor with the idyllic beaches of Hurghada over 8 days.

Here is a brief itinerary summary for your information:

• Days 1–3 in Cairo (a camel ride around the Giza pyramid complex, city tours with Old and New Cairo, and a day trip to Alexandria)
• Days 4–5 in Luxor (the Valley of the Kings, iconic temples, a sunrise balloon ride, and/or a nighttime city tour by horse and carriage)
• Days 6–8 in Hurghada (beach activities, such as snorkeling and diving, and a desert safari with a visit to a Bedouin village)

For any beach vacation, a boutique beachfront hotel offering unique experiences would undoubtedly be a bonus, particularly for your family trip or romantic celebrations. Are you looking to eliminate the hassle of choosing hotels? Reach out to us for a private Egypt trip featuring carefully-selected hotels that have been chosen for your preferences!

3. An 8-Day Egypt Adventure to the White Desert

If you'd like to unveil more hidden gems of Egypt, look no further than this itinerary. You would go deeper into the history and culture of Cairo, experience the White Desert, and relax in the coastal charm of the Mediterranean in Alexandria.

Have a look to see if this is your travel style from the following outline and highlights:

• Days 1–3 in Cairo (the Giza pyramid complex, the Great Sphinx, city tours including a food tour, and the Khan el-Khalili market)
• Days 4–6 in Bahariya (Bahariya Oasis, Crystal Mountain, the Black Desert, the White Desert, and desert camping)
• Days 7–8 Alexandria (the catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, the Lighthouse of Alexandria, and the Library of Alexandria)

Camping in the White Desert is one of the highlights of this 8-day trip. The best time to camp is from October to April, allowing you to escape the extreme heat. For a hassle-free experience, we highly recommend a private tour to manage navigation and government travel permits. When you choose to travel with us , we would take care of everything for you!

In Alexandria, you could explore the catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa and visit the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria, a symbol of maritime history. If you're traveling with teens, you probably won't want to miss the Library of Alexandria, one of the largest libraries of the ancient world.

4. An 8-Day Egypt Exploration of the Sinai Peninsula

Embarking on this 8-day Egyptian journey, you would follow a path that leads you from the vibrant streets of Cairo to the serene landscapes of the Sinai Peninsula.

Here is a typical Cairo–Sinai–Coast itinerary with a winding-down tour pace for your reference:

• Days 1–3 in Cairo (the Giza pyramid complex, the Great Sphinx, city tours, and the El Tannoura Dance Show)
• Days 4–5 in Saint Catherine (Saint Catherine's Monastery and a hike up Mount Sinai)
• Days 6–8 in Sharm El Sheikh (snorkeling, diving, and relaxing on the beach)

A Sinai Peninsula trip would not be complete without holy Mount Sinai and picturesque Sharm El Sheikh.

Hiking before dawn is quite popular for group tours. But we strongly recommend going in the afternoon for a serene trek as well as a more peaceful sunset spectacle. As travel permits are required for a visit to Mount Sinai, we recommend that you go on a private tour with an experienced guide to take you through check points.

What could be better than refreshing yourself on a tranquil beach after a meaningful hike? The soft-sand shores of Sharm El Sheikh's beaches provide the perfect setting to unwind.

5. An 8-Day Cultural Discovery Trip to Egypt and Jordan

If you're looking to experience more of the ancient civilizations of the Middle East, adding Jordan, a neighbor of Egypt, would be an ideal choice.

In this 8-day tour, you would explore Cairo, Amman, and Petra, allowing you to see the best of Egypt and Jordan in a limited time.

• Days 1–3 in Cairo (the Giza pyramid complex with a camel ride, the Great Sphinx, the Egyptian Museum, a sunset cruise on the Nile, the Khan el-Khalili market, and the El Tannoura Dance Show)
• Days 4–5: in Amman (the Citadel, the Roman Theater, the ancient city of Jerash, and a day trip to the Dead Sea)
• Days 6–8 in Petra (the Treasury, the Monastery, the Great Temple, the Royal Tombs, Petra by Night, and a day trip to Wadi Rum)

3 days in Cairo promises awesome pyramids, unrivaled treasures, local life, and the Nile. A sunset Nile cruise would provide a great backdrop for memorable moments, particularly during milestone trips.

In Jordan, you would experience the amazing serenity of the desert in Mars-like Wadi Rum and the magical Dead Sea. As well as that, Amman and Petra stand out for their historical marvels.

6. An 8-Day Pilgrimage Itinerary to Egypt and Israel

If you're seeking to immerse yourself in the sacred essence of the Middle East, this itinerary may be ideal for you. You would go through the spiritual heart of Egypt and Israel, including Cairo, Jerusalem, and Tel Aviv.

A classic route is suggested below, for inspiration. It includes 3 days in Egypt and 5 days in Israel.

• Days 1–3 in Cairo (the Giza pyramid complex with a camel ride, the Great Sphinx, the Hanging Church, Wadi El Natrun, the Khan el-Khalili market, and the Egyptian Museum)
• Days 4–6 in Jerusalem (the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Mount of Olives, and a day trip to Bethlehem)
• Days 7–8 in Tel Aviv (the ancient city of Jaffa, Carmel Market, and Tel Aviv Museum of Art)

In Cairo, beyond the iconic pyramids, you would delve into the city's spiritual fabric by visiting the Hanging Church and the serene Wadi El Natrun.

After Cairo, you would fly to neighboring Israel to discover its top two popular cities: Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. Jerusalem always tops the bucket lists of pilgrims. You would wander through its Old City to visit the millennia-old religious sites. You would also pay a visit to Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ. Concluding your trip in Tel Aviv would give you a sense of Israel's modern life and sea views.

If this 8-day pilgrimage trip doesn't fulfill your all your ambitions, you could extend your journey to Jordan and Turkey. Check out more details in our 24-Day Grand Middle East Bible Tour .

How Much Is an 8-Day Egypt Trip?

You could expect the price of an 8-day private Egypt tour to be about US$1,200–2,000 per person. Children under 10 could receive discounts of between 30% and 50%.

The bigger your family or the more friends you invite, the more money you could save. Going right before or after the peak time (November to March) would be beneficial to save some costs and still have the chance of catching some warmer weather. If you're celebrating Christmas and New Year in Egypt, consider departing before December 20th for more affordable international flight tickets.

Contact us , ideally 3-6 months in advance, for the best of the early-bird benefits. Specializing in customized private tours, traveling with us would also be helpful to optimize your costs and benefit from hassle-free experiences.

