bugaboo vs nuna travel cot

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Maria Bendo

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I'm your average 20-something freelance writer who loves to share stories and opinions with anyone who'll listen. Or read, of course.

Table of Contents

About Bugaboo 

A new addition to the family is always exciting for any parent. But, there’s a lot of planning that goes into it. Between building cribs and buying diapers in bulk, it’s easy to forget things like how the baby’s going to get around once it’s here! That’s where brands like Bugaboo come in. 

Bugaboo is a Dutch company specializing in strollers, car seats, and other baby accessories . The brand was founded in 1996 by Max Barenbrug and his former brother-in-law, Eduard Zanen. Since then, they’ve garnered quite the notoriety, with over 433k followers on Instagram and publications in media outlets such as Forbes , CBS News , and Today’s Parent .

Their mission is to constantly innovate new “ purpose-driven,” high-quality designs that can help you bond with your tiny tot. This might be convincing some families, as they boast a 434k following on Instagram. They also have multiple global offices, but their main headquarters is located in Amsterdam. 

On the other hand, we have Nuna , another Dutch brand focused on designing products to help you cherish your moments with your little one. They’ve prioritized creating premium baby gear that’ll let you navigate life together.

Founded in 2007, their history and founder are unknown, but their equipment goes through rigorous testing before leaving their facilities. They’re also Global Organic Textile Certified, with sustainably sourced materials and socially responsible processes. They’ve also featured in Forbes , The New York Post , and NBC News , with 239k followers on Instagram.

If a new addition is on its way to your family, you’re probably thinking about the utmost essentials. So, which company will (literally) carry your tot into childhood?

My Bugaboo vs. Nuna review can help you find out. I’m going to look at a few things to consider, compare products, and more, to help you make an informed decision.   

What to Consider

Product range 

When choosing a baby gear brand, one of the things you’ll want to think about is the product range. For example, Bugaboo and Nuna have many products available, from car seats to strollers, but Nuna has a few more products like high chairs and bouncers. 

Safety features 

Both Bugaboo and Nuna advertise their innovative and safe designs regarding safety features.  

Materials 

Bugaboo materials undergo rigorous testing, and their fabrics consist of 50% recycled PET bottles. On the other hand, Nuna uses organic cotton, environmentally friendly merino wool, and is GOTS Certified. 

Design and durability 

Both brands advertise their Dutch-inspired designs that are minimal, functional, and exceptionally stylish. 

Accessibility 

You can find Bugaboo and Nuna on their respective websites and in stores like Nordstrom, Pottery Barn, and more. 

Bugaboo Turtle Air by Nuna vs Nuna Exec Car Seat Review

Now, in this Bugaboo vs. Nuna review, I’m going to compare some of their popular products. Both the Bugaboo Turtle Air and the Nuna Exec Car Seat can help get your little one from one place to another. 

The Turtle Air was made in collaboration with Nuna and is safe and lightweight, making it easy to carry from car to stroller. On the flip side, the Nuna Exec Car Seat keeps your tot comfortable and can follow them into childhood. 

Let’s get into a few highlights for each product. First, let’s look at the Bugaboo Turtle Air : 

• Compatible with Bugaboo strollers and easy to transport
• It comes with a smart visor for sun protection
• Made from merino wool which helps regulate temperature and is soft to the touch 
• Adjustable head support to accommodate a baby’s growth 
• Memory foam technology provides side-impact security
• 5-point harness that’s easy to unbuckle and keeps baby safe
• Well-rated among customers
• Financing options available

Now, onto the Nuna Exec Car Seat :  

• Designed with an adjustable leg rest to accommodate infancy to childhood
• Children can stay rear-facing for up to 50lbs 
• It can also switch from rear-facing to a forward-facing booster 
• Features soft merino wool – breathable and comfortable
• Completely steel frame with reinforced belt path 
• Flame resistant
• Side impact protection pods 
• It comes with a machine washable leg rest slipcover
• Removable infant head and body inserts
• Airplane certified

Both Nuna and Bugaboo car seats will help get your little one from point A to B. Bugaboo’s Turtle Air has a few more transport options as it’s compatible with other Bugaboo strollers.

On the other hand, the Nuna Exec Car Seat is great for the car, and, as I said, it can carry your new addition from the newborn stage all the way into childhood. Regardless, you’ll be getting safe, comfortable, and easily adjustable seats for any child.  

Bugaboo Fox 3 Stroller vs Nuna triv™ Stroller Review:

Next up in this Bugaboo vs. Nuna review, I’m talking about strollers. Of course, you won’t be spending all of your time with your family in the car. You’ve got to get outside and walk to where you’re going most of the time.

With an infant or toddler, having a stroller is essential to travel. The Bugaboo Fox 3 Stoller and the Nuna triv™ Stroller can help you out. They’re both maneuverable and can be compact during any of your adventures. Plus, they’re both designed to be lightweight, everyday companions. 

There are a few extra bonuses for both strollers, though. So, let’s look at the Bugaboo Fox 3 Stroller : 

• An all-terrain stroller with a smooth ride
• Four-wheel suspension gives a soft and light push 
• Ergonomically designed for a baby’s comfort and development 
• 5-point harness for baby’s security and your peace of mind
• Fabrics are water-repellent, durable, and soft
• Compatible with other Bugaboo car seats
• You can use it for children up to 4 years old
• It comes in different colorways and is super fashionable
• Additional storage in spacious basket 
• Financing options are available

Sounds pretty promising. Now, onto the Nuna triv™ Stroller : 

• Extremely easy to fold and perfect for city slickers 
• It comes with a magnetic buckle that automatically locks 
• The seat can face both ways
• All-wheel suspension and a one-touch brake
• 3-position recline options 
• Can hold an infant carrier with the included ring adapter 
• All-season seat 
• Height adjustable push bar
• Additional storage with the included basket and zipper pocket
• Sun canopy and rain cover keep your tot safe from the weather
• Carries up to 50bs 

Ultimately, both strollers will get you and your co-pilot to where you need to be. The Bugaboo Fox 3 Stroller can handle just about any surface, and it’ll still give your tot a smooth ride. The Nuna triv™ Stroller can also do the same but is more suited for urban city families. Either way, they can become compact and are perfect for travel and your little one’s safety and comfort. 

Bugaboo Changing Bag vs Nuna Diaper Bag Review

Here’s another thing that comes with baby territories: diapers. Of course, this Bugaboo vs. Nuna review knows that’s not the only thing you’ll be carrying around. So, you’ll need a reliable bag that holds all of your supplies while out and about.

I’ll be looking at the Bugaboo Changing Bag and the Nuna Diaper Bag to lay out all of the details for you. 

Both bags are sleek, minimal, and made with materials that are easy to clean. They also have multiple carry options that’ll make your busy day so much easier. 

First, I’ll look at the Bugaboo Changing Bag : 

• Water-repellent exterior and an easily wipeable interior 
• Two compartments to separate wet and dry items 
• It comes with a matching changing mat that’s easy to fold with one hand
• Features a subtle zipper pocket to keep your phone and an insulated bottle holder
• Easily attaches to Bugaboo strollers for convenience
• Stylish and doubles as a tote
• Good ratings

In comparison, these are features of the Nuna Diaper Bag : 

• Sleek design with leather and metal accents 
• It comes with an insulated bottle bag and a changing pad 
• 7 different mesh pockets and 2 elastic bottle straps 
• Magnetic front closure with a zipper top 
• Multiple carry options – can carry over the shoulder, crossbody, or as a backpack 
• Features a laptop or tablet sleeve (13 in)
• Breathable mesh back

So, both the Bugaboo and Nuna bags can handle your baby essentials. On the one hand, Bugaboo’s Changing Bag is water repellent , keeping it and your belongings from any potential spills or inclement weather.

It also features two different compartments to keep wet and dry items apart. This will especially come in handy when you’re walking around town with a clumsy toddler. 

Then, we have the Nuna, which converts into a convenient backpack and can even carry tablets when you’re on the go. But, it’s not clear if they have the same material capabilities. Still, both bags will be able to handle anything and will be super convenient for travel with their different features. 

Bugaboo vs. Nuna: Quality

This Bugaboo vs. Nuna review knows how important high-quality baby essentials are to new parents. When you’re handling such precious cargo, it obviously makes sense to prioritize such materials.

So, I did some digging to find information on both Bugaboo and Nuna’s materials and their processes. 

As I mentioned, Bugaboo products go through intense testing. Designers and engineers have spent years perfecting each item, ensuring that it strives beyond the industry standard. In addition, their materials are responsibly sourced, and their workers are compensated fairly, as evidenced in their Modern Slavery Statement. 

Additionally, they are constantly looking for ways to extend their products’ life. For example, they worked with Little Boomerang to help recycle their scrap metal into reusable shopping bags. Some materials are also made from 50% recycled PET bottles and are designed to withstand years of wear and tear. Plus, they can be easily serviced and cleaned. 

Regarding Nuna ’s quality standards, they use durable materials that comply with US federal and European safety standards. In other words, they don’t contain any harsh chemicals that could potentially harm your baby. They also use organic cotton on select items and, as mentioned, they’re Global Organic Textile Standard certified.

Basically, this ensures that the best practices are used when sourcing their materials. They also use environmentally friendly merino wool that naturally controls moisture. Their other green initiatives include manufacturing in an environmentally friendly factory that utilizes solar power, exhaust water treatment, and recycling programs that reduce plastic and packaging waste. 

Both Bugaboo and Nuna have a specific look, and both companies ensure that they’re using the best processes and materials for everyone involved. They also ensure that your little one’s future stays secure by remaining environmentally friendly and ethically responsible. 

Bugaboo vs. Nuna: Price & Value

When it comes down to it, money matters. This Bugaboo vs. Nuna review wants to make sure you’re getting gear that’s worth your buck. So I’m going to look at both companies’ prices and measure their value based on materials, feedback, and more. 

By now, we know that both Dutch companies are high-tech and well-designed. This will typically usher in a higher price tag. So, let’s take a look at our featured products’ costs: 

• Turtle Air: $449  
• Exec Car Seat: $700  
• Fox 3 Stroller: $1300
• Triv Stroller: $700  
• Bugaboo Changing Bag: $130  
• Nuna Diaper Bag: $230  

Generally, Nuna is more expensive than Bugaboo , with Bugaboo’s Fox 3 Stroller being an exception. The Fox 3 stroller definitely has a few more special features, including the all-terrain wheels. But, with a hefty price tag, it might not be as practical for newer parents. 

In addition, you can justify Nuna’s slightly higher price tag for certain items, thanks to their multiple certifications and materials used. It can also be explained by versatility like the Exec Car Seat, extending for your growing baby, toddler, and child. Besides, hand-me-downs are a part of family life. 

That being said, while doing research, I couldn’t find any other certifications for Bugaboo other than their transparency statement. But, you can chalk up their Fox 3 Stroller’s price to the all-terrain wheels and other convertible features. 

So, from this, it seems like Nuna might be the more expensive brand overall. But you are definitely getting what you’re paying for at both brands. Plus, with their transparency about manufacturing practices and other green initiatives, it’s apparent that they are fighting for a better environment for younger generations to grow in.  

Bugaboo vs. Nuna: What do Customers Think?  

If I didn’t look at customer feedback, this wouldn’t be a Bugaboo vs. Nuna review. Both companies are well-received on external sites. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find published ratings on Nuna’s website, but I did find some on Bugaboo. 

Our featured Bugaboo products have average ratings between 4 to 4.8 stars out of 5 . As I mentioned, customers on external sites rave about the brand, too, evidenced by their 4.6/5 stars from 563 ratings on Consumer Affairs. 

One reviewer on the main site writes:

“I have a few Bugaboo products. I have the Donkey, the Cameleon, and the canopy types. I love the products. I wish their costs were a little bit less, but they’ve been great products so far. When we got pregnant with our second kid, we went for the larger size… Bugaboo’s purchasing process was super easy, and their customer service has been super easy and great.”

Another reviewer from Trustpilot (where the brand holds a 3.5/5-star rating ) writes:

“The bugaboo 5 has been great in our experience, from newborn to nearly one year old. The foot muff was a good addition on the winter months and kept our son cosy. It’s handled rough terrain but mostly been great for getting around London, especially negotiating buses and the underground.”

To give you more of an idea of what consumers think, let’s go through a list of some other common comments: 

• Products are functional, simple, and stylish
• Lightweight, convenient designs 
• High-quality items and smooth stroller rides
• Fast shipping 
• Easy to follow assembly instructions 
• Good customer service 
• Products can last for years and can be handed down to others 

Well, things are looking good so far. As I said earlier, Nuna doesn’t publish reviews on their main site. But, I did find some on Trustpilot, where they have a glowing 4.8/5 star rating from about 164 reviews.

The company is also rated well on Influenster, praised by other baby gear retailers and some parenting blogs. 

Trustpilot users rave about the brand’s customer service, stating, “We bought a buggy and made very good use of it for three years. When a part became fault, customer service were really easy to communicate with and offered a replacement. Great product and great service all round.”

Another customer writes, “Contacted customer support about a part on our pram that had just worn out with time (not a product failure just a lot of use). The customer service team responded quickly, was very friendly and remedied it immediately. Such a great level of support!”

Here are some more of the most common comments among Nuna consumers: 

• Excellent customer service 
• Modern, sleek, lightweight designs
• Strollers move smoothly and collapse easily 
• Sturdy products
• Customers appreciate the high safety ratings 
• Easy to use car seats and strollers 

Overall, both brands get pretty good reviews from parents and guardians alike. They’re both praised for their high-quality materials and stylish gear. Plus, their customer service is often raved about, especially Nuna’s. 

