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The 8 Best Cat Scratchers

travel cat scratcher

March 8, 2023

S ave your furniture and buy a cat scratcher for your favorite household member. Scratching for cats helps groom their nails and mark their territory with scent. We tested eight popular cat scratchers to see which stood up to the test with six cats and their humans.

The SmartCat – Ultimate Scratching Post is the most durable cat scratcher stable enough for even our biggest 18-pound kitty. Another option we liked is the MECOOL – Scratching Post for its combination of sisal rope and plush fabric.

If you’re on a budget, the Coching – Scratching Pad is a reinforced corrugated cardboard that doesn’t wear down as quickly as other cardboard pads. On the flip side, if you’re looking for a modern-looking scratcher, we recommend the stylish Fukumaru – Activity Tree , made of jute and wooden materials.

Our Top Choices

travel cat scratcher

Best overall

Ultimate Scratching Post

travel cat scratcher

Scratching Post

travel cat scratcher

Budget pick

Cardboard Scratch Pad

travel cat scratcher

Modern pick

Activity Tree

Why trust us?

Mikasa stretching

While we understand each cat is different, we have access to test items on several cats of different breeds, sizes, and demeanors so we can find the best accessories, like cat scratchers. In the past, we’ve tested automatic litter boxes (like the Litter-Robot 4 ), cat toys , cat trees , nail clippers , litter mats , and even cat food . When it comes to our pets, we go above and beyond with our testing requirements to make sure we pick the best items.

The 8 Cat Scratchers we tested

Important features to consider.

Most cats have textural preferences for their scratching surfaces. Scratchers are often made of corrugated cardboard, sisal rope, woven sisal, jute, or polyester carpet. Sisal rope or woven sisal are often the most popular because the rough texture allows the cat’s claws to grip the material during scratching and helps with grooming. Sisal is also extremely durable and long-lasting.

Carpet (often polyester carpet) is the softest material, but the woven texture still allows cats to grip the fabric and scratch. This material doesn’t last as long as sisal. Corrugated cardboard can also mimic a softer, bark-like texture for cats who prefer a different material. It’s also important to mention that cardboard (whether cheap or reinforced corrugated cardboard) disintegrates into smaller pieces and is often messier than other fabrics.

Build quality and durability

While corrugated cardboard falls apart quicker than sisal or carpet, remember that all scratchers are meant to be used and will break down eventually. However, buying from reputable brands known for their build quality is still important. Scratchers with reinforced corrugated cardboard, like from the brand Coching, won’t disintegrate as quickly as cheaper cardboard designs.

We love the height for vertical scratching posts because it gives cats room to scratch and stretch on instinct. But you must also have sturdy and heavy bases to prevent cats from toppling the scratcher. We also prefer posts to be glued and stapled securely to prevent cats from hurting themselves.

Shape & size

Cat scratchers come in many varieties, like vertical posts or horizontal scratchers. We suggest choosing a scratcher that allows your cat to scratch and stretch in their natural preference. For example, if your cat tends to scratch a couch while standing on their hind legs, we suggest buying a vertical scratching post.

Scratchers come in many affordable prices, but sometimes these prices can dictate the material used or the design of each scratcher. We found cheaper scratchers tend to be made of cardboard or have less durable builds than more expensive scratchers. Modern designs like the scratchers from Fukumaru were often more expensive.

Other features

Other features you should consider are extra toys that help entice cats to use the scratchers more than your expensive furniture. Some scratchers are made for multiple cat households because they offer more posts or different scratching areas. If your cat loves being in high places, it’s also useful to have scratchers with platforms or different levels to sit on top of to entice them to use the scratchers.

How we selected

We picked a variety of materials like woven sisal, sisal rope, jute, cardboard, and carpet in horizontal and vertical scratcher designs all under $50. Many of these scratchers are from popular brands, and we also received recommendations from other cat parents. In total, we tested eight different types of scratchers to see how they would fare against our five resident cats.

