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A guide to the very best shopping in Moscow

Sep 17, 2019 • 5 min read

While shopping in GUM department store be sure to check out its famous glass roof © Popova Valeriya / Shutterstock

Shopping in Moscow can be quite a daunting experience – you can walk for miles without finding anything but mass-market brands and overpriced boutiques. But, if you do it right, it can also be quite fun. Here are our top tips on how to get the most out of your shopping trip in Moscow.

Shopping malls 

There are many shopping malls all around Moscow, but there three that double as bona fide tourist attractions: GUM, TsUM and Detsky Mir, all within walking distance from each other. GUM is one of the oldest department stores in the country. It’s famous for the glass roof designed by one of Russia’s most celebrated architects, Vladimir Shukhov.  Today it serves as a high-class shopping mall. There are plenty of luxury shops, a supermarket that sells lots of signature Russian goods and several places to eat. Head to the more expensive  Bosco Cafe with a Kremlin view or, for a budget option, try the Soviet-style cafeteria Stolovaya No 57 . GUM also occasionally hosts contemporary art exhibitions in one of its three main aisles.

The Red Square and beyond: a guide to Moscow’s neighbourhoods

TsUM  is another shopping mall from the pre-revolutionary times. It’s the most luxurious store in the city, famous for its paper bags that many Muscovites carry around or post pictures of on Instagram to let everyone know they shop there. Full of haute couture boutiques, TsUM also has a rooftop restaurant Buro , frequented by Russian celebrities. Tsentralny Detsky Mir  children's store is perfect if you are looking for a gift for a kid or want to check out its awesome viewing platform with good views over central Moscow. At just R50 per ticket it’s a steal. 

Food stalls and markets 

There are two food markets that are worth checking out in Moscow.  Danilovsky Market  became the trailblazer of Moscow’s foodie revolution when it got an uplift in 2017. As well as many trendy food stalls, the market also hosts lectures, film viewing and even theatre productions, and it recently opened an antiques section. It’s an architectural landmark, a masterpiece of late Soviet modernism that looks like a UFO. Food at  Usachevsky Market  tends to be a bit more pricey and upmarket. Both markets also sell plenty of fresh produce, local cheeses and cured meats.

Antiques and flea markets 

Shopping can also be a way to get away from the major landmarks and explore some sights off the beaten path. Moscow’s #1 flea market is  Izmailovsky , located in and around the pseudo-historical complex 'Izmailovsky Kremlin' with its colourful walls and domes. Open daily, it’s best to come here on the weekend to catch better deals. Admittedly tacky, Kremlin has a handful of weird museums like the Vodka History Museum or Baba Yaga Museum (Baba Yaga is a Russian fairy tale character). Part of the market had been gentrified into creative cluster Vernissage , with hipster coffee shops, various workshops and Svalka , an enormous two-floor secondhand shop with everything from used books to vintage clothing.

For high-class antiques, rare books and icons head to Antikvarnaya Lavka (Antique Store) just off Bolshaya Nikitskaya street (5 Kalashny Pereulok). Here you can snag a real masterpiece – a painting or a sculpture – but the prices are quite steep. 

Four great day trips from Moscow

If you are looking for a more authentic place with less hustle, one option is the antiques market on the premises of vodka distillery Crystal (4 ul Samokatnaya), which you can reach by taking tram 20 to Samokatnaya ul from the exit of metro Chkalovskaya. The market is located in the basement of one of the red-brick factory buildings. There are plenty of antiques, books and various Soviet-time memorabilia, such as Stalin and Lenin busts. While at Crystal, be sure to check out great works of street art – they are all around the factory premises. 

For die-hard antique collectors there’s also a place right outside of Moscow – Novopodrezkovo market (also know as Levsha market). Take a suburban train from Leningradsky station to Novopodrezkovo (approximately half an hour), cross the tracks to the other side and there you’ll find it – a treasure trove of used books, vinyl records, clothing, paintings and antique furniture.   

Where to shop for Russian designs

Gosha Rubchinskiy might be the only Russian clothing designer of world renown, especially after his collaboration with Kanye West, but there are many more up-and-coming fashion stars worth checking out. One of the places to do it is KM20 , the place Moscow fashionistas, with streetwear brands from all over the world and a lot of very rare items. There's also one of the best vegetarian cafes in Moscow on second floor. 

GUM shopping mall has a two-storey store devoted to Russian designers –  Sektsiya (Section). Section sells products made by 50 Russian brands, from accessories to Heart of Moscow souvenir pins. Plus there’s a bar overlooking the Red Square. 

If you are not into high fashion, but still interested in getting a cool outfit with Cyrillic script, check out the creative cluster centred around two abandoned factories: Flakon and Khlebozavod . One of the biggest stores is Zaporozhets Heritage  at Flakon , which sells clothing and accessories styled after various Soviet pop culture icons. The northern part, Khlebozavod, hosts several shops like Yunost  and Khlebny  that take a more punk-rock approach to streetwear. After shopping, have a pint at a great local craft beer bar Svoboda  or a coffee at Floo .        

Sputnik 1985 is a Russian clothing brand specialising in hoodies and hats with quotes in Cyrillic and retro prints. The store is located in a courtyard on Pokrovka street (19 Ulitsa Pokrovka). 

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THE 10 BEST Places to Go Shopping in Moscow

Shopping in moscow.

• Gift & Speciality Shops
• Art Galleries
• Shopping Malls
• Antique Stores
• Flea & Street Markets
• Farmers Markets
• Department Stores
• Shopping Tours
• Factory Outlets
• Fashion Shows & Tours
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3rd Transport Ring (TTK)
• District Central (TsAO)
• Garden Ring
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• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
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• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

2. Old Arbat (Stary Arbat)

3. Central Children's Store

4. Izmailovsky Market

5. Artplay Design and Architecture Center

6. Aviapark Shopping Mall

7. Danilovsky Market

8. Ilya Glazunov Gallery

9. Multimedia Art Museum

10. Mall Yevropeyskiy

11. Gostiny Dvor

12. Okhotny Ryad

13. Art Center. Moscow

14. Zurab Tseretelli's Art Gallery

15. Yeliseyevskiy

16. Vegas Kashirskoye Shosse

17. Watercolor School of Sergeya Andriyaki

18. Gallery Na Kashirke

19. Manezh Central Exhibition Hall

20. Afimoll City

21. Center MARS

22. Central Market

23. Moscow State Exhibition Hall ‘New Manege’

24. Shopping-Entertainment Complex Atrium

25. The World Calligraphy Museum

26. Usachevskiy Market

27. Mall Columbus

28. GROUND Solyanka

29. Moscow Museum of Modern Art

30. METROPOLIS shopping mall

What travellers are saying

• Danilovsky Market
• Aviapark Mall
• Art Center. Moscow
• Izmailovsky Market
• Central Children's Store
• Lumiere Gallery
• Techno Mall Gorbushkin Dvor
• Design Factory
• Perlov Tea House
• House of Books (Dom Knigi)
• Gallery Na Kashirke
• Academy of Aquarelle and Fine Arts of Sergey Andriyaka

The 25 best shopping streets and areas in Moscow

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Moscow Travel Guide

Despite the Soviet past, today’s Moscow is a dynamic, cutting-edge city – and the most populous in Europe. Well-heeled Muscovites flaunt their wealth by sipping Champagne with sushi at elite restaurants and shopping for designer labels at frighteningly expensive boutiques. Meanwhile, a growing middle-class has seen a proliferation of hip bars and trendy cultural centres.

While the Russian capital has striven to move on, recent tensions with the West have stirred up memories of the past. Moscow has previously led the way with protests against Vladimir Putin, but even with the tumbling ruble and economic sanctions, his popularity remains strong.

This doesn’t make Russia a no-go area, and Moscow – with its cosmopolitan, globe-trotting denizens – is not the formidable crucible often depicted. In summer, temperatures soar and the city’s vast parklands flourish. The historic Gorky Park received a complete makeover in 2012, installing free Wi-Fi and even a beach, while the Soviet behemoth that was the Rossiya Hotel has been demolished to make way for an ambitious central park.

Before that project comes to fruition, there is Red Square to marvel at, not least the mind-boggling St Basil’s Cathedral. Built by Ivan the Terrible in the 16th century, its multi-coloured domes and acid-trip patterns seem to defy logic. Nearby is the 14th-century Kremlin and seat of the tsars.

Indeed architecture is one of the city’s main attractions, especially for aficionados of Soviet buildings. All too many have been destroyed to make way for gleaming 21st-century skyscrapers, but Stalin’s unmistakable Seven Sisters still stand tall against the modern towers.

The city is naturally keen to celebrate its great writers, composers and artists too. This sophisticated city boasts world-class institutions like the Bolshoi Theatre, the Moscow Tchaikovsky Conservatory and the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts.

As for nightlife, the city is becoming increasingly hedonistic – whether jazz, rock or vodka is your thing, there are plenty of options. Even the culinary circuit has come on leaps and bounds, though an evening at one of the city’s growing stable of world-class restaurants requires considerable investment. This is, after all, a capital of oligarchs.

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Featured hotels, izmailovo (gamma-delta).

Constructed to accommodate visitors to the 1980 Olympics, the concrete towers of the Izmailovo boast a staggering 8,000 rooms. Institutional in atmosphere, and located far out in the northern suburbs, the hotel is handy for the enormous Izmaylovo Market and has decent city centre links. There are several onsite restaurants and in-room Wi-Fi is available too.

Peking Hotel

Built in 1956 as a little sister to Stalin's Seven Sister skyscrapers, and intended as post-war headquarters for the secret police, Moscow's Peking Hotel is a heritage hotel with a small 'h', in a good location just northwest of the centre. Although slightly old-fashioned, its 130 rooms are comfortable enough, with satellite TV and en-suite bathrooms.

