travel planners international mlm

Top 10 MLM Travel Companies

In today’s post, I am going to share the top 10 MLM Travel Companies , as I see it.

So many of us want to “live the dream.” Often, that dream entails traveling, but is there a way to travel and make money doing so?

According to many, there is! The way to do that they say is by becoming a member of a MLM Travel Company where you actually sell travel packages and recruit other members to do the same thing. In doing so, you can earn and win free travel and get paid at the same time.

I have decided to use various sources such as online and offline reviews to rate various MLM Travel Companies.

Keep in mind that I am not a member of any of these companies. The information you are receiving is unbiased and based simply on my opinion. I highly recommend that you research any company closely before deciding to join.

Now starting from #10, here are the top 10 MLM Travel Companies.

# 10: Coastal Travel Package

According to their website, this MLM Company is managed by a team of entrepreneurs. There are no names given, but I did do a WhoIs lookup and found the website created back in 2002. So this travel MLM company has been operating for quite some time.

What you do need to know is, “Coastal Vacations is NOT a seller of Travel and therefore is not licensed to sell travel. Coastal sells Travel and Travel Related Discount Packages that provide discounted access to many travel and travel related companies.”

I do see quite a few members offering the opportunity online.

Coastal Vacations is an association of entrepreneurs, professionals and home-based business owners dedicated to providing the highest quality vacation values and travel benefits on the market today, and making them available to their clients at rock-bottom prices. Source: Coastal Travel Package

# 9: Pro Travel Plus

Pro Travel Plus is actually quite new; started in 2015 the CEO is Seth Fraser who has been involved with several MLM Companies.

Pro Travel Plus is a lot like #10, they just offer discounted travel opportunities.  As a member you get perks like:

• $500 in travel vouchers
• Up to 45% savings on luxury vacations

I will say that the PTP website seems quite unprofessional and I am looking because I actually think the background picture is one I took last year at a beach here in Puerto Rico.

Essentially, Pro Travel Plus is similar to an affiliate program using a MLM business format.

# 8: GoodLife USA

Founded by Mark Seyforth and Edward Dovner, Goodlife USA is similar to the two previous MLM companies. It offers discounted services on travel vacations and lodging.

Both men have made their mark in MLM prior to starting this company. Seyforth partnered with Herbalife with a diet shake he developed and Dovner built a huge business with First Choice Armor & Equipment.

There are various membership opportunities and supposedly you can get huge savings. You can also make great compensation by signing up new members.

By eliminating all the middlemen from travel booking, we are able to offer Subscribers the absolute lowest possible price! Our partnerships with retailers, entertainment, travel wholesalers and other services return even more value for our Subscribers, and we’re constantly working to create more benefits for membership. We refuse to charge thousands of dollars for access to these savings as our competition does. That makes them not really competition at all… because you deserve value at a fair price from the first day you choose to live the good life! Source: GoodLife USA

# 7: Travelution

Just launched in 2016, we will see if this travel MLM will be a stud or a dud. Unlike the prior ones, Travelution turns you into a travel agent. You make commissions off travel sales and also from recruiting new agents.

The company is headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida and the founders are Dave Manning and Faraday Hosseinipour. Both have ample experience in MLM and travel.

Being a part of the Travelution Family has opened up so many doors for opportunities to travel to some absolutely amazing places. We are truly blessed to have also formed some wonderful friendships on the incredible FAM trips. We love to travel, and it’s great to tell clients about our experiences, and assist them in finding the perfect trip.. ~ Bobby and Vicki Lewallen, Master Travel Agent

# 6: Ibuumerang

Holton Buggs and David Manning teamed up together to found Ibuumerang. This company lets you share your travel website with potential customers. When they book travel they get nice discounts and you earn commissions. They offer a generous compensation plan and great training. The company is fairly new, but has grown rapidly in the past few months. They will definitely move their way up this list in the months to come.

Here at ibüümerang, you throw out good will and savings and you get rewarded with a  travel savings bonus in cash! The only way you can get paid is if  your customer saves money! A unique, very cool and fun way to earn additional income. Extra cash that can potentially become  a life changing opportunity! Source: Ibuumerang website

# 5: ROI Unlimited

At one time this company was based in Arizona, but I now see they have moved the headquarters to Boise, Idaho.

ROI Unlimited is a travel discount MLM Company and the founders were Fred Schwartz, CEO and Co-Founder and Brian Spangler, Co-Founder.

Depending on your membership level, you receive cards and perks to help you save on various travel vacations. And you can make money by enticing others to join.

The mission of ROI Unlimited is “to enhance and enrich the lives of its members through the collaborative efforts of all. To provide the highest quality products, services, support and financial opportunity possible and uphold its value with the up most level of integrity, honor and respect.” Source: NPROS.com

# 4: Global Travel International

Founded in 2001 in Orlando, Florida, Global Travel International was founded by Michael Gross and Randy Warren as a high quality travel MLM company.

Global Travel International offers cruises, vacation packages, business travel, as well as group and incentive trips. From my understanding, Global Travel pays outstanding commissions to independent travel agents.

You receive your own website and a host of training materials. You can make money by booking travel or referring new travel agent members.

Our mission is to provide individuals with money-saving travel deals to domestic and international destinations, and to provide individuals with necessary tools to become independent travel agents. Source: GlobalTravel.com Facebook page

# 3: Zyndio

Based in Scottsdale, Arizona, it seems that Zyndio and the Zyn Travel Portal are the work of entrepreneur Anthony Powell. Created in 2011, it seems that Zyndio provides extreme discounts on travel related services.

You have 3 choices when signing up which will allow you to travel cheaper and make money recruiting:

• Gold – $199.99
• Platinum – $499.99
• and Black Diamond – $999.99

Our goal is to make premier travel available to everyone, and empower our members with the tools to build incredible memories that will last forever. After all, money is transient, but adventures spent with family and friends is timeless. Source: ZynDio

# 2: Traverus Travel

Formerly known as Paycation, Traverus Travel has made huge strides as a travel MLM Company. Dave Manning founded Paycation back in 2004 and it has been growing steadily since. Some of the many benefits Traverus home-based business owners have…

• Access to the Success Travel Institute developed by DL Wallace and recognized around the world for its certified soft skills training.
• Earn on travel.
• Enroll in Xstream Travel University (XTU) and learn from top travel industry professionals.
• Get a professional website that you can refer to friends and family to book their travel.
• And a whole lot more!

With dynamic leadership and a compensation plan that seems to be loved by all, I had to make Traverus #1 on the list.

