2019 dodge journey gt awd reviews

• Dodge Journey
• Used 2019 Dodge Journey
• Consumer Reviews

Used 2019 Dodge Journey Consumer Reviews

See Edmunds pricing data

Has Your Car's Value Changed?

Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.

Trending topics in reviews

• handling & steering
• reliability & manufacturing quality
• ride quality
• spaciousness
• acceleration
• infotainment system
• driving experience
• cup holders
• transmission
• fuel efficiency
• maintenance & parts

Tired of All the Negative Press!

When you look at a vehicle in this class you are looking for okay looks, good inside room and access, decent handling and gas mileage, and perhaps throw in the third seat. This Medium Sized SUV has all of that, and my three previous Journeys had been very reliable and needed minimal maintenance until I turned each in, at around 70K miles. I must add that the first iteration had some issues with the brakes wearing out prematurely, and not being quite up to the task of stopping this vehicle. The transmission also failed catastrophically at 50K, but was replaced under warranty by Dodge with no questions asked. Since that initial stab at it, Dodge has done major improvements in enlarging the disc brakes and creating a much more dependable transmission! This car is priced right, looks great in the bright red finish, has AWD and I am leaving most other drivers in the dust when I take off from a start or need to speed up at highway speeds (within reason that is!). I usually drive around 25K miles per year, up to 85 miles MPH and this car is stable even in substantial winds, gets a bit over 21 MPG and I am happy with it. No backup camera in my version, which is a company car, but aside from that inconvenience, it has everything that I need. And the Stereo is really something to hear, great bass. All in all, a very nice package and not one that matches the online reviews that I have seen. Let's get realistic and realize that this car is very popular (at least in car happy SoCal!) and is a great deal!

Dodge Journey SXT FWD 2.4L

The Dodge Journey is truly an exceptional vehicle. My wife has the Dodge Journey Crossroad V6 AWD, and that vehicle is a workhorse. I saw how well the vehicle drove especially with a newborn and a toddler traveling on major highways and roads with no issues regardless of any inclement weather. We drove the car cross country, and to Canada, and didn’t feel tired at all. It was time for me to purchase a new vehicle, and I was always a Subaru guy, but I fell in love with the Journey. It has great handling, no road noise, very comfortable ride. Good visibility, and commanding driving position. Many hiding compartments, and very easy to clean (Turtle wax interior, and Turtle wax ICE on the outside). I give this vehicle a 100% coming from owing two previous Subaru Outback’s. Well done Dodge!

Great mid size SUV & low price

I wanted to downgrade from my Ford Expedition Limited, so I looked at the Chevy traverse, the Ford Explorer & even a Nissan Pathfinder. All of those were great SUV’s but the price wasn’t what I wanted to pay. I rented a Dodge Journey to drive from Boston to SC for my nephews graduation from boot camp. It handled so well, got great gas mileage & had enough room for myself & my 2 children 11 & 8. In June I seen a black Journey Crossroad AWD with black rims & all black interior for sale & had to go look at it. It was exactly what I was looking for. It was sporty enough that it wasn’t just a mid-size SUV that you see everywhere & it stood out unlike all the rest. The price was just what I was looking to spend because downsizing from a Expedition was hard enough & I wanted to be more realistic w/maintenance after the warranty is up. No it does NOT have ALL the bells & whistles like heated/cooling seats, all electric seats, electronic push button trunk, sensor backup camera or a sunroof BUT it has the bells which was perfect for me. Yes I would love to have all the above, I mean who wouldn’t right, but not for $10-$15k more. I have had my Dodge Journey Crossroad AWD for 4 months now & I must say it’s amazing. It suits my family’s needs & I still have plenty of room for my 11yr old sons hockey bag & 2 sticks. I would recommend this SUV to anyone who wants something NEW but half the cost of the other competitors w/the 3rd row if your able to be ok with only having the bells.

Honestly Surprised

My wife and I had to by a new car. Since we have two kids (11&9) we wanted a small SUV. I did research and based on price and availability in our area and went to test out the 19 Ford Escape and 19 Jeep Renagade. They both seemed like fine cars, however, neither felt right. I saw a Black Dodge Journey and actually liked how it looked. But I remember looking at expert reviews online and the Journey was rated at the bottom. I decided to do more research on the Journey and also test drive it. We also test drove a Grand Cherokee for a class comparison. Online, the Journey was compared with midsized SUVs like the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Toyota Highlander so I felt it was only right to drive one and see the difference. When compared to the Grand Cherokee, the Journey was a lower standard SUV. The Cherokee had leather, a sun roof, and a larger touch screen and the Journey did not have leather or a sun roof and only a smaller touch screen. I also noticed that the online reviews of the Journey were for the 2.4L front wheel drive model and I test drove the 3.6L all-wheel drive model. It had the same engine as the Cherokee and drove very comparable, however, the Cherokee was a slightly better feeling ride. Another area the Journey received poor reviews was for compartment space. Since it has a third row, there is little room back there if the third row is used. However, we have no thoughts of using the third row and when laid flat, it has a ton of space. The tech is also behind the Cherokee but it still has more tech than any car I have owned. I do wish it had 1 thing, blue-tooth. When I compared the Journey to the Escape and Renagade, the Journey was much better in my opinion. I’m 37 so I like the look better since the Escape looks like a 20 year old Girls suv and the Renagade looks like a 20 boys suv. The Journey looks like a boring dad suv and that is exactly what I am. Lol. Not going to impress the guys at work but I am not worried about trying to compensate for anything. The price was almost the same as the two smaller suvs. We walked out of the dealer paying $24,000 for the V6 All-Wheel drive model. A few months in and we really like the Journey.

Don't believe the experts!!!!

Our Journey has been a pleasant suprise!!! After reading the expert reviews and then reading the reviews that people who actually own them, the opinions are so different!!! I have no problem with the acceleration, even when fully loaded. There is plenty of room in the first 2 rows for adults. The 3rd row suitable for kids. The ride is awesome!!! The cabin is quiet and the steering makes it feel like a much smaller suv. Absolutely love this suv!!! Forget the experts!!!

Related Used 2019 Dodge Journey info

Shop used vehicles in your area.

• Used Dodge Journey 2013
• Used Dodge Journey 2010
• Used Dodge Journey 2016
• Used Dodge Journey 2012
• Used Dodge Journey 2019
• Used Dodge Journey 2015
• Used Dodge Journey 2018
• Used Dodge Journey 2011
• Used Dodge Journey 2014
• Used Dodge Journey 2017

Popular new car reviews and ratings

• 2023 Impreza
• 2025 Honda Civic News
• 2023 Sedona
• 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class Coupe
• 2023 MX-5 Miata
• Lexus Is500
• 2023 Audi RS 5
• GT Shelby 500
• Cadillac XT6 2023
• 2023 Jeep Grand Wagoneer L

Other models to consider

• 2023 Dodge Charger
• 2023 Dodge Durango
• 2023 Challenger
• Dodge Challenger 2023
• 2023 Dodge Challenger
• 2024 Dodge Durango
• Dodge Durango

Research similar vehicles

• Volkswagen SUV Tiguan
• Grand Cherokee SUV
• Model X SUV
• 2023 Explorer
• Kia Sorento
• Mercedes G Wagon
• Range Rover
• Subaru Forester
• Chevy Tahoe V6
• Kia E Sportage

Other models

• Used Suzuki Sidekick in Prairieville, LA
• Used Land-Rover Discovery-Sport in Seymour, IN
• Used Lexus TX in Stroudsburg, PA
• New Mitsubishi Outlander-Phev for Sale in Omaha, NE
• Used Subaru Solterra in Hialeah, FL
• Used Karma GS-6 in Somerset, NJ
• Used Audi Q5-Sportback in Taylor, MI
• Used Cadillac Seville in Evanston, IL
• Used Toyota Fj-Cruiser in Dallas, TX
• Used Lexus RX-330 in Albertville, AL

Join Edmunds

Receive pricing updates, shopping tips & more!

Ad-free. Influence-free. Powered by consumers.

The payment for your account couldn't be processed or you've canceled your account with us.

