odyssey travel design

Life’s most inspiring experiences rarely happen in your living room

“As night crept in, the tour buses departed, and our group was alone in this incredible place. I have never seen so many stars, and in their light I could see joy radiating on the faces of my new-found friends.” Special experiences like these are at the heart of every Odysseys Unlimited tour and why so many guests choose to travel with us again and again.

America's Leader in Small Group Travel

Delivering high quality and outstanding value, a tradition of excellence.

Since 1989, we've created custom-designed tours for more than 100 of America's most prestigious non-profit organizations. Now we've put our expertise to work on a wider scale by making our tours available to all travelers, while continuing to serve our client institutions.

Small Groups of Just 12 to 24 Guests, Carefully Designed Itineraries, and an Appropriate Pace of Travel

Each of our tours is custom-designed specifically for small groups, with a balanced mix of traveling, sightseeing, cultural encounters, and free time. Most important, we limit our tour membership to just 12 to 24 guests, both for the freedom, flexibility, and camaraderie that small groups engender, and also so guests may enjoy a more personal and authentic travel experience. We show you the highlights -- and the unexpected. And we generally spend at least two nights in most places, and sometimes as many as four, so you won't be run ragged changing hotels every day.

A Diverse Selection of Tours

We offer a diverse array of tours throughout the world, ranging in length from 10 to 22 days: Europe on and off the beaten path; barge and private yacht cruises; adventures in Africa and the Middle East; discoveries in Asia and the Far East; far-reaching journeys to the Americas, Australia, and the South Pacific — all with unique features available only to small groups.

Extensive Included Sightseeing — and No Hidden Costs

Our tours include a great deal of thoughtful and engaging sightseeing and activities, from museum tours, cooking classes, and scenic excursions to home visits, musical performances, and wine tastings. In major cities you'll usually have time to explore on your own after a guided city tour. And traveling from one destination to another isn't always just a transfer, it's an added opportunity to visit a special village, historic site, or ancient ruin.

Hotels: Excellent Quality and Location

Since accommodations comprise an important aspect of your trip, we've gone to great lengths to select hotels that meet our standards of high quality, convenient location, and excellent service. From superb hotels in major cities to unique or historic lodgings too small for conventional tour groups of 40 or more, these hotels promise to enhance your enjoyment and comfort throughout your trip.

Our Tour Directors Make the Difference

We believe that personal attention is key to an outstanding travel experience, so we've ensured that it's a hallmark of all Odysseys Unlimited tours. Our professional Tour Directors rank among the best in the business; their love of travel is surpassed only by their desire to share their enthusiasm and knowledge with others. And a small group means your Tour Director will have more time to spend with you and more time to share the personal insights that can add so much to your experience. This helps make your trip genuinely special -- and different from conventional tours.

Major Airline Service

We use scheduled airline service on major commercial airlines worldwide. Business Class and Premium Economy upgrades on select international flights are available on request. We also offer low-cost domestic connecting flights to your gateway city.

Fully Refundable Deposits

A deposit of just $475 confirms your reservation, which you can make with a personal check or major credit card. Best of all, your deposit is fully refundable up to 95 days before departure.

Guaranteed Tour Prices

All tour prices are fully guaranteed through December 31, 2024.

Statement of Confidentiality: This information is for the sole use of Odysseys Unlimited. It will not be rented, sold, or otherwise given to any other business or entity for any other purposes.

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THE DIFFERENCE IS NIGHT AND DAY!

Odyssey Travel works with other organizations to provide the best possible travel experience around the world. We believe travel is one of life's greatest values, perhaps the ultimate investment, because the return is priceless. It is our mission to provide clients with exceptional travel experiences, by offering them incomparable A-level service with only their desires and requirements in mind.

Royal Caribbean

Vacation time is precious - make every moment memorable. Royal Caribbean® takes you to more unforgettable shores, from bucket list-worthy spots to game-changing private destinations. All on the best cruise ships in the world.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises appeals to discerning, sophisticated travelers in search of world-class cuisine, unparalleled personal service, a luxurious onboard ambiance and enriching destination experiences.

Delivering outstanding personal service, uncompromising standards for quality, and a steadfast commitment to making the most of your vacation time… a brand promise we made back in 1925, and haven’t deviated from since.

Partnered with over 1,800 of the world’s best companies, Virtuoso is the leading global network of agencies specializing in luxury and experiential travel, with more than 20,000 advisors.

Crystal Cruise

Across the world's great oceans, along the grand rivers of Europe and into iconic yachting harbors and remote destinations by expedition, we are dedicated to creating the best vacation for each guest.

Chilko Experience

An exclusive estate is hidden in the breath-taking Coastal mountains of British Columbia in the middle of the Chilcotin Plateau.

