10 Reasons to Fall for the Charm of Moscow in 2025
raisons de visiter Moscou en 2025
In 2019, I embarked on one of the most memorable journeys of my life: I traveled across Russia on the Trans-Siberian Railway.Over the course of three months, I had the chance to visit parts of the country that even many Russians don't know about. I loved this experience, the culture, and the people. Unfortunately, since 2019, a lot has changed internationally. The COVID-19 crisis and the conflict in Ukraine have made travel to this part of the world difficult, even for people like me, who speak Russian and have close ties with the country.I want to emphasize that, for me, what is happening on the global stage right now does not reflect the beauty and generosity of the Russian people. If, like me, you're eager to (re)visit Moscow (or another part of Russia), this article is for you.
Table of Contents
raisons de visiter Moscou en 2024
raisons de visiter Moscou en 2024
How to get to Moscow in 2025
Let’s start from the beginning. Before visiting Moscow, you need to figure out how to get there. Since 2022, travel options to the Russian capital have been limited. They still exist, but travel times are much longer than they used to be. I used to fly Strasbourg Frankfurt – Moscow, a total of 6 hours. This time, the journey took 24 hours, including 9 hours of flight (Strasbourg – Istanbul – Moscow).
Flying to Moscow
Flying will always be the fastest way to on plainsHowever, you should prepare for a rather long journey.The number of airports that still have connections with Russia is limited. Among them are Istanbul (Turkey), Belgrade (Serbia), and Minsk (Belarus). There are others, but these are the closest to Western Europe. I personally tested the France – Istanbul – Moscow route, which gave me the opportunity to explore Istanbul’s Sultanahmet neighborhood.
The airlines that offer flights from Istanbul to Moscow include Aeroflot, S7, Pobeda, UralAir, Turkish Airlines, and Pegasus Airlines. The flight takes about 5 hours. I strongly recommend planning at least one night in Istanbul if you decide to take this route. Not only is it worth visiting this part of the world, but Istanbul’s Havalimani airport is enormous, and you’ll need time to go through security, pick up your luggage(if you're not traveling light),and go through customs again. I met several people on my last trip who had allowed 3 hours between flights and still ended up being late.
Traveling to Moscow by train, bus, or car
raisons de visiter Moscou en 2025
Let’s be honest—travelling to Moscow by means other than flying is complicated in 2025. However, if you prefer not to fly, you can also reach Moscow “by land,” though it will require patience.
From Europe, Russia shares land borders with EU countries such as Finland, Estonia, Latvia, and also Lithuania and Poland (with Kaliningrad). However, before heading to the border, check the current situation. Make sure that the border will be open during your travel period.
Finland, for example, has closed its land borders with Russia until further notice. As for Latvia, the country has closed two out of four border crossings as of May 2024.
To my knowledge (without having tested it myself), the fastest overland route would be to go to Lithuania and take the Kaliningrad – Moscow train from Vilnius. Train journeys have their charm, and you’ll have a rich experience on such a long journey. However, I strongly recommend taking all necessary precautions and checking the political situation and safety conditions before setting off.
Why visit Moscow?
Moscow offers countless reasons to visit in 2025. Its historical and architectural heritage is unparalleled. The city’s rich culture is expressed through its many museums, theaters, and art galleries, while its diverse gastronomic scene presents culinary experiences from all corners of the former USSR. Moscow is also famous for its stunning parks, vibrant local markets, and dynamic nightlife. Despite the current political climate, the hospitality of Muscovites and the city’s modernity add to its charm, making each visit unforgettable and enriching.
The Rich Historical Heritage of Moscow
Moscow is a city with an incomparable heritage. At 875 years old, the city is a treasure trove of architecture, culture, and history. Founded in 1147, Moscow has endured through different eras and regimes, wars and invasions, from the tsars to the Soviets, to become the cultural and political heart of modern Russia.
