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7 of the best day trips from Nice: see more of the Côte d'Azur

Jan 13, 2022 • 5 min read

Explore more of the Côte d'Azur with these day trips from Nice Chalffy / Getty Images

With its spectacular arcing beaches, sun-kissed climate and old-world cool, Nice has been the busy city center of the Côte d'Azur for more than a century. But while the French Riviera’s largest city has myriad charms, there’s plenty to explore in the surrounding areas too. 

From the glittering glamor of Monaco’s yacht-filled harbor to chic hilltop villages like St-Paul de Vence, it’s no surprise the cinematic landscapes of this famous corner of France have attracted artists for generations. Here are a few ideas for short but sweet getaways from Nice.

Why go: Feel inspired by Fitzgerald

F Scott Fitzgerald used Antibes’ languid cobblestone streets and breezy shoreline as inspiration for his moody classic Tender is the Night , and its charms weren’t just restricted to the prominent American Jazz Age novelist. Over the years this historic slice of the Riviera has drawn in Pablo Picasso, Claude Monet and Graham Greene, and it’s easy to see why. 

While Antibes is awash with tourists during the summer, make sure to explore the 16th-century star-shaped Fort Carré  and the surprisingly varied Picasso Museum , and take a peek at the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc , styled by Fitzgerald in Tender is the Night as the enigmatic Hôtel des Étrangers. 

Grab one of Jean-Luc Pelé’s creative gourmet sandwiches for lunch at L'Atelier Jean-Luc Pelé , and in the evening head for Lucas Marini’s cosy l’Arazur . Don’t miss the colorful Marché Provençal for a taste of Antibes’ freshest and finest.

How to get to Antibes 

There are frequent trains down the coast to Antibes, and the journey takes just over half an hour. The coast-hugging section of the route after Villeneuve-Loubet is worth the price of a ticket alone.

Why go: Experience the Riviera’s glamour capital

Monaco is a bizarre place. There’s an air of the absurd about it, and yet its hedonistic quirks are also the city-state’s most beguiling draw. High-rise apartments look out over a marina packed with bloated super-yachts, while the famous Grand Prix racetrack snakes its way through narrow roads and tunnels.

Lose yourself for a moment in a James Bond fantasy at the Monte Carlo Casino , before heading to the wonderful end-of-pier oyster bar Les Perles de Monte-Carlo . You may never be able to afford to live here, but this sumptuous spot will make you feel like royalty for a day.

How to get to Monaco

The train is the best way to get to Monaco from Nice, with frequent departures taking less than 30 minutes from Nice-Ville station. There's also regular bus service, but the train is a smoother ride and has simple connections to Menton too.

St-Paul de Vence

Why go: tour some hilltop art galleries.

You only need to wake up to another glorious deep-blue morning on the French Riviera to see why artists like Monet, Cezanne and Van Gogh were so drawn by its light. Perched high up in the dense hills northwest of Nice, St-Paul de Vence was a favorite of many visiting artists, and the small medieval village boasts almost as many galleries as it has restaurants. 

The Fondation Maeght features a vast amount of 20th-century art, while the Gallerie Otéro is dedicated to unusual, derivative and contemporary art. Take a break at the evocative Café De La Place , or mix art with food at the La Colombe d’Or . An old favorite of Picasso and Matisse, this famous stone auberge features wonderful framed canvasses on its high walls.

How to get to St-Paul de Vence

The most cost-effective way to tackle this day trip from Nice is via tram and bus. Take the tram from the city center to station Parc Phoenix, and then jump on the meandering 400 bus. Journey time is one hour and 40 minutes. If there’s a group of you, splitting a taxi fare for the 19km (11.8-mile) journey would save much more time. 

Île Ste-Marguerite

Why go: escape to a bio-diverse haven.

While Cannes does have its pluses – the fabulous views from the craggy piers and beaches to the west of the harbor, for example – the nearby island of Ste-Marguerite is a tranquil escape from a well-trodden tourist town. Just a 10-minute boat ride from the marina, the larger of the Îles de Lérins is a densely forested natural haven, and its coastline and the Étang du Batéguier lake is home to colorful birdlife such as ring-necked pheasants, Eurasian hoopoes and European goldfinches. 

There are 20km (12.4 miles) of lush forest trails and paths to explore, but it’s the southern coast’s wild rocky coves that really set Ste-Marguerite apart. You could eat at the conveniently placed L’escale restaurant , but it’s better to pack a picnic and head for the coves east of Pointe du Dragon. With exceptional tree-framed views of the Massif de l’Esterel’s soaring peaks across the shimmering Mediterranean, Ste-Marguerite's secluded southern coast is the finest (and cheapest) lunch spot on the Riviera.

How to get to Île Ste-Marguerite

The TER train from Nice takes about 40 minutes to Cannes, and it’s then a 15-minute walk to the marina, followed by a 10-minute journey by boat to the island. Boats leave every hour and the last one back to Cannes departs at 6:00pm. 

Why go: Experience a wild change of pace

The easy-going coastal towns east and west of Nice are ideal for lounging on the beach or enjoying happy hour cocktails in the sun, but if you’re looking for a chaotic change of pace, then make for Marseille . France’s second-largest city, Marseille is effervescent and rough around the edges, but get the lay of the land first from the 154m (505ft) summit of La Garde. Its panoramas are breathtaking, and the byzantine Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde is gorgeous inside and out.

Head back down and walk around the bobbing white sails of the vast Vieux Port to the Musée des Civilisations de l’Europe et de la Méditerranée , a stunning museum exploring the history, culture and civilization of the Mediterranean region. 

As a large port city, Marseille is a cocktail of cultures, and that’s reflected in its food. Sample bouillabaisse, the city’s signature fish stew,  at Chez Michel , a family-run restaurant where locals have been coming since 1946. No city in France has a more intimate relationship with the cooking of North Africa, so head to Chez Yassine for classic Tunisian dishes such as ojja , brik , and lablabi .

How to get to Marseille

Marseille can be reached by the TER train in less than three hours. Though you can enjoy a full day if you leave early in the morning, consider stopping the night to make the most of this pulsating and underrated city.

This article was first published Feb 22, 2021 and updated Jan 13, 2022.

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9 Prettiest Day Trips from Nice, France by Train or Bus

Nice is a popular seaside destination in the beautiful southwest corner of France. The weather is pretty temperate year-round, though the water isn’t warm enough until May to enjoy a dip in the ocean (at least at a pleasant temperature).

I’ve visited Nice twice, and I took the opportunity my second time around to explore the surrounding area, from medieval hilltop villages to a border town in Italy. Here are some of the prettiest day trips I took, all of which are accessible by public transport.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning that I earn a small commission on any bookings or purchases made through those links. This doesn’t cost you any extra, and it’s a great way to support my blog, if you found this post helpful  :)

Table of Contents

Transportation around Nice

Before I dive in, I want to share a few important details about transport in the area. All of these day trips can be reached by public transport in under 1 hour, whether by train or by bus.

If you take the bus, each single ticket is 1,50€, but you can make unlimited transfers within 74 minutes. You can also buy a 10 pack of tickets for 10€ at the tram stop machines or Ligne d’Azur boutiques. There is also a day pass for 5€ and a week pass for 15€, which include unlimited rides in that time frame. Keep in mind that these special passes don’t work for Monaco, Menton, or Saint-Paul-de-Vence; for these destinations, you’ll need to buy the single 1,50€ ticket.

If you take the train, all day trips I’ve suggested are on the Nice-Ventimiglia (Ventimille in French) line. You should know that on this line, it’s very common for train staff to check if you have a valid ticket. If you don’t, you could be fined.

You should also know that there are two train stations in Nice: Nice Ville and Nice Riquier. Nice Ville is the main train station, and Nice Riquier is the stop right after. See which station is closer to where you’re staying before booking train tickets.

Finally, if you don’t want to deal with transport yourself, know that there are plenty of day tours that will take you to several towns around the French Riviera for around $100. I’ve included some of the most popular ones below.

Map of Day Trips from Nice, France by Train or Bus

Here’s a map of these day trips so you can plan out your travels more easily and situate where they are in relation to Nice.

Beautiful Day Trips from Nice, France by Public Transport

Here are my favorite day trips from Nice that are easy to access. This list includes seaside towns, hilltop villages, and more.

1. Èze Village

Distance from Nice:  30 minutes by bus.

What to do there:  Èze Village is a hilltop medieval village. It’s home to artisan shops, traditional restaurants, and a  lovely botanical garden  overlooking the Mediterranean. Entrance to the garden ranges from 3,50€-6€; once inside, you’ll find many exotic plants, beautiful viewpoints, and places to just sit and relax.

How to get there:   Bus 82  from Gare Routière Nice Côte d’Azur towards Plateau de la Justice (1,50€ one way). Get off at Plateau de la Justice, which is a short walk from Èze Village. You can also take the train to Èze (~3€ one way) and hike up to the village (4.2km/2.6mi, 50 minutes) via the Nietzsche Path . It’s a pretty steep hike, but has good views along the way—I personally hiked up to the village, and then took a bus back.

Looking for a place to stay?  Check out this  villa with an ocean view , right in the medieval village. You can also find  several hotels  in the area.

2. Ventimiglia, Italy (Ventimille)

Distance from Nice: 1 hour by train

What to do there: Ventimiglia, Italy is just across the border, and is so close to France that many locals will actually speak French. There’s a Friday outdoor market that draws quite a crowd—there, you can find local food items like pasta, artisan gifts, or inexpensive clothing. You can also walk up to the hilltop old town to get your share of colorful buildings and old architecture.

How to get there: The local French trains have a line with the final stop in Ventimiglia (Ventimille in French). Tickets cost ~9€ one way.

Looking for a place to stay?  Check out this apartment with a beautiful ocean view . You can also find several hotels in the area.

3. Saint-Paul-de-Vence

Distance from Nice: 1 hour by bus

What to do there: Saint-Paul-de-Vence is another quaint medieval hilltop village with independent art galleries, fine jewelry stores, and classic restaurants. It offers lovely views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.

How to get there: Take the 400 bus from Parc Phoenix towards Vence and get off at the St. Paul – Village stop. Tickets cost 1,50€ one way.

Looking for a place to stay?  Check out this centrally-located apartment with a swimming pool . You can also find several hotels in the area.

Photos used with permission of Ellie from The Ginger Wanderlust. See her Provence & French Riviera Road Trip Itinerary for more travel ideas! I specifically would recommend the Gorges du Verdon, which you can only access by car from Nice.

Distance from Nice: 40 minutes by train

What to do there:  Menton is seaside town with gorgeous, colorful houses. Lie out by the beach, visit the Serre de la Madone Botanical garden, or pick up some local lemon products (a specialty of the town).

How to get there: Take the train going to Ventimiglia (Ventimille) and get off at the Menton stop. Tickets cost ~6€ one way.

Looking for a place to stay?  Check out this apartment with a terrace, ocean view, and fruit trees in the lush backyard . You can also find several hotels in the area.

5. Monaco and Monte Carlo

Distance from Nice: 30 minutes by train

What to do there:  Monaco is technically its own country and is governed by Prince Albert II. You can view the Prince’s castle from the outside, stroll through the colorful old town, and visit the Oceanographic Museum. The museum was built by Prince Albert I and is home to thousands of species of fish; there’s also a floor showcasing the work of Prince Albert I as a navigator and marine researcher.

While you’re in Monaco, you can also stroll down to the glitzy Monte Carlo neighborhood, featured in many films, and home to high-end shops and a casino. This small country is known for being quite a pricey place, but visiting Monaco on a budget is still quite possible.

How to get there: Take the train towards Ventimiglia (Ventimille) and get off at the Monaco – Monte Carlo stop. Tickets cost ~4€ one way.

Looking for a place to stay?  Check out this renovated studio in the heart of Monte Carlo . You can also find several hotels in the area.

6. Villefranche-sur-Mer

Distance from Nice: 10 minutes by train, 20 minutes by bus, or 1 hour walk along the coast from Nice Port

What to do there:  Villfranche-sur-Mer is colorful fishing village home to a beach, waterfront restaurants, and picturesque alleyways. It’s a very calm and residential area, so there’s not a ton to do, but it’s a lovely place to walk around. You can also visit the Citadelle Saint-Elme, an old fort that now houses free art museums (sculptures, modern art, ceramics), and public gardens.

How to get there: Take the train from Nice towards Ventimiglia (Ventimille) and get off at Villefranche-sur-Mer. Tickets cost ~2€ one way. You can also take Bus 100 towards Menton and get off at Léopold II (2,50€ one way). If you want a long, scenic walk, you can also hug the coastline leaving Nice and reach Villefranche-sur-Mer by foot.

Looking for a place to stay?  Check out this charming apartment with a terrace and stunning view of the harbor . You can also find several hotels in the area.

Other Popular Day Trips from Nice, France

There are a handful of other cities that are highly-recommended, but are either harder to get to, or don’t appear to have the same charm of the other day trips (in my opinion). Even so, they might be something that pique your interest.

I’d actually love to visit Grasse at some point, as it’s another beautiful medieval hilltop village. It’s most famous as a hub of perfume-making—you can learn about the history of perfume-making and even create your own scents . The old town features winding streets and colorful buildings.

It is slightly further away from Nice though, as the train takes 1 hour, and the Grasse train station is about 1mi/1.6 km away from the town (and an uphill walk). The fare is also more expensive, at ~11€ one way. The 500 bus takes you directly there though, in 1.5 hours, and costs 1,50€ one way.

Cannes is best-known for its international film festival, held annually in late May. Beyond the festival though, you’ll find upscale shops, a long promenade, and beaches.

This seems to be a place that appeals more to people with loads of money (not me lol), so I didn’t make the visit. It’s still supposed to be a nice town to see, however. You can take the train for ~8€ one-way and get to Cannes in 40 minutes from Nice.

Antibes is another wealthy beach town, but offers some medieval charm. The old town is fortified and said to be maze-like. The town is also a good starting point for coastal hikes, is home to a Picasso museum, and has a vibrant daily market. You can reach the town by train in 20 minutes from Nice, and fares are around 5€ one way.

Where to Stay in Nice, France

If you want to make Nice your starting point for these lovely day trips, I have a few Airbnb suggestions!

Budget: I stayed in this Airbnb for my first trip to Nice, and the host (Olivier) took me hiking and swimming. The second time I went to Nice, he took me skiing. He’s a very involved host, and often offers to pick you up from the airport or train station, and even shares meals with his guests. The apartment isn’t the most aesthetic, but it’s still a perfectly fine place to stay, and Olivier definitely keeps things interesting! He’s very giving, and even gave me a CD when I told him I liked the music.

Moderate:  Here’s a studio in the heart of the city with a terrace. It’s conveniently located near Place Massena, and only a brief walk from restaurants and shops.

Fancy: Hotel Negresco is one of the most iconic sites in Nice—you’ve probably seen an Instagram pic of its beautiful exterior. The hotel is right along the famous Promenade des Anglais and overlooks the beach.

What to Pack for a Trip to France

There are a couple essentials you’ll need for a trip to France, if you’re coming from outside the EU. These links go to Amazon if you’re planning to shop there anyways, but I also want to encourage you to buy from small, local shops, if you can.

• Water shoes —The beaches in the French Riviera are often rocky, and it can be helpful to have something to protect your feet!
• Universal adapter —I used this one during my one-year stay in France, and when I traveled to the UK. There are options with USB or USB C charging ports.
• European SIM card —You can buy SIM cards once in France (I recommend Lycamobile, which is cheap and can be found in many “tabac” or corner shops). But, if you want cell service upon arrival, you’ll need to buy something at home, or at the airport. This SIM card has good reviews, but feel free to shop around as well.

If you have any questions about these trips, feel free to leave a comment or shoot me an email.

For more content related to France:

3 Days in Bordeaux, France French vs. American Culture: 7 Surprising Differences How to Become an English Lecteur in France

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This was the perfect post for me to stumble on this morning. I’ve been finding myself spending a lot of time out on the porch when the sun is shining — I lay down, close my eyes, and let the sun on my skin trick me into believing I’m somewhere far away in Europe. And the lovely destinations you shared in this post are exactly what I picture! Thanks for inspiring some much needed wanderlust in me :)

Thanks for visiting, Julie! I could use a good dose of sun and daydreaming of travel, too :)

Nice is not somewhere that would have been typically on my list when planning a trip to France. Seeing all these day trips from there, it certainly looks like it could be used as a base for further exploration!

It’s a very trendy destination, but I actually prefer all the surrounding small cities and villages :) That’s why I visited Nice twice – to be able to explore the surrounding area!

Hi! Thanks for this, it’s great. The Airbnb links you left didn’t work for me, they just take me to the Airbnb homepage. Would you be able to let me know which that budget one was? Thanks!

Hi Holly! Thanks for letting me know. I just updated the links. This is the host for the budget option in Nice: https://www.airbnb.com/users/show/97770427

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Home > France > 25 Best Villages Near Nice, France: Villages on the French Riviera

25 Best Villages Near Nice, France: Villages on the French Riviera

By Dymphe / January 10, 2023

Visiting the best villages near Nice is amazing if you're in France . There are gorgeous villages on the French Riviera you have to see!

Nice is a large city in France and going there is amazing. There are many things to do in Nice, such as seeing the castle of Nice and shopping. Even though there are many activities and sights, spending one day in Nice is perfect to see it all.

For that reason, when you're in Nice for a longer time, you can see even more! I'd definitely recommend seeing some gorgeous villages close to the city.

The amount of pretty little villages that are close to Nice will definitely surprise you!

As there are so many lovely villages, it can be hard to decide where to go. For that reason, I made this list of the best villages near Nice to help you out!

First, I'll give you some tips for visiting them. After that, you can find the list of the best villages. I also included information on how to get to all the villages.

Table of Contents

Tips for visiting the best villages near Nice

Visiting the best villages near Nice is a great experience that you'll enjoy for sure! But there are some ways to make your experience even better.

First, you can buy a day pass for the public transport in the city of Nice and its buses.

This can save you lots of money if you want to visit many places, such as these villages.

And this is especially so if you visit several villages in one day!

Second, when you are traveling all day, your phone may run out of battery.

In larger cities, there are lots of places where you can charge your phone. But in these small villages, there are almost no possibilities for that.

Thus, I recommend taking a battery pack with you. This allows you to travel all day without worrying about your phone running out of battery. It will make visiting the places much more convenient!

Best Villages Near Nice, France

Let's start the list! If you love beautiful villages with great things to do, I'm sure you will love these ones close to Nice.

Below, you can find the 25 best villages near Nice, France!

The first village is Èze. Èze is definitely one of the best villages near Nice. You can find this village about 8 miles (or 12.5 kilometers) from Nice.

What's great about the village is that it is on top of a hill. From there you have a wonderful view of the sea! This makes it a very popular day trip from Nice.

Also, because you can find the village on top of a hill, it looks great from afar!

Another great thing about the village is the Jardin Botanique d'Èze. Here you can see all kinds of cacti.

You can also find beautiful picturesque buildings in the village. Many of these are from Medieval times.

Also, the village of Èze is a very convenient place to go to as there are many facilities. For example, there are lots of restaurants, shops, and hotels.

How to get there?

To reach the village, you can take bus 82 to Plateau de la Justice. This is a direct bus and the journey takes about 30 minutes.

2. Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is another village you should see. You can find this village on a peninsula to the southeast of the city of Nice.

One of the reasons why it belongs to the best villages near Nice is its history. The history of the village stretches back to the time of Ancient Greece.

One of the best things to do see here is Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild . This is a beautiful villa, and the garden of the villa is one of the best gardens in France! Sind 1934 the villa is a public place, which is great!

Also, you can find beautiful beaches at Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.

To get to the village by public transport, you first need to take the train to Beaulieu-sur-Mer. From there, you can take bus 15 to the village!

3. Aspremont

The next one of the best villages near Nice is Aspremont.

From here you have a beautiful far view of the surrounding landscape.

The little streets of the village are wonderful to see and wander through. There are cobbled stone streets that look very picturesque.

Another great thing to see in this village is the pretty church with the bell tower.

To reach the village of Aspremont you can travel by public transportation. First, you need to take the L1 tram from Thiers Station to Comte de Falicon. From there you can take bus 76 towards Castagniers and you get off at the stop Village.

4. Cap-d’Ail

Another one of the best villages on the French Riviera is Cap-d'Ail. This is a beautiful village on the French Riviera that is close to the country of Monaco.

Cap-d'Ail is a resort village with many shops. This makes it a great place to go to if you like shopping!

Also, there are many great beaches at Cap-d'Ail. Mala Beach is a great one that looks beautiful. Also, the nature that surrounds this beach is stunning!

What's great is that it is very easy to reach this village. That's because there is a direct train connection from the city of Nice. This train journey takes about 20 minutes.

Besides that, you can also go to the village by car. This journey takes about 40 minutes, which is much longer than the journey by train. Thus, I recommend going by train!

5. St Paul de Vence

Another one of the best villages near Nice is St Paul de Vence. It is a great Medieval village on the French Riviera.

Another thing that makes this village special is the number of museums here. In particular, you can find here modern and contemporary art museums and galleries.

The combination of the old buildings in the village and the new art is amazing!

That's in part because many famous artists visited this village. Some of these artists include Picasso and Sartre.

You can get to the village of St Paul de Vence by car in about 30 minutes. The journey has a length of about 12 miles (or 20 kilometers).

Gourdon is also a great village near the city of Nice.

The best thing about this village is the wonderful views you can get here. That's because you can find Gourdon on top of a hill.

Another thing that is great about the village of Gourdon is the architecture you find here. There are lots of wonderful Medieval buildings and some of these date back to the 9th century.

Also, there are beautiful gardens in the village!

The easiest way to get to Gourdon is by car. The journey takes about 50 minutes and has a length of about 25 miles (or 40 kilometers).

7. Sainte-Agnès

Sainte-Agnès is a beautiful village near the city of Nice.

You can find the village on top of a hill. From there you have a wonderful view of the town of Menton and the sea!

Furthermore, many mountains surround the village, which is stunning too! That's also why Sainte-Agnès belongs to the best villages near Nice.

Also, the buildings of the village are lovely and very picturesque.

To reach the village of Sainte-Agnès, the fastest route is by car. The time it takes to do this trip from Nice is about 45 minutes.

Furthermore, if you want to travel by public transport, you can do so too! From Nice, you can first take a train to the town of Menton and then take a bus.

The next one of the gorgeous villages on the French Riviera is Peillon.

You can find the village surrounded by lots of mountains. It is a cluster of houses on a hill and this looks amazing!

What's unique about the village is that there are no roads leading up to the village. There are only stairs!

You can get to the village of Peillon by public transport. For this, you first need to take bus 14 towards Les Chênes Verts and then get out at La Chaumière. From there, you can take bus 66 to La Turbie and stop at Le Téléphérigue. From there, you have to walk for about 30 minutes.

But the fastest way to get to the village is by car. This journey takes about 26 minutes.

9. La Turbie

Another one of the best villages on the French Riviera is La Turbie. It is also close to the country of Monaco, which you can see from the village.

This is a village with a long history that started during the Roman Empire, which is very interesting!

You can find here the Trophy of Augustus, which is a large monument from that time. This monument celebrated the victory of Augustus over the tribes of Liguria.

This monument explains the name of La Turbie, which looks like the word for the trophy in Latin.

Getting to La Turbie by public transport is easy. You can take bus 66 from Pont Michel to La Turbie. This is a direct connection, which takes about 30 minutes.

The fastest way to get to the village is by car. This journey takes about 25 minutes.

10. Tourrettes-sur-Loup

Tourrettes-sur-Loup is another one of the best villages near Nice.

You can find here lots of medieval buildings that look amazing.

Furthermore, the village has a great history!

To reach the village of Tourrettes-sur-Loup, the best way is by car. This journey takes about 50 minutes.

11. Castagniers

There is a lot to do and see in the village Castagniers.

For example, there are many hiking trails. This allows you to walk through the nature that surrounds the village.

Another great sight in the village is Castagniers Abbey, which is great to see!

Also, there are lots of beautiful buildings in the village!

From Gare de Nice St Augustin in the city of Nice, you can travel to the village of Castagniers by public transport. This journey takes about 1 hour.

First, you need to take tram L2 to CADAM Centre Administratif. From there you can take bus 59 to the village of Castagniers.

It is also possible to go there by car. This journey takes about 30 minutes.

12. Courmes

Courmes is another one of the best villages near Nice and a great village on the French Riviera.

One of the best things to do in Courmes is visiting the Waterfall of Courmes . This is a very impressive waterfall to see that has a height of more than 40 meters.

Another great thing in the village is seeing the houses that are from Medieval times. The architecture in the village is great to see!

Also, if you love hiking then this village is great for you. There are lots of hiking trails that take you through the surroundings of the village.

The best way to reach the village of Courmes is by car. From Nice, the journey takes about 1 hour and the length of the journey is 25 miles (or 40 kilometers).