Warsaw Hotel

Although its location may not be one of Moscow's most picturesque, the Warsaw Hotel is convenient for Gorky Park. Considering the quality of the competition, this is one of the best cheap options in the city, with clean and comfortable rooms, albeit in a rather dated style. Wi-Fi is complimentary and the Oktyabrskaya Metro station is right next door.

Golden Apple

A boutique hotel on a refreshingly human scale, the Golden Apple offers imaginative styling and a personal touch that many 5-star hotels lack. Behind the baroque facade, its minimalist rooms are cosy, and there's an onsite restaurant and an open-plan bar too. Staff speak excellent English and there's Wi-Fi access, a gym and a sauna.

Historical Hotel Sovietsky

In the 1950s, Joseph Stalin decreed that the famous Yar restaurant should be upgraded to a hotel and the Historical Hotel Sovietsky was born. It quickly became a showcase for the image of sophistication that the Soviet government wished to present to the world, and its 107 rooms still conjures up the nostalgia of this period in history.

Hotel Danilovsky

It's hard to imagine a more atmospheric place to stay than the 12-century precincts of the historic Danilovsky Monastery. Set amidst chapels and gardens, the hotel is a modern construction, but the rooms are comfortable and all have a view of the stately monastery buildings. There's a sauna and bar onsite too.

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Moscow International Business Center (Moscow City)

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What can you do at Moscow City?

• Dine in style: Moscow City is home to 100+ cafes and restaurants, including Europe’s highest restaurant and ice-cream shop
• See Moscow like never before: Ascend to one of Moscow City’s observation decks for an unparalleled panorama of Moscow
• Admire world-class architecture: Each of Moscow City’s skyscrapers has distinctive architecture and design
• Learn something new: Visit the Museum of High-Rise Architecture in Moscow or the Metro Museum

Moscow City is a multifunctional complex in the west of Moscow, which has come to represent the booming business of Russia’s capital. Its skyscrapers enrich Moscow’s skyline, contrasting the medieval cupolas and Stalinist high-rises. Visitors to Moscow City can enjoy entertainment high in the sky, as the complex is home not just to offices, but to restaurants, cinemas, viewing platforms, and museums.

Photo by Alex Zarubi on Unsplash

History of Moscow City

Moscow City was first conceived in 1991 by honoured Soviet architect Boris Tkhor, who proposed to construct a business center in Moscow. It would be complete with gleaming skyscrapers rivalling those of New York and London, to reflect the new life and growing ambitions of post-Soviet Russia.

The chosen site was a stone quarry and disused industrial zone in western Moscow, in between the Third Ring Road and Moskva River. Initially, the territory was divided into 20 sections arranged in a horseshoe shape around a central zone. The skyscrapers would increase in height as they spiralled around the central section, with shorter structures built on the waterfront to give the taller buildings behind a view of the river. 

Architect Gennady Sirota, who contributed to iconic projects such as the Olympic Sports Complex on Prospekt Mira, was selected as the chief architect, and many other world-famous architects were attracted to Moscow to realise their visions in Moscow City.

What can you see and do at Moscow City?

Where Moscow’s cityscape was once dominated by Stalin’s Seven Sisters skyscrapers , this is no more. Moscow City is home to eight of Russia’s ten tallest buildings, six of which exceed 300 metres in height. More buildings are still under construction there today, including the One Tower (which will be Europe’s second-tallest building). Once completed, Moscow City will comprise more than 20 innovative structures.

Each of Moscow City’s skyscrapers was designed by its own architect, lending the cluster of skyscrapers a unique appearance. Aside from being a site of architectural wonder, Moscow City is a place for leisure and entertainment with over 100 cafes and restaurants, exhibition spaces, cinemas, viewing platforms, and more.

Photo by Nikita Karimov on Unsplash

Federation Tower

• East Tower: 374m, 97 floors; West Tower: 243m, 63 floors
• Completed in 2017
• Architects: Sergey Tchoban and Peter Schweger

The East Federation Tower is the tallest building in Moscow, and the second-tallest building in Europe after the Lakhta Centre in St Petersburg. Visitors can enjoy a luxurious meal of seafood, truffles or steak at restaurant ‘Sixty’ on the 62nd floor of the West Tower, or visit Europe’s highest observation deck, ‘Panorama 360’, on the 89th floor of the East Tower.

Did you know? The ice cream and chocolate shop on the 360 observation deck are the highest in the world!

• South Tower: 354m, 85 floors; North Tower: 254m, 49 floors
• Completed in 2015
• Architect: Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP

The South OKO Tower is the third-tallest building in Russia and Europe. Here, you can visit ‘Ruski’ to dine on hearty Russian cuisine cooked on a real Russian stove, and have a drink in the ice bar. Alternatively, visit restaurant, nightclub and performance space ‘Birds’; the restaurant is the highest in Europe, situated on the 86th floor roof terrace alongside an observation deck. The OKO Towers are also home to karaoke club ‘City Voice’.

Did you know? Underneath OKO Towers is the largest underground parking in Europe, with 16 levels and 3,400 parking spaces.

Mercury Tower

• 339m tall, 75 floors
• Architects : Mikhail Posokhin, Frank Williams, Gennady Sirota

Another multifunctional skyscraper, which was designed as the first truly ‘green’ building in Moscow. The Mercury Tower has a distinct geometric shape and copper-coloured glazing, and was the tallest building in Europe upon completion. Visit ‘More i myaso’ (Sea and meat) on the first floor of the tower to enjoy European and Mediterranean cuisine whilst surrounded by greenery. On the 2nd and 40th floors a modern art gallery, the ‘ILONA-K artspace’, has just opened.

City of Capitals

• Moscow Tower: 302m, 76 floors; St Petersburg Tower: 257m, 65 floors
• Completed in 2009
• Architect: Bureau NBBJ

The unique geometric design of the City of Capitals towers resembles stacks of rotating blocks, and is rooted in Constructivism of the early Soviet period (many Soviet Constructivist buildings can be found in Moscow). Visitors to the Moscow Tower can enjoy a range of cuisines – traditional Italian dishes on the summer terrace of ‘Tutto Bene’, Panasian cuisine in the tropical luxury of the ‘Bamboo Bar’ on the 1st floor’, and poke or smoothie bowls at ‘Soul in the Bowl’ cafe on the 80th floor.

Tower on the Embankment

• Tower A: 84m; Tower B:127m; Tower C: 268m, 61 floors
• Completed in 2007
• Architects: Vehbi Inan and Olcay Erturk

After completion, the Tower on the Embankment was the tallest building in Europe, and is now the 13th tallest. It houses the headquarters of several large Russian and international  companies, including IBM and KPMG. There are two cafes located on the 1st floor of Tower C – self-service café ‘Obed Bufet’ (Lunch Buffet) and Bakery Chain ‘Khleb Nasushchny’ (Daily Bread).

Evolution Tower

• 255m tall, 54 floors
• Architects: Philip Nikandrov and RMJM Scotland Ltd

Evolution is Moscow City’s most recognisable tower, and the 11th tallest building in Russia. Its façade is a true architectural marvel, comprising continuous strips of curved glazing spiralling high into  the sky. According to the architect, Philip Nikandrov, the spiral shape of the tower honours centuries of architectural design in Russia, from the onion domes of St Basil's Cathedral to Vladimir Shukhov’s Tatlin Tower, a masterpiece of Constructivist design. Outside the Evolution tower is a landscaped terrace and pedestrian zone descending to the Presnenskaya Embankment, which was also designed by Nikandrov.

Did you know? Moscow’s largest wedding palace was supposed to be built on the site of the Evolution tower, though the project was abandoned.

• 239m tall, 60 floors
• Completed in 2011

Imperia’s interesting design has a curved roof and an arched glass façade. Inside the tower are various cafes including ‘City Friends’ for all-day breakfasts and light lunches, ‘Mama in the City’ for simple meals of Russian cuisine, and ‘abc kitchen’ for European and Indian-inspired dishes. Alternatively, visit ‘High Bar’ on the 56th floor for cocktails with a view. In Imperia you’ll also find the Museum of High-Rise Construction in Moscow (suitably located on the 56th floor), and the Camera Immersive Theatre.

Did you know? Inside Vystavochnaya metro station is the Metro Museum , dedicated to the history of the beautiful Moscow Metro!

• 130m tall, 26 floors
• Completed in 2001
• Architect: Boris Tkhor

Tower 2000 was Moscow City’s first tower. It stands on the opposite bank of the Moskva River, and houses a viewing platform from which visitors can admire an unparalleled panorama of Moscow City. The Bagration Bridge reaches across the river from the tower to Moscow City, and underneath are piers from where you can take boat trips.

Photo by Alexander Popov on Unsplash

Afimall is Moscow’s largest entertainment and shopping complex, home to 450 shops, cafes and restaurants, a cinema, and a virtual-reality game park. The shopping centre is located in the central section of Moscow City, and a cinema and concert hall are currently under construction there.

What’s nearby?

Sechenov Botanical Gardens: The botanical gardens of the First Moscow State Medical University was created for students’ training and research in 1946. Today it is open for free visits, and is home to a large arboretum.

Park Krasnaya Presnya: This park belonged to the Studenets estate of the Gagarin princes. It is a monument of 18th and 19th century landscaping, with Dutch ponds, ornate bridges, and tree-lined alleys. There are also sports facilities, sports equipment rental, and cafes.

