football away day trips

Unique Football Trips

Share your passion, broaden your cultural horizons.  For football fans, by football fans!

Away Days Football Travel

Football is the number one sport in the world. A sport that unites. Football is much more than just 90 minutes on a pitch. It is part of our society, rooted in the local culture. It shapes the identity and colors the history. Football provided us with a huge amount of anecdotes.  You wake up with it and go to bed with it.  Football is a way of life!

The love for it goes deep in our hearts. Most of the times it is bigger than anything. Close to the pitch, smell the grass, taste the atmosphere. Within the unity of football there is so much diversity to discover. The more authentic the experience, the better. That is what Away Days Football Travel is all about. That makes our trips unique. Share the passion, broaden your cultural horizons! For football fans, by football fans. We make our experience, your experience!

Our Football Trips

Football Trip Argentina 2025 – Buenos Aires

• location: Buenos Aires, Argentina
• date: March 2025
• availability: 4

FC Copenhagen v Brøndby IF

• location: Copenhagen, Denmark
• date: TBA 2024-2025
• availability: 16

Levski v CSKA

• location: Sofia, Bulgaria

Football Round Trip Japan

• location: Japan, Asia
• date: TBA 2025 june/july
• availability: 10

FK Željezničar v FK Sarajevo

• location: Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina
• date: TBA 2024 - 2025
• availability: 14

Red Star v Partizan

• location: Belgrade, Serbia
• date: TBA 2025 (March exp)

Our Match Packs

Experience 1. FC Köln

• location: Cologne, Germany
• date: 2023-2024 season
• availability: On request
• From: € 59,- per person

Hammarby IF – The Bajen Experience

• location: Stockholm, Sweden
• date: 2024 several options
• From: € 185,- per person

Experience Borussia Dortmund

• location: Dortmundd, Germany
• date: 2023 - 2024 season
• From: € 65,- per person

• Customized traveling

Rather traveling on your own completely based on your wishes together with your friends, football team, business club or bachelor party?

Of course! We have an extensive experience when it comes to football (culture) at a variety of destinations. The foundation for your customized trip. The ultimate experience as wished for combined with professional advice brings you the perfect package.

Have a great trip! 

Brian Koopman (NL)

Thank you for this fantastic trip. A unique experience. Excitement in every aspect of the trip. Exceptional atmosphere and great football match!

Matty Nelis (BE)

A great football weekend in Lisbon. Without this organization we would never have been so close with the locals. Very well arranged, next season we will go with Away Days again! 

Chris Gosen (NL)

What an amazing experience! The fierce Sarajevo derby combined with culture and the rich history of the city. Perfect weekend! 

The ultimate football experience

Challenge yourself. experience the authenticity, the unique character and the special hand picked travel packes for your perfect football trip! 

The love for it goes deep in our hearts. Most of the times it is bigger than anything. Close to the pitch, smell the grass, taste the atmosphere. Within the unity of football there is so much diversity to discover. The more authentic the experience, the better. That is what Away Days Football Travel is all about. That makes our trips unique.

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Our Mission

This season, you qualify for europe.

At Secret Match Day, our mission is to unleash the thrill of mystery and ignite your sense of adventure by offering unique football trips to Europe’s biggest and wackiest football leagues. We believe in the transformative power of travel and football, allowing you to explore diverse cultures while embracing the excitement of the unknown.

Our football & travel expert team is readily available via WhatsApp, offering assistance and guidance throughout. Let us take you on an extraordinary journey where you match with the unexpected, they don’t call this the world game for nothing!

Our service is designed to relieve you from the hassle and effort of researching and booking yourself. A ccommodation is an optional extra, giving you with the freedom to choose the type of accommodation that suits your preferences and budget. 

We take pride in our ability to curate extraordinary matchday adventures, leveraging our expertise to discover the best fixtures, the most captivating stadiums, and the most passionate local fans. You never know, you may fall in love with a 2nd club.

"We had a brilliant experience using Secret Match Day. We had opted not to find anything about the destination until the airport and the staff at Secret Match Day were so accommodating in sorting everything out for us so that all we had to do was arrive at the airport on the day. It is the perfect idea for a weekend break, especially for those who love football and travelling. We received tickets to watch FC Porto and thoroughly enjoyed the game and exploring the beautiful city. We absolutely will be using this service again in the future!"

"Excellent weekend away in Cologne to watch Bayer Leverkusen. A great package at a decent price. Well worth it and will look to do another trip in the future. The only minor negative was the hotel was a bit far out so had to rely on Ubers which was fine for us but possibly not for everyone. The hotel itself was nice though and overall good value for money. Really comprehensive information before the trip."

"Incredible service, absolutely loved my time away to Milan, seeing the San Siro has been on my bucket list for a while and to be able to see it and my favourite Italian team AC Milan play was unbelievable! Milan is a beautiful city and a weekend only scrapes the surface of exploring, there's so much to see and do and I'm already looking forward to going back! Secretmatchday.com had great communication, both via email and WhatsApp, friendly professional staff that were a pleasure to talk to and nothing was a bother, intending to be a repeat customer already"

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How it Works

Welcome to Mystery Away Days, where the love of football and the thrill of adventure come together. We offer fans the chance to embrace the unknown and experience live football in a whole new way.

With our unique service, you’ll get return flight tickets from the airport of your choice to a European country and a ticket to a football match in that country as well as accommodation (if requested) for your stay.

The mystery?   You’ll only find out where you’re going when you receive your tickets. This will be at least two weeks before your departure when match tickets are issued to us.

Ordering is Simple

Head to our Packages page to see what’s on offer filtering by month and/or airport.