Moscow’s heritage also extends to its impressive museums, such as the Tretyakov Gallery and the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts, which house invaluable art collections. Every monument, cobbled street, and ancient building testifies to the city's complex and fascinating history, making Moscow an open-air museum where the past and present harmoniously coexist.
Moscow's Iconic Architecture
raisons de visiter Moscou en 2025
Moscow’s architecture is simply spectacular. You’ve probably seen photos of St. Basil’s Cathedral with its colorful domes or the famous Kremlin and Red Square. But do you know about Stalin's buildings or Khrushchev’s buildings? The former, also known as the "Stalinist skyscrapers," were built between 1952 and 1955 at the initiative of Joseph Stalin. In Moscow, there are seven such buildings, also called "The Seven Sisters of Moscow." Some are used as administrative offices or part of Moscow University’s campus, while others remain residential buildings. I’ve always dreamed of having an apartment in one of them, but I imagine I’d need to organize a few more trips to afford one.
In a completely different but equally emblematic style, you'll find Khrushchev buildings (or Khrushchyovka). These are brick residential buildings, typically three to five stories high, built quickly in the early 1960s to prioritize simplicity and low cost. While they may not be as aesthetically pleasing as Stalin's buildings, these apartments are still a symbol of Moscow.
Moscow's Religious Heritage
Moscow offers iconic places of worship. The Cathedral of Christ the Savior, with its golden dome dominating Moscow's skyline, symbolizes the resilience and faith of Russian Orthodoxy. The Novodevichy Convent,a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reflects the spiritual and architectural grandeur of imperial Russia.
Walking through the Kremlin, one discovers religious treasures like the Assumption Cathedral and the Archangel Michael Cathedral, illustrating the evolution of Russian sacred art and architecture. These sites, among others, make Moscow an essential destination for understanding the richness of Russian religious heritage.
Moscow's Theatrical and Artistic Scene
raisons de visiter Moscou en 2025
Moscow is a vibrant epicentre for art and theater lovers. The city is home to some of the world’s most prestigious theaters, including the legendaryBolshoi Theatre,famous for its internationally renowned ballets and operas. Unfortunately, it’s now quite difficult to get a reasonably priced ticket for the Bolshoi. The last time I managed to see a ballet there was in 2013, and I have fond memories of it, but today the prices are very high, despite the reduced number of tourists in the city.
However, don’t be discouraged. Moscow offers dozens of incredible theater venues where you can watch ballets, operas, or musicals. My favorites are the "Moscow Operetta State Academic Theatre" and the grand stage of the Kremlin Palace..
If you enjoy museums, Moscow will also delight you. In addition to its classical productions, Moscow boasts a flourishing contemporary art scene. With galleries like the Tretyakov Gallery, the Pushkin Gallery, and the Moscow Museum of Modern Art, which feature works by both Russian and international artists, there’s something for everyone.
The Moskva River
Like many great cities, Moscow was founded along a river—the Moskva River. It is the aquatic heart of the city, winding through it and offering picturesque views of its iconic monuments. The banks of the Moskva are lined with parks, promenades, and landscaped quays, perfect for family walks or romantic outings.
River cruises allow you to see Moscow from a different perspective, passing by the Kremlin, the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, and the Stalinist skyscrapers. I took one such cruise in 2019 and have very fond memories of it. In just a few hours, you enjoy a delicious meal, a show, a dance floor, and stunning night views of Moscow. The river also plays a vital role in transport and commerce, connecting the capital to other regions of Russia.
raisons de visiter Moscou en 2024
Parks and Green Spaces
One thing I particularly love about Moscow is its greenery. Despite its urban dynamism, the city offers an abundance of parks and green spaces, allowing residents and visitors to recharge in nature’s heart. Gorky Park, located in the city center, is a popular spot for its impeccable gardens, bike paths, and many cultural and sports activities. If you visit Moscow in winter, you might be surprised to find that parts of Gorky Park are transformed into a giant ice rink. You can skate among the trees and stop for hot chocolate, which is very much appreciated by sports enthusiasts like myself.
