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Best Things To Do in Gran Parque Nacional Pico Turquino

Gran Parque Nacional Pico Turquino, also known as Sierra Maestra National Park or Turquino National Park, is one of Cuba’s most spectacular natural wonders. Located in the Sierra Maestra Mountains of southeast Cuba, the park is home to several mountain peaks towering over 1,000 meters, including the highest point in the country – Pico Turquino, which stands at 1,974 meters high.

In previous years, Turquino National Park’s land was used for its natural resources, with its raw materials, like mahogany, marble, and cedar, being taken advantage of. As a result, this park has been declared a Protected Rural Area.

With breathtaking views, lush forests, and abundant wildlife, this national park is a paradise for both nature lovers and thrill seekers. Keep reading to discover some of the best activities in Gran Parque Nacional Pico Turquino.

Getting to Turquino National Park

There are two starting points for hiking Pico Turquino: one that begins in the village of Las Cuevas, and another that starts in Santo Domingo.

If you want to get to Las Cuevas, you can take a local bus from Santiago de Cuba to Chivirico. Then, you’ll transfer buses to continue to Las Cuevas.

You can also take a taxi from Santiago de Cuba to Las Cuevas, or from Chivirico, but this can be expensive if you are travelling alone.

Getting to Santo Domingo can be trickier, as no public bus service stops there. You can get a bus from Bayamo to Bartholomé Masó and then hope to hitch a ride from there to Santo Domingo. Otherwise, taking a taxi is likely the best option – you’ll definitely need to travel via car for the last 5 kilometres to Alto de Naranjo, as this is a very steep ascent.

Best sights in Gran Parque Nacional Pico Turquino

Gran Parque Nacional Pico Turquino boasts stunning views of the Sierra Maestra Mountains, lush vegetation, and a wide variety of wildlife, creating a memorable experience.

In addition to spectacular views, green spaces, and ultra-high peaks, Turquino National Park is also home to La Comandancia de la Plata, which is the former headquarters of Fidel Castro’s rebel army. Visitors can hike an easy (but stunning) trail leading to the small museum detailing the living conditions of these men.

Hiking trails in Gran Parque Nacional Pico Turquino

Hiking is a popular activity in Gran Parque Nacional Pico Turquino. The park has numerous trails suitable for all levels, from easy paths for novice hikers to more challenging trails for experienced trekkers. One of the most popular hikes in this national park begins at Alto de Naranjo, a difficult 8-kilometre path that takes hikers to the summit of the highest peak in the country.

Bodies of water in Gran Parque Nacional Pico Turquino

Gran Parque Nacional Pico Turquino is also home to some of Cuba’s most beautiful bodies of water, where travellers can dip their toes in the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea.

Maria del Portillo is one of the best beaches in this park, with grey sand and blue water. This beach is home to an International Diving Center and horseback riding opportunities. Visitors can also enjoy several water activities, including fishing, rafting, scuba diving, boating, and marine safaris.

The park’s lagoons and beach areas are great for swimming and snorkelling. The water is crystal clear, and you can explore the underwater world and observe diverse marine life.

Camping in Gran Parque Nacional Pico Turquino

Gran Parque Nacional Pico Turquino is an excellent place for camping. There are numerous campsites throughout the park, so you can choose your own spot and set up a tent. The park also has cabins available for rent if you don’t feel like bringing your own tent to the wilderness.

Flora, Fauna, and Wildlife in Gran Parque Nacional Pico Turquino

The park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, with over 3,000 species of plants and over 500 animal species. The flora in the park includes various types of trees, shrubs, and herbs, while the fauna consists of birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals such as the Cuban Hutia, Cuban rock iguana, and Cuban solenodon.

The park contains many endangered and threatened species, such as the Cuban parrot and Cuban boa. This national park provides a safe and natural environment for these species to thrive and survive, and visitors are encouraged to observe and appreciate them from a distance.

In addition to the more common animal species, the park is also home to many rare and endangered species, such as the Cuban solenodon and the Cuban trogon. The park also boasts many freshwater lakes, rivers, and streams, providing an important habitat for many fish species and amphibians.

Birdwatching

Birdwatching in this park is a one-of-a-kind experience. The park is home to a wide variety of birds, including the Cuban black hawk, Cuban trogon, Cuban parrot, and the Cuban tody. All of these birds can be seen in their natural habitat as they feed, nest, and fly around the park in search of food.

Birdwatchers will also have the opportunity to observe several endangered species. In addition to the spectacular bird species, you’ll enjoy the lush vegetation, the variety of wildlife, and the stunning views of the Sierra Maestra mountain range. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars!

Climbing in Gran Parque Nacional

The main draw of this park is its highest point – Pico Turquino, also known as Turquino Peak.

Climbing Turquino Peak is a challenge for many Cubans and visitors, and there are two primary routes. The first climbing route goes north to south, and the other goes south to north. You can also choose whether or not to return to the same path on your way down to the top.

Another more seldom-used climbing route is Alto del Cojo. While this is similar to the north-south route, it is harder to find, with little lodging or accommodation available nearby.

Final Thoughts

Gran Parque Nacional Pico Turquino is a must-see attraction in Cuba. From spectacular sights to challenging hikes, this stunning park is sure to leave an impression on anyone who visits it.

Love Cuba  is the UK’s leading  Cuba holiday specialist .  Click here for more info  on  Cuba holidays ,   Multi Centre Cuba Holidays  or  Tailor Made Cuba Holidays  please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team of  Cuba holiday specialists  on  0207 071 3636  or email  [email protected]

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Feet in the clouds: climbing Cuba’s highest peak

A spectacular and dangerous trek up Pico Turquino reveals a side of the island often overlooked

F ireflies appeared like sprites in the forest when we were still a long way from home. The sun had gone down in a burst of brilliance over the mountains, including the thickly wooded slope where, 61 years ago, Fidel Castro and a small band of guerrillas had taken refuge to prepare a revolution. Darkness was stealing through the trees, exquisite but frightening.

It had taken us far longer to reach Cuba’s highest point – the 1,974-metre summit of Pico Turquino – than expected, and now with a moon that was little more than a sliver of a smile, we’d been caught on the mountain.

My girlfriend and I had driven 500 miles from Havana, gently southeast along almost three-quarters of the island. It’s a journey where a sidewards glance can make you feel like you are in the late 1800s, what with the horse-drawn buggies, the campesino farmers in sweat-rotted straw hats and the clapboard houses.

We passed through Santa Clara, where children take rides round the town square in a shrunken version of a horse-drawn carriage pulled by a billy goat. And Camaguey, where the citizens carry themselves with the dignity of cattle ranchers. On the road, we passed a rusting truck releasing thousands of racing pigeons.