TraVerus Global Inc. was introduced as the new parent company of Paycation Travel, Xstream Travel and Xstream Holidays. These entities will continue to operate under the TraVerus Global brand as the company’s travel and leisure division.

# 1: World Ventures

With their headquarters in Plano, Texas, World Ventures is one of the biggest names in MLM Travel Companies.

I know there are many representatives quite happy with the money they have made selling World Ventures travel discounts and also recruiting other members. The company was started in 2005 by Wayne Nugent and Mike Azcue. World Ventures continues to be a top company in travel.

We’re a company built on the belief that work should be just as rewarding as it is enriching, and that progress is only possible when we’re growing together. Here, you have a voice. Here, you are part of our family. Source: World Ventures

Final Thoughts

What are your thoughts? I know that many MLM Travel Companies have had their share of negative reviews.

Have you used any of these MLM Travel Companies before? Are you a member of any? If so, please tell us about your experience. If you are interested in becoming a member of any of these MLM Travel Companies, the links are listed in the reference section below.

You can post your comments and questions below. But please, if you have something negative to say, be respectable and don’t use names or we will not allow it to be published. Thank you and have a great day.

Must Read Posts

• How to Get More MLM Leads
• How to Build Your MLM Business Online
• How to Evaluate a MLM Company
• My System for Building a Business
• Top HB Naturals Products

81 thoughts on “Top 10 MLM Travel Companies”

Travel vouchers, discount connections and commissions for independent travel agents are huge perks!! I love that you can earn on travel with Traverus Travel and learn from top industry professionals.

Yes, the travel industry is very lucrative. It’s a huge market and is very competitive, but there is also a lot of demand. If travel was my hot button (it’s not) I would have partnered up with one of these Travel MLM Companies.

Quite a good number to compare from. It is great having such to plan for a travel.

There are maybe 15-20 travel companies in the network marketing space that I know of. Competition is a good thing. Some are good, others are okay and a few are exceptional. I would tell anyone considering a MLM Travel Company to compare at least three different companies they like, do their due diligence and then partner up with the one that makes the most sense to them.

Travelution sounds like the right place to work, you can earn commissions and it seems the owners know exactly what they’re doing.

I’ve heard decent things about the company, but don’t know a lot about it. If you’re considering Travelution, I would encourage you to take a closer look and research the company. If you like what you see, pursue it. If not, check out some of the other travel companies on this list.

I know that travelling is not a priority now because of pandemic but once this crisis is over, I am sure that everyone will definitely want to travel again. Thanks for sharing this post.

The travel industry did take a hit for a few months, but it looks like things are starting to pick up. I’ve flown a couple times since the pandemic hit and both of my flights were fairly full. That’s a good thing. I’m sure it will rebound by early 2021.

Everyone loves to travel. That right there is a good enough motivation in putting up a business in this field. Of course there is more to it like the technical aspect etc etc but at the end of the day if this is your passion go for it.. I think it will bounce back once the smoke clears from this crisis.

The great thing about these Travel MLM Companies is you aren’t a traditional travel agent. For the most part, the company handles those things for you. Your job is to find customers and other business builders and the company handles the details. I think it’s a win win situation.

l would stick with the coastral travel package as l long to see the Bahamas and why not do business at the same time.

I’ve heard good things about Coastal Travel, but don’t know a lot about it. Do your homework and due diligence, and if it still makes sense to you, by all means do it.

I will most definitely share this list on my social media. It could potentially save someone out there.

Not sure what you mean by “save someone?” other than meaning saving them time from trying to research all of the Travel MLM Companies themselves.

With the current pandemic situation I think the travel sector has been hit bad. Maybe it’s a good idea to hold on for a bit?

In my own opinion, it’s best to join an industry when things are bad. That seems to be when the fortunes are made. It’s kind of like the stock market. Everyone wants in when it’s up and up. When it goes down, everyone does the exact opposite: they sell.

Yet, the investors who make the most money are the ones who buy during the bad times and sell during the good times.

Getting travel clients can be an uphill task. The travel agencies market is very competitive nowadays.

That is exactly why these Travel MLM Companies exist. The single biggest cost for most businesses is acquiring a new customer. Network marketing companies understand that. They also know that “word of mouth” advertising is the most effective form of advertising on the planet.

Travelution seems to be rather new having only started in 2016. My advice is to give it a few more years until it builds a reputation.

Yes, it’s still fairly new. New companies do present a high amount of risk, but also a high amount of opportunity. If you’re considering this company, do your homework first and if what you find makes sense, by all means pursue it.

I know a handful of people from Traverus Travel. From what I gather they are pretty happy with the company.

That’s awesome. Have you ever does business with them and purchase a travel package with them? If so, I’d love to hear your feedback of the experience.

Most of these are US based. I hope in future you get to share Travel MLMs based in the UK.

Yes, most of these Travel MLM Companies are headquartered in the USA, but many of them do business in a lot of different countries. I know that World Ventures does.

How crowded is the travel MLM space? Is it easier to climb the ranks as compared to other MLM types?

I don’t believe one niche is any easier than another in the MLM arena. I personally prefer consumable products, but everyone I know also travels, so the opportunity is there.

I think there is a general shortage of services based MLMs. It’s therefore encouraging to see that there are so many travel company MLMs.

There aren’t many big service based MLM Companies. Of the top 20 MLM Companies, maybe 2-3 of them, if that, are service based. Services are always changed. Technology changes. But consumable products are always needed, used up, and reordered. Skin care, weight loss, beauty, and health products seem to dominate the market.

I am not a big fan of Travel company MLMs. I much prefer Fast Moving Consumer Goods.

So do I, Laura. But there is still a big demand for these travel companies.

I have heard a lot about World Ventures. If I were ever to join a travel MLM it’s the one I’d pick.

Yes, World Ventures is a great company. I am not affiliated with them, but they are the big dog within the travel sector in the MLM Industry. They also have some great training.

I have seen a couple of bad reviews about travel MLMs before. However most of them were from people who had never been in a travel MLM before.

There are good and bad reviews online for just about every business in the world. I don’t take any review at face value. It is nothing more than one person’s opinion.

I like how you include links to the source material in your reviews. It really helps with learning more about the companies.

Yes, I always cite my sources so people who wrote the information get credit and so my readers can do additional research if they see fit.

Thanks for the great review of travel MLMs. At least I have learnt something new from this.

You’re welcome. I’m glad you found the information helpful.

I know very little about travel MLMs. I would need to do a ton of research before getting involved with them.

That’s good. You should do your due diligence and research before you start ANY type of business, so you can make an informed decision.

This would be a great opportunity for me. I have so many friends that are always travelling!