13. La Colle-sur-Loup

La Colle-sur-Loup is another village that I recommend visiting when you are in the city of Nice.

One of the best things to do in the village is to visit the castle. This is a beautiful castle that is from the Middle Ages. Much of the castle is still left, which is amazing!

Also, the streets of the village are great! What I like very much is that there are lots of trees that look great with the architecture of the houses.

For example, there are palm trees everywhere!

The easiest way to get to the village is by car. This journey takes about 30 minutes.

14. Beaulieu-sur-Mer

Beaulieu-sur-Mer is a very small village that is definitely worth visiting!

The gardens in the village are great. Nature there is beautiful to see and it makes the gardens a very relaxing place.

Besides that, the port of Beaulieu-sur-Mer looks very charming. It features a beautiful color of blue and lots of small boats.

Also, the buildings in this village are great! The architecture looks very pretty and very stylish.

Beaulieu-sur-Mer is one of the villages that is closest to the city of Nice. Because of that, it is very easy to reach it. From the center of the city, you can take a direct train to Beaulieu-sur-Mer. This journey takes a bit more than 10 minutes.

Also, you can drive there by car, which takes a bit more time. This journey takes about 25 minutes, so I recommend going by train instead!

15. Villeneuve-Loubet

Villeneuve-Loubet is one of the best villages near Nice on the French Riviera.

The old village is great to see. It is a very picturesque place with lots of beautiful small houses.

Furthermore, there are lots of flowers in the village, which is beautiful.

Another great thing to see is the Saint-Christophe church. This is a beautiful church with a belltower!

You can reach Villeneuve-Loubet by first taking a train to Saint-Laurent-du-var. From there, you have to take bus 9 towards Routière de l'Ara and get off at La Grange Rimade. This stop is near the village of Villeneuve-Loubet.

16. Colomars

Colomars is also one of the best villages on the French Riviera.

It is a small village with lots of beautiful nature that surrounds it. There is a variety of trees here, including olive trees.

Nature makes the village a very relaxing place to go. It is great for hiking or for wandering around!

Another great thing to do in Colomars is visiting the fortress. This is a fortress from the end of the 19th century that is very interesting.

The village of Colomars is very close to the city of Nice. From there you can reach the village within about 15 minutes by car.

Besides that, you can also get to the village by public transport. But this takes a lot longer, so I wouldn't recommend that!

17. Roquefort-les-Pins

Roquefort-les-Pins is another great village near the city of Nice. You find here lots of great houses that are wonderful to see. Moreover, there are lots of villas in the village of Roquefort-les-Pins.

Also, it is a very relaxing place to be because of the nature of the village. This makes wandering around here great.

The easiest way to reach the village of Roquefort-les-Pins is by car. This journey takes about 40 minutes, but depending on traffic, it can be 10 minutes less or more. Moreover, the length of the journey is 15 miles (or 25 kilometers).

18. Le Broc

Another one of the best villages near Nice is Le Broc.

What's great about Le Broc is that there are lots of charming little streets in the village.

Also, there are lots of old houses made of stone that look wonderful.

Strolling through the streets of the village of Le Broc is a great experience. And that's especially true in spring and summer, as then there are many flowers in the village!

Reaching the village of Le Broc by public transport isn't very convenient. That's because the fastest journey takes more than 2 hours.

Instead, I recommend visiting the village by car. The journey by car takes about 50 minutes and the length of the journey is 17 miles (or 27 kilometers).

19. Saint-Jeannet

Saint-Jeannet is another one of the best villages on the French Riviera. It is on top of a hill, which means that you have a wonderful view from up there.

You can see here lots of medieval houses, which is incredible. This makes it great if you like history. Moreover, there are lots of small alleys that are great to walk through.

By car, the journey takes about 40 minutes.

Besides that, you can go to the village by public transport and this journey takes about 1 hour.

20. La Gaude

Another one of the best villages on the French Riviera is La Gaude.

There are many lovely streets in this village that are great for wandering around.

Furthermore, there are beautiful churches in the village of La Gaude. These are wonderful to see!

Getting to the village of La Gaude is easy by public transport. You first need to take a train to Saint-Laurent-du-Var. From there, there is a direct bus connection to La Gaude. For this, you need to take bus 73 to Médiathèque and get off at Maoupas.

Carros is also one of the best villages near Nice. You can find the village on top of a hill.

Because of that, you have a wonderful view of the surrounding area. This includes the mountains near the village and the sea.

Also, it is great to wander around the medieval center of the village. Moreover, there are lots of wonderful medieval buildings in the small streets!

The fastest way to get to the village of Carros is by car. Moreover, this journey takes about 40 minutes.

Besides that, you can travel by public transport. For this, you can take tram L2 to CADAM Centre Administratif. Then you can take bus 22 to the village of Carros.

22. Le Bar sur Loup

You should also definitely visit Le Bar sur Loup when you are in Nice.

One of the best things to see in this village is the old castle.

Another interesting sight is the church of Saint-Jacques-le-Majeur that looks amazing!

The most convenient way to go to Le Bar sur Loup is by car. The journey by car takes about 1 hour.

23. Gréolières

Gréolières is another one of the best villages on the French Riviera.

Mountains surround this village, which looks amazing. Especially during winter, this looks beautiful because of the snow on the mountains. But it's also beautiful during the other seasons.

Also, the buildings of the village look very pretty!

You can reach the village of Gréolières by car in a bit more than 1 hour.

24. Mougins

The village of Mougins is also a great village to visit near the city of Nice.

It is a very pretty village, which is one of the reasons Picasso and other artists stayed here. That's also why Mougins belongs to the best villages near Nice!

Furthermore, you can find here a lot of medieval architecture.

The fastest way to reach the village of Mougins is by car. This journey takes about 40 minutes.

Biot is also a great village close to the city of Nice.

This is a beautiful medieval village on top of a hill. Because of that, you have a wonderful view from here.

Furthermore, Biot is famous for its art museum dedicated to cubism with art by Fernand Leger. This is one of the reasons why people visit Biot.

The best way to get to the village of Biot is by car. This journey takes about 40 minutes.

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Day Trips from Nice to Nearby Towns, Islands and Sites

 D Vincendeau

A short train ride from Nice, Antibes is a picture-perfect French town. Walk along the ramparts looking at the view towards the pine-clad hillsides opposite; shop in the daily covered market where the freshest vegetables, flowers and fruit are laid out; visit the Château where Picasso once lived and where you can see a superb collection of his ceramics, or chill out in the small bars and bistros in the narrow winding streets that make up the Old Town.

Antibes has one of the most glamorous yacht marinas in Europe where multi-million dollar boats bob up and down in the harbour, or sit anchored just offshore, like the extraordinary yacht belonging to Roman Abramovich which would be at home on a James Bond film set.

Drive around the Cap d’Antibes for a glimpse of the villas owned, or rented, by the rich. It’s a beautiful drive with superb sea views. Make sure you stop at the small Garoupe lighthouse and church at the top of the Cap, surrounded by pine trees. The tiny fisherman’s church is full of models of ships and memorial plaques, both in thanksgiving by sailors who survived storms at sea, and, more poignantly, for those lost at sea.

Go a little further and you come to Juan-les-Pins . It has one of the great jazz festivals of France in July overlooking the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean, shops, bars and restaurants and sandy beaches. 

Glitzy and glamorous, Cannes is known for the famous annual Film Festival . The so-called 'Pearl of the Riviera', twinned with Beverly Hills, is a major convention city with international shopping on a grand scale and accommodation to match.

But like much of the south of France towns, Cannes started as a modest fishing village. It was transformed by a Brit, Lord Brougham, who stayed here by chance, and loved it so much he came back for 34 winters. He was followed by toffs, aristos and royals and Cannes was made.

Visit modern Cannes to the east for that famous shopping (there’s a great shopping festival each year over Easter). Stroll along the Croisette, the most elegant seaside promenade in Europe, where the luxury hotels lay out their parasols and lounge chairs along the sand. If you want the best, drink a cocktail in the Hotel Martinez or the Carlton, the hotels where the famous perch.

Le Suquet is the area of old Cannes and it’s still remarkably authentic with old streets, a castle and watchtower, worth a visit for the views and the Musée de la Castre with its archaeological and ethnograpical artefacts from all over the world.

Cannes was the playground for characters like F. Scott Fitzgerald, whose Great Gatsby sums up the jazz era in this part of the world. 

• Read guest reviews, compare prices and book a hotel in Cannes with TripAdvisor .

Isles de Lérins off the Cannes Coast

The Iles de Lérins , the serene islands off Cannes, represent the Mediterranean in miniature. These two islands just off Cannes are the place to go for a quiet day away from the hustle and bustle of Côte d’Azur life.

Sainte Marguerite is the island of Alexandre Dumas ’ Man in the Iron Mas k who was falsely imprisoned in the Fort Royal.

St. Honorat was, and to some extent still is, a monastic retreat. The Benedictine monks will welcome you for Sunday Mass or Vespers. If you’re in need of more peace, book for a spiritual retreat.  

• More about the Isles de Lérins
• More about the islands off the coast of France

St-Paul-de-Vence

The beautiful village perché (hilltop village) of St-Paul-de-Vence was made a ‘Royal Town’ in the 16 th century and has never quite got over it. In the 1920s it was the place for impoverished painters like Pierre Bonnard and Modigliani, then Matisse and Picasso. They lodged at the modest Auberge de la Colome d’Or, paying the bills by giving their paintings. Today the Auberge is still relatively modest, though the walls are covered with now priceless paintings and you have to book way in advance for a room or a meal.

See more superb art at the famous, privately owned  Fondation Maeght , which stands in quiet grounds, an oasis of culture.

• Read guest reviews, compare prices and book hotels in St-Paul-de-Vence with TripAdvisor.  

The Principality of Monaco

The Principality of Monaco is a tiny sovereign state, loved by gamblers and the likes of investment bankers and Formula 1 drivers who live here for the tax breaks. Ruled voer by the Grimaldi family for 700-odd years, Monaco feels like a state within a state. Its most famous stars were Prince Rainier Louis Henri Maxence Bertrand de Grimaldi (who died in 2005) and his wife, Princess Grace (who died in a car accident in 1982). You can see her tomb in the Cathedral.

Other places of interest to mere mortals are the Car Museum (formed from Prince Rainier’s private collection of classic cars), a Naval Museum, a Jardin Exotique, and an excellent Musée Océanographique. The other great attraction is the Palais du Prince.

But the star is the famous Casino.

Look at the glitzy life of Monte Carlo

• Read guest reviews, compare prices and book a hotel in Monaco with TripAdvisor .
• The Gorges du Verdon

These spectacular gorges, France’s answer to the Grand Canyon (though a little smaller), lie high up in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department. 

It’s a relatively easy drive to get here from Nice, and there’s a great castle hotel to stay at in a village just off the main rim of the Gorges, the fabulous  Chateau de Trigance .

Either drive around theGorges, or take up one of the sports in the river way below. It’s busy in high summer, but go in the off season and you’ll have the roads to yourself. It’s worth stopping at Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, another picture-perfect village which is overrun in summer. It’s the home of many of the famous porcelain factories, but don’t expect a bargain. This is fine art at fine art prices.

• Road Trip around the Gorges du Verdon

St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Cap Ferrat juts out into the Mediterranean, a billionaire’s paradise where people like Somerset Maugham, Charlie Chaplin and David Niven lived the high life in their fabulous villas. You can drive around the Cap and out to the Lighthouse but many of the houses are hidden behind high gates. It's better to walk along the shaded path from Villefranche-sur-Mer around the Cap looking down at the rocky inlets.

One must-see place is the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild , a pink palace perched high up with a fabulous view over the sea. The villa is beautiful, with rooms of fabulous furniture. But the glory is the garden that stretches out from the main terrace. It’s full of flowers all through the year, with a stunning rose festival in May . 

• Read guest reviews, compare prices and  book a hotel in St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat with TripAdvisor.

Top 15 Destinations in the French Riviera

From Marseille to Montpellier - Top Mediterranean Cities

3-Day tour in and around fabulous Nice

Villefranche-sur-Mer on the Cote d'Azur

A Tour of West France

10 Top Things to Do on the French Riviera

The Best Time to Visit the French Riviera

Saint-Paul-de-Vence Guide

Best Mediterranean Beaches in France from St Tropez to Menton

Travel Guide for Provence in Southern France

One Week in the French Riviera: The Ultimate Itinerary

Top French Seaside Resorts from the north to the Riviera

Honeymoon in the South of France

Juan-les-Pins on the French Riviera

Top Hilltop Villages in Provence

The Finest Museums Outside Paris Are Wonderful Surprises

Home » Travel Guides » United States » California (CA) » 15 Best Day Trips from San Jose (CA)

15 Best Day Trips from San Jose (CA)

One of the most significant technological and cultural hubs in the country, San Jose, California, is a hotbed of urban prowess, entertainment and of course, has its stunning Mediterranean-like climate and topography, delivering warm, dry and sunny weather all year round.

One of the best things about San Jose is its convenient location, within arm’s reach of a number of beautiful places that are ideal for day trips.

Thanks to Northern California’s diverse landscape, you can go from surfing the waves under the hot sun to standing on a mountain peak above the clouds within the same day.

Check out this handy guide outlining some of the best day trip destinations from Silicon Valley’s San Jose.

1. Santa Cruz

The epitome of a Californian beach town and still one of the nation’s favourite destinations because of the perpetual summer vibe that can be found here, Santa Cruz is best known for its sun, beach and famous Boardwalk.

The majority of visitors will spend most of their time on the buzzing promenade enjoying the rides and games, however, Santa Cruz also has a wealth of cultural and natural attractions to offer.

The historic mission church is a fascinating and spectacular sight to behold, while destinations like Wilder Ranch State Park offer enchanting and unspoiled hiking spots, perfect for soaking up some truly unmissable views.

The town of Alameda can be found close to downtown San Jose and has strong historical and cultural roots that are apparent when wandering its charming streets full of mid-century architecture and signage.

There’s also a huge antiquing culture here, which gives the streets and shops a vintage feel that is enchanting to be immersed in, the hub of this being Park Avenue.

Here you’ll find everything from vintage clothing and apparel to fascinating trinkets from all over the world.

For a real treat, head down to the old naval base on the first Sunday of each month to visit the Alameda Antiques Faire in search of something truly unique to take home.

The true epitome of wine country and a nationwide favourite destination, Napa can be reached in less than two hours from San Jose.

It is home to some of the finest wining and dining in California.

With a vast number of tours operating in the area, it has never been easier to learn about Napa’s rich history in winemaking and sample some of the delicious end products.

Napa also offers some truly breath-taking hiking destinations due to its gently rolling foothills and orchards, and offers endless great spots for a stroll and a picnic.

4. Half Moon Bay

Another immediately recognisable and iconic Californian coastal destination is the town of Half Moon Bay; charming and quaint in equal measure, and a popular alternative to raucous Santa Cruz.

Only an hour northwest of San Jose, you’ll find this water sport haven, where kayaking in the bay and surfing in the Pacific are two of the most popular pastimes.

With many surf schools offering lessons, it’s a great place to learn during the summer, though beginners may want to take a back seat in winter as the waves grow to monstrous sizes exceeding 50-feet in height.

5. San Francisco

The iconic and classic “Golden Gate City” should be on the bucket-list of anyone visiting the states, let alone California.

Easily reachable from San Jose even without a car, thanks to the world-class public transport connecting the two, San Francisco can be the perfect day trip if you know what you want to do when you arrive.

Popular favourites are the Golden Gate Bridge, Mission Dolores and Lombard Street, but if you want to head off the beaten track, head over to Haight-Ashbury and wander the colourful streets covered in murals and exuding a heavy dose of flower-power.

A world-class destination when it comes to indulgence, Gilroy is a self-proclaimed foodie and retail haven, only half an hour to the south of San Jose.

The aptly named garlic capital of the world plays host to the Annual Gilroy Garlic Festival, where you can enjoy every garlic-based dish and snack imaginable, including their world-famous garlic fries and even garlic ice cream.

You’ll also find one of the country’s premium shopping malls in Gilroy, housing over 140 stores and boasting the accolade of having the largest collection of designer stores in Northern California.

7. Livermore

Perfect for wine lovers who are looking for an alternative to the popular Napa Valley, Livermore is a thriving community of wineries that comprise an up-and-coming wine industry.

Many have been producing critically acclaimed wines since the time of the San Francisco Mission.

A mere 30 minutes from San Jose in Alameda, the town has a long history of ranching and agriculture as well as the grape farming, and is a wonderful place to explore on foot.

8. Sausalito

At the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge you’ll find the enchanting beachside community known as Sausalito that has visitors falling in love with it within minutes of arriving.

The small town is a former shipbuilding hub that has transformed into a wealthy and picturesque artist’s hideaway with a wealth of hidden gems to discover.

Home to a great number of pop-up restaurants serving progressive seasonal menus, garnished with gorgeous views across the bay, Sausalito is an ideal day trip to grab a bite to eat and explore one of San Francisco’s numerous attractive suburbs.

9. Silicon Valley

An eye-opening and insightful day trip that can actually be within the city limits, depending on where you go, a day out in Silicon Valley will leave you curious and hungry for more.

Of the many technological landmarks found here, some of the most popular are the Apple Headquarters in Cupertino or the famed HP garage in Palo Alto.

Visitors can experience the pioneering force behind many of the world’s social media and online powerhouses like Google and Facebook, and marvel at the quirky and sometimes bizarre office spaces they operate from.

10. Carmel by the Sea

A great number of San Joseans regularly make the trip to this romantic coastal resort with its spectacularly sandy beach and irresistible small-town ambience.

You’ll find the gorgeous beach in the long cove curling around Carmel Bay, where secluded spots and picturesque sunsets are plentiful.

Heading further into town, you’ll quickly become accustomed to the lack of numbered street addresses and find that meandering around is the norm here, and discovering hidden gems around every corner is commonplace.

Expect to stumble across art galleries, charming artisan boutiques and some truly world-class dining options.

11. Muir Woods

One of the last remaining redwood forests in the San Francisco Bay area, the Muir Woods are only a couple of hours from San Jose and will transport you to another world.

The trip itself by car is wonderfully picturesque, taking you across the Golden Gate Bridge and the Marin Headland, but once you arrive at the Muir Woods, the scenery will take your breath away.

Monumentally large trees tower above visitors on all sides and you can hike towards the ocean or up into the mountains.

Be sure to pack plenty of water and a lunch, as shops are few and far between in the forest.

12. West Cliff Drive

A six-mile path that hugs the coast, West Cliff Drive is a favourite amongst walkers and cyclists who want to leisurely explore this beautiful stretch of rocky coastline and headlands.

Part of Monterey Bay, the route is also popular with surfers chasing the perfect Pacific breaks.

You can even find the world’s first surf museum here, commemorating one of the nation’s most celebrated sports and resulting cultures.

Appropriately located in the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse, you can learn about the surfers braving the crashing waves while enjoying excellent views of them doing just that.

13. Monterey

The perfect day trip for those looking to learn about California’s colonial past whilst enjoying spectacular coastal and mountain views, Monterey has a little something for everyone.

The gorgeous “Monterey’s 17-Mile Drive” is a scenic route featuring beaches, cliffs, headlands, and the world-famous Pebble Beach Golf Course.

Seal Rock Picnic Area is also a popular stop-off on the coast where you can see wild birds, seals and sea lions in their natural habitat.

For a dose of culture, head over to the Monterey Museum of Art, and for a foodie experience, try one of the many mouthwatering downtown eateries.

14. Berkeley

This famous university town north of San Francisco is as rich in history and culture as it is in academic knowledge.

Art lovers, foodies and shoppers all regularly take a trip here to make the most of the diverse range of activities and entertainment on offer.

A visit to the famed university itself is worthwhile, if only to see the beautiful grounds.

Downtown is a great place to try new things, whether it’s window shopping at quirky stores or browsing through the fresh produce at the absolutely enormous market, the Berkeley Bowl.

15. Pescadero

Another charmingly quaint seaside town that offers both entertainment and exceptionally beautiful natural reserves is the area known as Pescadero.

About an hour away from San Jose, it is home to sandy beaches and blustery, rocky headlands where wild birds seasonally come and nest.

Home to endless hiking trails around the coast and further inland past coastal scrub and eucalyptus groves, Pescadero is exceedingly popular with hikers.

End your day at one of the many cafes or restaurants in town while you watch the sun set over the ocean.

15 Best Day Trips from San Jose (CA):

• Half Moon Bay
• San Francisco
• Silicon Valley
• Carmel by the Sea
• West Cliff Drive

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The best day trips from Chicago for an exciting adventure

Explore small-town breweries, bakeries and artisan shops when you embark on these easy day trips.

Photograph: Shutterstock

Sometimes, you just want a little escape from the city. If a weekend getaway isn't possible but you're still looking for new scenery and an adventure, there are plenty of options for a day trip within a few hours’ drive of Chicago. Spend an afternoon soaking up the rays on beaches along Lake Michigan, go  hiking near Chicago  in a state park or sample a variety of beers and cheeses up north in Wisconsin. The attractions are endless, ranging from amusement parks and Japanese gardens to museums and historic lighthouses.  And the best part? Many of these destinations are also accessible by  Metra . So get to planning with our guide to the best day trips from Chicago.

RECOMMENDED: The most unique day trips from Chicago

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Top day trips from Chicago

1.  milwaukee, wi.

Driving time from Chicago: One and a half hours

Getting to the Cream City requires a painless drive, but if you plan to fully indulge, ditch the car and hop on the BYOB-friendly Amtrak, which will deposit you in the heart of the city in an hour and a half. Start your day with a stack of Johnny cakes and a round of mimosas at Uncle Wolfie's Breakfast Tavern . Meander around the Historic Third Ward and hop into home decor shops like The Home Market or fun specialty shops like MOD GEN . Seek refuge and treats at the Milwaukee Public Market , where you’ll find a hodgepodge of the city’s best vendors, including blends from The Spice House , seafood from St. Paul Fish Company , hand-dipped chocolate from Kehr’s Candies and vino from Thief Wine Shop & Bar . Before catching a train home, walk off the day with a trek along to Lakeshore State Park , a unique 22-acre urban oasis that juts out from the

2.  Madison, WI

Driving time from Chicago:  Two and a half hours

Located on an isthmus between two lakes, Madison is a city that’s filled with beautiful sights—in addition to all the cheese and beer you’ve heard so much about. Begin your visit with a scenic tour of the college town on two wheels. You can rent a bike from dozens of BCycle stations , allowing you to make 30-minute trips. The Capital City trail winds around Lake Monona (the smaller of the two lakes) and provides plenty of picturesque stops for an Instagram snapshot of the skyline. Now, onto that cheese and beer: To drink like a local, head for The Malt House , a “craft beer oasis” that dates back to the Civil War era and boasts taps from local brewers like New Glarus and Central Waters. Head for Capitol Square to visit Fromagination , where you’ll find artisanal Wisconsin cheeses and knowledgeable cheesemongers to help you make a decision. Take an evening to visit the Memorial Union   Terrace , a lakefront space on the University of Wisconsin campus where you can enjoy brats, beer and live music during the summer months. 

3.  New Buffalo, MI

Driving time from Chicago:  One and a half hours

A charming beach town in Harbor Country, New Buffalo is popular during the warmest months. Escape the crowded Chicago lakefront and head for the sandy shores of the Mitten State, where the water’s warmer and clearer. Soak up some rays and then stroll down Whittaker Street to peruse cute shops and art galleries. Book a spa treatment at The Harbor Grand Hotel for a re-energizing experience; adventurers can rent a kayak or paddleboard from Third Coast Paddling and go exploring on the Galien River. When you need to refuel, grab a seat on The Stray Dog Bar & Grill’s bustling patio or sink your teeth into a big, juicy burger from Redamak’s . But make sure to save room for unique ice cream flavors, like Mackinac Island Fudge and Jacked Up Tennessee Toffee, at Oink’s Dutch Treat .

4.  South Bend, IN

Driving time from Chicago: One hour and 45 minutes

There’s more to South Bend than Fighting Irish football. Check out the city’s cultured side with an afternoon visit to the History Museum , a stately Victorian mansion that was once home to the family of local industrialist and inventor James Oliver. From there, browse the local bounty at the South Bend Farmers' Market , where you can shop everything from artisan breads and doughnuts to farm-fresh fruits and veggies. When hunger strikes, head to Café Navarre , an upscale dining spot housed in a repurposed '20s-era bank. 

5.  St. Joseph, MI

Golden, sandy beaches and a picturesque shoreline attract visitors to St. Joseph and its twin city Benton Harbor. You can spend an entire day out on the water with a rental from Blue Water Boat Rentals , or walk over to the St. Joseph Lighthouses — guided tours are available. If you’re hungry, you won’t have to wander far for good grub, as Silver Beach Pizza —located inside a century-old train depot—slings dependable tavern-style pies. Oenophiles, hit up a variety of vineyards and tasting rooms on the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail for some fine Midwestern pours.