Abercrombie & Kent

Luxury Tailor Made Travel allows you to experience A&K’s hallmark blend of insider access and style in more than 100 countries around the world, on an itinerary created for you and your family or friends.

Viking Cruises

With operational headquarters in Basel, Switzerland, Viking provides destination-focused itineraries designed for experienced travelers who have an interest in geography, culture and history. 

Disney Cruise Line

Enchanting entertainment, outstanding dining options, spacious staterooms, fun-filled pools and waterslides plus our very own private island on select itineraries are yours to enjoy on a Disney cruise.

Celebrity X cruises

With Celebrity Cruises you’ll visit unforgettable destinations, receive outstanding service and taste culinary excellence, all while on board ships with stunning designs and luxurious accommodations.

Holland America Line

 The premium cruise line dedicated to explorers, foodies and music lovers who want to pursue these passions on perfectly sized, refreshingly uncrowded ships, filled with one-of-a-kind experiences.  Come Savor the Journey.

Virgin Voyages

Caribbean or Mediterranean? Sun-filled mornings or late nights under the stars? Gastronomic delights or beautiful sights? The choice is yours, Sailor. Ready to Set Sail The Virgin Way and see how Richard Branson does cruises?

Regent Seven Seas Cruises is the world's most inclusive luxury experience with a five-ship fleet that visits more than 450 destinations around the world.

Silversea’s small luxury ships are designed for those who delight in the thrill of discovery while indulging mind and body in the most lavish surroundings imaginable.

Princess Cruises

Choosing a cruise line that allows you to experience the most at every stop along the way is priority one. Discover what makes each port unique through the insights of local experts and crew members who sail with us to over 380 destinations.

With 90 years in the travel industry and a longstanding reputation as the leader in group travel, the Globus family of brands has a vacation for everyone.

Royal Mansour

The Royal Mansour can be counted among-st the few establishments in the world that defy hotel excellence. Take a step into the secret and sumptuous history of one of the most beautiful hotels in the world.

Choosing Collette comes with benefits that take your guided travel experience to another level. Our inclusive tours provide you more value for your money and more of what makes travel special.

Contact our Travel Advisors to craft your dream vacation.

800-333-8113 

Your dream journey starts here...​

Design your Odyssey

Not sure what you are looking for?  Fill out our questionnaire so that we can get to know you and find the perfect African experience designed just for you!

A life-enriching journey and adventure...

We’re here to design your perfect escape. There needs to be a reason to leave one place and arrive at the other, a reason to stay, a reason to continue unto the next and, finally, a reason to return home. That’s where we come in. To interpret the ‘why’ and to find that reason. Why to travel, why to go to certain places, and others not, why a certain experience is worth all the traveling in the world…

We’re here to design your perfect escape. There needs to be a reason to leave one’s place and arrive at the other, a reason to stay, a reason to continue unto the next and, finally, a reason to return home. That’s where we come in. To interpret the ‘why’ - why to travel, why to go to certain places, why a certain experience is worth all the travelling in the world…

...an intellectual and spiritual quest

...and we answer these questions in the form of an unforgettable Odyssey. We design your trips in the hope that your Odyssey gives you a sense of enlightenment and deep happiness, that your senses be enthralled, that you laugh until your sides hurt. Most of all, we want your journeys to showcase the incredible planet we call home. Below are some of our favourite experiences!

"The world's finest hospitality and cuisine can be found in the wilds of Africa"

"At the mere evocation of East Africa, romantic ideals of great plains, a huge blazing orb descending into the night, hordes of wildlife come to mind"

"A constant natural marvel , each year born again, that has, to a large extent, become one of the greatest spectacles on Earth"

"Using decades of experience and passion, we have designed exclusive and professionally-guided creative escapes"

"Perfect combinations that mix beach and bush, safari living and early wake-up calls, golden-hour game viewing and relaxing laid back beach escapes"

"What is often overlooked, though, are the less trodden paths where more secretive, more elusive, more rare and certainly more rewarding-to-find animals are found"

"Canoe safaris, Mokoro excursions in the famous Okavango Delta, exclusive sunrise and sunset boat cruises, unique wildlife and birdlife"

"What if we could get even closer to nature, to actually feel it. Rubbing your hands down the bark of a passing tree, the sand filling your shoes..."

"Zambia is a place close to our hearts, a place we call home. Home to the extraordinary, the rare, the magnificent and the unimaginably beautiful"

"Some of our favourite places to encounter Africa's beautiful and impressive flagship species"

"High ridges, and impressive landscapes, fill the mind with wonder and endless possibilities"

"Tender gestures, intriguing communication techniques, incredible displays of intelligence , hilarious antics...meet your closest relatives"

"We believe there is still room for places where few tourists venture - even within countries that seem to hold no more secrets"

"The African continent is filled with immeasurable beauty and ancient landscapes, the results of millions of years of morphing landscapes...3

Fascinating creatures, sometimes ghostlike, sometimes dragonlike, sometimes vibrant and colourful, inhabit the exceptional Congo Basin

"Home to over 3000 tribes, the African continent is filled with colourful tribes and cultures ever more diverse"

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Find daily updates from our team members in the field or guest reviews on our social media pages. Everything from trip reports, blogs, amazing encounters, valuable site information and exciting news.