Come the third night, we headed south and mountains rose out of the rice paddies. Finally we reached Santa Domingo, a farming village in the eaves of deeply wooded slopes. It’s the main access point to the Sierra Maestra from the north.

I’m not sure where the idea to climb the mountain had come from, perhaps it was because it’s a rite of passage for Cubans and my girlfriend had never done it. Looking up was daunting so instead we sought out our cabin at the government-run Villa Islazul. Built in the 1980s, it was set next to a beautiful babbling brook. Not that we’d know; the hut had no windows and just one bright overhead light, but it was a paradise compared to what was coming.

Before heading for the mountain itself, we visited the comandancia where in 1958 Fidel, Che and Celia Sánchez hid out, an easy hour-and-a-half walk from the road-head (a road that wasn’t built back then). We peered into the various wooden buildings hidden under the trees. I imagined the rebels listening to the bombers flying over.

As we turned towards the mountain, we were joined by a hummingbird and a Cuban fellow walker made one of those little quips that indicates the revolutionary fervour has dimmed a little. “Yes, Cuba,” he said. “Home to world’s smallest orchids, hummingbirds, butterflies and wages.”

La Platica, where we put up, is magical. From a terrace where a rooster is in a perpetual territorial conflict with two cats, we looked out on the most perfect tree fern. Plain food was cooked on open fires. But in its lack of comfort, it challenged my love of the rustic. In the morning, while eating a breakfast of unidentified fried objects, one of the cats emerged from our bunkroom with a rat. Companionably, it decided to eat it beside us.

At 7.30am we started to climb, our guide now Miguel Gonzalez Garcia. His great-grandfather had been one of seven farmers summarily executed to discourage others from helping Fidel’s rebels. We followed the trail between wild banana trees and under soaring royal palms, as Miguel played Name That Tune, the most beautiful of which was that of the solitaire, or Cuban nightingale. He also pointed out the bijirita, a black-throated blue warbler, and the famed national bird, the tocororo. The last appeared in the high tops, in its smart red, white and blue outfit.

At lunchtime we stopped at the refuge where we would sleep that night for a quick lunch of tuna, rice and beans, and then ploughed on, starting with a climb up one of Pico Turquino’s little sisters, rising nearly 1,000ft in less than half a mile. In all, the day would see us walk 11 miles, which doesn’t seem so bad until you’ve faced the path’s rickety ladders, its every treacherous, rocky, cliff-edged step. The park staff have planted signs to encourage walkers on. One reads, Arriba Corazones – Arise Hearts.

With each footfall, we pushed further into cloud forest and the view, already heart-stopping in its scale, became greater still. In chill air unlike any I’ve known in Cuba, I watched the east open up to reveal the Caribbean thousands of feet below.

Still on we went, following a ridge up and down over peak after peak, until a last brutal climb led us to the top. Absurdly, the thick forest means that at the very top there is no view, only a statue of the poet hero José Marti. We were too tired to celebrate. Instead we checked the time, and found it was now 5pm. After eating a chunk of what my girlfriend had sold to me as a great delicacy of the Camagüey region, and which turned out to be fudge, we hurried back down the trail, with three hard miles to cover before dark.

After the explosive sunset – a sight only a lucky fool sees from the top of a mountain – the light evaporated from under the forest canopy. As we picked out our path with increasing difficulty, I thought of Giselle , the ballet where fireflies are the spirits of women wronged in love, come to exact revenge. It stuck in my mind as Miguel guided us down the vertiginous, muddy and rocky steps by the light of a mobile phone, my girlfriend gently singing to calm her nerves.

We made it to the refuge, and then, the next day, down the mountain. To recover we drove two hours to the north, stopping in the picture-perfect coastal village of Gibara , not far from where Christopher Columbus landed in 1492. We ate octopus, drank piña coladas, listened to salsa and swam in the sea, so very grateful that we would never have to climb that mountain again.

Journey Latin America (020-3553 9647) offers a 16-day self-drive holiday in Cuba that includes the trek to the Comandancia and up Pico Turquino , from £2,670pp . The price includes flights from Gatwick, car hire, accommodation on a B&B basis in cities such as Havana, Cienfuegos, Trinidad, Camagüey, Bayamo, Santiago de Cuba and Santa Clara, as well as excursions and a Cuban tourist card visa

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Pico Turquino National Park, Cuba

The Pico Turquino National Park is home to the highest mountain in Cuba. Visitors can access this forested, remote park from the small community of Santo Domingo.

The Pico Turquino National Park is set within the Sierra Maestra, a massive mountain range that runs along much of southeastern Cuba. These mountains are large and lovely, with tall peaks, clean creeks, and dense forests. Few people live up here, but there is a small settlement at Santo Domingo that provides travelers with easy access into the national park.

The Pico Turquino National Park extends across 43,120 acres (17,450 ha). Cuba’s tallest mountain, Pico Turquino, is contained within the park—at 6,476 feet (1,974 m) tall, it’s a world away from Cuba’s coastline. Hikes to the summit are one of the most challenging excursions in Cuba. From the trailhead at Alto de Naranjo, it’s an 8-mile (13-km) hike to the top. Along the way, you’ll pass several rural communities and some seriously beautiful terrain. Most hikers reach the summit on the first day and then descend to the community of Aguada de Joaquín to spend the night. The final few miles are completed the following day. Guides are required.

The park protects important plant and animal species, including 100 species of plants that are endemic to this area. Lower elevations are home to montane forests, while the upper reaches of the park have cloud forests. You’ll see orchids, bromeliads, and ferns, and may even spot the bee hummingbird, the smallest bird on earth.

Fidel’s rebel headquarters – known as La Comandancia de la Plata – are also found within the park. Visitors can visit the headquarters on a guided hike. The hike takes about 45 minutes and passes lovely terrain. At La Comandancia, you can see Fidel’s house and the small hut that Che Guevara used as a hospital. This area was home to several important battles in the war against Batista.

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Pico Turquino is Cuba's highest peak, superlative in more than meters, for it sits in the heart of the Gran Parque Nacional Sierra Maestra, stronghold of Fidel Castro and Che Guevara's rebel army that successfully ousted dictator Fulgencio Batista in 1959. There are two routes for this summit hike, one beginning at Alto del Naranjo in Granma Province, the other beginning at Las Cuevas on the southern coast of Santiago de Cuba province. The former has some distinct advantages as it allows hikers to take in Comandancia de la Plata (mountain headquarters to Fidel, Che, Camilo and the rest (8 men!) of the 'M-26-7' rebels) and is spread over two or three days, permitting a more gradual elevation gain and better vistas. The latter has the advantage that you can plan your trip from Santiago de Cuba to organise your (private) transport from there and have a few stopovers at some beaches along the way. It's hard to get (private) transport when you have started in Alto del Naranjo. A disadvantage is that you have to ascend 2,000 meters in 9.6km of trail in 4 to 6 hours and, if you don't continue to Alto del Naranjo, a 3 to 4 hours descend that same day. Going down can be a 'knee-breaker'. The Sierra Maestra is a National Park full of endangered or endemic animals, including the smallest toad in the world (1cm / 3rd inch), millions of birds, giant ferns and wild orchids inside beautiful cloud forests. A bust of José Marti, the independence heroe of the second independence war, has been placed on top of Pico Turquino.