Yes, most people love to travel. I think it’s cool that you could travel the world, get paid to do it, and work from anywhere in the world. That is what some of these companies offer.

The lovely thing about Travel MLMs is that the customers help further your network. It is easy to grow big fast.

You definitely need customers, but that should not be your only focus if you are doing a travel MLM Company. You also want to build your network of distributors so you can get duplication and take advantage of the leverage factor.

I already work as a travel agent. Getting into a travel MLM would therefore be an easy transition for me.

I’d love to see a comparison of commissions for a travel agent compared to someone doing a MLM Company. That would be quite interesting.

Looks like there is an MLM for every sector in the economy today. What a time to be alive!

Yes, the MLM Industry is huge, doing billions and billions of sales each year. There are so many great niches, although my favorite is still health and wellness.

The profit margins from travel MLMs can be very good. I highly recommend them.

There is definitely a good profit margin as a rep if you work smart, make sales and follow the training the company and upline provides.

What I like about travel MLMs is their niche nature. That means it is not very crowded as of yet.

I’d say there are currently around 20 different travel MLM Companies, give or take. It is hard to keep up. That is good for the consumer because you have options. If you do your due diligence I know you can find a good company that will resonate with you.

I admit this kind of took me by surprise. I was never aware of any travel MLMs.

This is great information. But my issue is how do one compare and know the price differences between these travel agencies?

What I suggest you do is get out a blank sheet of paper and then start comparing two or three of these MLM Travel Companies. Find out about the sign up cost, monthly cost, what’s included, etc. This will help you determine which company is the best option for you.

Thanks for the information about coastal travel packages, I’d like to know more about how that MLM company works, its discount packages sound interesting.

Hopefully a rep from that company can chime in here and answer your questions. I know very little about that company.

Amazing! These travel packages are actually a win win situation. Someone sells these travel packages and one actually gets free travel benefits.

Exactly. For someone who likes to travel the world, I can’t think of a better type of business opportunity to be involved in.

I imagine that things are not easy for them now as the travel industry is one of those who were massively hit by this pandemic. A few months back an airline had to downsize crews just to make things afloat and that is sad. I just hope that after this the industry can recover soon.

Yes, the travel industry has been negatively affected by this pandemic, but I am 100% confident they will rebound. It won’t happen overnight, but the need and desire to travel will always be there.

Love the companies you listed, especially the messages from Global Travel International and Zyndio. I agree that trips to different parts of the world are timeless and memorable and really cater to healthy living. Great picks.

Yes, traveling the world has its merits. I have many great memories traveling to many different countries, although I no longer have the desire to travel.

Great MLM companies, I guess it would be great to work for ProtavelPlus and Ibuumernag.

They are both great travel companies. If I personally had to pick one from this list, I would go with World Ventures.

I’ve been looking for a solid travel-related business with high earning potential for some time now. Does anyone know what happened to Coastal vacations. They seem to have disappeared. Very few reps represent them any longer despite there being around for well over 20 years.

Any comments from experience on Paycation or or Xyndio?

How old is this report by the way?

I plan on updating this list later this month. I will research any new Travel MLM Companies and potentially add them to this list, and also remove any companies that are no longer in business.

This seems like it would be a lot easier than setting up your own travel agency. At least this way you have a backer. I wonder what the start-up cost is, and how that would compare to an independent agency, or even a time-share service. I will need to look into that. Thanks for heightening awareness for yet another MLM field!

Lisa it is so much easier than setting up your own travel company and it’s great to have tons of support. I started one through a host agency. I love that I’m able to expand through being apart of a mlm. Much luck to you

Almost everyone loves to travel. The idea of having a travel business sounds appealing to me. I’m not sure if being a travel agent is a better deal than promoting a MLM Travel Company, but it could be. I do like the idea of having leverage, and getting paid off your group’s sales, not just your own personal sales. For the right person, any of these MLM Travel Companies could be a great fit.

I agree with you. I’ve found that most people love to travel, and want to travel the world, but can’t afford to. If they can join a business that gives them discounted travel AND allows them to earn extra money at the same time, I think of that as a win-win.

Not only are their travel MLM Companies, but there are even MLM Companies that specialize in cruises. If this niche is something that interests you, I would consider comparing a few different MLM Travel Companies, so you can find one that is a good fit for you.

I haven’t personally looked into travel companies myself but have two friends that were in different companies. Both seemed to enjoy it and were making the money to pay their bills. One was in it for the ability to work from home and make the money she needed while the other did it for the travel experience and discount. Both have said they would still be with the business today if it wasn’t for circumstances that have made them leave. One was medical condition while the other was personal.

I plan to follow up with both of them and share their companies as well as their experiences with their permission.

Travel is huge. Even with the health concern going around now, things will pick up again. I think the travel industry can be very lucrative if you find the right company at the right time.

Wow. Great perks and benefits offered with these opportunities. I was already looking for a good MLM Travel Company. I think Pro Travel Plus has everything I am looking for. I will join them soon!

I don’t know much about Pro Travel Plus, but if you’ve done your research and like what you’ve found, I would say trust your gut and go with it. Good luck with your new travel company!

Get paid to travel. Count me in!

These MLM Travel Companies sound amazing. Do you know how their travel packages compare to buying a similar package from a travel agent?

If they are priced competitively, I can see how this would be a very lucrative business to get involved with.

I’ve never checked out the prices of their travel packages, but I’m sure they are competitive, because they can buy packages in bulk. I would visit each company’s website and snoop around to see what you can find. Thanks for the comment.

Have you looked into MWRLife Travel out of Florida? I am familiar with most of the ones mentioned above but I feel MWRLife Travel would fit in #1 compared to what’s listed.

I’ll have to check it out and add it to the list. Thanks for letting me know about MWR Life.

Thanks for providing such valuable info! I’m curious to know if any of these companies operate in India, as well. I’m based out in Bangalore and eager to kick start my travel MLM business from India.I have the potential to build a huge team over here. All I’m looking for is a trusted company. Many thanks!

To the best of my knowledge, none of these companies operate in India. If a website visitor knows of a Travel MLM Company that does business in India, maybe they could reply to this comment to let you know. Thanks.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Currently you have JavaScript disabled. In order to post comments, please make sure JavaScript and Cookies are enabled, and reload the page. Click here for instructions on how to enable JavaScript in your browser.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

Claim Your Free MLM Leads, Six Figure MLM Blueprint, & Free Business Plan Template.

Want to be an instant travel agent? Beware!

"BE A PART OF AMERICA'S FASTEST GROWING INDUSTRY — Earn thousands of dollars a month — from your home — selling travel!!!!"

You can find ads like that everywhere from the telephone pole on your corner to your grocery store bulletin board to your daily newspaper.

