ickle bubba isofix travel system

Klarna Payments now available

24 Month Warranty.

24 Month Warranty. Find out more here.

• Travel Systems
• Nursery Decor
• Feeding & Weaning
• Accessories

Stomp V3 Travel System With Isofix Base

Choose your combination:

SKU: 10-003-200

Description

Put your stamp on the Stomp V3. This Ickle Bubba travel system is bursting with style you can customise, so you can look good while you boss those baby duties. What's more, the all-terrain features, make those off-road adventures a walk in the park...

Stomp V3 all-terrain pushchair

The Stomp V3 travel system offers you easy steering all on a range of terrains. This lightweight pushchair weighs just 7.1kg, so it's easy to push around. The dual suspension and large, puncture proof tyres provide all the support you need for parks, woodland walks and more.

Travel system ready | Includes carrycot, group 0+ car seat & ISOFIX base

This 3-in-1 travel system set is the perfect solution for all those journeys with baby. It includes the pushchair chassis and seat, a coordinating carrycot, a Group 0+ car seat and ISOFIX base. What's more, it comes packed with useful additional features, such as:

• Coordinating footmuff
• Changing bag and mat
• Car seat adaptors
• 2x Sun visors

Stomp V3 | Comfort and safety for baby

Stomp V3 is sure to keep your little one comfortable. It includes a cosy footmuff and soft seat liner, plus a UPF 50+ hood to protect from all weathers, as well as a reclining seat. The 5-point safety harness and easy to engage foot break always keep them safe and secure.

Stomp V3 features:

• Built-in dual suspension
• Large puncture proof foam tyres
• UPF 50+ hood with multi-position settings
• Reclining seat unit
• 5-point safety harness
• Adjustable handle
• Removable bumper bar
• Easy to operate foot break
• Extra-large shopping basket
• Lockable front wheels

Find out more about the Galaxy Group 0+ car seat

Specification

Stomp V3 specifications:

• Suitable from birth up to 22kgs (approx. 4 years)
• Carrycot suitable from birth up to 9kg (approx. 6 months)
• Seat unit suitable from 6 months to 22kgs (approx. 4 years old)
• Seating positions: 4
• Front wheel diameter: 17cm
• Rear wheel diameter: 30cm
• Weight: 7.1kg (chassis with wheels)
• Upright dimensions: W61cm x L95cm x H104cm
• Folded dimensions: W61cm x L77cm x H30cm
• Handle Height: 65cm-104cm
• Seat area dimensions: W32cm x D22cm
• Carrycot inside dimensions: W31cm x L76cm x H22cm

Galaxy Car Seat specifications

• Galaxy Group 0+ car seat suitable from birth up to 13kgs (approx. 12-15 mths old) complete with Isofix base
• Car seat adapters included
• Compatible with most car seat brands using Stomp universal car seat adapters
• Isofix compatible
• Stomp V3 3-in-1 Travel System comes with a 4-Year Warranty
• Pushchair Safety Standards notice
• Car Seat Safety Standards notice

Free UK Next Day Delivery on orders over £50*.

To qualify for UK Next Day Delivery, all you need to do, is order on the Ickle Bubba website before 2pm, Monday-Thursday. Orders over £50 will also qualify for free delivery.

Orders placed after 2pm will be processed the next working day.

*The offer excludes furniture and nursery interiors, as well as spares & accessories; and orders placed in the Highlands and UK Islands, and Northern Ireland.

Delivery charges:

International Delivery:

Overseas orders will take up to 2-7 working days.

All charges and duties will be covered as part of your order and shipping costs. Shipping charges are calculated at checkout. 

Customer Reviews

This travel system has now been discontinued..

Why not check out some of our  other travel systems?

"This is a great travel system that is easy to use and comfortable for me and my son. It's well-designed, made of good-quality materials, and feels sturdy. It's suitable from birth but will grow with my son, which makes it great value for money as well. It's been great for long walks over various terrains, long car journeys, and lots of hopping in and out of the car. It comes with everything you need to transport your baby from newborn."