We don’t recognize that sign in. Your username maybe be your email address. Passwords are 6-20 characters with at least one number and letter.

We still don’t recognize that sign in. Retrieve your username. Reset your password.

Forgot your username or password ?

Don’t have an account?

• Account Settings
• My Benefits
• My Products
• Donate Donate

Save products you love, products you own and much more!

Other Membership Benefits:

Suggested Searches

• Become a Member

Car Ratings & Reviews

2024 Top Picks

Car Buying & Pricing

Which Car Brands Make the Best Vehicles?

Car Maintenance & Repair

Car Reliability Guide

Key Topics & News

Listen to the Talking Cars Podcast

Home & Garden

Bed & Bath

Top Picks From CR

Best Mattresses

Lawn & Garden

TOP PICKS FROM CR

Best Lawn Mowers and Tractors

Home Improvement

Home Improvement Essential

Best Wood Stains

Home Safety & Security

HOME SAFETY

Best DIY Home Security Systems

REPAIR OR REPLACE?

What to Do With a Broken Appliance

Small Appliances

Best Small Kitchen Appliances

Laundry & Cleaning

Best Washing Machines

Heating, Cooling & Air

Most Reliable Central Air-Conditioning Systems

Electronics

Home Entertainment

FIND YOUR NEW TV

Home Office

Cheapest Printers for Ink Costs

Smartphones & Wearables

BEST SMARTPHONES

Find the Right Phone for You

Digital Security & Privacy

MEMBER BENEFIT

CR Security Planner

Take Action

Dodge Journey

Smaller than the typical mid-sized SUV, the Journey is a dated and mediocre performer. It rides decently and is fairly quiet, but that's about all. It suffers from a lack of agility, lousy fuel economy from the optional 3.6-liter V6, a reluctant transmission, and a tiny third-row seat. For the same sticker price of a V6-powered Journey, one can buy the much better Kia Sorento, but hefty discounts are the norm for the Journey. Poor IIHS small overlap crash-test results, subpar reliability and owner satisfaction add to the long list of demerits. Hefty discounts are common, but don't fall for this SUV that's soon to be put to pasture.

2019 SUVs Reliability

Chevrolet Travers...

Chevrolet Traverse

Ford Explorer

Honda Pilot

Subaru Ascent

Crash and Rollover Tests

Dodge vs. other new car brands, owner reports, 2019 midsized suvs 3-row ratings.

In most cases, automotive warranties are based on the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the warranty will be valid regardless of ownership. The dealership can tell you exactly how much warranty is left.

• 6-speed Automatic
• 4-speed Automatic
• 2.4-liter 4 (173 hp)
• 3.6-liter V6 (283 hp)

The 2011 reworking brought a much nicer interior and a better V6, but the lack of agility and still-mediocre fuel economy keep it out of the top ranks. Plus it was more expensive than many better rivals. Poor IIHS small overlap crash-test results and below average owner satisfaction add to the long list of demerits. Three row seating became standard for 2018.  Ultimately, we think you'd be better served looking at something else. The V6 engine and all-wheel drive were dropped in 2020 and the Journey finally came to an end.

Oops! You no longer have digital access to ratings and reviews.

Reactivate now to get the information you were looking for!

You will get digital access to reviews and ratings for over 8,500 products and services to help you make better choices for life’s big moments and the everyday ones in between.

If you feel you have received this message in error, please view our customer care FAQs or access your account information here.

• GT 4dr All-Wheel Drive

GT 4dr All-Wheel Drive 2019 Dodge Journey

Retail Price

Latest Journey News

More Journey Information

• All Model Years
• Journey News
• Book Values
• Dodge Dealers

2019 Dodge Journey trims (7)

(SE Value Package) 4dr Front-Wheel Drive

(SE) 4dr Front-Wheel Drive

(SE) 4dr All-Wheel Drive

(Crossroad) 4dr Front-Wheel Drive

(Crossroad) 4dr All-Wheel Drive

(GT) 4dr Front-Wheel Drive

(GT) 4dr All-Wheel Drive

Popular vehicles, featured makes, product guides.

• The Best Electric Bikes
• The Best Car Covers
• The Best Portable Air Compressors
• The Best Car GPS Trackers

Just One More Thing…

• Cars for Sale
• Research & Reviews
• News & Videos
• Sell Your Car
• Instant Offer
• Sign in with Google
• Sign in with Facebook
• Sign in with Apple
• 2019 Dodge Journey

Change year or car

starting MSRP

Base trim shown

Combined MPG

Seating capacity

View all  2019 Dodge Journey specs .

• Limited body roll
• Easy to maneuver
• 8.4-inch display’s simple interface
• Crossroad trim’s cabin materials and design
• V-6’s transmission can be hesitant to kick down
• Nonlinear braking response
• Some low-rent dashboard buttons
• Ride quality

Starting msrp listed lowest to highest price

Wondering which trim is right for you?

Our 2019 Dodge Journey trim comparison will help you decide.

Notable features

• More standard features for 2019
• Seating for seven in three rows
• Four-cylinder engine or available V-6
• Front- or all-wheel drive
• 8.4-inch touchscreen multimedia system available

2019 Dodge Journey review: Our expert's take

What is the 2019 dodge journey.

The Dodge Journey is a mid-size SUV that seats up to seven in three rows. Offered with standard front-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive, the Journey is powered by either a standard 173-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a four-speed automatic transmission or an available 283-hp, 3.6-liter V-6 with a six-speed automatic. Buyers can choose from three trim levels: SE, Crossroad and GT. Competitors include the Mitsubishi Outlander and the Kia Sorento.

What’s New on the 2019 Dodge Journey?

New standard features include foglights, three-zone climate control and LED taillights. The SE trim level also gets updated front and rear styling cues.

What Features in the 2019 Dodge Journey Are Most Important?

In-floor storage bins in the second row are standard, and the standard 60/40-split second row has a Tilt 'n Slide function for easier access to the two-person third row. The available 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen multimedia system is easy to use and can incorporate navigation capability. Families might be interested in the Journey's available rear-seat entertainment system with a 9-inch overhead screen.

Should I Buy the 2019 Dodge Journey?

Despite its easy-to-use 8.4-inch touchscreen system and versatile cabin, there's no denying that the Journey is aging — and aging hard. While its base price is certainly attractive, it’s important to not overlook the Journey’s mediocre reliability, unimpressive fuel economy and lack of increasingly common active safety features like blind spot warning and automatic emergency braking.

Consumer reviews

• Comfort 4.5
• Interior 4.3
• Performance 4.2
• Exterior 4.4
• Reliability 4.4

Most recent consumer reviews

2019 dodge journey gt awd purchased used for weeke.

I have not owned for very long but really enjoy it. Plenty of room and good mpg. I would recommend to anyone wanting a small suv.

• Comfort 4.0
• Interior 4.0
• Performance 4.0
• Exterior 4.0
• Reliability 4.0
• Purchased a Used car
• Used for Having fun
• Does recommend this car

Would not recommend to anyone

Poorly built car all mounts were shot at 32,000 miles tranny is xxxxing up at 45,000 so many stupid issues with this car it's unreal

• Comfort 2.0
• Interior 2.0
• Performance 1.0
• Exterior 3.0
• Reliability 3.0
• Used for Transporting family
• Does not recommend this car

I love this SUV

The Journey I purchased has all wheel drive and drives great in the snow. Its very roomy and has plenty of storage even in the floor. I really like the heated seats and steering wheel.

• Comfort 5.0
• Interior 5.0
• Performance 5.0
• Exterior 5.0
• Reliability 5.0
• Used for Commuting

NHTSA crash test and rollover ratings (scores out of 5)

Have questions about warranties or CPO programs?

Compare the competitors

2016 Chevrolet Traverse

2017 Chrysler Pacifica

2020 Kia Sedona

Latest 2019 journey stories, dodge journey: which should you buy, 2019 or 2020.

By Brian Wong

What’s the Best Deal on a Compact SUV in January 2020?

By Kelsey Mays

Best Labor Day Car Deals for 2019

All model years for the dodge journey.

