joe zietlow kwik trip

NATSO Announces 2024 Board of Directors

• By Tiffany Wlazlowski Neuman
• March 13, 2024
• Press Releases
• Truckstop Business
• NATSO Board of Directors

ALEXANDRIA, VA. -- NATSO, representing truck stops and travel centers, is proud to announce the installation of its new slate of officers following its 2024 spring Board of Directors meeting.

Joe Zietlow, Industry and Trade Association Manager for Kwik Trip Inc., was appointed as the new Chairman of the Board of Directors. Zietlow succeeds Jim Hays, owner of Dodge City Petro, who will now serve as Immediate Past Chair. Matt Mildenberger, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mittens Travel Center, Oakley Kansas TA, was approved as Chair-Elect.

“I’m proud of the journey NATSO is on to support an increasingly diverse membership within the truck stop and travel center community, and I welcome the opportunity to lead this Board of Directors,” said Zietlow. “I’m pleased to play this leadership role in 2024 as NATSO continues its great work to advance the issues that are critical to the future success of all NATSO members while delivering the resources that help travel centers to be profitable today.”

“I look forward to working with Joe and the entire Board to build upon NATSO’s growth and service to the truck stop and travel center industry,” said NATSO President and CEO Lisa Mullings. “I also thank our Immediate Past Chair Jim Hays for his generous service to both our industry and our organization.”

The NATSO Board of Directors also appointed: Debi Boffa, Chief Executive Officer of Travel Centers of America; Ted Augustine, President 24/7 Travel Stores; Herb Hargraves, Chief Operating Officer for Victory Marketing, which owns Sprint Mart; and Bruce Morgan, Chief Commercial Officer of QuikTrip Inc., to its Board of Directors for 2024.

Marko Zaro, Chief Executive Officer at Road Ranger, will continue to serve as Secretary/Treasurer.

Heather DeBaillie, Vice President of Marketing for CAT Scale Company and Iowa 80 Group, also will continue to serve as the NATSO Foundation Chairman of the Board in 2024.

The complete 2024 NATSO Board of Directors includes:

Joe Zietlow, Chairman of the Board, Kwik Trip, Inc.

Jim Hays, Immediate Past Chair, Dodge City Petro

Matt Mildenberger, Chair Elect, Mittens Travel Center, Oakley Kansas TA

Heather DeBaillie, NATSO Foundation, Chairman of the Board, CAT Scale Co. and Iowa 80 Group

Lisa Mullings, President and CEO, NATSO, representing America’s truck stops and travel centers

Marko Zaro, Secretary/Treasurer, Road Ranger

Ted Augustine, At-Large Director, 24/7 Travel Stores

Debi Boffa, Chain Director, Travel Centers of America

Damon Borden, At-Larger Director, Broadway Truck Stops

Ted Giles, Allied Director, Wynn’s Grain & Spice

Herb Hargraves, At-Large, Sprint Mart

Victoria Hendon, At-Large Director, Danny’s Truck Wash & Service Center

Frank Love, Chain Director, Love’s Operating Companies, Inc.

Bruce Morgan, Chain Director, QuikTrip Corp.

Andy Richard, At-Large Director, Sapp Bros. Inc.

Raina Shoemaker, At-Large Director, Shoemaker’s Travel Centers

Elizabeth Waring, At-Large Director, Busy Bee

David Young, Allied Director, Valvoline

Media Contact: Tiffany Wlazlowski  Neuman Vice President, Public Affairs Phone: (703) 739-8578 Email: [email protected]

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Wawa opens its first alabama convenience store, what happened to foxtrot and dom’s market, natso elects 2024 chairman, board members.

NATSO, the national trade association representing truckstops and travel plazas named Joe Zietlow , industry and trade association manager for Kwik Trip Inc., as its new chairman of the board.

"I'm proud of the journey NATSO is on to support an increasingly diverse membership within the truckstop and travel center community, and I welcome the opportunity to lead this board of directors," said Zietlow. "I'm pleased to play this leadership role in 2024 as NATSO continues its great work to advance the issues that are critical to the future success of all NATSO members while delivering the resources that help travel centers to be profitable today."