Booking Your Egypt Trip with Us

Want more itinerary options? You can get our handpicked itineraries for various durations: 5 days , 7 days , 10 days , 12 days , 14 days and 21 days ...

You are warmly welcomed to have us customize your own trip based on your group size, interests, and other needs. Sit back and use our Create My Trip service.

For inspiration, you could also see the following popular Egypt tours:

• 9-Day Essential Egypt Tour with Nile Cruise
• 10-Day Egypt Family Expedition Tour
• 12-Day Best Egypt Tour with Sharm El Sheikh
• 2-Week Egypt and Jordan Family Adventure Tour
• More Egypt Tours

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• 10-Day Private Egypt Active Family Expedition Tour
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• How to Plan a 7-Day Egypt Itinerary 2024/2025: Top 6 Options
• How Long to Spend in Egypt: Itineraries for First-Timers
• How to Plan a 10-Day Egypt Itinerary (Best 4 in 2024/2025)
• How to Plan a Trip to Egypt 2024/2025 & Itinerary Ideas
• Weather in Egypt in January 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Weather in Egypt in February 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Weather in Egypt in March 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Weather in Egypt in April 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Weather in Egypt in May 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Weather in Egypt in June 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
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• Weather in Egypt in October 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Weather in Egypt in November 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Weather in Egypt in December 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers

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Star day tour

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Star Day Tour

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STAR DAY TOUR: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

Excursion to the Star City, Moscow - the Gagarin Experience!

Tour schedule

• A full-size model of the Mir space station, used for the cosmonauts’ training program
• SOYUZ spaceships
• ISS Russian Segment Hall
• Currently closed!  A hydro-laboratory capable of accommodating a 20-ton space station module, used for simulating EVA (spacewalk) weightlessness training. The pool is 12 meters deep, 23 meters in diameter and 5,000 cubic meters in volume
• Currently closed!  Large TsF-18 centrifuge designed to simulate G-force during liftoff

Security clearance

• Hotels List
• Hotel Detail
• TRANSFER CAIRO
• GOLDEN CAIRO DAY TOUR
• FULL DAY CAIRO
• FULL DAY PYRAMIDS
• OVERDAY ALEXANDRIA
• BEST OF LUXOR
• TRANSFER LUXOR
• DENDERA & ABYDOS
• TRANSFER ASWAN
• FULL DAY ASWAN
• ABU SIMBEL FROM ASWAN
• TRANSFER SHARM EL-SHEIK
• TRANSFER TO TABA
• TRANSFER HURGADA
• TRANSFER TO LUXOR
• TRANSFER TO CAIRO
• TABA / ST CATHERINE / TABA

Classic Egypt

10 DR HANNEM MOHAMMED ST , TOURING , AL AHRAM

Guided tour

DÍA1. MADRID - LUXOR

Embarque en vuelo especial directo con destino Luxor. Llegada, asistencia por nuestro representante de habla hispana, trámites de visado, recogida de maletas, traslado al crucero. Distribución de habitaciones, alojamiento y cena.

DÍA 2. LUXOR - ESNA - EDFU

Pensión completa a bordo. El día de hoy lo dedicaremos a descubrir la maravillosa ciudad de Luxor, la antigua Tebas, que fue capital del Imperio Medio y Nuevo. Por la mañana posibilidad de realizar la visita de la Orilla Occidental, Patrimonio de la humanidad desde 1979, para conocer la majestuosa Necrópolis de Tebas. Visitaremos el Valle de los Reyes, el Templo de la reina-faraón Hatshepsut dedicado a la mujer que más tiempo estuvo en el trono de las "Dos Tierras" y los colosos de Memnon, dos gigantescas estatuas que representan al faraón Amenhotep III. Tras el almuerzo, visitaremos los templos de Luxor y Karnak, dos de los más espectaculares de Egipto y que antiguamente estaban unidos por la mítica avenida de las esfinges de unos 3 km de longitud. Vuelta al crucero, cena a bordo y alojamiento. Continuaremos navegación hacia Esna y tras el cruce de la Esclusa nos dirigiremos a Edfú.

DÍA 3. EDFU - KOM OMBO - ASWAN

Pensión completa a bordo. Por la mañana posibilidad de visitar el Templo dedicado al dios Horus en Edfu. Este templo dedicado al dios halcón es segundo más grande de Egipto después de Karnak y uno de los mejor conservados. Continuaremos navegación hasta Kom Ombo donde tendremos la posibilidad de visitar el Templo dedicado a los Dioses Sobek y Haroeris. La mitad sur del templo estaba dedicada a Sobek, dios de la fertilidad y creador del mundo y la mitad norte a Haroeris «Horus el viejo», al que se le consideraba como el iniciador de la civilización egipcia, dios del cielo, de la guerra y de la caza. El templo es atípico por ser doble y simétrico respecto del eje principal. Navegación hasta Aswan.

DÍA 4. ASWAN

Desayuno. Hoy tendremos la posibilidad de realizar la visita a Abu Simbel, los majestuosos templos de Ramses II y su esposa Nefertari. A la hora indicada se saldrá en bus hacia Abu Simbel, atravesaremos el desierto hasta llegar al lago Nasser al sur de Egipto. Estos impresionantes templos fueron excavados en la roca durante el reinado del faraón Ramsés II y dedicados a dicho faraón y a su esposa Nefertari, para conmemorar su victoria en la batalla de Kadesh y mostrar su poder a los nubios. En 1968, el complejo fue reubicado en una colina artificial, construida sobre el nivel del futuro lago Nasser. El traslado de los templos fue necesario para evitar que quedaran sumergidos tras la construcción de la presa de Asuán. Regreso al barco para la comida. Por la tarde posibilidad de realizar la visita del templo de Philae. Tomaremos una pequeña embarcación para realizar la visita de Philae donde disfrutaremos del maravilloso espectáculo de luz y sonido que nos ofrecen en esta mágica isla. Allí admiraremos el templo dedicado a la diosa Isis, rodeado de otros templos y del famoso Quiosco de Trajano, templo egipcio construido por el emperador romano. Noche en Aswan a bordo.