That being said, this Bugaboo vs. Nuna review did find a few critical reviews, mainly as neither is accredited with the Better Business Bureau, each with numerous complaints. For example, some Bugaboo customers experienced quality issues. They discussed cheaper feeling materials and some unresponsive representatives.

When it comes to Nuna, some disgruntled consumers also had lousy customer service experiences. On the bright side, these reviews seem pretty rare and typically receive responses from representatives at both companies!

Bugaboo vs. Nuna: Promotions & Discounts

This Bugaboo vs. Nuna review knows that adding a new member to your family can be a bit pricey. So, I want to find the best deals so that you can save while preparing for your new addition. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find any promotion codes offered by the companies. 

But, Bugaboo does have a sale section with good deals for their older items. I think it’s safe to assume that you can sign up for their emails to receive the latest news and potential discounts. 

On the flip side, Nuna doesn’t have a designated sale section on their website. But there are parenting blogs and websites that recommend shopping at authorized retailers and smaller boutiques to get good deals. The Modern Mindful Mom also says that you might be able to find deals on Black Friday and during Nordstrom’s Anniversary sale in the summer. 

Since Nuna doesn’t have a sale section, this might deter some customers, while Bugaboo has a few more deals available. But, you’ll definitely be able to find some discounts at authorized retailers that carry both brands. I’d also try following their social media pages to stay updated on any promotions.  

Bugaboo vs. Nuna: Shipping & Returns 

Now, your baby gear has to get to you somehow. Even though I wish products were delivered by storks in one night, that isn’t the case. So, I’m going to take you through Bugaboo and Nuna ’s shipping and returns policies. 

I’ll start with Bugaboo: 

• Offer free shipping on all strollers
• If placed on a Friday, it will be processed on the following Monday
• The estimated delivery time is 5–7 days in the US
• They also offer standard and express shipping  
• Orders over $500 will require a signature 
• US orders are fulfilled by UPS
• Do not ship to military addresses
• Can deliver to select countries including Canada, the US, UK, Austria, Belgium, and more
• 90-day free returns policy 
• The product must be unused to be accepted for a return
• Refund processing can take 10–14 business days  

Next up are Nuna’s shipping and returns guidelines: 

• Free standard shipping for purchases made on Nuna’s website 
• Orders are fulfilled by FedEx and can take up to 10 business days to arrive 
• The company offers two-day shipping, and orders must be placed at 2 PM EST to ship on the same day 
• US site does not ship internationally 
• You can edit your information before your order ships by calling Nuna’s customer service team: (855) 686-2872
• Shipping taxes depend on your home state’s laws
• Customers cite fast shipping times 
• 60-day return policy
• Must be new and unused to be accepted 
• Returns are handled individually, and Nuna states that they can refuse or deny a refund or credit.  
• Strollers have an additional 2-year warranty which includes repair sets and replacement parts.
• Gear is also covered by a 2-year warranty , excluding infant car seats, the MIXX bassinet, and accessories. 

Both companies outline straightforward shipping and return policies. Bugaboo offers a more extended returns policy, giving the customer (and potential new parent) enough time with their item to decide if it’s right for them.

On the other hand, Nuna also has a generous returns policy. Even though they don’t offer international delivery on the US site, there are global websites that can fulfill orders for other countries. 

Overall, your stroller, car seat, or other accessories, will (hopefully) arrive at your door within a timely manner. Plus, if you have any issues, customers at both companies have noted that their customer reps will help you out in no time. 

Who Will You Shop With?

So, the big question at this point is: Who will you shop with? This Bugaboo vs. Nuna review has laid out all of the details for you, but you may still be stumped. That’s understandable. They’re both famous, high-tech brands that’ll be in the family for years to come. So, it’s basically an investment for your family. 

Bugaboo might be a good choice if you’re looking to spend just a little less. Their strollers might be pricey, but their car seats and other accessories are slightly cheaper than Nuna. They even have financing options available, which could be more convenient for new parents. Plus, with a sale section, Bugaboo is an excellent choice if you’re looking for some deals. 

On the flip side, we have Nuna. Their products are definitely similar in appearance, but Nuna has a few more certifications and awards to back them up.

Plus, with convertible products like the Exec Car Seat , you won’t have to invest in another seat if your family tree grows. Additionally, their products and customer service are highly well-rated among parents.

At the end of the day, Bugaboo and Nuna share similar aesthetics and inspiration. They even collaborated on a car seat together. While one might be pricier than the other, there’s no denying that they’re both high-quality brands that put you and your baby first. Choosing one will ultimately be up to you (and your budget!). 

Check out some related reviews you might find useful:

Strolleria Review

Wonderfold Wagon Strollers Review

Mockingbird Stroller Review

Bugaboo vs UPPAbaby Review

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Nuna Sena Aire vs Bugaboo Stardust (Not Sponsored Comparison)

Trying to decide between the Bugaboo Stardust or Nuna Sena Aire?

I purchased both of these popular pack and plays / travel cribs to put them to the test, and to determine what are the key differences between the Nuna Sena Aire and Bugaboo Stardust , and which is best for each type of family.

Key Takeaways

I compared the Bugaboo Stardust vs Nuna Sena Aire across 13 different evaluation criteria. The Nuna Sena Aire was the winner in 8 out of 13 categories, and the Bugaboo Stardust outperformed in 7 out of 13 categories.

Overall, the Nuna Sena Aire is more spacious, and may last longer for your child. It’s also the most breathable, suitable to hot climates or use during summer or a heat wave. The Sena Aire also uses non toxic construction, and is Greenguard Gold certified as low VOC and free from PFAS chemicals, fire retardant chemicals , and PVC ( phthalates ). The Sena Aire is of an average height, making it a good choice for parents and caregivers of all heights.

The Bugaboo Stardust has a much slimmer profile, making it a better choice as a bedside sleeper, in small spaces, or in small hotel rooms. It stands much taller than the Nuna Sena Aire, and neither the height of the top bar nor the carry bag design make it a good choice for shorter parents and caregivers. The Stardust has a higher quality carry bag, making it a better choice if you need to check it into a flight as checked luggage. Bugaboo also has a strong sustainability program, but the Stardust lacks many of the non-toxic credentials Nuna has.

Shop for the Nuna Sena Aire on Nordstrom or Pottery Barn Kids

Shop for the Bugaboo Stardust on Amazon , Nordstrom , or Target

Bugaboo Stardust vs Nuna Sena Aire

• Spacious design, will likely last longer for your child
• Excellent breathability
• Greenguard Gold certified and low VOC
• Free from PFAS chemicals, fire retardant chemicals, and PVC (phthalates)
• Machine washable mattress cover
• Average height, making it suitable for parents of all heights
• 360 degree visibility due to mesh design
• Narrow footprint makes it excellent as a bedside sleeper and in small hotels
• Sturdy carry bag more likely to stand up to abuse if you check it as luggage when flying
• Tall design, great for taller parents but less suitable for short parents
• Bugaboo has a strong environmental sustainability program

Play Yard Weight

Winner: Bugaboo Stardust

The Nuna Sena Aire weighs 20.8 pounds, when it’s not it bassinet mode, and the Bugaboo Stardust weighs 17.2 pounds.

Both the Sena Aire and the Bugaboo Stardust are considered fairly lightweight as far as traditional pack and plays go, although both are considerably heavier than the lightest lightweight travel cribs, such as the Phil & Teds Traveller (7.5 pounds), BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light (13 pounds) and the Guava Lotus Travel Cot (15 pounds).

Both products are lightweight enough to move around the house and throw in your car for a picnic in the park or a trip to a grandparent’s house.

Size and Dimensions

The Nuna Sena Aire is considerably bigger than the Bugaboo Stardust , but the Stardust is a much taller pack and play.

The Sena Aire measures 41.3″ long x 30″ wide x 29″ tall. Compare that to the Stardust, which measures 38.8″ long x 25″ wide x 33.5″ tall.

While the Stardust has a smaller footprint overall, it’s also considerably narrower than the Nuna Sena Aire. The Stardust is only 25″ wide, whereas the Sena Aire is 30″ wide. This makes the Stardust a better choice in small spaces, as well as narrow spaces, such as using it as a bedside sleeper instead of a crib , or in a small hotel room. Nuna also offers a narrower play yard suitable as a bedside sleeper: the Nuna Cove Aire Go .

• Best for Small Spaces: Bugaboo Stardust
• Most Spacious for Baby: Nuna Sena Aire
• Best for Shorter Parents and Caregivers: Nuna Sena Aire

Upper Weight Limit and Age Limitation

Winner: Nuna Sena Aire

The Sena Aire is good from birth until 15 pounds in the bassinet mode, or from birth until 30 pounds / 35 inches in height for the play yard mode.

The Stardust is good from birth until 19.8 pounds in the bassinet mode, or from birth until 33 pounds / 35 inches in height for the play yard mode.

While the Stardust has a slightly higher upper weight range for both the bassinet and the playard mode, Bugaboo lists the upper age limit for the Stardust as 2 years old. Because of the smaller footprint of the Stardust, I think 2 years old is realistic for this product, and can’t imagine older toddlers would be happy in here.

Nuna Baby doesn’t list a specific age range, but many pack and play manufacturers indicate their upper age range as up to three years old. Because it is slightly roomier, I can see some families would be able to use this up to three years old. However, you should discontinue using a pack and play as soon as the child reaches the height, weight and behavioral limits (whichever comes first).

For all play yards, you should also stop using bassinet mode when your baby can push themselves up on their hands or knees, and should stop using play yard mode once your child starts trying to climb out .

Ease of Folding and Unfolding / Setup

On my first try, it took me 32 seconds to setup the Bugaboo Stardust, including getting it out of the storage bag and getting it setup and safe for sleep. On my first try folding it away, and putting it back in the travel bag, it took me 1 minute and 12 seconds to get the Bugaboo Stardust completely disassembled and put away.

In the same test for the Nuna Sena Aire, it took me 1 minute and 34 seconds to set it up, and 1 minute and 16 seconds for a full tear down and put away.

To be clear, both of these products are extremely easy to setup and tear down. However, in a head to head test, the Bugaboo is considerably faster in my testing and experience, and is one of the few true pop up travel cots on the market.

Mattress Quality

The Nuna Sena Aire mattress is the hands down winner here. While both have a padded mattress that’s about 1″ thick, the Nuna Sena Aire’s mattress is one of the best quality pack and play mattresses I’ve seen in my testing.

What makes it unique is the removable, ventilated mattress panels. The panels themselves are rigid, with holes throughout for ventilation. Their rigidity ensures the mattress is firm enough for an infant, and it’s probably one of the firmest pack and play mattresses I’ve tested, without being uncomfortable (it has padding covering these rigid layers for comfort).

However, the panels are also removable. Once removed, the rest of the mattress can be thrown in the washing machine.

The Sena Aire’s mattress cover has ventilated mesh, and looks quite similar to Newton Baby’s 3D mesh structure on their mattress covers, designed for breathability.

While the Bugaboo Stardust mattress is also fine, it’s fairly standard as far as pack and play mattresses go, with nothing that stood out to me in testing.

Washability and Cleaning

Winner: Sena Aire

At first glance, the Stardust seems like the more washable of the two.

With the Stardust, you can remove the fabric from the frame and throw it in the washing machine, which is great for giving the whole thing a bit of a refresh after trips, illness or diaper leaks.

Unfortunately, however, there’s no removable mattress cover for the Stardust. And let’s be honest: when it comes to babies and young toddlers, it’s usually the mattress that bears the brunt of accidents, such as spit up or diaper leaks. As Bugaboo doesn’t make a waterproof mattress protector for the Stardust, it means you’re either stuck looking for a third party solution (which is against manufacturer’s safety recommendations, and is also hard to find given it doesn’t use standard sized sheets ), or you’ll simply have to deal with some mattress stains left over after spot cleaning .

Compare this to the Sena Aire. With this pack and play, you can’t remove the fabric from the frame, and it’s spot clean only.

However, the mattress itself is machine washable, and to me, this is gold. You simply remove the ventilated mattress panels, zip up the cover, and throw it in a delicate wash on cold. You don’t need to get a third party mattress protector, because the bulk of the mattress itself can be washed. And you don’t need to worry too much about stains, since the mattress cover is a deep black color.

To me, the washability of the mattress cover trumps washability of the outer fabric given the fact that mattresses are where messes happen the most often.

Bassinet Insert

The Bugaboo Stardust has a zip in bassinet. The Nuna Sena Aire uses a snap and clip system, without a zipper. Both feel very secure once installed correctly, and are easy to install and uninstall quickly when you need to make a change.

Both also allow you to fold the pack and play frame and store it in the storage bag with the bassinet attached. This is fairly unique among pack and plays – typically you need to remove the bassinet for proper tear down and storage.

The Nuna Sena Aire has a slight leg-up over the Stardust bassinet due to the mesh floor, offering better ventilation and breathability, especially when the Aire’s ventilated mattress is added.

Travel Bag / Storage Bag Quality

In a direct comparison between the included storage bag for the Bugaboo Stardust vs Nuna Sena Aire, the Stardust travel bag is the hands-down winner.

The Stardust’s travel bag is made from a much thicker fabric, similar to the material on a good quality backpack. In contrast, the Aire’s travel bag uses fairly thin fabric, and I could see it ripping easily if put up to any level of abuse, such as checking it as checked luggage on an airline.

However, I find the closure system on both somewhat lacking for heavy duty use, such as sending as checked luggage. The Sena Aire has a drawstring enclosure to the carry case that I’m worried wouldn’t stand up well to airline transport. The Bugaboo Stardust’s velcro enclosure seems slightly more secure, but I’d prefer if both had a sturdy zipper enclosure.