The complete 2024 NATSO board of directors includes:

• Joe Zietlow , Chairman of the Board, Kwik Trip, Inc .
• Jim Hays , Immediate Past Chair, Dodge City Petro
• Matt Mildenberger , Chair Elect, Mittens Travel Center, Oakley Kansas TA
• Heather DeBaillie , NATSO Foundation, Chairman of the Board, CAT Scale Co. and  Iowa  80 Group
• Lisa Mullings , President and CEO, NATSO, representing America's truck stops and travel centers
• Marko Zaro , Secretary/Treasurer, Road Ranger
• Ted Augustine , At-Large Director, 24/7 Travel Stores
• Debi Boffa , Chain Director,  TravelCenters of America LLC
• Damon Borden , At-Larger Director, Broadway Truck Stops
• Ted Giles , Allied Director, Wynn's Grain & Spice
• Herb Hargraves , At-Large, Sprint Mart
• Victoria Hendon , At-Large Director, Danny's Truck Wash & Service Center
• Frank Love , Chain Director, Love's Operating Cos. Inc.
• Bruce Morgan , Chain Director, QuikTrip Corp .
• Andy Richard , At-Large Director,  Sapp Bros . Inc.
• Raina Shoemaker , At-Large Director, Shoemaker's Travel Centers
• Elizabeth Waring , At-Large Director, Busy Bee
• David Young , Allied Director, Valvoline

Founded in 1960 as the National Association of Truck Stop Operators, NATSO represents the industry on legislative and regulatory matters; serves as the official source of information on the industry; provides education to its members; conducts an annual convention and trade show; and supports efforts to generally improve the business climate in which its members operate.

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Kwik Trip announces leadership changes; CEO, President of 22 years to retire

Don Zietlow (Courtesy: Kwik Trip)

(ABC 6 News) – Kwik Trip announced on Monday they will undergo some leadership changes effective Jan. 1, 2023 .

Donald P. Zietlow, CEO and President of Kwik Trip for the last 22 years, announced he is retiring effective Dec. 31, 2022 . Zietlow has been with the company for 52 years and was the driving force behind sharing 40% of the pre-tax profits with all the coworkers and Kwik Trip’s successful food programs.

Kwik Trip says under Zietlow’s leadership, the company has grown its vertically integrated support center in La Crosse, including major capital investments in the dairy, kitchens, bakeries, and distribution center.

The company now operates more than 800 locations in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois and Michigan.

Scott Zietlow, the Chair of the Board of Kwik Trip and 2nd-generation owner, will become the company’s next President and CEO. Scott will be retiring from his role as a Professor of Surgery in the Trauma, Critical Care and General Surgery Division in Rochester to assume his new Kwik Trip responsibilities.

“I am honored to follow my dad’s legacy of guiding Kwik Trip. We are a very strong company and with our 36,000 phenomenal coworkers, great retail locations, and industry-leading vertical integration, our future is bright,” said Scott Zietlow.

As part of the new leadership team, Tom Reinhart has been appointed Chief Operating Officer. Jeff Wrobel will continue his role as Chief Financial Officer.

To learn more about Kwik Trip, CLICK HERE .

Home       Issues     March 2022     One Voice: Joe Zietlow

One Voice: Joe Zietlow

This month, NACS talks to Joe Zietlow, industry and trade association manager for Kwik Trip Inc.

March 2022   minute read

What role do you think convenience stores should play in the community?

Our industry stepped up and demonstrated the important and essential role we played when the COVID-19 pandemic began in March of 2020. Our front-line workers at all of our c-stores kept our country moving forward, by providing gasoline for essential workers to get to work, diesel fuel, food and a place to rest for truckers so they could deliver medical supplies to hospitals, and food and supplies to people in their homes due to the stay-at-home orders around the country. We “Truly Made a Difference” in every community our businesses call home! 

This has also provided a huge opportunity for convenience retailers. We have and will continue to be where community members can find essential food all day, such as a hot meal. Our stores fill the food desert void as convenient places for many of our less fortunate customers who depend on SNAP to shop for food for their families. 

Convenience stores take pride in supporting our communities every way we can.

What does NACS political engagement mean to you, and what benefits have you experienced from being politically engaged?

As a member of the NACS Political Engagement Committee, I have made a commitment to being engaged and involved in all the issues that affect our industry. By building relationships with every representative and senator we have and by educating them on our business and industry, we have become a respected and trusted resource in the states we operate in. Through our grassroots efforts, we also provide education to our colleagues on the issues that affect our company and industry. Additionally, we encourage those colleagues to contact their elected officials, thus making a difference for our company, industry and state we live in. 

What federal legislation or regulatory issues keep you up at night?

Currently, the government chooses winners and losers in the future of transportation fuels and energy. Government is essentially trying to eliminate fossil fuels and ICE engines, while favoring incentives for EVs and EV infrastructure.

We need to keep building our congressional relationships in order to educate them on our industry and advocate for a level playing field to let the consumers and market determine what the future of trans- portation looks like—not a government agency or policy mandate! 

What c-store product could you not live without?

No question, it would be our Karuba Columbian Coffee with cream. Great start to my day!

