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There are great many landmarks in Europe
, and so are in Russia.Russia’s landscape is adorned with a plethora of majestic landmarks that embody the country’s rich cultural history and natural beauty.
From the iconic onion domes of St.
Basil’s Cathedral to the colossal statue of Motherland Calls, Russia’s landmarks stand proud and tall, as if to serve as a constant reminder of the nation’s unparalleled spirit and grandeur.
1. The Red Square – Moscow
Famous city square in Moscow, Russia.
What to see or do: – Explore the iconic St. Basil’s Cathedral with its colorful onion domes.
Don’t miss: – The daily changing of the guards ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Insider travel tips: – Try to visit the square early in the morning or in the evening to avoid crowds.
2. The Kremlin – Moscow
The Kremlin is a fortified complex located in the heart of Moscow and serves as the official residence of the President of Russia.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the historic buildings and churches within the Kremlin walls, including the Assumption Cathedral and the Ivan the Great Bell Tower.
The iconic Red Square is also located within the Kremlin complex.
Don’t miss: The Armoury Chamber, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts and treasures of the Russian Tsars, including Fabergé eggs and coronation robes.
Insider travel tips: To avoid crowds, consider visiting the Kremlin early in the morning or on a weekday. Make sure to book tickets in advance and dress appropriately as the dress code is strict.
3. The Hermitage Museum – St
One of the largest and oldest museums in the world, founded by Catherine the Great in 1764.
The Hermitage Museum is made up of six historic buildings, including the Winter Palace, and is home to over 3 million works of art and artifacts from around the world.
What to see or do: Explore the impressive collections of European paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and antiquities, including works by renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci.
Don’t miss the stunning interiors of the Winter Palace, with its opulent decor and lavish halls.
Don’t miss: The collection of Fabergé eggs on display, created for the Russian imperial family between 1885 and 1917. And be sure to check out the Peacock Clock, a masterpiece of 18th-century engineering and design.
Insider travel tips: Buy your tickets in advance to avoid long lines, and consider hiring a private tour guide to get the most out of your visit.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved, and plan to spend at least a full day exploring the museum.
4. The Winter Palace – St
A grand palace complex that served as the official residence for the Russian monarchs from 1732 to 1917.
What to see or do: Marvel at the intricate Baroque and Neoclassical architecture, visit the collection of over three million art and artifact pieces at the State Hermitage Museum, and take a stroll through the Palace Square.
Don’t miss: The stunning Grand Staircase, adorned with gold and marble, and the Small Hermitage, a lavish room covered in gold leaf with a collection of paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Van Dyck.
Insider travel tips: Visit the Winter Palace during the winter months for a special treat – the exterior is lit up in an enchanting light display at night.
Also, get there early to avoid crowds and consider purchasing tickets in advance to skip the lines.
5. Catherine Palace – Pushkin
A grand and opulent palace located in the town of Pushkin, just outside of St. Petersburg, Russia.
What to see or do: Marvel at the palace’s stunning Baroque architecture, intricate interiors adorned with gold leaf and amber, and beautiful gardens. Don’t miss the Great Hall with its stunning ceiling frescoes, the ornate Amber Room, and the picturesque Cameron Gallery.
Don’t miss: The Amber Room, a stunning chamber decorated entirely with amber panels, mirrors, and gold leaf. It was created in the 18th century and later lost during World War II.
The room was painstakingly recreated in 2003 and is now open for visitors to admire.
Insider travel tips: – Tickets to the palace can sell out quickly, especially in the summer months, so be sure to book in advance.
6. Peterhof Palace and Park – Peterhof
A magnificent 18th-century palace and park complex located on the Gulf of Finland in Saint Petersburg, Russia.
What to see or do: – Explore the stunning Grand Palace with its ornate interiors and impressive collection of artwork and antique furniture.