6.  Lake Geneva, WI

Lake Geneva has long been an accessible weekend destination for wealthy suburban Chicago families. But no matter your budget, a quick retreat to this idyllic vacation town is sure to be a blast. The town rests on Geneva Lake, an 8-square-mile body of water made for summertime fun. First things first: Get out on the water. Rent a kayak or paddleboard from Clear Water Outdoor , or take a wake surfing private lesson at Gage Marine . If you can’t get your sea legs, trek a portion of Lake Geneva’s 21-mile circumference on the Geneva Lake Shore Path and gawk at the century-old mansions that rest on the shore. When you’re hungry, Egg Harbor Café and Simple Cafe , both in the town center, offer delicious, no-fuss diner eats. If you’re feeling spendy, Baker House , a 19-century mansion-turned-hotel, offers a popular Champagne brunch with waterfront views.

7.  Harbor Country, MI

Just across the Indiana border, Michigan’s lakeside “Harbor Country” is only an hour and a half drive from downtown Chicago. Start at the north end, in Sawyer, where you can visit the original taproom of Greenbush Brewing Co. Pair a pour of Star Chicken Shotgun IPA with some barbecue or Cajun fare. Up next, take the Red Arrow Highway down the lakeshore for great shopping, like hunting through the Harbert Antique Mall . Head back inland to the artsy community of Three Oaks to finish your day at Journeyman Distillery . A $15 tour and tasting nets you samples of 12 different spirits made in the converted corset factory. Plan to sit down for a meal at the distillery’s Staymaker restaurant afterward; you’ll need some food before getting back on the road to Chicago.

8.  Fennville, MI

Driving time from Chicago: Two hours and 20 minutes

Many Chicagoans wait until fall to venture up to western Michigan’s fruit belt. But there’s a compelling argument to be made for hitting the area a couple of months earlier, when the countryside is tranquil and stone fruits like peaches and cherries are ripe for picking. The petite town of Fennville is a great base for tasting the region’s sweet bounty in a host of iterations. Start off with a slice or two of the good stuff at local favorite Crane’s Pie Pantry , a bakery, restaurant and winery housed in a 150-year-old barn. From here, a five-minute drive will deliver you to Virtue Cider , founded by former Goose Island brewmaster Greg Hall. Reserve a spot for a guided trail tour that includes a glass of cider. Finally, make your way to Salt of the Earth for wood-fired pizza and seasonal dishes made from scratch with local and sustainable ingredients.

9.  Gurnee, IL

Driving time from Chicago: One hour

Located right off I-94, the village of Gurnee is a shopping and entertaining hub that draws 23 million visitors each year—including plenty of nearby Chicagoans. Start your day with a sweet treat at Gurnee Donuts , where you can grab ube donuts on weekends . Spend some time digesting while you stroll around Gurnee Mills , which hosts more than 160 stores selling everything from sporting goods to home decor. Thrill seekers won’t want to miss Six Flags Great America , where you’ll find high-speed roller coasters and intense drop rides. On a hot day, you’ll want to plunge down the water slides and splash around the wave pool at Hurricane Harbor. If you can resist indulging in funnel cakes or turkey legs at the park, save your appetite for Primo Italian American Cuisine , where the dinner menu features black truffle ravioli and a tomahawk ribeye. Those visiting on a Friday can end the night with live music in The Parlor, Primo’s speakeasy-style lounge.

10.  Grand Rapids, MI

Driving time from Chicago: Three hours

Summer and fall are peak seasons to visit Grand Rapids, but you’d do best to plan ahead and book your visit during ArtPrize , an international art competition in September and October when art is displayed in museums, bars, public parks and hotels. Regardless of when you go, Grand Rapids has you covered on the beer front with dozens of breweries—so be sure to bring a designated driver. First stop: Brewery Vivant for poutine and a German- or Belgian-style beer. A quick 10-minute drive will put you in the middle of downtown, where you should find parking and hoof it a while. Stop at Madcap Coffee for a post-beer pick me up before heading to City Built Brewing for creole bites and a range of beers for every palate. Finally, grab your car and head to Butcher's Union for a dinner complete with prime cuts of beef and pours of whiskey.

11.  Holland, MI

Driving time from Chicago: Two and a half hours

Once a stronghold of Calvinist separatists who arrived here from the Netherlands in the mid-19th century, the town of Holland continues to celebrate its Dutch heritage. To go Dutch for the day, start off with a breakfast of flaky, almond paste-filled bankets and house-roasted coffee at deBoer Bakkerij . Afterward, head across town to Veldheer Tulip Gardens , where five million of the eponymous flowers explode into bloom each spring. When hunger hits, make your way downtown for lunch and a beer at New Holland Brewing , one of the Midwest’s best-loved brewpubs. (Not sure what to sip on? Look for limited-release variations on brewery fave Dragon’s Milk, a bourbon barrel-aged stout, enriched with ingredients like cocoa nibs and peanut butter.) Wrap up your trip with a leisurely stroll around Windmill Island Gardens , a picturesque park centered around a 250-year-old Dutch windmill purchased by Holland residents in the 1960s.

12.  Galena, IL

While this city on the Mississippi River might be best known for its resorts, you don’t need to stay the night to enjoy its mix of historical sites and outdoor activities. Start your day with brunch at Otto’s Place  and  enjoy breakfast burritos with a Bloody Mary or mimosa. Head across the Galena River to Nuts Outdoors and rent an electric bike to ride along the trails and into town. Take a tour of the city’s proudest attraction, the Ulysses S. Grant Home , which was gifted to the 18th president when he returned from fighting in the Civil War. If you want to learn more, you can visit the Galena & U.S. Grant Museum , which also features an offsite working blacksmith shop. That history is also on display at Galena Brewing Company , where you can sip Uly’s Dark Chocolate Oatmeal Stout while listening to live music and feasting on a bison burger or a giant pretzel with beer cheese and house mustard.

13.  New Glarus, WI

Chances are you’ve already heard of New Glarus thanks to the town’s eponymous brewery —which offers self-guided tours Monday through Friday and a lovely beer garden—but there are plenty of reasons to visit “America’s Little Switzerland” other than beer. This charming, walkable town features a variety of tempting shops, hearty restaurants and themed events celebrating the town’s Swiss history and culture like the Heidi Folk Play Festival in June. Be sure to grab a nut horn at the New Glarus Bakery , and get your fondue fix at the Chalet Landhaus restaurant. If you visit between May and October, don’t miss the seasonally-open Swissland mini golf course, featuring Alpine-themed obstacles and friendly goats.

14.  Fair Oaks, IN

Driving time from Chicago : One hour and 15 minutes

Fair Oaks, Indiana is more than just an exit on the long stretch of Indiana’s notoriously uneventful I-65. Under a beaconing silo,  Fair Oaks Farms offers a chance for city dwellers to learn, explore and taste the heartland’s agricultural roots. Eat lunch or dinner at farm-to-table spot  Farmhouse Restaurant or pack your own picnic and explore the grounds. While most educational attractions and activities like storytime and learning how to milk a cow are family friendly , you don’t have to be a kid to get excited about spotting cows, pigs, chickens and other livestock, and all ages will enjoy homemade ice cream and grilled cheese from the Cowfe . Whether you visit this compound on a day trip or weekend getaway—or even as a pitstop for gas and award-winning artisanal cheese on a weekend getaway , check for seasonal offerings such as you-pick apples and workshops like candle making.

Exploring the farm grounds are free and general admission for the Dairy, Pig and Crop adventures are $25 for access to all three.

15.  Rockford, IL

Driving time from Chicago: Two hours

Situated less than 100 miles northwest of Chicago, Rockford is a surprisingly plentiful road trip destination for families. If the kids are in tow, start the day with a visit to the Discovery Center Museum , which boasts more than 300 hands-on exhibits focused on everything from light and art to color and electricity. For a dose of fresh air and nature, wander through the Anderson Japanese Gardens , a breathtaking 12-acre oasis that's filled with winding pathways, koi-filled ponds, and colorful plants. Everyone in the car will find something to love at Prairie Street Brewing Company , where bar food is elevated through dishes like Baja-style shrimp tacos, Cajun mac ‘n cheese and poke bowls. Pick up a few cans of Screw City Light—with notes of fresh-baked bread—to take home and extend your day trip.

16.  Oglesby, IL

It may not be the mighty Colorado, but Oglesby’s Vermillion River offers the best rafting you’re liable to find within a quick jaunt from Chicago. A 9.5-mile run with Vermillion River Rafting will shoot you over 14 rapids, most of them class I and II. After you’ve handed over your paddle, hop in the car and head up the road to Starved Rock Lodge , where you can catch your breath and lunch on casual fare like burgers or a strawberry pecan salad at the Back Door Lounge. When you feel sufficiently refreshed, hit the hiking trails at adjacent Starved Rock State Park to spot dramatic waterfalls and explore cool glacial canyons. Unwind from your nature adventures by grabbing a nostalgic treat at The Rootbeer Stand or check out "farm to foam" at The Lone Buffalo by Tangled Roots Brewing Company in nearby Ottawa. 

17.  Kenosha, WI

Driving time from Chicago: One hour and 15 minutes

About an hour north of Chicago sits this Wisconsin town filled with a plethora of things to do. Within a mile radius of the downtown area are five museums—you can gaze at dinosaur fossils and learn about the link between the prehistoric reptiles and birds at the Dinosaur Discovery Museum , or explore how the Civil War affected people on the western front at the Civil War Museum . During spring to fall, visit the Southport Lighthouse and climb 72 steps to the top for unparalleled views of Kenosha and, on a clear day, the Chicago skyline. If it’s summertime, you must check out the Bristol Renaissance Faire , where you’ll find a recreated 16th century port city populated with fairgoers dressed as knights, maidens and much more. After you’ve worked up an appetite, head over to Frank’s Diner , an almost century-old restaurant set inside an old railway car. And don’t forget to grab some cheeses and New Glarus beers at the famed Mars Cheese Castle on the way home.

18.  Cedarburg, WI

Located just 20 miles north of Milwaukee, Cedarburg is an ideal place to wind down and take things slow. The charming small town is brimming with old-world architecture, friendly Midwesterners and culture galore. If you can, plan your trip around one of the town’s seasonal events, with options including the Wine & Harvest Festival and Oktoberfest —all of which offer ample opportunities to meet local vendors and sample their wares. When you’re not rubbing elbows with the close-knit community at a street fest, make time to walk around the Cedarburg Art Museum , which hosts exhibitions from Wisconsin artists inside a former home that was designed in 1898. If wine bars are more your scene, head to Cedar Creek Winery , where you can sip your way through a $12 wine fight or enjoy a seasonal wine and cheese tasting for $25. On your way out of town, make one last stop at Amy’s Candy Kitchen to grab a hand-crafted caramel apple for the road.

19.  Kankakee County, IL

The Kankakee River has been a treasured area for centuries, occupied by the Illini and Miami tribes in the 17th century. Kankakee River State Park surrounds the river for about 11 miles, totaling to 4,000 acres of protected land. It’s a popular spot for fishing, canoeing, hiking and bicycling. Frank Lloyd Wright fans can visit the B. Harley Bradley House , built in 1900 and billed as the architect’s first Prairie Style home. Bring the kids to Perry Farm Park , which features a children’s museum, nature trails, playground and picnic areas.

20.  Oak Park, IL

Drive time from Chicago:  30 minutes

You can't call yourself a Frank Lloyd Wright fanatic until you've spent the day in Oak Park, where you'll find the famed architect's home and studio as well as a smattering of other Prairie-style abodes he designed. If it's your first time, book a tour through the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust . Now that you've worked up an appetite, grab brunch or dinner at Maya del Sol , where margaritas flow like water and the ceviche is tops. Have time for one last stop? Grab a seat at Kinslahger Brewing Company , a small but mighty taproom pouring lagered brews.

21.  Zion, IL

Zion’s Illinois Beach State Park is one of the  best places for camping outside of Chicago . Outside the 4,160-acre nature haven along the Wisconsin-Illinois border, you’ll find good brews—both coffee and alcohol—and pieces of unique history. Sip coffee from a mug in the quirky collection of mismatched ware at the cozy It’s All Good Coffee in downtown Zion, and a half mile north, tour Shiloh House , a historic 1901-era mansion housing the Zion Historical Society and former residence of Zion’s founder, Dr. John Alexander Dowie. There, learn more about  Dr. Dowie, a Scottish-Australian minister who founded Zion as a planned religious utopia and committed large-scale fraud. 

Head just north of Zion to Winthrop Harbor’s North Point Marina, one of the largest along the Great Lakes. Weather permitting, rent a  kayak or stand-up paddle or stay on land for live music, good views, and craft beers at Harbor Brewing . If you want bragging rights, stand with one foot on either side of the state border at North Point Beach .

22.  Monroe, WI

If your cheese preferences embrace the pungent, you’ll find yourself in good company in charming Monroe, Wisconsin, gateway to a region teeming with cheesemakers specializing in varieties like Swiss and nostril-tingling Limburger. For some context, begin your day at the National Historic Cheesemaking Center , where you’ll get a crash course in south central Wisconsin’s cheesy history. Next, head to the Alp and Dell cheese store to browse more than 100 varieties of cheese, mostly from local producers, and all the wine, beer and sausage you’d want to pair them with. When you’re ready for lunch, make your way to the unapologetically old-school Baumgartner’s Cheese Store & Tavern on Monroe’s pleasant courthouse square and order the infamous specialty: a slab of Limburger on rye crowned with mustard and sliced red onions. For a chaser, stroll around the block to Minhas brewery.

23.  Lemont, IL

The Village of Lemont developed as part of the construction of the canal linking the Illinois River and Lake Michigan, which also led to the discovery and development of the limestone quarries used to supply materials for iconic Illinois buildings like the Chicago Water Tower. Today, you can hop on the Metra and visit the Heritage Quarries Recreation Area , where you can walk, bike or fish along the I&M Canal (just be sure to look out for the many water birds drawn to the area). If you’re hoping for a bit more excitement, visit The Forge: Lemont Quarries . The adventure park features laser tag, a zipline and ropes courses for all ages and skill levels. Afterwards, head to the village’s historic downtown area to visit Pollyanna Brewing Company and try The Full Lemonty, their signature golden ale. You can also find the brewery’s beer on tap at Wooden Paddle , where you can watch your wood-fired pizza and other small plates being prepared before they hit your table.

24.  Long Grove, IL

Driving time from Chicago: 45 minutes

Located 35 miles northwest of Chicago, Long Grove was founded in the 1800s by German farmers, and many of the town’s original homes and buildings are still standing. Try to visit Long Grove during one of its many delicious festivals such as Apple Fest or Strawberry Fest , when local chefs and other vendors flock to the historic downtown area to offer numerous versions of the spotlighted food. Stop by Buffalo Creek Brewing and have a beer in their Bavarian-style taproom or in the Biergarten, which hosts live music and food trucks during the summer. Before you hit the road, swing by Long Grove Confectionery to pick up some peanut brittle or their signature Giant Myrtle, made with roasted pecans or cashews topped with caramel and milk or dark chocolate.

25.  Evanston, IL

Driving time from Chicago: 40 minutes

If you're short on time but craving a day away from the city, hop on the Purple Line and head to Evanston. The sweet college town is located just a few miles north of Chicago, which means you can explore the day away and still be home for dinner. Start the morning at the otherworldly Baha'i House of Worship , an architectural gem located a few miles north in Wilmette. Wander the pristine grounds before stepping inside the functioning temple, one of the oldest of its kind in the world. Up next: Fill up on colorful macarons, cakes and doughnuts at Bennison's Bakery before checking out the outdoor exhibition at the Block Museum of Art and taking a free art walk to see the 16 sculptures placed in public spaces on Northwestern University’s campus. Don't get back on the train without grabbing a brew from Temperance Beer Co. If you have the time, take a $10 brewery tour that includes samples and a souvenir pint glass. 

26.  Michigan City, IN

If you’re car-less, this small city is a perfect option for a day trip from Chicago. Hop on the Amtrak at Union Station and you’ll be in Michigan City in just over an hour. Or, take the South Shore Line and you can hop off right at the Indiana Dunes National Park , 15 miles of gorgeous sand dunes on the southern shore of Lake Michigan. Michigan City proper, too, is filled with great things to do. Visit Washington Park where you can picnic on the beach or check out the lions, wolves and other animals from around the world at the Washington Park Zoo . Hungry? Walk over to Shoreline Brewery , a gem of a microbrewery with a rotating selection of beers on tap and tasty pub grub. You can also sample local flavors at Fiddlehead , which serves high-quality comfort food including fried lake perch and grass-fed beef burgers.

27.  Skokie, IL

Driving time from Chicago : 30 minutes 

Head 16 miles north by car or CTA for art, history, and nature in downtown Skokie. The village is lined with locally-owned shops and restaurants, and is home to the Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center . Start your day with an everything bagel with lox from Kaufman’s Bagel & Delicatessen and use the free app Otocast for a self-guided route of the area’s murals and sculptures. Mid-tour, grab coffee and a halal savory empanada or SALAMAT! Filipino cookie at Complimentary Coffee . If that wasn’t enough art, head east to the north channel of the Chicago River for the North Shore Sculpture Park , a two-mile walkway with over 60 pieces of public art. Download a self-guided tour or plan to make it to one of free guided tours Saturdays and Sundays, May through October.

28.  Fairbury, IL

Observant Chicago foodies may have noticed a couple of names popping up over and over again in the menu sourcing notes that have become de rigueur in these locavore-obsessed times: Kilgus Farmstead (for dairy) and Slagel Family Farm (for a range of meats). Turns out, our favorite chefs’ favorite suppliers sit just a three-mile hop from each other in the central Illinois town of Fairbury. On an hour-long tour of Kilgus , you’ll get acquainted with the farm’s herd of sweet, doe-eyed Jersey cows, learn the ins and outs of milking, and sample freshly spun soft-serve. Bring a cooler and hit the on-site store for Kilgus dairy and meat as well as goods like eggs and honey from nearby producers. Slagel has teamed up with chefs from notable Chicago restaurants to put on a program of farm dinners throughout the summer and fall. After an interactive tour and a butchering demo, you’ll retire to a picturesque barn for the main event, a family-style, BYOB meal prepared by the guest chef.

29.  Spring Green, WI

Driving time from Chicago: Three and a half hours

Despite boasting a population just shy of 1,700 people, this town west of Madison has a lot going on. Most visitors are here to visit one of two sprawling complexes: Taliesin , the estate and studio of legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright, or the infinitely weirder House on the Rock , the brainchild of artist Alex Jordan where curious travelers can explore rooms on rooms of infinity mirrors, dollhouses, nostalgic cars, circus ephemera and the world’s largest indoor carousel. When you’ve had your fill of architecture or funky assorted collections, get a taste of traditional Wisconsin hospitality at Arthur’s Supper Club . Theater buffs can take in a show at the American Players Theatre .

30.  Aurora, IL

Driving time from Chicago : 50 minutes 

Aurora made headlines when Wallethub named the small city the happiest place to live in Illinois. Once you make a visit, it’s easy to see why. Easily accessible by Metra, this western Chicago suburb features a walkable downtown with music, festivals, street fairs and ample green space to get your nature fix. Grab your running shoes or bike—or  kayak  if floating is your preferred method of sightseeing—and hit the Fox River Valley Trail, an over 40-mile paved path. Finish the afternoon with coffee or craft beers at Two Brothers Roundhouse , a 1850s-era limestone building listed on the National Register of Historic Places, before heading back downtown for a Broadway show at the Paramount Theater .

31.  Joliet, IL

If there’s a place that embraces its unique and often complicated past, it’s Joliet. History is intertwined in nearly every aspect of this canal and quarry city, from the limestone facades of the castle-like Bishop Hill Winery to its recreational spots, like the  Joliet Iron Works Historic Site , once the second largest steel mill in the United States and now converted into an outdoor park. Names of many local businesses, like Prison City Vintage , even reference the past. Contextualize the city with a visit to the Joliet Area Historical Museum , a collection of over 30,000 artifacts, including memorabilia from the first Dairy Queen in the U.S. and Route 66. After, roam the 1858-constructed Old Joliet Prison , a frequent filming location and must-see for TV and movie buffs. Finish off with classic diner food at the in-theme Joliet Route 66 Diner .

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10 scenic getaways across the US that are within a 1- to 4-hour drive from major cities — and the best hotel to book for each

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• As Americans return to travel, many will choose to avoid the airport in favor of road trips close to home. 
• For inspiration, we compiled 10 destinations with top hotels for each, located within a one-to-four-hour drive of major US cities.
• Locations feature gorgeous scenery, plenty of personal space, and new policies to promote cleanliness.
• All hotels are highly rated with desirable outdoor attractions and range from $159 to $435 per night to start.
• Read more:  Is travel safe? We interviewed experts on risks associated with flying, booking hotels or Airbnbs, renting cars, and more, plus ideas on safe vacations during COVID-19 .

Exotic vacations to far-flung destinations may be on your bucket list but chances are, in the wake of the novel coronavirus, a safari to Namibia will be placed on the back burner for some time.  

But that doesn't mean you can't experience a change of scenery. Many hassle-free getaways are close to home and located within easy drives of major US cities. And fear not, if you don't have a car, we spoke to several experts to determine if rental cars are safe to drive (hint: they largely are). And once you're ready to hit the road, here's how experts say you should pack and prepare for a safe, socially distant road trip .

Indeed, domestic options that embrace the great outdoors make it easier to avoid crowds and follow social distancing, and, travel agents are also seeing an uptick in regional travel planning .

If you're wondering if it's safe to travel and stay in hotels , it's important to understand the risks. Without a vaccine, there is no firm guarantee on safety, and it's crucial to follow guidelines from organizations such as the CDC and WHO, and wear a mask, wash your hands, and maintain social distancing. Additionally, check current state travel restrictions before booking, stay up to date on new policies from major hotels , and consider your own level of risk and whether you're traveling from or to a hotspot, so as not to increase the rate of infection.

For those interested in getting out of town, we rounded up places that trade densely populated city centers for wide-open spaces, fresh air, and gorgeous scenery to offer an abundance of personal space that will make it easy to maintain social distancing. These 10 driveable destinations are all located within a one-to-four-hour drive from cities across the country such as New York, LA, Denver, Houston, and more.

Similarly, we selected hotels that are highly-rated on trusted traveler sites such as Trip Advisor and Booking.com, are located in secluded areas and visually stunning areas, boast desirable outdoor amenities, and range in price from $159 to $435 per night (plus one luxe, all-inclusive option), to meet a wide variety and budgets and tastes. We also favored smaller properties that encourage social distancing, whenever possible. In more remote areas, expect to stay in smaller inns. What they lack in modern design, they make up for in character and quiet charm. Larger properties or resorts all feature stringent COVID policies to reduce risks associated with their larger size.

From a coastal escape in Big Sur to Aspen's rugged mountains to exploring Virginia's lush wine country, these places and hotels come with easy access to hiking and biking, swimming, and private balconies.

We also advise consulting cancellation policies, as the situation around the novel coronavirus changes, and to use your best judgment when it comes to effective social distancing to more effectively ensure safety.

These are the best getaways close to big cities, sorted by price from low to high.

Best getaway near chicago: lake geneva, wisconsin, one hour and forty minutes by car.

Book Geneva Inn starting at $159 per night

Chicago sits on the shores of Lake Michigan, but when residents seek a nostalgic lake resort, they cross the state border into neighboring Wisconsin, only 100 minutes away. It's home to spring-fed Lake Geneva, where replicas of old-fashioned paddle-wheel steamers cruise the lake. A 20-plus-mile public footpath encircles the crystal-clear water, offering pedestrian's impressive views of the lake and the grand mansions surrounding it. The yesteryear spirit is as all-American as a slice of cherry pie. 

The Geneva Inn enjoys a privileged lakefront position, is family-owned and operated, and offers personalized service, and friendly staff. Guest rooms and suites have classic cozy furnishings like four-poster beds, plus oversized soaking tubs and private balconies. 

The hotel offers on-site dining, though it's an easy one-mile stroll to downtown, where you'll find a wide variety of dining and shopping options.  

Trip Advisor Ranking: 4 out of 16 hotels in Lake Geneva

Booking.com Rating: 9.0 out of 10

Pros: This family-run hotel's relaxed charms are a throwback to a gentler era.  

Cons: The on-site restaurant's menu is nothing special.  

COVID status and policies:  This hotel is currently open and accepting reservations with new procedures that include:

• Increased cleaning and sanitation measures have been put in place, frequently and thoroughly throughout the day. Hand sanitizer, gloves, and masks are readily available for anyone that is in need.
• Guests are encouraged to continue social distancing and not congregate in common areas.
• The restaurant is only open for carry-out/delivery and room service. Limited outdoor dining will also be available.