One-handed folding

Super stylish

Range of thoughtful features

Bumper bar is very low

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

Price and availability

Design and features, how we tested, things you won't find on the box, who's it best for, need an alternative.

Visually, this is a travel system that immediately catches your eye, oozing class and sophistication. However, while looks do matter, we wanted to make sure the Altima had plenty of substance too, and we were delighted to discover that it delivers on that front.

Perfectly flexible to fit your lifestyle, the Altima is one of the best prams on the market. It folds with the seat unit still in place, in a simple, one-handed action (both in parent-facing and world-facing positions) ensuring you can pop it away in an instant. The carrycot comes with a plush mattress and the seat unit has three recline positions, two leg rest positions and comes with a cosy, padded seat liner included.

A game changer for busy parents on the go, the Altima is one seriously impressive package. Not only does it feature everything you'd expect to see in a travel system, but we loved all the thoughtful touches from the metallic and leatherette details to the stylish rucksack changing bag complete with insulated bottle warmer and changing mat.

GoodtoKnow asked one of our parent testers to try out the Ickle Bubba Altima travel system with her six-month-old baby, Rupert. Having limited experience using travel systems, Theodora was impressed with the overall quality and design.

"I had the opportunity to test the Ickle Bubba Altima Travel System, and it exceeded my expectations in several ways," she told us. "It's an elegant, easy-to-use and compact travel system that comes with all the accessories needed for day-to-day travel from birth in comfort without compromising on function or style."

The Ickle Bubba Altima travel system retails at £699 which means it's creeping up into the higher price range when compared with other travel systems on the market.

Still, while it's not as affordable as the Ickle Bubba Stomp V4 , which we highly recommend, it's definitely one of the most sophisticated travel systems we've seen.

"I feel like it is excellent value for money as an all-rounder pram that won't hold you back day to day, plus it's easy to use, compact and stylish," says Theodora.

• VIEW AT ICKLE BUBBA

Age: Birth to 22kg | Dimensions (unfolded): H: 117cm x D: 77cm x W: 60cm | Dimensions (folded): H: 65cm x D: 40cm x W: 60cm | Weight: 9kg (seat unit with chassis and wheels)

If you love being on the go and you're looking for adaptability, we're almost certain you'll love the Ickle Bubba Altima travel system. The ideal addition to trips out with your little one, this sophisticated travel companion comes with so many features designed to make your life easier.

Firstly, we love how easy it is to fold away the Altima. We all know what it's like to try to awkwardly fold up a pushchair while holding a squirming baby — massively harassing, right? But with the Altima, you can literally fold it in an instant with just one hand, regardless of whether you've got it set up in a parent-facing or world-facing position. This is a feature our tester loves.

"The standout feature for me is how effortlessly and compactly the Altima folds," she told us. "No dismantling required! As someone with a VW Golf and a husband who drives an Audi A1 (with a tiny boot), this was crucial. I can fold it with one hand and lift it easily into the car boot. Even with the pram chair, footmuff, sunshade, and rain cover attached, there’s still plenty of space left for everything else we need to pack. The chassis of the pram folds up so compactly that I can put the carrycot on top, and the folding mechanism for the carrycot is easily accessible, if a bit fiddly, for families with exceptionally small cars."

The pushchair itself comes with an extendable hood with a mesh panel to ensure optimal breathability. And on those bright days, you can take advantage of the sun visor complete with viewing window, so you can still keep an eye on your baby while you're on the move. Plus, the liner of the pushchair itself is breathable too, which means your baby will stay nice and cool.

"The Altima’s breathable and extendable sun and privacy shades are fantastic," says Theodora. "Even on the brightest days, I can protect my son’s delicate skin from the sun. It doubles as a windshield during our outings in all weather conditions and helps him sleep well during naps on the go."

Next up is the carrycot complete with a plush mattress and a quilted apron with privacy panel for those times when your baby is snoozing and you don't want them to be disturbed by what's going on around you. And as for the convertible seat unit? It features three reclining positions and two footrest positions so little ones can travel in true comfort. There's even a footmuff that will keep your little one nice and toasty in the winter.