• 2020 Dodge Journey
• 2018 Dodge Journey
• 2017 Dodge Journey
• 2016 Dodge Journey
• 2015 Dodge Journey
• 2014 Dodge Journey
• 2013 Dodge Journey
• 2012 Dodge Journey
• 2011 Dodge Journey
• 2010 Dodge Journey
• 2009 Dodge Journey

2019 Dodge Journey GT AWD Specs

# 21 out of 21 in 2019 affordable midsize suvs.

See Photos »

Average Price Paid

$ 13,507 - $ 22,512

Advertisement

Doors & Windows

Exterior Features

Measurements

Tires & Wheels

U.S. News Best Cars Awards

• Best Cars for the Money
• Best Cars for Families
• Best Vehicle Brands

Convenience & Comfort

Entertainment

Heating & Cooling

Navigation & Communication

Engine & Performance

Transmission

Safety Features

Other Years

Local inventory.

• 2020 Dodge Journey For Sale
• 2019 Dodge Journey For Sale
• 2018 Dodge Journey For Sale
• 2017 Dodge Journey For Sale
• 2016 Dodge Journey For Sale
• All Dodge Journey For Sale
• All Dodge For Sale

Car Payment Calculators

Use our tools to calculate monthly payments or figure out which cars you can afford.

2019 Dodge Journey

• Crash Tests

The Car Connection Expert Review

• Seven-seat capability
• Good optional infotainment
• Versatile interior
• Bad safety scores
• Limited features
• Underwhelming in almost every way

features & specs

The 2019 dodge journey has dropped entirely off our charts thanks to outdated style, safety, and technology..

The 2019 Dodge Journey posts a low base price and a fairly large cabin for up to seven passengers—and that’s all.

Woefully out of date in terms of safety, the 2019 Journey also doesn’t have much in the way of the latest features, and its styling has grown stale.

At a 2.0 out of 10, it’s one of the lowest-rated vehicles on our site. (Read more about how we rate cars .)

The Journey is still here, despite yearly rumors of its demise: Fiat Chrysler had planned to replace it long ago with a new vehicle, but all the attention’s gone to Jeep instead.

You’d be better off with a Jeep crossover, in any case—any one of them. The Journey still sports the same shape it has since 2009, albeit with an interior upgraded in the 2013 model year.

Powertrains haven’t changed either. The base Journey still sports an inline-4 coupled to a 4-speed automatic, a factoid we’ll be struggling to remember years from now in auto trivia contests. The V-6 model’s much better baked, and the Journey rides well enough, but you can do better.

The Journey’s ample interior presents the best pitch it has for new-car buyers. Four adults fit well, and five can sit inside without resorting to name calling and elbow shoving. The second-row seat slides to adjust cabin or cargo space, and there’s a third-row seat, though it’s sized only for kids.

Where the Journey face-plants is in safety. Crash-test scores are poor; there’s no automatic emergency braking; a rearview camera only became standard when the Feds forced the issue. It’s shy on other features, too; Dodge makes base Journey drivers pay for Bluetooth connectivity, and its 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system isn’t Android or Apple compatible, and won’t ever be.

2019 Dodge Journey Styling

The dodge journey's long in the tooth, and it shows..

Got your acid-wash jeans ready? Then you’re ready for a drive in the Dodge Journey, which hasn’t changed all that much since 2009, and seems almost ready for a throwback comeback, it’s been around so long.

It’s dowdy and we think there’s better for less. We give it a 3 for styling, knocking off a point each for the interior and exterior. (Read more about how we rate cars .)

At one time the Journey’s shape held up well, with its sort-of-Subaru look. The chunky body and squared-off grille complemented other Dodges with its faux ruggedness, even though the Journey isn’t meant at all for off-road driving. Base models get untinted glass and steel wheels, but dressed-up models carry less shame, with chrome roof rails and unpainted body cladding on the Crossroad version giving it its most contemporary look.

The cabin in the Journey is dull, painfully straightforward. The soft contour of the dash gets attractively grained plastics, and it’s not a terrible place to while away the hours and miles; it’s just not inspiring at all. The Journey Crossroad gets the most interesting treatment, with a leather-and-mesh trim.

2019 Dodge Journey Performance

The 2019 dodge journey falls behind most crossovers in performance, but rides reasonably well..

When it comes to performance, the Dodge Journey does best in ride quality. Its base powertrain is outdated, and its strong V-6 couples to an older automatic.

It’s a 4 for performance, with the rating based on the most popular V-6 model. (Read more about how we rate cars .)

The base 2019 Journey struggles for acceleration and attention. It offers a 2.4-liter inline-4 with 173 horsepower and 166 pound-feet of torque, and dates back to the last decade in its most recent iteration. It’s grumbly, groany, and not powerful enough to overcome about 4,000 pounds of curb weight. What’s more, on base models, it’s saddled with a 4-speed automatic that’s really a relic. It manages only meager acceleration, and only then when only a passenger or two are on board.

Optional or standard on all Journeys is a 283-hp 3.6-liter V-6 with 260 lb-ft of torque. It’s Dodge’s workhorse engine, and comes with front- or all-wheel-drive configurations and a 6-speed automatic. While better than the 4-speed, the 6-speed still is shy a few gears from vehicles in Dodge’s own family; it’s hardly state of the art. The V-6 puts up feisty acceleration, but the automatic confuses some commands for suggestions.

The Journey rides better than it scoots. It has old-school hydraulic power steering, rather than modern electric steering, so it has something in the way of feedback, with good on-center feel and natural unwind. That’s too esoteric for what it’s supposed to do, but any driver will recognize the comfortable, slightly soft ride it has on smaller wheels and tires, though it tends toward jiggly on the 19-inchers on GT models.

2019 Dodge Journey Comfort & Quality

The 2019 journey is at its best when four or five adults need a ride..

The 2019 Dodge Journey has more space than the average compact crossover, and lots of room for passengers in the first two rows of seats, not to mention their cargo in back.

We give it a 6 for comfort. (Read more about how we rate cars .)

The Dodge Journey’s standard front seats have six ways to adjust their angle and distance from the dash, but passengers don’t get control over their seat height. In the second row, two passengers will find good space and support, and a third might fit for a brief crosstown ride. The bench seat’s best tricks come when it slides on a track; space can be configured for better leg room or for more cargo space. The second-row seats can be fitted with child boosters, too.

The seatbacks fold down to expand cargo room, but the Journey’s slide-away mechanism is rudimentary, which means access to the cramped third-row seat isn’t easy.

In all, the Journey has 67.6 cubic feet of space behind the front seats, but when all the seats are in use, it has only 10.7 cubic feet of room behind the rearmost seat.

There’s plenty of room to store small items, including convenient under-seat storage bins in the second row’s floor.

The Journey isn’t a luxury ride, at all, but the cloth upholstery on base versions seems durable. Leather seats can be fitted to Crossroad and GT models, but we don’t recommend spending any more than you need, if you decide you need a Journey.

2019 Dodge Journey Safety

Safety 1 the 2019 journey is one of the lowest-rated vehicles for safety..

Safety should be a primary concern for any family vehicle, but the aged Dodge Journey just doesn’t compete on this critical scale.

Its limited technology and outdated body structure land at a 1 in this category, the lowest rating we’ve assigned. (Read more about how we rate cars .)

The 2019 Journey comes with a standard rearview camera, finally, but it doesn’t have anything like automatic emergency braking or forward-collision warnings. Fiat Chrysler long ago had planned to stop making the Journey, but it’s been kept around while the company designs new small crossovers. The Journey’s stayed too long at the party, from a safety perspective.

That’s confirmed by its crash-test ratings, which earn it a “Poor” rating for frontal impact protection on the IIHS’ tests. The NHTSA gives it a four-star overall score. It’s more competitive with old SUVs from the 1990s than it is with other new vehicles on sale today.

Used Dodge Journey for sale near

2019 dodge journey features, the journey lacks the amenities we’ve come to expect in crossovers..

Dodge has dropped the SXT from the 2019 Journey lineup, and added standard equipment to the base model.