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Kwik Trip announcing leadership change

WAUSAU, Wis. (WSAW) - After 52 years with Kwik Trip and 22 years as CEO and President, Donald Zietlow is retiring as of Dec. 31.

Zietlow attributes the success of Kwik Trip to his coworkers and employees, but it has been his leadership that has brought substantial growth and innovation to the company. Now with more than 800 locations across Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, and Michigan, he is considered to be one of the leaders in the convenience store industry.

During his tenure, Zietlow was the driving force behind sharing 40% of the pre-tax profits with all of his coworkers and Kwik Trip’s successful food programs. The company has grown its vertically integrated Support Center in La Crosse under his leadership including major capital investments in multiple distribution centers.

His son, Scott Zietlow, who is Chair of the Board of Kwik Trip and retiring from his own role as professor of surgery in the Trauma, Critical Care, and General Surgery Division of Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, will become the next President and CEO. “I am honored to follow my dad’s legacy of guiding Kwik Trip. We are a very strong company and with our 36,000 phenomenal coworkers, great retail locations, and industry-leading vertical integration, our future is bright,” said Zietlow.

Tom Reinhart has been appointed COO and Jeff Wrobel has been appointed CFO as part of the company’s new leadership team.

Copyright 2022 WSAW. All rights reserved.

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The inside story behind Kwik Trip's explosive growth

I 'm Steve Martinez and this is the Daily Briefing newsletter by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.  Sign up here to get it sent to your inbox each morning .

It's going to be rainy and about 52 degrees Thursday. Yes, you read that right. In Wisconsin, we sometimes call this weather " fool's spring ." Here's to hoping it doesn't mean we're in for another April snowstorm .

Get daily updates on the Packers during the season.

Everybody's favorite Wisconsin gas station has a home-grown business strategy to thank for its ongoing success.

One key component, stressed by former Kwik Trip President and CEO Don Zietlow , involves in-house production of a lot of KT staples (think Glazers doughnuts), which allows the convenience store chain to maintain competitive prices.

It's just one part of what makes the La Crosse-based company special and massively successful. Kwik Trip's profit last year was in the neighborhood of $500 million, according to Journal Sentinel estimates.

And it doesn't look like the company will be slowing down anytime soon. You can read all about Zietlow's vision for the company and how it grew "organically" into the gas station giant it is today in Karl Ebert's latest story .

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This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: The inside story behind Kwik Trip's explosive growth

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NATSO Announces 2024 Board of Directors

PR Newswire

ALEXANDRIA, Va., March 11, 2024

ALEXANDRIA, Va., March 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- NATSO, representing truck stops and travel centers, is proud to announce the installation of its new slate of officers following its 2024 spring Board of Directors meeting.

Joe Zietlow, Industry and Trade Association Manager for Kwik Trip Inc., was appointed as the new Chairman of the Board of Directors. Zietlow succeeds Jim Hays, owner of Dodge City Petro, who will now serve as Immediate Past Chair. Matt Mildenberger, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mittens Travel Center, Oakley Kansas TA, was approved as Chair-Elect.

"I'm proud of the journey NATSO is on to support an increasingly diverse membership within the truck stop and travel center community, and I welcome the opportunity to lead this Board of Directors," said Zietlow. "I'm pleased to play this leadership role in 2024 as NATSO continues its great work to advance the issues that are critical to the future success of all NATSO members while delivering the resources that help travel centers to be profitable today."

"I look forward to working with Joe and the entire Board to build upon NATSO's growth and service to the truck stop and travel center industry," said NATSO President and CEO Lisa Mullings. "I also thank our Immediate Past Chair Jim Hays for his generous service to both our industry and our organization."

The NATSO Board of Directors also appointed: Debi Boffa, Chief Executive Officer of Travel Centers of America; Ted Augustine, President 24/7 Travel Stores; Herb Hargraves, Chief Operating Officer for Victory Marketing, which owns Sprint Mart; and Bruce Morgan, Chief Commercial Officer of QuikTrip Inc., to its Board of Directors for 2024.

Marko Zaro, Chief Executive Officer at Road Ranger, will continue to serve as Secretary/Treasurer.

Heather DeBaillie, Vice President of Marketing for CAT Scale Company and Iowa 80 Group, also will continue to serve as the NATSO Foundation Chairman of the Board in 2024.

The complete 2024 NATSO Board of Directors includes:

Joe Zietlow, Chairman of the Board, Kwik Trip, Inc.