• Getting There

International flights go to Havana, Holguín and Santiago de Cuba. And local flights from Havana to Bayamo (or by bus from Holguín to Bayamo) for transport by bus, car or taxi to Villa Santo Domingo. From Villa Santo Domingo by 4WD, truck or powerful rental car to Alto del Naranjo. If you fly in from Santiago de Cuba, it's a 2-hour drive to Bayamo. If you want to start at Las Cuevas, Santiago de Cuba is your place from where you organise your trip. By private 'taxi' (like everything in Cuba taking a non-registered taxi is illegal) it will take you 2 hours to La Mula, excluding the stopovers for pictures and beaches. You can rent a cabin near the beach at La Mula Campismo. From there, it's a 12 km drive to Las Cuevas in the morning. A round trip from Santiago de Cuba by private driver, who also spends the night in La Mula, should cost you no more than 50 to 60 convertible pesos per taxi. You can also take the 'daily' bus.

There is a 20 convertible pesos fee, including a compulsory Cuban guide, to enter the National Park. US citizens: There is a US embargo on Cuba for all US citizens. They are only allowed to travel to Cuba with a certain permission, which is hard to get. It became even harder to get a permit when Bush became president. If you are not a student or a Cuban American, forget about this permit and focus on the detours via Toronto, the Bahamas, Jamaica or Mexico. Approximately 100.000 US citizens travel each year to Cuba though. (I even came across a US criminal offence attorney in Havana) They cannot get money from their US credit cards/accounts. It is not possible to book your detour flight to Cuba from the US. And they should not get their US passports stamped by Cuban customs or avoid getting an international transit stamp in Toronto or elsewhere. If you are caught, the fine is usually between US$ 1,000 and $ 7,500. Read the internet and guide books. There is a lot of information on this subject.

• When To Climb

It is best to climb in the dry season from October to May.

There is a campground, La Mula, 12 km east from Las Cuevas and there are several refuges and campsites on both trails.

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Below are three photos of one of the many valleys around Pico Turquino; a giant fern and a Cuban snale crossing the path.

View Pico Turquino Image Gallery - 27 Images

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Children refers to the set of objects that logically fall under a given object. For example, the Aconcagua mountain page is a child of the 'Aconcagua Group' and the 'Seven Summits.' The Aconcagua mountain itself has many routes, photos, and trip reports as children.

• Pico Turquino--Cuba, Part 1 (2014)

Parents refers to a larger category under which an object falls. For example, theAconcagua mountain page has the 'Aconcagua Group' and the 'Seven Summits' asparents and is a parent itself to many routes, photos, and Trip Reports.

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Pico Turquino Trekking

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Cuba hiking tour - pico turquino.

Feel the pulse of Cuba (and your own heart) on this exciting cultural and active tour that hikes to Cuba’s highest peak, Pico Turquino. Located in southeastern Cuba, Pico Turquino is within the Sierra Maestra mountain range, the birthplace of Cuba’s revolution. At the northern edge of the Sierra Maestra, near the town of Bayamo, Carlos Manuel de Céspedes freed his slaves in 1868 and made a declaration of independence from Spain. While real freedom didn’t come to Cuba for another 90 years, Cubans are proud of the long history of revolution that planted its roots here in the Sierra Maestra.

In 1980, Turquino National Park was established to protect this revolutionary history as well as the unique tropical ecosystem of the area.  As we approach the mountains, we see firsthand the blue hues of the peaks, from which the name Turquino came, a corruption of the Spanish word for turquoise, “turquesa.”  Fewer than 500 people a year climb the summit. While most approach and return on the mountain’s north side, we hike the entire trail, starting in the north and ending on the Caribbean coast south of the mountain.  This full descent from summit to sea is a feat that fewer than 100 people accomplish each year. 

Within the Turquino National Park, we also visit the Comandancia de la Plata, where Fidel Castro’s rebel army hid out during the last six months before the final push into Havana in late 1958. The three-mile (5 km) roundtrip hike is a good warm-up the day before we start the hike towards Turquino.  

Before the hike, we have a brief visit to the city of Holguin, known as Cuba’s “City of Parks.”  On our way to the Sierra Maestra, we also stop in the town of Bayamo, founded in 1513 as the second of Cuba’s original seven cities. Horse-drawn carriages and bicycles are the main forms of transport around town.

After summiting Pico Turquino and reaching the Caribbean coast, we drive east to Cuba’s second-largest city, Santiago de Cuba and to spend time exploring the streets, music, and culture of this lively waterfront port.

The trip is designed to take advantage of flights that arrive in Holguin and depart from Santiago.  It can also be easily combined with our eastern Cuba sea kayaking tours , or other walking itineraries that we operate in the east of the island.

Note that for those that wish, there is an alternative to climbing to the summit and instead, traveling east to a lodge nestled in the mountains, hike and explore that area and then rejoin the group in Santiago.

Important Details

Although the elevation of Pico Turquino is only 6476’ (1974 meters), it’s a tough climb due to numerous ascents and descents. Our approach from the north climbs from roughly 3100’ (1000 m) to 6476’ (1974 m) but the trail’s ups and downs easily triple the altitude gained.  On the first day of the climb, we spend one night at a mountain refuge which is a very basic bunkhouse.  The next day we rise by 5:00 AM to reach the summit some 3-4 hours later.  Once at the summit, we continue south for a seven-mile, 6476’ descent all the way to the Caribbean Sea!

This is a knee jolter and much more enjoyable if you train and are prepared.  No technical gear or skill is needed.  It’s simply a hike up and then down the other side.  However, it’s not easy and you need to be in excellent shape to enjoy it.  Seasonal rains can also make the trail muddy and slippery, adding to the difficulty.  For those up to the challenge, the reward is fantastic! The hike passes through a tropical forest and there’s plenty to learn from our local guide.  The views from the top are tropical and beautiful, but not spectacular.  The draw here is to know that you’ve climbed Cuba’s highest peak and seen a part of the world that few others see.

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*This itinerary is designed so that we may provide an alternative for those who may not be physically fit enough to reach the summit.  For those seeking an alternative, it’s possible to instead visit a mountain resort called El Salton for some less strenuous hiking.  If we do have people doing this alternative, we reunite the two groups after one night apart.