How we tested

Kit Kat chillin

  • Gob : Ginger cats are known to be playful and aloof, and Gob is no different. This five-year-old kitty loves to snuggle as much as he likes to get his wiggles out by chasing or scratching vertical posts. He’s currently 12 pounds and measures 19 inches.
  • Kit Kat : Our 11-year-old senior cat is also our biggest kitty at 18 pounds and measures __ inches. He loves to give the biggest stretches on vertical posts and is always on the hunt for scratchers tall and sturdy enough for his stature.
  • Jelly Bean : Our tiniest cat, Jelly Bean dwarfs her brother Kit Kat at eight pounds and __ inches in length. She’s five years old and prefers cardboard scratchers for her delicate little paws.
  • Marshmellow : As an ex-street cat, Marshmellow now spends the day looking forward to her next meal, kicking scratching posts, and sleeping on cat trees. She’s five years old and 15 inches long.
  • Mizuki : This six-year-old grey calico is 12 pounds and measures about 20 inches long. She loves a good treat and typically loves scratching on vertical posts or cardboard scratchers.
  • Mikasa : Two-year-old Mikasa is also a grey calico like her older sister Mizuki and is 10 pounds and 18 inches long. She’s a little bit more reserved but also loves cardboard scratchers.

Ease of assembly

During assembly, we paid attention to how detailed the instructions were to follow if the scratchers came with any tools to make assembly easier, and how fast it took to put them together. The smoother the assembly process, the closer they ranked out of 10 per category.

We ranked all the scratchers out of 10 in three categories: material choice, stability, and if it can be repaired. Materials like sisal and jute scored higher than corrugated cardboard because they are stronger materials and have less tendency to disintegrate within a couple of months of testing. We ranked its score lower during testing if a scratcher moved or tilted over. We noted if repairing scratchers were easy or possible. Some materials like cardboard couldn’t be repaired because they disintegrated, but sisal rope or jute can be replaced easily, and they ranked higher.

Scratchers are necessary for many cats, but that doesn’t mean they have to be ugly. We ranked the design of each scratcher on three specifics: aesthetics, size of the scratching area, and extra features like toys or platforms. Aesthetics include offering different colors, sizes, and overall design. The more of these characteristics each scratcher has, the higher they scored out of 10. Scratchers also scored higher if they had a larger-sized scratching area because it allowed cats to scratch from more areas and lasted longer. Extra features like toys that enticed cats to scratch more or platforms were scored higher out of 10.

SmartCat - Ultimate Scratching Post

Smartcat - Ultimate Scratching Post

See Price at Amazon

The SmartCat – Ultimate Scratching Post is our favorite because of its durability, stable base, large scratching surfaces, and extra high platform for our cats to perch. Made up of woven sisal material and hardwood, this 32-inch tall scratcher is our tallest and heaviest post. It’s also the most expensive coming at just under $50.

Assembly for the SmartCat was fairly easy and fast. The post came already assembled, and you just needed to attach it to the wooden base with two screws. We liked that it also included tips on introducing your cat to the scratcher at the bottom of the base. Read more…

Our resident cat testers loved scratching on the woven sisal on this tower. The stability of the wooden base performed perfectly. Even our biggest boy, Kit Kat (18 pounds), couldn’t tip over the scratcher during his grooming periods. After several weeks of testing, the SmartCat hardly frayed, even with three cats constantly using the posts to scratch.

The only issue we saw with the SmartCat was that it would be difficult to repair, and the company doesn’t sell any repair kits, so you would need to either replace the sisal carpet yourself or buy a new tower. However, we can safely assume that this scratcher is our most durable and lasts longer than other scratchers we’ve tested. That means you are most likely paying a premium upfront price but get a longer-lasting and durable scratcher.

MECOOL - Scratching Post

Mecool - tall cat scratching post

Our cats also liked using the MECOOL – Scratching Post because of its tall vertical size and extra rough sisal rope. Our tester Gob prefers scratching on sisal rope (as opposed to the woven sisal on the PetMaker), and he frequently likes the taller post to stretch and scratch. Gob also prefers soft fabrics to scritch his face and body on, and we like that the base and toys are made up of plush fabric.

