Hotels in Moscow, Central, Russia

The beating heart of Russia, Moscow has been enthralling visitors for centuries. The sheer majesty of the city's architecture is enough to overwhelm. From the Kremlin's Armoury to the State Tretyakov Gallery, Moscow's art and cultural attractions are unrivalled. As a city that made history, you can traverse through time within minutes just by strolling the streets.

You can find excellent budget hotel options in Moscow which run the gamut of Soviet chic and modern boutique.

Neighbourhoods of Moscow‎

Moscow has plenty of fascinating neighbourhoods to explore‎:

• Kremlin & Kitay Gorod: The historical centre of the city is crammed with old architecture, churches and important monuments. From the Red Square to St Basil's Cathedral, this is often the starting point for visitors.
• Arbat & Khamovniki: These west-central neighbourhoods are rich in art and culture. Many of the city’s best galleries are located here, including the world-famous Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts. There are also very pretty walks along Moskva River beside the imposing Cathedral of Christ the Saviour.
• Meshchansky & Basmanny: The eastern central neighbourhoods contain a wealth of historical buildings, yet they maintain a more modern and forward-thinking aesthetic. You’ll find red-brick factory conversions hosting postmodern art galleries and start-ups, as well as laid-back cafes and eateries.
• Presnya: This large district to the northwest hosts a number of fine family-friendly attractions, including a zoo and planetarium. This is also where you’ll find the city’s top restaurants and luxurious hotels, located in and around modern skyscrapers.

What to see and do in Moscow‎

Russia's capital contains such a wealth of first-rate attractions that it's impossible to see them all. Starting in the centre, the Red Square, Kremlin, Armoury, Aleksandrovskiy Sad and Lenin's Mausoleum are all must-visits that can be tackled in a day. There are also world-beating museums, including the State Historical Museum, as well as a smattering of must-see galleries like the Tretyakov Gallery, Red October Gallery, Moscow Museum of Modern Art and Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts. If you're looking for a slice of retail therapy, the city's historic department store, GUM, is a spectacular experience. For a taste of Russia's performing heritage, stop by the Bolshoi Theatre or Tchaikovsky Concert Hall.

What to eat in Moscow‎

Moscow is a true foodie capital with everything from rustic regional restaurants to high-class haute-cuisine. Although you can pretty much find anything in Moscow, try local specialities like 'shchi (cabbage soup) and kasha (porridge). You can expect a range of hearty dishes, including zharkoye (hot pot), pemeni (dumplings) and borsch (beetroot soup), to replenish yourself in-between attractions. You'll also find a variety of restaurants from former Soviet republics, like Georgia and Uzbekistan. One of the most beloved foods in Moscow is khachapuri, a Georgian cheese bread.

Typical events and festivals in Moscow‎

Moscow celebrates a range of important Russian Orthodox events, as well as a rich programme of cultural festivals. Russian Christmas takes place on January 7 and sees the city transform into a winter wonderland. Another prominent celebration is Tatyana's Day, a student’s festival in January. Victory Day on May 9th sees parades and fireworks in Moscow's Red Square. An International Film Festival (April), Golden Mask Theatre Festival (March) and Chekhov International Theatre Festival (May) are also hosted in the city.

How to move around in Moscow‎

Moscow is served by an efficient and cheap metro network that will get you to all the major tourist sites with little hassle. If you'd like to book a taxi, you can do so via an app as hailing is not common.

The climate in Moscow‎

Moscow has a humid continental climate with comfortable, mild summers and cold, snowy winters which often dip below freezing.

More interesting facts about and sights in Moscow‎

Moscow's surrounds are host to a number of excellent attractions. One of the best is Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve, a palace built for Catherine the Great but unfinished during her lifetime. The museum features regal rooms and manicured gardens, easily accessible via the metro.