DÍA 5. ASWAN - EL CAIRO

Desayuno a bordo. Por la mañana podremos disfrutar del barco o de alguna de las excursiones opcionales que nos ofrecerá nuestro guía.  Comida y a la hora prevista traslado al aeropuerto para tomar el vuelo con destino a El Cairo. Llegada, traslado al hotel y alojamiento. Posibilidad de disfrutar de una visita opcional por la animada noche cairota. Daremos un paseo por la bulliciosa calle Al-Muezz, una de la más antiguas de la ciudad de El Cairo. En su, aproximadamente, un kilómetro de largo, alberga, según la UNESCO, la mayor concentración de tesoros arquitectónicos medievales del mundo islámico. Nuestro paseo terminará en precioso edificio medieval donde podremos admirar el impresionante espectáculo de danza y música sufí de los derviches. Terminaremos la noche con una cena en un restaurante local con vistas al mágico Nilo.

DÍA 6 . EL CAIRO

Desayuno. Por la mañana visita de la conocida como explanada de las pirámides. La necrópolis de Guiza es la mayor del Antiguo Egipto, con enterramientos desde las primeras dinastías, aunque su esplendor lo alcanzó durante la IV dinastía, con la pirámide de Keops, también conocida como la Gran Pirámide, la de Kefrén y la, relativamente pequeña, Micerino. También visitaremos el Templo del Valle de Kefrén, a 500 m de la Pirámide del mismo nombre, casi intacto al haber estado cubierto por la arena hasta el siglo XIX. Y junto al templo la gran Esfinge con una altura de unos veinte metros y 57 metros de longitud. La cabeza podría representar al faraón Kefrén con cuerpo de león. En épocas antiguas estaba pintada en vivos colores: rojo el cuerpo y la cara, y el nemes que cubría la cabeza con rayas amarillas y azules. Tarde libre. Alojamiento. Por la tarde posibilidad de realizar la visita de Sakkara, en la ribera occidental del Nilo, fué la necrópolis de la antigua ciudad de Menfis. Visitaremos la pirámide escalonada de Zoser, erigida por Imhotep el primer arquitecto de nombre conocido de la historia. En su época, fue la construcción más elevada del mundo y prototipo de las siguientes pirámides egipcias. Seguiremos para admirar la preciosa tumba de Kagemni, uno de los chatys (visir) de la sexta dinastía y gobernador de Menfis. Su tumba contiene relieves policromados considerados entre los más bonitos del Imperio Antiguo. Luego descubriremos la pirámide Teti, desde fuera solo veremos lo que parece una pequeña colina, ya que la conservación por encima del suelo es muy mala, pero por debajo las cámaras y los corredores están muy bien conservados. Para terminar esta magnífica visita conoceremos la mastaba de Ptahhotep, escriba que ejercía como administrador y chaty (visir) durante la quinta dinastía. ​Esta tumba tiene una decoración excepcional.

DÍA 7. EL CAIRO

Desayuno. Por la mañana posibilidad de realizar un tour de día completo, visitando el enigmático Museo Egipcio de Antigüedades inaugurado en 1902. Cuenta con más de 136.000 objetos clasificados de diferentes épocas de la historia egipcia. Después nos dirigiremos a la Ciudadela de Saladino, una fortificación islámica medieval construida por Saladino como protección contra los cruzados. Allí podremos admirar la magnifica Mezquita de Alabastro, la más grande a comienzos del siglo XIX y la más visible de la capital egipcia por su elevada ubicación y la altura de sus minaretes. Mas tarde nos dirigiremos al barrio copto, como se denomina a los cristianos egipcios. Paseando entre sus callejuelas podremos descubrir, la iglesia de Santa María, conocida como Iglesia Colgante, del s.IV lo que la hace el templo cristiano más antiguo de la ciudad, la iglesia de San Sergio, del s.V, construida sobre la cueva en la que, se dice, se cobijó la Sagrada Familia en su huida de Herodes y la sinagoga Ben-Ezra, del s.VII, la más antigua de Egipto, entre otros muchos secretos que nos ofrece este mágico lugar. Terminaremos nuestro tour en el bullicioso Bazar de Khan el Khalili fundado en 1382. Un inmenso zoco de estrechas callejuelas con miles de pequeñas tiendas atestadas de mercancías, calles repletas de gente, mesas a las puertas de los cafés y pequeños talleres de artesanos. No os podéis perder el famoso café El-Fishawi (de los espejos), abierto las 24 horas desde hace 200 años, lugar de reunión para los artistas locales que era frecuentado por Naguib Mahfuz, premio Nobel de Literatura y uno de los autores más conocidos de Egipto. Regreso al hotel y alojamiento.

DÍA 8. EL CAIRO - ESPAÑA

A la hora indicada, traslado al aeropuerto para tomar el vuelo de regreso a España. Llegada y fin de nuestros servicios.

EL ORDEN DE ESTE ITINERARIO PUEDE VARIAR, SIN AFECTAR AL CONTENIDO DE LAS VISITAS

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• Moscow Travel and City Excursions

Our 20 Best Moscow Day Tours of 2022

See all that Moscow has to offer by choosing one or more of our incredible Moscow day tours. Visit Red Square , St. Basil’s , the Kremlin or perhaps a vodka museum and the fantastic Moscow metro system , we have it all. Our expert, informative and fun guides will help you get to know Europe’s largest city. Please click on the day tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page.  You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

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

• Schedule Daily 10:00 - 19:00

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

• Schedule Monday not available Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 10:00 - 17:00 Thursday 12:00 - 19:00

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

• Schedule Monday not available Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 12:00 - 19:00 Thursday 14:00 - 21:00

Express to Russia specializes in Moscow city excursions, an essential part of your Moscow travel itinerary. We offer a large variety of day excursions throughout Moscow and its suburbs. From  Red Square  and the  Kremlin  to a city tour of Moscow’s  Old Arbat Street  or the  Moscow metro , an excursion specializing in Stalin and the KGB and much more. No travel to Moscow is complete without taking a few of our day tours that most meet your interest in Russia.

Moscow City Tours

Our Moscow day excursions can be organized on foot or with transport. All of our excursions are led by an experienced guide, specializing in the subject matter of the tour. Excursions are privately run and can be booked for 1 traveler all the way up to large groups of travelers. We run our Moscow city tours in every season. This is because travel to Moscow is excellent in any season. In the summer take a stroll through  Gorky Park  or take a riverboat tour along the Moskva River. In the winter, see Moscow’s winter wonderland of ice and snow and then settle in for a cozy lunch or dinner with a hot bowl of borsht. In winter, spring and fall, you can beat the crowds at all of Moscow’s main attractions and museums. Regardless of when you come, Express to Russia will make sure that your trip is one of your best vacations ever.

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The unmissable addition to Disneyland’s Star Tours ride? Space whales

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Disneyland’s Star Tours: The Adventures Continue has proved to be one of the theme park’s most versatile attractions.