Don’t miss: – The daily fountain show in the Grand Cascade, where water jets shoot up to 20 meters high accompanied by classical music and colored lights.
Insider travel tips: – To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
7. Church of the Savior on Blood – St
A Russian Orthodox church built on the site where Tsar Alexander II was assassinated in 1881.
What to see or do: Admire the colorful onion domes and intricate mosaics that adorn the church’s exterior and interior. Take a guided tour to learn about the church’s history and the events that led to its construction.
Don’t miss: The church’s elaborate interior mosaics, which cover over 7,000 square meters and depict scenes from the Bible and Russian history.
Insider travel tips: The church can get very crowded with tourists, so consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Photography is not allowed inside the church, so be sure to capture your memories from the exterior. Be aware that dress codes are strictly enforced, and visitors must cover their heads and wear modest clothing.
8. Nevsky Prospekt – St
Nevsky Prospekt is the main street and heart of St. Petersburg, spanning from the Admiralty building to the Alexander Nevsky Monastery.
What to see or do: Explore the stunning architecture, historic landmarks, luxury shops, and vibrant nightlife along the avenue. Admire the iconic landmarks like the Hermitage Museum, Kazan Cathedral, and the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood.
Don’t miss: Stop by the bustling Gostiny Dvor for shopping and food stalls, marvel at the grandeur of the Eliseevsky store, and take a stroll through the trendy Palace Square.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, visit Nevsky Prospekt early in the morning or late at night. Take the time to visit some of the lesser-known museums and shops along the way.
And, be sure to try traditional Russian cuisine at one of the many restaurants or cafes.
9. Kazan Cathedral – St
A magnificent Russian Orthodox Cathedral located in Saint Petersburg, Russia.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning neoclassical architecture, including its iconic colonnade and central dome. Marvel at the intricate frescoes and mosaics that decorate the interior.
Attend one of the daily religious services held at the cathedral.
Don’t miss: Visiting the crypt where the remains of several notable figures, including Russian Emperors and military leaders, are interred. Climbing the cathedral’s colonnade for panoramic views of Saint Petersburg.
Insider travel tips: To avoid crowds, plan to visit early in the day. Photography is not allowed inside the cathedral, but you can take photos of the exterior and from the colonnade.
Dress modestly and be respectful of the religious services taking place.
10. The Bolshoi Theatre – Moscow
One of the world’s most famous opera and ballet theatres, located in the heart of Moscow.
What to see or do: Attend a world-class performance of ballet or opera, admire the stunning neoclassical architecture of the building’s façade, take a guided tour of the theatre’s historic halls and backstage areas.
Don’t miss: The Bolshoi’s annual New Year’s Eve Gala, a grandiose celebration of arts and culture that attracts visitors from all over the world.
Insider travel tips: Book your tickets well in advance to secure the best seats and avoid disappointment. Consider taking a backstage tour to gain a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the theatre’s rich history and artistic achievements.
Dress code is formal attire, so dress to impress.
11. Moscow State University – Moscow
Moscow State University is a renowned and historic university in Moscow, Russia.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the impressive architecture of the university buildings and stroll around the beautiful landscaped gardens. The main building offers stunning views of the city.
Don’t miss: Be sure to see the Lenin statue at the entrance of the university and explore the various faculties and departments of the campus.
Insider travel tips: Take a guided tour of the campus to learn about the university’s history and significance in Russian education. The best time for a visit is during weekdays, when you can witness the bustling student life on campus.
12. The Moscow Metro Stations – Moscow
A system of intricately designed metro stations in Moscow that serve as a popular tourist attraction.
What to see or do: Take a ride through the Moscow Metro to see the stunning architecture and artwork of each station. Each station has its own unique style, ranging from grandiose chandeliers and marble columns to mosaics and sculptures.
Don’t miss: Some of the most notable stations include Komsomolskaya, adorned with mosaics and pillars depicting Russian historical scenes; Novoslobodskaya, featuring ornate stained-glass windows and shiny copper fixtures; and Mayakovskaya, one of the grandest stations with its Art Deco style and soaring ceilings.