Arrive Holguin, Cuba 

Arrive Holguin, (served by American Airlines and Jet Blue).  Have lunch at a local paladar (private restaurant), then learn about this “City of Parks” with a relaxed walking tour of Cuba’s fourth largest city. Later in the day we check into our Casa Particulars (Bed & Breakfasts), each hosted by a local family.  This is an ideal way to meet Cubans in a relaxed way and learn about their daily lives. We dine out at another paladar and for those with energy, enjoy an evening stroll and the local music scene.

ACCOMMODATION : Casa Particulars

MEALS INCLUDED : Lunch, Dinner

Holguin to Bayamo, hike to La Comandancia de la Plata, then to Santo Domingo 

Departing from Holguin, we drive an hour south to Bayamo.  This relatively small city is where Cuba’s independence movement started in the 1860’s. We stroll the streets to learn about Bayamo’s role in Cuban history.  We continue south into the mountains and on to the small village of Santo Domingo.  From here we ride in a SUV about 3 miles up a very steep incline to Alto del Naranjo, elevation 3116’.  To start our 2.5-mile roundtrip hike (about 3 hours) to visit La Comandancia de la Plata, Fidel’s rebel army headquarters in 1958.  We visit the collection of wooden buildings, visit a small museum, learn the stories, enjoy a picnic lunch, then hike back out.  

We return to the hamlet of Santo Domingo to spend the night in local accommodations. 

MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Santo Domingo to Aguada del Joaquin (option to go to El Salton)

In the morning, if anyone of the group is opting to not hike to the summit, they will transfer to our vehicle and travel back to Bayamo, then east to a small village near El Salton.  Here a local guide will show you the area including lovely waterfalls, coffee plantations and small farms.

The main group starts out with our local National Park guide for a 5-mile hike that will take about 4.5 - 5 hours.  Our destination is the trekking hut at Aguada del Joaquin at 4482’ for a net elevation gain of about 1366’.  Although the distance is not great, the trail is somewhat demanding due to the ups and downs and possible mud if it’s raining.  The total elevation hiked in the day 2611' up, and roughly 1200' down.  Simple dinner and overnight at a very simple mountain bunkhouse. Extra water is available at the bunkhouse camp. Because we have to carry our own gear (a detailed list is provided), we leave much of our gear in our vehicle to be transferred to Santiago.

ACCOMMODATION : Simple bunk house, outhouse facilities, primitive shower may be available

Summit Pico Turquino 

We rise by 5:00 am for our final ascent to the summit.  It’s another 3 miles and 1994’ elevation gain to reach the peak at 6476’.  The goal is to reach the summit by 8:30-9:00 am.  After enjoying the summit, we continue to the coast, 7 miles and 6476’ down.  On the ascent, it’s very steep, with crude steps in some places.  On the way down to the coast, walking poles are a necessity.  It’s hard on the knees.  We plan 5 -7 hours for the descent.  The views of the Caribbean Sea below are stunning.  

Once on the coast, we have lunch, then drive about 2.5 hours east to Santiago de Cuba where we reunite with anyone who may have left the group yesterday.  

For those that chose not to summit, the day is spent hiking near El Salton with our local guide. You visit a small mountain village, and then a farmhouse for a farm-to-table lunch and a great interchange with a local family to learn about their life in the mountains.  The walk is a total of about 5 miles with roughly 600’ elevation gain total, through forests and small coffee plantations.  There’s an optional swim in a small river.  Return to the vehicle and drive about 3 hours to Santiago de Cuba, Cuba’s second-largest city.  Here we reunite with the others.

Dinner and overnight in Santiago de Cuba.  Optional evening outing to listen to Cuban music!

Explore Santiago de Cuba

A full day to explore Santiago de Cuba.  First up we go to the Plaza of the Revolution with its monumental bronze statue.  A short drive takes us to the cemetery Ifigenia, where Cuba’s National Hero Jose Marti is buried as is Fidel Castro.  After watching the changing of the guard, we continue to San Juan Hill where Teddy Roosevelt led the Rough Rivers in 1898 during the Spanish-Cuban-American War. We have lunch, then head to the Moncada barracks where the revolution had an inopportune start.  After lunch we visit the House and Museum of Velasquez the first Governor of Cuba who settled Cuba on behalf of Spain starting about 1512.  Then it’s a casual stroll on the longest pedestrian boulevard in Cuba that leads about a mile to the sea. Overall it’s a fascinating day in Santiago, learning and meeting with local Cubans along the way.

Sunset takes us to a rooftop terrace to view the harbor and urban landscape.  Dinner at a local paladar ends the day except for those seeking to enjoy more of Santiago’s vibrant music scene.

To airport for late morning flight

We leave our accommodation early in the morning to transfer to the airport.  As of April 2023 American Airlines has daily flights from Santiago de Cuba to Miami, scheduled to leave late morning.

If you have time, we recommend extending your stay in Santiago by a day.  You could explore on your own, or we can arrange for another day of guided touring.

*Note this trip is available as a custom tour on any date.  Limited scheduled departures are also offered. It can easily be combined with other walking tours of the east, including traveling to Cuba’s oldest town, Baracoa.

MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast

**Travel in Cuba requires a flexible attitude. Our days are full, and as required by U.S. law, we have a full-time agenda of Support for the Cuban People activities.  Cuba has it’s own beat and things don’t always run on time. The activities and visits listed are not guaranteed but we endeavor to do our best to provide the content intent of this Support for the Cuban People program.  Visiting developing countries can be eye-opening and life-changing, and hopefully visiting Cuba is both. Accommodations may not be up to the standards you are used to.  Sometimes the hot water or air conditioning doesn’t work.  We ask all our guests to appreciate the authenticity of your cultural encounters as well as the people, food, culture, and adventures that are exceptional in their differences.  Our local guide, along with your Cuba Unbound Tour Leader promise to do their best to make this a fascinating and educational experience.

Dates & Rates

Supplementary information.

Dates: Guaranteed departures for 4 or more people! Please inquire today to begin the booking process.

Note: $1790 per person price based on a minimum of 4. Itinerary available by request for two or more people.  Add $300/person for groups of 2-3.

• Experienced Cuba Unbound Tour Leader 
• Specialized hiking guides 
• Private pre-tour orientation meeting
• Accommodations as noted in the itinerary
• All meals as noted in itinerary
• All drinks with meals and clean drinking water at all times
• Certification of travel to Cuba under the U.S. Department of Treasury general license
• Small custom group size 
• All entrance fees to included events, activities and Parks
• All in-country ground transportation
• Gratuities and fees for presenters, luggage handling, and restaurant staff
• Cuba Visa (a $80-120 value)

Not Included: 

• Round-trip air to/from Cuba 
• Cuban Tour Guide and driver gratuities 
• Personal expenses such as souvenirs, gifts, additional drinks/entertainment, and incidentals

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Faq & more, can us citizens legally travel to cuba.