Build your perfect Mystery Away Day. Add the number of travellers, select your desired accommodation choice, or don’t include any, and finally confirm your departure location and let us know if you’re travelling with children.

Place your order. Get excited. The trip of a lifetime is happening.

We will send you a passport form immediately once you’ve placed your order. In this form you can also make any special requests or provide us with any important information about your travelling party. You can also include any clubs or countries you’d like to avoid.

Get packing, and enjoy the most unforgettable weekend. Your flight information, match tickets, and accommodation details (if requested) will arrive around 2 weeks before departure.

Not booked yet?

Mystery Away Days sends you return flights, match tickets and accommodation to a mystery game anywhere across Europe for the ultimate footballing weekend experience! What are you waiting for?

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Why choose an Official Sportsbreaks.com Experience?

Unmissable sport in dream destinations

Witnessing European football nights under the lights, being circuit-side at a Grand Prix, or cheering a six at the cricket - live sport can’t be beaten! Travelling abroad, absorbing the atmosphere of your favourite sporting event, or watching history unfold – they’re memories to last a lifetime.

A hassle-free booking experience

At Sportsbreaks.com, we’re here to take away the stress of planning and booking your dream break. Alongside your official ticket, we’ll take care of your flights, airport transfers, hotel, and transport to make your break as comfortable and hassle-free as possible.

A human touch and service you can trust

Our expert team – each with years of industry experience – are here to help you. As recipients of the Feefo Gold Trusted Service Award 2024, we’re committed to providing exceptional customer support and a service you can trust.

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The Sportsbreaks.com team have extensive experience in sports travel and are huge sports fans themselves, so you can be confident that your trip is in the best hands. SportsBreaks.com , for fans, by fans!

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We like to take all of the stress out of your trip, that's why we ensure that your trip is protected from any unforeseen events.

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Your Financial Protection - Some of the flights and flight-inclusive holidays on this website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. But ATOL protection does not apply to all holiday and travel services listed on this website This website will provide you with information on the protection that applies in the case of each holiday and travel service offered before you make your booking. If you do not receive an ATOL Certificate then the booking will not be ATOL protected. If you do receive an ATOL Certificate but all the parts of your trip are not listed on it, those parts will not be ATOL protected. Please see our booking conditions for information, or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: https://www.caa.co.uk/

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Mystery Football Weekends

Unforgettable Football Experience

Explore europe's greatest football grounds.

Estádio da Luz

Could you be experiencing the thrill of Benfica FC at their iconic stadium in Lisbon, Portugal? Get ready to be blown away by the stadium's incredible history, state-of-the-art facilities, and unbeatable atmosphere

Estadi Montilivi

Could you be ready to experience a trip to Barcelona and catch a match of FC Girona at Edtad Monitilivi? From the iconic architecture of Antoni Gaudí to the world-renowned museums and galleries, there's something for everyone in Barcelona.

Stadio Olimpico

Imagining experiencing the heart-pumping energy of a live football match at the legendary Stadio Olimpico, home of FC Roma. Join thousands of passionate fans in this iconic stadium, located in the heart of Rome.

De Grolsch Veste

The De Grolsch Veste Stadium in Enschede, the Netherlands - the home of FC Twente. Get ready to witness the passion and energy of FC Twente's loyal supporters as they create an unforgettable atmosphere.

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Official match break packages!

Football, the beautiful game which speaks no language and transcends borders can be classified as one of the world great attractions. The versatility and creativity of the players differ from which part of the globe these talents descend. South American flair is coupled with raw African talent; add the methodical Europeans, the innovative Far East and the developing North Americans, all of which combine for the perfect recipe which is the European soccer leagues. 

Premier League - England

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Tottenham Hotspur FC & Tottenham Hotspur Stadium

As one of the few official tour operators we have the pleasure of offering seats in Tottenham's new arena!

Arsenal FC at Emirates Stadium

Secure your football trip with official Cannon Club Level Hospitality at Emirates Stadium and Arsenal FC.

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Chelsea FC & Stamford Bridge

Official Club Chelsea Reseller - GO Sport Travel! Secure your match break package & official football tickets at Stamford Bridge & Chelsea FC.

FA Cup Final

Secure your match break package for The FA Cup Final!

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Match breaks with amazing values! Secure your package today!

Make sure to secure your seat for the upcoming Sky Bet Play Off Finals at Wembley!

These competitive leagues have become a favorite destination for footballs global talent to showcase their skills and be elevated into household names. The English Premier League, Spanish La Liga and Italian Serie A are considered some of the most cosmopolitan, and competitive leagues in the world. On any given day, a lesser known club can upset one of their more illustrious counterparts. The European leagues are viewed as the pinnacle of a player’s club career and therefore attract stars from all parts of the globe including the likes of Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and many more, playing in the top european clubs. In addition to the domestic leagues, each year Europe hosts the most converted club competition, the European Champions League. The competition pits domestic champions and runner ups from Europe’s elite leagues against each other, the best of the best to prove who ultimately reins champions of Europe.

What European Football tickets does Go Sport Travel offer?

GO Sport Travel, the leader in European soccer ticket and hospitality solutions offer a selection of football weekend and football break packages. Hotels, football tickets and unique experiences at leagues such the Premier League, La Liga and Serie A are just some of the packages GO Sport Travel offer. Apart from tickets and hospitality at domestic leagues, GO Sport Travel also offers tickets and hospitality for the leading club knockout competitions including tickets at Wembley Stadium and its award winning Club Wembley facility. 

How do I buy European football tickets through Go Sport Travel?