Though perhaps no longer the groundbreaking technological marvel that it was when it debuted in 1987, the flight simulator ride has shifted with the franchise, withstanding cultural trends and aligning with whichever version of “Star Wars” is popular at the moment — or in need of a marketing boost.

The latest update to Star Tours brings the ride into the Disney+ era, with nods to series such as “The Mandalorian,” “Ahsoka” and “Andor.” More noteworthy, at least for Disneyland guests, is that the centerpiece of the latest upgrades is a scene that provides a slight tonal shift for the attraction, one focused, albeit briefly, on slowing down and giving so-called starspeeder riders a look at one of “Star Wars’” more majestic creatures. Star Tours will now rocket guests straight to a moment that boasts a close-up with the purrgil, essentially large, mysterious space whales that move with a galactic grace.

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For the 3-D attraction, it’s a moment that provides a breather. The motion simulator lingers for a few seconds, and our makeshift animatronic captain, the golden droid C-3PO, turns to face riders. C-3PO shifts into tour guide mode, appearing in awe of the purrgil and commenting on how serene the animals are.

“This will be different from other sequences, to have a moment,” said Tom Fitzgerald, a senior creative executive with Walt Disney Imagineering, the company’s secretive arm devoted to theme park attractions, when asked about taking a patient approach to the scene. “You don’t get many moments. It’s so compact. But it’s a moment to let people look at the beauty of this, and the 3-D gives you the scale of those creatures.”

The additions to Star Tours are arguably the centerpiece of Disneyland’s all-things- “Star Wars” promotion Season of the Force , which debuted this past weekend and runs through June 2. The “Star Wars” festival also sees new droids making their way to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge through the duration of the event, as well as the return of Space Mountain overlay Hyperspace Mountain and a new free scavenger hunt that aims to get players to pay close attention to the minute details of Galaxy’s Edge.

Fitzgerald has been with Star Tours since the ride’s beginning, and oversaw the latest Star Tours additions, which further deviate the attraction from any strict “Star Wars” timeline and instead focus it on being a sort of “greatest hits” for the brand. The purrgil scene also features Rosario Dawson’s Ahsoka Tano and the character’s svelte, fast-rotating starship above the planet of Seatos. Tano’s ship inspired Imagineers to see if they could add some new tricks to the attraction, mainly in the way the simulator can move. When Tano’s vessel twists and spins, for instance, the starspeeder attempts to mimic it, endeavoring to create the feeling of a 360-barrel roll. At other times, the starspeeder glides among the purrgil.

Key to Star Tours’ longevity, and what makes it the rare motion simulator that doesn’t feel rooted in the 1980s, is its ability to create new sensations via its movements. The ride now has more than 250 storyline variations, and when adding to the attraction, Imagineers are looking for ways to heighten the contrast among its various scenes, both tonally and in its maneuvers. Though Star Tours is typically randomized — for the foreseeable future, and definitely throughout Disneyland’s spring Season of the Force promotion — all riders are guaranteed to visit the new location and receive an early-flight transmission from one of the recently added characters.

“How do we make each of the places we go have a different color palette?” says Fitzgerald, who then recalls different “Star Wars” planets that can be featured in the attraction’s random programming. “Mustafar is all lava. Kashyyyk is all green jungle. So they feel very different when you get the combos. And then motion-based. Could we do a barrel roll? That’s the fun of doing it, and programming it and trying it. And we needed something else. What have we not done? So with the purrgils, what if we do skiing through the tentacles? We had never done that. So those are the two big motion changes.”

The attraction is also livened up by appearances from Dawson’s Tano, Diego Luna’s Cassian Andor and a masked Din Djarin from “The Mandalorian.” While the latter is played and portrayed by Pedro Pascal on the Disney+ series, many have noted that the Djarin on “Star Tours” features a slightly different vocal cadence than Pascal, and an Imagineering spokesperson says the company is not revealing its voice actors for the attraction. Nevertheless, “The Mandalorian” moment features some comic relief — and clever 3-D usage — courtesy of Grogu, colloquially refered to as “baby Yoda,” and his penchant to use Force powers to toy with and eat frogs.

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The three appear as transmissions that help define the suddenly urgent narrative of Star Tours. “Each one is different,” Fitzgerald says. “Mando and Grogu we played for comedy. And Andor is mysterious. You don’t see his face. You see this thing coming toward you. Is that a friend or foe? And then he pulls his hood and the music changes.” Tano, meanwhile, arrives like an old friend who knows C-3PO and fellow droid R2-D2. Riders are advised to pay close attention to the opening cinematic in a ship’s hangar, as there is a new randomized opening that features Tano in a lightsaber battle with Stormtroopers.

As for why the new additions perhaps lean a bit more heavily on “Ahsoka,” as it is that series that features the planet of Seatos and the purrgil, Fitzgerald had a simple answer: Yes, it’s the space whales.

With access to early scripts from Lucasfilm, Fitzgerald says he singled out the purrgil scenes. “Reading about that, not knowing what they looked like initially, I was going, that’s going to be really cool.” And, at least for a few seconds, relatively calming.

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Serving style: All of Zendaya’s tennis-themed ‘Challengers’ red carpet looks

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This star was born to serve.

While fashion fans might have thought Zendaya mastered the art of themed dressing during the “Dune: Part Two” press tour, she took things up a notch by wearing one tennis-themed outfit after the next to promote “Challengers” in spring 2024.

Zendaya and her stylist, Law Roach , collaborated on a number of court-ready looks as the “Greatest Showman” star hit the red carpet in iconic cities like Paris, London, Sydney and Milan.

In the film, which hits theaters April 26, she plays a former tennis pro turned coach who finds herself in a love triangle between her husband and ex-boyfriend — and the “Spider-Man: Homecoming” star made sure to nail home the sporty theme with plenty of on-the-nose ‘fits.

And while she kicked things off in quite a literal way by wearing a tennis ball green gown with an image of a player on the front, the former Disney star has also gone with a more subtle approach during other tour stops.

From crisp white suits to glittering gowns, check out all of Zendaya’s standout looks from the “Challengers” press tour, below.

Serving in Sydney

Zendaya got the party started in Sydney, Australia in March — and set the tone for the entire press tour — by sporting a custom green Loewe gown featuring a graphic of a tennis player holding a racquet.

The plunging sequined dress also included a thigh-high slit and a tennis ball design just below her chest, and she wore her newly dyed blond hair in a side-swept updo.