Photo by Akkit  on Wikipedia

Essential information for visitors

Website: https://www.citymoscow.ru/

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +7 (495) 730-23-33

Nearest metro: Mezhdunarodnaya (closest to the skyscrapers), Delovoy Tsentr (underneath Afimall), Vystavochnaya (closest to Expocentre)

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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.

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Planning a trip to Moscow? Our travel guide contains up-to-date, personal information on everything from what to see , to when to visit , where to stay , and what to eat !

• General Information
• What to see
• How to get to Moscow
• Where to stay
• Where to eat

Why visit Moscow?

Majestic churches, impressive historic fortresses, and palatial buildings: Moscow is a fascinating city whose emblematic architecture reflects the turbulent history that has defined Russia throughout the centuries.

The traces of the USSR can be found around every corner of the city , side by side with the iconic relics of Imperial Russia , like the mythical Red Square , the imposing Kremlin , and the beautiful  St Basil's Cathedral . 

Discover a fascinating world of Cold War bunkers, golden-domed basilicas, world-class art museums, and the legendary "palace of the people,"  as the Moscow Metro has been nicknamed. Whether you fancy watching a classical Russian ballet at the Bolshoi Theatre , perusing the fine arts at the Pushkin Museum , or marveling at the sheer size of the monuments to the Soviet state's achievements at the  All-Russia Exhibition Centre , this travel guide will help you on your way!

Where to start?

If you're going to travel to Moscow and you don't know much about the city yet, the first thing to do is to dive into its legendary history - understanding the past will help you understand the present. Next, check out our practical hints and tips on traveling to the city before discovering which of its most important museums , monuments , and attractions pique your interest.

Looking for a place to stay?

Booking your accommodation in advance is the best way to get great discounts. Our detailed guide on where to stay in Moscow  will help you decide which neighborhood you'd like to look for hotels or apartments in, and our hotel search engine will find you the best deals!

Why is our Moscow travel guide the best?

Introducing Moscow is a  city guide written by travelers for travelers  and contains personalized advice to help you make the most of your trip to the city.

All the information in this guide is valid as of December 2022. If you find any errors or have any comments, please feel free to contact us .

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• The Best Shopping Malls In...

The Best Shopping Malls in Moscow

Nestled within one of the globe’s most opulent metropolises, Moscow’s shopping scene paints a diverse canvas that caters to every shopper’s desire. From extravagant luxury labels to trendy high-street fashion, this Russian capital is a treasure trove where shopping transcends budgets. Amid the city’s labyrinthine streets, shopping centers emerge as attractions in their own right, offering an experience that goes beyond retail therapy. Join us as we explore seven illustrious shopping malls that satiate your appetite for both indulgence and retail delights in the heart of Moscow.

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Russia’s main department store, the Moscow GUM is an ultimate architectural stunner, housing a variety of high-end boutiques. Built between 1890 and 1893 and known as the Upper Trading Rows until 1920, the legendary store is now home to over 200 boutiques selling a variety of brands: from luxury Dior to affordable Zara. Even if luxury shopping is not on your to-do list, the Moscow GUM is still worth a visit – the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square, offers a variety of tasty Soviet-style eateries and makes a fantastic view in the dark.

Beautifully located in the historic centre of Moscow, the TSUM Department Store is mere steps from the city’s important tourist attractions, including Red Square. Built in 1908, the Gothic style store sells over 1000 famous brands, including Alexander McQueen, Lanvin and Carolina Herrera. Much like its cousin GUM, the TSUM Department Store is known for its luxury boutiques, stunning architecture and great eateries.

Okhotny Ryad

Okhotny Ryad Shopping centre is yet another shopping mall in the proximity of Red Square, which unlike GUM and TSUM offers a more down-to-earth price tag. One of the largest shopping centres in Moscow, this underground arcade is home to over 160 brands of apparel, footwear, jewelry, makeup and perfumes. Okhotny Ryad is also known for its great food court, where most tourists come to stop by, once they’ve done a tour of the Kremlin .

Tsvetnoy Central Market

A pure hipster heaven, the Tsvetnoy Central Market, or simply Tsvetnoy is seven floors of shopping, eating and fun. From the high street ground floor to the deluxe boutiques on the fifth, Tsvetnoy sells brands for every taste and budget, including Walk of Shame, American Apparel, All Saints, and Vivienne Westwood. Awarded by multiple design accolades, the beautiful shopping mall is also home to many great pop-up shops, Moscow’s biggest Rive Gauche store and the best indoor farmer’s market in the city.

AFIMALL City

Somewhat farther from the city centre, AFIMALL City is a dramatically less crowded and very impressive shopping mall right in the heart of Moscow City Business District. Praised for its innovative design, the store comprises five levels of retail space with over 400 shops, 50 restaurants and cafés and an IMAX cinema. Built for adults and children alike, AFIMALL City is a must if you plan on visiting Moscow City Business District.

Metropolis Shopping Centre

Metropolis is where you should go for high-street retail if you don’t feel like traveling too far from the city centre. Home to boutiques like Zara, Marks & Spencer, H&M, New Yorker, GAP and River Island, Metropolis also houses a huge supermarket, bowling alley, swimming pool and a cinema.

Aviapark Shopping Centre

Of all the malls on the list, Aviapark takes the most time to get to, but Europe’s biggest mall is definitely worth the free shuttle bus ride. With over 500 stores, 80 eateries and a 17-screen cinema, all spread across the equivalent of 36 football pitches, Aviapark is officially the most popular shopping mall in Moscow. However, the major draw of the glass-roofed shopping centre is the 24-meter-tall pillar aquarium, filled with tropical fish.

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• Shopping In Moscow: 14 Top Places That Will Make You Believe The City Is As Classy & Chic As Milan!

The cities in Russia may not be as popular as the fashion capitals Milan and Paris, but if you go for shopping in Moscow , your opinion will change, pockets will feel lighter, and heart happier than ever. Home to both high-end brands and stylish street styles, Moscow offers just the ideal shopping therapy you might need. Though what makes shopping there a one-of-its-kind experience is the fact that the city has something for every type of a shopaholic, and never disappoints.

From chic to classy, it has got it all and we can vouch that after shopping at these 14 best places in the city, even you would agree that Moscow is as good as Milan or Paris.

14 Best Places For Shopping In Moscow

Here’s a list of 14 places for shopping in Moscow city which you must include in your bucket list. Take a look and note them down for your next Holiday to Moscow!

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Located in the Red Square’s eastern side, the GUM is the most famous department stores and shopping malls in Moscow. Due to its 19th century architectural style, it looks like a royal palace and indeed offers an experience that’s no less than royalty-like. With brands like Dolce & Gabbana, Valentino, Saint Laurent, Jimmy Choo, Emilio Pucci, and more, you’d surely end up having the most classic shopping experience in Russia.

Timings: 10 AM to 10 PM on all the days Location: Red Square, 3, Moskva, Russia What To Buy : Apparels

Must Read: Russia Circle Trip: 20 Places To Visit In Moscow And St. Petersburg

2. Arbat Street

Situated in the historical centre of the city, this is the best Moscow shopping street . From classy souvenirs to innumerable elegant stores, you’d end up finding a lot that you didn’t even want to buy in the first place. But, we can vouch that there wouldn’t be any regrets since the Arbat Street is the oldest and most popular place for cheap shopping in Moscow .

Timings: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM Location: Arbat Ulitsa | Arbatskaya Metro, Moscow, Russia What To Buy : Antique items and souvenirs

For shopping in Russia, Moscow is indeed the best place to be and TsUM proves that well. Situated on Petrovka Street, this high-end mall can be reached on foot from most of the popular tourist attractions like Red Square and the History Museum. It is home to around 1,000 brands of clothing, footwear, accessories, and cosmetics. So, if you’re on a shopping spree and wish to give your wardrobe a makeover, this is the place where you need to stop by.

Timings: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM from Monday to Friday, and 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM on every Sunday Location: Petrovka Ulitsa, 2, Moskva, Russia What To Buy : Apparels, accessories and cosmetics

4. Izmailovo Market

Located near the Partizanskaya metro station, this craft, flea, art & antiquity market is undoubtedly the best place to buy Moscow souvenirs and Russian handicrafts. Classic paintings, icons, handmade items, books, fashion wear, bags, and furniture are some of the things that you can buy here. Also, if you wish to shop more and spend less, visit here between 10 to 3.

Timings: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM from Monday to Friday, and 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Wednesday, Saturday & Sunday Location: 2, Moskva, Russia What To Buy : Handicrafts and paintings

5. Kuznetsky Most

Famous for its boutiques and bookstores, Kuznetsky Most is indeed a famous shopping street in the city. From German fashion to French styles, you can find the best of everything chic here. Trendy accessories, top-notch fragrances, and elegant apparel are some of the things to look forward to if you’re visiting this popular place.

Timings: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM on all the days Location: Ulitsa Kuznetskiy Most, Moskva, Russia What To Buy : Fragrances and apparels

Suggested Read: Museums In Moscow: 10 Places In Moscow That Are A Reminder Of Russia’s Glorious Past

6. Aviapark

Located in the northern part of the city in the Sokol district, Aviapark Mall is one of the newly opened shops in Moscow . It has gained popularity for being the biggest mall in Europe till now and we bet you won’t be disappointed once you’re here. With innumerable high-end brands under one roof, top-notch restaurants, and cinemas, it makes for the perfect place to pamper or treat yourself.

Timings: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM on all the days Location: Khodynskiy Bul’var, 4, Moskva, Russia What To Buy : Shoes, clothes, bags

Suggested Read: 10 Places To Visit In Russia To Witness The Beauty Of This Incredible Nation

7. Okhotny Ryad

Okhotny Ryad is yet another popular shopping mall in Moscow , but the largest. It has innumerable brands where you would easily find everything you’d be looking for. You can go around and shop everything that you desire until you find yourself in the need for a relaxing break. And when you do, just visit this mall’s food court which will pamper the foodie in you equally.