While you may find these ads appealing, especially if you can't work outside your home, proceed with caution. Not all work-at-home opportunities deliver on their promises. As a matter of fact, most don't. And that's especially true in travel.

In the past, the "standard" get-rich-quick schemes involved stuffing envelopes, assembling crafts, or medical billing. But today, it seems that travel opportunities are fast climbing to the top of the list.

Three years ago, I wrote a column on travel scams and "Becoming A Travel Agent" was in the top five. Unfortunately, things have not changed.

Each month, I get 10 or 12 emails inviting me to participate in some new travel scheme. Very few, if any, are legitimate. Consumers deceived by these ads have lost thousands of dollars, in addition to their time and energy.

Some are "travel clubs" where you pay a membership fee for "discounted" travel, but I would like to focus on the new scourge of the industry — the "Business Opportunity."

Most of these "opportunities" are nothing more than Multi Level Marketing (MLM) which, as an industry, has very few success stories. They are reminiscent of Pyramid and Ponzi schemes where only the initial investors will make any substantial money. They claim that you can become a "credentialed" travel agent as soon as the check clears the bank. They promise upgrades, discounted air, free travel, and discounted travel for your friends and family. They claim you will be selling travel and earning a slice of the worldwide $525 billion dollar pie. (World Tourism Organization, 2003)

In reality, most times, you are buying a sub-site on a larger Web site and pressured to recruit more travel agents under you. There is very little travel sold by these "instant" agents. When you go to one of these sites like YTB , the focus is on joining the ranks and reaping the benefits. Notice the small link to actually book travel? These travel requests are not handled by the "agent" but by a call center. So, the consumer is once again duped. You think you're working with an agent or someone you know, but in reality it's a minimally-trained, cubicle-dwelling, order taker in a call center.

On several occasions, on a public travel forum , an advocate of the MLM business has argued the validity of his business. To me, all of the points seemed very Jim Jones-esque. When asked about the professionalism of these so-called agents, the reply was, "Who cares if they are "professionals" — people buy donuts from a donut shop."

On the "credentials," the reply was "Once the Affiliate Travel Agent or Platinum Travel Club Member creates the California minimum of $1,500 in travel sales, that person will receive our own official company issued Travel Seller ID Card that they may present to any travel vendor that will accept it." So, the credential is their own — and not that of professional organizations such as IATA , ARC , OSSN , CLIA , ARTA , or any of the other recognized travel industry associations.

When asked about the benefits of being involved with a MLM scheme, the response was very typical of those that are falling hard for the pitch:

"The best of all! Someone can become a Travel Agent instantly for anywhere from $99 a year to thousands of dollars — just depends — but — indeed, they are instantly a travel agent. No tests — no classes — no internships — nothing but paying a fee. Then they just need to get the word out and start booking travel. In the meantime, while waiting for customers to arrive — they can access Fam Trips and show their ID Card to Disney World and get in free. They can get upgrades at 4 and 5 star hotels by showing their ID card. The wonderful world of travel."

Um, Mr. Jones, can I please have another glass of that purple Kool-Aid? As a legitimate travel agent and a consumer, I am not feeling too comfortable with this philosophy. Are you?

Still not convinced? Take a look at this YouTube production from a pair of YTB travel agents. I am not rushing to the post office to mail them a check!

While travel certainly has some perks, most of them are going the way of the dinosaur. I am sure my pharmacist has some perks, but I don't see any "clubs" or "become a pharmacist" ads. Maybe travel is an easy target. Maybe the MLM outfits feel there are more gullible people that have an interest. Most true professionals are in the business for the love of the business. Ask anyone who has been around for more than a few years.

While these schemes pop up all the time and disappear as quickly as they appear, two of the biggest current offenders are YTB (Your Travel Biz) and World Ventures. Apparently, there is another "club" with an "insta-agent" option launching in October called eTrips Network.

All profess to offer wonderful discounts and perks that, in most instances, will never materialize. In addition they claim to provide "identification" cards that will reap steep discounts on personal travel. I have yet to speak with someone that can convincingly verify any of their claims. As my mother has always said, "If it's too good to be true, it probably is." For more enlightenment, visit the Web site scam.com and do a search for "travel opportunities."

That is not to say that one can't earn a living selling travel from home. There are thousands out there that do it every single day. With the growth of online sales and the reduction in brick-and-mortar storefronts, many of these displaced agents have gone home. You can, too.

There are many legitimate "hosts" that will facilitate this and work with you to achieve your goals. They will not fill you with false promises and inflated numbers. They are interested in selling travel. They work with the suppliers to build their collective businesses and relationships. Yes, they take some money from you, but you need to review the programs and decide what is best for you.

Some of the reputable host agencies are America's Vacations Center , Magellan 360 , Cruise Planners , Nexion , GTM Travel Group and Travel Planners International . But realistically, if you want to make any money in any industry, you must be willing to work at it. Period. If you want a good list of reputable companies to begin a career in travel, check out the list maintained by the industry trade publication Travel Trade .

12 Questions to ask before joining up for any travel opportunity:

• What is the initial fee?
• What is my bottom-line monthly cost?
• How often will I be paid?
• What percentage of my sales do you retain?
• How long have you been a host agency?
• Can you give me five members to contact for a reference?
• What professional affiliations do you hold as a host?
• What training do you offer? In house? Online? Phone? Mail?
• How long is the contract?
• Do I actually sell travel?
• Do I need my own insurance or am I covered under yours?
• Will you put these claims in writing?

No. 12 is the most important one.

You also might want to check out the company with your local consumer protection agency, state attorney general and the Better Business Bureau, not only where the company is located, but also where you live. These organizations can tell you whether they have received complaints about the work-at-home program that interests you.

But be wary: the absence of complaints doesn't necessarily mean the company is legitimate. Unscrupulous companies may settle complaints, change their names or move to avoid detection. I know of one company that was a refrigeration company before becoming a travel company.

And to the naysayers out there, I challenge you. If you can prove the claims of the riches promised, I will publicly eat crow in a future column. Just e-mail me some redacted documents — bank statements, monthly commission checks, etc. Go on, I dare you. I double-dog dare you! The ball is in your court.

But until then, my advice to the consumer and someone looking to get into this business can be summed up in one word: BEWARE!

John Frenaye is the president of JVE Group, Inc., a diversified company based in Annapolis, Md. With nearly ten years as a senior executive in the retail travel industry and a background in business management, he writes about the travel industry as an insider with an outsider's perspective. or visit his . Want to sound off about one of his columns? Try visiting

• Host Agencies
• Accelerator Course
• Travel Jobs
• Travel Agent Chatter
• Etiquette & Rules
• Privacy Policy

Travel Planners International

• Question & Answer

Support hours

Company details.