One issue with this scratcher is that the base isn’t completely stable if the cat scratches too high. If Gob is too excited during playtime and scratches the post too quickly, it tends to move or slightly tip without falling over. We’ve solved this issue by placing the scratcher over an immovable rug to help it stabilize during playtime, but if you’ve got a bigger cat that likes to climb, this scratcher may not be for your household. Read more…

This is a great scratcher for most cats that like to groom their claws on rougher textures like sisal rope. At under $30, this is an average-priced scratcher in different sizes and colors. Its easy assembly makes it even more enticing. We also like that the sisal rope lets us easily repair the scratcher as it wears down.

Coching - Cardboard Scratch Pad

Coching - corrugated scratcher

We liked the Coching – Cardboard Scratch Pad for our kitties that preferred cardboard because of its reinforced corrugated cardboard that didn’t wear down as quickly and it also worked great as a cat bed. This pad is a good option if your cat also likes to scratch horizontally.

What makes Coching different from other brands is that it’s made of reinforced corrugated cardboard. This material means it can take a beating (or a clawing) from cats without wearing down as quickly as cheaper cardboard brands we’ve tried. Composed of recycled cardboard, it’s more environmentally friendly–something we approve of while searching for new accessories. Read more…

Each scratch pad has two sides, so you can elongate the life of this scratcher by simply turning it over. Our cat testers, Jelly Bean and Marshmellow loved using this scratcher and sleeping on it during breaks. It’s a two-in-one accessory! It’s best to place this scratcher on a rug or carpeted surface to prevent it from moving during scratching.

This scratcher needs no assembly; all you have to do is open it from plastic packaging. The Coching also comes in several shapes, sizes, and patterns to fit in style with many different homes. If you’re on a budget, the $14 Coching – Cardboard Scratch Pad is a good choice because it doesn’t break the bank and still offers a sturdy surface area or even just a new bed for your cat to lie on.

Fukumaru - Activity Tree

Fukumaru - activity cat tree

For cat parents who love modern furniture, we recommend the Fukumaru – Activity Tree. This cat scratcher offers a sleek and minimalist design of jute and wood. If your cat is a climber, you can buy more Fukumaru wall accessories to make a jungle gym for your kitties.

The Fukumaru – Activity Tree was our only cat scratcher that required a power tool because you needed to screw it into your wall. We liked that it came with clear, detailed instructions and most tools, including a drill bit and drywall anchors. It took a little bit more time to set up, but it’s very sturdy and doesn’t move. Read more…

One issue we see is that the extra platform in the middle of the cat scratcher is quite small for most cats at six inches wide. We can see how adding other accessories and items from the activity wall would be helpful for the cat to use the platform, but by itself, it doesn’t offer much stability to stand on.

At just under $40, this is one of our more expensive cat scratchers, and we wouldn’t necessarily suggest this unless you plan on buying other accessories to make a cat wall. However, its sleek and modern design helps create a fun space for your cat and doesn’t create an eyesore.

PETMAKER - Cat Scratcher Post

Petmaker - 3-post scratcher

If you’ve got multiple cats or kittens, the Petmaker – Cat Scratcher Post is a great option because it’s made up of three sisal rope scratching posts and a woven carpeted top and a bottom for perching. There are also plenty of toys connected to the platform to entice cats to scratch and play.

We like that the Petmaker is both a scratcher and a small cat tree. Our tester Gob frequently stretches and scratches on the various posts and then climbs on top for a better view of his bird friends through a window. This platform is stable enough that it doesn’t move when 12-pound Gob jumps straight to the platform from the ground and sleeps on the top for hours. Read more…

Assembly was simple, but it took a moment to line up the holes on the base and platform. It comes with all the tools and screws necessary with easy instructions. At a little over $40, this is one of our more expensive scratchers, but we like this item’s versatility and multi-cat opportunities. It comes in two colors (brown or gray), and its compact size makes it great for smaller houses or apartments.