All-in-all, Theodora found both the pram and the carrycot ticked a whole bunch of boxes for both her and her son. "My 6-month-old son has been comfortably napping in both the carrycot and pram seat during our walks. The lining of the carrycot is removable and waterproof, which is a practical touch. Despite being tall for his age, he still fits in the carrycot comfortably. My son finds the pram seat comfortable, and I found the five-point padded harness easy to use and adjust. I particularly like the reversible padded insert with a breathable side and a cosy fleece side that is washable."

However, as with any product, Theodora found that Altima isn't without the odd drawback. "The bumper bar feels very low, it was quite bothersome having to constantly adjust his feet into the footmuff and I’d worry that he’d get cold without a pram suit on especially as he is at the age where socks don’t stay on for long!"

The Altima also comes with Ickle Bubba’s Stratus i-Size Car Seat and ISOFIX base, which is sturdy, comfortable and easy to fit. We also really appreciated that the ISOFIX base offers ISOFIX connectors (visual indicators to confirm correct installation) and a support leg to keep the car seat stable. These are great features — particularly if you're a new parent and have zero experience of fitting a car seat before.

"The i-Size Stratus car seat is fantastic, it comes with an ISOFIX base and adapters that make transitions in and out of the car quick and easy but with the peace of mind that my son is comfortable and safe," says Theodora. "It came with all the newborn inserts, which we haven’t tested. It was very easy to adjust the car seat to the correct size for him. The design choice to have the seatbelts come down over the baby’s shoulders for buckling in is brilliant. It simplifies the process and allows for smooth transfers."

Theodora reports that she has even been able to transfer her baby from the car seat to the cot without him waking; a feature she describes as 'game-changing'.

Our tester adds: "The compact, ergonomic design of the car seat enables you to carry your child short distances or transfer the car seat onto the chassis despite my son weighing 9kg and I appreciate that despite being very tall for his age I won’t need to replace the car seat soon and can continue to use it with the rest of the travel system."

Finally, a huge shoutout has to go the rucksack changing bag, an addition we feel is truly inspired. It comes with an insulated bottle warmer, numerous pockets (including a wipes pouch) for all your bits and pieces, and a convenient changing mat. Oh, the whole thing has super soft-touch leatherette and stylish gunmetal trims. To be honest, we're not sure there's anything Ickle Bubba hasn't thought of.

• Used the pram daily over several weeks
• Put it through its paces in a variety of settings, including walks on gravel and concrete paths, and trips to an art gallery, aquarium, baby groups, and cafes
• Along with looking at the safety, durability and comfort, our tester also reviewed how easy the pram is to push and how easy it is to fold and store

The Altima comes with so many cool little features and thoughtful touches that you can easily miss on first glance because you're so busy oohing and aahing over the obvious ones. So let's take a moment to highlight them because they're well worth being aware of.

First up, all the wheels on this travel system are removable, which makes cleaning and storage so much easier. This is especially important if, like us, you enjoy going on long walks in often muddy areas. Being able to wipe (or wash) the wheels when you get home with zero faff is super convenient.

We also find with a baby that we spend half our lives at the supermarket (maybe that's just us but seriously, we feel like we're constantly popping back for more food, nappies or baby wipes) so having a large, built-in shopping basket is so helpful. We honestly don't know how we'd manage trying to push a pram and carry a basket all while tending to a baby at the same time.

The Ickle Bubba Altima travel system is a brilliant buy for a busy parent who's looking for a pushchair with unparalleled versatility, hassle-free folding and a stylish design.

"I think this product is aimed at people who like stylishly designed products but as someone who prioritises function I've been really impressed. It's the best of both worlds and a great all-rounder," Theodora told us, adding that she wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to a friend.

"It is practical for day-to-day use but also very elegant and it feels very good quality. I am going on a cruise holiday and feel happy to take the Ickle Bubba Altima travel system out exploring as well as using it during black tie evenings. It comes with all the accessories you need for safe and stylish travel from newborn."