European Football tickets and hospitality packages are readily available and easy to purchase through our online destination at gosporttravel.com . To learn more about these offerings as well as a selection of music concerts in London and through the rest of Europe, contact a member of our team via email [email protected] or call +46 660-21 10 90 and we will be sure to tailor the perfect package for your unforgettable European football or music experience. 

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Through our agreements, which in many cases are the largest on the market, we offer you 100% confidence when booking your ticket. Secure deliveries, selected seats and the opportunity for Hospitality always give you value for your money.

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Updated conditions to take advantage of from 2020-09-03.

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🚐 FEBRUARY COACH TRAVEL NOW ON SALE 🏟

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FOOTBALL TRAVEL LIMITED

The ultimate Liverpoool FC away day travel company. Made by fans for the fans ! 👊

UPCOMING TRIPS

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Suitable match day travel for all Liverpool supporters young and old!

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Our experienced team have taken fans across the globe and are always available during travel days for guidance and general pre game chit chat! 🤝

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FOOTBALL MYSTERY TRIP BREAKS

Book. reveal. travel., football mystery trip breaks.

Covert Football Trips offers football breaks with a TWIST! We’ve combined a football match experience with the excitement of an international MYSTERY trip – perfect for those who want something a little different and great to take away the pressures of putting your own trip together.

Our Mystery Football Trips can take you to 1 of 14 European Countries (Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Slovakia or Switzerland) for superb match experiences.  We also have specific packages should you prefer to stick to the “Big 3” (Germany, Italy and Spain).  We will secure you the best seats available (or standing should you wish!) at great matches, amongst superb atmospheres and build an unforgettable experience for you.

Simply choose your preferred weekend for travel, select the package you want based on number of nights and number of matches, and let us do the rest. Your flights, hotels and match tickets will all be taken care of.

Then comes the best bit – we will REVEAL your destination approximately three weeks before departure, or sooner if you wish (subject to how far in advance you book) – perhaps organise a get-together with everyone on your trip for a sensational revealing!

Mystery Football Breaks are booked by us based on many of our own experiences.  We promise that you won’t be disappointed.

The simplest football break can be booked in just a few steps… BOOK, REVEAL, TRAVEL!

Simply select your prefered weekend and package. We do the rest.

Dramatically receive details of your match and city.

Your itinerary will allow time to enjoy yourselves in the City you are visiting. No mad rush and no crazy agenda!

OUR FOOTBALL TRIP PACKAGES

Mystery football trips to Europe’s top matches and cities. Flights, Hotels and Ticket inclusive.

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“Love this idea, we’re visiting 3 grounds this weekend but this sounds even more fun”

“The perfect service for the perfect weekend. Helpful throughout the process and ready to answer any questions that I had, especially in the current climate”

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Football Away Days

Supporting Away Day Fans

Here at Football Away Days we understand how difficult it can be to organise your away day, from not knowing where to safely park to where to eat before kick off. Our vision is to support every single football fan who wants to travel to an away game with a stress free experience!

We offer guidance and support for all 92 EFL clubs across the 4 main divisions in English football.

Keeping an eye on the League, look no further! We will keep you updated with everything from recent scores to league positions and much more!

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Joe Robinson

• Last Updated: 05/04/2023

5 Invaluable Pieces of Football Away Days Advice 2024

If you’re a fan planning football away days trips, it’s important to prepare carefully. To help you make the most of your experience, we’ve put together a list of 5 pieces of football away days advice .

These tips cover everything from travel arrangements to matchday etiquette, so you can enjoy a memorable and satisfying experience while supporting your team away from home. Whether you’re a Tottenham Hotspur or Notts County fan, these tips are sure to help!

So, what are our Top 5 Pieces of Football Away Days Advice?

Plan travel arrangements in advance.

It is important to plan your travel arrangements well in advance for a successful football away day . This helps you secure affordable transportation options like car, bus, or train and ensures that you reach the stadium on time.

Arriving late for the match can be frustrating and disappointing, and you may miss out on pre-match activities like visiting local pubs. To enjoy a stress-free and smooth away day, plan your travel ahead of time and avoid unnecessary stress.

Traffic for Premier League fixtures can be terrible, whether it’s Manchester City vs Manchester United or a two teams in the relegation zone. So always leave yourself a few hours just in case!

Dress Appropriately

To fully enjoy your football away day , it’s important to dress appropriately for the weather and occasion. This will increase your comfort level throughout the day, especially during extreme weather conditions.

Additionally, it’s crucial to consider the dress code of the home team’s supporters to show respect and avoid any conflicts. By dressing appropriately, you can blend in with the locals and have a more immersive experience as a visiting fan.

I’ve travelled to over 150 away days and my best tip for you would be to not wear your teams colours until you’re inside the stadium, especially if it’s derby day. This will reduce the risk of you being in any conflict. Many fans travel in groups, which is your best bet to stay safe

Respect Local Customs & Matchday Etiquette

When going to a football away day, it’s vital to respect local customs and matchday etiquette. Each football club and country has its unique traditions and expectations, so it’s necessary to research and comprehend them before the game to prevent misunderstandings or conflicts.

You should adhere to stadium rules, show respect towards the home team’s fans, and refrain from using any offensive language or committing provocative acts. By following local customs and matchday etiquette, you can help promote a friendly and welcoming environment and focus on the football!

Snacks For The Journey

To have a successful football away day, make sure to stay hydrated and bring snacks for the journey. This is particularly important if you will be travelling for a considerable amount of time, regardless of your mode of transportation and the distance of your journey.