Yes, you can travel to Cuba as a US citizen! Although, the United States is the only country that restricts its citizens from traveling to Cuba for touristic reasons, however, the U.S. does allow travel to Cuba under one of 12 permitted travel categories. Of these categories, most of our travelers are traveling under either "Support for the Cuban People" or "Educational People-to-People" travel.  

For more information on Cuba travel entry requirements,  please see here . 

Custom or Private

You love this itinerary but want to change it a bit to make it perfect for you?  Or, are you wanting to simply make it private?  Either way, we can do it!

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On the summit

With our ascent of Pico Turquino (elevation 6,476′) on June 11, 2015, we became the first people to climb the tallest mountain in all 23 of the North American Countries (“country” defined as a U.N. Member Nation). We began our quest on the summit of 20,237′ Denali (Mt. McKinley) in Alaska in May 2010. After that, we made eight other climbing trips to other corners of the continent: three to Central America, three to the Caribbean, one to Yukon of Canada, and finally to Cuba. Reaching the summit of Cuba’s Pico Turquino marked the culmination of a challenging 5 year and 16 day quest.

The challenge associated with climbing Pico Turquino was not so much due to difficulty of the route (Denali in the US and Mt Logan in Canada both required about two weeks of highly demanding, Arctic high-altitude mountaineering, whereas Pico Turquino required only 10 hours), but rather the extent of the red tape. As we know, although some Cuba-related travel regulations have been recently relaxed, it is still not permissible for Americans to travel to Cuba for the purpose of tourism. But it is OK to travel as

On the streets of Havanna

part of a People-to-People cultural exchange. We worked with Paul Prewitt from Hot Cuba Travel, who put together a custom tour for us that included an ascent of Pico Turquino (a mountain that very few Americans ever climb), and also interwove a number of enriching cultural activities including homestays, speaking with locals, tours of Havana and Santiago, visits to churches, listening to local music, and sampling local cuisine. Paul, along with Cuban guides named Jesus and Juan, gave us an excellent sampling of life in Cuba. The trip was much more enriching than simply the ascent of one more mountain; although the trip was only six days long, it gave us a much closer glimpse of life in Cuba than we had even gotten before.

First, we flew from Miami to Havana, and our guide Jesus led us on an walking tour of the city. In the evening, we rode in a pristine 1957 Buick convertible along the coast. We spent the first night at the casa of a gentleman named Gustavo, who used to be a professional singer. The next day, we flew to Holguin via Cubana Airlines, and had a tour of the countryside by bus. After a self-paced tour of the city while running, we spent the night in Santiago at a casa. Next day, we drove to the Pico Turquino trailhead and set up the next day’s climb with the park service.

Pico Turquino viewed from the coast

The climb itself was challenging. We started hiking at about 4:15am with our guide Yordi (all climbs of Pico Turquino require you to hire one of five park-licensed guides) near the village of La Mula, situated on the southern shore of Cuba, about 3 hours east of Santiago. Joining us for the hike was our friend Jake. Our Dad, Keith Gilbertson, along with our guides Paul Prewitt and Juan stayed at the trailhead. To go for the gold, we started the hike by dipping our hands in the warm, Caribbean, so that we could traverse the entire elevation of the country during the hike. Although it was dark, the hike started out hot and humid, and we had to take frequent breaks for water. For three gringos from up north, the heat and humidity were stifling. The trail is quite steep; with a total ascent of about 6500 ft over 6.2 miles – nearly a 20% average grade – it rivals or exceeds most American trails in terms of steepness. But the staff of Turquino National Park do an excellent job of maintaining the popular trail. Although the area sees abundant rainfall, and there are quite a few muddy areas, there are frequent wooden steps which help to prevent erosion, and occasional hand rails in the particularly steep sections.

Starting before sunrise with feet in the ocean

Just after sunrise, we stopped for a break in a nice clearing with benches. Our guide Yordi reached in his pack and dug out three gigantic and delicious mangoes, which he handed to us. They were about twice the size and twice the tastiness of any mango we’d ever seen in the US! They were the perfect food – full of water and sugar. The mangos and our excitement propelled us onward, and we reached the summit around 10:15 am !

A large bronze bust of Jose Marti – the Abraham Lincoln of Cuba – adorns the center of the large clearing at the summit. Legend has it that the 56 kg bust was hauled up by two intrepid hikers in the 1950s. We paused for our traditional summit photos: one with our arms raised, one with both of us jumping, and one juggling rocks. The trees surrounding the summit were a little too high to afford a view, but we had caught several glimpses of the turquoise Caribbean during the ascent. (Pico Turquino was aptly named for “ turquesa ” – the Spanish word for “turquoise” in reference to the color of the Caribbean.)

Matthew nearing the summit

We basked in the warm summit sunshine for about an hour before heading down. During the descent, we realized just how far we had climbed that day. We triumphantly reached the trailhead at about 2:15pm , for a round-trip time of 10 hours. We jumped in a natural freshwater pool nearby to cool off and celebrate.

We will keep working on country high points. There are 195 countries in the world, and together we have climbed the highest point in 78 of them. Nobody has ever climbed all of them. So we still have 117 to go.

The importance of the cultural exchange :

Eric on the descent

The cultural exchange nature of the trip was essential and definitely two-way. All of the Cubans we talked to expressed happiness in the recent improvements in American-Cuban relations, and hopefulness that things would continue to improve. We were surprised to see many American flags; we saw flags waving from cars, American flag bumper stickers, and even clothing patterned with Old Glory. People often asked where we were from, usually asking if we were from Canada or Germany. When we told people that we were from Los Estados Unidos, everyone was universally surprised and excited. We got the sense that they don’t see many Americans. We asked many of them if they had ever been to the USA, and they all said that they hadn’t, but would really like to. “Hopefully in a few years,” they said. They like the direction that things are moving, but “it’s still slow,” one man said in English. “It’s like a turtle – one step forward, one step back.” I think that through the cultural exchange, we Americans can act as ambassadors, giving Cubans a favorable impression of America. Meanwhile, we gained an excellent and positive impression of Cuba from meeting with the locals. We can only hope that the turtle continues its steady pace forwards on the way better relations.

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Cuba's Summit: Hiking Pico Turquino - Hiking Tour

• 5 Highlights in 8 Days: Holguín, Bayamo, Nationalpark Turquino, Sierra Maestra, Santiago de Cuba
• 5 nights in hotels with a 2-3* standard, 2 nights in huts/tents
• 7x breakfast, 4x lunch, 5x dinner
• qualified English-speaking guide
• many included activities, e.g. city tours in Bayamo and Santiago de Cuba, guided hikes in the Nationalpark Turquino, incl. Cuba's highest mountain etc.
• 2-9h hikes (see itinerary)
• from $ 1,510 CAD p.p. with 2 persons

Go to Dates & Prices

Route of the hiking tour "Cuba's Summit: Hiking Pico Turqino"

These highlights are waiting for you on this tour

• Located in the Sierra Maestra Mountain Range
• Pico Turquino - Cuba's Highest Mountain
• Beautiful Rivers and Springs

• Mountain Range in Eastern Cuba
• Important National Parks
• Comandancia de la Plata

• Unofficial capital of Cuba
• City of Rhythm
• Impressive El Morro fortress

Day 1: Arrival in Holguin

Day 2: Holguin - Turquino National Park ✪

Day 3: Turquino National Park ✪

Day 4: Turquino National Park ✪

Day 5: Sierra Maestra ✪

Day 6: sierra maestra - santiago de cuba ✪.