The Altima comes with a range of incredible features that definitely won't disappoint if this pram is within your budget. However, we understand that this travel system may feel a tad too pricey (especially with all the other baby product you're likely having to purchase), so if that's the case, we have a great alternative.

For a hassle-free set of wheels that converts from a lie-flat 'pramette' for a newborn baby to a toddler-friendly pushchair, we highly recommend the no-fuss Graco Transform 2-in-1 Pushchair (£200 at Amazon) .

Looking for more? Discover our range of baby gear buying guides covering everything from the best convertible car seats to the best cot beds .

GoodtoKnow Newsletter

Parenting advice, hot topics, best buys and family finance tips delivered straight to your inbox.

Kathryn is a freelance copywriter and editor who has created and proofed parenting, health and wellness, and pet content for evidence-based brands such as Fit&Well, Top Ten Reviews, LiveScience, Goodto, Product Hunt, and PetsRadar. A former social worker and end of life care educator, she has close to two decades of experience working with children and families. She lives on the outskirts of Bath with her husband, stepdaughter, and one very sassy little cat. 

• Heidi Scrimgeour Deputy Editor

If you're at a loss when it comes to disciplining your kids, sturdy parenting might help - and it's approved by child psychologist Dr Becky.

By Ellie Hutchings Published 21 April 24

Sorry Bill, Kirtsy and Nicole - these names may have been popular in the past but they've fallen out of favour in recent decades, according to research.

According to a royal expert, the Wales youngsters will one day follow in the footsteps of these unlikely relatives

By Charlie Elizabeth Culverhouse Published 21 April 24

Useful links

• Early signs of pregnancy
• Unusual baby names
• Fantastic facts for kids
• Kids party games
• Lemon drizzle cake
• Chocolate cake
• Basic cupcake
• Low calorie meals
• Best perfumes of all time
• Why am I so tired?
• How to stop drinking alcohol
• Contact Future's experts
• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Cookies policy

GoodtoKnow is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site . © Future Publishing Limited Quay House, The Ambury, Bath BA1 1UA. All rights reserved. England and Wales company registration number 2008885.

• Travel Systems

Ickle Bubba Stomp V3 Travel System review

The Ickle Bubba Stomp V3 travel system has everything you'll need from infant to toddler, adapting easily from carrycot to use from birth to 6 months, to pushchair from 6 months to 3 years and a car seat to take you and your baby wherever you want to explore. This one-stop bundle has a choice of chassis colour, fabric colours, multiple accessories and an Isofix compatible Galaxy Group 0+ car seat that attaches to the same pram chassis and is the only purchase you'll need to take your baby around in style and comfort.”

1. Stomp V3 Travel System With i-Size Car Seat & Isofix Base

Ickle Bubba Stomp V3 Travel System Overview

An affordable travel system that is lightweight and easy to carry. Our panel of mum testers would recommend this to those looking for a travel system that is great value for money, however, some thought that the carrycot was a little small and shallow. We've rounded up some of the pros and cons of this travel system to show the various benefits of this product.

• Great value: Affordable price for all that's on offer

• Different design choices: Customise from the colour of the chassis, material and handle.

• All in one travel system: Contains everything you could need from a travel system.

• Adjustable handle: Handle has different height settings to suit parent's heights.

• Longevity: With four different seating positions and a maximum weight of 22kg, it transitions from baby to toddler.

• Adjustable reclining seat: Seat can be adjusted to adapt to baby or toddler.

• Includes accessories: A changing bag and more are avaliable as part of this travel system.

• Lightweight: At just 7 kg, the chassis of the Stomp V3 means it is incredibly easy to manouever.

• Easy to operate foot brake : A simple to operate foot brake is located at the bottom of the chassis.

• Foldable: Folds down to a compact fold and is freestanding.

• UPF 50+ multi position hood: Shield them from the sun with an adjustable hood.