Jim Hays, Immediate Past Chair, Dodge City Petro

Matt Mildenberger, Chair Elect, Mittens Travel Center, Oakley Kansas TA

Heather DeBaillie, NATSO Foundation, Chairman of the Board, CAT Scale Co. and Iowa 80 Group

Lisa Mullings, President and CEO, NATSO, representing America's truck stops and travel centers

Marko Zaro, Secretary/Treasurer, Road Ranger

Ted Augustine, At-Large Director, 24/7 Travel Stores

Debi Boffa, Chain Director, Travel Centers of America

Damon Borden, At-Larger Director, Broadway Truck Stops

Ted Giles, Allied Director, Wynn's Grain & Spice

Herb Hargraves, At-Large, Sprint Mart

Victoria Hendon, At-Large Director, Danny's Truck Wash & Service Center

Frank Love, Chain Director, Love's Operating Companies, Inc.

Bruce Morgan, Chain Director, QuikTrip Corp.

Andy Richard, At-Large Director, Sapp Bros. Inc.

Raina Shoemaker, At-Large Director, Shoemaker's Travel Centers

Elizabeth Waring, At-Large Director, Busy Bee

David Young, Allied Director, Valvoline

About NATSO

NATSO  is the trade association of America's travel plaza and truck stop industry. Founded in 1960, NATSO represents the industry on legislative and regulatory matters; serves as the official source of information on the diverse travel plaza and truck stop industry; provides education to its members; conducts an annual convention and trade show; and supports efforts to generally improve the business climate in which its members operate. Contact: Tiffany Wlazlowski Neuman, Vice President, Public Affairs. 

SOURCE NATSO, Inc.

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The E15 Expressway: Web Chats with Retailers, featuring Kwik Trip

This week’s The E15 Expressway: Web Chats with Retailers features Joe Zietlow, Industry and Trade Association Manager at Kwik Trip . Kwik Trip has been a retail industry pioneer for E15 and according to Zietlow, has been selling ethanol “since before it was cool” .

Kwik Trip is a family-owned company based in La Crosse, Wis. that employs more than 28,000 workers across 700+ stores in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa. Through vertical integration, Kwik Trip owns its bakery, dairy, kitchens, and distribution, including a 500-truck fleet: “We make it, we truck it, we sell it”. During his chat with Growth Energy’s Emily Skor, Zietlow explained how Kwik Trip applied this vertical integration to ethanol, building four facilities to regionally blend E10, E15, E85, and biodiesel to distribute to its own stores.

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Don Zietlow to retire as president and CEO of Kwik Trip at the end of 2022

The end of the year will mark the end of an era at Kwik Trip as Don Zietlow retires as president and CEO.

Zietlow has been at Kwik Trip for 52 years, including 22 as president and CEO, leading the company through growth and expansion to more than 800 locations across Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois and Michigan, according to a news release from Kwik Trip. Throughout his leadership, Kwik Trip has grown its support center in La Crosse and invested in the company’s “vertical integration.” Kwik Trip makes Glazer doughnuts, for example, in its own bakery, they’re shipped on Kwik Trip’s trucks and they’re sold in Kwik Trip stores. The company has made major investments and dairy, kitchens, bakeries and distribution center under Zietlow's leadership.

Zietlow has been at Kwik Trip since almost the beginning. The company opened its first location in 1965 in Eau Claire, then its second in La Crosse in 1971. Earlier this year, Zietlow told USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin it was a humble beginning − Kwik Trip started out as neighborhood grocery stores whose signs had painted letters cut out of plywood. He said Kwik Trip’s success boiled down to two ingredients: the right people and the ability to have products that guests want and are looking for and being able to offer them at a good deal.

Zietlow also invested in his employees, calling them his coworkers and sharing 40% of the company’s pre-tax profits.

“People are our No. 1 asset,” Zietlow told USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin in January. “There’s more to a job than pay. You need to feel like you are making a difference. That’s our mission, and that’s what our coworkers do every day.”

Kwik Trip employees have felt that appreciation over the years, as well. For a February story, employees told USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin they appreciate the 40% profit share and that Zietlow treated them as coworkers, coming into work in a Kwik Trip uniform every day instead of a suit and tie. They said he was always open with them about the ins and outs of the company.

As news of Zietlow's retirement hit social media this week, members of a Facebook group called Wisconsin Kwik Trip Enthusiast Club shared their appreciation for him and his leadership at the company. Dozens of employees shared how much his kindness and leadership meant to them.

While Zietlow is preparing to retire at the end of the year, the company will remain in the family. Starting Jan. 1, Scott Zietlow will become the new president and CEO as a second-generation owner. Scott is currently the chair of the board of Kwik Trip, and he will be retiring as professor of surgery in the trauma, critical care and general surgery division of Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, in order to serve in his new role at Kwik Trip.

“I am honored to follow my dad’s legacy of guiding Kwik Trip,” Scott said. “We are a very strong company and with our 36,000 phenomenal coworkers, great retail locations and industry-leading vertical integration, our future is bright.”