Timings: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM on all the days Location: Manege Square, 1, Moscow What To Buy : Bags, shoes, clothes

8. Flacon Design Factory

Once known as a perfume factory, Falcon is now an amazing place that houses high-end clothing stores, trendy local shops, classic restaurants, entertaining fairs, and more. With so much to do and see, ‘what to do in Moscow’ would never be your concern if you are spending a day at Falcon. This place is not only a great place to shop, but indeed an impeccable spot to catch a glimpse of the Russian culture & lifestyle.

Timings: Open for 24 hours Location: Bol’shaya Novodmitrovskaya Ulitsa, 36, Moskva, Russia What To Buy : Gift items

Suggested Read: The Glass Beach In Russia Turns Empty Beer Bottles Into A Stunning Kaleidoscope Of Colourful Pebbles!

9. Gorbushka Market

Home to a countless number of stores and stalls selling all kinds of electronics, Gorbushka in Moscow is the place to visit if you’re looking for anything like gadgets, home appliances, or cheap DVDs. While there is no significant difference in the prices, the variety is endless. Also, the CDs or DVDs sold here are mostly pirated, so be careful about buying them or carrying them out of the country as it is illegal.

Timings: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM on all the days Location: Ulitsa Barklaya, 8, Moskva, Russia What To Buy : Electrical appliances and gadgets

10. Tverskaya

Tverskaya is amongst the most famous Moscow shopping streets where you can find everything from a gem on the street to a jewel in a store. This radial road is a mecca for Shopaholics and there is no reason why you should not visit this place. With hundreds of luxury stores and mid-range shops, you’d surely end up with a lot of bags in your hand and gleam in your eyes.

Timings: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM on all the days Location: Tverskaya ulitsa, Moscow, Russia What To Buy : Jewelry

Suggested Read: A Freak Portable Charger Explosion On Flight Caused An Evacuation In Russia

11. Artplay Design And Architecture Centre

Earlier, this center was a factory which is now converted into an art and culture center. It comprises a diverse range of shops, bars, galleries, cafes, music clubs, a cinema, and book shops among others. If you are deciding to explore Moscow then you must visit this center as it houses several decor items and gift items.

Timings : 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM Location : Nizhnyaya Syromyatnicheskaya St., 10, Moscow 105120, Russia What To Buy : Gift items, home decor items and local art

12. Vintage Voyage

Located at the heart of the town, Vintage Voyage offers some of the most charming clothes. The pieces are not produced in bulk, instead, you will find handmade masterpieces ranging from traditional to contemporary. Due to its high-quality clothes and brand recognition among people, Vintage Voyage is one of the top places for clothes shopping in Russia.

Timings : 12:00 AM to 9:30 PM Location : Kuznetskiy Most st., 9/10, Moscow, Russia What To Buy : Clothes

Suggested Read: Villas In Moscow: 7 Places That Offer Unparalleled Luxury In The Heart Of Russia

13. Central Children’s Store

If you are visiting Moscow with your family, then the Central Children’s Store is the place to do all the shopping for your kids. It is not famous for shopping but also as an educational arena and entertainment for children. It was inaugurated in 1957 and has been recently renovated.

Timings : 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM Location : Teatralny Drive, 5/1, Moscow 109012, Russia What To Buy : Toys for children

14. European Mall

Located just beside the Kievskaya metro station, the European Mall has eight floors and offers luxury shopping in Moscow. You can easily locate different brands like Zara, Mango, Promod, and many more. Apart from clothes, the mall also provides home decor items, jewelry, kitchenware, and furniture. After a hectic day of shopping, you might want to savor some food at the traditional cafes.

Timings : 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM Location : Kiyevsky Station Square, 2, Moskva, Russia, 121059 What To Buy : Clothes, shoes and bags

Suggested Read: 7 Theme Parks In Moscow To Make Your Trip To The City Worth Cherishing

Most Exclusive Things To Buy In Russia

While Russia houses almost every high-end brand or an exquisite new store, it also offers some pretty unique things, especially for tourists to take home as souvenirs. Some of these exclusive things that you must buy while shopping in Moscow, Russia are imperial porcelains, Russian shawls, gzhel ceramics, palekh miniatures, Faberge replicas, Russian chocolate, and space food. Since these things are definitely items you wouldn’t find anywhere else, make sure you pick them first!

Suggested Read: Starting Next Year, You Could Walk Through Space, And Here’s How!

Tips For Shopping In Moscow

• While buying historical artwork and artifacts, make sure you check with the seller how old is the item and get a certificate as a Russian law prohibits the export of such items.
• During shopping in Russia, you may definitely want to splurge on high-end brands. But don’t forget to buy the unique gems in the country like the space food, Faberge replicas, imperial porcelains, and more.
• Bargaining is not something that you can do at every place in Moscow. So make sure to look around for any ‘Prices are fixed’ signs before you try and make a bargain.
• Try to learn some important Russian words that help you while you’re shopping in the malls or the famous markets.
• Don’t forget to take a look at the duty-free allowance before you make your purchases.
• Check the weather and wear comfortable clothes before you head for street shopping.

Further Read: Moscow In Winter: 10 Things To Do In The City That Holds To The Key To Russia’s Past

So, the next time you’re planning a vacation to Russia or are looking for the best places across the world to fulfil your shopping desires, make sure you count Moscow in it. Also, don’t forget to carry this Moscow shopping guide with you for having the most impeccable experience!

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shopping In Moscow

What are the best things to shop in Moscow?

Moscow will present you with some of the best shopping options such as trendy accessories, top-notch fragrances, gadgets, home appliances, clothes, luxury shopping with brands like Promod, Zara, Mango, etc, Moscow souvenirs and Russian handicrafts.

What are the best places to shop from in Moscow?

You will find some of the best places to shop from in Moscow as this is the place that is every shopaholic’s dream come to life. You will get plenty of options such as Okhotny Ryad, Flacon Design Factory, Arbert Street, Kuznetsky Most, Aviapark Mall, Gorbushka Market, GUM, TsUM, Izmailovo Market, etc.

What are the best things to take for friends and family from Moscow?

You can pack some Moscow souvenirs and Russian handicrafts for your friends and family back home. This way you will be taking a little bit of Moscow with you back home to your loved ones!

What is the best time to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is from the month of April to May, this is the time when the temperature is between 50-60 degrees. The sun is at its brightest best and you get to see the true Russia through your eyes. But make sure that you book your hotel in advance if you are planning a summer trip to Moscow!

What are the best places you cannot miss out on in Moscow?

You will find some of the most amazing places in Moscow such as Kremlin, Gorky’s House, Lenin’s Tomb, Patriarch Ponds, Moscow Conservatory, Gorky’s House Museum of Russian Impressionism, etc.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

Yes, the locals in Moscow speak English and you can easily shop all around the city without getting tensed about the language you have to use while conversing.

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Europeisky Shopping Mall

http://www.evropeysky.ru

The Europeisky 'Evropeysky' Shopping Mall is one of the largest and most modern in Moscow. It comprises eight floors spread over 180,000 square meters. The shopping centre has a central location and located just few minutes away by walk from the White House, famous Old Arbat Street and few minutes by car from the Victory Park and Triumphal Arch.

The Evropeysky has more than four hundred shops representing popular brands such as Adidas, Nike, Reebok, Puma, Zara, Marks & Spencer, Mexx, Dougals, Re:store, Top Shop / Top Man, Timberland, Guess, Replay, Mothercare, Braccialini, Bershka, Oasis, Swarovski, Levi's, Benetton, Mango, Nokia, Sony, Samsonite and many more are available.

The award-winning modern interiors of the Europeisky Shopping Mall includes five atriums named after five main European capitals - the central main one is unsurprisingly named Moscow and this lead to the other four areas, namely, Paris, Rome, Berlin and London.

When you are done from shopping to your heart's content, the Evropeysky also offers numerous entertainment options. A nine cinema complex including a 3-D cinema called Formula Kino shows the most recent films. There are also thirty restaurants and cafes to choose from. If you prefer a more active form of entertainment then the indoor skating rink with separate skating rinks for adults and children, and professional trainers on hand, is a great option. The children's entertainment centre 'Igromax' is another popular family-friendly attraction at the Europeisky Shopping Mall and includes amusement galleries, bowling, billiards, kid's room, trampoline and rock climbing attraction.

The twenty-four hour supermarket 'Perekrestok' is located on the ground floor. A beauty studio, sun tan studio, manicure and pedicure services are also onsite.

A massive multi-storey car park with 1,200 car park slots make access to the mall easy and, for those using the metro, the Europeisky shopping and entertainment complex is right next to the Kievskaya metro station. Banks, foreign exchange and pay terminals are also available throughout the mall.

Opening Times:

Monday - Thursday and Sunday: 10am - 10pm

Friday and Saturday: 10am - 11pm

2, Ploshad Kievskogo Vokzala , Moscow

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Moscow Travel Guide

Boasting a history that spans eight centuries, Russia's capital has evolved into an expansive megapolis which resembles a city-state. Its Cold War history and massive size might give it an intimidating image, but at its core Moscow is every bit the European city offering wealth of history and culture coupled with modernity and edginess. Travel here for strikingly impressive landmarks, high art, world class ballet, lavish celebrations, along with dynamic pockets of nightlife and trendy restaurants. — Nano Betts

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Moscow

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Moscow is one of Europe's most enigmatic destinations, home to a fascinating history and colorful, awe-inspiring architecture you won't find anywhere else in the world. Moscow might be one of the most populous cities in the world with over 11 million inhabitants, but this hasn't changed its strong cultural and social traditions.