• Large shopping basket: A large capacity shopping basket for all your essentials.

• Support: Our testers found that this travel system could be a little flimsy and not as supportive as competitors.

• Quality: Our testers found that the quality wasn't as good as competitors.

• ISOFIX only: Not suitable for cars without ISOFIX fixings.

Amazon: Across Amazon, the Stomp V3 received a 4.5 out of 5 star rating from 344 reviews. One reviewer said, "This is an absolutely stunning, clever, all-inclusive baby travel system. It comes with EVERYTHING you need to transport your baby - carry cot, car seat, adaptable chassis, carry bag, changing mat …. even car window shields. It feels like it's been lovingly designed with parents and babies in mind. It's easy to switch between all the different options and the pram and car seats are comfortable, safe and secure. Absolutely lovely."

Ickle Bubba: On the Ickle Bubba website, the Stomp V3 received a 4.7 out of 5 star rating from 270 reviews . One reviewer said, "Purchased for my daughter due in August. Carrycot, pushchair and car seat were all easy to set up and all looked great. Great that the handle has two heights. Seems easy to collapse and change from pram to carpet etc. Lovely matching changing bag too."

Boots: The reviews on Boots show that the Stomp V3 received a 4.7 out of 5 star rating from 210 reviews . One reviewer said, "I purchased this travel system as a gift for my daughter who is expecting her first child. We could not have been happier with the purchasing and delivery, everything included in this system, pram looks lovely, it was easy to set up, instructions were clear and easy to follow. I have been really impressed with this product and the value for money it offered, would defiantly recommend to others."

In comparison to other travel systems that offer similiar features, the Ickle Bubba Stomp V3 is within the affordable to medium range of the price bracket. Taking into consideration that some travel systems can cost anywhere up to £1,100, the Stomp V3 has a price tag of £499.99 with savings of £100 from it's original £599.99 recommended retail price, which is nothing to be scoffed at.

However, the Stomp V3 can range in price depending on where it's bought from and the design chosen. Amazon offers the Stomp V3 from the range of £499.99 - £599.99. Ickle Bubba firmly lists the product at £499.99. Whereas the most expensive option, Boots, retails at £549.99.

Key Features and Specifications of the Ickle Bubba Stomp V3 Travel System

Age suitability? Suitable from birth to 22kg (approx. 4 years)

Dimensions? 61 cm x 95 cm x 104 cm

Weight? 7kg

• Four different seating positions

• Built-in dual suspension

• Lockable front wheels

• Large puncture proof foam tyres

• UPF 50+ hood with multi-position settings

• Reclining seat unit

• 5-point safety harness

• Adjustable handle

• Removable bumper bar

• Easy to operate foot break

• Large shopping basket

• Coordinating footmuff

• Seat liner

• Changing bag and mat

• Car seat adaptors

• Two sun visors

• Rain cover

Testing the Ickle Bubba Stomp V3 Travel System

At Mother & Baby, we were assisted with help from our Mother & Baby Testers to review the Ickle Bubba Stomp V3 Travel System. During the testing process, we were testing for its overall performance, usability and build. Here's what our testers had to say about the Stomp V3.

Mother & Baby Tester, Devon, said: "I would recommend the Stomp V3 to other mums, as not only is it good value for money with the ISOFIX base included, but the design is also lovely. I really liked the flexi hood on the car seat and pram and the seat can recline into three different positions, which is really handy. The pram also has a large netted shopping basket underneath which is brilliant for carrying shopping and all the supplies you need when out with a little one.

I found the Stomp V3 to be extremely lightweight – it was very easy to move around and assemble. I also found that the added inclusion of the ISOFIX within the package very useful; it made getting my baby in and out of the car very easy, as I just had to clip the car seat in and unclip it get it out. No more stretching the belt around the car seat which is a relief as I own a small three door car!"