The moves aren’t enough to keep the 2019 Journey from a 3 in features. It doesn’t have enough standard gear or options, and it misses out on lots of the latest features that drive sales to better crossover SUVs. (Read more about how we rate cars .)

The 2019 Journey SE costs about $26,000 and has standard LED taillights this year, as well as power mirrors, windows, and locks; a third-row seat; and a 4.3-inch touchscreen audio system with USB port. Dodge sells a CD player, Bluetooth connectivity, and rear-seat child boosters as options.

The Journey Crossroad is the best value of the lot. It wears unpainted body cladding, leather upholstery with mesh inserts, and gets a power driver seat, 19-inch wheels, satellite radio, and an 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system that’s not compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Options include rear parking sensors, navigation, and a rear-seat entertainment system.

Spend as much as you can on a Journey—more than $33,000— and the GT model adds heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a stiffer suspension. A trailer tow prep package is available. We don’t recommend the Journey, but we really don’t recommend this expensive trim.

2019 Dodge Journey Fuel Economy

Gas mileage is usually a crossover strength, but not here..

The EPA hasn’t confirmed the Journey’s gas mileage ratings yet for 2019, but they shouldn’t change much, if it at all.

We give it a 3 based on those carry-over figures, but we’ll update this section when data goes live. (Read more about how we rate cars .)

We base the rating of 3 on the most popular Journey, a V-6 with all-wheel drive. The most recent ratings for that version come in at 16 mpg city, 24 highway, 19 combined. With front-wheel drive it’s marginally better, at 17/25/19 mpg.

With front-wheel drive, a 2.4-liter inline-4, and an outdated 4-speed automatic, the Journey’s pegged at 19/25/21 mpg.

2019 Dodge Grand Caravan

2019 Kia Sorento

2019 Mitsubishi Outlander

2019 Nissan Rogue

2019 Volkswagen Tiguan

• Compare cars
• Cars For Sale
• Trucks For Sale
• Resource Center
• How We Rate Cars
• Buy Auto Leads
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Manage Preferences

2019 Dodge Journey GT AWD

Other trims.

17 Places to Visit in Moscow on a Budget

Looking for honest, low-cost tips on what to do in Moscow? Here is my suggestion on places to visit in Moscow, which I created during my three-month stay in this Russian metropole.

Before we jump to the top places to visit in Moscow let’s talk about the transportation you will need to use. Ideally, you should get a map of Moscow that includes the metro map. If you love to carry a printed version with you, I suggest getting the Lonely Planet Moscow Travel Guide that includes the metro map. If you are fine without it, you should at least download the offline version of Google Maps to make it easier to navigate in Moscow.

Without further ado, let’s dive into the best things to do in Moscow.

Table of Contents

1. Visit the Red Square

The Red Square is without a doubt the most iconic place to visit in Moscow. It is located in the heart of Moscow close to the metro station Ploshchad’ Revolyutsii (blue line) , surrounded by the Kremlin and the famous shopping center GUM.

From the Red Square you can also visit further points of interest such as the St. Basil’s Cathedral, Kremlin, the Lenin Mausoleum or the Bolshoi Moskevsky most , which is a great spot to take pictures from.

The Red Square is on top of the list of places to visit Moscow since you can’t skip this when doing some sightseeing in Moscow.

The St. Basil’s Cathedral is beautiful to look at but not as breathtaking from the inside. If you are on a budget it is not a “must-visit” place in Moscow.

Click here to bookmark the location of the Red Square

2. Visit Lenin’s Mausoleum

Right in the middle of the Red Square, you will notice a strange building which will remind you on a pyramid. This is Lenin’s Mausoleum.

I highly recommend you to not skip this tourist attraction in Moscow. It’s an experience by itself. The area is surrounded by Russian soldiers which monitor every step you make.

Just make sure you are polite and show some respect when visiting Lenin’s Mausoleum.

There are no entry fees and it’s open daily from 10:00 to 13:00h. Be aware however that it is closed on Mondays and Fridays.

Click here to bookmark the location of Lenin’s Mausoleum

3. Try Russian Food at Teremok

The easiest and cheapest way to try local food is to go to the Russian fast food chain Teremok. You can find them everywhere. There is also one located close to Red Square.

It is a great opportunity to grab some food if you plan on taking the free walking tour , that ends right at Alexander’s Garden. Even if you like to explore Moscow on yourself. Alexander’s Garden is a great spot to watch the change of the guards, which might be of interest to you.

When it comes to Russian food I suggest you go for the Blini (Russian pancakes filled with various toppings) and Syrniki (Russian dessert made from cheesecake).

You can find the Teremok food court in the underground shopping mall next to the Alexander Garden. Learn more about the food I tried in Russia here.

Click here to bookmark the location of the Alexander’s Garden

4. Walk Through the City Center

The great things about Moscow city center are that you can walk to many points of interest by foot. Be aware however that the city center is quite big. Bring enough water with you to keep hydrated. Especially during the summer, it can get very hot.

From Alexander’s Garden, you can walk up the street to Bolshoi Theater and Tverskaya street. I personally enjoyed exploring the side streets where there isn’t too much traffic. You will find a lot of coffee places and local shops that will give you a sneak peek into Russian culture.

If you decide to visit the Bolshoi Theater you can view what’s being performed here . The tickets are usually around 3ooo rubles.

Click here to bookmark the location of the Bolshoi Theater

5. Walk to the Arbat Street

When exploring Moscow you should not miss the Arbat district with its icon Arbat street .

This one-kilometer long street belongs to the oldest streets in Moscow and is the place where you can spot local artist and musicians.

It is one of my favorite streets as it is for pedestrians only so you will not be bothered by any traffic. The best way to get there is by taking the metro blue line to Arbatskaja or walk from Red Square.

Click here to bookmark the location of Arbat street

6. Visit “Moscow City” the Highest Towers in Europe

If you want to admire some “modern” architecture, go see the Moscow city. It’s a complex of the highest skyscrapers in Europe. Apart from the skyscrapers, there is however not much to see.

If you have the budget and enjoy a nice view of the city you can visit the rooftop bar called, Sixty Bar which is located on the 60th floor in one of the towers at Moscow City. , The closest metro station to Moscow city is called Vystavochnaya (light blue line).

If you are on a tight time schedule, you can skip this attraction.

7. Visit VDNKH and the Museum of Cosmonautics

A place yo need to visit in Moscow is the VDNKH complex and the Museum of Cosmonautics. It is one of my favorite places to visit in Moscow.

The Museum of Cosmonautics tells the story behind Russian space exploration. You can also learn about the two dogs Belka and Strelka that made it to space. The entrance is only 200 rubles which is a good deal.

VDNKh is an amusement and exhibition park and in winter the home of the largest ice skating rink in Russia. The atmosphere at VDNKh is great.

Both points of interest are close to each other. The closest metro station is called Prospekt Mira.

Click here to bookmark the location of VDNKh

8. Visit Zarizyno Park

Moscow is full of beautiful parks, one of them is called Tsaritsyno. It’s located approximately one hour south of the city center. If you feel like escaping the noise of busy Moscow this is the place to relax and connect with nature.

You can get to Zarizyno Park with the green line all the way to the Metro Station Tsaritsyno.

Be aware that the visit of the Zarizyno Park will probably take you at least 4 to 5 hours as the park is quite big and it takes a while to get there.

Click here to bookmark the location of the Zarizyno-Park

9. Visit Kolomenskoye

Another place to visit in Moscow is the former royal estate complex called Kolomenskoye. This place is a bit off the beaten path and is usually not visited by many tourists. You can connect the visit with the above mentioned Zarizyno Park if you have some days left in Moscow and you need a break from the city center.

The walk around Kolomenskoye gives you a better impression of the Russian culture as it is located in one of Moscow’s suburbs.

Click here to bookmark the location of Kolomenskoye

10. Visit the Gorki Park the Riverside of Moskva

Closer to the city center, right next to the river Moskva you will find Gorki Park. In summer this spot is the place to go, relax, socialize and enjoy the vibes at the river. In winter it’s a great spot for ice skating.