The “Dune” star rocked another custom ‘fit for a photo call in Sydney, wearing a white crop top and matching high-waisted briefs by Lacoste. She covered up the hot pants with a sheer white maxi skirt featuring metallic silver thread, adding Bulgari jewels as she posed on a sunny rooftop.

Vintage vibes

The actress — who is dating Tom Holland — went for a 1960s-inspired look during a “Challengers” photo op in Paris, wearing a checkered Louis Vuitton coat dress from its spring/summer 2013 ready-to-wear collection.

Zendaya paired the swinging sixties mini with a pair of white pumps, further committing to the retro aesthetic by wearing her hair in a side-swept ‘do that was pulled back with a white headband.

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Tennis ball green

Zendaya chose another lime green look (and archival Louis Vuitton piece) for a different photo call the same day, rocking a shiny button-down shirt and matching trousers that mimicked once again the color of a tennis ball.

She showed off her toned abs by leaving the bottom three buttons of her spring/summer 1999 Louis Vuitton top undone, teaming the look with metallic platform heels.

Parisian glam

Zendaya went for tennis whites again when she wore a custom Louis Vuitton creation to walk the red carpet at the “Challengers” premiere in Paris . She wore the style — which featured a strapless corset top and sheer skirt sweeping into a train — with a wide white belt worn low on her hips.

The movie star also showed off long blond hair extensions for the night, styling her new ‘do in soft waves and accessorizing with a Bulgari diamond statement necklace and coordinating rings and earrings.

Well-heeled

She went for a more literal look with a pair of white Loewe pumps featuring real tennis balls spiked through the heels, wearing the tennis-themed ‘fit to an April 2024 photo call in Rome.

While she might not have been able to play in her custom shoes, the “Euphoria” star looked ready to hit the court in a sparkling silver tennis dress (also by Loewe) featuring a plunging neckline, drop waist and pleated skirt.

No top, no problem

The “Shake It Up” star definitely shook up her red carpet style when she arrived to the “Challengers” premiere in Rome later the same night. Zendaya went braless under a custom white Calvin Klein blazer for the occasion, pairing her bare look with a long white maxi skirt.

And while she went sans top with her jacket, it only put a bigger spotlight on the dazzling Bulgari snake necklace she wore wrapped around her neck.

Tennis whites

Zendaya rocked another custom creation at the “Challengers” premiere in London on April 10, wearing a Wimbledon-inspired white drop-waisted gown with a polo-shirt style neckline.

The chic Thom Browne gown — which featured a high slit and red and navy stripes at the bottom— was covered in a tonal tennis racquet print that gave a nod to the Wimbledon logo. She added white pumps, Bulgari diamonds and an on-trend hair bow to her red carpet look.

Stripes and feathers

The actress went in a much different reaction for a photo call in London, wearing a red, white and blue striped set by Vivienne Westwood featuring a whimsical feathered tail attached to the bottom.

The outfit was another vintage piece sourced by Law Roach, with the vest and miniskirt hailing from the designer’s spring/summer 1994 ready-to-wear collection. Zendaya wore her blond hair pulled back in a Barbie-like curled ponytail with clip-in bangs and sported white pumps for the event.

Honoring the greats

Zendaya showed off a chic white sleeveless top and a pleated skirt while promoting the film in Monaco — and her look honored the classic tennis ensembles worn by Althea Gibson, the first black tennis player to win a Grand Slam.

“THANK YOU to the team at @on running for recreating the ICONIC tennis white of Althea Gibson,” Roach posted on Instagram April 13, tagging athletic retailer On, which also designed her white sneakers.

Country club classic

The “Euphoria” star went for a preppy two-piece look as she posed in a white cable-knit Brunello Cucinelli sweater and maxi skirt amid the tennis action at the Monte-Carlo Masters. Zendaya took photographs high above the court at the Monte-Carlo Country Club while sporting the collared knitwear and a cream-colored skirt with a high slit.

The “Challengers” star — who wore her hair down in side-swept waves — showed off some leg in the pics, revealing her beige pumps as she attended the match.

Supermodel style

Zendaya wore another vintage ‘fit for a “Challengers” photo call in Milan on April 14, rocking a simple white split-necked dress once worn by Cindy Crawford on the Ralph Lauren runway in 1991. She teamed the full-skirted minidress with her go-to white pumps and beloved Bulgari jewelry once again, wearing her hair in a voluminous wavy style.

Crawford herself shared praise for the look on her Instagram Story, writing, “@zendaya serving it up in one of my favorite @poloralphlauren dresses!”

Bubblegum ballgown

Zendaya broke away from her tennis whites and greens with a surprisingly sensual pink look at the movie’s Los Angeles premiere on April 16.

She sported a lingerie-inspired pink-and-black Vera Wang ballgown on the red carpet, with the custom piece featuring a black corseted top with sheer lace panels and garter details. Its voluminous pink skirt split in front to reveal black tulle detail and the Bulgari ambassador accessorized with the designer’s glittering diamond earrings.

Afterparty baller

Once inside the theater, Zendaya changed into a more suitable-for-sitting style, swapping her Vera Wang gown for a racy Celia Kritharioti dress designed in the same color as a tennis ball.

She also wore the ultra-plunging look — which featured a real tennis ball attached to the front — to the movie’s afterparty in Beverly Hills, keeping the rest of her ‘fit simple to let her naval-grazing gown do the talking.

What styles will Zendaya serve up next? Only time will tell.

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Moscow Itinerary: How To Spend 3 Days In Moscow

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: March 2, 2023

Categories Trans Mongolian Express

Moscow is the capital of Russia and there are few cities in the world that have played such a significant part in history.

Home to the Kremlin, the Red Square, the colorful St. Basil's Cathedral, and many more famous landmarks, Moscow is a city like no other.

This Moscow itinerary will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in Moscow. From the best places to see in Moscow to how to get around, this post has got you covered.

Moscow itinerary

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

Moscow 3 day itinerary: map with highlights

Click here for the interactive map .

What to do in Moscow in 3 days

• Day 1: The Red Square, GUM Department Store, St. Basil's Cathedral, Lenin's Mausoleum, and the State Historical Museum.
• Day 2: The Kremlin, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, Gorky Park, and the Bolshoi Theatre.
• Day 3: Izmailovsky Market, Bunker 42, and Zaryadye Park.