Insider travel tips: As the Moscow Metro can be extremely crowded during peak hours, it’s best to visit outside of rush hour times (8-10 am, 5-7 pm).
To get the most out of the experience, consider taking a guided tour or researching the history of each station before you go.
Keep in mind that photography is allowed, but it’s important to be respectful of other passengers and avoid blocking foot traffic in the busy stations.
13. Novodevichy Convent – Moscow
Novodevichy Convent is an Orthodox convent dating back to the 16th century, located in Moscow, Russia.
What to see or do: Explore the stunning architecture of the convent buildings, including the five-domed Smolensk Cathedral, the baroque-style Church of the Transfiguration, and the Bell Tower.
Visit the burial place of famous Russians such as Boris Godunov and Anton Chekhov.
Don’t miss: The cemetery, where many notable Russians such as Nikita Khrushchev, Raisa Gorbachev, and Sergei Prokofiev are buried. Admire the stunning views of the Moscow skyline from the convent’s walls.
Insider travel tips: Avoid visiting on weekends as it can get very crowded. Consider taking a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and significance of the convent.
Don’t forget to dress modestly as it is still an active religious site.
14. The Peter and Paul Fortress – St
The Peter and Paul Fortress is a famous historical landmark located in St. Petersburg, Russia.
It was built in the 18th century to defend the city, but it is now a popular tourist attraction.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a tour of the fortress and see the various exhibits and museums inside.
One of the most popular attractions is the Peter and Paul Cathedral, which houses the tombs of many Russian tsars, including Peter the Great.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to walk along the fortress walls and take in the views of the city and the Neva River.
Additionally, the fortress is home to a beach where visitors can relax and enjoy the sun.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to arrive early in the day to avoid the crowds, and consider booking a tour with a guide to learn more about the fascinating history of this important site.
Additionally, there are often special events and exhibitions happening at the fortress, so be sure to check the schedule before you go.
15. The St
A luxurious 5-star hotel in the heart of midtown Manhattan, known for its impeccable service and elegant accommodations.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through Central Park, located just a few blocks away from the hotel. Visit the Museum of Modern Art, a short walk from the property, to view world-renowned contemporary art.
Enjoy a Broadway show or a concert at Carnegie Hall, both conveniently located nearby.
Don’t miss: The King Cole Bar & Salon, a classic New York establishment located within the hotel. Sample their famous Bloody Mary, said to be the world’s best, and enjoy live jazz music on select evenings.
Insider travel tips: While the hotel offers a variety of dining options, venture outside to experience some of the city’s best restaurants, such as Le Bernardin or Eleven Madison Park, both within walking distance.
Make use of the hotel’s complimentary shoe shine service before a night out on the town.
And be sure to take advantage of the butler service, available 24 hours a day to ensure your stay is nothing short of extraordinary.
16. GUM Department Store – Moscow
GUM Department Store is a historic and iconic shopping center located in the heart of Moscow, just across the Red Square.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the luxurious shops and boutiques with a wide range of products such as clothes, jewelry, souvenirs, gadgets, and food.
Additionally, you can admire the incredible architecture, including the glass-roofed galleries, fountains, and intricate details that evoke a grandeur of the past.
Don’t miss: The ice cream from the famous Soviet-era ice cream parlor ‘Уголек’ (UgoLek) is a must-try when at the GUM Department Store.
They also have several restaurants and cafes to satiate your appetite while shopping.
Insider travel tips: Though a popular tourist spot, GUM can get very crowded. Visit early in the morning to avoid big crowds.
Also, if you are interested in purchasing souvenirs, be sure to negotiate the price with vendors, as prices can be marked up for tourists.
17. Manezhnaya Square – Moscow
Manezhnaya Square is a historic public square in the heart of Moscow, located next to the famous Red Square.