Use as a Portable Travel Cot

As a true travel crib, I think both are lacking compared to the lightest weight and best travel cots on the market: the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light and the Guava Lotus , as well as the Phil & Teds Traveller to a lesser extent.

Both the Sena Aire and the Stardust are considerably heavier than these other travel cots, and they’re both more awkward to carry.

I think both are a great choice for trips around town, or longer road trips where you have your own car.

However, neither are awesome for airplane travel (the dimensions of the Stardust carry bag are borderline for standard-size checked luggage, and the Sena Aire only has a drawstring enclosure to the bag).

I also wouldn’t want either with me if I was city hopping through Europe or going on a long trip through multiple destinations.

If I had to decide between these two as the best true travel crib, I think the Stardust wins by a hair, due to the thicker and more durable fabric of the carry bag, and the fact that it’s great in small spaces. I’d happily take the Stardust with my on a cross-country flight to see friends and family, if we didn’t plan on moving around locations too much. I also think it’d be suitable for a resort trip in the sun.

However, if I was planning a bigger trip that required more movement between locations or multiple flights, I’d choose either the BabyBjorn or the Guava travel cribs (and possibly the Phil & Teds , if weight was the most important factor, such as for a backpacking trip).

Additional Accessories

The Bugaboo Stardust is fairly basic as far as pack and play accessories available, offering only the bassinet attachment (which is included).

The Sena Aire has an optional changing table attachment, putting it more in line with other premium play yards meant primarily for home use, such as the 4moms Breeze Plus , which comes standard with a changing station.

In terms of travel accessories, neither offers an insect net, which I’d love to see as an option in future iterations, assuming they’re able to do so safely.

Nuna Baby is a market leader in offering chemical free baby gear, and the Sena Aire is Greenguard Gold certified and free from fire retardant chemicals and PVC (a source of phthalates). It also comes with an Oekto-Tex certified sheet.

Finally, the Sena Aire is free from PFAS chemicals, which is another win for parents who want to keep harmful chemicals away from their little ones.

Final Thoughts

Both the Nuna Sena Aire and the Bugaboo Stardust are great choices for a pack and play, and which one your choose will depend on your specific needs and how you plan on using them.

Overall, I think the Nuna Sena Aire has a leg up over the Stardust due to being slightly bigger, easier to clean and with a better quality mattress, super breathable, and non-toxic.

However, the Stardust is a great option for families who need that narrow footprint for a small space, or if you plan on checking it in for a flight.

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• Baby & kids

Best travel cots 2023: Comfortable cribs for babies and toddlers

• Catherine Hufton
• Chris Martin

Travelling with your baby? Ensure everyone enjoys a good night’s sleep with the best travel cots

If you’ve recently had a baby, then the thrilling thought of travelling anywhere, let alone abroad, is precisely why you began your search for the best travel cot. Buy the right one, and you’ll be journeying once more, on UK holidays or overseas, visiting relatives overnight, or dropping off your baby to a friend while you and your partner enjoy a much-needed date night. For all those scenarios, a good-quality travel cot guarantees that your baby gets a comfortable night’s sleep.

Investing in a good-quality travel cot needn’t cost a fortune, however. How much you spend will depend on your requirements: do you need an all-singing, all-dancing cot; or a simple pop-up model that’s easy to use?

These days, many hotels and holiday homes supply cots; but buying your own means you can be confident in its quality, and your baby will be comfortable and relaxed in their own familiar cot, even when they’re in new surroundings.

You’ll find our top picks in the At a glance list below followed by a handy explanation of all the key features to look out for in our buying guide. If you want a little more information before buying, then you’ll find a wider selection of bite-size reviews a little further down the page.

READ NEXT: The best prams to buy

Best travel cot: At a glance

• Best lightweight travel cot: Silver Cross Slumber | £165
• Best travel cot for value for money: Joie Excursion | £190
• Best luxury travel cot: BabyBjörn Travel Cot | £249
• Best budget travel cot: Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot | £37

How to choose the best travel cot for your child

There are some key questions to consider when buying a travel cot. Obviously, it needs to be appropriate for the age and size of your child, but you’ll also want to take note of how portable it is, how quickly it can be assembled – and how much you want to spend.

Are travel cots suitable for newborns?

Most travel cots will be just fine for newborn infants, but you may prefer to get a smaller bassinet that’s specifically designed for young babies. This is because it’s easier to put down a baby in a higher bassinet – babies develop what’s known as the Moro reflex, which causes their arms to jump if they think they’re being dropped; this could be felt if placing them lower down into a travel cot. In addition, a bassinet feels more enclosed and cosy.

You can also now pick up bedside cribs that can double up as travel cots. As you’d imagine, these will be more expensive, but it does mean you’re buying just one item rather than two.

Can a travel cot double as a playpen?

Indeed. Spending a little more on a travel cot that doubles as a playpen will increase its use, delivering value for money. Look for models that have four, rather than two, mesh sides to give you and your baby a better view. A travel cot can also function as somewhere safe to put your crawling, or walking, whirlwind while you grab a snack or go to the loo.

READ NEXT:  The best baby cot to buy

What else do I need to consider?

Make sure you have all the necessary accoutrements. All the travel cots on our list are supplied with a mattress, but sheets aren’t included. You could use a pillowcase, but you may prefer a fitted sheet, and this may be available as an optional extra.

How we test travel cots

At Expert Reviews, we know that not all products are created equal, nor can they be judged on price and brand alone. This is the reason we test every product we recommend, so we can get first-hand experience of how it performs in real life. To put together this roundup of the best travel cots, each model has been assembled by the reviews, and out through its paces with their own children. As well as considering the age and size of child for which each cot is suitable, we consider how portable it is, how quickly and easily it can be assembled, and how much it costs. We also judge the comfort of each mattress by considering how well a child has slept on them, along with the overall design. At the end of each review, you’ll find a quick-view set of details including the age range for which a cot is suitable, its weight, assembly time and cleaning instructions.

READ NEXT: The best baby toys to buy

The best travel cots you can buy in 2023

1. bugaboo stardust: best travel cot for comfort and convenience.

Renowned, and highly regarded, for its range of car seats and stylish strollers (you can read more about these in our best pushchair guide ), Bugaboo recently branched out with its first travel cot: the Bugaboo Stardust. It’s pricey, just like the rest of the Bugaboo range, but that’s the only negative. It tops our list of the best travel cots because it combines style, function, and comfort in ways we haven’t seen before.

First – and this is a gamechanger – it “pops” open, in the same way that a pop-up tent would, and similarly folds down in seconds at the touch of a button. It can also be folded and unfolded without removing the mattress, and the buttons are sensibly and safely positioned out of reach of your child.

While many travel cots either come without a mattress or ship with a thin, uncomfortable bit of material, the Bugaboo Stardust comes with a built-in, multi-layered mattress that’s lightweight and comfortable. It can be raised via a zip-in bed insert, and this transforms the cot into a bassinet that’s perfect for newborns or younger babies.

The pop-up design means that there’s no fiddly assembly required. There are no special techniques to master, nor do you have to rely on separate sections all clipping and locking into place. It folds down into one piece that’s carried in a Velcro-closing bag that’s also included in the box.

Factor in all of its features, and the included extras, and the £225 price doesn’t seem quite so extortionate. In fact, we don’t think you can really put a price on just how easy and quick the Stardust is to use.

Key features – Age range: 0-24 months; Weight: 6.7kg; Cleaning: Hand-washable fabric; Time to assemble: 1 second

Check price at Boots

2. Silver Cross Slumber: Best lightweight travel cot

Price when reviewed: £165 | Check price at Silver Cross

Silver Cross’s Slumber travel cot is contemporary and lightweight, with a pop-up design that can be assembled in seconds. It now comes with the newborn insert that sits at bed height and can be used with or without. This cot looks great, so we had no issue having it out in our living room for downstairs naps through a period of some noisy building work being carried out. Plus, it also doubles up as a great playpen, featuring a padded top rail and zip-down side.

Let’s be honest, babies don’t always sleep particularly well in travel cots, but we were pleasantly surprised during testing, as baby enjoyed a restful couple of nights on a recent trip to the grandparents. The Silver Cross Slumber is lightweight, too, so would be ideal for taking on holiday to create somewhere safe for baby to play in a villa or hotel room.

Key features – Age: 0-3 years; Weight: 7.7kg; Cleaning: Sponge clean; Time to assemble: 5 minutes

Check price at Silver Cross

3. Tutti Bambini CoZee: Best travel cot for style

The Cozee Luxe is the latest update on Tutti Bambini’s Cozee bedside crib . Slightly bigger, it comes with more premium finishings than the original. It’s beautifully made, featuring soft quilted sides, a cotton lining, and sheer mesh sides that will keep baby visible at all times. It also has gold-tone-tipped walnut legs that add to its luxury finish.

The side can be easily zipped down so you can lift baby in and out of the bed for feeds during the night, or zipped up during nap times. The lining can also be removed and washed in the machine, which is always handy with a newborn baby.

Assembly proved quick and easy: it probably took us no more time than the 60 seconds suggested by the brand. This feels like a quality cot that we would be more than happy to have as a permanent by-the-side bed; it doesn’t feel at all flimsy in the way some travel cots do. If your baby regularly stay at the grandparents or a friend’s house, this would be a lovely option to keep out permanently.

Key features  – Age range: 0-6 months; Weight: 11.4kg; Cleaning: Inner lining and mattress cover are machine washable; Time to assemble: 60 seconds

Tutti Bambini CoZee® Bedside Crib/Co-Sleeper with Breathable Mesh Window, Travel Bag and Easy Fold (Oak and Charcoal)

4. nuna sena aire: best travel cot/playpen hybrid.

Nuna’s solution is more expensive and heavier, but comes with plenty of great features and more spacious dimensions of 103 x 76 x 73cm (LWH) – which means there’s more room to sleep and play.

The zigzag leg-folding design is super easy to use; folding it up is particularly satisfying, requiring a simple lifting of the strap in the centre of the cot. Like magic, it folds up into a very compact size, although you do have to wrap the mattress around the outside before putting it all in the carry bag.

The stylish cot is available in two colours, Charcoal (pictured) or Frost, and features an “Advanced air design”, including mesh sides to ensure airflow is optimal and safe. It’s sturdier than most, with skid-proof feet and padded edges.

Suitable from birth, the raised bassinet mode is super useful and can be quickly unzipped when you want to move the mattress to a lower position. The mattress itself sports a triple-layered mesh design and the internal boards are removable, so that the cover can be machine-washed and dried.

Key details – Age range: Birth to 15kg; Weight: 12.3kg; Cleaning: Spot-clean, air-dry mattress cover is both washing machine and dryer safe; Time to assemble: 1 second fold/unfold

5. Joie Excursion: Best travel cot for value for money

It isn’t the most compact, lightweight or easy to put together model in this list, but the Joie Excursion Change & Bounce gets a special shout-out for offering great value for money. In addition to the sturdy, well-built travel cot itself, this good-looking setup comes with a full-size bassinet (that clips on and off easily), a changing table and a bouncer, all included in the price. What’s more, the bouncer can be used either on top of the cot or standalone, as can the changing mat.

As with all of Joie’s baby products, the Excursion Change & Bounce is highly practical. Although a little fiddly to set up and use, once you’ve mastered it, you’ll wonder how you ever did without the added extras. The travel cot itself sports an ultra-secure frame with exposed tubing, plus two built-in wheels to help you easily move it around a room. A mesh lining on all four sides means the Change & Bounce can double up as a playpen, plus it has an elevated, draught-resistant base, and comes with a carry bag for storage.

On the side of the cot is a sound and light attachment that vibrates. It plays five classical lullabies and five nature sounds, plus there’s a nightlight that offers three brightness settings. The bouncer adds a toy bar with two soft toys and a five-point harness. We’ve found ourselves using the BabyBjörn for the odd night away and this fantastic travel cot for longer holidays.

Key features –   Age range: 0-4 years; Weight: 16.49kg; Cleaning: Hand-washable fabric; Time to assemble: 5 minutes

6. BabyBjörn Travel Cot: Best luxury travel cot

BabyBjörn gear isn’t cheap, and the fitted organic sheet adds an extra £20 to this already pricey travel cot. But if you’re willing to pay, it won’t disappoint. The travel cot takes mere seconds to assemble: the legs drop and lock as you open it, after which the mattress drops in.

The mattress is thick and soft, it’s fully washable and it looks good, too. Available in two colours, the mesh sides ensure good ventilation for baby and all-round visibility for parents. We bought this travel cot on the premise that once our little one started roaming around, it would make a safe playpen for him, too. The angle of the legs deliver good stability, even if your toddler leans on the travel cot’s sides as he grows.

One slight downside is the length of the drop when placing your baby into the cot at bedtime. It isn’t a huge problem, but note that this travel cot doesn’t come with a bassinet attachment – so, if you’re short, placing a 10kg child down into it can prove tricky. This isn’t a reason not to buy this travel cot, just something to consider.

Key features – Age: 0-3 years; Weight: 6kg; Cleaning: Machine-washable fabric; Time to assemble: 15 seconds

Check price at BabyBjörn

7. Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot: Best budget travel cot

This may not be the lightest or most attractive travel cot here, but it does the job for a fraction of the cost of other models. It does come with its own mattress, although some parents may prefer to buy an additional mattress (around £20) since the one included is quite thin. Setting the cot up and packing it away again can be a bit of a challenge – make sure you follow the instructions carefully – but the sturdy, steel-framed design is reassuringly stable once erected.