Important things to know when planning a trip to Moscow

The best time to plan a trip to Moscow is April-May and September-October . During these months temperatures are (generally) quite comfortable, though even in April there can be a bit of snow! The summer months are hot, both in regard to temperature as well as activities in the city. While it's a nice time to visit, it's also the busiest time of the year to visit Moscow. Hotel prices reflect this as well and summer definitely isn't a great time for budget travelers to visit Moscow. Winter in Moscow is cold, and I mean seriously cold (-15°C isn't rare). However, if you can withstand the subzero temperatures and freezing winds, it can be a magical time to visit. A snow-covered St. Basil’s Cathedral is a sight you will never forget. Keep in mind that days are short in winter and be sure to bring plenty of warm winter clothes!

The official currency in Russia is the Russian Ruble (₽ or RUB). Here you can find the current exchange rates, at the time of writing €1 is approximately 70RUB and $1 is around 62RUB.

Yes, you probably do. Getting a visa for Russia requires a bit of time and effort. You need to fill out several forms and provide a detailed travel itinerary and information about your accommodation. Also, you will need a Visa Support Letter which can be provided by your travel agency or your hotel. Depending on your nationality, there may be additional requirements, please refer to the information provided on the website of your country's Embassy in Russia.

While most of the things to see in Moscow listed in this post are within walking distance of each other, sometimes you will have to travel a bit further afield. The best way to get around in Moscow is by metro. It's cheap and efficient and a sightseeing activity in itself, because Moscow has the most beautiful metro stations in the world ! Among the most exquisitely decorated stations are Komsomolskaya, Novoslobodskaya, Mayakovskaya, Taganskaya, and Prospect Mira Station, but there are many more worthwhile stations to be found in the Moscow underground. You can purchase a single ticket from one of the ticket machines or get a rechargeable Troika Card when you plan on taking the metro several times. Read more details on how to use the Moscow metro here . If you prefer to get around by taxi, that's possible too. We used the Gett app to order a taxi (similar to Uber) to avoid confusion about our intended destination and having to negotiate in Russian. A convenient extra for families is the Gett Kids option, these cars are outfitted with a car seat.

The best things to do in Moscow

While you could easily spend a week in Moscow (or more), most of us, unfortunately, don't have that much time available.

This 3-day Moscow itinerary will guide you to the most popular and important places to visit in Moscow, as well as to some of the more unusual things to do in Moscow.

Below you can find the list of the Moscow sightseeing highlights included in this post.

The Red Square

Gum department store, st. basil's cathedral, lenin's mausoleum, the state historical museum, the kremlin, cathedral of christ the saviour.

• The Bolshoi Theatre

Izmailovsky Market

Zaryadye park.

Plan your trip like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals on Kiwi.com . ? Get the best car rental deal for your road trip on Rentalcars.com . ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours via Get Your Guide , Viator or Klook . ? Plan your journey with the  Lonely Planet . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Moscow itinerary day 1

There is no better place to start your first day in Moscow, than at the world-famous Red Square.

This square is considered the central square of Moscow, not just because all the major streets start here, but also because no matter where you look when standing on this square, there are historic buildings all around.

Starting with the impressive GUM store and going clockwise, there is the colorful Saint Basil's Cathedral, the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, the State Historical Museum, and the Kazan Cathedral.

However, before entering any of these Moscow must-see attractions, allow yourself a moment to take in the view and let it sink in that you're standing on historical grounds (and a UNESCO site).

The Red Square was the official address of the Soviet government and played an important part in history. Many military parades have been held (and are still being held) here. It's the place where protests have taken place, as well as high-profile concerts from famous international artists.

All in all, it's one of the places in Moscow you can't miss during your Moscow city trip!

Yulia from That's What She Had: it might seem like visiting a department store is not something you’d do on the first visit to Russia’s capital.

But GUM is not like any other department store and is well worth your time, if only for its unique architecture.

First of all, it’s located right on Red Square which makes it an easy stop on your Moscow trip itinerary. Second, GUM is not a simple mall, but an institution built in the late XIX century.

The abbreviation stands for  Glavniy Universalniy Magazin or Main Universal Store. Its impressive facade extends for over 240 meters along the eastern side of Red Square.

Inside you’ll find a beautiful glass ceiling supported by a metal framework, not unlike the ones found in the old train stations of Great Britain. 

While shopping in GUM will cost you an arm and a leg, there’s one reason why tourists and locals come here anyways:  traditional Russian food  at Stolovaya #57. Stolovaya is Russian for canteen and this is where you can get your  pelmeni , borsch , and  pirozhki  fix!

Afterward, don’t forget to get the famous  plombir  ice cream in one of the kiosks on the ground floor.

Saint Basil's Cathedral with its colorful domes is easily recognizable and one of the most popular Moscow tourist attractions. The building, built on orders from Ivan the Terrible, was completed in 1561 to commemorate the victory over Kazan and Astrakhan.

Until the construction of Ivan the Great Bell Tower (which can be found within the walls of the Kremlin), it was the tallest building in Moscow.

The design of St. Basil's Cathedral is truly unique; it's shaped like the flame of a bonfire and not one building in a similar style can be found in the whole of Russia.

A legend tells the story of how Ivan the Terrible had the architects of the Cathedral blinded so they could never build anything comparable.

This is a myth, however, but the fact remains that Saint Basil's Cathedral is one of a kind and it's not surprising it has become the symbol of Russia.

Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan: Lenin Mausoleum is hard to miss. It's a stepped-pyramid construction that sits right at the base of the Kremlin walls on the western side of Red Square.

Entrance is free but note that opening hours are quite limited, with visiting hours lasting only from 10 am to 1 pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

If seeing Lenin's embalmed body is important to you, be sure to take this into account when planning your itinerary in Moscow.

One of my  top tips for travelers to Russia  is to arrive early, well before the mausoleum opens, as the queue is usually quite long. However, usually, the queue does move pretty quickly.

This is especially true now that they have lifted the ban on bags and cameras.

It used to be that all cameras, smartphones, and bags of any size had to be checked at a left-luggage office nearby. But now you can bring a small handbag or backpack as well as your camera and phone.

Photography inside the mausoleum is still strictly forbidden, but you are allowed to take photos of the graves of various other important Russian figures that line the path leading to the mausoleum.

Once you finally enter the mausoleum, the atmosphere is surprisingly peaceful and uncrowded. It doesn't feel nearly as rushed as when visiting Mao Ze Dong's tomb in Beijing or Ho Chi Minh's body in Hanoi , for example.

The illumination of the body is very well done and would make for superb photography if it wasn't forbidden. As an added bonus, just after you exit, you'll see the grave of Joseph Stalin outside.