• Founded 1988
• Host Type Host Only
• Currently Accepting Beginner Agents, Experienced Agents
• Accepts Agents in USA
• # of Contractors 4,000
• Annual Sales $300 million
• Languages Spoken English, Spanish
• Business Attributes —
• Profile Updated 03/22/2024
• GDS Amadeus, Apollo, Sabre, Travelport, Worldspan
• Consortia Signature Travel Network
• Accreditations ARC, CLIA, IATA
• Members of ASTA, ASTA-SBN, PATH
• Seller of Travel California, Florida, Hawaii
• E&O Insurance Included
• Focuses Adventure, Cruise, Corporate, Disney, Groups, Leisure, Luxury, Ethnic, Honeymoon/DWs, FITs

Program Details

• Ticketing Service for non-GDS Agents
• Minimum Sales Requirement —
• Charge for Ticketing
• Lead Program
• Education Program IC Education, In-person
• Allows Sub-agents

Pricing & Commission

• Military/Veteran discounts
• Start Up Fee $0–$459
• Location requirement Storefront, Home-based
• Annual Fee $0
• Commission Split Range 70% to 100%
• Frequency of Commission Payments Every Two Weeks
• Method of Payment Direct Deposit

Technology & Tools

• Marketing Programs Direct Mail, Website Program, E-mail Marketing, Social Media Tools
• Leisure Tools —
• Corporate Tools Air Program, Online Booking Tool

About Travel Planners International

We know exactly how hard-charging, passionate, and high-energy you are because you’re just like us, obsessed with bringing the world closer through travel – and with everything we do, YOU and your business are in our minds.

Your brand, business, and identity are celebrated and supported throughout the lifecycle of your agency.

• From day one in the industry, when training, community, and guidance are crucial, we ensure you are heading in the right direction.
• Scaling your business and growing your agency (by bringing on your own advisors) is easier when you have our online education options and fellow Agency Builders community.
• And finally, when you start looking at ways to retire, we’re there for you to connect, guide, and toast your success as you make your decisions.

Ok, so let’s talk about what we INCLUDE in your fee.

• Robust proprietary CRM tied to our back office and accounting tools – Data for days to help you manage your business
• Email marketing program with UNLIMITED contacts for you to craft your own or grab one of our emails
• AXUS Itinerary builder and Travel 42 Program
• Marketing Asset Databank: chock-full of videos, social graphics, and images to help you market your business.
• Advisor Portal that you can access on the go with its mobile responsive design
• Point and click air, car, and hotel booking engine
• And double-dipping your opportunities

You see, agencies who belong to a HOST partnered with a Consortia grow their businesses exponentially, all while maintaining control of their business.  With Signature Travel Network as our consortia, our advisors double-dip all day long!

• Double the sales “exclusive” opportunities 
• Double the group space – WE SHARE OUR TC’s 
• Double the travel partner support – build additional relationships at a deeper level
• Double the marketing options 

When you compare host agencies, you’ll see we rank high in support, our knowledgeable community, and our family-feel. Still being family-owned since 1988, you can feel the commitment we have to our TPI Team Members with tenures from 5 to 27 years with the family. Partner with us, and you are automatically adopted into our TPI Rockstar Family. Our Facebook forums are extremely active, always buzzing with questions, comments, suggestions, and ideas. Not only that, but our fun-loving TPI Team is always ready to help you out with whatever you need. We’ve also got you covered with 24/7 support from our community of solo entrepreneurial Rockstars and Agency Owners.

Let’s go, Rockstar!

Check out our website , call us, or just watch us on Instagram and Facebook – you’ll quickly see the difference! 800-730-6392

Preferred Suppliers

Activies/excursions.

• Project Expedition
• Shore Excursions Group
• Aerolíneas Argentinas
• Air New Zealand
• American Airlines
• British Airways
• Delta/Air France/KLM
• Hong Kong Airlines
• Qatar Airways
• South African Airways
• Turkish Airlines
• United Airlines
• Virgin Atlantic

Cruise lines

• AmaWaterways
• American Cruise Lines
• American Queen Steamboat Company
• Atlas Ocean Voyages
• Avalon Waterways
• Carnival Cruise Line
• Celebrity Cruises
• Costa Cruises
• Crystal Cruises
• Disney Cruise Lines
• Emerald Waterways
• Holland America Cruise Lines
• Hurtigruten
• MSC Cruises
• Norwegian Cruise Lines
• Oceania Cruises
• Paul Gauguin Cruises
• PONANT Cruises & Expeditions
• Princess Cruises
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
• Royal Caribbean International
• Scenic Cruises
• Seabourn Cruise Lines
• Silversea Cruises
• U by Uniworld
• Un-Cruise Adventures
• Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection
• Viking Cruises
• Virgin Voyages
• Windstar Cruises
• Choice Hotels
• Intercontinental
• Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group
• Travel Guard
• Travel Insured International
• TravelSafe Insurance
• Rail Europe
• Rocky Mountaineer

Rental cars

• Auto Europe
• Carey International
• Enterprise Rent a Car
• National Car Rental
• Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts
• Disneyland Resort Hotels
• Palace Resorts
• Playa Hotels & Resorts
• RIU Hotels & Resorts
• Universal Orlando Resort
• Walt Disney World Resort Hotels
• Abercrombie & Kent
• Adventures by Disney
• African Travel
• Alexander + Roberts
• American Airlines Vacations
• Apple Leisure Group
• Apple Vacations
• Avanti Destinations
• Blue Sky Tours
• Brendan Vacations
• CIE Tours International
• Classic Vacations
• Delta Vacations
• Disney Destinations
• Europe Express
• Funjet Vacations
• G Adventures
• Globus Family of Brands
• GOGO Vacations
• Insight Vacations
• Kensington Tours
• Luxury Gold
• MLT Vacations
• Pleasant Holidays
• Railbookers
• Southwest Vacations
• Travel Bound
• Travel Impressions
• United Vacations
• Vacation Express
• Walt Disney Travel Company
• Yankee Leisure Group

Meet the Team

Upcoming Events

In the News

• Working with Canadians? Best Host Agency for YOU? Becoming a Top Se... February 23, 2024
• Transitioning to TA after the military, selling one cruise line, an... November 17, 2023
• Crafting Effective Google Reviews for Your Travel Agency October 26, 2023
• Travel certification, hosting outside of the US, and developing you... October 20, 2023

Host Travel Agencies: Why You Need Them and How to Choose the Best Option

• 10 min read
• Business ,   Travel
• 16 Sep, 2020
• 2 Comments Share

What is a host travel agency?