As part of the transition, Tom Reinhart will be the new chief operating officer, and Jeff Wrobel will continue as the chief financial officer.

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Wisconsin Business World, Kwik Trip: Announce winners of Innovation Competition

MADISON  – Wisconsin Business World, an affiliate of WMC Foundation, announced the winners of the twice-annual Innovation Competition. The contest, sponsored by Kwik Trip, tasks students to innovate a new product for the Kwik Trip convenience stores, create a marketing plan and present the idea in the format of their choice.

The winners of the Spring 2023 Innovation Competition:

Rida Sudheer & Carlie Rousseau  – Waukesha West High School

Brooke Mercier  – Racine Case High School

Logan Pinnow  – Holmen High School

“This contest pushes students to put their entrepreneurial and innovative skills to the test,” said Senior Director of Wisconsin Business World Michelle Grajkowski. “Wisconsin businesses like Kwik Trip contribute to our economy and our communities, and encouraging students to explore new ideas for local companies will shape our state’s future. Congratulations to all of the participants!”

Wisconsin-based Kwik Trip is a leader in vertical integration, manufacturing and customer care, giving students an opportunity to create a wide array of products. This year’s winning entries included Kwik Vending, Sauce System and the Hot Spot Kiosk. Each entry included a presentation on the product and a marketing strategy identifying a target audience and explaining how the product would increase consumer sales.

“We proudly sponsor this contest twice a year because we know the educational impact it can have,” shared Kwik Trip’s Industry and Trade Association Manager Joe Zietlow. “We’re always impressed with the students’ creativity and appreciate their hard work in creating their presentations. Thank you to all who participated!”

The contest was open to Wisconsin students in grades 6-12. Each of the winning projects received a $500 cash prize. Wisconsin Business World and Kwik Trip will host a similar contest this fall.

Wisconsin Business World – a program of WMC Foundation – educates students on business, entrepreneurism and the free market through its statewide competitions, Summer Camps, one-day programs, online curriculum and classroom presentations. The Business World message is simple — Business is a Force for Good. More information about Wisconsin Business World and its programs can be found at  www.wmcfoundation.org/wisconsin-business-world/ .

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Amy Zietlow Obituary, La Crosse WI Owner Of Kwik Trip Has Died

Amy Zietlow Obituary, Death – On March 4, 2023, Zietlow was welcomed into the heavenly palace that Jesus had prepared for her. LaVonne Hoeth was born on November 22, 1934, to Earl and Emma (Stellner) Hoeth. On February 17, 1935, she was baptized into the Christian faith at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church in Stoddard, becoming a child of God. On April 2, 1950, she received her Christian confirmation at Trinity Evangelical and Reformed Church in Mormon Coulee.

She completed her education at Mormon Coulee School and Central High School in LaCrosse in 1952. She met Donald Zietlow, the love of her life, at Central. After being hitched on May 14, 1955, they had two sons, Scott and Steven, and a daughter, Vicky. Don and LaVonne resided in a remote area of LaCrosse County for a while, where Don worked on a farm with his stepfather. LaVonne was employed by Universal Photo and then by Kauma’s Clothes. Don grew into a prosperous businessman over the years, and LaVonne was at his side, supporting him, throwing parties, and giving her constant encouragement.

Additionally, she carved out a place for herself in the community by consistently volunteering for the American Red Cross. In 2015, she received recognition from the CEO and president of the national organization for more than thirty years of planning and directing local blood drives. Above all, LaVonne cherished her time spent with her family. All year long, she and Don threw a ton of family get-togethers.

Perfect for summertime get-togethers, they even boasted four ice cream makers! LaVonne, who was always a talented artist, was well-known for her handmade cards that she used to mark significant occasions in her friends’ and family’s lives, such as birthdays. She was a deeply kind and kind individual who contributed money to several ministries and charities, particularly Luther High School and First Evangelical Lutheran Church and School. LaVonne was most likely involved in one way or another if a worthwhile initiative arose in the LaCrosse area. Everyone who knew her will miss her terribly since she was a nice and compassionate person.

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Shooter Files by f.d. walker

Street Photography Tips, Interaction, Travel, Guides

Apr 24 2017

City Street Guides by f.d. walker: A Street Photography Guide to Moscow, Russia

*A series of guides on shooting Street Photography in cities around the world. Find the best spots to shoot, things to capture, street walks, street tips, safety concerns, and more for cities around the world. I have personally researched, explored and shot Street Photography in every city that I create a guide for. So you can be ready to capture the streets as soon as you step outside with your camera!