Rai from A Rai Of Light: the imposing crimson building at the northern end of the Red Square is the State Historical Museum.

By decree of Alexander III, the museum was built with the support of Russian historians, philosophers, and artists. The red brick building, dating from 1875, was designed in the Russian revival style by Vladimir Shervud.

The National Museum of Russia houses a collection of over four million items, devoted to the history of the country's ancient and imperial period.

The exhibitions include many items previously owned by members of the Romanov dynasty, such as documents, artwork, personal items, furnishings, and decorations from the palace interiors.

Another exhibit features relics of the prehistoric tribes that once inhabited this region.

Notable items include ancient manuscripts, birch-bark scrolls, a longboat excavated from the banks of the Volga River, and the largest coin collection in Russia, sourced from the museums in St Petersburg .

The State Historical Museum is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm. The entrance fee is 700₽ per adult.

Moscow itinerary day 2

When listing the best Moscow things to do, one cannot miss the Kremlin! The Kremlin houses the current seat of power in Russia and has done so for several decades.

Within its walls, the offices of the Russian Government can be found. During Soviet rule, the Kremlin was where all the important decisions were made but its history goes back for many centuries.

The first mention of the Kremlin in history books was in 1147, however, the current citadel dates from the 16th century.

The Kremlin is one of the major fortifications found in Europe, with walls that are up to 6.5 meters thick and 19 meters high in particular sections.

Inside the complex, there are many government buildings, however, these aren't accessible to the public.

Around Cathedral Square you'll find (as the name suggests) many churches and cathedrals, such as the Cathedral of the Archangel, Annunciation Cathedral, the Church of Laying Our Lady's Holy Robe, and Ivan the Great Bell-Tower.

While Cathedral Square is definitely worth visiting, the highlight of the Kremlin is a visit to the Armoury.

Inside you can find an impressive collection of Faberge eggs, beautiful dresses worn by Catherine the Great, intricately decorated thrones used by the Tsars, and much more. Unfortunately, photography is forbidden inside the Armoury.

Practical information about visiting the Kremlin

In order to visit both Cathedral Square and the Armoury, you will have to buy two separate tickets. A ticket to Cathedral Square costs 700₽ and a ticket to the Armoury is 1000₽. Prices mentioned are for adults, children below 16 years old are free.

Tickets can be bought at the ticket office onsite on the same day, however, there's no guarantee tickets will be available, especially during peak season.

Conveniently, tickets can be bought online as well, which is highly advisable if you want to make sure you'll be able to visit the Kremlin during your city trip to Moscow.

How much time to spend at the Kremlin

Be sure to allow plenty of time to explore the Kremlin, at least half a day but it's easy to spend more time as there is so much to see.

Please note there isn't any food sold inside the Kremlin, so bring a snack and enough water (especially in summer when it can get pretty hot).

Luggage storage

Backpacks aren't allowed inside the Kremlin, they can be stored (for free) in the cloakroom, but you can bring your camera and a small purse.

We could also take our Babyzen Yoyo stroller inside, which was very convenient as our 10-month-old son could take a nap while we explored the sights.

After the original Cathedral of Christ the Saviour was demolished by Stalin in 1931, a new version was completed in 2000.

The imposing building is the tallest Orthodox Christian church in the world (103 meters high), and is beautiful on the outside as well as on the inside.

Visiting the Cathedral is free of charge and it's open any day of the week from 10 am to 5 pm (except on Mondays when the opening hours are 1 to 5 pm).

When visiting the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour it's important to dress appropriately. For men, this means no shorts or tank tops.

Women can't enter with mini skirts or shorts, strap tops, or anything too revealing. Also, women are advised to cover their heads with a scarf as a sign of respect.

Inside the Cathedral photography isn't allowed, but believe me when I say there is plenty to see. There are beautiful frescoes, colorful icons, impressive statues, and other vivid decorations.

For a beautiful view over Moscow, walk up the stairs to the 40-meter high observation deck (entrance fee 400₽).  

Visit Gorky Park

Helen from Holidays from Hels : Gorky Park, named after the Soviet writer Maxim Gorky, has recently undergone extensive regeneration to become Moscow's central leisure hub for young Muscovites.

Every day of the week you can find many Moscow residents strolling along the banks of the river in the summer, hiring bikes, picnicking on the grass, or dining at one of the many restaurants.

Open-air cinemas, petanque, and ping pong are all on offer. Not to be missed is the iconic white stone entranceway and museum, complete with columns carved with Soviet hammers and sickles.

In winter, look out for the ducks waddling across the frozen Moskva River, and watch boats attempting to navigate through the cracked ice. However, the real winter highlight is to try ice skating on one of the biggest rinks in Europe!

Ice skating in Gorky Park

The park’s maze of pedestrian pathways is transformed into one huge skating rink, which can play host to up to four thousand skaters. 

Not surprisingly, Russians are talented ice skaters and there is a good chance you will find yourself next to a pirouetting ballerina.

Handily, you will find you will already be wearing most of what you need – gloves, hat, scarf, and thick socks and you can hire skates on-site. Lockers are included in the price if you don’t fancy skating with your day pack.

Disco tunes fill the air, and the whole arena is backlit in spectacular neon lights. Rest your weary legs and warm up at one of the cafes dotted along the frozen pathways, with the added bonus of not having to take off your skates.

Opening times

The rink is open from 10 am until 11 pm on weekdays and until midnight at weekends but closes between 3 and 5 pm. Like most attractions in Moscow, the rink is closed on Mondays. 

The prices range from 350-650₽ and go up in the evening, which is the best time for the light show. Arriving at 5 pm, just as the rink opens for the evening session will give you time to find your ice legs before it fills up with more confident skaters.

Whilst waiting for the rink to open, try out the nearby tubing track where you can shoot down a snowy hill on an inflatable ring repeatedly for a very enjoyable half an hour!

How to get to Gorky Park by metro

The nearest metro is Park Kultury Station, on the other side of the river. As always, check out in advance what this looks like in the Russian Alphabet so you know when to get off!

Bolshoi Theatre

James Ian at Travel Collecting : one of the best places to go in Moscow is the famous Bolshoi Theater, located only a short walk from Red square. Bolshoy means big in Russian, and the theatre is not only big but also beautiful.

There are two ways to see the theater: on a guided tour or by watching a performance .

Take a guided tour

• English tours are held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 11:30 am. Tickets for these tours can be bought (on the same day) at the ticket office located in the Historic building of the theatre (door #12).
• A ticket costs 2000₽ per person, tours last one hour, and the number of people on a tour is limited to a maximum of 20. The tour takes you inside the theater and to the historic main stage.