Host travel agency business model

Host travel agency accreditations and memberships

Services provided by host travel agencies besides accreditation, education and training, bookkeeping and sales tracking, errors and omissions (e&o) insurance, marketing programs and sales opportunities, lead generation, technology solutions.

• CRM system,
• accounting software,
• email and social media marketing software,
• a lead generation engine,
• booking tools, and
• a consumer-faced website.

How to choose a host travel agency

Top host travel agency review.

• Avoya Travel ,
• Travel Planners International (TPI) ,
• Nexion Travel Group , and
• Outside Agents .

Top host travel agencies comparison

Avoya Travel: AmEx representative with focus on technologies and lead generation

• educational programs
• a consumer-facing website
• lead generation
• a CRM system
• marketing tools
• commission tracking and performance reports
• a cruise and tour booking engine
• E&O insurance
• large variety of air and hotel booking options

Travel Planners International: exclusive support for newcomers

• accounting software
• booking engine connected to all major GDSs
• consumer-facing website

Nexion Travel Group: one-stop-shop for leisure and corporate travel professionals

• sales and commission tracking
• non-GDS booking engine
• access to major GDSs

Outside Agents: family atmosphere and the biggest possible commission share

• groups promotion tool
• booking engine for cruise and air

From multiple choices to one possible option

• Share full article

Advertisement

Travel Advisers: When to Let a Professional Plan Your Trip

By Julie Weed

Decades ago, your vacation most likely began with a visit to a travel agent, who relied on a combination of expertise and connections to find the best deals on plane tickets, hotels, tours and more. Since then, the internet has turned most of us into our own travel agents, and artificial intelligence software is making research and self-booking even easier. But for some trips, that special insider knowledge can still make a big difference.

So when should you hire a professional, and how does it all work? Here are some tips.

Why should I consider a travel adviser?

It’s easy for a traveler to do the research for a standard trip, said Chris Anderson, a professor at the Cornell University School of Hotel Administration, “so they should look for a specialist for the type of tour they are looking for, say a bike trip in Ireland, who can really add value.”

The insider knowledge offered by a travel adviser can add the most value to trips that have multicity itineraries, involve a wide age range of travelers , are very significant (like an anniversary vacation) or are to destinations you are unfamiliar with, said Gary R. Johnson, who has run the travel agency Woodside Travel in Seattle for nearly 30 years. An adviser could help you decide, for instance, in which order to visit European cities based on local events and transportation options.

What can an adviser give me that a booking site can’t?

Travel advisers can help you research the best destinations, lodging, or activities for your particular group and travel goals, offering up specific advice that might be hard or time-consuming to find yourself. Those specializing in cruises might know which cabin to choose if you are prone to seasickness, while a safari planner could help you decide which park would be best for bird-watching or seeing specific animals, like rhinos.

Travel advisers typically have relationships with tour companies, hotels and cruise lines, sometimes through networks. Those connections can allow advisers to offer extra perks such as late checkout, free breakfast, airport transfers, a welcome basket or a credit to spend on a cruise ship.

“A good travel agent will be a better steward of your travel budget than you are,” said Guy Rubin, managing director of Imperial Tours , which arranges travel in China.

When bad weather or other circumstances disrupt your itinerary, travel advisers often have direct lines of communication with providers and can do the work of rebooking and changing plans, saving you time and stress.

OK, let’s say I need help. How do I find an adviser?

Networks like the American Society of Travel Advisors and Travel Leaders have websites that can help you start your search for a travel adviser by answering a few questions about your desired trip. Once you have a handful to choose from, get on the phone with them to talk about what they might do for you, how they charge and the level of service you can expect. Special trips can cost thousands of dollars, so it’s worth investing time up front, Mr. Rubin said.

Make sure to read over the travel agent’s reviews and any user-generated social content that mentions them, Dr. Anderson said. “If there is no external validation, that’s a red flag.”

How do advisers get paid, and how much will it cost me?

Advisers receive commission from suppliers, typically 10 to 15 percent of the price, when selling cruises, lodging and tours. They also sometimes charge travelers a planning fee, from a few hundred dollars, which may be credited to the final bill if the booking is completed, all the way up to tens of thousands of dollars annually for a luxury concierge travel planner they can call on all year. Mr. Johnson said that he charges a planning fee the first time he works with customers. If they return for other trips, he waives the fee.

Advisers may be tempted to sell you something that will earn them a higher commission, Dr. Anderson said. But, he points out, the same is true for the large online services, which promote hotels that pay them larger commissions. Travelers can ask advisers about specific commissions they receive or how they are affiliated with the products they are recommending, he said.

Sometimes a local tour company will package transportation, lodging and experiences for an adviser, who tacks on a percentage before passing it along to a client. But a bill that is not itemized can make it harder to make trade-offs — between a more expensive hotel and a special experience, for example. If pricing transparency is important to you, discuss it with the adviser up front.

How are A.I. and other technologies affecting travel advisers?

While new technologies are allowing do-it-yourselfers to create their own itineraries online based on individual preferences, and to type questions directly into travel websites, advisers are also taking advantage of those technologies to improve their services. Joan Roca, chief executive of the upscale travel planning company Essentialist said his team “uses technology to enhance the human touch,” employing artificial intelligence to choose options from a database of travel offerings selected by a human team. If a couple wants to take an after-dinner stroll, for example, Essentialist’s app will offer up ideas of where to go, based on what part of the city the travelers are in and conversations they’ve had with their travel adviser.

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

Italy :  Spend 36 hours in Florence , seeking out its lesser-known pockets.

Southern California :  Skip the freeways to explore the back roads between Los Angeles and Los Olivos , a 100-mile route that meanders through mountains, canyons and star-studded enclaves.

Mongolia : Some young people, searching for less curated travel experiences, are flocking to the open spaces of this East Asian nation .

Romania :  Timisoara  may be the most noteworthy city you’ve probably never heard of , offering just enough for visitors to fill two or three days.

India: A writer fulfilled a lifelong dream of visiting Darjeeling, in the Himalayan foothills , taking in the tea gardens and riding a train through the hills.

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

We’re on the road right now – join in on the fun and follow @thebrokebackpacker on IG!

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

Best Time To Visit Moscow

Where to stay in moscow, moscow itinerary, day 1 itinerary in moscow, day 2 itinerary in moscow, day 3 and beyond, staying safe in moscow, day trips from moscow, faq on moscow itinerary.

Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

• Trip Planner
• Private Tours
• Small Group Tours
• Two Capitals
• City Breaks
• Trans-Siberian
• River Cruises
• Russia & Beyond

4-star edition of the private 9-day tour of the Russian capitals

5-star edition fo the private 9-day tour of Moscow & St. Petersburg

13-day in-depth discovery of Moscow, Kazan, and St. Petersburg

7-day tour designed to harness the best of the Venice of the North

11-day private discovery of Moscow, St. Petersburg, and the Golden Ring

Your Russia Getaway

Fill out the short trip survey to receive a personalized itinerary from a destination expert.

• Travel guide
• Before you go
• What to see

Russia Trip Planner

Learn about the dos and the don'ts for your amazing trip to Russia

• Our Partners
• Reservation Policies

Rated 9/10 on the Trustpilot review platform

• My itineraries
• Chat with us
• Trip survey

Groups & Agents

• For Suppliers

+1 (888) 744-6056

• North America : +1 (888) 744-6056
• Oceania and Australia : +61261888118

Moscow Must-Experiences

You are here.

Whether you've been to Moscow before or are traveling for the very first time, there's always room for discoveries in this mighty city. Here is our list of top places not to miss on your unforgettable  tour to Moscow .

1. The Kremlin

The  Kremlin  is located in the very heart of the capital and is definitely one of Moscow's oldest and most picturesque parts. It is an ancient fortified building complex standing on the banks of the Moskva River. In fact, the city took its name from the river almost 1000 years ago. The whole complex encompasses four majestic cathedrals, five palaces, the Kremlin Wall, and the Kremlin towers.

Some of the palaces are now amazing museums, such as the well-known  Armory Chamber , which is famous for weapons, jewelry, and household objects of the tzars and the collection of fifty marvelous Faberge eggs. The Kremlin is an important cultural and architectural sight considered a true embodiment of its magnificence and poverty. What is more, it is still the current residence and executive office of the head of Russia. It is often used as a metonym to refer to the Russian Federation's government. Moscow Kremlin's complex was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990 and highlighted every tour of Russia's capital.

2. Red Square

Red Square  is the oldest square in Moscow and is its main and central one. The name Red (Krasnaya) derives from another meaning of this Russian word beautiful. Located between the citadel of Kremlin and "Kitai-gorod" - a historic quarter of merchants, it is the starting point of the capital's major streets. For over 500 years, the square has been the stage for Russia's political, social, and historical changes and development. And its main buildings recall the solemn events that took place here.

In the XVI century, the Red Square was a site of execution, where Ivan the Terrible put prisoners to death, and where he later began the construction of the famous St. Basil's Cathedral as a repent of his cruel deeds. It was the location where Napoleon stayed with his army in 1912. From 1924 the Red Square complex was supplemented with Lenin's Mausoleum as a monument to the era of Communism. The Red Square (together with the Moscow Kremlin) was included in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list in 1990. And today, it is a grandstand for national celebrations and parades and a major tourist attraction. Visiting the Red Square is one of the most exciting experiences during  tours to Moscow .

3. St. Basil's Cathedral

This gorgeous cathedral in the name of Saint Vasily the Blessed is considered the most emblematic architectural masterpiece symbolizing Russia. Located on the Red Square in Moscow, the colorful red-bricked beauty is its main precious decoration. Tsar Ivan the Terrible began its construction in 1552. Built in the XVI century, the cathedral originally had eight chapels. The ninth was added in honor of Basil the Blessed.

On the inside, the church is a narrow corridors system, joining perfectly asymmetrical towers, together forming a labyrinth within the cathedral space. The legend says that after the church's construction was completed, Tsar Ivan the Terrible was immensely excited and impressed by the cathedral's beauty. Surprisingly, he sentenced the architects to have their eyes put out. Such cruelty was applied so that the blind masters could never again build such a magnificent church. The  St. Basil's Cathedral  has no close analogs globally and is definitely among the absolute must-visits in Moscow.

4. The State Tretyakov Gallery

By far, the  Tretyakov Gallery  is the most important art gallery in Russia, and it's fair to say that it is among the world's most renowned and prestigious ones. Its history goes back to 1856 when Pavel Tretyakov, a local wealthy merchant, and art collector, created an exhibition of modern works by Russia's contemporary fine artists. The collection was first shown in the big hall of the Tretyakov's family house. Merely ten years later, the "Moscow City Gallery of Tretyakov" was opened to visitors as a gift to the city of Moscow, its expositions encompassing more than 2,000 artworks!

Today the State Tretyakov Gallery is often referred to as "the treasury of national fine arts" for the reason that over 150,000 masterpieces are on display, representing every possible genre and the country's rich traditions. Exquisite sculptures, centuries-old icons, gorgeous paintings, some created by anonymous masters, others by world-known, and admired names. Thus, for those who highly appreciate art, the Tretyakov Gallery is a must-visit place while on  vacation in Russia . It provides a great chance to see modern colorful canvases and the legacy of all generations of artists.

5. The Moscow Metro

The  Moscow Metro  is a huge underground world that not only provides its citizens with fast and comfortable travel about the city but is also among the capital's most famous attractions. Many stations have become considerable landmarks and are protected by the Russian Federation as valuable cultural objects. Every one of the 177 stations has its own unique appearance. Paintings, monuments, bronze statues, and mosaics of marble and stained glass were used in their decoration. The "Sokolnicheskaya" was the first metro railway line in the Soviet Union built as part of the capital's modernization program and opened for citizens in 1935.

The beautiful, almost luxurious space of the first stations is often called "the underground palaces of Moscow." They were carefully designed by the country's best architects and can be truly considered a museum. The concept and style of the stations mostly reflect Soviet values and ideology. For instance, "Revolution Square," "Komsomolskaya" or the "Novoslobodskaya" are named standards of Soviet architecture of pre- and after-war periods and were created as monuments in honor of the Soviet success in industrializing the country and as symbols of the pride and victory of the Russian nation.

6. Bolshoi Theater

The building of the  Bolshoi Theater  was founded in 1825 and has overcome many changes. The biggest theater in the capital traditionally stages opera and ballet, which have always been very significant arts for Russia, pleasing viewers each season with 3-4 new shows. Yet it must be noted that the Bolshoi theatrical and ballet collectives were established much earlier - in the late 1770s. Throughout the years of their existence, they have gifted the world community with many magnificent shows. Bolshoi's Ballet company is among the oldest and largest ones globally, with more than 200 dancers performing here today.

What is more, the Bolshoi Theater's orchestra is now an individual virtuoso ensemble that gives concerts of classical and modern symphonic music playing masterpieces created by Mozart, Tchaikovsky, Verdi, and others both in the theater and on tours. The name "Bolshoi" has the meaning of "great" or "big," reflecting its importance for the Russian culture. Bolshoi steadily keeps the status of a world-class ballet and opera theater and is definitely worth visiting when in Moscow.