Bringing enough water and snacks is vital to keep your energy levels up and prevent dehydration, especially if you plan to drink alcohol during the game. Also, football away grounds are always expensive, so you can save yourself so money bringing your own food and drink.

I’ve made this mistake many time. There’s nothing worse than being sat on a coach starving for hours. Proper hydration and nourishment can also help you avoid exhaustion and sickness, allowing you to fully appreciate the matchday experience.

Keeping Valuables Safe & Secure

When going on a football away day, it is essential to keep your valuable belongings safe and secure . Unfortunately, pickpocketing and theft are frequent in crowded places, including stadiums.

To prevent such incidents, it is necessary to keep your phone, wallet, and other valuables out of sight and secure. This can be accomplished by using a bag with a zipper or wearing a money belt. By following these safety measures, you can have a stress-free and pleasant football away day without worrying about any potential theft.

I hope this Football Away Days Advice helps!

To have a great experience supporting your team on football away days in 2023, remember to follow these five important tips.

By following these tips, you will have an enjoyable and hassle-free time while making unforgettable memories. And most importantly, don’t forget to stay safe and fully immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of an away day.

Joe Robinson is a lifelong Manchester United fan with a passion for football and discovering new stadiums. He's a seasoned away day visitor who has extensive knowledge of football-related matters, including food, facilities, and parking arrangements.

About the Author

Related articles, the 5 manchester united forums you need to join in 2024, the 7 best pubs near old trafford | 2024 fan guide, 9 best old trafford parking tips | manchester united 2024.

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At Away Games, we know it can be a total nightmare trying to organise an away day. Either the information you need is on a number of different websites, or you can’t find it at all.

Our aim is to make it totally hassle free by bringing all you need to know into one place with our away day guides.

To get started, simply choose a league from the options below, and let us help you plan the perfect away day.

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

Featured city guides.

Four great day trips from Moscow

Dec 18, 2018 • 5 min read

The city of Tula with its landmark 16th-century kremlin makes for a great day trip from Moscow © Soloviev Andrey / Shutterstock

Moscow has enough attractions to keep any traveller busy for a couple of weeks, but it would be a shame not to get out of the city and explore its environs, if only for a day. Whether you travel by car or public transport, you can explore a mix of quirky museums, artistic retreats, medieval fortresses and 19th-century architecture in bucolic surroundings.

Tula and Yasnaya Polyana

The home to one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in Russia, Tula makes a perfect destination for a day trip. The city itself was founded in the latter half of the 14th century, but its famous landmark – a red-brick fortress or ‘kremlin’ – was built in the early 16th century to defend Russia against the Tatars. You can take a tour of the recently renovated kremlin walls or visit one of its small museums devoted to local specialities like pryanik (gingerbread) or the samovar . Right outside the kremlin walls is the new Kazanskaya embankment, designed by the Wowhaus architecture firm.

Tula has much more to offer: the Oktava creative cluster at the still-functioning eponymous microphone factory, with its Machine Tool Museum and contemporary art exhibitions; newly pedestrianised Metallistov St, lined with impressive 18th- and 19th-century merchant mansions; and the Fine Arts Museum with a decent collection of Russian avant-garde, including Kazimir Malevich and Wassily Kandinsky.

Just a short drive away is  Yasnaya Polyana , the estate-museum of Russia’s most famous writer Leo Tolstoy. The museum tries to keep everything exactly as it was in 1910, the year of the writer’s death. Book ahead to visit the mansion where Tolstoy penned two of his best-known works, War and Peace and Anna Karenina .

Getting there: Catch a speed train to Tula from Moscow ’s Kursk station (Kursky vokzal); the fastest ones take just under two hours. Yasnaya Polyana is a 20- to 30-minute taxi ride from the centre of Tula.

Tarusa and Polenovo

Nicknamed ‘the Russian Barbizon’, Tarusa has always attracted the creative intelligentsia. Founded in the 13th century as a defence fort on the Oka River, in the early 20th century the town became a popular dacha (summer cottage) destination for Muscovites. Tarusa is centred around the Cathedral Square; don’t miss its art gallery, famous for a collection of paintings by avant-garde artist Edward Steinberg. Another must-see is the Tsvetaev family house, where prominent 20th-century poet Marina Tsvetaeva used to spend a lot of time. Wander around the centre full of splendid 19th-century buildings, imagining yourself a character in one of Chekhov’s plays, and climb the hill to see the 17th-century Resurrection Church, Tarusa’s oldest building; just below is a chapel with a sacred spring.

The estate-museum of Polenovo  is located on the opposite bank of the Oka River. Prominent artist Vasily Polenov spent a long time looking for a place to build his home and finally chose this spot to settle down with his family at the end of the 19th century. All the buildings on the estate were designed by Polenov himself, as well as the Holy Trinity Church in the nearby village of Bekhovo. The museum here has always been run by the artist’s descendants; there’s a great collection of paintings by Polenov himself, his friends and family members.

Getting there: Take a speed train from Kursk station to Serpukhov, from where you can catch a bus or taxi to Tarusa. To reach Polenovo in summer, get a speedboat across the river. In winter, go back to Serpukhov, take a Moscow–Tula train to Tarusskaya station and then catch a taxi.

Rostov-Veliky

It’s not clear when exactly Rostov-Veliky – often referred to as ‘the pearl in the Golden Ring’ – was founded, but it was probably as early as the 9th century. This city on the banks of Lake Nero played a significant role in Russian history, but today it’s a small town called Veliky (Great) – if only not to confuse it with its much larger namesake in the south, Rostov-on-Don.