Watch a performance

My favorite way to see the theater, though, is to enjoy a performance and experience the theater as a patron.

The entrance is a little underwhelming when you first arrive, the street lobby is small and quite plain and you will be immediately directed up to your floor.

There are helpful attendants on each floor to guide you to the correct door. Arrive a little early and head up to the Grand Salon on the top floor where you can enjoy a glass of champagne while people-watching (Russians dress up for the theater).

Then head to your seat and take in the stunning theater before enjoying the famous Bolshoi Ballet or another performance.

Be sure to book a show at the historic stage, there is a modern stage as well but that isn't nearly as much fun.

Moscow itinerary day 3

Karen from WanderlustingK : one of the most interesting Moscow places to visit is the Izmailovsky Market .

This flea market and tourist attraction a bit outside of the tourist center is a recreation of a Tzar’s Palace, known as a Kremlin, produced in a colorful 16th-century style.

The market is filled with tiny stalls that sell everything from snacks to kitsch to authentic items from Soviet times such as hats, pins, and other pieces of memorabilia.

You'll also find authentic antiques such as vases, paintings, and other religious items if you're looking to splurge within the interior parts of the market.

Negotiating in English is not always possible as many vendors only speak Russian, so be sure to practice your Russian numbers and see how well you can do with haggling.

It's important to carry cash when you visit given that many vendors do not accept cards. We ended up purchasing a series of hats at the market, along with a beautiful hot tea glass with a metal holder with a typical Russian scene.

Elsewhere in the market, you’ll also find a few tourist shops that sell typical Russian products. It takes a few hours to see the market in full, so arrive early as the best items go quickly! 

Lindsey from Have Clothes, Will Travel : Bunker-42 was once a top-secret, Soviet military complex. Stalin commissioned its construction after the United States succeeded in creating a nuclear bomb.

An impressive 65 meters (or about 213 feet) underground, was the desired depth to protect Russia’s top officials from a nuclear attack.

Bunker 42 became operational in 1954. Fortunately, it was never needed for its true purpose, and instead it was used as the command center of strategic bombers for nearly 30 years.

Nowadays it's a museum dedicated to the Cold War and visiting is a truly unique experience!

You will need to join a tour in order to see the museum. You can call ahead to book your tour (the number is: +7 499 703-44-55), there are several English tours throughout the day that are held at 13:30, 16:30, and 18:30 (the price is 2200₽).

On Mondays, there is an extra tour at 17:30, which lasts an additional 30 minutes and costs 2800₽ per person. There is also the option to book a private tour. However, I am unsure of the price for this.

You will have to wait until exactly 15 minutes before your tour begins before you'll be admitted inside. After paying for your tickets and a quick restroom stop you will descend 65 meters underground…

Another option for visiting Bunker-42, if you would rather not do the tour, is to visit the restaurant inside Bunker-42. Actually, I highly recommend visiting the restaurant before or after a tour as well!

While the food is not that great, it’s worth visiting for a drink. The restaurant is also located within the bunker and is decorated in the old Soviet style.

From time to time there will be live performances and visiting Bunker 42 is definitely an experience worth having while in Moscow! After all, how many people can say they've had a drink in a top-secret Soviet military bunker?

If you’re visiting Moscow during peak season (June-July-August), it would be worth making a reservation, to avoid having to wait. Otherwise, I would not say you need to worry about a reservation at the restaurant.

Bunker-42 is a short cab ride away from Red Square (10-15 minutes). But I recommend taking the metro to get there. The closest station is Taganskaya, which is a beautiful metro station very much worth visiting.

Park Zaryad'ye or Zaryadye Park is a lovely place for a stroll and a nice place to relax after a day of sightseeing in Moscow, especially when exploring Moscow with kids.

There are many things to see and do in this park, but I recommend starting your visit at The River Overlook , a 70-meter-long boardwalk with beautiful views over the river and the Kremlin.

Other interesting places to visit in Zaryadye Park are the Ice Cave, The Museum of Nature, and The Glass Crust. But most importantly, do as the Muscovites do and find yourself a nice place in the park to sit down and relax.

Enjoy the view, do some people-watching, and take a moment to think back about all the Moscow top sights you've seen in the past couple of days.

Where to stay in Moscow

There is a huge amount of hotels in Moscow, ranging from budget hostels to exquisite 5-star hotels. Below you can find three well-reviewed Moscow hotels (rating of 8.5+ on Agoda and  Booking ).

3-star hotel in Moscow: MIRROS Hotel Mokhovaya

This 3-star hotel is one of the best budget Moscow hotels and is all about location! From the hotel, it's just a 10-minute walk to the Kremlin and only 600 meters to the Christ the Savior Cathedral.

Set in a historic 19th-century mansion, the hotel features classic rooms with ensuite bathrooms.

The staff is friendly and there is a metro station nearby (Borovitskaya), making it easy to get to the Moscow attractions a bit further afield.

Click here to book

Modern hotel in Moscow: Barin Residence Myasnitskaya

The Barin Residence Myasnitskaya is a newly built hotel, located about 1.2km from the Red Square (about a 15-20 minute walk).

The rooms and bathrooms are very modern and clean, the beds are comfortable and room service is available. This hotel is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a nice hotel without a hefty price tag.

Luxury hotel in Moscow: Hotel National Moscow

Hotel National is potentially the best Moscow hotel. It's a gorgeous 5-star hotel located just a stone's throw away from the Bolshoi Theater, the Red Square, and the Kremlin.

The building was designed by architect Alexander Ivanov and completed in 1903 and has been welcoming international travelers ever since.

With its imperial architecture, luxury design, and charming classic rooms (some with a view of the Kremlin!), the Hotel National is a unique property.

Furthermore, you can enjoy an indoor pool, sauna, and fitness center as well as the well-reviewed Beluga restaurant that serves both Russian and European dishes.

While this hotel doesn't come cheap, your stay at the Hotel National will make your trip to Moscow an unforgettable experience.

Moscow itinerary and travel guide: in conclusion

I hope this guide to Moscow will help you plan a trip to this interesting Russian city. Feel free to ask any questions you may have by leaving a comment or  sending me an email !

Below you can find my other posts about the Trans Mongolian Express , and the stops we made along the way:

• St. Petersburg itinerary
• Irkutsk and Lake Baikal itinerary
• Ulaanbaatar itinerary
• Trans-Mongolian Express travel guide

This post was updated in December 2020.