Best Getaway near Denver: Aspen, three hours by car

Book Aspen Meadows starting at $174 per night

Denver offers urban gratification, but no visit to Colorado is complete without experiencing the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Aspen is a posh ski resort town located a three-hour drive from Denver. Lovers of the great outdoors won't want to miss hiking Maroon Bells, the most photographed mountains in North America. The town has enough galleries to keep art enthusiasts satisfied, plus the Aspen Art Museum presents thought-provoking international exhibits on a rotating basis.

Aspen Meadows, a Dolce Resort, is both a hotel and home to the Aspen Institute, a prestigious think-tank that attracts global leaders and the world's brightest minds. Hotel guests and institute participants randomly mix and mingle, imparting a cerebral vibe and an opportunity for casual intellectual exchange. There are 98 spacious rooms and suites with understated, yet stylish furnishings. Floor-to-ceiling windows exploit the vistas, immersing you in greenery. 

There are plenty of recreational offerings including a state-of-the-art health club and opportunities to play tennis, cycle, and hike while immersed in a haven of sagebrush and Aspen trees. You're likely to not see another soul as you hike the little-utilized trails that are accessed on-site. In winter, borrow complimentary snowshoes and tour the hotel's eye-catching collection of outdoor sculptures. The swimming pool and hot tub are heated for year-round use and have stellar views. 

Trip Advisor Ranking: 8 out of 34 hotels in Aspen

Booking.com Rating: 8.9 out of 10

Pros: Situated in a gorgeous mountain setting and home to a prestigious think-tank, a stay nurtures both the mind and body. 

Cons: The hotel is situated outside of downtown Aspen, so you'll need to drive or ride the shuttle into town. There is also a resort fee.

COVID status and policies:  This hotel is currently open and accepting reservations and announced new procedures that include:

• No more than 50% capacity for both guest rooms and restaurants.
• All rooms are guaranteed to be empty for a minimum of 24 hours prior to each new guest's arrival.
• Room assignments will be staggered in order to ensure common entryways are not shared.
• Some amenities have been removed from the rooms and are available upon request. These include bath amenities, hairdryers, kitchenware, iron/ironing boards, robes, and stationary. Newspapers will not be available until further notice but local news is available online.
• Daily housekeeping service will not be available during guest stays.
• Restaurants will offer to-go service only for breakfast and lunch.
• Airport and town shuttle services will be available upon request and require advance notice.
• Tennis is available but advanced reservations are required for Tennis Pro services.
• Wearing a face mask in all public areas
• Sneezing and coughing into one's elbow
• Refraining from shaking hands or engaging in any unnecessary physical contact with other guests or team members; and
• Washing hands often with soap and warm water and using hand sanitizer when soap and water are unavailable.
• Maintaining at least six feet of social distancing from other guests while on property, including restaurants and all other public areas.
• Refraining from congregating in any public areas of the hotel. Guests will be asked to disperse if necessary.
• Limiting occupancy in the two property elevators to two individuals or one known group at a time.

Best getaway near Boston: Boothbay Harbor, Maine, three hours by car

Book Spruce Point Inn Resort & Spa starting at $189 per night

When Bostonians need a break, they flock to the Maine coastline. The state's Mid Coast region is defined by stunning seascapes, picturesque lighthouses, and quiet coves. Coastal Boothbay Harbor is an easy three-hour drive from Boston with a slower way of life that moves at a pace set by wind, weather, and tides, just as it has for centuries. 

Spruce Point Inn Resort & Spa is right on the water, the type of place where guests gather around the fire for a nightly snack of s'mores after a round of croquet or a dip one of the two swimming pools. Walks in the pine-scented woods, kayaking, and shuffleboard are favored activities, and there's plenty of space to spend solitary time in nature .  

The resort is set on 56-acres, with a mix of seaside cottages, historic inn rooms, townhouses, and modern lodge rooms. All guest accommodations are spacious with modern amenities such as flat-screen televisions, iPod docking stations, and the Internet that works like a charm. Dining options are varied, but this is Maine, so lobster shines.

Trip Advisor Ranking: 7 out of 12 hotels in Boothbay Harbor

Pros: Staying here means an authentic seaside Maine vacation, right down to roasting marshmallows and playing pickleball. 

Cons: There are typically many families with kids, so it's not the best spot for a romantic holiday. This hotel is seasonal and will be closed from November through May.

• Guests from any hotspot state may be required to certify that they have received a negative COVID-19 test within 72-hours of their arrival date. To certify, guests will be asked to sign a Certification of Compliance form upon arrival at the property.
• Programming will including take-out, picnic-style, safe dine-in options, and al fresco dining on the deck. Yoga will be held outside.
• Spa services, the fitness center, hot tubs and the debut of the new restaurant, Whiteclover, have been temporarily deferred. The oceanfront pool is in service.
• The hotel has adopted rigorous cleaning and hygiene measures developed in consultation with state, CDC, and global public health authorities. Antibacterial hand-sanitization stations are offered around the resort, and face coverings are encouraged in common areas.
• Safe physical distancing practices are suggested in all public areas with reduced capacities across outlets.
• Modifying housekeeping services to meet or exceed all Maine CDC recommendations.
• Increasing the frequency and depth of cleaning all public areas, including the use of hospital-grade disinfectants.

Best Getaway near Miami: Duck Key, two hours and fifteen minutes by car

Book Hawks Cay Resort starting at $191 per night

When Miami residents crave a laidback island road trip , the Florida Keys are an easy getaway. This chain of islands just south of Miami is a paradise of blue waters, seemingly endless sky, and tall palm trees. The Keys are divided into five regions: Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Big Pine and the Lower Keys, and Key West. Duck Key is a secluded and exceptionally beautiful part of Marathon Key, home to Hawks Cay Resort. 

Hawks Cay's main hotel has 177 newly updated guestrooms, decorated with a soft color palette and natural accents. There are eight room categories, offering a variety of configurations, and many rooms have balconies with water views. For added space, reserve a two- or three-bedroom villa with oversized decks, water views, and full kitchens. 

The full-service marina makes it easy to fish, stand-up paddleboard, kayak, or take a sunset sail. There are five swimming pools and a saltwater lagoon for protected swimming.

Trip Advisor Ranking: 1 out of 2 hotels in Duck Key

Booking.com Rating: 8.2 out of 10

Pros: Hawks Cay feels like the Caribbean but you won't need your passport.

Cons: The hotel can be crowded in high season, especially during holidays. 

• All guests and staff members must limit the potential of physical contact as much as possible. Additionally, the front desk, restaurants, pool, and public areas require social distancing Visual guides are present for proper spacing.
• Facial coverings must be worn in public indoor spaces and outdoor covered areas unless consuming food or beverages. 
• Proper and frequent hand washing is required to help combat the spread of germs and viruses. Hand sanitation stations are available throughout.
• Each guest room is checked daily by the housekeeping or front desk team to ensure guest safety.
• Hawks Cay staff members undergo daily temperature screening and wear masks. Each staff member displays a sticker on their name tag to indicate they have been cleared to work and serve guests.
• Increased frequency of cleaning and disinfecting all public spaces with a focus on counters, elevators, door handles, public bathrooms, and wristbands provided to guests.
• The housekeeping team is receiving ongoing training to meet new cleaning and hygiene protocols. All guestrooms are cleaned, sanitized, and sealed prior to guest arrival. Hotel staff will not re-enter any guestroom once a guest has checked-in unless a special request, such as for fresh towels.
• Venues such as dining, pools, valet parking, and spa services may be altered or suspended.

Best getaway near Los Angeles: Joshua Tree, two hours and 30 minutes by car

Book Pioneertown Motel starting at $195 per night

Joshua Tree National Park lies 140 miles east of sprawling Los Angeles. It's a desert oasis with captivating light, intriguing giant boulders, wildflowers, and hardy plants, including the wild-armed namesake Joshua Tree. When Angelenos need a retreat from the traffic-clogged freeways, Joshua Tree's otherworldly geology, world-class rock climbing, and the starry night sky are only two and one-half hours from downtown's smog, or about 45 minutes from Palm Springs . 

Situated in the village of Pioneertown, Pioneertown Motel embraces simplicity and is located very close to the park entrance. Originally built as a hotel for film crews shooting Westerns in the high desert, the 19 guest rooms and cottages are named after movie stars, a nod to its Hollywood legacy. Each is decorated with locally-designed furniture, wood-fired stoves, and cactus plants. The pure desert air and Zen atmosphere exude a sense of wellness, while the small number of guests assures privacy.

There's a picnic area with outdoor furniture, and the former movie sets of Pioneertown are now home to art studios and one-off shops, including a vintage saddle maker. 

Trip Advisor Rating: 4 out of 5 stars (no ranking currently)

Booking.com Rating: 9.2 out of 10

Pros: The untamed desert vibe is authentic, complete with surreal sunsets and respected live music venue Pappy and Harriet's is only minutes away. Much more personality than chain motels that are the major alternatives in the area.

Cons: No televisions on-site, though Wi-Fi works well. 

• In addition to the recommended additional sanitization and safety recommendations from the CDC, the hotel installed a plexiglass screen to the welcome desk and implemented key sanitization on arrival.
• Check-in will be done with limited contact including room key sanitization.
• A touchpad will be used for all transactions and hand sanitizer is abundantly available.
• All employees wear masks and comply with temperature checks on arrival.
• The restaurant Pappy and Harriet's is open for dine-in and takeout and generously-spaced outdoor seating is available.
• Frequently touched surfaces are sanitized throughout the day.

Best getaway near Houston: Hill Country, four hours by car

Book Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa starting at $239 per night

When Houston residents need to press pause, they drive four hours to Texas Hill Country. It's home to limestone hills, hidden caverns, a sun-kissed valley, and riverside trails. In springtime, a carpet of bluebonnets paints the landscape purple. Dozens of wineries have made the area popular with oenophiles.  

Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa is a wilderness escape along the banks of the Colorado River in Cedar Creek. It's a sprawling 405-acre resort with 491 rooms and suites. The entry-level room is 440-square-feet, so there's plenty of room to spread out. Many rooms have private patios or balconies. Touches of limestone and wood bring natural elements indoors and furnishings have a subtle Western undertone. 

Guests share the grounds with an abundance of songbirds, hiking and biking trails, a pool with a lazy river, an 18-hole golf course, and horseback riding. The spa has 18 treatment rooms and features homegrown music throughout, in a nod to the state's rich music history.  

Trip Advisor Ranking: 4.5 out of 5 (not ranked currently)

Booking.com Rating: 8.7 out of 10

Pros: The inn's rambling outdoor spaces and many recreational options are an upscale Texas experience. 

Cons: The lazy river attracts boisterous children and the resort's size may feel impersonal, and large in an era of social distancing.

COVID status and policies:  This hotel is currently open and accepting reservations and will follow new procedures from Hyatt as part of their 'Global Care & Cleanliness Commitment,' a global bio-risk advisory council accreditation at all of their hotels globally. The first hospitality brand to commit to the GBAC STARTM accreditation will include the following measures:

• Detailed training at 900+ Hyatt hotels with internal and third-party audits.
• A working group of trusted medical experts and leading industry professionals from organizations like Georgetown University Medical Center, American Airlines, Ecolab, the Global Wellness Institute, and hygiene managers appointed at every Hyatt hotel by September 2020.
• Limited service available - food service, bar service, fitness center, pool.

Best getaway near San Francisco: Big Sur, two hours and thirty minutes by car

Book Big Sur Lodge starting at $249 per night

Big Sur's 70 miles of coastline along narrow Highway 1 is one of America's most unforgettable drives, complete with rugged cliffs, towering rocks, and redwoods. Over the years, the dramatic scenery has aroused the affection of respected writers and artists, from Henry Miller to Ansel Adams. All this beauty is a two hour and thirty-minute car ride from the Bay Area. 

Big Sur Lodge is located inside Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, putting miles of hiking trails at your doorstep. It's a harmonious retreat designed to subtly blend in with the redwood forest and Pacific coastline. The 62 cottage-style guestrooms are rustic and roomy with amenities including private decks, wood-burning fireplaces, and kitchenettes. 

The on-site restaurant overlooks a creek and serves simple, tasty fare at a reasonable price. The outdoor swimming pool, circled by towering redwoods, is open seasonally. 

Trip Advisor Ranking: 1 out of 8 specialty lodging in Big Sur

Booking.com Rating: 8.1 out of 10 

Pros: Spacious rooms and an unbeatable position within the boundaries of a state park make Big Sur Lodge very popular with families. 

Cons: Wi-Fi is often unavailable.  

• All lodging, dining, and retail services are reopened.
• Employees have been trained to carefully follow the CDC's guidelines in preventing virus transmission.
• The hotel is stocked with sanitizers, and surfaces are regularly cleaned with disinfecting wipes or sprays.
• Items that guests frequently touch, such as door handles, are wiped with disinfectant throughout the day. 

Best getaway near Washington, DC: Virginia's Hunt and Wine Country, one-hour by car

Book Goodstone Inn starting at $285 per night

Virginia's Hunt and Wine Country is an easy escape from Washington DC, reachable in just an hour by car.

As the name suggests, this region is home to over 300 wineries and many equestrian opportunities. Quaint towns, gentleman farms, and rolling hills dot the landscape for sleepy scenery that feels light years away from the chaotic Beltway. 

Numerous small inns are clustered along the country roads but none are finer than Goodstone Inn in Middleburg. This 265-acre estate looks like a fairy tale with colorful gardens set to the soothing sound of fountains and just 18 luxurious guest suites and secluded cottages.

The country-style decor and fine artwork suit the inn's old-world ambiance, while excellent Wi-Fi keeps things up-to-date. All accommodations are individually appointed, private, and romantic, and the limited number of guests and spacious grounds make adhering to social distancing guidelines easy. 

Recreational options include swimming in the heated outdoor pool, hiking and biking on private trails, and canoeing along Goose Creek. The inn's farm grows a variety of heirloom produce, which is woven into the restaurant's menu. A full breakfast is included for overnight guests.

Trip Advisor Ranking: 1 out of 5 B&Bs/Inns in Middleburg

Booking.com Rating: 9.1 out of 10

Pros: The leafy grounds and wealth of outdoor opportunities offer a tranquil immersion in nature. 

Cons: You'll pay DC prices to dine at the expensive on-site restaurant. 

• Five individual private cottages are available to rent. Only one reservation is accepted per cottage so no communal spaces are shared (exception in French Farm Cottage and Manor House where cottage may be divided by a physical barrier with two separate entrances).
• Outdoor dining is offered, with takeout options and room service available as well.
• Hand sanitizing stations, antibacterial wipes, and masks are available throughout the property.
• 24 hour vacancy between all guest stays and after each stay, Dyson air purifiers are used to capture ultrafine particles from all angles.
• Touch-free check-in is offered. Room keys are sanitized and in the door upon arrival.
• The Goodstone team will not enter your accommodation after check-in. All requested items for housekeeping will be left at the door.
• All staff wear masks when interacting with guests, and gloved when delivering any items.
• Due to state regulations, spa, pools, and fitness center are closed.

Best getaway near New York City: The Berkshires, under three hours by car

Book Blantyre Country House Hotel starting at $435 per night

The Berkshires in Western Massachusetts scratches the itch of New Yorkers who crave nature but don't want to skimp on culture. The landscape is a patchwork of quaint villages, gentle mountains, and rural roads, less than three hours from midtown Manhattan.

The scenery and peaceful rhythms have long been a magnet for artists, musicians, and writers . Music lovers make seasonal pilgrimages to Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, though, this year those plans might be altered. Towns like Lenox and Stockbridge are loaded with galleries, respected art museums, Gilded Age mansions neatly tucked away on side streets, and fine dining establishments. 

Set on rolling lawns just outside of Lenox, Blantyre is a bucolic country hotel with a castle-like Main House built in 1902, where a crackling fire and a glass of bubbly await. There are eight guest rooms in the Main House, eleven in the Carriage House, and four roomy cottages. A recent refurbishing embraces modernity while maintaining history blending heirloom furniture, detailed damask upholstery, and elaborate candelabra, plus fresh floral arrangements dropped in for good measure. It's everything you would expect from a Relais & Châteaux Forbes Five Star resort. Blantyre's intimate number of guests coupled with its copious dimensions makes it a fine choice for those who prioritize social distancing while on vacation. 

There's a gorgeous outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, and rambling trails to hike or snowshoe in winter. Most evenings, guests may enjoy a concert in the elegant parlor featuring a talented in-house pianist.

Trip Advisor Ranking: 7 out of 17 hotels in Lenox

Pros: You'll feel like a Gilded-Age millionaire as you dabble in old-world grandeur and enjoy discrete service.

Cons: A bountiful breakfast is included in the room rate, though you'll pay dearly for dinner at the on-site restaurant.

COVID status and policies:  This hotel is currently open and accepting reservations. There are a variety of new safety guidelines and changes in place, in compliance with CDC and state guidelines. As such, visitors entering Massachusetts, including returning residents, who do not meet an exemption, are required to:

• Complete the  Massachusetts Travel Form  prior to arrival, unless visiting from a low-risk state designated by the Department of Public Health .
• Quarantine for 14 days or produce a negative COVID-19 test result that has been administered up to 72-hours prior to your arrival in Massachusetts.

If your COVID-19 test result has not been received prior to arrival, visitors, and residents must quarantine until they receive a negative test result.

Best Getaway near Philadelphia: The Pocono Mountains, less than two hours by car

Book The Lodge at Woodloch starting at $768 per night, per couple, with all meals and activities included

When Philadelphia residents crave nature, they head to the Poconos in the Northeast corner of Pennsylvania. Less than two hours from Center City, winter activities include skiing, snow-shoeing, and ice-skating on frozen ponds. In warmer months, hiking to waterfalls, biking, and swimming in fresh-water lakes and ponds are all popular pastimes. 

The Lodge at Woodloch is set on over 500 private acres of woodlands near the village of Hawley. Guests share fern-carpeted forest trails with a variety of wildlife and 58 guest rooms and suites all have views of the lake or rock garden waterfall from private verandas. Understated interiors strive to connect guests with nature's restorative qualities. Terrariums, Himalayan salt lamps, Cherrywood bed frames, and a menu of pillow options offer in-room calm and comfort. 

The hotel places a premium on providing a healthy environment for its guests, including keeping all spaces scrupulously clean and three health-conscious gourmet meals are included in the nightly room rate. 

Yoga classes, swimming in the pool and lake, archery, and cycling are a few of the many complimentary activities. The hotel's spa is a sanctuary of therapeutic soaking pools and eucalyptus-scented steam rooms with body treatments incorporating indigenous elements and therapies from around the world.

Trip Advisor Ranking: 1 out of 7 hotels in Hawley

Pros: The first-class spa and serene setting are perfect for low-key pampering. Most activities and three daily meals are included, so there are no surprise extras when it comes time to pay the bill. 

Cons: Cellphones must be placed on silent mode in public areas, which could also be a pro for some guests. 

COVID status and policies:  This hotel is currently open and accepting reservations with the following new policies:

• All staff wear masks and have their temperature checked upon arriving to work.   
• Guests will have their temperature taken on arrival and will be required to wear masks in all public areas throughout their stay. 
• Existing and enhanced housekeeping procedures for cleanliness and sanitization (including EPA-approved disinfectant) that meet and exceed industry best practices and standards have been instituted on a heightened schedule.
• Class and activity sizes are capped.
• Frequent deep cleaning of common areas and touchpoints such as handles, faucets, trash-receptacles, light fixtures, remote controls, elevators, buttons, keypads, luggage carts, and counters.
• Additional hand sanitizing stations have been placed in common areas throughout the property.

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

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

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

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

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

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

1. Marvel at the Size of the Kremlin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury Hotels :

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

Mid-Range Hotels :

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

Budget Hotels :

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

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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

10 Ways to Find Cool Places Near You (& Plan the Perfect Staycation!)

Last Updated: February 26, 2021

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With global travel still an uncertainty these days, I’ve learned more than ever to embrace local adventures near me…

Which in Christina terms means I’ve become utterly obsessed with researching all the weirdest, most unique places I can visit within a few hours of my apartment.

I’m lucky to live in Munich , a city that is swimming in hidden gems and plenty of mountains, lakes, castles and villages within 2 hours in each direction.

And while I thought I knew the area well already, quarantine has given me a chance to dig deeper and find unique places that make even born-and-bred Bavarians go “wtf?”

Save this guide to finding local hidden gems for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

So, I would say there is definitely a science to discovering hidden gems, and I’m confident that if you know where to look, you’ll be able to find awesome spots near you too.

To help you out, in this post I will be sharing some of my best tips for finding unique & cool places to explore locally, no matter where you live.

1. We’ll start simple. Use Google… but here’s what to search!

I’m sure by now you already know how to use Google, but there are certain tricks you can use to find cool places to visit nearby…

Beyond just what Page 1 results like TripAdvisor and Culture Trip are recommending.

Here are some tips:

Start with searching “cool places near me” or variations of this.

If you didn’t already know, often Google will localize your search results, which means typing in terms like “cool stuff to do near me” will yield results that are tailored to your current location.

Depending on where you’re located, this will help get you started with some helpful resources, articles and blogs that feature cool places to visit near where you live.

Google “destination + hidden gems” or “destination + secrets”.

This will narrow your search down to more interesting, lesser known places.

Google “destination + local blog”.

Many large cities these days have entire websites dedicated to providing tips to locals.

I myself run one for Munich!

These are the websites you should be looking for if you want to find cool spots to explore nearby, beyond the usual tourist hotspots.

2. Use Google Maps to your advantage

Google Maps has gotten a lot smarter over the years, and these days, the amount of information it gives is honestly mindblowing…. if you know what to search, that is.

One thing I like to do on Google Maps is type in a generic search term like “Landmarks”, which will pull up a list of interesting spots in the area.

Many of them will be ones you’re familiar with, but often you’ll find some lesser known gems too!

For instance, I just did this and found a museum that I had no idea existed only a few blocks away from me. Other good search terms include “Viewpoints”, “Hidden Gems” and “Attractions”.

3. Visit the local tourism board website

I know that as a local, it can feel weird to visit the tourism board website of your own region, BUT these sites are seriously treasure troves of knowledge with comprehensive listings of all the cool things to do in a certain place.

Sure, they’re not often the sleekest or “coolest” websites around, but they’re also often not heavily optimized for search engines, which means much of their content can be missed with a simple Google search.

So, if you want to find more obscure gems from your local area, make sure to visit the tourism board’s website.

I promise you’ll uncover something you never knew existed!

These are usually easy to find as well, just search up “your area + tourism board”.

You should be able to find ones for your local city, state/province, as well as country.

4. Snoop Instagram accounts of local tourism boards and influencers

I’m a visual person, and far prefer SEEING cool places to visit near me vs. reading about them.

While Pinterest can sometimes be handy for this, I get frustrated with the lack of helpful information in Pinterest captions, along with lots of photos which are clearly very very Photoshopped.

Before I ever travelled for myself, I genuinely thought the Isle of Skye in Scotland had purple trees because of Pinterest. I was highly distraught to learn this wasn’t the case.

A great resource for finding new unique spots though is Instagram!

You just have to be strategic about it.

For starters, I highly recommend finding the official Instagram account of your city, state/province, and country tourism boards.

These accounts always feature the best of the best in terms of photos/destinations, and because their job is to specifically promote the heck out of their region, they often showcase lesser known spots too.

I use the “Save” function on Instagram to collect all these spots and sort them into folders as well for ease of browsing later.

I also like to star the locations on Google Maps so I can start to see which spots are close together, and plan a trip around that.

Unsurprisingly, I have a LOT of stars (and hearts!)

5. Find local influencers and photographers to follow

Local travel will definitely be the norm for a little while, so odds are there are a lot of other people in your area who are also seeking local adventures.

One great way to garner inspo then is to follow and snoop the heck out of these fellow adventurers!

Shameless plug note: if you live in Munich or Bavaria, follow me here – I have lots of cool adventures planned!

But now you might be wondering, where do you find these magical local people to snoop on? Here are some tips!

Google “your city/state + blogger”.

The key here is to find bloggers who focus on specific areas or bloggers who are local to that place because they’re more likely to showcase places that are more off the beaten path.

See who is being featured frequently on tourism board/local feature accounts.

The majority of tourism boards source their content from local photographers and influencers anyway, same with generic feature accounts, so find some for your city and then see who is being credited or tagged in the caption.

Look through photography hashtags for your region.

More on this below…

6. Snoop through niche hashtags on Instagram

Clearly, I’m a big fan of using Instagram as a research tool and one very underrated research tool I love is hashtags!

Hashtags are a great way to discover new content, but you need to use them properly.

Here’s how to actually use hashtags to discover unique places near you: the key is to avoid really generic hashtags like #munich or #germany – I’ve found that these are usually flooded with selfies and blurry brunch pics.

Instead, you should be looking through local photography hashtags that only local content creators know about/use.

The best way to find these hashtags is to see what hashtags your favourite creators are already using!