Articles: Architecture

Architecture

Collection of articles relevant to visiting key sites of Architectural significance on a tour. Small group escorted educational tours for couples and solo travelers . Sign up to the newsletter today to stay in touch.

Articles about Architecture and design

Arcades of Melbourne, Victoria

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Continental Crossroads: Discover Morocco

Morrocco, ancient civilisation, blue city, white city, Berbers, The Romans , Portugese the history rolls on for this country in North Africa. Join a small group vacation package that tours Morocco. A tour of Morocco for mature and senior travellers , couples or singles over the course of the itinerary, the history, culture and landscape are all explored, from Fez to Marrakech or the Cave of Hercules.

Designing Paris: The Definitive Guide for Travellers

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England's Liverpool: Port City, Architecture Marvel

Article for educational small group tours about the Port City of Liverpool. An Architecture Marvel from Georgian times , built on trade, some good, some horrific. Read and learn more before joining a tour for senior couples and mature solo travellers interested in culture, learning and the arts.

Exploring Newcastle upon Tyne: The Definitive guide for Travellers

Newcastle upon Tyne is discussed in this article for senior couples and mature solo travellers on an educational small group tour . Learn about this English city and the Romans , Vikings, Middle ages and Victoria and the Industrial revolution.

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During the Islamic period of Iran, glazed bricks were used to create breathtaking and mesmerising wall and ceiling designs in mosques. Click through to read more.

London's Victorian Architecture: The Definitive Guide for Travellers

Small group educational tours for senior couples and mature solo travelers with History tours including those examining the Industrial revolution , Victorian Britain the Gilbert and Sullivan era via the D'Oyle Carte family and the cities such as Glasgow, Liverpool and Manchester.

New York City: Architecture Styles Through the Ages

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Scandinavian Design Small Group Tour: Denmark, Sweden and Finland

Visiting Denmark, Finland

Denmark , Sweden and Finland realised that the only way to remain competitive on the world stage was through the value of superior design . Travelling with like-minded people on our small group tour you will explore the cities and towns where those high quality products, appreciated around the world, are created including hygge.

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About Wizards of Odysseys

Welcome to Wizard of Odysseys LLC! We are proud to be a boutique vacation travel design and management company that has been in business for 15+ years! We find joy in assisting our clients as they choose their next travel experience through personalized planning, design, and management of their journeys.

Much like a other trusted personal advisors across differing industries such as doctors, lawyers, financial planners or hairdressers, Wizard of Odysseys seeks to create long-standing relationships with our clients based on their travel experiences and a desire to excel in creating memorable vacations together for many years to come.

As a busy professional, wife and mother, vacation planning became another job for Pat and others she knew. Traveling became an annual beach vacation because it was easy to plan. Given the opportunity to change course, Pat opened Wizard of Odysseys LLC to assist busy professionals in planning the vacations that required more research and time than was available in their busy lives. Wizard of Odysseys LLC now has clients who have traveled to all 7 continents, sailed most major oceans and travel from every couple of years to multiple times a year. Pat takes pride in long standing client relationships, the unique experiences she creates and her focus on customer service.

Pat Ogle-Collins

Curiosity about the world and a desire to assist others in seeing the world she continues to explore led Pat to establish Wizard of Odysseys LLC in 2004.

Starting with annual family vacations in RVs and tents, Pat continued to expand her journeys through Girl Scouts and then as an exchange student to New Zealand while in high school. Following college where she majored in International Relations, she moved to Germany allowing her to explore Europe and Africa.

BROWSE JOURNIES

Meet our team who will help you customize your journey and provide you with unique holiday experiences in Greece.

Fokion Drosos

CO-FOUNDER & CEO

Being an entrepreneur in texture and fabric industry he had the opportunity to travel and trade extensively around the globe for many years. Finally, Fokion co-founded My Odyssey Travel in 2012 with the vision to provide the unseen elements of Greece to the upscale and sophisticated international travelers. He and his team constantly select, curate, preserve and present the best Greece has to offer.

Daphne Skotida

SENIOR TRAVEL MANAGER

Known for her meticulous attention to detail and a genuine love for cultural immersion, Daphne is not just a travel designer but a true enthusiast who believes that every trip is an opportunity for discovery and enrichment. Whether it's navigating the logistics of a complex itinerary or curating bespoke travel packages, Daphne's expertise shines through, making her an indispensable force in the world of travel management.