It is a good place for a date as well :)

Click here to bookmark the location of Gorki Park

11. Watch an Ice Hockey Game

If you happen to be in Moscow around the ice hockey season you need to visit one of the games. A thing to do in Russia is to see a KHL ice hockey game.

The atmosphere is absolutely worth it. The tickets start at 200 rubles and you can buy it in front of the stadium or buy it online. View the schedule of upcoming games here .

Click here to bookmark the location of the VTB Arena

12. Visit the Moscow State University MGU

The building of the Lomonosov Moscow State University is one of the seven sisters, a group of seven skyscrapers which look the same. If you ever visit Moscow you will notice that there are few buildings which look alike.

This one is located south of the city close to the metro station Universitet and Vorobyovy Gory. You will need to walk for another 40 minutes from the metro station to get there.

The building is quite impressive, unfortunately, you can’t access it without a valid student ID, but you can enjoy the view over the city from the observation deck in front of it.

I would suggest visiting this place also only if you have more days to spare in Moscow as it’s quite far from other points of interest.

Click here to bookmark the location of the MGU

13. Izmaylovo Kremlin and Market

A place that you should however not skip is the Izmaylovo Kremlin.

Did you know that Moscow has more than one Kremlin? This one is located in the east at the metro station Partizanskaja (dark blue line).

I personally prefer this Kremlin over the one on Red Square, which is not worth visiting in my opinion. Izmaylovo Kremlin is however definitely a place to visit in Moscow.

At the Izmaylovo Kremlin, you can find a market where people sell various Russian products. It’s also a great place to buy some souvenirs for a much better price than in the center. Here you can always negotiate if you dare :)

Apart from the market, you need to try another Slavic specialty Shashlik, the best one I have had in Russia was here. The Izmaylovo Kremlin is a must-visit place in Moscow.

You can also walk through the nearby park from where you can have a quite impressive view on the Kremlin.

Click here to bookmark the location of the Izmaylovo Kremlin

14. Visit Krutitskoe Podvorye

Krutitskoe Podvorye is another off the beaten path attraction. It’s a historical building, built some 400 years ago although it looks much older.

It’s really impressive and worth the visit if you have time to spare in Moscow. It’s a few minutes walk from the metro station Proletarskaya (purple line).

Click here to bookmark the location of the Krutitskoe Podvorye

15. Explore Novodevichy Convent

Similar to the visit of Krutitskoe Podvorye Novodevichy Convent is also a place to visit if you have planned more time for Moscow. It is probably the best-known cloister in Moscow.

It’s interesting to look at and surrounded by a lake which creates a cozy atmosphere. From here you can also get a nice view of the skyline with the Moscow City in the background.

Click here to bookmark the location of the Novodevichy Convent

16. Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is by far the most impressive cathedral in Moscow. It’s gigantic and absolutely worth the visit.

You should definitely include it to your list of things to do in Moscow. It’s just a short walk from Kremlin and the entrance is free.

Click here to bookmark the location of the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

17. Moscow’s Metro Tour

If you have not noticed yet, Moscow is also known for the most beautiful metro stations.

All of them are unique in their own way. My favorite is the Mayakovskaya station (dark green line).

You can read more about metro sightseeing in Moscow in my post about Metro sightseeing in Moscow . If you happen to be in Moscow on a rainy weekend, driving around and do some sightseeing of Moscow’s metro station can be a fun thing to do. During the week it’s mostly too crowded to be able to even take a picture of the metro station.

If you are intersted in to learn about the stories of Moscow’s metro, I suggest you book a guided tour. 

Planning a short trip to Moscow?

As you can imagine, to visit all of the above-mentioned places in Moscow is not possible within a few days. If you plan to stay in Moscow just for about three to four days these are the places you need to visit in Moscow.

Places to visit in Moscow in three days:

• Red Square, Alexander’s Garden, Lenin’s Mausoleum, Cathedral of the Christ the Saviour
• Izmaylovo Kremlin and Market, Gorki park, Arbat street
• VDNKH and the Museum of Cosmonautics

Here are a few suggestions for accommodation for your trip to Moscow:

Hostels from 8,76 EUR per night: Godzillas Hostel / Vagabond Hostel / Kremlin Lights

Mid-Range from 61 EUR per night: Holiday Inn Moscow Sokolniki / Vega Izmailovo Hotel & Convention Center / Moscow Point – Red October

Luxury from 99 EUR per night: Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre / Hotel Sadovnicheskaya / Savoy

This post about things to do in Moscow covers the most interesting places I have visited during my three months stay in Moscow.

What I love about this city is that most of the activities are for free compared to many other western cities where you need a much higher budget.

Travelers who only have a few hours to explore Moscow should book a tour to get the most of their time. This Moscow Tour covers all the major sights of the city in one day. 

If you plan to visit St. Petersburg don’t forget to check my post about cool places to visit here .

Leave a comment

Related Posts

8 Cool Things To Do In Brussels

What to do in Prague in 2 days – A local’s itinerary

Traveling to Iceland – What SIM Card Should You Get

19 comments.

I did 15 out of 17 and can say, that everything is worth seeing. Nice list :-)

Thanks Markus, I am glad you enjoyed it :)

Wow, Moscow has so much to offer! :) I bet some of those things are free of charge. Me and Cez are planning to visit the city this summer. We would definitely visit the Gorky Park and walk at the riverside of Moskva :)!

indeed Agness :) be sure to plan a longer stay, Moscow is huge and it takes quite some time to see everything, if you have the time also check out St. Petersburg, you can get there by train (cheap if you book in advance) if you need some help with that let me know :)

Wow! Moscow looks beautiful, I have always wanted to visit Russia. St. Petersburg in particular. One day… Thanks for sharing your journey

You are welcome Shelly, I am glad you like it, St. Petersburg is great, you will love it. I have also published a post about Things to do in St. Petersburg feel free to check it out if you want :)

Thank you for a nice list. I really hope to be able to visit Moscow one day soon :)

Glad I could help you out :)

By chance we found the Cosmonautic Museum is free on the 3rd Sunday in every month. Moscow is just unbelievable…I need to go back to see more.

I did not know that, thanks for your comment, I am glad you enjoyed the city :)

Thank you for the article. These are all I want to see in Moscow. I am sure I will like their food.

You are welcome Kishor, my favorite food experience was at Izmaylovo Kreml, go for saslik :)

So many architectural gems! Even their metros look like art galleries. Will totally use these recommendations, thanks!!

Thanks for the interesting and helpful article. I am in Moscow right now with my teenage son and we’re looking for more things to do. Now we have few more ideas! Thank you!

You are welcome Joanna, enjoy the trip :)

I am gonna visit Moscow this June. But I will be there for only 5 days. I don’t think I will be able to cover it all in just 5 days. So, which ones are must visit places out of these? I am curious. And are there any places where we can interact with the locals and experience true Russian culture? Thanks for this post though! I am very excited!

Hi Lakshya, 5 days is indeed to short for Moscow. It takes at least two weeks to explore the city (visit the main points of interest). Definitely check out the (day 1) red square, mausoleaum, (day 2) vdnkh, (day 3) Izmaylovo Kremlin, (day 4) Arbatskaya street. While moving through the city you will have the chance to explore the Metro stations as well (better on the weekends when it’s not that busy). Also check out one of their “Anti-cafe” concepts such as the one called Ziferblat :)

Very interesting & informative. Plan to visiting Russia end of December this year. 5 days Moscow, 4 days St. Petersburg, and 5 days Murmanks. Thanks 🙏❤

Hope you will enjoy it! Don’t forget to get some shashlik ;)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Latest posts

P2p lending in europe for u.s. & uk investors, 7 strategies to avoid cash drag, p2p lending & buyback guarantee explained, reviews of p2p platforms i use.

• What's My Car Worth?
• Buyer's Guide

2024 Volvo XC90

Starting at .css-1ykuyyb{font-size:1.125rem;line-height:1.2;margin-left:0.25rem;}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1ykuyyb{color:#000000;}} $57,895.

Select a year

• Lows Cramped third row, middling infotainment system, options add up.
• Verdict Despite its age, the Volvo XC90 continues to impress with its attractive design, high-quality insides, and versatile interior.