Often accounts will add all their hashtags in the comments as well, so be sure to snoop around and discover niche hashtags to flip through, and potentially find new accounts to follow as well.

In Munich for instance, I’ve found that #SimplyMunich and #MeinMünchen are great hashtags to discover new interesting places.

7. Find unique places to stay near you on Airbnb

Craving a staycation?

Another way to adventure close to home is to find somewhere really unique to stay.

Imagine sleeping in a lighthouse, castle or windmill nearby… that’d be pretty awesome right?

Well, one awesome tool I’ve discovered recently are the search filters on Airbnb, which allow you to find unique accommodations juuuuust like those.

What you’ll want to do is search up the area you’re looking at, then click “More Filters” and navigate down to the “Unique Stays” section.

Here, you can check off boxes for unique kinds of accommodation like treehouses, castles, tiny houses, huts, trains, boats, anything.

You never know what you might find in your area! By doing this I was able to find this LEGO treehouse and a literal survival house built of twigs and leaves . Wild stuff.

8. Buy a Book dedicated to your area

As a blogger who spends 90% of her time online, I tend to forget the huge depth of information out there that exists in print.

I was so surprised to learn one day while doing research that there have been loads of amazing books written about my area, filled with hidden gems and unique spots.

I bought a few right away, including a book that is 100% dedicated to secret locations in Munich…. and one about beer gardens.

Depending on where you’re from, I bet there’s at least one or two books out there that are dedicated to unique places in your area, so be sure to do a quick search.

There’s just something so satisfying about having a physical book to flip through!

9. Get ideas from Atlas Obscura

One of my favourite websites to check whenever I’m planning a trip is Atlas Obscura .

Their focus is wondrous and unique locations that are not necessarily the most typical tourist sights, so imagine things like secret hidden museums, or chapels made out of bones, and other wonderful, mildly morbid things that are quite different to what most guidebooks would recommend.

I’m a huge sucker for quirky, unexpected places so I am addicted to this website and will check it whenever I’m planning a trip.

This would also be a great resource if you are looking for cool places in or near your hometown that you may have never heard of before.

10. Get tips from Spotted by Locals

Last but not least, Spotted by Locals is an interesting site that relies on local know-how to create city guides mainly in Europe and North America.

I like that they employ local writers to share their expertise, which means you won’t be getting any generic tips about the city’s most popular attractions.

Instead, you’re getting insight into local gems and places that would be more interesting to you as a local, or someone from the area.

Any more tips for finding cool things to do near you?

Let me know in the comments if you have any other recommendations! Happy wanders!

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The best things to do and places to visit in Moscow, Russia

Updated On 19th June, 2024

While Moscow isn’t always at the top of everyone’s Europe bucket list , it’s certainly one of the best places to visit in Europe if you’re looking for a more alternative adventure! In this blog post I plan on sharing some of the free things to do in Moscow, as well as the best places to visit in Moscow, so that you can enjoy some of the best things to do in Russia! 

Moscow, the capital of Russia, sits in the European part of the country. It’s an incredibly beautiful city, which I personally found to be more beautiful than Saint Petersburg (which is often people’s preference). The capital is certainly a lot busier, and less laid back than Saint Petersburg , but it’s a much more colourful and vibrant city, full of stunning and unique architecture.

Visiting famous landmarks such as The Kremlin and St Basil’s Cathedral, enjoying some of the green space in Gorky Park, watching a ballet in the Bolshoi Theatre… these are just a few reasons that you should visit Moscow! On top of that, because of visa restrictions (we’ll get onto that later), it’s also one of the most unique destinations in Europe. 

There is a common misconception that Moscow is a dangerous city, but now that I’ve visited, I don’t believe this to be true. I would say the same rules apply here as to other large cities: avoid walking in dark areas alone at night, keep an eye on your belongings on public transport, and be streetwise. There’s no reason to avoid visiting this energetic city and miss out on these amazing things to do in Moscow! 

It would take months if you wanted to truly explore Moscow because it’s a huge city, but I’m going to share some of my favourite things to do in Moscow and places to visit in Moscow so that you can prepare for your upcoming adventure! Even if you’re only there for a few days, you should be able to fit in these highlights from my trip. 

Other blog posts you might be interested in…

• The best things to do in St Petersburg
• A 2-week Norway road trip
• A complete guide to Helsinki
• A complete guide to Tallinn
• Europe: the ultimate travel guide
• The best capital cities to visit in Europe
• The best things to do in Europe: the ultimate Europe bucket list

Where is Moscow?

If you’re wondering ‘Where is Moscow, Russia?’ then you’ve come to the right place! Moscow in in west Russia, the European part, and it’s the capital city. 

How do you get to Moscow?

Getting a visa for moscow:.

To get into Russia, you need to get a visa. The processing time is approximately 20 days, and you’ll need to have your fingerprints taken at a visa centre in London , Edinburgh or Manchester. You can find out more about getting a visa for Russia here.  

Getting to Moscow:

Once you’ve got your visa, the easiest way to get to Moscow from the UK is by flying. Direct flights between London and Moscow take just under four hours, and with an airport layover you’re looking at a 6-7 hour trip. You can also fly in from many other major European and international cities. 

Top tip: Check out flights to and from Copenhagen on  Skyscanner here.

Check out how to pack a weekend away in a carry-on suitcase here.

Top tip: Getting around Moscow

If you want to get a taxi, use the local taxi app “Yandex” which is similar to Uber. Definitely avoid taxis waiting in tourist spots, as they can charge you ridiculous amounts of money for a very short ride.

16 best places to visit in Moscow

1. st basil’s cathedral.

The most iconic building in Russia and one of the most iconic buildings in the world. St Basil’s Cathedral is one of the best places to visit in Moscow, if not the best! 

St Basil’s is situated on Red Square, where you’ll also find many other popular places to visit in Moscow. In my opinion this still stands out against them all. There’s something about the multi coloured domes against the Moscow skyline that I found quite spectacular. 

Although I’d already been in Russia for several days, it wasn’t until I was at this amazing piece of architecture that I really felt I was in Russia.

The cathedral was built by order of Ivan the Terrible, and apparently after the architect completed it, Ivan blinded him so that he could never build anything more beautiful. Whether or not this story is true, it certainly adds a bittersweet feeling as you stand admiring the beauty of St Basil’s Cathedral.

Inside is a museum displaying many historic items once used at the cathedral, which costs 700 rubles to enter. In my opinion it’s worth the entry fee, as simply seeing the ornate interior walls is a spectacle in itself.

2. The Kremlin

This historic fortress that sits on Red Square is probably the largest landmark and one of the most popular places to visit in Moscow. It’s the official residence of the President, although he doesn’t actually live there. It’s been rebuilt many times since it was first constructed in 1147 out of wood, before Ivan III the Great ordered it to be made from stone, which is the Kremlin you’ll recognise today. 

This place is huge, and there’s quite a lot to see. The first problem I had was finding where the entrance was. Even though I had a pre-booked ticket, I was then told I still had to visit the ticket office to exchange it for another ticket. I also needed my passport, so make sure you have yours if you plan to visit the Kremlin. After a lengthy queue I finally had a ticket I could use to enter the Kremlin, and had to go through security. The security here is thorough, so make sure you don’t take too much in with you. I had my pockets full, and it was a nightmare emptying them and explaining each item, before I was finally allowed in. Once inside you can pay for extra tickets to visit the various museums, however there’s also quite a lot to see simply on the grounds if you don’t want to spend too much. 

See more tips for travelling on a budget here. 

There’s so much to see here, including The Assumption Cathedral, Ivan the Great Bell Tower Complex, the Grand Kremlin Palace, the Armoury Chamber and Diamond Fund. There is also the Tsar Cannon (a huge artillery cannon), and the Tsar Bell. The Tsar Bell is the largest bell in the world. An incident with a fire and water being poured over the bell caused it to crack and for a slab to break off from it, which can now be seen propped up next to it.

As you walk around the grounds you’ll hear the sound of whistles. The guards patrolling the area will blow a whistle at anyone walking where they shouldn’t. Even if it’s just on the grass, or towards more restricted areas. This can sometimes be funny to watch, as often the tourists will be in a world of their own whilst a guard is blowing a whistle at them. Sometimes a guard will be stood face to face with a tourist angrily blowing their whistle before the tourist realises they need to get back onto the main path.

This is perhaps one of the more unusual places to visit in Moscow! Gum is a huge department store situated on Red Square. It’s an interesting department store to walk around, with several levels, although the shops inside are certainly quite pricey. It’s a beautiful building when it’s lit up at night, and it seems to fit in nicely amongst the other famous sights on Red Square. Even if you don’t plan to buy anything here, one of the best things to do in Moscow is to take a quick look inside, although bear in mind there are usually security checks before entering.

4. State Historical Museum

The large crimson building on Red Square is now the State Historical Museum. It was originally the first pharmacy in Russia, and later a University before finally becoming the museum it is today.

Unfortunately I didn’t go inside as my time was limited and there was so much else I wanted to see, but if you have the time I think it would be one of the best things to do in Moscow. There are items dating back to the 6th century, and maybe even further. There’s also a library inside storing many ancient manuscripts and the largest coin collection in Russia. 

5. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi means big in Russian, so it roughly translates to large theatre. The Bolshoi Theatre is one of the foremost ballet companies in the world. The exterior of the building is an impressive sight, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Moscow, and it’s certainly worth admiring from the outside. There are guided tours of the interior, but if you really want to experience the theatre, one of the best things to do in Moscow is to watch a ballet here.

I was torn between booking a seat, but the ballets were very expensive. I’d have liked to have seen “Swan Lake”, (as at least I may have recognised some of the music). Unfortunately there were no performances on the days I was in Moscow, so I decided to pass. But if I return to Russia, then watching a ballet will be on my list of things to do.

6. Sparrow Hills

If you want a good view of the city, then Sparrow Hills is one of the best places to visit in Moscow. It’s a bit of a trek outside of the centre, but if you have the time then it offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the busy city. There’s a viewing platform here which gives you fantastic panoramic views of Moscow.

Nearby you’ll see the magnificent Moscow State University building, which is one of the seven sisters of Moscow.

7. Seven Sisters

Whilst in Moscow, you’ll no doubt notice these magnificent soviet skyscrapers dotted around the city. At the time of construction they were the tallest buildings in Europe, Moscow State University being so until 1997. There are, as the name suggests, seven in total, which are: Hotel Ukraina, Kotelnicheskaya Embankment Apartments, the Kudrinskaya Square Building, the Hilton Moscow Leningradskaya Hotel, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Moscow State University, and the Red Gates Administrative Building.

If you visit Sparrow Hills, then you’ll come across Moscow State University, but I’m certain as you explore the city, you’ll see more of these giants against the Moscow skyline. One of the best things to do in Moscow is to see if you can locate all seven as you wander round the city! 

8. Nikolskaya Street

The start of this street is found by Red Square. It’s one of the most prominent pedestrianised streets in Moscow, filled with shops, restaurants and bars, so one of the best places to visit in Moscow if you’re looking for a bite to eat or some souvenirs!

What makes this street extra special are the thousands of bright lights in the sky above. After dark it looks simply magical with the many colourful lights overhead as you walk beneath them. One of the best things to do in Moscow is to visit Nikolskaya Street after dark and see them for yourself. It almost feels like Christmas in London!

There is another street nearby which also features similar lights, “Kuznetskiy Most”, which is also quite beautiful, but I thought “Nikolskaya Street” was ever slightly more impressive.

9. Izmailovo Kremlin and Izmaylovskiy Bazar

Did you know that The Kremlin in Red Square is not the only Kremlin in Moscow? Kremlin actually means a type of fortress, so there are many in Russia.

The Izmailovo Kremlin is a fairly new addition to the city, having been built in 2007 as a cultural centre. With its multitude of colours and historic style, it has a real fairytale feel to it. There are several small museums here for you to explore, devoted to subjects such as Russian folk art, vodka and bread (yes, bread). Visiting these is definitely one of the more unique things to do in Moscow! 

It’s a little way out of the centre, but it’s an interesting place to visit in Moscow to see something a little bit different, and it won’t be as overcrowded with tourists. 

Next to the Izmailovo Kremlin is the best market in Moscow for souvenirs. You’ll find good and poor quality items, but you’ll certainly pick up a bargain if you take your time and haggle for a good price. Many of the items here you’ll get for half the price you would in souvenir shops in the city centre. It’s here that I picked up several Matryoshka dolls for a very good price. I think I’d have paid more than double, or possibly even triple if I’d have bought them elsewhere.

10. Izmailovsky Park

Not too far from Izmailovo Kremlin you’ll find this huge park, one of the prettiest places to visit in Moscow. It’s easy to get lost here, so try to make sure you keep track of where you entered if you plan to go back the same way. There’s a lot to see in this park, a round pond, ferris wheel, playgrounds and sports grounds, shooting galleries, cinemas and a skate park.

There are often festivals, concerts and exhibitions at the park, on top of firework displays and dance parties.

The main reason I chose to visit the park was to find the painted trees. A local artist “Yevgenia Khlynina” has been painting on trees in this park, and one of the best things to do in Moscow is to explore the park looking for them. One of the most famous pieces of hers is the “Hedgehog in the Fog” from a famous soviet cartoon.

11. Gorky Park

The most famous park in Moscow is named after the writer “Maxim Gorky”. Although it’s likely you’ve heard it mentioned in the song “Wind of Change” by “The Scorpions”. 

There’s lots to do and see in the park with sports facilities and exhibitions. During the summer months this is one of the best places to visit if you’re looking for things to do in Moscow; there are often open air concerts and an open air cinema. There are many statues and sculptures in the park, including a small sculpture park area which features many interesting pieces.

One piece of advice: don’t visit Gorky Park or any other parks on 2nd August if you’re in Russia. 2nd August is Paratrooper day, which usually encourages a lot of drinking in the park, which is not always very welcoming.

12. Arbat Street

One of the oldest and busiest streets in Moscow, and the most famous pedestrian street in the city. Arbat is one of the most popular places to visit in Moscow. There are several shops including many dedicated to souvenirs, but although these will have a good range of goods, they will be quite expensive . You may see street performers and buskers, and there are often poets reciting famous works, if not their own works.

It’s within walking distance from the Kremlin, which should only take around 10 minutes.

There are actually two streets with this name, Old Arbat Street and New Arbat Street. Old Arbat Street is where you’ll find the pedestrianised area. New Arbat Street is a separate street which runs alongside a main road, filled with many bars and restaurants.

13. Metro station art

The best way to get around Moscow is by using the metro, and the metro is a tourist attraction in itself.

Although I obviously didn’t visit every metro station, I believe that every single station is unique in its own beautiful way. Many of the stations I passed through were impressive, quirky or simply jaw dropping. You’ll more than likely pass through many of them on the way to other sights, but I’d recommend the following:  Komsomolskaya, Novoslobodskaya, Mayakovskaya, Teatralnaya, Arbatskaya, Prospekt Mira and Ploschad Revolutsii (be sure to pet the dog statue for good luck).

There are of course many others for you to explore, but these are the ones I considered to be some of the most impressive places to visit in Moscow (even if they’re only metro stations!).

VDNKh is an exhibition centre with many monuments and museums. Now that it’s combined with the Botanical Garden and Ostankino Park, one of the best things to do in Moscow is to spend the day at this recreational centre enjoying a mix of nature and culture. The most popular museum in the complex which you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Moscow is the Museum of Cosmonautics.

15. Lenin’s Mausoleum

Despite requesting to be buried with his mum in St Petersburg, it is at the foot of the Kremlin on Red Sqaure that you will find Lenin’s Mausoleum, where Vladimir Ilych Lenin has been frozen in time since 1924. It’s only open for a few hours a few times per week. Photography is not allowed, and you should line up on the western corner of the square (near Alexander Garden) to wait you turn to see the embalmed body. 

16. Novodevichy Convent

Novodevichy Convent, on the UNESCO World Heritage List, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Moscow. Located south west of the centre you’ll find this stunning monastery. Inside you’ll find a cathedral and several churches, surrounded by high walls and 12 towers.

Where are your favourite places to visit in Moscow?

What about the best things to do in Moscow? Anything you’d add?

Love as always and happy adventuring…

Martin Taylor

I’m Spike! Solo traveller, cultural explorer and world adventurer! With 57 countries under my belt, I live and breathe travel. I never plan to stop exploring new destinations and experiencing new cultures.

Did you find this post helpful? I’d love you to share it for me.

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I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE. 

I’D LOVE TO SHARE THE JOURNEY WITH YOU, WE’VE GROWN A LOT SINCE THEN!

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17 Awesome Day Trips From Toronto (+ How to Get There)

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Check Out These Day Trips From Toronto – Told By Our Local!

If you want to explore outside of Toronto – and/or you’re short one time – a day trip around southwestern Ontario is a great idea. This area of the province is packed with day trip ideas that have something to offer you in every season (except beaches in winter, obviously).

Eric would know – he grew up north of Toronto (near Barrie) and spent lots of time driving around Ontario for work once upon a time. Recently, and with Lisa, we’ve played tourist quite a bit. Now that we call the “Greater Golden Horseshoe” home once again, it’s an area we know quite well!

While it’s true that many Toronto day trips are best done with a car , Ontario transit is improving so we’ll tell you about all the ways to get somewhere whether that be by car, bus, train, or tour!

From classic small towns like Elora or Niagara-on-the-Lake to attractions like Niagara Falls and plenty of beaches, here is our list of great day trips from Toronto in both summer and winter!

Popular Toronto Day Tours

• Niagara Falls Day Tour from Toronto (w/ Optional Boat Cruise)
• Day Tour to Niagara on the Lake & Niagara Falls
• Bruce Peninsula National Park & Tobermory Day Trip

Table of Contents

Niagara Falls

Address for Table Rock Welcome Centre: 6650 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON, Canada

Did you know one of the top natural attractions in the world is a day trip from Toronto? Honestly, you probably did – but it’s good to mention it again anyway!

Niagara Falls is one of the best places to visit in Ontario and a popular sightseeing attraction in all of Canada – and for good reason!

Just so we are clear: Niagara Falls, Ontario is a city in Canada while Niagara Falls, New York is the city in the United States just across the river from it – and “Niagara Falls” is also the name of the three waterfalls that people come to see. This includes:

• Horseshoe Falls also known as the “Canadian Falls” is the biggest one people think of first
• American Falls is the name of a smaller waterfall on the American side (also beautiful)
• Bridal Veil Falls is the smallest one right beside the American Falls!

In any case, a visit to the Niagara Falls region is a great idea. There are lots of great attractions that have to do with the Falls themselves like: the famous Hornblower Boat Cruise , Journey Behind the Falls , Skylon Observation Tower , and much more.

There are even fireworks each evening in the summer, and the Falls are lit up every night all year round for you to enjoy. In winter, the Festival of Lights means Friday and Saturday Fireworks from November to early January!

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The downtown core of the city – located around Clifton Hill – is loaded with restaurants, casinos, museums, games, and attractions for the whole family like the Niagara Skywheel, Dinosaur Adventure Golf, and many, many more.

North of the main falls area along the Niagara River, there are other natural attractions like the Niagara Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours , the White Water Walk , the Whirlpool Aero Car , The Botanical Gardens + Butterfly Conservatory , and more.

In short, you’d have plenty to do and see in Niagara Falls to fill up a day trip. Because Niagara Falls is so popular (especially in the summertime), it would be a good idea to book tickets for top activities ahead of time to make it easier for yourself.

You can start your visit at the Welcome Centre – it’s right at the edge of Horseshoe Falls.

We’ve also written extensive guides on visiting Niagara Falls:

• Things to Do and See in Niagara Falls, Canada
• How to Get to Niagara Falls from Toronto – More Detailed
• Where to Stay in Niagara Falls (just in case you decide to stay over)!

Toronto to Niagara Falls By Car

Niagara Falls isn’t that far from Toronto – it’s just around the end of Lake Ontario to the southeast. That said, the driving distance is around 130 kilometres and might take as little as 1 hour and 30 minutes.

The most direct/popular route is to hop on the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW)/403 towards Hamilton but you could also take a more scenic route on Highway 81 through areas like Beamsville.

Once you get closer to the Falls on the QEW, follow signs and exit onto ON-420/ Niagara Veterans Memorial Highway East. You can then find parking near the Falls for a high price (but convenient) or find a cheaper lot (but have to walk a bit).

HOWEVER, if you are driving you have to account for traffic in and out of Toronto and through Hamilton. During morning and afternoon commuter times, you might expect to add on 30 minutes to an extra 2 hours of driving time.

Toronto to Niagara Falls By Train

If you want to take the train, you have two options which can be limited depending on the time of year: the GO Train and the ViaRail. Both trains leave from Toronto Union Station in downtown Toronto.

Address of Union Station: 65 Front St W, Toronto, ON

As of early 2024, the GO Train from Toronto to Niagara Falls Station now makes daily trips (not just weekend or seasonal). This new Toronto to Niagara Falls GO train schedule makes the GO train much more doable and convenient as a viable option for a day trip.

The ViaRail train also leaves from Toronto Union Station but only runs once per day in the morning taking about 2 hours to get to Niagara Falls. There is also one return ViaRail train each day. You can  check the ViaRail website  for schedules and details.

Address for Go/ViaRail Station: 4267 Bridge Street, Niagara Falls, ON

Both trains arrive at the same station in Niagara Falls located north of the main Falls area. You can hop on the WEGO bus (now operates year-round), call a cab, or just walk – it’s a nice walk along the river (about 25 minutes) to the Falls!

Toronto to Niagara Falls By Bus

For buses direct to Niagara Falls from Toronto, you have two options: Megabus or FlixBus.

The Megabus and the FlixBus now leave from the new Union Station Bus Terminal located right downtown beside Union Station (the central train station). It’s at the corner of Bay St & Lakeshore Blvd. on the 2nd floor.

Address of Union Bus Terminal Downtown: 81 Bay St, Toronto, ON

Megabus and Flixbus have numerous daily departures for trips that take about 2 hours and good fares (approximately 20 CAD one way). You can check here on the  Megabus website and here for the FlixBus website for their schedules to Niagara Falls.

Once you arrive in Niagara Falls, buses get into the bus station in Niagara Falls which is right across from the train station.

Address of Niagara Falls Bus Terminal: 4555 Erie Ave, Niagara Falls, ON

Toronto to Niagara Falls Tour

Another way to get to Niagara Falls that is easy and takes the stress out of the logistics and traffic is by hopping on a shuttle or tour.

Tours are also a good cost-effective way to see the Falls without having added expenses like daily parking. Luckily for you, Niagara Falls is very popular so there are many that you can choose from!

Before you book a tour, definitely look into the itinerary – some tours are just for Niagara Falls while others give you free time/wine tastings in Niagara on the Lake (mentioned below).

In any case, tours are a good way to sit back and relax while a guide takes you to the best experiences and sights!

• This Niagara Day tour from Toronto is popular and includes different activities at Niagara Falls
• This popular day tour from Toronto to Niagara Falls includes a stop in Niagara-on-the-Lake (another great spot for a day trip – read the next section!).

Niagara-on-the-Lake

Address for Downtown NOTL: 6 Picton St, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0, Canada

If you want to explore Ontario’s premier wine region, you have to check out Niagara on the Lake.

Yes, you COULD visit Niagara-on-the-Lake (NOTL) when you visit Niagara Falls – but you could just as easily make either of them their own day trip since there is enough to explore.

Niagara-on-the-Lake is both a region and also a lovely little town in the region. Think of it as the capital of the area. This historic town is full of charm – shops, restaurants, historic sites, waterfront parks, and more.

That said, the region is well-known in Canada for its wine. NOTL is a fertile area with a unique climate that is shaped by the Niagara Escarpment. As such, there are well over 90 wineries in the Niagara Region – many of which are in Niagara on the Lake.

Niagara-on-the-Lake is also one of the few places in the world that can produce Ice Wine – a sweet wine that is harvested from frozen grapes!

In any case, we would recommend a day in NOTL – the region has loads to check out on its own and it’s beautiful.

We did a wine tour of the region from Niagara Falls but you can sign up for a tour once you get to town. You can also do a self-guided tour which is easy when you have a winery map!

We wrote an article about some of our favourite wineries in Niagara on the Lake if you are interested in scouting out a few before you go!

• Our Detailed Guide on Things to Do in Niagara on the Lake
• Niagara-on-the-Lake Wine Tours – Our Awesome Day Tasting!
• Our Niagara on the Lake Accommodation Guide – Just in case!

Toronto to Niagara-on-the-Lake By Car

The best (and only) way to get to Niagara-on-the-Lake (the town) -and to get around the whole region once there – is with a car.

Niagara-on-the-Lake is located about 20/25 minutes north of Niagara Falls so you drive there the same way – on the QEW/403 highway towards Hamilton.

Once you get close, you can get off in St. Catharines or in Glendale and follow signs into the region (usually via Highway 55 which runs through the whole region) directly to the town of Niagara-on-the-Lake.