7. Kuskovo Estate

Situated in Moscow's outskirts, the Kuskovo Estate is a great example of typical Russian summer estate architecture. The complex was built in the XVIII century and was first owned by a Russian count Boris Sheremetev, a maven in arts. He turned the palace, park zone with ponds, and pavilion buildings into a real masterpiece combining classicism and baroque styles. Although the palace was located a whole day's travel from Moscow and had no guest rooms, the estate was a trendy place among Moscow's nobility.

Balls were given here twice a week, making Kuskovo a major entertainment site for the city's cream. In 1919 after the Revolution, the edifice and its surrounding territories were turned into a natural history museum, and today, it is a place where ceremonies, summer festivals, and concerts are held. Apart from its beautiful buildings and park, Kuskovo also encompasses the famous State Museum of Ceramics, which exhibits fine porcelain and glass collections created by Empress Maria Fedorovna.

Although Moscow might seem like a huge bustling megalopolis it has it's own unique charm and inimitable beauty. Its vast expanses and awe-inspiring atmosphere are a memorable experience for all who travel to Russia's capital. We will be happy to plan your memorable Moscow vacation, feel free to  contact our specialists .

• Call us now
• Request a call
• Chat on WhatsApp
• Start Live chat
• Contact via email

Moscow & St. Petersburg Small Group Tours Private Tour Packages Trans-Siberian Trips Russian River Cruises Moscow Tour Packages St. Petersburg Tours All Russia Tours

Why Travel to Russia Best Time to Visit Russia Russian Visa Information Tips Before Traveling Tips on Arrival Russian Currency Moscow Travel Guide Read More in Our Blog

Hermitage Museum Church of the Savior on Blood The Kremlin Sergiev Posad, Golden Ring Kizhi Island The Red Square Siberia Lake Baikal

Fla. Seller of Travel Ref. No. ST39939 All Rights Reserved © 2024 About Us | Testimonials  | Our Blog  |  Terms of Service  | Privacy Policy  

2018 Primetime Emmy & James Beard Award Winner

R&K Insider

Join our newsletter to get exclusives on where our correspondents travel, what they eat, where they stay. Free to sign up.

A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

Featured city guides.

Hey there, future Rockstar! Give us a call now to get started: 1-800-730-6392

• Compare Host Travel Agencies
• Luxury Travel Agency Host
• Success Stories

Start Your Business with Us and Go Further Faster

Get the stuff you need.

First of all, you’re winning at life if you are even considering becoming a travel agent. Secondly, you’re showing your smarts by choosing to partner with us because we excel at being a kickass Host Travel Agency for beginners. When you start your travel agency business with us, you start strong and supported; we don’t leave you high and dry. From day 1, you have access to incredible tools and technologies that’ll set the stage for your Rockstar performance.

You don’t have to fish for promotional marketing materials when you are a part of the TPI Family. Because we have stellar relationships with over 380+ preferred TPI and Signature Travel Network suppliers, you have access to all of their promos and advertising goods. If you were working on your own, you might not be so lucky. We create consumer-facing emails and videos for you, so you can just grab and go.

Whether you are a naturally-organized high-energy, person or a fly-by-the-seat of your pants go-getter, when you partner with us as your host travel agency, you get a built-in digitized assistant in the form of your very own Agent Portal. No need to keep track of five gazillion sticky notes with random information, or use third-party software to keep tabs on your billing. With us, you get all that and a bag of chips. Your Agent Portal includes a booking engine, an email marketing platform, and accounting software. Done and done, all in one place.

Got a question? Need a suggestion? Looking for advice? No prob. We are a great choice as your host travel agency for beginners because we’ve got the answers 24/7, 365. Even though our home office may not be open all the time, our family of over 5,000 Rockstar agents is buzzing with activity. We’re a fun-loving group of good-looking people passionate about helping you succeed. Our exclusive Facebook group is made up of Rockstars with unprecedented years of experience ranging from three months to 35 years.

You’re Never Alone. You’re with Family.

Facebook community.

As a member of our TPI Family, you’ll have access to our exclusive private Facebook Group, just for our Rockstars. This very active forum is where you’ll get the answers to a lot of your questions, get advice, and schmooze with fellow sleep-deprived hard-working travel agents.

You’ll find segmented groups, specific to your needs and interests, so you can get the answers you want. With over 5,000 Rockstars on our Team, chances are, someone is going to be awake when you need a little help.

Facebook Live Events

You get new information EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. Our Facebook Live events include daily supplier updates and announcements where you get to interact and ask questions. We host TPI talks weekly where you are kept up to date on things happening with your awesome Host Agency.

We offer dozens of local events and meetups around the country throughout the year, where you can physically meet some of your travel agency peers and network with suppliers.

We also hold conferences and get-together just for our Rockstars, where we celebrate how awesome you are, develop business-building strategies together, take part in high-powered agent-to-agent training, and applaud your success.

Commission Structure

Now to the part you really want to know about: a travel agent’s salary . As long as you put in the work, you’re sure to rake in the bucks no matter what commission structure you choose. It’s your business, and it’s your money. You work hard for it. Just decide which commitment level is best for you. You’re a part of our family no matter what, so you get access to the same incredible resources at all commitment levels. And don’t worry, you can always change it later on!

In It to Win It

Noncommittal

It's Just a Side-Hustle

Rockstar Success Stories

I've worked incredibly hard to get to where I am today, and it's nice to know I have a company like TPI supporting me as I continue to make my place in the travel industry.

Theresa Chu-Bermudez Get Out Custom Travels

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best home-based travel agency business.

The best home-based travel agency business sets you up for success. Look into how long they’ve been in business, how their partnerships for agents work, if they offer training, how their commission split structures work, and if they provide a community for you. You don’t want to be in this industry alone.

Why should I choose your company?

When you partner with TPI as your host travel agency , you become a part of a family and we’re here to grow with you. You have access to resources, training, community support, and commission split structures to get you the most money. Also, we’re just really cool to hang out with.

What separates your agency from our competitors?

As a Rockstar , you have access to marketing and promotional materials, an Agent Portal, local meetups, community support, and more! Our expert staff is committed to you and obsessed with your success. In fact, our travel advisors tell us that they can’t find our heart and soul from any other travel host agency.

5,000+ Rockstars Have Partnered With Us

It’s Time to Join Us and Rock Your Travel Agency Business

Orlando Web Design and Digital Marketing by ROAR! Internet Marketing