The main attraction of Rostov is its magnificent kremlin , so called because it resembles a fortress even though its walls serve a purely decorative purpose. Built in the second half of the 17th century by a local metropolitan, today the kremlin is a museum with a large collection of icons and religious artefacts, as well as enamel miniatures (a local artistic speciality). Don’t miss the Church of Odigitria, built in the style of Moscow baroque, and the Assumption Cathedral, located right under the kremlin walls. There are 15 bells in its belfry, including Sysoy, one of the largest in Europe. Outside the kremlin walls, you’ll find several excellent restaurants and cafes serving traditional Russian cuisine.

The Spaso-Yakovlevsky Monastery is definitely worth the 15-minute walk from the kremlin. Founded in the turbulent 14th century, it’s surrounded by high stone walls with towers, which provide magnificent views of Lake Nero.

Getting there: From Moscow’s Yaroslav station (Yaroslavsky vokzal), board an express train to Yaroslavl and get off at Rostov-Veliky. The fastest trains take about two and a half hours.

Perhaps the most interesting small town in the Moscow region and another popular day-trip destination for Muscovites, Kolomna is full of cute little churches and 19th-century mansions in excellent condition. The famous 18th-century architect Matvey Kazakov, an expert of pseudo-Gothic style, worked on a number of buildings in Kolomna. There’s a well-preserved 16th-century kremlin with several intact towers and two monasteries within its walls.

A quirky museum, Artkommunalka  is devoted to the life in a Soviet-era communal apartment, supposedly frequented by the legendary writer and dissident Venedikt Yerofeyev. The museum also has an interesting collection of contemporary art. If you’re not into art, local enthusiasts have revived two food specialities – pastila (similar to marshmallow) and kalach (a type of bread) – and opened two small museums devoted to each one. Theatrical performances take place here, and there are cafes where you can sample the products.

Getting there: Catch a train from Moscow’s Kazan station (Kazansky vokzal); the fastest one takes just under two hours.

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Moscow Itinerary: How To Spend 3 Days In Moscow

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: March 2, 2023

Categories Trans Mongolian Express

Moscow is the capital of Russia and there are few cities in the world that have played such a significant part in history.

Home to the Kremlin, the Red Square, the colorful St. Basil's Cathedral, and many more famous landmarks, Moscow is a city like no other.

This Moscow itinerary will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in Moscow. From the best places to see in Moscow to how to get around, this post has got you covered.

Moscow itinerary

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Moscow 3 day itinerary: map with highlights

Click here for the interactive map .

What to do in Moscow in 3 days

• Day 1: The Red Square, GUM Department Store, St. Basil's Cathedral, Lenin's Mausoleum, and the State Historical Museum.
• Day 2: The Kremlin, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, Gorky Park, and the Bolshoi Theatre.
• Day 3: Izmailovsky Market, Bunker 42, and Zaryadye Park.

Important things to know when planning a trip to Moscow

The best time to plan a trip to Moscow is April-May and September-October . During these months temperatures are (generally) quite comfortable, though even in April there can be a bit of snow! The summer months are hot, both in regard to temperature as well as activities in the city. While it's a nice time to visit, it's also the busiest time of the year to visit Moscow. Hotel prices reflect this as well and summer definitely isn't a great time for budget travelers to visit Moscow. Winter in Moscow is cold, and I mean seriously cold (-15°C isn't rare). However, if you can withstand the subzero temperatures and freezing winds, it can be a magical time to visit. A snow-covered St. Basil’s Cathedral is a sight you will never forget. Keep in mind that days are short in winter and be sure to bring plenty of warm winter clothes!

The official currency in Russia is the Russian Ruble (₽ or RUB). Here you can find the current exchange rates, at the time of writing €1 is approximately 70RUB and $1 is around 62RUB.

Yes, you probably do. Getting a visa for Russia requires a bit of time and effort. You need to fill out several forms and provide a detailed travel itinerary and information about your accommodation. Also, you will need a Visa Support Letter which can be provided by your travel agency or your hotel. Depending on your nationality, there may be additional requirements, please refer to the information provided on the website of your country's Embassy in Russia.

While most of the things to see in Moscow listed in this post are within walking distance of each other, sometimes you will have to travel a bit further afield. The best way to get around in Moscow is by metro. It's cheap and efficient and a sightseeing activity in itself, because Moscow has the most beautiful metro stations in the world ! Among the most exquisitely decorated stations are Komsomolskaya, Novoslobodskaya, Mayakovskaya, Taganskaya, and Prospect Mira Station, but there are many more worthwhile stations to be found in the Moscow underground. You can purchase a single ticket from one of the ticket machines or get a rechargeable Troika Card when you plan on taking the metro several times. Read more details on how to use the Moscow metro here . If you prefer to get around by taxi, that's possible too. We used the Gett app to order a taxi (similar to Uber) to avoid confusion about our intended destination and having to negotiate in Russian. A convenient extra for families is the Gett Kids option, these cars are outfitted with a car seat.

The best things to do in Moscow

While you could easily spend a week in Moscow (or more), most of us, unfortunately, don't have that much time available.

This 3-day Moscow itinerary will guide you to the most popular and important places to visit in Moscow, as well as to some of the more unusual things to do in Moscow.

Below you can find the list of the Moscow sightseeing highlights included in this post.

The Red Square

Gum department store, st. basil's cathedral, lenin's mausoleum, the state historical museum, the kremlin, cathedral of christ the saviour.

• The Bolshoi Theatre

Izmailovsky Market

Zaryadye park.

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Moscow itinerary day 1

There is no better place to start your first day in Moscow, than at the world-famous Red Square.