Stella Chiangprom

SALES & MARKETING MANAGER

Stella has studied Tourism Management and Hospitality at the University of West Attica. She loves to search for new destinations and follow up on the latest industry trends, which makes her an enthusiastic designer of unique travels for demanding clientele. Stella has orchestrated sales and marketing actions that inspire adventure and promote unforgettable travel experiences in Greece.

Katia Iordanidou

TRAVEL DESIGNER

Her passion for discoveries and her curious nature set her on the path of travel from a very early age. Since 2017, Katia has been a specialized Travel Designer, crafting tailor-made trips in Greece for both English and French-speaking travelers who, like herself, yearn for travel that transcends the ordinary. She's always going that extra mile to satisfy even the most demanding travelers.

Shi Yang- Aggeliki

SHANGHAI OFFICE MANAGER

Aggeliki, with studies in Greek language and literature in Shanghai and Athens, started her career from shipping industry, but found her passion for travel in My Odyssey in 2014. Now she’s Shanghai office manager and responsible for Marketing and Sales for Chinese market.

Georgia Gkaltemi

FINANCIAL ADMINISTRATOR

Georgia studied Management and Economics of Tourism. She has organized medical congresses in Greece and abroad while working for a pharmaceutical company. Since May 2018, she has been My Odyssey's financial controller.

Nefeli Charalampopoulou

ASSISTANT TRAVEL DESIGNER

Enthusiastic and dedicated university student pursuing a degree in Economics at the Athens University of Economics and Business, Nefeli is eager to apply theoretical knowledge through internships with a passion for curating unforgettable journeys and creating seamless and memorable experiences for clients. She is fluent in English and French and volunteered in the Athens Marathon 2022.

Danae Melistas

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

With social media being at the forefront of the digital world we live in, Danae decided to shift her focus from working as a luxury travel designer for Greek and US agencies to creating relevant and appealing content for companies offering high-end services in the tourism field

Do you need help to design your perfect journey to Greece?

Our travel experts can help you.

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

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

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

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

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

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

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

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

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

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

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

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

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

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

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Conclusion and Recommendations

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

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

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

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

MindTheTravel

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

Mariella Blago

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

Thanks, Mariella!

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

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

Tara Pittman

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

Adriana Lopez

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

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

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

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

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

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

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

DANA GUTKOWSKI

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

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

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

Reesa Lewandowski

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

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

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

Chelsea Pearl

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

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

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

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

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Melrose Plaza searching for artist to design community mural in Roanoke

R OANOKE, Va. ( WFXR) — Melrose Plaza is excited to announce that it is looking for an artist to complete a mural in the heart of the community.

The Melrose Plaza sits on Melrose Avenue and was once the home to Roanoke Valley’s Black Wall Street.

Now, it honors this history through several services and pillars including the Market on Melrose, Bank of Botetourt, Wellness on Melrose, and The Excel Center. It also serves as a cornerstone for affordable food, essential family health services, educational advancement, career opportunities, financial services, and several resources for members of the community.

Organizers are looking for an artist with a design that will highlight the services at Melrose Plaza while paying tribute to the rich, diversity of Northwest Roanoke. One of the inspirational symbols for the Melrose Plaza logo is the Sankofa bird .

It is derived from an African proverb that translates to “It is not wrong to go back for that which you have forgotten.”

This is the foundational principle of Melrose Plaza as it seeks to restore greatness in Northwest Roanoke.

“We want this mural to honor the history of Northwest Roanoke while celebrating a big step forward in revitalization through Melrose Plaza,” said Zenith Barrett , Vice President of Advancement, Goodwill Industries of the Valleys. “The selected mural will reflect the spirit of unity, diversity, and empowerment that defines our community.”

The new mural will wrap around the two sides of the building. One side will face 24th Street and the front of the building on Melrose Avenue. The estimated total space for the mural is 1,758 square feet.

The selected mural will include:

• Reflect on the history of Northwest Roanoke
• Celebrate the rich community culture
• Inspire viewers to visit Melrose Plaza
• Highlight the role that Melrose Plaza will play in restoring greatness in the area

Melrose Plaza will arrange access to the site and provide ladders, safety cones, and vests. However, all artists are responsible for materials, goods, and any liability insurance necessary for the project.

“We invite artists of all backgrounds and styles to submit proposals for a mural that captures the essence of Melrose Plaza as a welcoming space where individuals and families can access essential services and opportunities to thrive,” said Melrose Plaza in a release.

All applications must be submitted by June 28. Melrose Plaza says the artist will contacted in August and the deadline to finish the mural is Oct. 31, 2024.

For more information on submission requirements, visit the Melrose Plaza website. For questions about Melrose Plaza, additional site details, or to arrange to visit the site, please contact  [email protected]  or 540-915-8240. 

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