The drive will take about 1 hour and 30 minutes in total. You’ll find paid parking downtown NOTL – and free (sneaky) parking near the Fort if you don’t mind a bit of a walk!

Toronto to Niagara-on-the-Lake By Train

There is no direct train from Toronto to Niagara-on-the-Lake (the town). You can get to “Niagara College” which is a campus IN Niagara-on-the-Lake if you train to St. Catharines but NOT close to the main old town.

Toronto to Niagara-on-the-Lake By Bus

You also can’t get to the town of Niagara-on-the-Lake by bus right from Toronto. You’d have to take a Megabus to St. Catharines and then take regional buses into the region (not super easy for a day trip).

The other option is to get to the Niagara Falls bus station (mentioned above in Niagara Falls) and then take the WEGO NOTL route (only in the summer) or take a taxi (about 25 minutes) from the bus station to NOTL.

Toronto to Niagara-on-the-Lake Tour

Since a car is the only way to get there for a single-day trip, you could also look into a tour to get there and back without hassle.

A tour is also nice because then you have a designated driver!

• A classic Day Trip from Toronto to Niagara on the Lake (includes stops in Niagara Falls)
• Another Day Tour from Toronto to Niagara Falls which includes a stop in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Toronto Islands

Address for Jack Layton Ferry Terminal: 9 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5J 2H3, Canada

If you want to get out of the city for a day – but don’t want to go too far at all, you can head across the lake to Toronto Islands!

“The Island” is made up of 15 large and small islands that are connected by bridges or walkways. It’s the largest car-free neighbourhood in any city in North America! The Islands are a popular escape in most seasons – you can even visit in the winter.

There are many attractions (like Centreville Amusement Park ), beaches (there’s even one clothing option), smaller parks, and green spaces for picnics, biking paths, the opportunity for boat rentals, and more! There are also a handful of cafes, bars, and restaurants around the island.

We visited the Islands this past summer and loved it. We took the ferry from downtown (more on that right below).

Once there, we went to the beach, walked almost the whole length, got a bite to eat, and came home after a long day just enjoying the slower pace compared to being in the big city!

Believe it or not – people do live on the island. Since there are no cars, a bike is a very popular way to get around. You’ll find bike rentals everywhere.

Our Tip: Check out this Island Bike Tour With a Local to make the most of your time on the island!

Toronto to Toronto Islands By Car

It’s a car-free set of islands. You can’t drive there nor can you drive on the Islands, silly.

Toronto to Toronto Islands By Ferry/Water Taxi

To get to the Island, you have to go by boat but you have two options: The official ferry or a private water taxi. We bought a ticket for the ferry.

Three ferry routes leave from the same spot (Jack Layton Ferry Terminal) in downtown Toronto – but the ferries run to three separate locations on the Island: Centre Island, Hanlan’s Island, and Ward’s Island.

The ferry only takes like 13 minutes to cross but loading and unloading can take a few extra (especially in summer).

The nice thing is that when you buy a ticket, it includes the price for a return ticket. So you show a ticket to get on the ferry but to come home from the Island you just get on any ferry you like.

For example, we took the first ferry to Centre Island and came home from Ward’s Island Ferry Dock. No problem. You can buy a Ferry Ticket online (which we recommend because the lineup to buy in-person was massive in the summer).

The other option to get to the island is to hop on a private water taxi. Because they are smaller to load and faster to cross, they are a bit more expensive than the regular ferry ticket – but generally worth it if you don’t like long lines.

There are a few companies if you want to shop around at the pier – or you can check out Toronto Harbour Tours for this.

Location for Mill Street W Intersection

If it’s a small-town vibe you’re after, then heading for Elora, Ontario is the day trip for you. Located to the northwest of Toronto (kind of between Guelph, Arthur, and Kitchener), this picturesque spot is consistently considered one of Ontario’s prettiest small towns.

We visited on an extended weekend in the fall (October) and the colours were amazing. Of course, there is so much to see and do in any season – we wrote a massive guide on visiting Elora !

Elora is known for a few things: the mighty Grand River running through it and creating an impressive gorge, the historic old architecture, local shops and restaurants, and loads of walking trails in the area.

Right on the water, the impressive Elora Mill Hotel and Spa sits in an old mill building – we stayed there and it was beautiful. Nearby, Victoria Park offers views of the Elora Gorge, the waterfall, and the iconic “Tooth of Time” rock formation in the river.

As for the town, we loved our dinner and drink stop at Elora Brewing Company and took to the walking trails along the river and beyond (we did a big loop towards Fergus and back).

In the summer, you can go river tubing at Elora Gorge Conservation Area (very popular) and swim at the Elora Quarry (very busy).

Read More: Check Out Great Inns in Ontario !

Toronto to Elora By Car

Driving from Toronto to Elora takes about 2 hours (plus or minus 15 with or without traffic) depending on where you leave from.

The best way is the 401 Westbound towards Guelph, then take the exit for Highway 6 (towards/through Guelph).

If you stay on Highway 6 after Guelph, you’ll end up in the nearby town of Fergus, so you’ll need to adjust your course slightly. Fergus is only 5-10 minutes up the river driving from Elora. The signs are pretty clear once you’re in the region.

Toronto to Elora by Transit/Shuttle

The only option to not drive to Elora is to take the ParkBus – a private company that runs day trip shuttles from Toronto to parks, conservation areas, and hiking trails around Ontario.

They run trips to both Elora Gorge Conservation and the Elora Quarry (both in the warmer months) which you can check out on the ParkBus destinations page .

Hamilton Area Waterfalls

Address for Albion Falls: 885 Mountain Brow Blvd, Hamilton, ON, Canada

It’s been said that Hamilton, Ontario is the waterfall capital of the world – and we would believe it!

The region just west of Toronto on Lake Ontario is home to well over 100 naturally occurring waterfalls. The number of waterfalls is thanks to the Niagara Escarpment that runs through southwestern Ontario (and beyond).

You can visit Hamilton – the city – but we’d suggest checking out the conservation areas, parks, trails, and waterfalls in the region all around the Hamilton area as well.

We spent a day physically driving around the area chasing waterfalls and going for hikes in conservation areas – and it was awesome!

Read More: Our Guide to Exploring Hamilton Waterfalls

If you don’t want to read our whole post on waterfalls – linked right above – here are the quick notes to get you started. We explored a few popular waterfalls and a few smaller ones to get a variety.

This included Albion Falls, Buttermilk Falls, Devil’s Punchbowl out in Stoney Creek, and the classic Tiffany Falls.

We didn’t get to explore the amazing view from Dundas Peak with Webster Falls nearby. You can also explore Eramosa Karst Conservation Area (with caves) close to Albion.

If you need a great view and hike, Albion Falls is a great option with parking to go on a short hike (about 15 minutes) to Buttermilk Falls. It’s easy terrain – just watch the path in places because it’s a steep drop!

We also really liked Felker’s Falls in Felker’s Falls Conservation Area. You park in a small residential neighbourhood and walk into the small park to get a set of falls all to yourself.

The trails were nice, too – very dense bush even though the car was just a few hundred metres away!

Toronto to Hamilton Waterfalls By Car

Since this day trip is to “explore the waterfalls around Hamilton” it is a must that you have a car.

We spent a whole day driving around the countryside from fall to fall and had a great time – and we only saw a fraction of the waterfalls/conservation areas.

That said, you can get to Hamilton the same way you go to Niagara Falls – on the QEW/403 towards Hamilton. The drive from Toronto to downtown takes about an hour to 1 hour 30 minutes (or a little more) with traffic.

Once you arrive, you might want to know which waterfalls you want to head for and have a bit of a plan.

For example, Dundas, Downtown Hamilton, and Stoney Creek are three very different areas so you shouldn’t just “go for it” or else you’ll waste time crisscrossing your path! The good news: most of the park areas have parking lots (some free, some paid).

Toronto to Hamilton By Train/Bus

You certainly can get to Hamilton by GO Bus from Toronto Union Station Bus Terminal. The ride takes about 50 minutes to get to downtown Hamilton. You can find more information on prices and routes with GO Transit here .

That said, once you get to Hamilton – for a day trip – it would be hard to then get to enough waterfalls using other public transit to make the trip possible. This is a day trip that just requires a car to complete in a worthwhile way.

Address for Cheltenham Badlands: 1739 Olde Base Line Road, Caledon, ON L7C  0K6

Caledon is one of those things on this list that you’ll have to read more into because we cover a lot when we say “visit Caledon”.

Caledon is a rural town that is located northwest of Toronto – and it is divided into several small little villages and areas.

There’s a tiny “downtown” in Caledon Village which you can check out, but the reason to head for the area is for the hikes and the nature.

Caledon is home to some top conservation areas (in the Credit Valley) with waterfalls, walking trails, fishing, and geological attractions unlike anywhere in Ontario. There are MANY but we will focus on three:

One of the most popular parks to check out is Belfountain Conservation Area . It’s popular for day-trippers because there’s a lovely bridge that overlooks a dam/waterfall.

We went for a hike there and it was beautiful. There is even a picnic place for families. If you head for Belfountain, be sure to stop for a coffee and treat at Higher Ground Café !

Another very popular feature of the Caledon area is Forks of the Credit Provincial Park . This small Provincial Park is day-use only and packed with hiking trails, bridges, and a waterfall.

The Bruce Trail and Trans Canada Trail – as well as the Park’s trails- all run through this varied, rolling landscape. We had a great visit and even made our Forks of the Credit guide with a sample hiking itinerary (with detailed photos)!

The last feature of the area that you can check out is the Cheltenham Badlands . As the name suggests, this rock formation resembles the red, rocky Badlands of Utah or Alberta.

The eroding earth is very cool to see up close (but you can’t walk on it, which is good because that protects it from human activity).

They redid the visitor area so that you can now read all about the history, hit the hiking trails, and have a place to park that you must pay for and off the main road. Our advice is to go early since the lot is small!

Toronto to Caledon By Car

Spoiler: This Caledon “explorer’s day trip” is best/only done with a car. Caledon isn’t too far from Toronto – but where you are starting will greatly dictate your route. Generally speaking, Caledon is to the northwest of Toronto past Brampton.

Once you get out of Toronto in the west end, you can take any of Highway 10, Dixie Road, or Airport Road northwest into the area. The driving distance is about 60 km and will take 45 minutes or longer (like an hour) with traffic.

Toronto to Caledon By Bus

Honestly, it would be hard to maximize your time in the area if you travelled by bus to Caledon. That said, you could get to Brampton GO Station via bus or train from Union and then take bus 37 towards Orangeville and get off in Caledon Village.

You’d have a hard time from there, though. Maybe pay for a taxi to take you around?

Collingwood + Blue Mountain

Address for Blue Mountain Resort: 190 Gord Canning Dr, The Blue Mountains, ON L9Y 1C2, Canada

Summer or winter, it doesn’t matter – it’s always a good idea to head up to Collingwood and the Blue Mountains on a day trip!

The town of Collingwood – located on the shores of southern Georgian Bay – is small with a nice walkable downtown area full of shops and places to eat. The nearby Millennium Overlook Park or the Collingwood Museum are other places to visit!

We loved Duncan’s Cafe for brunch/lunch – but there are many more places to try!

You have to drive through Collingwood to get to the actual “Blue Mountains” which are a raised geological area. There, you’ll find Blue Mountain Resort – arguably the best summer/winter resort in the province.

From top slopes in the winter to dozens of activities in the summer, it’s a popular spot to check out. We went for a visit to The Village last summer (Lisa’s first time) and it was an absolute hub of activity.

Another place you can check out if you’re heading to this area of the province is the Scandinave Spa at Blue Mountain . This VERY popular spa experience is the perfect way to unwind (especially in the winter) with outdoor baths, waterfalls, massages, fire pits, and more.

Toronto to Collingwood By Car

By far the easiest way to get to Collingwood is by car. Collingwood is located to the north of Toronto on the south shore of Georgian Bay (getting into Ontario cottage country) about 2 hours and 20 minutes driving (about 160 km driving distance).

The best route is very similar to how you drive to Caledon – through Brampton, Orangeville (Highway 10), and then just follow County Road 124 the rest of the way.

The other route is up Highway 400 (past Barrie) but then heads west on Horseshoe Valley Road until it becomes Highway 26.

Highway 26 will take you right through Stayner, downtown Collingwood, and Blue Mountain. This route also takes longer because traffic is usually awful on the 400.

Once you arrive in Collingwood, there’s plenty of street parking. If you are heading for Blue Mountain, you will find that they have large parking lots, too.

Toronto to Collingwood By Bus/Shuttle

You can get to Collingwood in the winter season by private tour/shuttle services that run from Toronto to Collingwood. Check out AU Coach Tours with downtown Toronto pick-ups to Blue Mountain.

Wasaga Beach

Address for Nancy Island: 119 Mosley St, Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z 2X1, Canada

Speaking of southern Georgian Bay, how about a day at the beach? How about a day at the longest freshwater beach in the world?! Well, that’s Wasaga Beach for you.

Located in the town of Wasaga Beach north of the city (just east of Collingwood), the stretch of shoreline offers visitors 14 kilometres of sandy beach and summer and winter fun.

Officially Wasaga Beach Provincial Park , the beach is Blue Flag certified (that means it’s really good/safe for world standards) and also includes walking and cross-country ski trails in the winter!

Along the waterfront (in the summer), there are a TON (seriously, very many) restaurants, bars, stores, and shops – you name it, it’s there! The area also has a bit of natural and war history to check out at Nancy Island Historic Site.

Toronto to Wasaga Beach By Car

Once again, for a day trip, the best/only option to get to Wasaga Beach is by car. The town and beach are located about a 2-hour drive north of Toronto with a driving distance of about 150 kilometres.

The route is the same way you would head to Collingwood but instead head slightly east instead of west when you reach Georgian Bay.

You can also go up Highway 400, get off in Barrie, and snake along smaller highways and county roads to get there.

Once you get there, you’ll find ample parking. Some lots and spots are 5 dollars close to the beach. You can also park inside the official park – but it’s 3 or 4 times that price.

Prince Edward County

Address for Beacon Bike and Brew: 188 Picton Main St, Picton, ON K0K 2T0, Canada

This is probably one of the farthest day trips we have on the list, but a day trip to Prince Edward County is worth it!

This “island-like” region (it’s technically a peninsula) extends into Lake Ontario. It’s a great region with unique geography from sandy dunes to fertile land for wine grapes!

As such, PEC – also often called “The County” – is known as another of Ontario’s wine regions! We really like PEC and we’ve spent quite a bit of time exploring the whole region.

That said, there are lots of things to see and do in Prince Edward County . The main towns – Picton and Wellington – offer you shops, cafes (like Beacon Bike and Brew ), restaurants, and more.

You can head for the beach or hike the massive dunes when exploring Sandbanks Provincial Park . It’s a great place in Ontario if you want to try day camping !

Read More: Our Guide to Discovering Sandbanks Provincial Park (+Dunes Trail)

However, the region is best known for its wineries. There are close to 40 wineries – bigger operations and smaller family-run ones. Check out Huff Estates or Sandbanks Estate Winery – famous for their Baco Noir.

We have a post on the best wineries in Prince Edward County (it’s a work in progress as we visit more)!

There are also lots of breweries like Parson’s Brewing Company and Lake on the Mountain Brewing Co . (another of our favourites).

You also can’t forget about The County Cider Company ! We really can’t do the area justice – you have to go and see for yourself. Just remember if you have alcoholic beverages, you shouldn’t be driving (and have a designated driver).

Toronto to Prince Edward County By Car

The best (and only) way to get to and get around the County is by car. There’s just no way around it. The drive from Toronto is pretty easy – just take Highway 401 east, get off in Belleville (or exit #522), and head south into the County.

To head right to Picton, the drive will be about 2 hours and 30 minutes (210 km driving distance) but once you’re there you have the whole region to explore!

Parking will vary but all wineries and breweries have parking plus there’s ample street parking in Picton, Wellington, etc.

Alternatively, if you have a group of people you could look into renting a limo or hiring a taxi for a whole day. If you split the cost, it would make for a more manageable trip – plus then you have a designated driver secured all day!

Toronto to Prince Edward County By Train

You can’t travel to Prince Edward County by train. The best you could do is to get to Belleville on the ViaRail.

Then you’d have to rent a car or get a taxi to get into the County – even then you’d need a direction like Picton or a specific winery.

Barrie + Oro-Medonte

Address for Flying Monkeys Brewery: 107 Dunlop St E, Barrie, ON L4M 1A6, Canada

If you want to spend a day at the beach/another lovely little waterfront, then you should head for Barrie! Barrie is a relatively large city located north of Toronto up on the shores of Lake Simcoe at Kempenfelt Bay.

As a day trip, you wouldn’t need to visit most of the city (it sprawls out quite a bit). You would be perfectly fine heading for the small downtown area by the waterfront (Dunlop Street East).

Here, you’ll find a few shops, restaurants, pubs ( Donaleigh’s Irish Public House ), and even a great brewery – Flying Monkeys – with a nice patio.

At the waterfront, there are numerous parks with walking trails that run for kilometres. Heritage Park is close to downtown and if you walk south, you can find the main one – Centennial Park and Centennial Beach.

If you want to get out on the water, you can rent a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard from the small stands along the shoreline. You can even check out the Spirit Catcher sculpture – and there are stalls for ice cream, too!

If you are heading up to Barrie, you might also be interested in heading a bit further north. Just a bit farther up the highway, you’ll find the township of Oro-Medonte and more for a variety of the areas ski hills/recreation areas!

Specifically, check out Hardwood Hills Ski and Bike – mountain biking, hiking, and disc golf in summer and cross-country skiing in winter.

You might also try Snow Valley Resort , Horseshoe Resort , or Mount St. Louis Moonstone for winter skiing/tubing and some summer activities (Horseshoe is open in summer).

• How to Get to Barrie From Toronto – In Detail
• 25 Things to Do and See in Barrie !

Toronto to Barrie By Car

Barrie is located basically due north of Toronto. As such, the easiest way to get from Toronto to Barrie is by car.

The driving distance is about 100 km and it’ll take about one hour and 30 minutes (depending on traffic) on Highway 400 (the major highway you take all the way there).

As you get close to Barrie, get off at Bayfield Street to head for downtown and the waterfront. There is lots of paid parking once you get downtown or to the waterfront.

If you want to head for any of the ski hills north of the city mentioned above, you need a car. Many are accessible past Barrie on Highway 400 or Highway 11 northbound.

Toronto to Barrie By Train

Depending on the time of day, you could take the GO Train to Barrie but they usually only run at night in this direction (to bring commuters home).

So, to go to Barrie in the morning, you’ll need to take the GO Bus OR a combo of train and bus (see more below). The overall trip would take about one hour and 30 minutes. Here’s the  GO Route Planner for this Toronto-Barrie route .

If you do take the train, you will head for Allandale Waterfront GO Station which is right by the waterfront and a short walk to downtown.

Just so you know: Barrie city transit is included in your GO fare if you get off the train and travel within 30 minutes of getting into Barrie. You can learn more  on the city of Barrie website here .

Address for Allandale GO Station: 24 Essa Road, Barrie, Ontario

Toronto to Barrie By Bus

There are more options for taking the bus to Barrie. As we mentioned above, you can take the GO Bus or Ontario Northland.

To be honest, the Northland is a direct trip whereas you may have to change via the GO Bus so you pick your battle here. You can check for fares and times on Ontario Northland .

Both the GO Bus and the Ontario Northland now leave from the new Union Station Bus Terminal in Toronto at 81 Bay Street. It’s at the corner of Bay St & Lakeshore Blvd.

Whichever you take, all buses end at the same station near the Barrie Waterfront downtown.

Address Barrie Bus Terminal: 24 Maple Avenue Barrie ON L4N 7W4

Gravenhurst + The Muskokas

Address for Sawdust City Brewing: 397 Muskoka Rd N, Gravenhurst, ON P1P 1G3, Canada

If you want your chance at getting a taste of the famous “cottage country” region in Ontario known as the Muskokas, then head to Gravenhurst! This small town just off Highway 11 has plenty of natural beauty to check out for a day.

Nestled up in the bottom of Lake Muskoka, Gravenhurst has a nice little downtown, some historic sites, and a great Wharf area with a boardwalk to check out.

Of course, you can go much higher up into Ontario – but these wouldn’t be day trips. You might be able to check out nearby Bracebridge, but that’s about as far as you’d wanna go in a single day. There are great Muskoka accommodations (like resorts) nearby you could visit for a day.

Once you’re in town, there are lots of great things to do in Gravenhurst . A classic thing to do is to take a cruise on the vintage Muskoka steamships and check out the Discovery Centre to learn about the area.

You might want to visit Gull Lake Rotary Park or Lookout Park overlooking the water. Just be sure to book in advance if you want to cruise because they can sell out in the summer WELL in advance!

Oh, and if you’re passing through downtown Gravenhurst don’t forget to check out Sawdust City Brewing . This brewery does amazing craft beer and has a great venue for tastings and events – we even wrote about our visit to Sawdust City !

Toronto to Gravenhurst By Car

Unsurprisingly, the best way to get to Gravenhurst and explore it is by car. Gravenhurst is located north of Toronto (past Barrie) up Highway 11.

It’s about 2 hours of driving (170 kilometres driving distance) so if you leave in the morning you can get in a whole day of hiking, eating, and enjoying!

Once you get to Gravenhurst, there’s free parking down at the waterfront Wharf area and street parking along the main street through “downtown”. We had no problem finding parking!

Toronto to Gravenhurst By Bus

The Ontario Northland bus does go from Toronto to Gravenhurst around 3 times a day – but the trip takes 2 hours and 50 minutes.

We’d say it’s a great idea but for a day trip you might want that extra hour back so perhaps driving is best. That said, you can see the prices and schedule for Ontario Northland here .

Address for The Bookshelf: 41 Quebec St, Guelph, ON N1H 2T1, Canada

If you are feeling the green vibes and want another option for the country, then you should head to Guelph! This growing farm town is very agriculturally-conscious, and there’s lots to see and do!

We like Guelph quite a bit. It’s got a nice downtown core with restaurants, bars, and plenty of shops.

As for things to do and see, there’s a famous Farmer’s Market on Saturday, a massive Basilica on the hill, a civic museum, The Bookshelf , and more. You can even skate at City Hall in winter!

If you want to connect with nature, you can rent a canoe/kayak on the rivers (and eat ice cream at “ The Boathouse Tearoom “), walk the numerous walking trails through the parks, check out the Arboretum, or head north of the city to Guelph Lake Conservation Area with a beach!

Oh, and Guelph is known for its breweries – so be sure to visit Brothers Brewing right downtown or Royal City Brewing for a taste of some great craft beer!

If you need more Guelph knowledge, we’ve got a bunch of great posts about travelling to and exploring Guelph, Ontario:

• How to Get to Guelph from Toronto – All Ways in Detail
• 21 Things to Do and See in Guelph
• Awesome Pubs and Bars in Guelph

Toronto to Guelph By Car

As with most places on this list, it’s easiest/best to get to Guelph by car for a day trip. Guelph is located west (and a bit south) of Toronto. Just take Highway 401 for about 1 hour and 20 minutes (traffic depending).

It’s about 90 kilometres driving distance so not too far – and it’s an easy one. You then take Highway 46 (which is exit #299). This turns into Gordon Street and you’ll drive right downtown Guelph.

Once downtown, there are lots of places to park whether you’re looking for street parking or parking lots. Parking in the Baker Street lot means you can go eat at Baker Street Station Pub which is a quick walk from downtown.

Toronto to Guelph By Train

You actually can get to Guelph by train with ViaRail but it does not work for a day trip there and back.

There are now several train-only (direct, no transfers) trips from Toronto to Guelph one in the morning, then around lunch, then a bunch in the late afternoon (to serve the commuters heading home to Guelph from Toronto).

These train trips take about 1 hour 30 minutes – so a day trip on the GO Train is possible. It’s also cheaper with a Presto Card, FYI.

Also, since weekday and weekend schedules vary slightly, it’s important to check the GO Transit Schedule ahead of time to know how and when you are travelling.

Toronto to Guelph By Bus

As for the bus, you could theoretically take the GO Bus the whole way if you left early in the morning.

Otherwise, you’d have to take the GO train/bus combo later in the morning (you can check the GO Transit Schedule ) to make it worth your time for a day trip.

Grand River + Cambridge

Address for Downtown Cambridge: 25 Queens Square, Cambridge, ON, Canada

If you want more of a hidden gem day trip from Toronto, you might consider heading to Cambridge, Ontario!

Once known as Galt, this smaller city close to Kitchener is located right on the Grand River – an important feature in Ontario’s landscape and history. The city is made up of smaller towns like Preston, Hespeler, and Galt/West Galt – each with its unique charm.

There are lots of things to do in the Cambridge area such as shop/cafe/pub hop, check out the McDougall Cottage Historic Site, or just simply wander the Grand.