Where This Vehicle Ranks

Genesis GV80

Porsche Cayenne

What's New for 2024?

The 2024 Volvo XC90 is a largely carryover model. That said, Volvo makes a handful of small changes to the SUV's features and options menus, the most notable of which is the demise of the Dark theme and its black exterior trim pieces. The Bright theme and its chrome bits live on, though. Other updates include the likes of standard laminated side windows on the top-spec Ultimate trim and a newly available 22-inch wheel and tire package for the turbocharged and supercharged XC90 B6 Ultimate.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

The price of the 2024 Volvo XC90 starts at $57,895 and goes up to $80,895 depending on the trim and options.

Volvo allows for a decent amount of configurability when it comes to building the perfect XC90, but to find a good balance of opulence, price, and power we’d suggest starting with the Plus trim, adding the optional 295-hp B6 powertrain, and sticking with the cheaper seven-passenger bench-seat layout instead of paying for second-row captain’s chairs.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Even the B5 and B6 powertrains receive help from a 48-volt electric motor. B5 models feature a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine good for 247 horsepower. Moving up to the B6 powertrain, available on Plus and standard on Ultimate trim levels, increases output to 295 horsepower. The 455-hp plug-in-hybrid XC90 Recharge is the most powerful of the group. All-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission come with every XC90, no matter the trim level or powertrain. A Recharge shot to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds at our test track. As with many vehicles in this class, the Volvo leans noticeably around curves, but its steering responses are accurate and the wheel has a pleasing heft that splits the difference between feather-light and heavyweight. Our test car had the optional air suspension, which provided a pleasant, insulated ride. It also handled most road situations well. Some clattering from the chassis over particularly sharp bumps betrays minor road imperfections, one of only a few grievances with the otherwise graceful XC90.

Towing and Payload Capacity

Those interested in pulling boats, trailers, and other toys should be aware not every XC90 is capable of the model’s 5000-pound max tow rating. While every XC90 with the 295-hp B6 powertrain and XC90 Recharge can pull that much, XC90s with the base 247-hp B5 powertrain max out at 4000 pounds.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

With the exception of its plug-in powertrain, the XC90 achieves similar fuel-economy ratings to many of its six-cylinder competitors. Last year, the 247-hp B5 powertrain earned an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city and 28 highway, while XC90s with the 295-hp B6 powertrain returned 20 city and 26 mpg highway ratings. The XC90 Recharge netted an EPA-rated 66 MPGe. It can also go for as far as 36 miles on battery power, according to the EPA. During our 75-mph real-world highway fuel-economy test, the XC90 Recharge fell short of its EPA rating , earning just 58 MPGe and traveling 29 miles on battery power. For more information about the XC90's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website .

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The XC90's interior is a masterpiece of the medium, featuring an attractive design and high-quality materials. We wish there were more vehicles like this. Adults won't be happy in the third row, especially if the journey is long. The XC90's wide, boxy silhouette helps in the cargo-hauling department, but interior compartments aren't as cavernous as in some competitors.

Infotainment and Connectivity

A handsome, tablet-like 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system is standard in all XC90s. Every model has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability; a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot is optional. Additional redundant hard buttons, as well as more intuitive on-screen controls, would notably improve its functionality.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Overall safety rating (nhtsa).

Volvo's commitment to safety is legendary, and its three-row crossover has a loaded roster of driver-assistance technology . For more information about the XC90's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ( NHTSA ) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety ( IIHS ) websites. Key safety features include:

• Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
• Standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
• Standard lane-departure warning

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The XC90 has a merely average warranty plan versus competitors. However, Volvo outdoes them by offering excellent complimentary scheduled maintenance.

• Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• Electrical components are covered for eight years or 100,000
• Complimentary maintenance is covered for three years or 36,000 miles

Specifications

2022 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 Extended Range Vehicle Type: front-engine, rear-motor, all-wheel-drive, 7-passenger, 4-door wagon

PRICE Base/As Tested: $66,895/$84,090 Options: Inscription package (Nappa leather, heated and ventilated front seats, wood deco inlay, 20-inch wheels, tailored dashboard and upper door panels, Harman/Kardon premium sound, four-zone climate control), $6300; Bowers & Wilkens premium sound, $3200; air suspension, $1800; Lounge package (Nubuck headliner, massaging front seats), $1700; Advanced package (air purifier, head-up display, surround view camera), $1650; 21-inch wheels, $800; Climate package (heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, headlight washers), $750, Pine Grey Metallic paint, $695; integrated center booster cushion for second row, $300

POWERTRAIN turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve 2.0-liter inline-4, 312 hp, 295 lb-ft + AC motor, 143 hp, 228 lb-ft (combined output: 455 hp, 523 lb-ft; 14.9-kWh lithium-ion battery pack; 3.7-kW onboard charger) Transmissions: 8-speed automatic/direct-drive

CHASSIS Suspension, F/R: control arms/multilink Brakes, F/R: 14.4-in vented disc/13.4-in vented disc Tires: Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season 275/40R-21 107W M+S VOL

DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 117.5 in Length: 195.0 in Width: 75.7 in Height: 69.9 in Passenger Volume: 132 ft 3 Cargo Volume: 11 ft 3 Curb Weight: 5194 lb

C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 4.5 sec 100 mph: 11.3 sec 1/4-Mile: 13.1 sec @ 107 mph Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec. Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 5.0 sec Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 2.6 sec Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 3.3 sec Top Speed (gov ltd): 115 mph Braking, 70–0 mph: 184 ft Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.81 g

C/D FUEL ECONOMY Observed: 29 MPGe 75-mph Highway Driving, EV/Hybrid Mode: 58 MPGe/28 mpg 75-mph Highway Range, EV/Hybrid mode: 29/520 mi

EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/City/Highway: 26/25/27 mpg Combined Gasoline + Electricity: 66 MPGe EV Range: 36 mi

.css-190qir1:before{background-color:#000000;color:#fff;left:0;width:50%;border:0 solid transparent;bottom:48%;height:0.125rem;content:'';position:absolute;z-index:-10;} Shopping Tools .css-188buow:after{background-color:#000000;color:#fff;right:0;width:50%;border:0 solid transparent;bottom:48%;height:0.125rem;content:'';position:absolute;z-index:-10;}

Similar vehicles, .css-gpjca5{-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;margin:0rem;} 2025 genesis gv80.

Starting at $59,000 est · 10/10

Starting at $59,050 · 10/10

Starting at $56,925 · 10/10

2024 Porsche Cayenne

Starting at $80,850 · 9.5/10

Starting at $73,650 · 9.5/10

2025 BMW X5

Starting at $66,695 · 9.5/10

Starting at $66,195 · 9.5/10

Starting at $62,595 · 9.5/10

2024 Lexus GX

Starting at $64,250 · 9/10

Starting at $60,025 · 5/10

2025 BMW X6

Starting at $75,495 · 9/10

Starting at $74,895 · 9/10

2024 Lexus TX Hybrid

2024 Lexus TX

2024 Porsche Cayenne Coupe

Starting at $85,950

Starting at $82,150 · 8.5/10

2025 Audi Q7

Starting at $61,695 · 8/10

Starting at $60,695 · 8/10

2024 Land Rover Range Rover Sport

Starting at $85,075 · 8.5/10

Starting at $84,475 · 8.5/10

2024 Land Rover Defender

Starting at $57,875 · 8/10

Starting at $54,975 · 8/10

2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Starting at $150,000 est · 8/10

Starting at $144,150 · 8/10

Starting at $141,050 · 8/10

More From Volvo

2026 volvo es90.