There are no bells and whistles here; just the cot, a mattress and a bag. You’ll need to pick up a sheet for the mattress, too, which is available to buy for around £13. If you’re not someone who will be travelling too often with baby, or are on a tight budget, this cot will serve its purpose.

Key features – Age: 0-3 years; Weight: 8.5kg; Cleaning: Sponge clean; Time to assemble: 1 minute

Red Kite Black Sleep Tight Travel Cot

Bugaboo vs Nuna: A Deep Dive Comparison After Testing Both Brands as a Parent

As a mom of two young kids, I‘ve spent my fair share of time researching, testing and comparing high-end baby gear brands. We ultimately relied on products from both Dutch companies Bugaboo and Nuna through the infant and toddler years.

While on the surface, Bugaboo and Nuna share strong reputations for quality craftsmanship and clever design, small differences set them apart. Here‘s my hands-on assessment after taking multiple strollers, car seats, and other accessories for a spin across two kids.

At a Glance: Bugaboo vs. Nuna

||Bugaboo|Nuna| |-|:-|:-| |Year Founded|1994|2007| |Known For|Modular strollers|Rotating & convertible baby gear| |Price Range|$$-$$$$|$$$-$$$$$| |Key Products|Strollers, car seats, bassinets, accessories|Strollers, car seats, high chairs, baby bouncers, accessories | |Safety Ratings|Exceed international standards|NHTSA ease of use: 4/5 stars| |Sustainability|50% recycled fabrics, zero production waste |GOTS organic certification, reduced plastic waste|

While the table above summarizes some core differences, let‘s analyze five key factors parents should weigh when picking between these two brands.

Key Factor #1: Product Range and Family Growth

Out of the gate, Nuna offers a wider span of products like high chairs, bouncers and bassinets that appeal to parents looking for an all-in-one baby gear solution. Meanwhile, Bugaboo zeroes in almost exclusively on strollers plus complementary car seats and accessories.

However, Bugaboo holds an advantage in modularity – their stroller frames adapt across different seats, bassinets and add-ons to truly grow with your family. The Nuna MIXX stroller comes close with a rotating, reversible seat but can‘t expand seat numbers like some Bugaboo models.

The Winner: Draw

Bugaboo for maximum stroller flexibility over years, Nuna for covering more baby product categories under one trusted brand. Choose based on what matters more to your family.

Key Factor #2: Safety and Quality

Both Bugaboo and Nuna reinforce rugged yet lightweight aluminum frames with durable fabrics that withstand heavy use over years. Their attention to detail and protective safety features also help explain their premium price points.

From an independent testing perspective, Nuna car seats edge out Bugaboo with superior ease-of-use ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This comprehensive evaluation analyzes everything from adjusting harness straps to brake pedal access.

The Winner: Nuna

While all Bugaboo and Nuna gear meets or surpasses safety regulations in the US and EU, Nuna‘s stellar independent ratings across car seat ergonomics specifically is reassuring for parents.

Key Factor #3: Eco-Friendliness and Sustainability

As environmentally-conscious Dutch brands, Bugaboo and Nuna aim to mitigate their impact through responsible sourcing, production and distribution choices:

• Bugaboo constructs textiles from 50% recycled PET plastic in their iconic stroller fabrics. They also recycle 100% of metal scraps from manufacturing.
• Nuna has achieved stringent Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certification for an array of products. This demands environmentally-friendly processing from raw materials through manufacturing.

In this arena, Nuna again pulls slightly ahead with their third-party organic verification. Their wider use of eco-friendly yet durable materials like merino wool also stands out.

Nuna‘s GOTS status and rigorous material standards give them the edge in sustainability. Both brands still demonstrate eco-conscious practices though.

Key Factor #4: Quality and Craftsmanship

Bugaboo and Nuna command premium price points in exchange for exceptional quality that lasts through multiple kids. Across reviews, both earn widespread consumer praise for durability and craftsmanship.

Through my first-hand testing, I will say Nuna carries a slight edge when it comes to finesse and detailing. Even their car seats integrate luxe leather and metal touches absent on Bugaboo models. Small perks like dream drape fabrics and magentic harness holders demonstrate their UX obsession.

However, Bugaboo offers more customization and modular add-ons that also speak to quality design. Their tailored approach fanatical about function deserves recognition too.

Trying to declare one brand universally "better" in this category proves tricky. Bugaboo arguably leads in custom-fit ergonomics while Nuna perfects details through a luxury lens. Overall quality and workmanship impress across both lines.

Key Factor #5: Price and Value

With premium materials, safety testing and responsible manufacturing, Bugaboo and Nuna jelly bean seat command higher prices than mass market baby brands. But what about value for money within their high-end niche?

On pricing alone, Bugaboo offers more affordable options for parents shopping on a budget. Their strollers start closer to $700 compared to $900+ for most Nuna models. Add-ons like car seat adapters and bassinets cost less too.

However, Nuna products earn exceptional ratings and reviews that rival Bugaboo‘s. And clever designs like their rotating MIXX stroller, modular high chair or rotating infant seat add functionality to justify higher costs.

Bugaboo for budget-conscious shoppers, Nuna for spicing up usefulness even at premium prices. But both deliver outstanding quality relative to their price points.

Battle of the Bestsellers: Bugaboo vs. Nuna Strollers and Car Seats

Now that we‘ve compared the brands across key factors, let‘s pit two of their most popular strollers and infant car seats head-to-head:

Bugaboo Fox 2 vs. Nuna MIXX Next Strollers

Bugaboo Fox 2

• All-terrain and city strolling
• Customizable from birth with bassinet
• Suspension and large wheels for smooth ride
• Medium 23 lb weight
• ~$1500+ price tag

Known for bulldozing through any environment in comfort, the Fox 2 caters especially to families seeking robust versatility. We adored the cushioned ride and easily configurable seat.

However, the weight and girth limit urban maneuverability and public transportation use unless you invest in compact transport bags.

Nuna MIXX Next

• Reversible rotating seat
• Automatic fold lock
• Compact fold with seat attached
• Feather-light 17 lb chassis
• $1300+ MSRP

Nuna‘s MIXX Next wows with a clever one-hand fold compact enough for crowded subways and taxis even with the seat on. We also loved spinning the seat rear-facing to parent-face without removing baby.

The softness of certain seat inserts wasn‘t as durable over time compared to Bugaboo. But overall, this stroller masters urban mobility and adaptable configurations parents need.

The Winner?

While the Fox 2 offers all-terrain superiority, the MIXX Next proves more functional for life in the city. Choose based on your lifestyle and use cases. Both perform fantastically as premium strollers.

Bugaboo Turtle Air by Nuna Car Seat vs. Nuna PIPA Next Car Seat

Bugaboo Turtle Air by Nuna

• 5-point harness with side impact protection
• Soft, self-wicking merino wool
• Attaches directly to Bugaboo strollers
• 4.6 out of 5 star average rating

This convertible car seat co-designed by Bugaboo and Nuna keeps babies cozy and secure on the go. The merino wool touches make it exceptionally breathable through warmer months.

We did find the harness adjusted a little trickier than the PIPA for newborn sizes. But it transitions beautifully to support growing toddlers with a taller shell and wider seat.

Nuna PIPA Next Car Seat

• Steel frame with energy absorbing foam
• Shoulder fold design for snug fit
• Breathable mesh fabric
• $450+ price tag
• 4.7 out of 5 star average rating

The PIPA wows with aircraft-level steel protection and clever magnetic buckles that make securing fussy babies simpler. The foldable shoulder panels also hug smaller babies super snug.

We noticed less airflow from the padding during hot summer trips compared to the Turtle Air. But the PIPA undeniably provides outstanding safety and quality design.

Both the Nuna PIPA Next and Bugaboo Turtle Air by Nuna supply excellent protection and comfort at fair prices. The Turtle Air works especially well for frequent in-and-out of strollers thanks to attachments. Meanwhile, the PIPA better accommodates premature babies and newborns with foldaway shoulder pads.

Additional Review Roundup: Diaper Bags, Cribs and More

Beyond strollers and car seats, Bugaboo and Nuna supply luggage, cribs, high chairs and other nursery essentials. Here‘s my hands-on assessment of their offerings in other top baby product categories:

Diaper Bags

Bugaboo Changing Bag

• Dual wet/dry compartments
• Insulated bottle storage
• Stroller hooks for easy attachment

Nuna MIXX Bag

• Modern backpack or messenger bag
• Fits laptop and tablet sleeve
• Vegan leather details

Both offer sleek silhouettes blending form and function. The Bugaboo changing bag provides better internal organization while Nuna‘s does more as a handbag/work bag too.

Nuna Travel Crib

• Easy 30 second setup
• Greenguard Gold air purifying certification
• Soothing side zip entrance

This clever crib balances portability andpracticality beautifully thanks to the hyper-fast setup and dual entries. We wish Bugaboo carried a travel crib option to compare directly.

High Chairs

No Bugaboo Option

Nuna High Chair

• Converts to toddler seat
• Easy-clean splatter shield
• Folds compactly for storage

Another baby essential category Bugaboo skips entirely is high chairs. Nuna‘s adjustable and long-lasting high chair offers outstanding quality for the price point.

Beyond core gear, Nuna extends their quality craftsmanship and innovative ethos across more nursery and travel products for babies through early childhood.

Couple this wider range with consistent 5 star reviews and focus on value retention through convertibility, and they edge out Bugaboo‘s more limited accessory lineup. The lack of a travel crib offering from Bugaboo stood out in particular.

Still, both brands create versatile, durable quality products sure to last across multiple kids. Shop with confidence from either.

Final Verdict: Which Premium Dutch Brand Wins?

So with everything on the table, which company – Bugaboo or Nuna – will earn your investment?

If modularity matters above all…go Bugaboo

The ability to adapt stroller frames across bassinets, seats, car seats and more gives Bugaboo unmatched flexibility from newborn through preschool. Their lower price points increase accessibility too.

If clever convertible designs win your heart…pick Nuna

From rotating infant seats to transformer high chairs, Nuna obsesses over gear spanning every baby stage. And they often integrate luxe details absent on Bugaboo models at similar price points.

At the end of the day, both Dutch brands supply exceptionally engineered, heirloom-quality baby gear designed to last. Focus on lifestyle factors and specific product needs for your family to determine the right fit. And take comfort knowing whichever premium products you choose are built to stand the test of time and inspire adventures for years to come!

I‘m curious if this detailed comparison helped your decision making at all. Feel free to drop any remaining questions in the comments below!

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BEST TRAVEL CRIBS OF 2022

Travel cribs are a surprisingly hard area of baby gear to nail down. In theory you could just pick the lightest one or maybe the longest lasting. But travel cribs are used for more than travel so picking the right one isn’t so simple. Let’s talk more about the best travel cribs for 2022/2023 and where each excels!

What's the best travel crib? 

When you are thinking about travel cribs, consider these important points:  

Where will you use your travel crib? Travel cribs are often used as a secondary sleeping space in the living room or office so you can hear and see our baby as you go about the day at home. With this getting used daily you’re almost never going to fold/unfold it so choosing a travel crib with heavier or larger dimensions isn’t such a bad thing. The Nuna Sena Aire is one of the sturdiest travel cribs that can handle being knocked around.   Non-work related Air Travel : Post-baby you’ll fly less often than pre-baby. This means you could be spending a lot of money for a plane-friendly travel crib that you almost never use. If you flew more than four trips each year, maybe you have annual trips to several family and friend groups, you’re definitely going to need the lightest option: maybe jump right to the 11lb   Aeromoov Instant Travel Cot .   Car travel and trunk size : Car travel is easy to work around with travel cribs! Regardless of trunk size, there’s a travel crib that will work for you. The Bugaboo Stardust and   Aeromoov Instant Travel Cot both fold almost flat for the smallest of cars. The other cribs fold up to be close in size, so families with mid-size and larger cars shouldn’t spend too much time worrying about size and should focus on the favorite features. Frequent visits to the grandparents : If you have a second house the baby will spend weekly/bi weekly trips to, consider getting a travel crib just for this house. Folding the crib, carrying/loading it into the car, and carrying it into the house, gets old fast. And you’re going to do the whole thing again when you head home. It’s a lot to do on top of also having an infant with you, and it leaves the door open for forgetting or damaging your travel crib. Do your future self a favor and leave a quick collapsing crib at the grandparents that they can store into a closet, like the UPPAbaby Remi with its snappy fast fold, slim profile.

Bugaboo Stardust Travel Crib 2021 | 2022

$339 | 17.2 lbs | Max: 33 lbs or 35 in. | L 38.8 in x W33.5 in x H25 in  

• Bugaboo Stardust comes with :
• Baby zip-in bassinet
• Bugaboo Stardust Accessories:
• Bugaboo Stardust Cotton Sheet 2021 | 2022

UPPAbaby Remi Travel Crib 2022  

$349.99 | 20 lbs | Max 35 in | L40.5 in x W26 in x H28.5 in  

• UPPAbaby Remi comes with :
• Duffle style travel bag
• Organic cotton mattress cover
• UPPAbaby Remi Accessories : 

Nuna Sena Aire Travel Crib

$399.95 | 20.8 lbs | Max 30 lbs or 35 in | L41.3 in x W30 in x H29 in  

• Nuna Sena Aire Travel Crib comes with:
• Organic Cotton Sheet
• Zippered travel bag w/ carry straps
• Nuna Sena Aire Travel Crib accessories:
• Nuna Sena Aire Organic Cotton Sheet Moonbeam 2021 | 2022

Nuna Cove Aire Go Travel Crib 2021 | 2022

$349.95 | 22 lbs | Max 30 lbs or 35 in | L40 in x W24.5 in x H30 in  

• Nuna Cove Aire Go comes with:
• Nuna Cove Aire Go accessories:
• Nuna Cove Aire Organic Cotton Sheet Moonbeam

Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light Mesh

$269.99 | 13 lbs | 0-3 years | L44 in x W32 in x H24 in **Mattress dimensions: 41 x 23.5 in

The Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light design makes almost too much sense. It’s the only crib on this list that lays the mattress and occupant at floor level, avoiding a need for a weight max. And by skipping the elevated floor framework the Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light can get away with being a ridiculously convenient 13 lbs!