The historic buildings (Central Presbyterian Church, seen above) make for lovely photographs. There are many pathways along parts of the river that cut through tranquil parks and green spaces.

Outside the city centre (this is where a car comes in), there are things like the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory, Shade’s Mills Conservation Area, and Chicopee Resort for winter tubing and summer fun, too!

Eric has played disc golf at Chicopee in the summer and it was an absolute blast!

One of the top activities along the Grand River is river tubing in the summer. There are a few places you can do it but Cambridge is certainly a popular location. Tubing the Grand launches north of the city centre just upriver!

Toronto to Cambridge By Car

No surprise, but it’s best to head to Cambridge in a car. The city is located to the west and a little south of Toronto (south of Guelph). Just take Highway 401 westbound out of the city.

You can then take exit #286 or #282 and head south into Cambridge. 282 takes you RIGHT into downtown along the river.

The total driving distance is about 100 km and 1 hour (of course, traffic-depending). Once you get there, there’s street parking and a handful of lots to park in.

Toronto to Cambridge By Bus

Since Greyhound shut down its routes in Canada in 2021, there is, unfortunately, no bus option between these two cities.

Kawartha Lakes

Maps Location for Lindsay

One more day trip to the other famous Ontario Cottage region doesn’t hurt, right? Then you may want to check out Kawartha Lakes!

Kawartha Lakes is an actual place, the Kawartha Lakes are a grouping of lakes, and the “Kawarthas” is the name that has come to represent this area of unique rocky landscape and lakes!

The region is known to include towns like Bobcaygeon (also the name of a famous song by the Tragically Hip – a Canadian band), Lindsay, and Buckhorn, and features popular lakes like Stoney and Sturgeon.

There are a few parks in the area – such as Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park and Petroglyphs Provincial Park but they are farther to the east.

Heading more south (close to Campbellford) you’ll find the Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge on the Trent-Severn Waterway. This is a great stop if you want another short walk and amazing photos!

Oh, and don’t forget to eat some Kawartha Dairy ice cream. You can find it all over Ontario but it bears the name of the famous region being founded in Bobcaygeon!

Toronto to Kawartha Lakes By Car

Given the large nature of the area, this day trip is best done by car. Luckily, there are a few ways to get to the area – and it depends on where you are heading in the region.

To drive to Bobcaygeon, for example, you’ll head to the northeast of Toronto for about 2 hours (traffic depending) on Highway 401 to Highway 115 then to Highway 35.

The distance is about 160 kilometres so it’s not too long but it’ll certainly be a bit of a trek. You will want to start in the morning to not waste the day.

Milton Conservation Areas

Address for Rattlesnake Point CA: 7200 Appleby Line, Milton, ON L9E 0M9, Canada

If you want an area that is jam-packed with outdoor adventure in all seasons, you should head for Milton, Ontario!

If you’re a local, you might be laughing, but hear us out. Milton is home to some top conservation areas with excellent trails for hiking, snowshoeing, and scenic views.

The reason Milton has such a great outdoor scene is because of the Niagara Escarpment. It runs along the edge of town (and includes part of the Bruce Trail) and shapes the landscape.

As such, there are three places in particular that – if you head out to Milton – you should check out: Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area , Kelso Conservation Area , and Crawford Lake Conservation Area .

In the summer season, these places can get pretty busy (because of the stunning views/vantage points from the high cliffs).

So if you plan on being a day-tripper from Toronto, be sure to be safe when you visit and be flexible enough to check out another area. If you go in the winter, bring your skis and/or snowshoes to make the most of the trails!

Toronto to Milton By Car

Exploring the Milton/Halton area is easiest by car – especially if you plan on visiting more than one place while out for the day.

The drive to Milton is pretty easy – you just take Highway 401 west out of Toronto and head for exit #320. All three areas above can be found from this exit.

The drive will take about an hour (for about 70 km driving distance) but since you are going against commuter traffic in the morning and afternoon you might be spared super stuffy traffic in/out of the west end. Good luck!

Toronto to Milton By Train/Bus

Milton has a GO Station in the town centre that is serviced by GO Bus and Train – the issue is much like the day trip to Barrie: if you wanted to go to Milton in the morning, the train would be coming against you to bring commuters to work. That said, you can still have a look at the GO Transit website .

Cobourg Beach + Cobourg

Address for Cobourg Beach: 138 Division St, Cobourg, ON K9A 3P3, Canada

If you haven’t had enough of beaches – and you don’t want to drive to get to one – then you have one more potential option: heading to Cobourg, Ontario!

This small town on Lake Ontario boasts one of the best beaches in the province – and it’s right downtown close to the centre!

Cobourg Beach is a public beach with lots of amenities and green space, food options nearby, a splash pad for kids, and there are even camping grounds.

A highlight is that there are walking trails along the water that extend along the shoreline – so there’s more to do than just visiting the beach.

As for Cobourg itself, the downtown core is small but full of little shops, cafes, places to eat, bars, an art gallery, and more! Oh, and don’t forget to photograph the lighthouse if you go. It’s quite nice down by the Harbour!

Toronto to Cobourg By Car

The best option (as per usual) is to drive to Cobourg. From Toronto, you head east on Highway 401 for about 1 hour and 30 minutes (120 km driving distance).

Take exit #472 and head south to the water. Once you get there, you can find parking on the street or in a paid lot.

Toronto to Cobourg By Train

You actually could take the ViaRail train to the beach (there is no GO service). Cobourg has a ViaRail station not too far from downtown. The trip will take an hour each way.

The good news is you could do it – leave in the morning and return to Union at night. The potential bad news is for the price you could rent a car and pay for a tank of gas for cheaper (season-dependent).

In any case, it’s an option! You can check for times and prices at the ViaRail website .

Buffalo, USA

Address for City Hall: 65 Niagara Square, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States

If you’re looking for day trips to the USA from Toronto, Buffalo, New York is probably your best bet! Buffalo is surprisingly not far from Toronto – making it a popular spot for cross-border shopping.

Once you get downtown, you can check out the Canalside area, the Naval and Military Park, the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site, and more!

Mind you, this is an international border so you will need to bring ID with you to go there and back!

Toronto to Buffalo By Car

Being located across the border and south of Niagara Falls, driving to Buffalo is a good option – but you should get a head start in the morning.

From Toronto, you take our friend the QEW/Highway 403 towards Hamilton and then head for Niagara Falls.

You can then choose: cross into the USA at Niagara Falls and the Rainbow Bridge OR drive south to Fort Erie and cross on the Peace Bridge (closer to actual Buffalo)!

The trip will take anywhere from 2 to 3 hours (about 170 km driving distance). The thing is, you pass through so many areas that MAY slow you down that it’s just hard to nail down an exact time.

Toronto to Buffalo By Bus

Luckily, because it’s a popular city, you can take both the Greyhound, Megabus, or FlixBus to Buffalo. Yes, Greyhound shut down Canadian operations in 2021 but only routes in Canada – they still run cross-border Toronto to Buffalo.

The Megabus, FlixBus, and Greyhound all leave from the new Union Station Bus Terminal located at 81 Bay Street Union Bus Terminal.

As for time, Greyhound can do it in about 3 hours one way (some slightly more, some slightly less). It depends on the day of travel.

You can check schedules and prices with Greyhound , FlixBus , or the Megabus . All buses arrive at the same station.

Address for Buffalo Downtown Terminal: 181 Ellicott St, Buffalo, NY 14203, United States

Related Articles

If you’re planning on visiting Toronto , we’ve got a ton of knowledge for you:

• 27 Things to Do and See in Toronto
• Where to Stay in Toronto: A Neighbourhood + Hotel Guide
• A Perfect Day in Toronto Itinerary
• Our Favourite Toronto Coffee Shops in Toronto
• The Best Ice Cream Spots In Toronto
• Our Favourite Bars in Bars and Pubs in Downtown Toronto

And there you have it – a rundown of some of the best day trips from Toronto.

Of course, there are a handful more places to check out and dozens of single attractions, but we think we’ve rounded up the best trips to keep you busy for a full day! Let us know where you end up – we’d love to hear it!

As always, Keep Exploring, eh? -E&L

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Eric Wychopen

Hi, we're Eric and Lisa - an Ontario-born Canadian and a German! After settling in Ontario together, we realized that there is lots more to explore in this beautiful Canadian province! On Ontario Away, we as well as local contributors cover everything from cities and hikes to wineries, attractions, accommodations, and more.

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17 Exciting Things to do in Moscow

Written By: Linda Voltaire

Updated On: December 21, 2022

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Best Things to do in Moscow, Russia

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

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

Attractions in Moscow

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

1. The Red Square, Kremlin & Surrounding Area

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

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

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

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

2. Bolshoi Theatre

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

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

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

3. Luxury Shopping at GUM and TSUM

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

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

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

4. Christ the Savior Cathedral

A newer addition to the gorgeous Moscovite cathedrals and my grandeur neighbor during my years in the city Don’t let the young age of this building fool you. After the perestroika in the early 90s, the newly revived Russian Orthodox Church received permission to build a cathedral on this site. They did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church.

The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes as tall as the skies in bright gold and gorgeous paintings and decor! Bring a shawl to cover your hair to adjust to the local tradition.

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

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

5. Gorky Park

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

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

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

6. River Cruising

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

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

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

7. Metro Hopping

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

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

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

8. Arbatskaya & Artsy Moscow

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

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings hosts the main building of the Moscow State University, one of the most prestigious colleges in Russia – and the one with the best view.

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

10. Russian Market

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

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

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

Off The Beaten Track Moscow

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

11. Patriarshiye Prudy

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

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

12. ArtPlay

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

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

13. Shopping Local Designs

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

14. Moscow City

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

Wine, Dine, and Party in Moscow

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

15. Where to Eat in Moscow

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

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

More Dining Options

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

16. Rooftopping

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

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

17. Moscow by Night

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

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

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

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

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Travel Planning Resources

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

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

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

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

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

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About Linda Voltaire

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Your article is good and meaningful .

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

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

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

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

that looks like quite a beautiful place. 🙂

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• Russia Circle Trip: 20 Places To Visit In Moscow And St. Petersburg In 2024

18 Jan 2023

Comprising of palaces, monasteries, cathedrals, museum’s, parks, hills, towers, and galleries, travelers must include these places to visit in Moscow and St. Petersburg in their itinerary for a complete travel experience. Taking you through its modern culture, ancient traditions, and rich historical past, these places to see in Moscow are not just interesting, but are beyond magical.

20 Places To Visit In Moscow And St. Petersburg

Here is a list of places to explore in the beautiful city of Moscow and St. Petersburg on your trip that you might not want to miss. Keep scrolling down and read along:

• Hermitage Museum
• Krestovsky Stadium
• Peterhof Palace
• Pushkin Museum
• Kolomenskoye
• Novospassky Monastery
• Kremlin Armoury
• Sparrow Hills
• Cathedral Of The Archangel
• Diamond Fund
• Losiny Ostrov National Park
• Ostankino Tower
• Grand Kremlin Palace
• Bolshoi Theatre
• Memorial Museum Of Cosmonautics
• Saint Basil’s Cathedral
• Moscow Kremlin

20. Hermitage Museum

Hermitage Museum at St Petersburg is the second-largest art museum in the world, after The Louvre in Paris, France. The establishment was founded in 1764 by Empress Catherine the Great. From Egyptian antiquities, Renaissance art, Dutch and Flemish Baroque art to Neoclassical, Impressionist, Post-Impressionist and modern European fine art – Hermitage Museum artworks are any art-enthusiast’s paradise.

Location: Palace Square, 2, Sankt-Peterburg, Russia, 190000 Timings: 10:30 am – 6:00 pm (Monday closed)

19. Krestovsky Stadium

Named after Sergey Kirov, the stadium was also home to the Zenit Football Club for certain periods in the 1900’s. The Fifa Confederations Cup took place in the Krestovsky Stadium, with several group matches and the final between Germany and Chile taking place at the stadium. The 2018 Fifa World Cup also took place there, when Russia hosted the competition.

Location: Futbol’naya Alleya, 1, Sankt-Peterburg, Russia, 197110 Timings: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm

18. Peterhof Palace

One of the most important sites of cultural importance in Russia is the Peterhof Palace. It is a series of palaces and gardens which are located in Peterhof, St Petersburg. One of the best features of the area that catches the eyes of the many tourists who come to visit the area is a 16-metre high cliff. One of the best features of the Palace is the Chesma Hall. The Hall is decorated with painting from the Battle of Chesma, where Russia won a naval victory during the Russo-Turkish war.

Location: Razvodnaya Ulitsa, 2, Sankt-Peterburg, Russia Timings: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm

17. Pushkin Museum

Image Source

If you want to visit one of the best tourist places in Moscow to explore a wide selection of European masterpieces, then you must visit the Pushkin Museum. Here, you can explore The museum is divided into three sections which cover the themes: Byzantine art, the Renaissance, and the Dutch Golden Age. For a collection donated by individuals, you can also visit the Museum of Private Collections.

Location: Ulitsa Volkhonka, 12, Moskva, Russia, 119019 Timings: 11:00 am – 8:00 pm

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

16. Kolomenskoye

Nestled just a few kilometers outside of the city center, Kolomenskoye was once a royal estate which is now converted into a museum-reserve. Overlooking the Moskva River, you will get to gain a plethora of history from this museum. You can take a stroll in the garden at this museum which is one of the top places to visit in Moscow, Russia.

Location: Andropova Ave, 39, Moskva, Russia, 115487 Timings: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm

15. Novospassky Monastery

With attractions like Novospassky Monastery, there is no need to worry as to what to see in Moscow . Dating back to the times of the 14th century, Novospassky Monastery happens to be the first monastery established in the heart of Moscow. Located in the southeastern region, it is one of the must-visit places in Moscow.

Location: Krest’yanskaya Ploshchad’, 10, Moskva, Russia, 115172

Suggested Read: Russia Plans To Open A Luxury Hotel In Space By 2022 Since Earth Is Too Mainstream!

14. Kremlin Armoury

Kremlin Armoury is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Moscow which is located within the premises of Moscow Kremlin. A treasure house in the heart of Moscow, Kremlin Armoury is a unique museum that has put up about 4000 unique and precious belongings from 1851 on display.

Location: The Moscow Kremlin, Moskva, Russia, 125009 Timings: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM (Closed on all public holidays)

Suggested Read: 8 Cities With Best Russia Nightlife; Say It Aloud, “Lights, Vodka, & Russians!”

13. Sparrow Hills

Much famed as the Lenin Hills until 1999, it is a must for every traveler to include a visit to the Sparrow Hills on their Moscow city tour . Standing tall at an elevation of 220 meters, it is the highest viewpoints in the city that rises above the Moskva River. Get atop the hills to enjoy breathtaking views of the Moscow skyline.

Location: Moscow, Russia, 119270

Suggested Read: 15 Interesting Things To Do In Moscow: Trekking, Opera, And More

12. Cathedral Of The Archangel

Perched in between the attractions of Ivan the Great Bell Tower and the great Great Kremlin Palace, this orthodox cathedral in the heart of Moscow and the mighty Archangel Michael is the patron saint of the cathedral. Reflecting the charm of the Italian Renaissance architectural style, this cathedral is built on the site of the original structure which dates back to 1333.

Location: Cathedral Square, Moscow Kremlin, Moscow, Russia, 103073 Timings: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM (Closed on all public holidays)

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

10. Diamond Fund

Image Credit: Shakko for wikipedia

A mine of precious stones, jewelry, Diamond Fund is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Moscow for those whose love for diamonds is limitless. Established by Emperor Peter I of Russia in the year of 1719, this gem of a place resides within the premises of the famous Moscow Kremlin.

Location: Proyezd Proyektiruyemyy 813, Moskva, Russia, 125009 Timings: Friday to Wednesday – 10 AM to 1 PM, and 2 PM to 5:20 PM (Closed on Thursdays)

9. Losiny Ostrov National Park

Of all the Moscow points of interest , Losiny Ostrov National Park offers a perfect amalgamation of nature and wildlife. Often compared to the Pedra Branca State Park in Rio de Janeiro, and the Table Mountain National Park of Cape Town, in terms of its size and grandeur, it is the first-ever national park of the Russian capital wherein one can witness many species of birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles.

Location: Poperechny Prosek, 1G, Moscow 107014, Russia

Suggested Read: Trans Siberian Railway: World’s Longest Rail Network That Crosses 8 Time Zones Across 9300 Kms!

8. Ostankino Tower

Standing tall at a height of 1,772 feet, Ostankino Tower is famous for being the only free-standing structure in the whole of Europe. Apart from being the eleventh high-rising structures of the world, the observation deck at Ostankino Tower is the place to be for those who wish to relish the best views of Moscow’s skyline.

Location: Akademika Koroleva St, 15, Moskva, Russia, 127427 Timings: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 9 PM

7. Grand Kremlin Palace

Established in the year of 1849, Great or Grand Kremlin Palace is one of those places to visit in Moscow that will leave you beyond astonished. Constructed beautifully and with a great eye for detail, the intricate decor inside the Grand Kremlin Palace reflects the pure charm of the Revival architecture in Russian that blends perfectly with the architectural style of Byzantine Revival.

Location: Moscow Kremlin, Moscow 103073, Russia

Suggested Read: 19 Cool And Unusual Things To Do In Russia That You’ve Never Heard Before!

Image Courtesy: publicdomainpictures.net

What Pragati Maidan is to Delhi, VDNKh is for Moscow. Being one of the popular Moscow sightseeing places , VDNKh or Vystavka Dostizheniy Narodnogo Khozyaystva is a grand trade and exhibition center in Moscow that assures the travelers an experience like none other. Home to numerous palaces, fountains, architectural marvels, arches, and pavilions, there will never be a dull moment on your visit to VDNKh during your trip to Moscow .

Location: Prospekt Mira, 119, Moskva, Russia, 129223 Timings: Monday to Sunday – 24 Hours

5. Bolshoi Theatre

Image Credit: DmitriyGuryanov for wikipedia

For the lovers of art, and culture, Bolshoi Theatre is the place to be for them to witness one of the finest live performances of opera and ballet performances. Famous for featuring a neoclassical facade, Bolshoi Theatre is one of the renowned landmarks of the city.

Location: Theatre Square, 1, Moskva, Russia, 125009

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

4. Memorial Museum Of Cosmonautics

Striking, unique, and aiming to touch the sky, the Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is one of the best Moscow tourist sites which the travelers cannot afford to miss. Educating the visitors about the significant part of Russia’s history in the domain of space, it is a strict no-no to miss out on visiting the Museum of Cosmonautics when in the city.

Location: Prospekt Mira, 111, Moskva, Russia, 129223 Timings: Thursdays & Saturdays – 10 AM to 9 PM; Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, & Sundays – 10 AM to 7 PM; Closed on Mondays

3. Saint Basil’s Cathedral

Considered to be one of the top places to visit in Moscow , Saint Basil’s Cathedral is also famed as the Cathedral of Vasily the Blessed amongst the locals. Being one of the crucial landmarks of Moscow located in the heart of Red Square, the cathedral dates back to the times of 16th century. Serving as a visual treat to the travelers, it happens to be one of the most-captured attractions in Moscow.

Location: Krasnaya Square, 2, Moscow 109012, Russia

Suggested Read: The List Of Top 10 Places Travelers Are Eager To Visit Is Out!

2. Red Square

Separating the royal citadel of Kremlin from the ancient merchant quarter of Kitai-gorod, Red Square is one of the most interesting places in Moscow . Bearing the weight of Russia’s history to a great extent, Red Square serves not just as an attraction but as the heart, soul, and symbol of the whole country.

Location: Krasnaya Ploshchad, Moscow, Russia

1. Moscow Kremlin

If all the attractions serve as members of the city, then Moscow Kremlin serves as the home in which all these tourist sites reside. Encompassing of almost all the famous sightseeing attractions, the royal residence of the President of Russia, the Moscow Kremlin is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Moscow . Offering breathtaking views of River Moskva and located at the heart of the city, it is a must for everyone to explore this fortified complex once in their lifetime.

Location: Moscow, Russia, 103073 Timings: Friday to Wednesday – 10 AM to 5 PM; Closed on Thursday

How To Get There

Air Astana has resumed daily operations, and with the launch of 2 additional flights starting 2nd September 2019, they will now be operating 11 times a week offering even more onward connections. You can now make the most of this special offer by Air Astana and plan your trip to the biggest metropolitan city of Kazakhstan. Transit passengers can also visit Nur – Sultan and Almaty hassle – free in their journey with Kazakhstan’s 72-hour transit visa-free regime . You can now also apply for an e-visa before traveling to Kazakhstan. The process is very simple!

Explore Two Countries In One Trip

There is good news for all transiting passengers. With Air Astana’s 1$ Stopover Holiday Package, you can enjoy a one-night stay in Almaty or Astana starting at just 1$ for the first night. Simply pay online and you will receive instant confirmation for your Stopover Holiday Package with Air Astana . The package includes a one-night stay in 3-4 star hotel, buffet breakfast, and airport transfers. What more could you possibly need!

Further Read: 101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30

While these are some of the famous places to visit in Moscow and St.Petersburg, this is just the beginning of what this incredible city has to offer. Hence, make sure you include these Moscow attractions and St. Petersburg sights to your bucket list while you gear up to fulfill your dream on your sojourn to Russia !

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Moscow

What is the best time to visit Moscow?

April to August happens to be the best time to visit Moscow when the summer season lets the tourists make the most of their journey.

What is that one experience that one must not miss out when planning a trip to Russia?

A ride on the Trans-Siberian Railway that crosses eight time zones across 9300 kms is one of the most unique experiences that one should not miss out on their trip to Moscow!

What are some of the must-visit attractions in Moscow?

Moscow Kremlin, Saint Basil’s Cathedral, Red Square, and Bolshoi Theatre are some of the famous must visit attractions in Moscow.

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15 Fantastic and Easy Day Trips From Moscow

Is the hustle and bustle of Moscow starting to wear you down? No worries. There are multiple great day trips from Moscow that will let you see a different side of Russia that you won’t find in the metropolitan area. Each day trip I’ve listed below can easily be done by train from Moscow, and there are trains every day of the week.

The area surrounding Moscow is rich in cultural attractions and natural beauty. By traveling only a short distance, one feels far away from the crowds, and lines of the sprawling Russian capital. Since Russia is undoubtedly an expansive country it may take from half an hour to two hours to reach some of the landmarks on this list (by train or car) from the Moscow city center.

You can escape to the picturesque Russian countryside, visit war memorials, battlefields, admire onion-domed churches, and get insight into the local way of life. Easy day trips from Moscow include the incomparable white-stone Trinity Cathedral in Sergiyev Posad, the spectacular Cathedral of the Assumption in Dmitrov, and the Russian military aircraft in Monino. For those who love rural tranquility, Suzdal and Vladimir are a must-see. History buffs will appreciate the Patriotic War of 1812 reenactment that took place in Borodino on the first weekend of September.

Without further ado, here are 15 best day trips from Moscow that are well worth your attention.

The Best Day Trips from Moscow

There’s a reason Moscow is one of Europe’s most enigmatic destinations. It’s got culture, class, food, history, and more, but even better, is that it is the country’s main transport hub with so many attractions within a day trip from Moscow. While you can definitely spend days or even weeks in Moscow, it can, of course, be done in just one week. What can you do in Moscow in seven days ? Well, you can do a lot if you know how to plan a trip to a place you know so little about.

If you’re ready to get out of the city a bit and soak up the culture, fresh air, and enchanting architecture, I’ve rounded up my favorite day trips outside of Moscow. I often get asked: What are the best cities to visit in Russia? And these are places that I’ve been and loved.

My Favorite Easy Day Trips from Moscow:

Dmitrov Kolomna Zvenigorod Sergiyev Posad Yaroslavl Arkhangelskoye Estate Vladimir Suzdal Korolev Borodino Patriot Park in Kubinka Melikhovo Gorki Leninskie Kaluga Monino

1. Day Trip to Dmitrov from Moscow

Dmitrov may not be as popular as other cities in Russia, but the fact that the city was founded only 7 years earlier than Moscow makes for a great day trip. This small city some 90 kilometers from Moscow is particularly beautiful in the summer. As you walk the streets you can see sparkling fountains, charming centuries-old buildings, yachts and boats transiting through the canal and, of course, the Museum-Reserve Dmitrov Kremlin.

The Kremlin (castle) is the city’s main draw. The 10m high and about 1km long earthen rampart remained behind the wooden wall and gives an idea of how the castle looked like 400 years ago. The oldest surviving building on the Kremlin grounds is the 16th-century Assumption Cathedral with a unique five-tier iconostasis.

Not far from the Kremlin there is a compact 15th-century Borisoglebsky convent. Its main building – the 16th-century Cathedral of Sts. Boris and Gleb is open to the visitors only for services of worship. In the 1930s in the convent housed a labor camp, which contained the builders of the Canal named after Moscow.