Day 7: Santiago de Cuba - Holguin ✪

Day 8: departure.

• 5 nights in hotels, 2 nights in huts or tents
• City tour in Bayamo and Santiago de Cuba
• Hiking tours in Nationalpark Pico Turquino
• All transfers during the tour in air-conditioned vehicles
• Qualified English-speaking tour guide

Not Included

• International flights to/from Cuba
• Transfers in/out: booking available on request
• Cuba Entry Card (tourist visa): booking available on request
• Optional offers/activities and services
• Travel Insurance
• Tips and gratuities
• Sleeping Bag - essential for camping nights

Important Information

• Information about Visa and vaccination requirements and general information about country and people of Cuba you can find here.
• Information about our hiking tours, for example Nationalparks and equipment of accommodations you can find here.
• If you want to include a domestic flight, we can also help you with the booking.

Prices and Dates for the hiking tour "Pico Turquino"

Optional extras:.

• Cuba Entry Card (tourist visa): $ 30 CAD
• Transfer IN/OUT optional:
• Holguin Airport - Holguin Hotel
• ONE WAY Price per transfer: $ 40 CAD (1-3pax), $ 52 CAD (4-6)

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• Activity Tours
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12+ Best Things To Do in Holguin, Cuba

If you’ve never heard much about Holguin, Cuba , you’re probably not alone. While the province of Holguin is one of Cuba’s largest provinces and the capital city of Holguin is the fourth-largest city in Cuba , it doesn’t have nearly the name recognition with travelers of destinations like Varadero or Trinidad. However, it’s truly one of Cuba’s most precious hidden gems.

As locals, we’ve had the pleasure of getting to know the province and capital city of Holguin inside out – José’s entire extended family is from Holguin, after all! This is our ultimate list of things to do in Holguin, including the very best ways to spend a few hours in the capital city of Holguin and the best things to do around the province that you won’t want to miss.

This post contains affiliate links that may reward me monetarily or otherwise when you use them to make qualifying purchases – at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read our  disclosure policy .

Best Things To Do in Holguin

Christopher Columbus wrote this in his diaries when he first laid eyes on Holguin, Cuba : “This is the most beautiful land that human eyes have ever seen.” It doesn’t take long for most travelers to Holguin to see why this is a pretty fair assessment of this gorgeous corner of Cuba.

Looking for a quick few things to do in Holguin that will fill your itinerary and give you the most incredible experience in this stunning part of Cuba? These are our top recommendations for the best things to do in both the city and province of Holguin:

• Visit the Beaches of Holguin
• Hike to the Salto de Guayabo
• Climb the Loma de la Cruz

Of course, visiting the beaches in Holguin is at the top of our list – these divine shores at Guardalavaca and beyond are some of the best beaches in Cuba , and home to some of the country’s most impressive resorts .

However, you won’t want to skip the city of Holguin’s historic center and stunning Loma de la Cruz viewpoint. Similarly, don’t miss the chance to explore the rich, tropical landscapes across the province and hide stunning waterfalls, little-trodden hiking trails, and endemic flora and fauna.

Cuba Travel 101

• Currency in Cuba: A Local’s Guide for Travelers
• How to Get Wifi in Cuba [Updated!]
• Is Cuba Safe? Updated Cuba Safety Guide
• Ultimate Cuba Travel Guide – A Local’s Advice for Travelers

Things To Do in Holguin

1. visit holguin’s most beautiful beaches.

Despite Holguin’s lack of name recognition, it’s actually one of the areas of Cuba that attracts the most international visitors. Why? It boasts what are hands-down some of the most stunning beaches in all of Cuba, if not the entire Caribbean. You can’t visit Holguin properly without stopping at one of these shores.

Playa Pesquero and Playa Esmeralda are some of the most gorgeous beaches in Holguin, both postcard-perfect white sand shores rimmed with resorts , where visitors flock from around the world to enjoy a relaxing beach vacation. Spending even a day or two at one of these beaches will be an unforgettable experience.

Alternatively, head to Guardalavaca for a true beach town experience, complete with smaller and more affordable casa particular accommodations and plenty of local places to eat and drink. The sands here are just as legendary.

Cuban Beach Guides

• 12 Best Beaches in Cuba
• Cayo Largo del Sur: Home to Cuba’s Nicest Beaches
• Cayo Coco: A Local’s Guide for Travelers

2. Hike to the Salto de Guayabo

Hidden within the lush forests of Holguin’s rich La Mensura-Pilotos Natural Park is Salto de Guayabo, considered one of Cuba’s highest and most impressive waterfalls. Surrounded by jungle and with a swimming hole at the bottom for refreshing dips, it’s a beautiful destination that makes for one of the best things to do in Holguin.

The hike to reach Salto de Guayabo from the parking area is relatively easy – less than 0.75 of a mile (1.2 km) on a mostly flat surface – making it a doable excursion for most visitors. Small group excursions and private tours depart from Holguin’s capital city and the resort areas of Guardalavaca and are a great day trip option for travelers.

3. Climb the Loma de la Cruz

Perched high above the city of Holguin – 458 steps above the city, to be exact – the Loma de la Cruz viewpoint is indisputably the most beautiful viewpoint over the city and surrounding countryside. Conquering the ascent’s steps makes the view feel well-earned, though it’s now possible to reach the top by taxi as well.

Even during the cooler months of Cuba’s “winter,” the hike becomes prohibitively hot during the afternoon hours when the sun is hottest. Add it to your itinerary first thing in the day for the most enjoyable experience. A small restaurant and cafe at the top makes for the perfect respite after the hike.

Read More: Holguin, Cuba: Ultimate Traveler’s Guide

Travel Insurance

Cuba requires that all travelers have proof of a comprehensive travel insurance policy in order to enter the country. Check out our guide to travel insurance for Cuba for more details. We recommend these brands for Cuba travel insurance:

• Visitors Coverage : Coverage for Cuba travel available to citizens of all countries, though not currently available to residents of New York and Maryland in the United States.
• Insubuy : Coverage for Cuba travel available to citizens of all countries and states of the United States.