Walk the cobblestone streets of the Red Square or the banks of the Moskva River early in the morning, and it's hard to tell what century you're in.

Tsarist architecture, must-see churches, and glamorous shopping opportunities blend together for a visual experience you won't forget. For ideas on what to see and do while visiting Russia, here's our list of top tourist attractions in Moscow.

1. Marvel at the Size of the Kremlin

2. catch a performance at the bolshoi theatre, 3. shop at the luxurious gum, 4. make your way into lenin's mausoleum, 5. spend an hour (or three) at red square, 6. discover history at the museum of cosmonautics, 7. ride the stunning moscow metro, 8. explore the moscow state integrated museum-reserve, 9. spend a rainy day at the tretyakov gallery, 10. walk up and down arbat street, 11. stop by the vdnkh all-russian exhibition centre, 12. wander around gorky park, where to stay in moscow for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions & things to do in moscow.

Moscow's most recognizable structure is without a doubt the Kremlin, a 15th-century fortified complex that covers an area of 275,000 square meters surrounded by walls built in the 1400s.

The Grand Kremlin Palace -which has over 700 rooms- was once home to the Tsar family and is now the official residence of the president of the Russian Federation, although most heads of state choose to reside elsewhere.

The massive complex also includes many other buildings, some of which are open to the public and can be visited regularly. Aside from three cathedrals (including one where the Tsars were once crowned) and a number of towers, the Kremlin is also home to the Armory building, a museum holding everything from the royal crown and imperial carriages to the ivory throne of Ivan the Terrible and Fabergé eggs.

The Bolshoi Theater is home to the largest and one of the oldest ballet and opera companies in the world . While the theater has undergone several major renovations over the past century-including a recent one in 2011 to restore some of the imperial architectural details-it still retains all of its Neoclassical grandeur.

The Bolshoi Theater you see today opened in 1824, after several older versions burned down. Inside, red velvet, a three-tiered crystal chandelier, and gilt moldings give the place a Byzantine-Renassaince grandiose feel like no other.

Catching a show from the resident ballet and opera troupes is a treat, as the theater often presents a number of classic performances, such as Tchaikovsky's Mazeppa and Rachmaninoff's Francesca da Rimini, both of which originally premiered here.

Moscow's oldest and most upscale shopping center is an architectural marvel. GUM (short for Glávnyj Universálnyj Magazín or "Main Universal Store") was built in the late 1800s in neo-Russian style to showcase a beautiful mix of a steel skeleton and 20,000 panels of glass forming an arched roof.

This was a unique construction at the time, since the glass had to be strong enough to support the snow-heavy Russian winters. The building is just as impressive outside, with all three levels covered in marble and granite.

While GUM is no longer the largest shopping center in Moscow, it's still by far the most beautiful. Home to brands like Gucci and Manolo Blahnik, this might not be the ideal destination for most budget-conscious visitors, but the beauty of the building itself is worth a visit.

On the third floor, there are also great dining options, including a Soviet-style canteen that serves traditional Russian food, and a stand selling ice cream made by hand using an original 1954 recipe originally approved by the Soviet government.

Lenin's Mausoleum, the final resting place of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin, occupies a central spot in Red Square. His body has been in the mausoleum since his death in 1924-and although the original plan was for him to be buried after a short period of public display for mourning, the plan quickly changed.

After over 100,000 visited the tomb over a period of six weeks, it was decided that a new sarcophagus and a more permanent display space could actually preserve Lenin's body for much longer than expected-and Lenin's Mausoleum was built.

Over the years, the mausoleum and its marble stairs also became the main spot from where Soviet leaders would watch parades and events happening in Red Square.

Lenin's embalmed body can still be seen today, lying down in a bulletproof glass sarcophagus as if he's sleeping. While a visit to the mausoleum is certainly unusual, it has become a must-do for history buffs looking to understand how Lenin's legacy truly changed the nation. Come ready to wait, though -there are usually lines to get in.

All of Moscow's main streets start at Red Square, so it's easy to see why this is considered the heart of the city. A massive space of 330 meters by 70 meters, the square is flanked by the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, two cathedrals, and the State Historical Museum.

In 1945, a massive Victory Parade was held here to celebrate the defeat of Nazi Germany by the Soviet Armed Forces.

St. Basil's Cathedral , one of the most recognizable buildings on the square, was built in 1555. The unique cathedral has architectural details inspired by Byzantine and Asian design, as well as details that resemble those found in famous mosques. There are nine individual chapels inside the church, all decorated with colorful mural art.

Both the square itself and the Kremlin are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites . On weekends, there are sometimes stalls selling souvenirs and traditional items here, such as matryoshka (Russian nesting dolls), at the entrance of the square.

At one point, Russia and the US were toe-to-toe when it came to space exploration. While that might no longer be the case, the museum's amazing collection-which includes over 85,000 items-is still awe-inspiring.

Main exhibits include the space capsule used by Yuri Gagarin , the first human to travel into outer space; a USSR flag with moon fragments; a Soviet spacesuit; and a rocket propulsion unit from the 1960s. A special two-story hall showcases sections of the Mir space station interior, and there are also models of the first sputniks and a replica miniature spaceship.

English-language tours are available, and there's also a Cinema Hall showing subtitled short films about the history of space exploration programs and the first manned space flight.

The museum is located inside the base of the monument to the Conquerors of Space, which was built almost 20 years before the museum opened.

Riding the Moscow metro is an experience all in itself, but even just heading underground to walk through the stations is something no visitor should miss. With 223 stations and 12 metro lines crosscutting through Moscow, however, this can be tricky, so visiting at least a few of the most impressive ones is a good start.

Arbatskaya station was designed by a skyscraper architect, so it's no surprise that it features multicolored granite slabs and impressive bronze chandeliers.

Park Kultury station , located next to Gorky Park, is covered in marble and features reliefs of people involved in sports, while Teatralnaya station is decorated with porcelain figures dancing and wearing traditional Russian costumes.

The metro is open between 5:30am and 1:00am but it's very crowded in the early morning and after 4pm, so it's better to visit in the late morning or early afternoon to really appreciate the architecture without the crowds.

The Moscow State Integrated Art and Historical Architectural and Natural Landscape Museum-Reserve is a cultural open-air museum complex comprised of four different historical sites.

The most important site, the Kolomenskoye Estate, was once the summer residence of Tsars as far back as the 14 th century. The complex, which covers almost 300 hectares, is home to fairy-tale wooden palaces; a tent-roof stone church built in the 1500s; a water tower; fort towers and structures; and the 24-room Museum of Wooden Architecture , which includes the restored dining room of Tsar Alexei I.

Beautiful manicured gardens , riverside picnic areas, and a massive collection of both artifacts and structures make this a great destination to help you see what medieval Russia looked like. English-language tours are available, but you're also free to wander the grounds on your own.

The largest collection of Russian art in the world sits here, with over 180,000 paintings, sculptures, and religious art dating back to over a millennia ago. The gallery, built using beautiful red and white colors from classical Russian architecture, is located near the Kremlin and it was built in the early 20 th century.

Significant art pieces include the Vladimir Mother of God; a Byzantine icon of the Virgin and child dating back to the 1100s; Andrei Rublev's The Trinity icon from the 15 th century; and several works by Ilya Repin, the most famous realist painter in Russia.

On the grounds of the museum, there is also an 86-meter-tall statue of Peter the Great, as well as a number of Socialist Realism sculptures.

Moscow's one-kilometer-long pedestrian street has been around since the 15 th century. Originally a trade route in the outskirts of the city, Arbat Street is now very centrally located, home to posh buildings and lots of places to eat and shop.

Beautiful street lamps and two significant statues-one of Princess Turandot (from Puccini's last opera) and one of Soviet-era poet Bulat Okudzhava-adorn the street, which fills up with both locals and tourists on evenings and weekends.

A great place to pick up souvenirs or sit down at an outdoor café, Arbat Street also offers a chance to visit the former home of poet Alexander Pushkin and the café both Anton Chekhov and Leo Tolstoy used to visit.

Although it was originally designed as a general-purpose trade show venue, this park complex now houses amusement rides , ice rinks , and a number of galleries and other attractions for all ages.

The park's most famous landmarks are the Moskvarium, a marine biology center home to over 8000 species of marine animals, the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art, and a shopping center selling traditional products from former Soviet countries.

There's even a film museum showing Soviet cartoons or even a full-length film (for an extra fee) and an education center offering masterclasses on everything from becoming a barista to video montage (call or write in advance to find out which ones are English-friendly).

Soviet-era pavilions, sculptures, and fountains abound here as well, including the famous Friendship of the Peoples Fountain, which features statues of women dressed in costumes from different former Soviet countries.

Named after the famous Russian writer Maxim Gorky (who was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature five times but never won it) and sitting right across the Moskva River, Gorky Park covers 120 hectares of beautiful ponds and green spaces.

Popular with both locals and tourists, the park offers a variety of things to enjoy-from sunbeds, hammocks, and drinking fountains to free yoga classes and children's playgrounds. There's free Wi-Fi and sockets for charging your phone, as well as many food stands and plenty of wild animals, including deer, rabbits, and pheasants.

Visitors can rent paddle boats and bicycles to explore the park-and from May to October, there is also an open-air movie theater, as well as scheduled presentations by street performers, musicians, and artists. Gorky Park attracts the young and old, so don't be surprised to see a mix of people exercising, playing chess, and sunbathing.