Getting There: Dmitrov sits an easy hour and sixteen minutes by train from Savyelovskiy Rail Terminal. This cheap day trip from Moscow is a great chance to soak up the historic charm to be found in Moscow Oblast.

2. Day Trip to Kolomna from Moscow

Situated to the south-east of Moscow, Kolomna is a beautiful port city on the Oka River. This is one of the oldest Russian cities in the region. So you can discover the old history in museums and monasteries. Interestingly, the city was a site for important weapon factories under the Soviet Union. Although it was opened up in 1994 Kolomna is not as popular as other day-trip destinations in the region.

Nevertheless, it is a great place to visit with friends and family where you can explore the 15th-century Kremlin made of red brick, try incredibly sweet traditional pastila (marshmallow), and visit some of the cute little churches and 19th-century mansions.

Getting There: Take the express train (commuter line train) from the Kazansky rail terminal to Golutvin station. The trip lasts one hour and forty minutes.

3. Day Trip to Zvenigorod from Moscow

This one is usually a given due to its proximity to and ease of transport from Moscow. It’s one of the easiest day trips from Moscow by train. You can easily hop on the train from the city and land right in the town of Zvenigorod where you can visit the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery and sample the sparkly and refreshing kvass, a Russian specialty beverage that’s enjoyed in the summer months.

Zvenigorod is an adorable little town just under an hour away from the Moscow city and is an amazing place to visit as it will give a relaxing break from the hectic life of Moscow. Check this day trip if you don’t feel like planning.

If you have a sweet tooth, spend some time in the quirky Museum of Russian Desserts, where you can indulge in uniquely delicious treats and explore the intersection of food and culture.

Then you may want to pay the Zvenigorod Museum of History, Architecture, and Art a visit. The museum’s exposition is located on the territory of the Savvino-Storozhevsky monastery, or rather, in the 17th-century Tsaritsyny chambers, built for the wife of Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich. Stroll through the museum halls to view the permanent exhibitions, which offer insights into various aspects of Russian history. The intricate museum’s building is adorned with a decorative porch, complex patterned elements, and looks very impressive in general.

4. Day Trip to Sergiyev Posad from Moscow

If you’re looking for cheap day trips from Moscow, Sergiyev Posad is a good choice at just a few dollar train ride away. Known as a major center of pilgrimage and home to one of the largest Russian Orthodox Monastery which has been here for hundreds of years, Sergiyev Posad is a fun day trip from Moscow and can be combined with Abramtsevo Museum Estate. As the only town in Moscow Region which is included in the Golden Ring of Russian cities, Sergiyev Posad is an incredible destination for a day trip from Moscow that packs UNESCO-protected Trinity Sergius Lavra, great museums, and gorgeous architecture into one day.

Make sure you see the six-pillared Assumption Cathedral that was commissioned by Ivan the Terrible in mid-16th-century and go inside to marvel at the impressive iconostasis that features Simon Ushakov’s masterpiece, the icon of Last Supper. Enjoy a delicious lamb steak with wheat kasha, Ukha fish soup, or hand-made dumplings as you learn a lot about religious and cultural history.

Getting There: Known for its small-town charm and welcoming feel, you can get to Sergiyev Posad by train, by bus, or by car. Trains depart from Yaroslavsky Rail Terminal every thirty minutes, and the trip lasts about an hour and a half. Alternatively, you can hop on a bus at the ‘VDNKh’ metro station. A bus trip to Sergiyev Posad takes two hours on average but can be reached in 90 minutes depending on traffic. If you go by car expect to spend about an hour and a half attempting to traverse the congested Yaroslavskoye highway.

5. Day Trip to Yaroslavl from Moscow

Going from Moscow to Yaroslavl may seem like a really long day trip, but honestly, if you take the comfortable train, it only takes about four hours to reach the city, so making a Yaroslavl day trip is totally doable. Although I do recommend much more than one day in Yaroslavl, especially if it’s your first time.

Cultural tourists visiting Yaroslavl should start their exploration by strolling the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A spacious 100-hectare area enclosed by Sobinova and Republican streets is home to most popular attractions – the 17th-century Church of Elijah the Prophet that survived almost exactly in its original form, and in contrast to it, the white stone Assumption Cathedral, restored in the 2000s.

If you walk a bit further passing the Holy Trinity sculpture and city’s foundation stone, you will find yourself at Strelka, a park on the cape, which offers panoramic views of the spot at the confluence of Volga and Kotorosl rivers. On the way back, there is a pleasant walk along the picturesque Volga embankment to the Governor’s Garden with shadowy alleys and an open-air Sculpture museum.

Getting There: Yaroslavl is about 280 km (173 miles) northeast of Moscow, so the best way to get there is to take a morning train from Yaroslavskiy Rail Terminal. A tour is also a great way to see the Yaroslavl without having to worry about driving or searching for trains. You can book a tour here.

6. Day Trip to Arkhangelskoye Estate from Moscow

Situated on the outskirts of Moscow and dates back to the late 18th-century, Arkhangelskoye Estate was the domain of the nobility for over a century until the Russian Revolution swept people who owned the estate out of the country. The estate was turned into a museum, which it remains today.

The Arkhangelskoye Estate Museum holds the largest rare-book collection. The exhibition also includes old manuscripts, historical documents, photos from the past, a vast collection of sculpture, paintings, engravings, and exceptional examples of decorative art. These art objects once belonged to Prince Nikolai Yusupov, the former owner of the estate.

Arkhangelskoye Estate is often referred to as the Russian version of Versailles because of the intricately manicured garden and beautiful 18th-century park. Famous Russian writers and poets such as Pushkin, Herzen, Mayakovsky loved to spend their free time here making long excursions in the surrounding area. Arkhangelskoye is a perfect place to appreciate the terraces decorated by delightful statues, exquisite vases, and busts.

Visitors can take tours, which introduce them to vibrant examples of Russian art and culture.

Getting There: To reach the estate it’s best to take a bus or a privately-owned minibus that departs from Tushinskaya metro station.

7. Day Trip to Vladimir from Moscow

Situated only two hours east of Moscow, Vladimir is absolutely one of the best places to visit near Moscow for a day trip. This splendid city dates back to the 12th century and has a very rich history. If magnificent Orthodox cathedrals and traditional white-stone architecture entice you, then this place is perfect for a day trip with your significant other.

First things first, you need to see the Golden Gate, which indicates the entrance into the old town. This 12th-century medieval masterpiece of military architecture is associated not only with Vladimir but with the Golden Ring tourist route itself. At the top of the gate, where once was the Church of the Deposition of the Robe, there is the Museum of Weapons. Great looking arrowheads and spear points date back to the Grand Principality of Vladimir, while the exhibition in an impressively majestic setting features a number of Batu-Khan related artifacts.

There’s a variety of attractions to put on your must-see list: the Old Believers Trinity Church right behind it, the Cathedral of St Demetrius, and Dormition (Uspensky) Cathedral. If you plan on shopping for souvenirs like birch-bark masterpieces of Kunov’s masters, drawings, carving, embossing, figures of people and animals, stop by the Lacquer Miniature, the Museum of Crystal, and the Gingerbread Museum. Many of the local attractions were added to UNESCO’s list of World Heritage sites.

Getting There: The best way to visit this area is to catch an early train from Moscow and book a full-day tour of Vladimir in advance. This one includes the town of Suzdal as well.

8. Day Trip to Suzdal from Moscow

This gem of a little medieval town perched on a hill just a 30-minute ride from Vladimir is one of those places I’ve visited and could move there permanently and be happy! It’s a charming little piece of history that also has a Kremlin and visiting it feels like stepping back in time. if you’re a culture enthusiast you’ll be glad to know there are numerous churches, five monasteries, including Spaso-Yevfimiev Monastery in Suzdal. Check them out if you want to get a real taste of the country!

pend some time shopping at the Torgovaya ploshchad (Market Square), where you can buy baskets made of birch bark, ceramic handmade plates, honey or souvenirs and, of course, grab some afternoon tea!

Getting There: Trains leave regularly from Moscow’s Kurskiy Rail Terminal to Vladimir where you can hop on a bus to Suzdal. You can also take a bus from Moscow. In this case, it might take longer and you’ll probably encounter infamous traffic jams. If you go by express train the trip takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. There are slower trains of course, but I’d recommend going with the fast one and save a lot of time!

9. Day Trip to Korolev from Moscow

Located some 30 kilometers northeast of Moscow, Korolev has become arguably the most important space research center with skilled workers from across the Soviet Union who came here to expand the space program.

It became a leading institute dedicated to aerospace research in the country. Today, that tendency can still be clearly seen on the streets and in the buildings. When the Soviet Union collapsed, the city retained its status as the headquarters of Russia’s space surveillance network and now it hosts the Russian Mission Control Center, an analogue of the American Mission Control Center at NASA’s Space Center in Houston.

If you want to learn more about Mission Control Center and the former Russian Mir space station, book a tour with a knowledgeable guide who can clearly tell the history of this place.

If you’re not into space exploration there is also a Memorial Apartment Museum of Marina Tsvetaeva in Bolshevo. With a picturesque park next to the museum, it’s a great place for walking in the fresh air. The highlight of the park is memorial stones with quotes from Tsvetaeva’s poems.

Getting There: I’d recommend going by train. Catch one at Yaroslavskiy Rail Terminal that departs every 30 minutes to reach Bolshevo station.

10. Day Trip to Borodino from Moscow

The historic Battle of Borodino on September 7, 1812, took place just outside the small village of Borodino, about 140 km west of Moscow, and about 15 km from the nearest town of Mozhaysk. Although the French won the Battle of Borodino and went to capture Moscow, it was one of the bloodiest battles of the pre-twentieth-century that is also predetermined Napoleon’s defeat.

While it was a battlefield back then, not much remains today. It’s mostly a green and grassy field now with a few monuments of military honor, architectural objects dated back to 19th and 20th century, and fortification facilities scattered throughout the area. The largest of these is the 27-meter high obelisk located right at the heart of the former battlefield.

Every year the military and patriotic festival and theatrical performance take place in Borodino. Early September is considered to be the best for visiting. But if you just want to feel the spirit of the battle, it’s better to go at any other time of the year.

Getting there: Hop on a train from the Belorussky rail terminal, disembark in Mozhaysk, and then take a bus to the museum. The whole travel time is about 2 hours.

11. Day Trip to Patriot Park in Kubinka from Moscow

Once a Red Army tank training ground, now it’s a military Disneyland with history, structure, guns, and armored vehicles! The tank museum originally housed one of the world’s largest and rarest collections of tanks. In 2016 they combined the training grounds with the newly-created Patriot Park. Since then, some of the notable and rare items have been moved to the Patriot Park site, so you may want to combine both sites into one tour (only about 20 minutes apart).

The exhibition grounds include some very rare specimens that are must-see for any military enthusiasts out there. The staff is friendly, helpful and kind, while the museum has a small shop. As this site is part of an operating military base, they may ask you to show your passport, or provide them with a photocopy of the front pages. There are vending machines for snacks and drinks, and there are bathroom facilities. There’s plenty to see, so I recommend setting aside an entire day!

Getting there: Situated halfway between Borodino and Moscow, the best way to reach Patriot Park in Kubinka is by car. Alternatively, if you don’t want to rent one, consider car-sharing apps like Gett or UBER. The price of ride-sharing services is cheap enough to make them a viable proposition for choosing them.

12. Day Trip to Melikhovo from Moscow

Located some 80 km from Moscow, Melikhovo is one of the most important museums dedicated to Anton Pavlovich Chekhov. This renowned Russian writer and playwright acquired Melikhovo in 1892. He lived there with his parents and close relatives for 7 years before moving to the Crimea in 1899. Melikhovo is where he wrote his plays “The Man in the Case” and “The Seagull”.

The estate faded into oblivion right after the Revolution but in 1939 Anton Chekhov’s sister Maria and his nephew established a museum based on Chekhov’s place of living. The museum opened its doors to the public in 1941.

Today museum’s exhibition reveals the legacy of a celebrated writer and shows his path not only as a writer but as a doctor and public figure as well. The collection also features some of the best-known paintings by famous artists like Isaac Levitan and Vasily Polenov, who were Chekhov’s friends. When it comes to fun and educational day trips from Moscow, Melikhovo is a nice place for learning more about Chekov’s life and work.

Getting There: You can reach Melikhovo by train from Kurskiy rail Terminal. Disembark in the town of Chekhov and hop on a minibus that will get to the estate. Alternatively, hop on a bus that departs from the Yuzhnaya metro station.

13. Day Trip to Gorki Leninskie from Moscow

Once the realm of Russian nobles, Gorki Leninskie was turned into Lenin’s museum some 25 years after his death. The estate sits some 30-minute bus ride from the Domodedovskaya metro station and houses Soviet-era memorabilia and Lenin’s memorial flat recently transferred from the Kremlin, as well as his vintage Rolls-Royce.

Most people only associate this place with the name of the first communist leader. In fact, the name of the estate was first mentioned in documents dating back to the 16th-century. Throughout its history, the estate was owned by a number of prominent figures. It’s in fact one of the best museums that holds the country’s finest collection 19th-century furnishings and a unique collection of domestic items owned by nobles. Plus, ancient Vyatichi native tribe or East Slavs who inhabited a part of the Oka basin’s burial mounds and a few notable sculptures are hidden behind the avenues of lime trees in the park.

Getting There: You could, of course, hop on a bus from Domodedovskaya metro station. But it would be much easier just to use UBER or Gett. The estate isn’t that far from the Moscow Circle Road but going there by bus may involve some navigating.

14. Day Trip to Kaluga from Moscow

If you’re looking for an educational day trip from Moscow, look no farther than Kaluga! This beautiful city could really entertain you for more than just a day, but to get a taste of science, be sure to visit the Tsiolkovsky State Museum of the History of Cosmonautics. Or in other words, the Space Museum.

Visitors to the museum will learn more about the history of space exploration. In fact, this is one of the largest Space Museums in Russia, which opened its doors in Kaluga in 1967. Here you can see a prototype of the iconic MIR space station and a duplicate of the Voskhod rocket. The very same rocket that took the first man to space. There’s also a planetarium, which from the outside resembles a spaceship.

Kaluga is a totally walkable city. Make sure to spend some time strolling Teatralnaya street with the authentic 19th-century pavement that now marks the Kilometer Zero. Then walk across the 18th-century Kamenniy Most (the Stone Bridge) that somewhat resembles a Roman aqueduct. If you’re an architecture buff marvel at the Church of St. Cosmas and Damian.

It is assumed that the church was erected by one of the followers of Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli in 1794. The church resembles the Smolny Convent in St. Petersburg. With five church towers directed upward and six tiers of oblong windows give the exterior a sense of lightness and airiness.

Getting There: Trains from Kiyevsky Rail Terminal to Kaluga leave every 90 minutes. The trip takes about 2 hours and 35 minutes.

15. Day Trip to Monino from Moscow

Are you looking for great family & kid-friendly day trips from Moscow? If so, consider visiting the Central Museum of the Air Forces at Monino. This unique military open-air museum is home to over 180 Russian aircraft and 100 aircraft engines and the perfect place to go when your crowd is looking for a break from hectic city life. Check this tour if you don’t feel like planning.

This site was formerly an operational airbase from 1932 till 1956 and many of the Russian aviation Design bureaus have made a contribution to the operation and maintenance of the museum. Along with aircraft from the Second World War, there are the TU-95 Bear four-engine turboprop-powered strategic bomber and the TU-144 Charger a Soviet supersonic passenger airliner (which resembled the Concorde). The museum also has exhibits related to military aviation history such as the uniform of captured U2 pilot Gary Powers.

Getting There: This museum is located at Monino Town, about 30 km from Moscow. It is open on all days from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except Mondays and Tuesdays. To get there take a train departing from Yaroslavskiy Rail Terminal and disembark at Monino station. Alternatively, hop on a bus from Schelkovskaya or Partizanskaya metro station.

Final Thoughts on the Best Day Trips from Moscow

I hope this post has helped you discover some amazing day trips from Moscow. From imposing cathedrals, mighty fortresses and monasteries, there are a lot of incredible places to visit the Russian capital, and the best part is that getting there is always ways to get around on the cheap.

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Great article for visitors in Moscow , thanks for sharing

Marie Hernandez

I hadn’t considered traveling to Moscow until NOW! Fantastic post and ideas for visitors! Thanks!

Graham Marsden

Nice to see so many options outside of Moscow, but I have to say I wish this list had a recommendation for a hike or a beautiful natural areas or national parks. Maybe the next list!

I have to admit that I knew nothing about the area surrounding Moscow. This is definitely an inspiring list of places to go.

When I read this article about Moscow. I wanted to pack my bags and get there sooner. thank you for the great write up.

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50 Epic Places To Visit In The US If You’re Single

Posted: February 4, 2024 | Last updated: February 4, 2024

Spokane, Washington

New Orleans, Louisiana

Lake Shasta, California

Mt. Hood, Oregon

Saratoga Springs, New York

Long Beach, Washington

Waco, Texas

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Shaniko, Oregon

Burlington, Vermont

Flagstaff, Arizona

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Portland, Maine

New York City, New York

The Poconos, Pennsylvania

Savannah, Georgia

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Boulder, Colorado

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Burbank, California

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Make a plan to attend the Maine Lobster Festival, July 31 to Aug. 4

The annual event takes place in Rockland.

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A fresh batch of lobster at the food tent during the 2018 Maine Lobster Festival in Rockland. Ariana van den Akker/Staff Photographer

You’ll have a shell of a good time celebrating the state’s star crustacean during the annual Maine Lobster Festival, happening July 31 to Aug. 4 at Harbor Park in Rockland.

The festival’s five-day schedule features an arts and crafts show, parade and tasting event.

Other highlights of the Maine Lobster Festival include the International Great Crate Race, during which participants attempt to race across a string of lobster traps in Rockland Harbor. There’s also a seafood cooking contest, road race and plenty of kids’ activities.

Some of the musical acts performing over the five days are Paddy Mills, Rigometrics, Charlie and The Hustle and Julia Gagnon.

Don’t forget about the actual lobsters. You’ll have plenty of chances to eat your fill.

For the full schedule, head to mainelobsterfestival.com .

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Advertisement

What We Know About the Assassination Attempt Against Trump

The former president was holding a rally when he said he was shot in his ear. Two people, including the suspected gunman, were killed and two were critically injured.

• Share full article

By Michael Levenson

• July 20, 2024

A man fired “multiple shots” toward the stage during former President Donald J. Trump’s rally in Butler, Pa., on the evening of July 13, killing one spectator and critically injuring two others, according to the Secret Service.

Mr. Trump was rushed off the stage, blood visible around his right ear, and was pronounced fine. The Secret Service said its agents had killed the shooter, whom federal law enforcement officials identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old from Bethel Park, Pa.

The attorney general’s office and the F.B.I. are investigating the shooting as an assassination attempt and possible domestic terrorism attack.

Here’s what we know about the shooting.

The Former President

Mr. Trump ducked quickly after the shots began and as members of the crowd began to scream. Secret Service agents then rushed Mr. Trump off the stage. As he was escorted to his motorcade, Mr. Trump, whose face and right ear were bloodied, pumped his fist in a defiant gesture to the crowd.

How the Assassination Attempt on Trump Unfolded

Footage from the scene of the shooting at a rally in pennsylvania on saturday shows the suspected gunman had a clear line of sight toward the former president, despite being outside the rally’s secure perimeter..

Former President Trump was speaking at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania when shots rang out. Multiple people at the rally were filming at the time. The F.B.I. has said the shots were fired by a 20-year-old man from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, which is about an hour’s drive from the rally. Trump was on stage speaking for just over six minutes and talking about illegal immigration when the first sound of gunfire is heard. There are two bursts of fire. First three shots and then five shots Three seconds after the first shot is fired, he is surrounded by Secret Service agents who attempt to hurry him from the stage. They’re followed by other law enforcement personnel who are more heavily armed. For a brief moment, Trump tells them to stop until he can get his shoes. Let me get my shoes. Let me get my shoes. Sir, I got you, sir. Let me get my shoes on. When he gets up, blood is visible on his right ear. He pauses again before being rushed off stage and raises his fist in the air, appearing to mouth the word fight. The former president was standing on stage at this location. Soon after the first gunfire is heard, a video captured what appears to be the suspected shooter dead on the roof of this building. The building is the closest one to the rally that wasn’t within the security perimeter and is roughly 400 feet north of where Trump is standing. The location of the body matches the likely firing position. This is because the injury to the ear of Trump, who is facing northwest, is consistent with gunfire from that location. An audio analysis of the shots by an acoustic expert at Montana State University found the gunfire reached the stage from the same approximate distance as the body’s location. A Secret Service spokesman also said the suspected shooter fired from an elevated position and was killed. A video filmed during the rally showed a law enforcement sharpshooter positioned here on a roof roughly 400 feet from that suspected gunman and aiming in the gunman’s general direction before Trump was shot. Footage recorded after the shooting shows one spectator bleeding from a head wound in the bleachers to the north of where Trump was standing. According to the Secret Service, one person at the rally was killed and two others were critically injured. The shooting is being investigated as an assassination attempt.

At the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, in his first public speech since the assassination attempt, Mr. Trump described his personal experience of the shooting .

“As you already know, the assassin’s bullet came within a quarter of an inch of taking my life,” Mr. Trump said.

He described turning toward a chart behind him showing the number of border crossings when he “heard a loud whizzing sound and felt something hit me really, really hard.”

“On my right ear,” he continued. “I said to myself, ‘Wow, what was that? It can only be a bullet.’”

Mr. Trump had previously written about his experience on the evening of the shooting in a post on Truth Social, his social media platform .

The Suspected Shooter

The shooter fired from the roof of a warehouse less than 500 feet from Mr. Trump before being killed by counter snipers. An analysis by The New York Times suggested that the gunman fired eight shots .

The F.B.I. has identified the gunman as Thomas Matthew Crooks . He graduated from the Community College of Allegheny County two months ago and was employed at a nursing home. High school classmates described Mr. Crooks as intelligent but solitary.

Law enforcement officials recovered an AR-15-type semiautomatic rifle from Mr. Crooks’s body that had been legally purchased by the shooter’s father..

Federal law enforcement officials discovered three explosive devices connected to Mr. Crooks. One of the devices was found in his home, and two others were found in his car parked near the rally.

The Casualties

The man who was killed at the rally was Corey Comperatore , 50, a married father of two daughters from Sarver, Pa., who worked at a plastic manufacturing company and was a volunteer firefighter. Mr. Comperatore was fatally shot in the head after he dove to cover family members who accompanied him to the rally, according to Gov. Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania.

David Dutch, 57, of New Kensington, Pa., and James Copenhaver, 74, of Moon Township, Pa., were critically injured in the shooting .

The shooting happened as Mr. Trump was holding a large outdoor rally on the grounds of the Butler Farm Show in Butler, a town of 13,000 people about 34 miles north of Pittsburgh. Mr. Trump had been showing supporters a chart about the number of border crossings just minutes into his speech when the shots rang out. Attendees screamed, “Get down, get down!” and “Shots fired!” The Secret Service quickly cleared the press area, moved the crowd out and declared the area a crime scene. Some Trump supporters held hands and prayed and then chanted “U.S.A.!”

The Investigations

Multiple investigations are underway to understand how a would-be assassin managed to open fire in the vicinity of a presidential candidate.

The F.B.I. is leading the investigation into the shooter’s motives and the assassination attempt, and has gained access to the gunman’s phone and at least one laptop.

F.B.I. officials told members of Congress that the shooter used his cellphone and other devices to search for images of Mr. Trump and President Biden, along with an array of public figures. So far, no clear motive for the attack has emerged.

Congress and the Department of Homeland Security have opened their own investigations into broader security failures, including by the Secret Service.

Kimberly A. Cheatle, the director of the Secret Service, will appear before the House Oversight Committee on Monday. Ms. Cheatle took responsibility for the events but said she did not plan to resign .

Alexandra E. Petri and Hank Sanders contributed reporting.

Michael Levenson covers breaking news for The Times from New York. More about Michael Levenson

Our Coverage of the Trump Rally Shooting

The Investigation : F.B.I. officials told Congress that the 20-year-old gunman who tried to kill Donald Trump used his cellphone and other devices to search for images of Trump and President Biden .

Security Blind Spots : Even as investigators continue to examine what happened at the Trump rally, it is already clear that there were multiple missed opportunities to stop the gunman  before the situation turned deadly.

The Gunman : In interviews, former classmates of the suspect described him as intelligent but solitary , someone who tried to avoid teasing by fellow students.

Secret Service Director : Kimberly Cheatle  returned in 2022 to lead the agency she had served for nearly 30 years. Now, the assassination attempt on Trump has thrown her tenure into uncertainty .

Fears of What’s Next : Among voters, there is growing anxiety that America’s political divide is nearly beyond repair, and the shooting only made things worse .