This crib is often overlooked because it doesn’t have a bassinet level and a rather unconventional look. But the Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light is the only travel crib on this list ergonomically designed to carry through an airport. Its “briefcase” shape and 13lb weight is perfectly balanced for a one hand carry that won’t drag on the floor or knock into stair steps. And instead of laying your infant down on a mattress made of hard plastic boards and layers of fabric, the Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light mattress is a completely seam-free, non-toxic foam 1.2 inches thick. I cannot express enough how luxurious this mattress is, it feels like a cloud forming to a child’s growing shape instead of pushing against it.

Clumsy parents beware: the metal legs add almost 9 inches to the Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light floor dimension…the likelihood for tripping is real.

• Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light comes with :
• Briefcase style travel bag
• Organic cotton mattress cover 
• Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light Accessories :
• Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light Fitted Sheet 2021 | 2022

Aeromoov Instant Travel Cot  

$195 | 7.7 lbs | L51 x W36.2 x H24.8 **Mattress dimensions: L 43.3 x W 23.6 x H 24.08

The Aeromoov Instant Travel Cot is a wonder of the baby gear world. With its tiny 7.7lb frame and a 2-second “pop-up tent” style fold, the Aeromoov Instant Travel Cot is the most convenient travel crib on our list. It’s light enough to carry around an airport, pack into the car, store behind furniture at home, and bring it up and down stairs (folded up). The polyester material cleans easily and doesn’t pick up debris from the ground, making the Aeromoov Instant Travel Cot the only option worth bringing to the backyard and even the beach!

• Aeromoov Instant Travel Cot comes with:
• Aeromoov Instant Travel Cot accessories:
• Aeromoov Fitted Sheet for Instant Travel Cot
• Aeromoov Mosquito Net & Sun Shade Bundle

Looking to see the travel cribs in action? We’ve made an accompanying Best Travel cribs of 2022 video  and more to help you choose the best option for your growing family:

• Bugaboo Stardust vs. Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light vs. UPPAbaby Remi vs. Nuna Sena Aire
• Aeromoov Instant Travel Cot vs. Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light
• Aeromoov Instant Travel Cot

Check out our corresponding youtube video  Best Travel Cribs Of 2022 to see the travel cribs in action!

Email [email protected] or give us a call at 866-600-BEAN) during business hours (M-F, 9 am-5 pm EST). Or set up a one-on-one Baby Gear Consultation with an Mbeans expert!

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Comparing our top travel cots: Bugaboo, Babybjorn, Maxi-Cosi and Nuna

We love that time of year where many of us are in holiday mode; the suitcases have been brought down, the flip flops are out and you’re counting down the days until your family getaway.

If your holiday plans involve a little one however, one of the travel essentials that’s likely on your list to have at the ready is a travel cot . Travel cots provide a much-needed sleep space for baby when you’re out the home or away from their crib . They’re typically super easy to fold, lightweight, compact but most importantly safe for little ones.

At Natural Baby Shower, you’ll find a great selection of travel cots from big named brands such as Bugaboo , Babybjorn , Maxi-Cosi and Nuna . Read on to discover which one is right for you…

Bugaboo Stardust Travel Cot

For quality design

Bugaboo always pay attention to detail, whether that’s during the manufacturing process to within the finer finishes seen on the shelf. The Bugaboo Stardust is no different, with an easy 1 second fold, built in mattress and lightweight frame, it’s designed for ultimate convenience for nap times on the go. As well as being lightweight, this travel cot is also super compact and complete with a premium travel bag making it ideal for a multi-tasking parent with their hands full. 

You can open the travel cot easily in 1 second for nap time or playtime, and go back to tidying up the house, working, or enjoying the day, just as quickly as it unfolds. See the fold in action over on our Instagram !

Babybjorn Travel Cot Light

For maximum comfort

The Babybjorn Travel Cot Ligh t is designed as a safe, comfortable resting space when you're sleeping away from home. Made from child-friendly materials, with a soft and comfortable mattress, it's a snug den for any sleeping little one to enjoy. The mesh fabric sides allow for full ventilation and visibility so you can keep an eye on them while they're asleep. Designed for newborn up to 3 years old, this travel cot can accommodate a little one until they're able to climb.

Plus, this travel cot is also super easy to fold, with no loose parts or complicated elements, you can set up in seconds and put down just as easy again. 

Maxi-Cosi Iris Travel Cot

For lightweight travel

Maxi-Cosi's latest addition to their cot portfolio is the Maxi-Cosi Iris travel cot . At just 5.4kg, this is one of the lightest travel cots on the market, perfect if you're planning on packing light! Despite being so lightweight, Maxi-Cosi haven't cut any corners when it comes to the premium and luxurious fabrics used in this travel cot. With top quality materials, follows ultimate convenience with a super easy to fold mechanism which collapses in just a few swift motions.

Better yet, this travel cot offers multi-height positioning with the mattress, so you can set it to the preferred level depending on the age of your little one and to prevent back strain.

Nuna SENA Aire Travel Cot

For maximum breathability

The Nuna SENA Aire has been a firm favourite of parents for a long time. Offering all and more that you'd find in a permanent cot at home, the Nuna SENA Aire travel cot boasts a myriad of features that are sure to wow in the travel essentials department.

In this travel cot, you'll find a robust aluminium frame, skid proof feet, padded edges, water resistant fabrics and most importantly, 360 ventilation. The Nuna SENA Aire's main fabric is mesh, meaning that this travel cot offers optimal breathability so your little one can sleep comfortably all day and night.

 Specifications comparison

As you can see, each travel cot has its own shining features that will suit the right family. If it's an all round, budget friendly option you're looking for the Maxi-Cosi Iris is a great option. On the other hand, if you're travelling somewhere hot and want maximum ventilation for your baby, the Nuna SENA Aire will be worth the extra pennies.

We also love the amazing design of Bugaboo's Stardust travel cot which folds and unfolds in just seconds. A real game changer for parents who want to spend the most amount of time enjoying themselves on their holiday.  Lastly, the Babybjorn Travel Light cot is ideal for any traveler who wants the best of both worlds; a reasonably lightweight, compact travel cot that's easy to put up and comfortable for baby to sleep in. 

Want to know more?

Our team of nursery specialists are on hand to answer your calls, either via one-way video call, booked appointments or via our chat. We'll make sure to help you decide which travel cot is best for you and your family and offer helpful tips and advice for safe sleep when using a travel cot too.

Shop all travel cots>>

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This topic is for discussing cots and beds. We've spent weeks researching and testing newborn beds in real homes with real families.

Cots and beds

Nuna sena or bugaboo stardust travel cot.

YellowSun567 · 21/06/2021 13:13

I'm looking for a travel cot for my baby. He will be 3 months when we go away for a week. And then I want to use the cot for staying over at my parents house. Nuna Sena and Bugaboo Stardust seem to be the best from what I have researched. Which one would you recommend?

@YellowSun567 what did you go for in the end? Hoping JL has both so I can have a look/comparison

I was torn between the two. I bought the Nuna Sena. I preferred the firmer matress, and felt the whole cot was sturdier. It's larger than the bugaboo so I thought it was last longer. But it's so big!! And so heavy!! It doesn't fit in our car along with the pram so we had to buy a roof box. DS doesn't sleep that well in it as it's too big and not snug enough. I wish I'd bought the bugaboo stardust tbh!!

Yeah I'm edging towards the bugaboo as we will be taking it abroad and everywhere else with us! So expensive but hopefully a much better quality product that the sub-£100 ones!

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Video: Comparing the Nuna Sena Aire v. the Bugaboo Stardust

Are you struggling over which playard to purchase in this blog post and video, we'll go over the varying features, fabrics, and folds of two different portable crib brands to help you make your decision.

The Nuna Sena Aire has more of the classic playard shape—it's wide and round to give your baby plenty of space for independent play. That being said, it's a bit heavier and bulkier, weighing 22 lbs. without the bassinet insert. On the other hand, the new Bugaboo Stardust has more of a classic crib shape. It's a little taller and skinnier, with a more minimal design, and weighs only 15 lbs. The bassinet sits a little higher in the Bugaboo as well, so you wouldn't have to bend over as much to take your newborn in and out.

Something else to consider is the footprint of each playard when they're folded up and stored away. With the Nuna Sena Aire, you can fold it with one hand using the easy pull tab in the bottom. To fold it, you have to remove the mattress, but you can choose to keep the bassinet insert in if you'd like. With this option, just note that it is a little bit bulkier and harder to enfold it in the mattress to compress the overall footprint. This is because the bassinet insert has metal parts in it for structural purposes.

The Bugaboo Stardust is one of the only playards we've seen where you can keep the mattress in it as you fold it up. You do have to take the bassinet insert out, but it's all fabric and folds up really small separately. Both playards stand up on their own when folded, which is really convenient! The Stardust's fold is more skinny and long than the Sena Aire, and all of its included pieces fit easily into its travel bag. The Sena Aire's bassinet insert cannot fit in the travel bag with rest of the main pieces, so that's something to consider.

The playard you choose depends on your circumstances—the space you have in your home, how you plan to use it, what your baby is comfortable with. We love both options for different reasons, so you can't go wrong with either!

[…] Source: The Baby Cubby Community Blog, Author: Megan Matheson […]

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Bugaboo Butterfly Vs Nuna TRVL: Full Comparison!

Bugaboo Butterfly’s been one of our biggest sellers recently! Let’s compare Bugaboo’s new lightweight stroller with Nuna’s latest lightweight stroller, the Nuna TRVL , and see what each of these have to offer! 

The Bugaboo Butterfly impresses with a contoured, plush seat that offers a level of comfort you’ve never even dreamed possible. The Nuna TRVL  (pronounced travel) also has a comfortable seat but it’s not contoured and not nearly as plush like the Butterfly. However the seat on the Bugaboo Butterfly is not as wide and spacious as the one on the Nuna TRVL , so keep that in mind. Something we love about the Butterfly is that it has a seat height of 22 inches, five inches more than the seat height on the Nuna TRVL , which has a seat height of 17 inches (which isn’t short - it’s pretty standard!). 

Convenience

The underseat basket on the Bugaboo Butterfly can hold up to 18 pounds! Both of these strollers are really convenient, with loads of practical features! Another thing we noticed is that the hood on the Bugaboo Butterfly is really big - it extends much further than the one on the Nuna TRVL, making it simpler than ever to get baby to sleep. The Bugaboo Butterfly rear-wheels are just 6 inches, while the Nuna TRVL has 7 inch rear wheels. 

Car-seat ready

Both strollers can be used together with a car seat! The Bugaboo Butterfly needs adapters to make it work, while the Nuna TRVL comes with a belly bar that doubles as a car seat adapter. 

The Bugaboo Butterfly is narrow and sleek at just 36.42 x 17.72 x 40.31, made to fit easily through tight doorways and store aisles. It’s significantly narrower than the Nuna TRVL at 44" x 32.5" x 20.25". It also has a smaller fold, so that it’ll take up less space in your car or home! 

Now that we’ve gone through the distinction between the Bugaboo Butterfly and the Nuna TRVL , we hope that you’ve got the differences down pat so you can make an educated decision!

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Bugaboo Butterfly vs Nuna Trvl: Which Stroller is the Best?

Andjela Antic

April 4, 2024

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Who takes the crown, Bugaboo Butterfly vs Nuna Trvl?

Based on our detailed research and comparison, the Bugaboo Butterfly wins for its safety, ease of use, durability, and cost-effectiveness, standing out in each category.

Bugaboo Butterfly

Ease of Use

Cost-Effectiveness

As a nurse, special educator and rehabilitator, I understand what makes a stroller safe, comfortable, and practical for your baby. I offer trusted advice on choosing the compact travel stroller for your family.

The Bugaboo Butterfly and Nuna TRVL are great strollers for different needs. The Butterfly is super easy to fold with one hand and is good for moving around in busy places. It’s also small enough to fit on a plane and very light to carry.

The Nuna TRVL is nicer for comfort because it has a bigger seat that leans back more, so it’s better for nap time. It also has big wheels that make it smooth to push and works well with Nuna car seats.

Both are safe and strong, but the Butterfly is especially good for people who travel a lot because it’s simple to carry and use. Also, it makes everyday stuff easier, like getting around town or putting it in the car.

Think about what’s important for you – ease of carrying and storing, or your baby’s comfort on long walks. Your choice will depend on these things.

Read on to find out more about each stroller and see which one fits your family best.

Nuna TRVL vs Bugaboo Butterfly | What To Look For?

Ease of use :.

For busy parents navigating busy areas with a baby, the Bugaboo Butterfly stroller is easy to use and fold with one hand. It has smooth handling for easy maneuvering in tight spaces.

On the other hand, the Nuna TRVL stroller requires two hands to fold and may be cumbersome to handle while carrying bags or dealing with a busy child.

Winner: Bugaboo Butterfly

For a comfortable ride for your child, choose the Nuna TRVL with its wider seat and various recline options.