2025 Volvo EC40

Starting at $55,000 est

Starting at $54,895 · 7.5/10

Starting at $56,395 · 7.5/10

Starting at $59,845 · 7.5/10

2025 Volvo EX30

2025 Volvo EX90

2024 Volvo V90 Cross Country

Starting at $60,995 · 8.5/10

Starting at $59,545 · 8.5/10

Starting at $57,295 · 8.5/10

Starting at $55,995 · 8.5/10

Starting at $55,545 · 8.5/10

Starting at $53,545 · 8/10

Starting at N/A · 8/10

2025 Volvo EX40

Starting at $54,000 est

Starting at $53,745 · 7.5/10

Starting at $54,645 · 7.5/10

Starting at $52,795 · 7.5/10

Starting at $55,085 · 8/10

2024 Volvo XC40

Starting at $41,795 · 9.5/10

Starting at $37,445 · 9.5/10

Starting at $36,195 · 9.5/10

Starting at $34,795 · 9.5/10

Starting at $34,695 · 9.5/10

Starting at $34,695 · 9/10

2024 Volvo S60

Starting at $43,645 · 8/10

Starting at $42,395 · 8/10

Starting at $40,295 · 8/10

Starting at $39,995 · 8/10

Starting at $37,045 · 8/10

Starting at $36,795 · 7/10

Starting at $35,095 · 7/10

Starting at $34,945 · 7/10

2024 Volvo S90

Starting at $59,495 · 8/10

Starting at $58,095 · 8/10

Starting at $53,895 · 8/10

Starting at $52,595 · 7.5/10

Starting at $51,545 · 7.5/10

Starting at $49,095 · 8/10

Starting at N/A · 9/10

2024 Volvo V60 / V60 Cross Country

Starting at $51,495 · 8.5/10

Starting at $49,895 · 8.5/10

Starting at $47,295 · 8.5/10

Starting at $42,045 · 8.5/10

Starting at $40,645 · 8.5/10

Starting at N/A · 8.5/10

Starting at $39,245 · 7/10

Starting at $37,145 · 7/10

2024 Volvo XC60

Starting at $48,195 · 9/10

Starting at $44,545 · 9/10

Starting at $43,745 · 9/10

Starting at $42,795 · 9/10

Starting at $41,145 · 9/10

Starting at $40,795 · 8/10

Starting at N/A · 7/10

Starting at N/A · 6/10

17 Exciting Things to do in Moscow

Written By: Linda Voltaire

Updated On: December 21, 2022

Visiting Russia? These are the top 17 things to do in Moscow to help you plan your trip.

If the western world has New York City , the first great metropolis on the eastern side of our planet is Moscow. A huge city with a complicated and impressive history, Moscow gets a bad rep over Russian politics – but that doesn’t make it any less impressive. Capital to the largest country in the world, Moscow takes the grandeur of its standing very seriously.

This is a place where luxury is king and where opulence takes a front seat in every aspect of life. The buildings are grand and imposing, the parks are luscious and enormous, and even the subway stations look different in Moscow than anywhere else in the world.

Table of Contents

Best Things to do in Moscow, Russia

Walking around Moscow is also going through the tumultuous history of the 20th century, which had Russia as one of its main protagonists. There are fascinating remains of these times everywhere in the former Soviet capital, from the gorgeous Seven Sisters skyscrapers to the Orthodox cathedrals that were closed for the better part of a century.  Still, Moscow is also a completely modern city, with a vibrant social and party scene, incredible restaurants, and some of the most luxurious hotels in the world.

After living in Russia’s capital as an ex-pat for four years, I got the privilege to experience not only the main attractions in Moscow but also the everyday life in this huge city and quickly found my sweat spots off the beaten tracks! So here is my list of my top 17 things to do in this exciting metropolis!

Attractions in Moscow

When visiting a famous city like this one, it’s a must to go through the most iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin & Surrounding Area

No place tells the story of Moscow’s power in the past century the way the Red Square does. This is where the biggest political meetings in the USSR occurred for many decades, and you can feel the power on each step.

Here, you’ll also find the historic museum at the entrance, showcasing the decades of history behind this iconic landmark. The Lenin Mausoleum, perhaps the most famous resting place in the world and home to the remains of the former communist leader, is also here.

On one side of the Red Square you’ll find the Kremlin, the fortified complex that now hosts the presidential residence. This is also home to the most iconic of all Moscovite landmarks: St. Basil’s Cathedral, a 16th-century marvel of colors. This is the best spot to take a selfie and show the world you’ve reached the Russian capital!

• Get your Kremlin Skip the Line Tickets and Kremlin tour here.
• Free cancellation up to 24-hours in advance of the tour.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

You can easily spend a couple of days just exploring the Moscovite city centre, and the Bolshoi Theatre should be your second stop. Walk past the Red Square and then head to the nearby Bolshoi Theatre, one of the oldest and most renowned houses of opera and ballet on Earth.

Visit for the impressive early 19th-century architecture, but if you’re seeing a ballet performance, make sure you book between 3 and 6 months in advance! I can strongly recommend this as it is a truly unique experience!

• Book a private 2-hour tour of the legendary Bolshoi Theatre.
• See the presidential box reserved for tzars, watch a rehearsal and skip the lines through a separate entrance.
• Free Cancellation up to 24-hours in advance.

3. Luxury Shopping at GUM and TSUM

While many might think of Moscow as the sad place with the long bread queues from the USSR days, it’s been quite the capitalist haven for a while.

If you’re up for some shopping, you’ll find one of the biggest luxury malls in town, TSUM, right behind the Bolshoi and GUM, at the red square. GUM is the most famous department store in town, where you’ll find luxury everywhere and all high-end brand. 

All in an imposing late 19th-century building with lots of history, worth a visit just for the design, its bridges and the glass roof even though you are not up for shopping!

4. Christ the Savior Cathedral

A newer addition to the gorgeous Moscovite cathedrals and my grandeur neighbor during my years in the city Don’t let the young age of this building fool you. After the perestroika in the early 90s, the newly revived Russian Orthodox Church received permission to build a cathedral on this site. They 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 as tall as the skies in bright gold and gorgeous paintings and decor! Bring a shawl to cover your hair to adjust to the local tradition.

Head to the back of the cathedral and you will find one of the most photographed bridges in Moscow, the Patriarshiy Most. This is the perfect spot to get a good view and photo of the cathedral but also to see the Kreml and Gorky Park from a distance. Or why not just enjoy a moment watching the river and its boats!  

• Get around Moscow with ease using the Hop On Hop Off boat and Bus ticket. 24, 48 or 72-hour tickets available.

5. Gorky Park

Cross the river and head to Gorky Park along the Moscow river. The most famous green area in town, similar to New York ’s Central Park and the weekend hangout for locals. There are many beautiful parks in the city, but if you’re only visiting for a few days, this is the unmissable one! 

With fair attractions to entertain children, beautiful artificial lakes and gardens, and lots of outdoor activities, it’s a lovely place to relax. A place of rest in the middle of the metropolis. The area in front of the New Tretyakov Gallery & the Muzeon Park of Arts is actually one of my favorite oasis as a bit more quiet and peaceful than Gorky itself.

Why not spend some time in the museum to get a great tour of Russia’s history through art or just enjoy the art exhibition outside where local artists spend their weekends. 

6. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow is from the Moscow River. There are many stops for the boats and one is just next to Gorky Park. See the city from another perspective – and turn the ride into a romantic one by taking the evening cruise. Moscow is magic during the night.

If you’re looking for a truly luxurious experience, take the Radisson Blu cruise – or the Erwin for a delicious seafood dinner. Both stop at Gorky or at the luxury Radisson Royal Hotel, set in one of the Seven Sister’s skyscrapers.

• We use Get Your Guide when booking city tours and they offer a River Sightseeing Cruise seeing all the main tourist attractions in Moscow

7. Metro Hopping

First inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow subway system is one of the oldest in the world, and certainly the most beautiful. Started under Stalinist times, each metro station is dedicated to grandeur and oozing personality.

Visiting the subway stops is an attraction in and of itself, and Komsomolskaya, Mayakovskaya, Kropotkinskaya are my favorites. Those surrounding the Red Square are also mesmerizing – in general, these are kind of like underground palaces.

Most of the signs at the Moscow Metro now have Latin letters, so it’s very easy to get around!Unfortunately, the trains are not as beautiful and pleasant as the stations but still, this is a true Moscow experience.  Take a guided tour of the 9 most beautiful Metro Stations including the award-winning art deco station. See more details here.