Mother & Baby Tester, Jessica, said: "I would definitely recommend the Stomp V3 to my friends – it is incredibly good value for money, and you truly don't need to think about anything else (such as a foot muff in cold weather) as it comes with everything you need! I need to go up and down steps to get in and out of my house and was particularly pleased with the lightweight chassis and the fact I can fold down the pram without having to remove the seat. As I live in the centre of a city, the large shopping basket is great and holds my changing bag as well as other shopping. I think the pram looks stylish and can compete with the more expensive looking prams.

An all in one travel system is perfect for parents who need to use a car regularly as the car seat can just clip onto the pram chassis – this is especially convenient when heading to the supermarket, or for a quick trip into town. It is also great for when you have a sleeping baby and you don't want to disturb them. The additional benefit is that the product comes with a carrycot and a seat which both clip onto the chassis, meaning that the travel system is usable for many years."

Mother & Baby Tester, Samantha, said: "This pushchair made my life easier as the large hood pulls right over the baby, which is great in the hot weather or when it’s raining, but also if you have a baby that struggles to switch off and sleep when out and about. Being an active family, we also found that we could jog with the pushchair as it was so lightweight."

Mother & Baby Tester, Claire, said: "For the price, you can't fault the Stomp V3, as it really is value for money. If you are a mum on a budget – this is for you. Equally, this would be a great bundle for a regular caregiver, as they can have the system ready to use easily when they are looking after the child. Also, it is not bulky to store or transport, and for a busy mum, this would be ideal."

Mother & Baby Tester, Leanne, said: "I would as I loved the size and material of the hood – I found it really big and airy. On hot days, your baby is protected by the hood which is really reassuring. The pram is very light and bouncy to push, in fact, I was able to take my baby out for a run with the pram! I found being able to change the main seat into a carrycot just by changing over the material was a big plus, both in terms of ease and storage."

How does the Ickle Bubba Stomp V3 Travel System compare to previous versions?

Ickle bubba stomp v2.

The Stomp V2 is the previous version from Ickle Bubba, launched in 2014. So, what has improved since the creation of the Stomp V3? Just take a look at this demonstrative video from Baby Security and Ickle Bubba to see the main differences between the Stomp V2 and Stomp V3.

The main thing you'll notice between the two is the appearance, with the Stomp V3 looking much more premium than it's predecessor. Made with more muted colours on offer and better quality materials, the Stomp V3 is a more streamlined, sleek and sturdy product.

Another thing is the addition of accessories, with the Stomp V3 also including a changing bag and mat, sun visors and more. However, it's main similarities are convenience, with the two products offering versatility that is sure to come in handy when transporting baby.

How does the Ickle Bubba Stomp V3 Travel System compare to rival products?

Finally, our testers helped us to weigh up the comparisons between the Ickle Bubba Stomp V3 Travel System and other competitors on the market. Here's what our testers had to say about whether the Stomp V3 stood up to other rival products.

Mother & Baby Tester, Devon, said: "Personally, I would not buy this product for myself as it lacked character – I prefer the vibrant, bold designs of the Cosatto travel system. The newborn cot part of the pram was not sturdy – the base of the cot was very flimsy and came away easily. The quality of the finish was also a sign of the price, as the plastic was thin and frayed in areas. The pram was very light, which can be a bonus, but it also felt like it could fall over easily. In general, I felt that the overall quality of the travel system was not what I would usually go for; however, I would recommend it to parents who are looking for a more affordable travel system."

Mother & Baby Tester, Samantha, said: "Yes, I would recommend this product as a cost-effective travel system. I don't feel that the quality is as good as some alternatives on the market, however there are some good features. I use an iCandy and you can feel the difference in the quality of product. There are certain features that I would like to have, in particular the large hood and lightweight design, but I found the Stomp V3 quite flimsy. That said, for the price I do think it is good for value."

Mother & Baby Tester, Claire, said: "I would recommend the Stomp V3 to a mum on a budget – it has everything you need to get from A to B and Ickle Bubba have done all the thinking for you here. The pram and buggy pieces fit on the same frame (similar to the bugaboo setup) and this makes storing the travel system easier when not in use. You get a lot of bang for your buck and it is practical, functional and actually fairly stylish.