This square is considered the central square of Moscow, not just because all the major streets start here, but also because no matter where you look when standing on this square, there are historic buildings all around.

Starting with the impressive GUM store and going clockwise, there is the colorful Saint Basil's Cathedral, the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, the State Historical Museum, and the Kazan Cathedral.

However, before entering any of these Moscow must-see attractions, allow yourself a moment to take in the view and let it sink in that you're standing on historical grounds (and a UNESCO site).

The Red Square was the official address of the Soviet government and played an important part in history. Many military parades have been held (and are still being held) here. It's the place where protests have taken place, as well as high-profile concerts from famous international artists.

All in all, it's one of the places in Moscow you can't miss during your Moscow city trip!

Yulia from That's What She Had: it might seem like visiting a department store is not something you’d do on the first visit to Russia’s capital.

But GUM is not like any other department store and is well worth your time, if only for its unique architecture.

First of all, it’s located right on Red Square which makes it an easy stop on your Moscow trip itinerary. Second, GUM is not a simple mall, but an institution built in the late XIX century.

The abbreviation stands for  Glavniy Universalniy Magazin or Main Universal Store. Its impressive facade extends for over 240 meters along the eastern side of Red Square.

Inside you’ll find a beautiful glass ceiling supported by a metal framework, not unlike the ones found in the old train stations of Great Britain. 

While shopping in GUM will cost you an arm and a leg, there’s one reason why tourists and locals come here anyways:  traditional Russian food  at Stolovaya #57. Stolovaya is Russian for canteen and this is where you can get your  pelmeni , borsch , and  pirozhki  fix!

Afterward, don’t forget to get the famous  plombir  ice cream in one of the kiosks on the ground floor.

Saint Basil's Cathedral with its colorful domes is easily recognizable and one of the most popular Moscow tourist attractions. The building, built on orders from Ivan the Terrible, was completed in 1561 to commemorate the victory over Kazan and Astrakhan.

Until the construction of Ivan the Great Bell Tower (which can be found within the walls of the Kremlin), it was the tallest building in Moscow.

The design of St. Basil's Cathedral is truly unique; it's shaped like the flame of a bonfire and not one building in a similar style can be found in the whole of Russia.

A legend tells the story of how Ivan the Terrible had the architects of the Cathedral blinded so they could never build anything comparable.

This is a myth, however, but the fact remains that Saint Basil's Cathedral is one of a kind and it's not surprising it has become the symbol of Russia.

Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan: Lenin Mausoleum is hard to miss. It's a stepped-pyramid construction that sits right at the base of the Kremlin walls on the western side of Red Square.

Entrance is free but note that opening hours are quite limited, with visiting hours lasting only from 10 am to 1 pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

If seeing Lenin's embalmed body is important to you, be sure to take this into account when planning your itinerary in Moscow.

One of my  top tips for travelers to Russia  is to arrive early, well before the mausoleum opens, as the queue is usually quite long. However, usually, the queue does move pretty quickly.

This is especially true now that they have lifted the ban on bags and cameras.

It used to be that all cameras, smartphones, and bags of any size had to be checked at a left-luggage office nearby. But now you can bring a small handbag or backpack as well as your camera and phone.

Photography inside the mausoleum is still strictly forbidden, but you are allowed to take photos of the graves of various other important Russian figures that line the path leading to the mausoleum.

Once you finally enter the mausoleum, the atmosphere is surprisingly peaceful and uncrowded. It doesn't feel nearly as rushed as when visiting Mao Ze Dong's tomb in Beijing or Ho Chi Minh's body in Hanoi , for example.

The illumination of the body is very well done and would make for superb photography if it wasn't forbidden. As an added bonus, just after you exit, you'll see the grave of Joseph Stalin outside.

Rai from A Rai Of Light: the imposing crimson building at the northern end of the Red Square is the State Historical Museum.

By decree of Alexander III, the museum was built with the support of Russian historians, philosophers, and artists. The red brick building, dating from 1875, was designed in the Russian revival style by Vladimir Shervud.

The National Museum of Russia houses a collection of over four million items, devoted to the history of the country's ancient and imperial period.

The exhibitions include many items previously owned by members of the Romanov dynasty, such as documents, artwork, personal items, furnishings, and decorations from the palace interiors.

Another exhibit features relics of the prehistoric tribes that once inhabited this region.

Notable items include ancient manuscripts, birch-bark scrolls, a longboat excavated from the banks of the Volga River, and the largest coin collection in Russia, sourced from the museums in St Petersburg .

The State Historical Museum is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm. The entrance fee is 700₽ per adult.

Moscow itinerary day 2

When listing the best Moscow things to do, one cannot miss the Kremlin! The Kremlin houses the current seat of power in Russia and has done so for several decades.

Within its walls, the offices of the Russian Government can be found. During Soviet rule, the Kremlin was where all the important decisions were made but its history goes back for many centuries.

The first mention of the Kremlin in history books was in 1147, however, the current citadel dates from the 16th century.

The Kremlin is one of the major fortifications found in Europe, with walls that are up to 6.5 meters thick and 19 meters high in particular sections.

Inside the complex, there are many government buildings, however, these aren't accessible to the public.

Around Cathedral Square you'll find (as the name suggests) many churches and cathedrals, such as the Cathedral of the Archangel, Annunciation Cathedral, the Church of Laying Our Lady's Holy Robe, and Ivan the Great Bell-Tower.

While Cathedral Square is definitely worth visiting, the highlight of the Kremlin is a visit to the Armoury.

Inside you can find an impressive collection of Faberge eggs, beautiful dresses worn by Catherine the Great, intricately decorated thrones used by the Tsars, and much more. Unfortunately, photography is forbidden inside the Armoury.