4. Explore Holguin’s Old Town

A small but charming old town makes the heart of Holguin worth a few hours of time on your Cuba itinerary before you race off to the region’s beaches. While it may not be as extensive and grand as Old Havana or historic Trinidad , its collection of historic churches, grand government buildings, and pretty plazas – with barely a tourist in sight – makes a visit a unique and memorable experience.

The city is most well known for its series of historic plazas, which run north-south along the main thoroughfare of Calle Maceo, making it an easy route for a self-guided walking tour. Start at the smaller Parque Jose Martí with its wall of revolutionary heroes before heading north to Parque de las Flores, the most important Parque Calixto Garcia.

Cut across Parque Calixto Garcia from Maceo to the pedestrian-only Bulevar for a nice stroll several blocks until you reach Parque San José with its impressive cathedral – it’s one of the must-visit areas of town.

5. Take a Day Trip to Gibara

The seaside village of Gibara, located on Holguin’s stunning northwestern coastline, is better known as La Villa Blanca – the White Village – for its charm and history. There’s some debate about whether it was the Bay of Gibara or the nearby Bay of Bariay that inspired Christopher Columbus’ famous words about the incomparable beauty of Cuba. Regardless, travelers will find the stunning area of Gibara a gem.

Today, visitors can explore the town’s historic fort and charming old town and take in gorgeous ocean views from its scenic viewpoint. Gibara is also famous for its international film festival, which draws directors, actors, and cinephiles from across Cuba and the rest of Latin America every year.

Just over an hour from Guardalavaca and even closer to the Holguin resorts located on Playa Blanca, it’s a perfect – and popular – day trip for those looking to escape the resort.

Guides to Exploring Eastern Cuba

• Santiago de Cuba: Ultimate Travel Guide
• Baracoa, Cuba: Ultimate Travel Guide

6. Visit the Casa de la Trova

Holguin’s Parque Calixto Garcia is home to the Casa de la Trova, a live music venue that is one of the best places to visit in Holguin for a night out. Salsa, son, and other rhythms spill from the venue and attract a crowd, and beer and cocktails keep them around for a good time.

While the real party doesn’t tend to get started until a little later, it’s a fun place to enjoy after dinner while experiencing some of Cuba’s classic sounds. There’s a small entrance fee – just a few pesos as of the last time we visited – but it’s well worth it for the good time.

7. Take a Free Walking Tour of Holguin

Is there anything better than getting something for free? Civitatis offers free walking tours of Holguin that every visitor should sign up for; they’re one of the best things to do in Holguin to get to know the city from the eyes of a local.

No matter where you’re headed on the island, make sure to check out Civitatis for free walking tours of most cities in Cuba . Here are some of the most popular free walking tours in Cuba:

• Free Walking Tour of Old Havana
• Free Walking Tour of Viñales, Cuba
• Free Walking Tour of Trinidad, Cuba
• Free Walking Tour of Cienfuegos, Cuba

8. Stay in a Casa Particular

The province of Holguin is home to some of Cuba’s best all inclusive resorts , from new, modern resorts hidden away on the remote Ramón de Antilla peninsula to long-time favorites in the beach town of Guardalavaca.

However, one of the best ways to experience the heart of Holguin’s capital is by staying in one of the city’s many casa particular guest houses. These are the best casa particular guest houses in Holguin :

• Villa La Roca ($)
• Hostal Refugio de Reyes ($)
• Hostal La Casona ($ – $$)

Choosing to stay in one of the many casa particular guest houses in Holguin will offer so much more closeness to the real, local experience than you could ever find at one of Holguin’s resorts . If you can, we recommend choosing to stay in a casa particular at least one night of your stay in Cuba!

Cuba Accommodation Guides

• Best Resorts in Cuba: Ultimate Cuba Resort Guide
• 15 Best All Inclusive Resorts in Cuba
• 15 Best Hotels in Cuba

9. Start a Trek to Pico Turquino

Venture outside Holguin and embark on the trek to the summit of Cuba’s highest mountain peek: Pico Turquino. Located in the Sierra Maestra mountain range along Cuba’s southern coast, this gorgeous mountain offers one of the best hikes in Cuba and even offers ocean views.

Pico Turquino can be approached via Santiago de Cuba on the eastern side of the park or via Holguin to its north.

There’s a major benefit to starting the trek to Pico Turquino via Holguin: entering the northern side of the park allows visitors to stop at Comandancia de la Plata on their way to the summit. This hidden spot in the mountains was once the jungle camp of Fidel Castro and his band of revolutionaries; visitors today can still visit their field hospital, radio station, and makeshift cabins in what is an incredible way to feel Cuba’s history first hand.

Read More: 5 Best Places for Hiking in Cuba

Travel Essential

Don’t think about traveling to Cuba without a good  VPN (Virtual Private Network) . Using a VPN while connecting to the internet is an easy way to keep your personal information safe from hackers and trackers.  We’ve used  NordVPN  for years and couldn’t recommend it more – it’s a must for safety online, especially in Cuba. 

10. Visit Cayo Saetia

You’ll have no problem finding stunning beaches in Holguin – it’s home to some of the best beaches in Cuba , after all! – but you’ll be hard-pressed to find more beautiful beaches than those in Cayo Saetia.

Located on the far eastern side of the province, Cayo Saetia is a tiny cay set just off the coast, home to beautiful and mostly untouched beaches, plus much more. The island is also a unique wildlife refuge where visitors can spot everything from zebras and antelope to water buffalo, boar, and deer. Why? This formerly private government game reserve was once the holiday destination of Fidel Castro and family.

Visit for a bonafide wildlife photographic safari, or join one of the catamaran rides around the island’s pristine coastline to discover white sand beaches and hidden snorkeling spots – it’s one of the best things to do in Holguin.

11. Visit Cuba’s Eastern National Parks

Holguin is home to some of Cuba’s most revered natural areas and parks, making it an important area for adventurous travelers looking for everything from renowned hiking excursions to wildlife encounters. These are the region’s two national parks, which are just a few of the natural preserves worth a visit in the area:

Sierra Cristal National Park

The original national park in Cuba was established almost 100 years ago and is still one of the best places to visit in Cuba for hiking, nature, and incredible views. The park is home to the Sierra Cristal, the tallest mountain range in Cuba after the legendary Sierra Maestra range in southeastern Cuba, as well as numerous hiking trails, hidden waterfalls, and more.

You can find organized day trips to Sierra Cristal National Park from the resort area in Guardalavaca and the center of the city of Holguin.

La Mensura-Pilotos National Park

La Mensura-Pilotos National Park is best known as home to the beautiful Salto de Guayabo waterfall, but it’s also a haven for naturalists who know it to be home to countless endemic species and some of Cuba’s richest biodiversity. Nearby Birán is home to the ancestral lands of the Castro family.