What to see or do: Visit the centerpiece of the square, the Manezhnaya Square Shopping Center, which features a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Admire the bronze statues depicting the famous Russian military commander, Kutuzov, and the diplomat, Pozharsky.
Watch the changing of the guard ceremony at the Eternal Flame in honor of World War II victims.
Don’t miss: The beautiful views of the Kremlin, the Red Square, and St. Basil’s Cathedral from the square.
Catch a performance at the State Academic Maly Theatre or the Estrada Theatre.
Insider travel tips: Visit Manezhnaya Square at night to see the illuminations and the fountain next to the shopping center. Attend the annual Christmas fair during December for a festive experience.
Avoid visiting during rush hour to avoid crowds.
18. Lenin’s Mausoleum – Moscow
A mausoleum housing the embalmed body of Soviet revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin.
What to see or do: Visitors can enter the mausoleum to view the preserved body of Lenin lying in a glass sarcophagus. The interior architecture of the mausoleum is also noteworthy, featuring red granite walls and a black-veiled ceiling.
Don’t miss: The changing of the guard ceremony that takes place every hour outside the mausoleum.
Insider travel tips: Photography and filming inside the mausoleum are strictly prohibited. Visitors must also adhere to a strict dress code and cannot bring in bags, cameras, or any other personal items.
It is also recommended to arrive early in the morning to avoid long queues, as entry is free but tends to get crowded.
19. The Church of Intercession at Fili – Moscow
The Church of Intercession at Fili is a stunning Russian Orthodox church located in the Fili-Davydkovo District of Moscow.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the beautiful facade and intricate interior of the church, which features colorful frescoes and intricate iconostasis. Attend a service to experience the religious and cultural significance of the church.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the subterranean crypt beneath the church, which houses the remains of the Davydov family, who contributed greatly to the construction of the church.
Insider travel tips: – Dress modestly when visiting the church, as it is an active place of worship.
20. The Ostankino Tower – Moscow
The Ostankino Tower is a radio and television broadcasting tower in Moscow, Russia. It is the tallest freestanding structure in Europe and the fifth tallest tower in the world.
What to see or do: Visitors can take an elevator to the observation deck and enjoy panoramic views of Moscow. The observation deck also features a small museum with exhibits about the tower’s construction and history.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the tower at night when it is brilliantly lit up. The observation deck is also a great place to watch the fireworks displays during major holidays like New Year’s Eve.
Insider travel tips: – Purchase tickets in advance to avoid long queues at the tower.
21. The Moscow Zoo – Moscow
The Moscow Zoo is a popular zoo located in the heart of Moscow. It is home to over 8,000 animals of 1,000 species from all over the world.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the exhibits and see animals such as tigers, bears, elephants, penguins, and many more. There are also interactive exhibits for children, such as the petting zoo and monkey house.
Visitors can learn about animal conservation efforts and explore the zoo’s historical buildings.
Don’t miss: The Snowy Owl exhibit is a must-see, as these magnificent birds are unique to the region and beautifully showcased. Visitors should also stop by the Elephant House to see the zoo’s impressive collection of elephants up close.
Insider travel tips: – The zoo is open year-round, but the best time to visit is in the summer when the weather is warm and the animals are more active.
22. The Moscow Planetarium – Moscow
The Moscow Planetarium is a popular attraction in Moscow, featuring interactive exhibits and shows about astronomy and space.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the permanent exhibits, which include a collection of meteorites and interactive displays about the cosmos. The planetarium also hosts daily shows in its dome-shaped theater, which use advanced technology to create immersive experiences.
Don’t miss: Be sure to catch the “Journey to the Stars” show, a stunning multimedia presentation that takes viewers on a virtual tour of the universe.
Outside the planetarium, visitors can also enjoy the picturesque surrounding park and walk by the Moscow River.
Insider travel tips: – Book tickets for shows in advance, as they can sell out quickly.