Practical information about visiting the Kremlin

In order to visit both Cathedral Square and the Armoury, you will have to buy two separate tickets. A ticket to Cathedral Square costs 700₽ and a ticket to the Armoury is 1000₽. Prices mentioned are for adults, children below 16 years old are free.

Tickets can be bought at the ticket office onsite on the same day, however, there's no guarantee tickets will be available, especially during peak season.

Conveniently, tickets can be bought online as well, which is highly advisable if you want to make sure you'll be able to visit the Kremlin during your city trip to Moscow.

How much time to spend at the Kremlin

Be sure to allow plenty of time to explore the Kremlin, at least half a day but it's easy to spend more time as there is so much to see.

Please note there isn't any food sold inside the Kremlin, so bring a snack and enough water (especially in summer when it can get pretty hot).

Luggage storage

Backpacks aren't allowed inside the Kremlin, they can be stored (for free) in the cloakroom, but you can bring your camera and a small purse.

We could also take our Babyzen Yoyo stroller inside, which was very convenient as our 10-month-old son could take a nap while we explored the sights.

After the original Cathedral of Christ the Saviour was demolished by Stalin in 1931, a new version was completed in 2000.

The imposing building is the tallest Orthodox Christian church in the world (103 meters high), and is beautiful on the outside as well as on the inside.

Visiting the Cathedral is free of charge and it's open any day of the week from 10 am to 5 pm (except on Mondays when the opening hours are 1 to 5 pm).

When visiting the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour it's important to dress appropriately. For men, this means no shorts or tank tops.

Women can't enter with mini skirts or shorts, strap tops, or anything too revealing. Also, women are advised to cover their heads with a scarf as a sign of respect.

Inside the Cathedral photography isn't allowed, but believe me when I say there is plenty to see. There are beautiful frescoes, colorful icons, impressive statues, and other vivid decorations.

For a beautiful view over Moscow, walk up the stairs to the 40-meter high observation deck (entrance fee 400₽).  

Visit Gorky Park

Helen from Holidays from Hels : Gorky Park, named after the Soviet writer Maxim Gorky, has recently undergone extensive regeneration to become Moscow's central leisure hub for young Muscovites.

Every day of the week you can find many Moscow residents strolling along the banks of the river in the summer, hiring bikes, picnicking on the grass, or dining at one of the many restaurants.

Open-air cinemas, petanque, and ping pong are all on offer. Not to be missed is the iconic white stone entranceway and museum, complete with columns carved with Soviet hammers and sickles.

In winter, look out for the ducks waddling across the frozen Moskva River, and watch boats attempting to navigate through the cracked ice. However, the real winter highlight is to try ice skating on one of the biggest rinks in Europe!

Ice skating in Gorky Park

The park’s maze of pedestrian pathways is transformed into one huge skating rink, which can play host to up to four thousand skaters. 

Not surprisingly, Russians are talented ice skaters and there is a good chance you will find yourself next to a pirouetting ballerina.

Handily, you will find you will already be wearing most of what you need – gloves, hat, scarf, and thick socks and you can hire skates on-site. Lockers are included in the price if you don’t fancy skating with your day pack.

Disco tunes fill the air, and the whole arena is backlit in spectacular neon lights. Rest your weary legs and warm up at one of the cafes dotted along the frozen pathways, with the added bonus of not having to take off your skates.

Opening times

The rink is open from 10 am until 11 pm on weekdays and until midnight at weekends but closes between 3 and 5 pm. Like most attractions in Moscow, the rink is closed on Mondays. 

The prices range from 350-650₽ and go up in the evening, which is the best time for the light show. Arriving at 5 pm, just as the rink opens for the evening session will give you time to find your ice legs before it fills up with more confident skaters.

Whilst waiting for the rink to open, try out the nearby tubing track where you can shoot down a snowy hill on an inflatable ring repeatedly for a very enjoyable half an hour!

How to get to Gorky Park by metro

The nearest metro is Park Kultury Station, on the other side of the river. As always, check out in advance what this looks like in the Russian Alphabet so you know when to get off!

Bolshoi Theatre

James Ian at Travel Collecting : one of the best places to go in Moscow is the famous Bolshoi Theater, located only a short walk from Red square. Bolshoy means big in Russian, and the theatre is not only big but also beautiful.

There are two ways to see the theater: on a guided tour or by watching a performance .

Take a guided tour

• English tours are held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 11:30 am. Tickets for these tours can be bought (on the same day) at the ticket office located in the Historic building of the theatre (door #12).
• A ticket costs 2000₽ per person, tours last one hour, and the number of people on a tour is limited to a maximum of 20. The tour takes you inside the theater and to the historic main stage.

Watch a performance

My favorite way to see the theater, though, is to enjoy a performance and experience the theater as a patron.

The entrance is a little underwhelming when you first arrive, the street lobby is small and quite plain and you will be immediately directed up to your floor.

There are helpful attendants on each floor to guide you to the correct door. Arrive a little early and head up to the Grand Salon on the top floor where you can enjoy a glass of champagne while people-watching (Russians dress up for the theater).

Then head to your seat and take in the stunning theater before enjoying the famous Bolshoi Ballet or another performance.

Be sure to book a show at the historic stage, there is a modern stage as well but that isn't nearly as much fun.

Moscow itinerary day 3

Karen from WanderlustingK : one of the most interesting Moscow places to visit is the Izmailovsky Market .

This flea market and tourist attraction a bit outside of the tourist center is a recreation of a Tzar’s Palace, known as a Kremlin, produced in a colorful 16th-century style.