At over 12 million people, Moscow is the largest city in Russia and second largest in Europe by population ( Istanbul is #1). An urban, cosmopolitan metropolis with more than enough glitz and glam to cater to the elite, but without losing its fair share of Soviet era roughness around the edges. It can be fast paced, brash, busy, and trendy like other big cities, but it has its blend of West meets Russia atmosphere and beauty that provides plenty of unique interest. The Red Square is as famous as it gets, but there’s so much more to this city, including the most beautiful subway system you’ve ever seen. It would take years to capture all of Moscow, but that means you have an endless amount of areas to discover.

So here’s a Street Photography guide so you can be ready to capture all that Moscow has to offer before you even arrive!

• Patriarch’s Pond
• Old Arbat Street
• Maroseyka Street
• Tverskoy Boulevard

Top 5 Street Spots:

1. red square.

The Red Square is the most famous square in not just Russia, but all of Eastern Europe. The name actually doesn’t come from the color of the bricks or communism, but from the name in Russian, Krásnaya, once meaning “beautiful” before its meaning changed to “red.” This large plaza is what you see on the cover of guide books and magazines for Moscow, with St. Basil’s Cathedral being the center piece next to Lenin’s Mausoleum surrounded by the Kremlin Wall. Of course, the Red Square attracts hordes of tourist due to the main attractions, but all that activity around an interesting atmosphere does provide street photo opportunities. It’s also the central square connecting to the city’s major streets, providing a good starting point to explore outward.

You’ll also find the popular pedestrian only Nikolskaya Street connecting the Red Square to Lubyanka Square. This line of expensive shops includes plenty of activity, while also leading you to another popular square. Filled with history rivaling any city, the Red Square and surrounding areas are the heart and soul of Russia.

2. Patriarch’s Ponds

Patriarch’s Ponds is one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Moscow. Despite the name being plural, there’s only one large pond, but it’s worth a visit with your camera. It’s a popular spot for locals and expats to come relax or take a stroll around the pond. You get an interesting mix of young and old too, from young love to “babushkas” feeding pigeons. It’s a very peaceful park atmosphere in one of the nicer areas within the city center, while bringing enough activity for street photography. 

The pond is shallow and in the winter becomes a popular spot for ice-skating too. The area is also well-known for the location in the famous Russian novel, The Master and Margarita. 

3. Old Arbat (Stary Arbat)

Old Arbat is the most famous pedestrian street in Moscow, and dating back to the 15th century, also one of its oldest. Originally, it was an area of trade, but soon became the most prestigious residential area in Moscow. During the 18th century, Arbat started attracting the city’s scholars and artists, including Alexander Pushkin. Cafes lined the streets and impressive homes filled the neighborhood. Since then, New Arbat street was created as a highway in the area, while Old Arbat was paved for a 1km pedestrian only walkway.

Due to the historic buildings, famous artists that lived here, and the bohemian atmosphere, Old Arbat has become a big attraction for tourists today. Now, there’s a mix of cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, street performers, street merchants and other attractions for visitors, and some locals, to come enjoy. It can get really busy here and there’s usually something interesting going on so it’s a good street to come walk with your camera for guaranteed life.

4. Gorky Park

One of the most famous places in Moscow is Gorky Park. The official name is Maxim Gorky’s Central Park of Culture & Leisure, which gives you an idea of what goes on here. When built, it was the first of its kind in the Soviet Union. Divided into two parts, it stretches along Moscow River. One end contains fair rides, foods stands, tennis courts, a sports club, a lake for boat rides, and more. This end brings more active life due to its number of attractions, while the other end is more relaxed, where you’ll find gardens, trees, older buildings, and an outdoor amphitheater.

Gorky Park attracts mostly locals so it’s a good spot to capture the non-tourist side of Moscow life. Muscovites come here to escape the city and unwind in a picturesque setting. The park remains alive outside of the warmer months too, especially when the lake turns into the city’s largest outdoor skating rink. I’d recommend taking the metro out here to spend at least half a day exploring the massive park’s life with your camera.

5. Maroseyka Street

Maroseyka Street is a popular area not too far from the Red Square. The long, winding street turns into Pokrovka and is lined with restaurants, cafes, bars and places to stay. It’s actually where I like to stay when I’m in Moscow due to its location and solid street photography opportunities itself. You have Kitay-gorod station near and if you keep walking southwest, you’ll get to the Red Square. But if you walk northwest, as it changes to Pokrovka, you can find a long street of activity for photography with its own interesting atmosphere.

6. Tverskoy Boulevard

Tverskoy Boulevard is the oldest and longest boulevard in Moscow, beginning at the end of Nikitsky Boulevard, and finishing at Pushkin Square, a spot to come for activity itself. The boulevard is made up of two avenues, with pedestrian walkways in-between. You’ll find grass, shrubbery, trees, benches and more walking it’s almost kilometer length. Many people come here to enjoy some relaxation, walk their dog, or just to use it to walk wherever they’re going. Its center location also provides a nice place to walk with your camera near plenty of other spots you’ll want to check out anyway.