The Bugaboo Butterfly is also comfortable but has a narrower seat and may not be ideal for older or bigger children who need longer naps.

Winner: Nuna TRVL

Both, the Bugaboo Butterfly and Nuna TRVL prioritize your child’s well-being with top-notch safety features like five-point harnesses, reliable brakes, and stable designs.

Winner: Tie.

Durability :

Both the Bugaboo Butterfly and Nuna TRVL strollers are constructed with high-quality materials and offer strong warranties. Numerous user reviews confirm their durability, making them both reliable options for your travels. Therefore, it’s a tie between the two contenders as they both boast excellent durability.

Winner: Tie

Cost-Effectiveness:

Let’s talk value! The Nuna TRVL comes in at a slightly lower price point. But the Bugaboo Butterfly offers a compact design and features that make navigating busy environments easier. This might be more valuable for parents who:

• Live in urban areas and frequently maneuver crowded sidewalks, stores, or public transportation.
• Travel often, even if not by plane. The compact size might be a perk for car travel or navigating train stations.
• Prioritize space-saving storage at home or on the go.

Our Testing Process

Let’s get to the point. When it comes to stroller comparison, it’s not only about looks. Here’s how we choose the best one:

First, we talk to child experts to make sure the strollers we recommend are comfy and safe for your little one.

Next, we read lots of reviews from real parents who have used these strollers in different places, like parks and airports.

We also check the materials and how strong the strollers are to make sure they can handle your adventures.

Finally, we compare these two travel strollers to other top models, so you can see how they measure up against the competition.

We want to give you honest and reliable information to help you make the right choice for you and your family.

User Reviews – Bugaboo Butterfly vs Nuna TRVL

Here are some reviews of people who purchased these strollers:

Review for Bugaboo Butterfly:

Review for nuna trvl:.

“This stroller is amazing! It’s so comfortable for my baby, and it rides so smoothly. The wheels are big and handle all kinds of terrain. It folds up pretty compactly, and it’s not too heavy. I love that this stroller has so many features, like the multiple recline positions, the adjustable leg rest, and the large sun canopy. It’s also very easy to fold and unfold.”

Final Verdict: Which Stroller is The Best?

In our comparison, the Bugaboo Butterfly comes out on top for its ease of use, compact size, and travel-friendly features, making it a great choice for families on the move. Its one-handed fold and ability to fit in overhead compartments on planes give it an edge, especially for parents who value convenience and portability.

However, the Nuna TRVL stroller shouldn’t be overlooked. It may be the better option for those who prioritize their child’s comfort during longer outings, thanks to its wider seat and more recline options. Plus, its larger wheels offer a smoother ride, which is great for leisurely walks and nap times.

Both strollers have their strengths, so the best choice depends on your family’s specific needs and lifestyle.

Bugaboo Butterfly vs. Nuna TRVL – FAQs

Can the bugaboo butterfly and nuna trvl be used from birth.

Yes, both strollers are designed to be used from birth. They are compatible with infant car seats, making them ideal for a “snap-and-go” travel system. This functionality allows for seamless transitions from the car to on-foot excursions, emphasizing convenience from day one​.

What are the weight limits for the Bugaboo Butterfly and Nuna TRVL ?

Both strollers are designed to comfortably fit children up to 50 pounds. This ensures that the strollers can accompany your child’s growth over several years, providing longevity and value​.

How compact are these strollers when folded?

The Bugaboo Butterfly boasts a compact fold, making it easier to store in tight spaces and less cumbersome to take along on travels, including fitting in most overhead bins in airplanes. The Nuna TRVL also highlights its compactness and ease of folding, which, combined with its lightweight design, enhances its portability for traveling families​.

What key features differentiate the Nuna Travel Stroller vs Bugaboo Butterfly Stroller?

The Bugaboo Butterfly is great for travel with its compact fold and lightweight (18 pounds), fitting easily in airplane bins. It can be folded with one hand. The Nuna TRVL offers a comfy, wider seat for babies, a safety belly bar, and fits Nuna Pipa car seats directly. Both strollers are easy to use and portable, but they suit different parent needs for travel.

How do the Bugaboo Butterfly and Nuna TRVL ensure the safety and comfort of a child during travel?

Both the Bugaboo Butterfly and Nuna TRVL ensure safety and comfort with secure harnesses, smooth suspension, and sun-protective canopies. The Nuna TRVL has a plush, wider seat for comfy naps, while the Bugaboo Butterfly offers a compact design with a high seat and safety bumper bar. Both have storage baskets under the seat for convenience.

Nuna Travel vs Bugaboo Butterfly: Do they offer comfortable seating for the child?

Both strollers provide plush, comfortable seating with multiple recline positions and adjustable calf support, ensuring a pleasant ride for children of various ages and sizes. The Bugaboo Butterfly is noted for its high backrest, accommodating older or taller toddlers, while the Nuna TRVL’s design focuses on ease of use and comfort with its unique automatic standing fold feature​.

Reach out to us for a consultation.

Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

© Dream Baby Gear

Bugaboo Butterfly Vs Nuna Trvl: Comparison(2023)

The reason you are here is that you are a parent who loves to travel and doesn’t want to leave your child behind. When it comes to traveling with your baby, the stroller becomes a must-have item on your list. Bugaboo Butterfly is the most famous compact traveling stroller, Comparing Bugaboo Butterfly Vs Nuna Trvl can be a little challenging but not impossible.

The Bugaboo Butterfly Vs Nuna Trvl is the most requested comparison by parents because both strollers are compact travel strollers with great functionalities such as being lightweight, quick fold and fold, and easy to store and use on a long trip if you are traveling in a car, train or plane or any other traveling mode. Parents are keen interest in both of these strollers and they want to compare Bugaboo Butterfly Vs Nuna Trvl to choose one from them. In this article, we will be discussing both of the strollers’ features with their pros and cons and also comparing Bugaboo Butterfly Vs Nuna Trvl with each other in regards to design, comfort, compatibility, convenience, car seat ready, and prices.

Bugaboo Butterfly

The Bugaboo Butterfly is a limited-edition, stylish stroller with useful characteristics which is one of the favorite strollers of parents who are often on an adventure with their children. It has a sun canopy and a seat liner with a charming butterfly design and the canopy is sun protective. It has great adjustable suspension, and foam-filled tires to give your baby a smooth ride on all terrains and can hold kids starting at birth up to a maximum weight of 50 pounds.

The reversible seat in this pram allows children to either face their parents or take in the scenery while enjoying the view, so parents don’t have to worry about missing them. When folded, the stroller is incredibly compact and fits easily in the compartment of the aircraft that is located above the seat or in the smallest car trunk as well. It also folds up incredibly quickly and easily with a one-hand. There is a sizable stroller’s basket carries the necessities you want to carry for your baby while giving the ride.

The stroller’s compatibility with a broad range of car seat sets makes it unique from other strollers and the handlebar can be adjusted to accommodate various heights whether you are tall, medium, or short. The butterfly comes with a 5-point harness to make the stroller the safest to ride in order to ensure the safety of the infant and reduces the stress of parents.

1) The kid can face his or her parent when riding in the stroller.

2) Enables parents to keep their child close when out walking, providing a sense of security and comfort to parents and the little one.

3) Bugaboo Cameleon, Bugaboo Frog, Bugaboo Bee, and Bugaboo Gecko stroller models are all compatible with this accessory.

4) An extended canopy with a Breez window which is a unique feature.

1) In comparison to other strollers’ accessories, it could be expensive.

2) Tends to make the stroller heavier, which could make it harder to push or maneuver for new mommies.

Nuna TRVL is a compact travel stroller that is mostly preference of those parents who are always on the Go and traveling around the globe This stroller can be foldable easily just with one hand without putting much effort. It is a high-end and luxurious stroller with a faux leather handle and bumper bar along with comfortable seats.

It is featuring a UPF 50 peekaboo window and mesh vent which are accessible with a zipper. When you are strolling your baby and he falls asleep, you can easily recline the stroller in the prone position without waking up the baby or this stroller will not disturb your kid’s sleep. The Nuna weighs more than 15 pounds when folded, making it difficult to transport, and there is no built-in strap to help. For hands-free carrying, you must use the provided carry bag.

It tackles difficult terrain and goes over curbs like larger strollers and is simple to maneuver on grass. With this pram, I never once felt like I was giving up stability, control, or maneuverability to make it smaller and more portable.

1- The Nuna TRVL stroller’s lightweight and compact design makes it simple to transport.

2- When you’re holding your child or carrying luggage, it’s useful because the stroller may be folded with one hand.

3- The Nuna TRVL pram features numerous recline options for the comfort of your child and can be used from birth up to 50 pounds.

4- The pram is composed of high-quality components, so it ought to last for a long time.

5- A travel bag that is included with the Nuna TRVL stroller can assist keep it safe while in transit.

1) The Nuna TRVL stroller costs more than some other available travel strollers. The Nuna 2- TRVL stroller doesn’t have as much storage room as some other strollers because of its small size.

3) Because the handlebar height cannot be adjusted, some parents might find it uncomfortable.

4) The stroller’s wheels are made for city use, therefore they might not be appropriate for outdoor activities or tough terrain. 

5) Only a few colors are offered for the Nuna TRVL pram, which might not be appealing to everyone.

Till now, you have known each stroller individually. Comparing Butterfly Bugaboo Vs Nuna Trvl is never easy just because they both are lightweight travel strollers and they tend to have many similar features. Furthermore, we are going to highlight their comfort level, compactness, convenience, and car-seat features.

Comparing Bugaboo Butterfly Vs Nuna Trvl

The butterfly offers offers plush seats which increases the comfort to the great extend . Nuna Trvl (Travel) also have offers comfortable seats but not to the level as butterfly but the seats on the Nuna Trvl are much wide and spacious than Butterfly . The butterfly has a seat-height of 22 inches while Nuna Trvl has 17 inches which is good as standard .

Compactness

The Bugaboo Butterfly is designed to pass through short doors and store aisles since it is narrow and stylish, measuring at 36.42 x 17.72 x 40.31. It also features a smaller fold, making it easier to store in tight spaces and take up less room in your home or car. It measures 44″ x 32.5″ x 20.25″, making it substantially narrower than the Nuna TRVL. Nuna TRVL is a little bit bigger than Butterfly, making storage a little more difficult. In simple words, Butterfly is more compact than Nuna Trvl.

Car-seat feature

Both of the lightweight strollers can be used with a car seat when discussing the car-seat feature. The Nuna TRVL comes with a belly bar that acts as a car seat adaptor, while the Bugaboo Butterfly requires adapters in order to function.

Convenience

The Bugaboo Butterfly’s underseat basket, which has a weight capacity of up to 18 pounds, is a convenient place to store baby supplies when out and about. The hood on the Bugaboo Butterfly is also very large; it extends much further than the one on the Nuna TRVL, which makes it easier than ever to put the baby to sleep. 

Wheels 

The both strollers have rear-wheels which gives smooth ride on maximum terrains , Nuna Trvl has 7 inches rear wheels while Butterfly has rear-wheel of 6 inches

If you want to explore more about the above comparision between Bugaboo Butterfly and Nuna Trvl and you might want to check more feature you can click here for Butterfly and click here for Nuna Trvl .you might be interested to see our other comparisions such as Bugaboo Ant Vs Butterfly and Bugboo Butterfly Vs joolz Aer .

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Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot Review

Read our Nuna Sena Aire travel cot review to see why it's a best buy

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‘It's easy to use and delivers a great night's sleep.’

Comfortable

Clever design

Multi-purpose

Pricey but an investment buy

Why you can trust GoodtoKnow. Our experienced Consumer Editor & parent reviewers spend hours testing products to help you make the best choice. Find out how we test and review products.

Darryl Baker and her 10-month-old daughter Cole tested the Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot to see if it was worth flying off with.

The Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot is as impressive as it sounds: clever design, multi-functional and with an emphasis on comfort. ‘My baby was on cloud nine – quite literally – in this cot,’ said Darryl, who reviewed it for our travel cots buying guide. 

The cot comes with two levels: a higher, newborn insert which means you can easily lift very little ones in and out, while the lower level works for older children or as a playpen.

Luxury was certainly in mind and the travel cot has a slick design and a thick, padded mattress. While Darryl found the cot to be quite heavy and thought it would be difficult to use if you were lacking in space in your car boot, she believes it's worth it's £200-plus price tag. It’s ‘the Rolls-Royce of travel cots,’ she said.

VIEW AT VERY | £249.99

Weighs: 10kg | Age Range: Birth to 3 years

Unlike others on the market, the Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot is genuinely easy to pop open and fold away again. This is because of its zig-zag leg design, which means it pushes into place and can be folded away with one hand. 

‘Anyone who's ever had a fight with a travel cot will appreciate how superior this function is,’ said tester Darryl. The sides have a stylish black/grey mesh design so your baby is always easy to see while also being cocooned.

The mattress that comes with it is lovely and padded, which again sets it apart from the hard surfaces many babies sleep on with other travel cots. 

The finishing touch? An organic cotton sheet is included which is soft and gentle, especially on allergy-prone skin. The only downside that our tester found was how big this travel cot is. ‘Its large size and considerable weight will cause issues if you have limited space or are travelling alone,’ she said. ‘A large duffle-like bag is provided, but I found it quite heavy and had my husband handle it.’

Comfort and features

The standout feature of this travel cot is that it has a smaller bassinet upper section which is perfect for newborns and means you don’t have to bend down into the cot. Darryl thought this idea was ‘genius’. When your baby gets bigger – or if you want to use it as a playpen – this upper section can be removed.