23. The Ostankino Palace – Moscow
A historic palace located in Moscow, Russia.
What to see or do: Visitors to the Ostankino Palace can tour the various rooms and halls of the grand palace, including the Ballroom, the Banqueting Hall, and the Picture Gallery.
The palace also houses several museums exhibiting art, ceramics, and porcelain.
Don’t miss: Be sure to catch a glimpse of the spectacular crystal chandeliers, intricate tapestries, and other royal decorations that adorn the palace.
You can also enjoy a stroll around the beautiful French-style gardens on the palace grounds.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to book your ticket in advance to avoid waiting in long lines. Guided tours are available in multiple languages, including English.
Keep in mind that photography is not allowed in some parts of the palace.
Lastly, if you have an interest in the royal history of Russia, the Ostankino Palace is an essential stop on your Moscow itinerary.
24. The Yekaterinburg-City Tower – Yekaterinburg
A multifunctional skyscraper and the tallest building in Ekaterinburg, Russia, with a height of 188 meters and 54 floors.
What to see or do: Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck on the 52nd floor. Additionally, the building houses offices, restaurants, a hotel, and a shopping center.
Don’t miss: The dynamic lighting display on the facade of the building at night, which is especially impressive during major events and holidays.
Insider travel tips: Purchase tickets to the observation deck in advance online or at the ticket office to avoid long queues. If you have extra time, explore the nearby Vysotsky Business Center, another modern skyscraper in the area.
25. The Peter the Great Statue – Moscow
A 98-meter tall statue of Peter the Great, located on the Moskva River in Moscow.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a closer look at the statue and appreciate its impressive size and scale, as well as the intricate details of the figure and its surroundings.
Don’t miss: The stunning view of the statue and the surrounding area from the river, which can be enjoyed on a boat tour or river cruise.
Insider travel tips: Take the time to explore the nearby park and enjoy a picnic or leisurely stroll. Additionally, consider visiting the statue at night to see it illuminated in all its glory.
26. The Vorontsov Palace – Alupka
A stunning palace built in the 19th century located in the town of Alupka, Crimea.
What to see or do: Explore the beautifully landscaped gardens, take a tour of the palace’s intricate architecture, and view the vast sea view from its terrace.
Don’t miss: The intricate details of the palace’s carved decorations and stunning wooden doors.
Insider travel tips: – Visit in the spring or summer to enjoy the beautiful gardens in full bloom.
27. The Alexander Column – St
The Alexander Column is a landmark monument located in Palace Square, St. Petersburg, Russia.
What to see or do: The monument consists of a red granite pedestal and a statue of a winged angel holding a cross. Visitors can admire the incredible height of the column, which stands at 47.
5 meters and weighs over 600 tons.
Don’t miss: The base of the column is decorated with intricate reliefs depicting the triumphal march of Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s army in the Patriotic War of 1812.
Insider travel tips: Visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about the column’s history and significance to the Russian people. It is also recommended to visit at night when the monument is splendidly illuminated.
Be sure to take some pictures with this iconic monument in the background!
28. The Monument to the Conquerors of Space – Moscow
The Monument to the Conquerors of Space is a prominent monument located in Moscow, Russia. The monument was built in 1964 to commemorate its achievement in the space race during the Soviet era.
What to see or do: The monument consists of a 110 meter tall obelisk made of titanium, which represents a spaceship soaring into the sky. The monument is surrounded by different statues and sculptures that depict the achievements of Russian space exploration.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the sculpture of Yuri Gagarin, the first man to travel into space. The monument offers a great view of the nearby Cosmos Pavilion and Space Museum, which is also worth checking out.
Insider travel tips: Visit the monument at night when it’s lit up, creating a spectacular view.
You can also take a guided tour of the monument to learn more about its history and the significance of various sculptures.
Make sure to dress appropriately during the colder months as Moscow can get quite chilly.