Sample Street Walk:

For a full day of Street Photography, covering some of the best spots, you can follow this sample street walk for Moscow:

• Start your morning walking around the Red Square (1), while exploring the surrounding area, including Nikolskaya Street
• Then walk northwest to Patriarch’s Ponds (2) and slowly walk the pond and surrounding area with your camera
• Next, walk east to the Pushkin Monument and stroll down Tverskoy Boulevard (6)
• Once Tverskoy Boulevard (6) ends, it will turn into Nikitsky Boulevard. Follow this down until you get to the start of Old Arbat Street (3), across from Arbatskaya station
• After you’re done walking down Old Arbat Street (3) for more street photography, spend some time checking out Moscow’s beautiful metro stations
• To finish off the day with more street photography, get off the metro near Red Square (1) again, Maroseyka Street (5) or wherever you’re staying for the night.

3 Things I’ll Remember about Shooting in Moscow:

1. museum metro.

The Moscow metro system was the first underground railway system in the Soviet Union and today includes 203 stations across 340km of routes. The elaborate system has some of the deepest stations in the world too, with escalators that seem to go on forever. None of this is what makes it so special, though. Many of its stations feel like stepping inside a museum, making it without a doubt the most interesting and beautiful metro system I’ve been in.

When built, Stalin wanted to make the metro stations “palaces for the people” with marble, chandeliers, and grand architecture. The best part is the variety of architecture and styles used, making many of the stations a completely different experience visually. You could easily spend a whole day traveling the stations and there are even tours available for people who wish to do just that. My advice, though, would be just to buy a ticket and hop on and off at different stations, while exploring different lines. The museum-like surrounding mixed with the crowds of characters can make for a great photography experience.

Since there are so many stations, here are some of my favorites to check out:

• Novoslobodskaya
• Mayakovskaya
• Elektrozavodskaya
• Komsomolskaya
• Ploschad Revolyutsii
• Dostoyevskaya
• Prospekt Mira

2. Moscow is Big

It’s no secret that Moscow is a big city, but it can feel even bigger with how spread out much of it is. This is especially true if you compare it to cities outside of Asia. If I compared it to cities in Europe, I’d probably say only Istanbul would warrant more time to really discover the depths of this city. Most only explore around the Red Square and surrounding area, but that is such a small part of the city. Although, that central area does give you plenty to see on its own.

Fortunately, I had a good friend living in the city to show me around, but it opened up my eyes even more to how much there is to discover in Moscow. It’s a big city with a variety of atmosphere that can take you from “east” to “west” and trendy to rugged depending on where you go. I’d imagine you’d have to live here a while to really know the city.

3. Cosmopolitan Mix of East meets West

Modern skyscrapers mixed with amazing architecture, a world-class metro system with museum-like beauty, trendy fashion and chic clubs, Moscow is a rich mix of Russian culture and history in a more western cosmopolitan package. There is a push to keep the Russian culture, while also pushing forward with a modern metropolis the whole world will envy. This comes with an impressive skyline, that continues to grow, and endless modernities, but with soviet nostalgia and atmosphere mixed in for good measure.

Mixed in with this grand western cosmopolitan atmosphere, is a strong national pride in Russia. This includes their famous leader, Vladimir Putin. Maybe no other place will you see a country’s leader more often. All over, from the pricey tourist shops to the underground walkway stalls, you’ll find goods with Putin’s likeness covering them. From t-shirts to magnets to Matryoshka dolls. There’s a strong national pride that can be seen around the city, which also extends to their leader. Moscow is many things. It’s East meets West, modernizations meets Soviet era, and a whole lot more.

What To Do For a Street Photography Break?:

Eat at a stolovaya.

Stolovayas are Russian cafeterias that became popular in the Soviet days. You grab a tray and walk down the line of freshly prepared local dishes, and select whatever you want from the chefs. They’re usually inexpensive and a much better value than restaurants, while giving you the opportunity to try from a wide selection of everyday Russian food. They’re also very tasty. I always include some borsch on my tray and go from there. The places themselves are all over Moscow and usually come with Soviet-era aesthetics to complete the experience.

Street Safety Score: 7

*As always, no place is completely safe! So when I talk about safety, I’m speaking in general comparison to other places. Always take precaution, be smart, observe your surroundings and trust your instincts anywhere you go!