Luxury Hotels :

• Lotte Hotel Moscow is one of the top 5-star properties in Moscow offering the largest Royal Suite in Russia. The trendy rooms and suites here all have contemporary style and great city views. On-site amenities are plentiful. There are two restaurants: one serving contemporary Italian fare, and the other Japanese. There is an impressively lit indoor swimming pool, a well-known spa, and a state-of-the-art gym.
• Another excellent luxury hotel is the Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow . The residential-style property is in the heart of Moscow just next to the Bolshoi Theatre and within walking distance of the Kremlin and Red Square. The rooms and suites have been opulently designed by Tony Chi. The on-site restaurant serves a mix of European and Armenian specialities. There is also a Japanese sushi bar and a rooftop lounge with fabulous city views.
• The St. Regis Moscow Nikolskaya also has a central location just a few minutes from the Kremlin and Red Square. The 5-star property has a mix of elegant rooms and suites, including interconnecting room options for families with kids. There are multiple restaurants on-site including an Italian bistro. Other amenities include the fabulous Iridium Spa, which does a full range of treatments and has an indoor swimming pool, sauna, and steam room.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Palmira Business Club is a top mid-range choice. The contemporary lifestyle hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites, including options for families. Suites are quite spacious and have kitchenettes. Amenities here include a complimentary breakfast at the on-site restaurant, a hot tub, sauna, and spa. There is also a fitness center.
• The trendy Mercure Moscow Baumanskaya offers a mix of rooms and suites with contemporary decor. The mid-range hotel can arrange airport transportation and offers baggage storage. Other amenities include a restaurant and room service. The front desk is open 24 hours.
• Boutique Hotel Brighton is about 10 minutes from the city center in a leafy park area. It offers excellent value for money and has charming rooms and suites with sound-proof windows and doors, as well as blackout curtains. A complimentary breakfast is served, and there is also an indoor swimming pool.

Budget Hotels :

• Hotel Ibis Budget Moscow Panfilovskaya is about a 15-minute drive from Moscow's downtown, and it's within walking distance from a metro station that will take you there. The soundproof rooms at this budget property are clean, comfortable, and can sleep up to three people. The hotel is pet friendly, has paid parking available on-site, and also has a salon.
• If you just need a budget hotel near the airport then check out Aviator Hotel Sheremetyevo . Located right at the airport, it has soundproof rooms, including options for families. Amenities include an indoor play area for kids, a sauna and swimming pool, and a free breakfast.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Exploring Russia: Whether you are interested in history, nature, or architecture, there's much to see in Russia. For a good introduction to some of the most fascinating spots in the country, take a look at our article on the Best Places to Visit in Russia . For more on Russia's second-largest city and all it has to offer, check out our piece on the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in St. Petersburg .

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17 Top Tourist Attractions in Moscow

The capital of Russia is an incredible place to explore. Visitors to Moscow come away spellbound at all the amazing sights, impressed at the sheer size and grandeur of the city. Lying at the heart of Moscow, the Red Square and the Kremlin are just two of the must-see tourist attractions; they are the historical, political and spiritual heart of the city – and indeed Russia itself.

A fascinating city to wander around, stunning cathedrals, churches, and palaces lie side-by-side with bleak grey monuments and remains from the Soviet state. In addition to its plethora of historical and cultural tourist attractions, Moscow is home to world-class museums, theaters and art galleries.

Renowned for its performing arts, fantastic ballets and amazing circus acts, catching a show while in Moscow is a must. The wealth of brilliant restaurants, trendy bars, and lively nightlife means there is something for everyone to enjoy.

See also: Where to Stay in Moscow

17. Tsaritsyno Palace

Once the summer residence of Catherine the Great, the stunning Tsaritsyno Palace is now a museum-reserve. The architecture is magnificent and there is a lovely park surrounding it for visitors to explore.

Located in the south of Moscow, the palace was commissioned in 1775 and recent renovations mean its lavish interior looks better than ever before with its elegant halls and beautiful staircases.

The exhibits on display look at the life of the empress as well as the history of Tsaritsyno itself. The huge palace grounds are also home to some other delightful buildings with the elegant opera house and wonderful brickwork of the Small Palace being particularly impressive to gaze upon.

Starting out in 1935 as the ‘All-Union Agricultural Exhibition’, VDNKh has slowly morphed over the years into the fascinating open-air museum of today. Remarkably, over 400 buildings can now be found within its confines.

The huge park complex has numerous pavilions representing former Soviet republics on show, such as those of Armenia and Turkmenistan and the distinctive architecture of each of the buildings is always interesting to gaze upon. In addition to this there is the fascinating Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics which is dedicated to space exploration and the fun Moskvarium aquarium even offers you the chance to swim with dolphins.

With lots of eateries scattered about and numerous entertainment options such as horse-riding and zip-lining, there is something for everyone to enjoy; the Friendship of Nations fountain truly is wonderful.

15. Kremlin Armoury

One of the oldest museums in the city, the Kremlin Armoury has a wealth of treasures; highlights include the ornate Grand Siberian Railway egg, the historic Cap of Monomakh and the stunning Imperial Crown of Russia which often has a crowd of tourists around it, jostling to take a photo.

Once the royal armory, there are loads of fascinating objects on display. Perusing the many sabers, jewelry, armor and more is as interesting as it is educational and entertaining and the swords are so finely crafted that you’ll almost wish you could pick up one and wield if yourself.

Established in 1851, the museum is situated in the Moscow Kremlin.

14. GUM Department Store

Standing for ‘Main Universal Store’ in Russian, GUM is stunning. Its wonderful skylights and beautiful facades mean it doesn’t look out of place alongside its illustrious neighbors on Red Square.

With over 200 shops, boutiques and upmarket eateries inside, it is a shopaholic’s heaven and concerned partners will be glad to find more affordable options alongside luxury brands such as Dior and Prada.

The main department store in the city, GUM was opened in 1893. The stunning architecture makes it well worth a visit even if shopping isn’t your thing.

13. Moscow Metro

It’s not often that public transport looks like a work of art. So many stops on the Moscow Metro will astound visitors with their beauty and elegance.

Decked in marble and with frescoes covering the walls, the stations are amazing to gaze upon and are part of one of the longest metro systems in the world, with the first stations opened in 1935.

Using the metro is the quickest and easiest way to get around Moscow and braving the crowds of commuters is well worth it for the beauty all around you.

12. Arbat Street

An elegant yet lively street, Arbat is full of impressive architecture and was once a popular place to live for aristocrats, artists, and academics.

A historic place, it is down Arbat Street that Napoleon’s troops are said to have headed on their way to capture the Kremlin.

Nowadays, there are many cafes, restaurants, and shops, as well as various monuments and statues to former residents such as Alexander Pushkin who was reputed to be a lover of the Russian Empress due to his massive influence in court.

11. Novodevichy Convent

Drenched in history, the Novodevichy Convent is located in a striking building that was once a fortress. This captivating place is well worth visiting when in Moscow.

Founded in 1524, the convent houses four cathedrals; Smolensk Cathedral is the undoubted highlight due to its delightful 16th-century frescoes.

Wandering around the grounds is like stepping back in time. The Novodevichy Cemetery is where many famous leaders of the Soviet Union are buried, such as Yeltsin and Khrushchev.

10. Pushkin Museum

Despite its name, the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts actually has no connection at all to the famous poet other than that it was named in his honor after his death. A delight to visit, its extensive collection focuses on European art with masterpieces by Botticelli, Rembrandt, and van Gogh all featuring.

Sculptures, graphic art, paintings and more can be found in its beautiful galleries; various sections look at themes and epochs such as the Renaissance, the Dutch Golden Age, and Byzantine art.

Among the many highlights are the clownish characters which can be found in Cezanne’s Fastnacht (Mardi Gras) and the twirling ballerinas who look so elegant in Degas’ Blue Dancers. Picasso’s Young acrobat on a Ball is also well worth checking out for its interesting use of shapes and colors.

9. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This gorgeous Russian Orthodox cathedral is located on the banks of the Moskva River, just a stone’s throw away from the Kremlin.

The church as it stands today was consecrated in 2000, as the original church that stood here was destroyed on the command of Josef Stalin in 1931 due to the anti-religious campaign.

With its delightful golden dome, spires and dazzling white facades, the Christ the Savior Cathedral is stunning. The interior is just as captivating to wander around, with its beautifully tiled floors and impressive altar.

8. Lenin Mausoleum

Opened to the public in 1924, Lenin’s Mausoleum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Moscow. The red granite structure is located at the heart of the city in Red Square.

Lenin’s embalmed body lies in a glass sarcophagus; it is a somewhat eerie experience walking past the former leader of the Soviet Union but is well worth doing as you understandably can’t do it anywhere else in the world.

After visiting the mausoleum, head to the Kremlin wall right next to it for more graves of important communist figures such as Stalin and Brezhnev.

7. Tretyakov Gallery

Home to the most extensive and impressive collection of Russian fine art in the world, the State Tretyakov Gallery is definitely worth visiting when in Moscow for the wealth of amazing art pieces that it has on display.

Having started out as the private art collection of the Tretyakov brothers, there are now over 130,000 exhibits. Highlights include the iconic Theotokos of Vladimir which you will almost certainly recognise despite probably not knowing the name and Rublev’s Trinity which is considered to be one of highest achievements in Russian art.

An absolute must for art lovers, the State Tretyakov Gallery will delight visitors with all that is has to offer.

6. Kolomenskoye

Once a royal estate, Kolomenskoye is now a museum-reserve and lies a few kilometers outside of the city center. A captivating place to visit, there is a plethora of history on show and the site overlooks the Moskva River.