Kolomenskoye Park, once a royal residence, offers an immersion into history with its ancient churches and open-air museums, all while offering spectacular views of the Moskva River. These green oases are essential for the well-being of Muscovites and add to the city’s beauty and vibrancy.
VDNKh Park in Moscow
raisons de visiter Moscou en 2025
VDNKh Park is a vast complex that celebrates the history, culture, and scientific achievements of the USSR. Its name stands for the Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy. The park is made up of exhibition and leisure pavilions and was inaugurated in 1939. Today, it is an open-air museum showcasing the glory of the Soviet era. You’ll find themed pavilions representing the Soviet republics and various industrial sectors. VDNKh also offers lush gardens, monumental fountains, and interactive museums. Today, it’s a popular meeting place for families and tourists, with temporary exhibitions, festivals, and outdoor activities year-round.
Like Gorky Park, you’ll also find outdoor ice rinks here during the winter.
Moscow's Nightlife
Moscow’s nightlife is dynamic and eclectic, offering a wide range of options for all tastes and moods. From trendy bars to sophisticated clubs, the Russian capital never sleeps. Iconic spots like Soho Rooms and Propaganda attract partygoers with great music and lively atmospheres. Culture lovers can enjoy theater performances, concerts, and artistic shows at legendary venues like the Bolshoi or the Moscow Art Theatre. Whether you want to dance until dawn or just sip a cocktail in an elegant setting, Moscow’s nightlife has something for everyone.
The Space Museum
One of my favorite places in Moscow is perhaps lesser-known to tourists: the Space Quarter, just a few steps from the VDNKh metro station. Here, you’ll find the Space Museum, celebrating space exploration with many precious objects from this pivotal moment in world history.
Across from the metro is the Cosmos Hotel, built for the 1980 Moscow Olympics and one of the city’s largest hotels today. The square in front of the hotel is named "General de Gaulle Square," where you’ll also find a large statue of the general.
The Moscow Metro
We arrive at the final stop on this list, but it’s likely the first place you’ll visit when traveling to Moscow. The Moscow Metro is far more than just a public transportation system—it’s an architectural and artistic masterpiece. Opened in 1935, the Moscow Metro is famous for its lavishly decorated stations, often compared to underground palaces. Each station has its own style, adorned with mosaics, sculptures, frescoes, and impressive chandeliers. Beyond its beauty, the metro is also one of the most efficient and extensive systems in the world, transporting millions of passengers daily across the vast metropolis.
There are guided tours of the Moscow Metro, given how spectacular its stations are. Personally, I’m always impressed by the politeness of passengers whenever I use the metro. Even during rush hours, getting on and off the trains is done in an organized manner. Passengers are also courteous, giving up their seats to the elderly and helping those in need to carry their luggage on the stairs. This may seem obvious, but it’s not always the case everywhere.
10 reasons to visit Moscow in 2025
With its rich historical heritage, vibrant art scene, impressive parks and green spaces, and bustling nightlife, Moscow offers an unforgettable travel experience. I hope the 10 reasons mentioned in this article have inspired you to visit this city, which holds a special place in my heart, despite the difficult political context. In the second part, I will provide practical tips on where to stay, how to get around, and what to do. In the meantime, I hope I’ve sparked your curiosity. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover the soul of Moscow. And of course, if you need help, feel free to reach out to my travel planning services.
ainsi cependant finalement donc à priori en outre. En fin, puisque, cependant, donc, mais.
For more useful information
To find your plane ticket :
I can recommend you use ExpediaI trust them with my own travels and when I am working with clients
For your hotel reservation
I invite you to look into Hotels.fr they have a large choice of bookings and your client services are always available
Pour trouver des activités sur place :
I use either viator or GetYourGuideThe two plateforms offer a large choice of activities at reasonable prices
To rent a car
I recommend discovercarsTheir prices are competitive and they have a great customer service
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