Being the 2nd largest city in Europe with over 12 million people, you’re going to have your dangerous areas, but for the most part, it feels safe walking around. Russia is statistically higher in crime compared to most of Europe, but this generally doesn’t apply to tourists and visitors. Around the Red Square and surrounding city center, you should feel completely safe walking around. Pick pocketing can happen, but no more than other touristic places. I always explore Moscow freely without coming across too much to worry about. It’s a spread out city, though, so of course it matters where you are. Just use basic street smarts, know where you are and Moscow shouldn’t give you a problem. 

People’s Reaction Score: 7

Moscow is fast paced, big city life, which usually means people aren’t too concerned with you, or your camera. I don’t find people notice or pay much attention to me when I’m out taking photos in Moscow. For the most part, people just go about their day. You shouldn’t get too many looks or concern. But it can depend on the area you are in. The more you stick out, the more you might get noticed with suspicions. I’ve never had any problems in Moscow, or Russia, but just be careful who you’re taking a photo of if you get out of the city center. Other than that, it’s about average for reactions. 

Street Tips:

Learn the alphabet .

Much of Moscow, including the metro system, doesn’t use english. The Russian alphabet uses letters from the Cyrillic script, which if you aren’t familiar with it and don’t know the sounds, can be hard to decipher the words. This is most important for street names and metro stops when trying to get around. It can save confusion and make it easier getting around if you learn the basic alphabet. At the very least then, you can sound out the words to see which are similar in the english conversion, which can help matching them to maps. When out shooting street photography, getting around is as important as anything. So save yourself some time and frustration by learning the Russian Alphabet.

Use the metro

While Saint-Petersburg feels very walkable for a city its size, Moscow can feel very spread out, even for its bigger size. Outside of the Red Square area, you can have plenty of walking before getting anywhere very interesting, so you’ll need to take the metro a lot if you really want to explore the city. Maps are deceiving here too, it will always be further than it looks.

Another reason it’s less walkable than Saint-Petersburg is its completely different set-up. Moscow’s streets are mostly contstructed in rings with narrow, winding streets in-between. This is common with medieval city cities that used to be confined by walls, but you usually don’t have it in a city this massive. Saint-Petersburg has a more grid-like pattern that also uses the canals to help you know your way around. When it comes to navigating on foot in Moscow, it can be more difficult, so bring a map and take the metro when needed. It’s why Moscow’s metro carries more passengers per day than the London and Paris subways combined.

Explore other areas if you have time

Moscow is really big. While most people stay around the Red Square within the Boulevard Ring, there’s so much more to the city. I covered some other spots outside of this circle, but if you really want to see the city, you’ll need time. If you do have time, some other areas I’d check out first are Zamoskvarechye, along some of the south and western Moscow.

Inspiration:

For some more inspiration, you can look through the Street Photography of Moscow photographer Artem Zhitenev  and check out 33 of my photos taken in Moscow .

Conclusion:

Moscow’s name brings a certain mystique, but once you’re there it might bring a different atmosphere than you expect. It’s big and sprawling, but beautiful in many ways. It can feel like a European capital on a grand scale, but you can definitely find its Russian side in there.

The urban sprawl of Moscow can be intimidating, but give it enough time and you’ll be rewarded with plenty to discover. All with the world’s best metro system to take you around.

I hope this guide can help you start to experience some of what Moscow contains. So grab your camera and capture all that Moscow has to offer for Street Photography!

If you still have any questions about shooting in Moscow, feel free to comment below or email me!

(I want to make these guides as valuable as possible for all of you so add any ideas on improvements, including addition requests, in the comment section!)

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The R&K Guide To Moscow

The World Cup is upon us, but you could argue that it’s already a relic from another era, a time when Putin was looking for peaceable engagement with the West, before he annexed Crimea and unleashed his trolls on the world. But if ordinary Russians are supposed to play the part of pariah, they haven’t been told. It has been a long time since Moscow was this pleasant to visit. The city center is safe, sanitized, ready for your visit. Yes, the calm is a sign of an increasingly efficient autocracy. But we’ve known Moscow through many iterations, and for the casual visitor, this is one of the best yet. (Visit our St. Petersburg guide here.)

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

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

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

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

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

Where to stay in moscow, moscow itinerary, day 1 itinerary in moscow, day 2 itinerary in moscow, day 3 and beyond, staying safe in moscow, day trips from moscow, faq on moscow itinerary.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

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

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

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

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

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

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Godzillas Hostel

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

• Towels Included

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

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

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

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

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

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

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

The Alexander Garden

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ostankino Television Tower

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

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

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

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

Izmaylovo District

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

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

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

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

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

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

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

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

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

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

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

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

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

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

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

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

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

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

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

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

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

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

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

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

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

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

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

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

How many days you need in Moscow?

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

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

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

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

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

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

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

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

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

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

Alya and Campbell

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