Consisting of four historical sites, there are extensive gardens for visitors to explore, as well as loads of interesting old buildings, the former village of Kolomenskoye itself and the impressive Palace of the Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich – once considered the Eighth Wonder of the World by contemporaries.

Among the many stunning sights, it is the brilliantly white Ascension Church that is the undoubted highlight – dating back to 1532.

5. Gorky Park

Lying alongside the Moskva River, the huge Gorky Park is a lovely place to visit. Its extensive gardens are home to numerous cultural institutions and visitors should definitely check out the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art and while the eclectic exhibits may not always feature such incredible sights as a balloon-covered rider on a zebra; they certainly always succeed in pushing back the boundaries of art.

Pop-up exhibitions and festivals can be found from time to time in the park itself and there is an open-air theatre and numerous eateries alongside a plethora of leisure activities.

Whether it’s cycling, table tennis or yoga that you are after or beach volleyball and rowing, Gorky Park certainly has it. In winter, there is a huge ice rink for visitors to enjoy.

4. Bolshoi Theatre

The Bolshoi Theatre is the main theater in the country. The amazing opera and ballet performances it has put on over the centuries go a long way in explaining Russia’s rich history of performing arts.

While the Bolshoi Ballet Company was established in 1776, the theater itself was opened in 1825. The glittering, six-tier auditorium is lavishly and decadently decorated; it is a fitting setting for the world-class performances that take place on its stage.

Spending a night watching a performance of such classics as The Nutcracker or Swan Lake at the Bolshoi Theatre is sure to be a memorable experience and the beauty all around you only adds to the sense of occasion.

3. Moscow Kremlin

This famously fortified complex is remarkably home to five palaces and four cathedrals and is the historic, political and spiritual center of the city. The Kremlin serves as the residence for the country’s president. It has been used as a fort, and this fact is made clear by its sheer size. The Kremlin’s outer walls were built in the late 1400s.

Under Ivan III, better known as Ivan the Great, the Kremlin became the center of a unified Russian state, and was extensively remodeled. Three of the Kremlin’s cathedrals date to his reign that lasted from 1462-1505. The Deposition Church and the Palace of Facets were also constructed during this time. The Ivan the Great Bell Tower was built in 1508. It is the tallest tower at the Kremlin with a height of 266 feet (81 meters).

Joseph Stalin removed many of the relics from the tsarist regimes. However, the Tsar Bell, the world’s largest bell, and the Tsar Cannon, the largest bombard by caliber in the world, are among the remaining items from that era. The Kremlin Armory is one of Moscow’s oldest museums as it was established more than 200 years ago. Its diamond collection is impressive.

The Kremlin’s gardens – Taynitsky, Grand Kremlin Public and Alexander – are beautiful. The Kremlin has also served as the religious center of the country, and there is a tremendous number of preserved churches and cathedrals here. The collections contained within the museums include more than 60,000 historical, cultural and artistic monuments. Those who enjoy the performing arts will want to consider attending a ballet or concert at the State Kremlin Palace. Completed in 1961, it is the only modern building in the Kremlin.

2. Red Square

Lying at the heart of Moscow, Red Square is the most important and impressive square in the city. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions due to its wealth of historical sights and cultural landmarks.

Drenched in history, the huge square is home to incredible sights such as the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s Mausoleum, among others. Consequently, it is not to be missed when in Moscow as it really is home to the city’s most stunning monuments.

It is here that many important moments in Russian history took place; the former marketplace has hosted everything from Tsar’s coronations and public ceremonies to rock concerts and Soviet military parades. Wandering around the massive square is a humbling experience and undoubtedly one of the highlights the city has to offer.

1. Saint Basil’s Cathedral

Located in the impressive Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral is gorgeous; its delightful spires appear as if out of a fairytale. The most recognizable building in the country, the cathedral is very much a symbol of Russia. No visit to Moscow is complete without having taken in its unique and distinctive features.

Ivan the Terrible ordered the cathedral’s construction in the mid-16th century, and legend holds that Ivan put out the architect’s eyes so that he would be unable to build another cathedral more glorious than St. Basil’s. Designed to resemble the shape of a bonfire in full flame, the architecture is not only unique to the period in which it was built but to any subsequent period. For various reasons, both Napoleon and Stalin wanted to destroy the cathedral but fortunately did not succeed.

Known for its various colors, shapes and geometric patterns, St. Basil’s Cathedral houses nine different chapels that are all connected by a winding labyrinth of corridors and stairways. On the lower floor, St. Basil’s Chapel contains a silver casket bearing the body of St. Basil the Blessed.

Throughout the cathedral are many beautiful murals, frescoes, wooden icons and other art works and artifacts. Outside the cathedral is a lovely garden with the bronze Monument to Minin and Pozharsky, who rallied an all-volunteer Russian army against Polish invaders during a period of the late 16th century known as the Times of Troubles.

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9 Great Places to Shop in Moscow

Moscow’s best shopping neighborhoods.

Moscow is a shoppers' paradise, with a huge range of places to shop from high street stores to sleek mega-malls to fun flea markets. Browse for stylish fashions along Kuznetsky Most, soak up some old-city charm while you shop on Arbat Street, or uncover unique designs and artwork at some of the newer, hip areas like Flacon Design Center.

While there's no shortage of exclusive stores around Moscow , there are also plenty of places to find classic Russian souvenirs including matrioshka dolls, fur hats and retro Soviet-era posters. Here are a few ideas on where to shop in Moscow that’ll satisfy the cravings of bargain hunters and brand-name aficionados alike.

Arbat Street

Top spot for souvenirs.

Stretching for about a kilometer through the historical center of Moscow, Arbat Street is one of Moscow’s oldest streets now lined with a host of bars, shops, cafes and restaurants. Explore the hidden side streets or just wander along Old Arbat to find a lively atmosphere of street artists and musicians performing for passers-by.

Visit early to avoid the crowds when the 18th century buildings shimmer in the morning sun, or go in the evening to see Arbat bathed in the light of its lovely street lanterns. Countless souvenirs are for sale here including amber jewelry, samovar tea sets and matrioshka dolls.

photo by Florstein ( CC BY-SA 4.0 ) modified

Kuznetsky Most and Stoleshnikov Lane

Walking street steeped in centuries-old glamor.

Kuznetsky Most is a stylish shopping street found in Moscow’s city center near Red Square. Since fashion-conscious Russian women were drawn here in the 18th century for its famed French tailors, Kuznetsky Most has retained an upscale aura.

The street’s lined with boutique shops selling designer clothing and jewelry, swanky restaurants, department stores, bookshops and wine bars. Fashion designers like Victoria Beckham are known to drop by to promote their new collections, while the nearby park is an artistic haven where it’s not uncommon to see live poetry readings and theatrical performances.

photo by Andreykor ( CC BY-SA 4.0 ) modified

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Big place for brand name labels.

Set along the Kuznetsky Most shopping area, TsUM is a century-old department store in an imposing Gothic Revival style building. With more than 70,000 square meters of retail space, TsUM is the largest department store in Eastern Europe. The latest fashions from many major brands are sold here including Louis Vuitton, Tom Ford, Dior, Fendi and Alexander McQueen.

Take a break from shopping at one of TsUM's trendy restaurants including Buro Tsum on the fifth floor, where in summer you can sip cocktails on the terrace overlooking Bolshoi Theatre and Petrovka and Neglinnaya streets.

Location: 2 Petrovka Street, Moscow, Russia

Open: Monday to Saturday from 10am to 10pm; Sundays from 11am to 10pm

photo by Ludvig14 ( CC BY-SA 3.0 ) modified

Kitai-Gorod and Tretyakovsky Proezd

Artsy and exclusive shopping area.

Kitai-Gorod is a charming district found east of the Kremlin that’s still bordered in parts by medieval city walls. Among the eclectic stores in the area are the art boutiques tucked away inside the Ulitsa Varvarka churches that sell Russian works of art, local handicrafts, ceramics and jewelry.

Wander to the north-west from the Kitai-Gorod metro station to find Tretyakovsky Proezd, a small walking street with an aristocratic vibe and elite brands including Prada, Bentley, Bulgari and Armani on display.

photo by xiquinhosilva ( CC BY 2.0 ) modified

Izmailovo Market

Bargain prices and local crafts.

Found near Partizanskaya Station east of central Moscow, the Izmailovsky flea market takes a bit of an effort to get to but the bargains and unusual finds here make it worth the trip.

This huge outdoor bazaar is one of the best places in the city for traditional Russian arts and crafts, with stalls selling matryoshka nesting dolls, lacquer boxes, Soviet-era memorabilia, handcrafted furniture, jewelry and antiques. You'll also find carpets from central Asia and stacks of used books. The market’s open daily but it’s best to go on the weekend since many shops shut down during the week.

Location: Izmaylovskoe Shosse, Moscow 105122, Russia (close to Partizanskaya Metro station)

Open: Daily from 8am to 9pm

Phone: +7 495 215-54-37

photo by deror_avi ( CC BY-SA 3.0 ) modified

Century-old shopping arcade of exquisite design

Set on the east side of Red Square, GUM shopping arcade has been a hive of Moscow shopping activity since it opened more than a hundred years ago. GUM offers a range of shops and boutiques over three floors in a palatial glass-domed building with a movie theater and plenty of dining choices.

More than 100 mid-range and upscale brands are sold here, and the mall’s elegant courtyard also hosts regular cultural events, fashion shows and exhibits. Take a rest from shopping at GUM’s beautiful fountain in the center of the complex.