8. Arbatskaya & Artsy Moscow

Novy Arbat Street is one of the most touristy areas in the city, with lots of shops and cafés directed at visitors. When you walk a little beyond, you’ll find a different part of town, where the hip scene thrives because so many artists live in the area. Just follow the small streets with fewer tourists!

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 hosts the main building of the Moscow State University, one of the most prestigious colleges in Russia – and the one with the best view.

Although this is a little outside the city centre, the sight from above is more than worth it, with the nearby fountains and park and then the whole of the city behind them.

10. Russian Market

If you love to visit markets wherever you go, Moscow has one of the most impressive ones in the world – the Izmailovsky. You can easily take the metro here and feel like you’ve been transported to another time.

This place was first built in the 16th century and retains the look of an old fairytale, with a lineup of colorful old castle. A lovely local experience beyond the confines of the bustling metropolis, where you can also try some delicious Russian barbecue.

Here, you’ll find beautiful souvenirs at great prices.

Off The Beaten Track Moscow

Once you’ve covered the most touristic spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer – and the places below will also be full of locals! Moscow is a city for hipsters, full of trendy and arty spots where you can literally feel the creativity oozing! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend my sweat spots below!

11. Patriarshiye Prudy

This is my favorite area in the entire city! While Moscow is generally a very noisy metropolis, Patriarch Ponds is far quieter, yet such a vibrant place. This is a very hip and trendy area making you think you are rather in Paris than in Moscow. Here the streets are narrow and full of chic eateries and clubs to see the local crowd.

A little bohemian and with an air of peace you won’t find anywhere in the city this is a great spot to spend an afternoon with your thoughts.

12. ArtPlay

Barely 15 minutes away from the city center you’ll find the artsiest Moscow district: ArtPlay. For decades, this block was a factory, but it was renovated to become a hub for the arts not too long ago.

Now, you’ll find it’s full of exhibitions, showrooms and art schools – and some of the most creative people in town. Writers, painters, and young hip people use ArtPlay as a rendezvous, and you can feel the creative energy here. The industrial design with modern interior decoration is also a feast for the eyes!

13. Shopping Local Designs

If you’re into design, both international and local, you’ll find lots of cute things at Patriarshiye Prudy. Department store Podium Market is also a great spot for shopping, as a department store everywhere in town, with lots of local and international brands. There’s one in the Four Seasons Hotel next to Red Square. My favorite Moscow mall is Tsvetnoy Central Market, a cool spot with great brands, lots of inspo, and even a cute café!

14. Moscow City

Like many other great capitals of the world, for the past few decades, Moscow has hosted a super modern area full of modern skyscrapers – Moscow City. With a completely different vibe than the rest of town, it’s like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressively tall glass buildings. Here, you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, such as Ruski and Sixty they are perfect spots for dining or enjoying a glass of wine with a view. There are also a relatively new shopping mall with lots of international brands called Affimall!

Wine, Dine, and Party in Moscow

Gone are the gloomy Moscow days – cold as it might be in the winter, Russia’s capital is a place for the senses. Great food and drinks abound – and the clubs are hot, too!

15. Where to Eat in Moscow

Moscow is a great metropolis where people love to dine out, and there are endless options for delicious food. The flavors are as diverse as you’d expect from a big city, with options of fine dining and little hipster eateries. 

• For traditional Russian flavors, I can’t recommend Café Pushkin, Dr. Zhivago, and Turnadot enough.
• When looking for international cuisines, Italian is always the way to go, and my local favorite is Probka.
• Fine dining is best done among the clouds at White Rabbit, with European flavors.
• As for the hip spots, you can spend a full day just eating around trendy places, from burgers to Asian fusion.

More Dining Options

• Patriarshiye Prudy offers a lot of small and classy spots with cool concepts, like breakfast restaurants I Love Cake and Fresh.
• For dinner, I love the NYC experience of Saxon & Parole, and the wonderful trendy Pins, with its delicious food and drinks.
• For delicious Asian food head to CutFish. 
• Lastly, there’s a recent revival of food markets in Moscow, offering lots of great choices of international flavors at affordable places.
• Don’t miss out the Vietnamese food stand at the Danilovsky market, and everything at Usachevsky!

16. Rooftopping

Big cities deserve to be seen from above, having a cocktail among the clouds. These are my recommendations for rooftop bars in Moscow.

• As I mentioned in the Moscow City section, Sixty & Ruski are two of my favorites, overlooking the newest part of town. 
• White Rabbit and its fine dining is also a lovely place for a fun dinner looking down on Moscow.
• O2, in the city center, has an advantage above all others: amazing views of the Red Square.
• Buono, above the Radisson Royal Hotel, might be the most romantic rooftop hotel in town, with its candlelit setting.
• Also on the Radisson stands the Mercedes. It’s a luxurious and posh experience with delicious cocktails.
• The Sky Lounge offers a peculiar experience, mixing an old Soviet building with futuristic additions.

17. Moscow by Night

Party the night away! The city is full of bars everywhere, but there are some areas where you’ll find more than others.

• Patriarshiye Prudy has lots of hip and small clubs and great bars, including the super fun private club Clava, which has a great vibe and people from all walks of life.
• For more hipster style bars, Red October is the place to go.
• Streak is a summer favorite, with a lovely terrace to catch a beautiful sunset – plus, their mozzarella bar is delicious.
• At night, Red October lights up with clubs everywhere, including the cool rooftop one Gipsy.
• Jagger is also a great spot during summer with a more relaxed vibe in garden setting. 
• For the traditional Russian luxury experience, go to SohoRooms, a whole other world including all-night go-go dancers.

There are so many things to do in Moscow at night and during the day, you definitely need several days to explore this exciting destination.

Moscow is a must-see city, a city like no other ! I hope you will enjoy this Russian metropolis as much as I did!

If you enjoyed this article on the , share it to Pinterest for future travel planning.

• Mother Russia Stands Proud at Volgograd
• 25 Haunting Chernobyl Pictures – 3 Decades after the Disaster
• 10 Reasons to Add Tbilisi Georgia to Your Bucket List

Follow Linda on  Instagram  guides! For more inspiration, follow my journey also on Facebook and Pinterest and see Linda’s bio below for more at her website.

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

16 Interesting and Surprising Facts About Russia

12 Beautiful Reasons to Visit Tbilisi, Georgia

Motherland Calls – Mother Russia Stands Proud Over Volgograd

About Linda Voltaire

Linda Voltaire is the owner of Travel with a Silver Lining, home to reviews of gorgeous boutique & design hotels, hip & trendy eateries as well as authentic and personal travel experiences beyond the crowd. She started blogging after a life-changing trip across South America. Follow Linda at TravelWithASilverLining / Facebook / Instagram /

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

10 thoughts on “17 Exciting Things to do in Moscow”

These places look so awesome! Moscow is truly a beautiful city

Very good article, you have explained so nicely. Russia has always been a part of history and its good to know about much more about architecture and other things, wish i could see the inside of façade

Thanks for sharing such a nice article.You have very beautifully explained everything that one need for a trip to Moscow.

Nice article. Love the hidden gems and graffiti art, would love to visit Artplay. Thanks for a comprehensive guide to Moscow!

Moscow is a city where the past and the future live side by side. Here we can find everything from medieval fortresses and Soviet monoliths to glass skyscrapers and innovation centers.

Your article is good and meaningful .

Thanks for sharing about ArtPlay district, we didn’t know about it and it looks amazing 🙂 Hopefully there’ll be a second time in Moscow, we visited last May and really liked the city!

Wonderful stuff! I’ve been to Moscow, but not properly – it’s a long story lol!

Anyhoo, my next thing is to fly from Berlin to Moscow and then travel from there to Beijing via the Trans-Mongolian / Trans-Siberian train. Now, if only I could just find the time …!

I hear Moscow is very beautiful at night. I hope to get out there one day. A friend of mine went to St. Petersburg and had a great experience. Despite all the tension we see on the news with Russia and other Countries like the U.S. I wonder what the sentiment is with Russians and foreigners visiting their country for tourism. Especially Americans.

that looks like quite a beautiful place. 🙂