In terms of comfort, our tester could not find fault. Using a travel cot can often mean broken sleep even when the baby is sleeping through, but not with this cot and its emphasis on comfort really pays off. 

‘This really is luxury; in fact, my toddler looked on with a hint of envy when she had to sleep on a sofa bed during a recent night away,’ she said. ‘The Air design claims to provide "unparalleled relaxation" and if my 10-month-old could talk, she'd agree.’

Value for money

At just under £250, the Nuna Sena Aire sits in the premium travel cot category and Darryl joked that, if you’re off on holiday, ‘this luxury product deserves a luxury destination!’

It is a really clever and comfortable travel cot though, and it has a price that reflects this. Darryl said that it would suit parents for whom budget and space isn’t an issue and who need a great bed for their baby while away from home. The fact that the newborn insert can be removed and it can be transformed into a playpen for older children means that it can be used when you get home from your travels too.

You might also like to read our Joie Kubbie Sleep Travel Cot review – it’s our pick of the best travel cot overall, according to our parent reviews. And don’t forget to check out the rest of our baby product reviews .

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Charlotte Duck is an award-winning lifestyle and parenting journalist who writes who regularly writes for Tatler, the Evening Standard, Yahoo, and Hello Magazine about everything from royal hairstyles to fixed-rate mortgages. She was previously Kidswear Editor at M&S and worked in-house at Boden but, while she loves writing about beautiful children's clothes, she has three children who refuse to wear them. 

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Bugaboo Dragonfly vs. Nuna TRIV Next Stroller Comparison

In the world of strollers, the mid-size category strikes a perfect balance between compactness and functionality. When searching for a stroller that seamlessly blends convenience, style, and versatility, two exceptional options rise to the top: the Bugaboo Dragonfly  and the Nuna TRIV Next . These strollers could function as a one-and-done - great for everyday, but also easy for in and out of the car and travel! 

Newer to the mid-size category is the  Bugaboo Dragonfly , which was released in Spring 2023. The Dragonfly combines Bugaboo's style and functionality into a mid-size stroller that weighs less than 17.5 pounds. The Dragonfly has an impressive and unique one-handed fold - the bassinet can even fold with the stroller into a slim package! 

Redesigned in late 2022, the  Nuna TRIV Next  weighs less than 19 pounds, but

has all the full-size features everyone wants—like a reversible seat, simple recline, adjustable footrest, as well as a one-handed fold! The included Nuna infant seat adapter even folds with the stroller! 

These mid-size marvels have captivated parents with their impressive features, innovative designs, easy folds, and effortless maneuverability. In this article, we will dive into a comprehensive comparison between these the Dragonfly and the TRIV Next ! 

Let's take a look!

Bugaboo Dragonfly

The  Bugaboo Dragonfly  stroller is Bugaboo’s answer to the new mid-size stroller category! Released in spring 2023, it’s a remarkable choice for parents seeking a lightweight and agile stroller without compromising on performance or style. Designed with urban living in mind, the Dragonfly effortlessly combines functionality and elegance.

Weighing just 17.4 pounds, this lightweight stroller is a breeze to maneuver, and quickly and easily folds with one-hand. The Dragonfly also has a slim standing fold with both the seat or bassinet attached!

The  Dragonfly  looks like a grown up version of the Bugaboo Butterfly, and offers features such as reversible seat, telescoping handlebar, adjustable calf support, large 22 pound capacity under storage basket, and an optional bassinet that folds while attached to the stroller! The fold is innovative and great for parents on the go! 

Nuna TRIV Next

The  Nuna TRIV Next  came out in late 2022 as an upgrade to the popular Nuna TRIV. It’s a perfect mid-size solution for parents who want one stroller that does it all, instead of having both a travel stroller and a full size stroller.

Updates to the seat include an updated magnetic harness buckle and zip-off sun canopy. A modernized stroller frame has larger, foam-filled rubber tires with a wider wheel base and built-in foot rest for tall toddlers. Parents will enjoy updated comfort features like an ergonomic rounded handlebar and a sandal-friendly one-touch brake mechanism.

Learn more about the TRIV Next here:

Bugaboo Dragonfly vs. Nuna TRIV Next Price

For current pricing of the  Bugaboo Dragonfly  and  Nuna TRIV Next , please see their respective product pages.

The purchase of the  Bugaboo Dragonfly  includes:

• Carry strap
• Rotating carry handle
• Sun canopy wires, sun canopy clamps, sun canopy (with peek-aboo and pop-out visor)
• Parasol+ attachment clip
• Toddler seat
• Car seat adapters compatible with Bugaboo Turtle One or Turtle Air, or Clek, Cybex, Maxi-Cosi, and Nuna

The purchase of the  Nuna TRIV Next includes:

• Nuna TRIV Next stroller
• Ring car seat adapter

Bugaboo Dragonfly vs. Bugaboo Fox5 Weight and Dimensions

The  Bugaboo Dragonfly  and  Nuna TRIV Next  are very similar in terms of size. They are both a part of a newer category of strollers - the mid-size category. This size is perfect for parents who want a one and done stroller - perfect for everyday, but also great for traveling and in and out of cars! Both the Dragonfly and TRIV Next are under 19 pounds and small enough when folded and unfolded to fit in tighter spaces.

Stroller Weight

• Dragonfly : 17.4 pounds
• TRIV Next : 18.5 pounds (excluding seat insert, bumper bar and canopy)

Stroller Weight Limit

• Dragonfly : 6 months to 50 pounds (birth with bassinet or car seat attached)
• TRIV Next : 6 months to 50 pounds
• Dragonfly : 41”H x 21”W x 42”L
• TRIV Next : 37"L x 22.5"W x 42-43.5"H

Folded Dimensions

• Dragonfly : 35.4”H x 20.5”W x 14.2”L
• TRIV Next : 24"L x 22.5"W x 15"H

Underseat Basket Weight Limit

• Dragonfly : 22 pounds
• TRIV Next : 10 pounds

Seat Back Height

• Dragonfly : 23”
• TRIV Next : 19"

Seat to Canopy Height

• TRIV Next : 21"

Seat Depth:

• Dragonfly : 11.5”
• TRIV Next : 10"

Leg Rest Length:

• Dragonfly : 5.5”
• TRIV Next : 6”
• Dragonfly : 7” front wheels; 8.5” rear wheels
• TRIV Next : 7" front wheels, 9" rear wheels 

Bugaboo Dragonfly vs. Bugaboo Fox5 Configurations 

The seats on the Bugaboo  Dragonfly  and  Nuna TRIV Next  are removable and reversible, allowing your child to face you when they're younger and face forward to explore the world as they grow. Both strollers can also be used with an infant car seat, and the Dragonfly can be purchased with or without a bassinet (see next sections for more details).

The Bugaboo Dragonfly can also accommodate an older child on a ride-along-board attachment! The Bugaboo Comfort Wheeled Board allows the child to sit or stand, and holds a child up to 44 pounds. The Nuna TRIV Next does not offer a ride along board, but you can use a universal one, like the Lascal BuggyBoard!

Bugaboo Dragonfly vs. Nuna TRIV Next Bassinet

The  Bugaboo Dragonfly  can be purchased with or without a bassinet, and is a standalone bassinet - however, the seat and bassinet do share the canopy so you would attach the canopy to whatever one you are using. The biggest advantage of the Dragonfly bassinet is that it can fold with the stroller!

The  Nuna TRIV Next bassinet is currently in the process of being redesigned and will be coming back to market sometime later this year. The bassinet will come with the bassinet stand for use in your bedroom or home. The bassinet is approved for overnight sleep, and can be used as your baby’s first bed!

Both bassinets have a hard bottom that allow them to be placed anywhere, making them convenient to bring along for a restaurant nap or an overnight at a hotel. Bugaboo also offers a bassinet stand for use in your home. The stand can also be used with the stroller seat as a portable high chair!

Both the Bugaboo  Dragonfly  and TRIV Next bassinets will be well-ventilated with mesh panels, which allow for more air flow than the hot, protective foam of a car seat, and keep baby completely shaded from the sun.

The bassinets can be used until approximately 6 months, depending mostly on the height of the baby.

Bugaboo Dragonfly vs. Nuna TRIV Next Fold

The  Bugaboo Dragonfly  has an innovative, compact fold unlike any other stroller! It’s a one-handed fold, and the seat or bassinet folds in one piece with the stroller. Take a look at the Dragonfly fold here:

To fold the  Nuna TRIV Next  with the toddler seat attached, you'll need to fold the seat in half, then fold up the frame. First, lower the handlebar to the lowest position. Then raise the seat recline up to a 90-degree angle by using the lever on the back of the seat. Using that same lever, pull it up and push the button on top of it, and the seat will fold down over itself. Next, simply grab the strap on the back of the seat and pull up! The TRIV Next can stand when folded, but you may need to find its sweet spot on the wheels for that to happen.

It's easy to carry the TRIV Next once it's folded due to the leatherette padded carry strap.

To fold the TRIV Next with the included infant car seat adapter attached, you simply lower the handlebar to the lowest position and then pull up on the strap located in the center of the adapter. That's it! The adapter folds in half! 

To unfold, just grab a hold of the handlebars, lift it up, flip up the seat and you're ready to stroll!

Car Seats Compatible with Bugaboo Dragonfly vs. Nuna TRIV Next

Both strollers include car seat adapters to turn your stroller into a travel system.

Included with the purchase of the  Bugaboo Dragonfly  are car seat adapters for these popular brands: Bugaboo Turtle One or Turtle Air, Clek, Cybex, Maxi-Cosi, and Nuna.

Included with the purchase of the Nuna TRIV Next are car seat adapters for Nuna branded infant car seats.  

Car Seats Compatible with Bugaboo Dragonfly

Car Seats Compatible with Nuna TRIV Next

Bugaboo Dragonfly vs. Nuna TRIV Next Accessories

Accessories are always fun and help you customize your stroller with more conveniences! Bugaboo offers a wide array of accessories such as a ride along board for an older child, cup holder, breezy canopy, and a phone holder. Nuna does not have as many accessories, but does have a parent cupholder.

Bugaboo offers the following accessories:

• Bassinet stand
• Parent organizer
• Comfort wheeled board
• Breezy canopies
• Phone holder
• Newborn inlay
• Changing clutch
• Changing backpack
• Changing bag
• Mosquito net

Nuna offers the following accessories:

• Bassinet and stand

Benefits and Drawbacks

So which stroller is better: the  Bugaboo Dragonfly  or the Nuna TRIV Next ? Both strollers look quite different, but size wise and functionality they are very similar. They’re both mid-size strollers with optional bassinets (TRIV Next coming soon) and both offer a quick one-handed fold with the stroller seat rear or forward facing!

Only you can decide which is best for your family, but here are the benefits and drawbacks of both:

• Lighter than the TRIV Next by 1.2 pounds
• Larger seat for growing toddlers
• More accessories offered including a ride along board for an older child
• Stroller can be purchased with or without bassinet
• Stroller can fold with the bassinet attached
• Stroller can be pulled like a trolley
• Smaller wheels
• Larger fold than the TRIV Next
• Fold may take more practice

• One-handed fold with the included car seat adapter attached (the adapter folds in half!)
• All-season seat keeps baby cozy in the winter and easily converts to a mesh seat in the warmer months   
• Removable, washable seat insert 
• Smaller fold than the Dragonfly 
• Not as many accessories offered, such as no ride along board
• Heavier than the Dragonfly by 1.2 pounds
• Compatible with only Nuna car seats

Bugaboo and Nuna have both created beautiful, stylish, and functional mid-size strollers! The Dragonfly and TRIV Next offer parents a one-and-done stroller that can really do it all!

These two strollers have very similar features including reversible seats that fold either direction, telescoping handlebars, standing folds, multiple recline positions, oversized extendable canopies, lightweight frames, and easy compact folds!

It’s a hard choice! The difference may come down to infant seat compatibility, accessories offered, or aesthetic preference.

Strolleria is dedicated to making the baby gear buying experience less overwhelming for parents. 

If you have more questions about the  Bugaboo Dragonfly  vs.  Nuna TRIV Next  debate, feel free to contact us by starting a live chat on our website or emailing us at [email protected]. 

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Bugaboo Stardust

The one-second pop-up travel cot

Portable travel cot perfection

The Bugaboo Stardust pop-up travel cot is a game-changer. The all-in-one design with built-in mattress unfolds in one second, so you’re ready for rest and play in an instant.

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The Bugaboo Stardust has patented aerospace technology and a one-piece design, so it pops up in a second. Fold it back into a streamlined package for simple storage.

Nap time in neutrals

The dream — a travel cot that won’t disturb your interior. Let your baby nap in a classic black Bugaboo Stardust or in timeless Desert Taupe.

First-rate relaxation

The built-in mattress lets your baby rest, wriggle, and play in first-class comfort. And the zip-in carrycot gives you easier access to interact with your baby.

Refined design

For a clean look that’s easy to clean, the Bugaboo Stardust combines sleek finishes, hidden fastenings, and fabrics you can simply wipe with a damp cloth.

Designed to give you extra peace of mind, the Bugaboo Stardust has stability feet and a bassinet buckle for added security.

Unmatched naps

Mesh panels promote optimal airflow for peaceful naps, while giving you a clear view of your baby. Your newborn can rest in the zip-in carrycot until they’re 9 kg. Then they can move into the travel cot until they’re 15 kg.

Ready when you are

Weighing just 7.8 kg and folding down to just 14 cm wide, the Bugaboo Stardust is made to move. Fold the travel cot in seconds, then slip it into the Velcro-fastened travel bag and you’re good to go.

Why choose Bugaboo

• Responsibility

Unrivalled engineering

Award-winning designs, engineered and tested to keep going for generations.