The market is filled with tiny stalls that sell everything from snacks to kitsch to authentic items from Soviet times such as hats, pins, and other pieces of memorabilia.

You'll also find authentic antiques such as vases, paintings, and other religious items if you're looking to splurge within the interior parts of the market.

Negotiating in English is not always possible as many vendors only speak Russian, so be sure to practice your Russian numbers and see how well you can do with haggling.

It's important to carry cash when you visit given that many vendors do not accept cards. We ended up purchasing a series of hats at the market, along with a beautiful hot tea glass with a metal holder with a typical Russian scene.

Elsewhere in the market, you’ll also find a few tourist shops that sell typical Russian products. It takes a few hours to see the market in full, so arrive early as the best items go quickly! 

Lindsey from Have Clothes, Will Travel : Bunker-42 was once a top-secret, Soviet military complex. Stalin commissioned its construction after the United States succeeded in creating a nuclear bomb.

An impressive 65 meters (or about 213 feet) underground, was the desired depth to protect Russia’s top officials from a nuclear attack.

Bunker 42 became operational in 1954. Fortunately, it was never needed for its true purpose, and instead it was used as the command center of strategic bombers for nearly 30 years.

Nowadays it's a museum dedicated to the Cold War and visiting is a truly unique experience!

You will need to join a tour in order to see the museum. You can call ahead to book your tour (the number is: +7 499 703-44-55), there are several English tours throughout the day that are held at 13:30, 16:30, and 18:30 (the price is 2200₽).

On Mondays, there is an extra tour at 17:30, which lasts an additional 30 minutes and costs 2800₽ per person. There is also the option to book a private tour. However, I am unsure of the price for this.

You will have to wait until exactly 15 minutes before your tour begins before you'll be admitted inside. After paying for your tickets and a quick restroom stop you will descend 65 meters underground…

Another option for visiting Bunker-42, if you would rather not do the tour, is to visit the restaurant inside Bunker-42. Actually, I highly recommend visiting the restaurant before or after a tour as well!

While the food is not that great, it’s worth visiting for a drink. The restaurant is also located within the bunker and is decorated in the old Soviet style.

From time to time there will be live performances and visiting Bunker 42 is definitely an experience worth having while in Moscow! After all, how many people can say they've had a drink in a top-secret Soviet military bunker?

If you’re visiting Moscow during peak season (June-July-August), it would be worth making a reservation, to avoid having to wait. Otherwise, I would not say you need to worry about a reservation at the restaurant.

Bunker-42 is a short cab ride away from Red Square (10-15 minutes). But I recommend taking the metro to get there. The closest station is Taganskaya, which is a beautiful metro station very much worth visiting.

Park Zaryad'ye or Zaryadye Park is a lovely place for a stroll and a nice place to relax after a day of sightseeing in Moscow, especially when exploring Moscow with kids.

There are many things to see and do in this park, but I recommend starting your visit at The River Overlook , a 70-meter-long boardwalk with beautiful views over the river and the Kremlin.

Other interesting places to visit in Zaryadye Park are the Ice Cave, The Museum of Nature, and The Glass Crust. But most importantly, do as the Muscovites do and find yourself a nice place in the park to sit down and relax.

Enjoy the view, do some people-watching, and take a moment to think back about all the Moscow top sights you've seen in the past couple of days.

Where to stay in Moscow

There is a huge amount of hotels in Moscow, ranging from budget hostels to exquisite 5-star hotels. Below you can find three well-reviewed Moscow hotels (rating of 8.5+ on Agoda and  Booking ).

3-star hotel in Moscow: MIRROS Hotel Mokhovaya

This 3-star hotel is one of the best budget Moscow hotels and is all about location! From the hotel, it's just a 10-minute walk to the Kremlin and only 600 meters to the Christ the Savior Cathedral.

Set in a historic 19th-century mansion, the hotel features classic rooms with ensuite bathrooms.

The staff is friendly and there is a metro station nearby (Borovitskaya), making it easy to get to the Moscow attractions a bit further afield.

Click here to book

Modern hotel in Moscow: Barin Residence Myasnitskaya

The Barin Residence Myasnitskaya is a newly built hotel, located about 1.2km from the Red Square (about a 15-20 minute walk).

The rooms and bathrooms are very modern and clean, the beds are comfortable and room service is available. This hotel is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a nice hotel without a hefty price tag.

Luxury hotel in Moscow: Hotel National Moscow

Hotel National is potentially the best Moscow hotel. It's a gorgeous 5-star hotel located just a stone's throw away from the Bolshoi Theater, the Red Square, and the Kremlin.

The building was designed by architect Alexander Ivanov and completed in 1903 and has been welcoming international travelers ever since.

With its imperial architecture, luxury design, and charming classic rooms (some with a view of the Kremlin!), the Hotel National is a unique property.

Furthermore, you can enjoy an indoor pool, sauna, and fitness center as well as the well-reviewed Beluga restaurant that serves both Russian and European dishes.

While this hotel doesn't come cheap, your stay at the Hotel National will make your trip to Moscow an unforgettable experience.

Moscow itinerary and travel guide: in conclusion

I hope this guide to Moscow will help you plan a trip to this interesting Russian city. Feel free to ask any questions you may have by leaving a comment or  sending me an email !

Below you can find my other posts about the Trans Mongolian Express , and the stops we made along the way:

• St. Petersburg itinerary
• Irkutsk and Lake Baikal itinerary
• Ulaanbaatar itinerary
• Trans-Mongolian Express travel guide

This post was updated in December 2020.