This is a one stop shop for all your transport needs – pram, buggy, car seat and ISOFIX base. It even comes with a changing bag and all the rain covers as standard. It's easy to transfer the car seat to the buggy frame and you don't have to purchase separate car adapters as you do with many other higher priced buggies.

The car seat is much lighter than others on the market which is a definite plus, and the system to adjust the height of the straps was great. However, when it comes to car seat, this seems much less supportive if you were in an accident – it seemed less robust than other brands on the market, which would make me pause before purchasing."

Mother & Baby Tester, Jessica, said: "Unfortunately, I wouldn't choose this product above others on the market. I couldn't use the car seat in my car as I do not have ISOFIX settings. I also found my son sliding to the top end of the carry cot, which made me worry that it was not secure enough."

Final thoughts

In summary, the Ickle Bubba Stomp V3 Travel System stood out as being a fairly affordable travel system to most, and some of our Mother & Baby testers were amazed with the amount of accessories that it came with. A lot of our testers praised this model as making their life easier due to convenience and practicality. Not to mention, the incredibly lightweight chassis making it easier to transport.

However, some of the testers prefered their own travel systems due to the fact they felt the Stomp V3 was a little flimsy, lacking in support and of a lower quality than their own. Despite this, the Ickle Bubba Stomp V3 travel system remains a contender in the list of affordable travel systems.

How to use the Ickle Bubba Stomp V3 Travel System?

ISOFIX An ISOFIX base is an internationally standardised car seat fitting system. It automatically locks your car seat or car seat base onto two metal clips called ISOFIX fixing points.

Travel system A travel system is a buggy with a detachable car seat. The car seat can be easily secured or detached from your buggy to make it as easy as possible for you to move baby from the car to the buggy.

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!)

Click Here For More City Street Guides!

(A New Guide Posted Every Other Wednesday)

Comment Here! Cancel reply

For patreon exclusive educational content:.

Limited Edition Postcard Prints!

Street Photography Workshops

Donations Always Appreciated

I'll always keep Shooter Files free for everyone, but any donations would be greatly appreciated and help me keep it going. Many thanks to everyone following along!

Cheers! -f.d. walker

Search the Files

For Exclusive Patron Content:

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

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

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

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

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

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

Read Next: Things To Do on Socotra

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

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

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

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

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

How to Get a Decent Haircut in a Foreign Country

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel Itinerary for One Week in Beijing

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

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

How I Planned My Trip to Vietnam

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

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

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

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

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

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

Places to Visit in Barcelona That Aren’t Beaches

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

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

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

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

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

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

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

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

20 Travel Tips I’ve Learned From Travelling The World

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

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

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

12 Stunning National Parks and Regional Parks In France

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

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

How To Stop Procrastinating When Trip Planning

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

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

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

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

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

Two Weeks In Thailand: The Perfect 14-Day Itinerary

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

You Will Also Like: 3-Day London Itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

How to Save Money While Traveling in Europe

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

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

Conclusion and Recommendations

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

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

JOIN MY FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER!

Email Address *

YOU WILL ALSO LIKE

10 Dishes You Must Try When Going To Moscow

15 Fantastic and Easy Day Trips Close to Moscow

When Is the Best Time To Visit Russia

24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

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

MindTheTravel

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

Mariella Blago

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

Thanks, Mariella!

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

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

Tara Pittman

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

Adriana Lopez

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

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

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

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

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

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

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

DANA GUTKOWSKI

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

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

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

Reesa Lewandowski

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

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

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

Chelsea Pearl

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

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

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

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

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

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

My website uses cookies so that I can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to my website and helping me to understand which sections of Mind The Travel you find most interesting and useful.

You can adjust all of your cookie settings by navigating the tabs on the left hand side.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that I can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, I will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit my website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

2018 Primetime Emmy & James Beard Award Winner

R&K Insider

Join our newsletter to get exclusives on where our correspondents travel, what they eat, where they stay. Free to sign up.

A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

Featured city guides.