12. Visit El Chorro de Maita

Holguin has long been known as one of the most important areas of Cuba to learn about the history of the indigenous Taino people who once inhabited the island before their near-total extermination by the Spanish. There are few places in Cuba as important to this history as El Chorro de Maita.

El Chorro de Maita is home to an important archeological site where structures, artifacts, and an indigenous burial ground have been unearthed. Across the main road from the site, a small museum and “Aldea Taina” village reconstruct important elements of history and host reenactments of Taino dances and ceremonies for visitors.

Located just twenty minutes from Guardalavaca and the most famous beach resorts in the area , El Chorro de Maita is a quick and popular half-day excursion for resort-goers looking to explore a bit of the area and escape the resort for a bit. Check with resort staff about organized half-day excursions, though taxi transportation is another affordable way to visit this nearby site.

Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Home to Havana and Explorers Away. She is a serial expat and traveler, having visited 40+ countries and counting. Carley has written for publications like Travel + Leisure, MSN, Associated Press, Weather Channel, Wealth of Geeks, and more. Find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.

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• Moscow Tours

Our 20 Best Moscow Tours of 2022

Join us on an unforgettable tour to Moscow, the capital of Russia. Imagine visiting Red Square, St. Basil’s the Kremlin and more. Moscow is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and one of Russia’s most historical. All of our tours to Moscow are fully customizable and can be adjusted to fit any budget. Our most popular tours are listed below. Please click on the 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.

Classic Moscow

This is our most popular Moscow tour that includes all the most prominent sights. You will become acquainted with ancient Russia in the Kremlin, admire Russian art in the Tretyakov Gallery, listen to street musicians as you stroll along the Old Arbat street, and learn about Soviet times on the Moscow Metro tour.

Accommodation

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A Week in Moscow

This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing.

Weekend in Moscow

This tour is a great way to get acquainted with the capital of Russia if you are short of time. You will see all the main attractions of the city, the most important of which is the Kremlin - the heart of Russia. The tour starts on Friday and can be combined with a business trip.

Group Tour Moscow Break by Intourist

Russia's capital has so much to offer, from the Kremlin and the Metro to the Old Arbat street and the Tretyakov Gallery. Besides these sites, you will also visit a fascinating country estate which today is quite off the beaten path, Gorky Estate, where the Soviet leader Lenin spent the last months of his life.

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Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Diamond Fund Tour

The State Museum of Lev Tolstoy Tour

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...

Novodevichy Convent Tour with transport

Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure...

City Tour with Visit to St. Basils & Red Sq. with transport

Panoramic City Tour. This Moscow tour is a great start to your trip and the best way to get acquainted with many of the city’s major highlights. Our professional guide will...

City Tour of Moscow

Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous...

Moscow Metro walking tour

Kremlin, Red Square and Cathedrals Tour

KGB Tour with transport

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to...

Soviet and Post-Soviet Moscow Tour

The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened...

Tretyakov State Gallery Tour

This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and...

Jewish Heritage of Moscow Tour

This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion only)

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

Tours to Moscow

Our Moscow tours are land only meaning that you arrange your own air travel to Russia and our expert staff meets you at the airport and handles everything else from there. Our online Airline Ticket booking system offers some of the most competitive rates to Russia available on the web so if you need tickets, please visit our Russian air ticket center . Rest assured that you will be taken great care of on one of our Moscow tours. Express to Russia has a fully staffed office in Moscow that will help to make your visit fun, informative and unforgettable. Please remember that of all these tours are private and can be adjusted to your taste. You can add, replace or skip some sights; you can add more days to the package or cut the tour short. Our specialists will be glad to help you create the tour of your dreams!

Moscow, a City Like No Other

Moscow is Russia’s largest city with a population of between 12 and 13 million. It is also Europe’s largest city and when you visit Moscow, you can feel it. The layout and architecture of the city is eclectic, ranging from crooked, ancient streets and alleyways to wide, bustling boulevards, from medieval churches to Stalin skyscrapers and to modern, glass buildings towering over everything and of course in the center of it all is the Kremlin and the magnificent Red Square. Moscow is also home to a fantastic, efficient and very beautiful metro system – each station having its own special design. In fact, Express to Russia’s Moscow metro tours and excursions are some of our most popular attractions that we offer. On our Moscow tours, you will see this and more.

Moscow Tours centering on Russian History

Moscow has a long and interesting history and has been the capital of Russia in many of its different iterations – capital of the Grand Duchy of Moscow , the Russian Empire and of course the Soviet Union (who could ever forget the Soviet Union?). Moscow, was founded in the 12th century by Prince Yuri Dolgaruki (Yuri of the long arms – he really did have long arms!). From that time on, it was home to the Russian Tsars until Peter the Great moved the capital to St. Petersburg in 1703. The city has survived invasions and sieges from the Mongols, the Tartars, the Poles, Lithuanians and Napoleon but has always persevered. Our Moscow tours will enlighten you on this great history and give you insights into Muscovites and their unique culture. Our Moscow tours show you what the city is like today but also brings to life the past. Moscow never seems to sleep and is bursting with energy. A Moscow tour with Express to Russia is truly the best way of getting to know Russia’s largest and most vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

What is the best time to visit moscow.

Any time of year is fine depending on what you plan to do. Summertime is pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city and its vibrant atmosphere, but Moscow will be much busier and accommodation is more expensive. Winter can be quite cold but beautiful nonetheless, and this is unproblematic if you intend to spend most of your trip in museums and galleries. There are also various festivals and events organised throughout the year. For more information about the best time to visit, read our guide

How many days are enough in Moscow?

If you plan your itinerary strategically and aren’t averse to a packed schedule, you can cover Moscow’s main sights over a long weekend. Most popular attractions are in the city centre, and the Moscow Metro allows you to cover much ground in a small amount of time. Ensure that your accommodation is fairly central and book tickets in advance, so that you can make the most of your days. For an informative and well-organised day out, check out our Moscow day tours with options to suit all interests.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

As Russia’s capital city, tourists are well accommodated in Moscow. There should be English-speaking staff in restaurants, bars, hotels, shops and attractions in tourist hotspots, and there are also English-speaking tourist police. Transport services have English translations on their maps and English announcements via intercom; alternatively, order taxis from the Yandex Taxi app (Russian Uber), though it’s unlikely that your taxi driver will speak English. If you get stuck and cannot communicate, it’s fine to use Google Translate.

Is it safe to travel to Moscow?

It is no less safe to travel to Moscow than to any European city if you exercise common sense and look after your belongings. As with every city some regions can be more unsavoury than others, but no tourist attractions are located there. The traffic in Moscow is notorious, so exercise caution when crossing roads. Do not take unlicensed taxis; book in advance or take public transport, which is widespread and perfectly safe. If you encounter any problems, look for the special tourist police who can help you. For more information, read our guide about staying safe in Russia .

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

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It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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