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

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

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

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

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

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

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

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

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

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

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

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

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

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

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Conclusion and Recommendations

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

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

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

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

MindTheTravel

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

Mariella Blago

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

Thanks, Mariella!

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

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

Tara Pittman

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

Adriana Lopez

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

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

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

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

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

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

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

DANA GUTKOWSKI

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

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

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

Reesa Lewandowski

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

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

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

Chelsea Pearl

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

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

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

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

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In Transit: Notes from the Underground

Jun 06 2018.

Spend some time in one of Moscow’s finest museums.

Subterranean commuting might not be anyone’s idea of a good time, but even in a city packing the war-games treasures and priceless bejeweled eggs of the Kremlin Armoury and the colossal Soviet pavilions of the VDNKh , the Metro holds up as one of Moscow’s finest museums. Just avoid rush hour.

The Metro is stunning and provides an unrivaled insight into the city’s psyche, past and present, but it also happens to be the best way to get around. Moscow has Uber, and the Russian version called Yandex Taxi , but also some nasty traffic. Metro trains come around every 90 seconds or so, at a more than 99 percent on-time rate. It’s also reasonably priced, with a single ride at 55 cents (and cheaper in bulk). From history to tickets to rules — official and not — here’s what you need to know to get started.

A Brief Introduction Buying Tickets Know Before You Go (Down) Rules An Easy Tour

A Brief Introduction

Moscow’s Metro was a long time coming. Plans for rapid transit to relieve the city’s beleaguered tram system date back to the Imperial era, but a couple of wars and a revolution held up its development. Stalin revived it as part of his grand plan to modernize the Soviet Union in the 1920s and 30s. The first lines and tunnels were constructed with help from engineers from the London Underground, although Stalin’s secret police decided that they had learned too much about Moscow’s layout and had them arrested on espionage charges and deported.

The beauty of its stations (if not its trains) is well-documented, and certainly no accident. In its illustrious first phases and particularly after the Second World War, the greatest architects of Soviet era were recruited to create gleaming temples celebrating the Revolution, the USSR, and the war triumph. No two stations are exactly alike, and each of the classic showpieces has a theme. There are world-famous shrines to Futurist architecture, a celebration of electricity, tributes to individuals and regions of the former Soviet Union. Each marble slab, mosaic tile, or light fixture was placed with intent, all in service to a station’s aesthetic; each element, f rom the smallest brass ear of corn to a large blood-spattered sword on a World War II mural, is an essential part of the whole.

The Metro is a monument to the Soviet propaganda project it was intended to be when it opened in 1935 with the slogan “Building a Palace for the People”. It brought the grand interiors of Imperial Russia to ordinary Muscovites, celebrated the Soviet Union’s past achievements while promising its citizens a bright Soviet future, and of course, it was a show-piece for the world to witness the might and sophistication of life in the Soviet Union.

It may be a museum, but it’s no relic. U p to nine million people use it daily, more than the London Underground and New York Subway combined. (Along with, at one time, about 20 stray dogs that learned to commute on the Metro.)

In its 80+ year history, the Metro has expanded in phases and fits and starts, in step with the fortunes of Moscow and Russia. Now, partly in preparation for the World Cup 2018, it’s also modernizing. New trains allow passengers to walk the entire length of the train without having to change carriages. The system is becoming more visitor-friendly. (There are helpful stickers on the floor marking out the best selfie spots .) But there’s a price to modernity: it’s phasing out one of its beloved institutions, the escalator attendants. Often they are middle-aged or elderly women—“ escalator grandmas ” in news accounts—who have held the post for decades, sitting in their tiny kiosks, scolding commuters for bad escalator etiquette or even bad posture, or telling jokes . They are slated to be replaced, when at all, by members of the escalator maintenance staff.

For all its achievements, the Metro lags behind Moscow’s above-ground growth, as Russia’s capital sprawls ever outwards, generating some of the world’s worst traffic jams . But since 2011, the Metro has been in the middle of an ambitious and long-overdue enlargement; 60 new stations are opening by 2020. If all goes to plan, the 2011-2020 period will have brought 125 miles of new tracks and over 100 new stations — a 40 percent increase — the fastest and largest expansion phase in any period in the Metro’s history.

Facts: 14 lines Opening hours: 5 a.m-1 a.m. Rush hour(s): 8-10 a.m, 4-8 p.m. Single ride: 55₽ (about 85 cents) Wi-Fi network-wide

Buying Tickets

• Ticket machines have a button to switch to English.
• You can buy specific numbers of rides: 1, 2, 5, 11, 20, or 60. Hold up fingers to show how many rides you want to buy.
• There is also a 90-minute ticket , which gets you 1 trip on the metro plus an unlimited number of transfers on other transport (bus, tram, etc) within 90 minutes.
• Or, you can buy day tickets with unlimited rides: one day (218₽/ US$4), three days (415₽/US$7) or seven days (830₽/US$15). Check the rates here to stay up-to-date.
• If you’re going to be using the Metro regularly over a few days, it’s worth getting a Troika card , a contactless, refillable card you can use on all public transport. Using the Metro is cheaper with one of these: a single ride is 36₽, not 55₽. Buy them and refill them in the Metro stations, and they’re valid for 5 years, so you can keep it for next time. Or, if you have a lot of cash left on it when you leave, you can get it refunded at the Metro Service Centers at Ulitsa 1905 Goda, 25 or at Staraya Basmannaya 20, Building 1.
• You can also buy silicone bracelets and keychains with built-in transport chips that you can use as a Troika card. (A Moscow Metro Fitbit!) So far, you can only get these at the Pushkinskaya metro station Live Helpdesk and souvenir shops in the Mayakovskaya and Trubnaya metro stations. The fare is the same as for the Troika card.
• You can also use Apple Pay and Samsung Pay.

Rules, spoken and unspoken

No smoking, no drinking, no filming, no littering. Photography is allowed, although it used to be banned.

Stand to the right on the escalator. Break this rule and you risk the wrath of the legendary escalator attendants. (No shenanigans on the escalators in general.)

Get out of the way. Find an empty corner to hide in when you get off a train and need to stare at your phone. Watch out getting out of the train in general; when your train doors open, people tend to appear from nowhere or from behind ornate marble columns, walking full-speed.

Always offer your seat to elderly ladies (what are you, a monster?).

An Easy Tour

This is no Metro Marathon ( 199 stations in 20 hours ). It’s an easy tour, taking in most—though not all—of the notable stations, the bulk of it going clockwise along the Circle line, with a couple of short detours. These stations are within minutes of one another, and the whole tour should take about 1-2 hours.

Start at Mayakovskaya Metro station , at the corner of Tverskaya and Garden Ring,  Triumfalnaya Square, Moskva, Russia, 125047.

1. Mayakovskaya.  Named for Russian Futurist Movement poet Vladimir Mayakovsky and an attempt to bring to life the future he imagined in his poems. (The Futurist Movement, natch, was all about a rejecting the past and celebrating all things speed, industry, modern machines, youth, modernity.) The result: an Art Deco masterpiece that won the National Grand Prix for architecture at the New York World’s Fair in 1939. It’s all smooth, rounded shine and light, and gentle arches supported by columns of dark pink marble and stainless aircraft steel. Each of its 34 ceiling niches has a mosaic. During World War II, the station was used as an air-raid shelter and, at one point, a bunker for Stalin. He gave a subdued but rousing speech here in Nov. 6, 1941 as the Nazis bombed the city above.

Take the 3/Green line one station to:

2. Belorusskaya. Opened in 1952, named after the connected Belarussky Rail Terminal, which runs trains between Moscow and Belarus. This is a light marble affair with a white, cake-like ceiling, lined with Belorussian patterns and 12 Florentine ceiling mosaics depicting life in Belarussia when it was built.

Transfer onto the 1/Brown line. Then, one stop (clockwise) t o:

3. Novoslobodskaya.  This station was designed around the stained-glass panels, which were made in Latvia, because Alexey Dushkin, the Soviet starchitect who dreamed it up (and also designed Mayakovskaya station) couldn’t find the glass and craft locally. The stained glass is the same used for Riga’s Cathedral, and the panels feature plants, flowers, members of the Soviet intelligentsia (musician, artist, architect) and geometric shapes.

Go two stops east on the 1/Circle line to:

4. Komsomolskaya. Named after the Komsomol, or the Young Communist League, this might just be peak Stalin Metro style. Underneath the hub for three regional railways, it was intended to be a grand gateway to Moscow and is today its busiest station. It has chandeliers; a yellow ceiling with Baroque embellishments; and in the main hall, a colossal red star overlaid on golden, shimmering tiles. Designer Alexey Shchusev designed it as an homage to the speech Stalin gave at Red Square on Nov. 7, 1941, in which he invoked Russia’s illustrious military leaders as a pep talk to Soviet soldiers through the first catastrophic year of the war.   The station’s eight large mosaics are of the leaders referenced in the speech, such as Alexander Nevsky, a 13th-century prince and military commander who bested German and Swedish invading armies.

One more stop clockwise to Kurskaya station,  and change onto the 3/Blue  line, and go one stop to:

5. Baumanskaya.   Opened in 1944. Named for the Bolshevik Revolutionary Nikolai Bauman , whose monument and namesake district are aboveground here. Though he seemed like a nasty piece of work (he apparently once publicly mocked a woman he had impregnated, who later hung herself), he became a Revolutionary martyr when he was killed in 1905 in a skirmish with a monarchist, who hit him on the head with part of a steel pipe. The station is in Art Deco style with atmospherically dim lighting, and a series of bronze sculptures of soldiers and homefront heroes during the War. At one end, there is a large mosaic portrait of Lenin.

Stay on that train direction one more east to:

6. Elektrozavodskaya. As you may have guessed from the name, this station is the Metro’s tribute to all thing electrical, built in 1944 and named after a nearby lightbulb factory. It has marble bas-relief sculptures of important figures in electrical engineering, and others illustrating the Soviet Union’s war-time struggles at home. The ceiling’s recurring rows of circular lamps give the station’s main tunnel a comforting glow, and a pleasing visual effect.

Double back two stops to Kurskaya station , and change back to the 1/Circle line. Sit tight for six stations to:

7. Kiyevskaya. This was the last station on the Circle line to be built, in 1954, completed under Nikita Khrushchev’ s guidance, as a tribute to his homeland, Ukraine. Its three large station halls feature images celebrating Ukraine’s contributions to the Soviet Union and Russo-Ukrainian unity, depicting musicians, textile-working, soldiers, farmers. (One hall has frescoes, one mosaics, and the third murals.) Shortly after it was completed, Khrushchev condemned the architectural excesses and unnecessary luxury of the Stalin era, which ushered in an epoch of more austere Metro stations. According to the legend at least, he timed the policy in part to ensure no Metro station built after could outshine Kiyevskaya.

Change to the 3/Blue line and go one stop west.

8. Park Pobedy. This is the deepest station on the Metro, with one of the world’s longest escalators, at 413 feet. If you stand still, the escalator ride to the surface takes about three minutes .) Opened in 2003 at Victory Park, the station celebrates two of Russia’s great military victories. Each end has a mural by Georgian artist Zurab Tsereteli, who also designed the “ Good Defeats Evil ” statue at the UN headquarters in New York. One mural depicts the Russian generals’ victory over the French in 1812 and the other, the German surrender of 1945. The latter is particularly striking; equal parts dramatic, triumphant, and gruesome. To the side, Red Army soldiers trample Nazi flags, and if you look closely there’s some blood spatter among the detail. Still, the biggest impressions here are the marble shine of the chessboard floor pattern and the pleasingly geometric effect if you view from one end to the other.

Keep going one more stop west to:

9. Slavyansky Bulvar.  One of the Metro’s youngest stations, it opened in 2008. With far higher ceilings than many other stations—which tend to have covered central tunnels on the platforms—it has an “open-air” feel (or as close to it as you can get, one hundred feet under). It’s an homage to French architect Hector Guimard, he of the Art Nouveau entrances for the Paris M é tro, and that’s precisely what this looks like: A Moscow homage to the Paris M é tro, with an additional forest theme. A Cyrillic twist on Guimard’s Metro-style lettering over the benches, furnished with t rees and branch motifs, including creeping vines as towering lamp-posts.

Stay on the 3/Blue line and double back four stations to:

10. Arbatskaya. Its first iteration, Arbatskaya-Smolenskaya station, was damaged by German bombs in 1941. It was rebuilt in 1953, and designed to double as a bomb shelter in the event of nuclear war, although unusually for stations built in the post-war phase, this one doesn’t have a war theme. It may also be one of the system’s most elegant: Baroque, but toned down a little, with red marble floors and white ceilings with gilded bronze c handeliers.

Jump back on the 3/Blue line  in the same direction and take it one more stop:

11. Ploshchad Revolyutsii (Revolution Square). Opened in 1938, and serving Red Square and the Kremlin . Its renowned central hall has marble columns flanked by 76 bronze statues of Soviet heroes: soldiers, students, farmers, athletes, writers, parents. Some of these statues’ appendages have a yellow sheen from decades of Moscow’s commuters rubbing them for good luck. Among the most popular for a superstitious walk-by rub: the snout of a frontier guard’s dog, a soldier’s gun (where the touch of millions of human hands have tapered the gun barrel into a fine, pointy blade), a baby’s foot, and a woman’s knee. (A brass rooster also sports the telltale gold sheen, though I am told that rubbing the rooster is thought to bring bad luck. )

Now take the escalator up, and get some fresh air.

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21 Things to Know Before You Go to Moscow

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19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

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Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

• 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
• Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
• Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.