Location: 3 Red Square, Moscow, Russia

Open: Daily from 10am to 10pm

Phone: +7 495 788 43 43

One of Europe’s largest malls

Found in the Aeroport District of Moscow, Aviapark is a giant of a mall with some 500 shops, restaurants and entertainment attractions set over six floors. In addition to several Russian and international fashion brands, there’s a good choice of stores for children including Adidas Kids, Mothercare and Lego.

Kids are also catered to with an ice-skating rink, trampoline park, escape rooms and gaming centres among the mall’s family-friendly activities. Aviapark’s aquarium is an impressive sight with its towering cylindrical tank full of colorful marine life.

Location: Khodynskiy Boulevard, 4, Moscow, Russia

Open: Daily 10am to 10pm (Friday and Saturday open till 11pm)

Phone: +7 495 644 45 44

photo by TastyPoutine ( CC BY-SA 4.0 ) modified

Flacon Design Center

Creative haven in a former perfume factory.

Formerly a dreary industrial site in the northern outskirts of the city, Flacon Design Factory is now a center for creative design, arts and culture. The buildings’ brown brick walls are now splashed with edgy graffiti art and there’s a lively vibe to the place with street performers playing live music and artists selling their wares in the open-air market.

Shops with locally-designed fashions and souvenirs, art studios, movie theaters and cafes are set over two levels, and the center plays host to many outdoor festivals and concerts.

Location: Bol'shaya Novodmitrovskaya Ulitsa, 36, Moscow, Russia

Phone: +7 495 790 79 01

photo by Flacon PR department ( CC BY-SA 4.0 ) modified

Moscow’s vibrant main street

Leading from the Kremlin north through central Moscow, Tverskaya Street is home to some of the world’s most expensive properties and the shopping here reflects the area’s exclusive cachet. Historically an important trade route for Moscow, the street has since transformed into a bustling wide avenue lined with regal stone buildings housing luxury brands, fashion labels, souvenir shops and restaurants.

Be sure to stop by Eliseyevskiy food store, the legendary purveyor of chocolates, caviar, cognac and more Russian delicacies in a grand 18th-century mansion with glittering chandeliers. Wander the side streets off Tverskaya for some more peaceful exploration of Moscow urban life.

photo by Skelanard ( CC BY-SA 4.0 ) modified

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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Welcome to Moscow

Home to the University of Idaho, Moscow (aka Fest City) is known for its lively celebrations and charming hometown vibe. Whether you’re exploring picturesque landscapes, rocking out at a music festival or indulging in mouthwatering local cuisine, this welcoming city offers an array of experiences for every style of adventurer. The only question is, where should you begin?

  Stay + Play

Looking for your ultimate basecamp? Take your pick of hotels in the heart of the action, cozy B&Bs and more.

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Pop into one of our local eateries and sample everything from burgers to bouillabaisse. Or, sip your way through Moscow’s craft beer scene and find an ale to cure your ails.

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If you’re searching for your next conference, business trip or company retreat destination, Moscow has it all. Boasting a variety of venues, tempting food and drink options and ample hotel accommodations, this town is sure to impress.

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Immerse yourself in cinematic magic at a film festival or enjoy family-friendly fun at the annual Renaissance fair. Mark your calendars and stay up to date with the latest happenings in Fest City.

Hunga Dunga Brewing presents Pie Train

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Trump’s trial is the latest chapter in the rich history of Lower Manhattan’s courts.

A cluster of downtown buildings has served as the borough’s “epicenter of criminal justice in New York since the 1830s,” said a lawyer who has led walking tours of Manhattan courthouses.

By Matthew Mpoke Bigg

• April 26, 2024, 1:47 p.m. ET

For a decade, Robert Pigott, a lawyer, has led walking tours of the courthouses of Manhattan, guiding visitors around landmarks where the city’s rich legal history has played out. Now the trial of Donald J. Trump has added a chapter to the story he gets to tell.

Mr. Pigott’s tours, which he runs in his spare time, revolve around a cluster of downtown buildings that are the borough’s judicial hub. For now, 100 Centre Street — the Manhattan Criminal Courthouse, where the former president’s case is being heard — is the focus.

But just down the street on Foley Square sits Manhattan’s most elegant courthouse building, New York’s Supreme Court, with its sweeping flight of 32 stone steps leading up to a series of imposing Corinthian columns. Other court buildings are dotted around nearby.

“The eyes of the nation and the world are trained on criminal court cases in New York County, whether it’s organized crime, Wall Street cases or federal cases,” Mr. Pigott said.

Mr. Trump’s trial is remarkable because it is the first time that a former American president has been criminally prosecuted. The defendant’s status as this year’s presumptive Republican presidential nominee adds a contemporary political dimension.

For Mr. Pigott, 64, who has written a book about the history of the city’s courthouses, the real significance is what it says about the status of a few blocks of Manhattan as a nexus. He pointed out that Mr. Trump’s civil fraud case and defamation case also both played out this year in courthouses within spitting distance of the criminal trial.

“Now, when I arrive at the expanse of Foley Square midway through the walk, I can point to something truly remarkable — three different courthouses where the same former U.S. president has been on trial,” he said.

Mr. Trump’s trial shows how politics, celebrity and the location of the court itself can reinforce one another to make a big story bigger. New York’s status as a media hub increases the spotlight during high-profile cases and the high-profile cases held over the decades have, in turn, made the city’s courts an attractive setting for fictional courtroom dramas.

In these buildings, a jury convicted Anna Sorokin for grand larceny in 2019 for posing as a German heiress to swindle wealthy New Yorkers — a case that almost by definition blurred fact and fiction. Naturally, the tale has since been turned into a series on Netflix.

The cluster is also where a group of Black and Latino teenagers, then known as the Central Park Five, were wrongly convicted in 1990 of raping a jogger — a case also rendered as a Netflix series — and where Mark David Chapman pleaded guilty in 1981 to murdering the musician John Lennon.

The New York Supreme Court building, a trial-level court, often serves as a symbol of the court complex. It featured prominently in the television show “Law and Order" and the 1957 courtroom film classic “12 Angry Men,” to cite just two examples.

Mr. Pigott, however, is drawn to the history of the legal system before the 20th century and how it evolved through its buildings. The first stop on the tours he runs is a sidewalk nearby with glass blocks embedded in it, through which it is possible to see the excavations of a courthouse built by the Dutch in the colonial era.

The authorities in New York built a judicial infrastructure in this part of Lower Manhattan starting mainly in the 19th century, when the area experienced significant gang violence, he said.

“This one-block radius has been the epicenter of criminal justice in New York since the 1830s,” said Mr. Pigott.

For all the drama associated with the Trump trial, the streets outside the criminal courthouse have generally been calm this week. Reporters and members of the public have lined up for entry to the courthouse. And on Thursday morning, Collect Pond Park across the street, which has been designated for protests, was empty. Its only occupants were some police officers and a few pigeons.

Matthew Mpoke Bigg is a London-based reporter on the Live team at The Times, which covers breaking and developing news. More about Matthew Mpoke Bigg

The Flourishing World of Central Park

This verdant tourist destination is a pleasure ground for locals, too..

36 Hours in Central Park:  With its endless trails, hidden nooks, museums and nearby night spots, the park is a hub for both thriving activities and where one can find  a more tranquil, timeless Manhattan .

Flaco’s Kingdom : Before his demise earlier in February , the Eurasian eagle-owl’s escape from the Central Park Zoo  and subsequent life on the loose  captured the public’s attention and hearts .

Shakespeare Hits the Road: To many people, Central Park in the summer equals Shakespeare in the Park. But this year, because of renovations at the theater traditionally hosting the productions, the show will step outside  the confines of the park.

Regreening in the Park: A construction project next to the North Woods, involves remaking a part of the park  that serves as a backyard for nearby blocks in East Harlem, where green spaces are sorely missing.

A Reporter’s Design: Ever wondered who designed one of Central Park? Read about the life of Frederick Law Olmsted , who helped create one of New York’s shining jewels.

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Sandakan needs a tourist information centre, says Elopura assemblyman

• Sabah & Sarawak

Wednesday, 24 Apr 2024

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Sabah state assembly passes new ocean thermal energy conversion enactment, sabah assembly passes three bills on last day of meeting.

KOTA KINABALU: An assemblyman says he's found himself stepping into the shoes of a tourist guide in Sandakan due to the absence of a tourist information centre to guide visitors to places of interest in the district.

Calvin Chong Ket Kiun (Warisan-Elopura) said the first thing tourists would do upon touching down in Sandakan was to find other tourist destinations apart from the conventional ones.

"I have been approached at the airport, and some have asked me to take them around. I suddenly became a tourist guide. It is fine, but to have an information centre would be helpful," he said during the question-and-answer session at the State Assembly sitting here Wednesday (April 24).

He also highlighted that the existing tourism packages did not have spillover effects on locals in the district.

"Foreign tourists usually opt for packages for convenience. They do not try out restaurants in town or do any activities outside their packages. So how does this benefit locals in Sandakan?" he asked.

Chong also questioned the Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry about its effort to promote tourism in Sandakan. Its minister, Datuk Christina Liew, replied that in the last three years, the ministry had implemented three tourism development projects costing about RM500,000, while the Tourism, Arts, and Culture Ministry had spent another RM1.89mil on its 10 projects in the district.

"These allocations are channelled towards physical infrastructures to enhance security, comfort and functionality of these basic tourism facilities for the benefit of our tourists," she said.

She added that issues pertaining to the information centre were under the jurisdiction of the district officers or municipal council presidents, who also act as the tourism sector heads in their respective areas.

"If you have any input from tourism players on how to better the tourism industry in your area, please reach out to the tourism sector heads so your views can be channelled to us," she said.

Tags / Keywords: Tourist Information Centre , Sandakan , Calvin Chong Ket Kiun ,

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