Fukumaru - 3-Sided Vertical Cat Scratching Post

Fukumaru - 3-sided corrugated scratching post

If you’re looking for a modern-designed cardboard scratcher, the Fukumaru – 3-Sided Vertical Cat Scratching Post is another stylish option. This scratcher includes three corrugated cardboard pads with wood panels for stability that are screwed together to make a pyramid shape.

Fukumaru does a great job designing cat accessories with instructions that are easy to follow and comes with all the tools you need to assemble. It took longer than the other scratchers to assemble, and you needed to properly align the holes before screwing the plastic screws into the cardboard. Read more…

While we liked that the center of the scratcher could also be used as a bed or place for cats to hide, we wished it was heavier to stabilize the scratcher. We found that our cats, who typically preferred cardboard scratchers, didn’t like when the scratcher moved while in use. Once you placed it on a carpet, it prevented a majority of unwanted movement.

SmartyKat - Scratch Up Cardboard

Smartykat - hanging scratcher

In theory, the SmartyKat – Scratch Up Cardboard sounded great because it allows you to increase the height of an 18-inch cardboard pad to the height of a doorknob. However, after placing it on several doorknobs, it was simply too high to use and moved around frequently when we tried to entice the cats to use the pad.

While the cardboard on the SmaryKat was also reinforced and corrugated, many of our cat testers didn’t like how high it was to use (or unstable on the doorknob) and left it untouched. Even our cats that loved to scratch vertical cardboard pads, Mizuki and Mikasa, didn’t bother stretching up to scratch the new cardboard surface. We eventually removed the cardboard and placed it on the floor, which also was unenticing. Read more…

Our testers assumed this was due to the smaller scratching area and lack of space for the cat to grip the cardboard properly. At $5, this was our cheapest model; however, we wouldn’t repurchase this because it’s too small and unstable.

Catinsider - Cactus Cat Scratching Post

Catinsider - cactus scratching post

We were so excited to try the Catinsider – Cactus Cat Scratching Post because it was so cute, and we liked a similar design of cactus cat trees by PAWZ. However, we quickly realized that the quality of the Catinsider was not the same caliber as our previous cactus tree.

We noticed that the staples connecting the green sisal rope along the posts were visible, and the rope was already fraying. The cactus’s top portion was also bent, making the design look like a sad cactus. After assembly, we realized that the short string connecting the toy to the scratcher was also shorter than our other cat trees and scratchers–making the toy less enticing because it couldn’t move around too much during playtime. Read more…

As much as we didn’t like the quality and design of this scratcher, our cat testers did enjoy stretching and using this item. However, after a few weeks, we noticed the sisal rope wear down and slump at the bottom. During rough scratching, we also noticed that it tended to tip slightly like the MeCool scratcher–even though it was a lot shorter in height.

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travel cat scratcher

Bryan Vu , Editor

Bryan is our cooking and kitchen expert, with more than 15 years of experience of cooking and testing kitchen products. When outside of the kitchen, he enjoys woodworking, photography, videography and figuring out how to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle. He thoroughly enjoys discovering the best, whether it’s ingredients or equipment, and finding products that can stand the rigors of daily use.

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Sean Fleming/EyeEm / Getty Images

Cats love to scratch. They don’t tear up your couch because they hate your taste in furniture. Scratching is an instinctive behavior. 

Cats need to stretch their bodies and flex their claws and feet. When they scratch, they can mark their territory using the scent glands in their paws and with the visual scratch marks. Scratching also allows them to slough off the dead top layer of their claws.

The key, of course, is to give your cat a place to scratch that both of you find acceptable. We looked for cat scratchers that were made with as many natural products as we could find, including natural sisal rope, recycled paper products, and wood.

Invite your cat up to the keyboard and take a look at the best eco-friendly cat scratchers.

Best Overall

Catipilla cat scratcher.

Courtesy of Etsy

This wall-mounted scratcher gives your feline friend plenty of room to stretch. It comes in four sizes and has a sleek, clean design. The product features South American sisal rope. According to the manufacturer, they look for the “whitest” natural sisal rope they can find and never bleach it. You can buy replacement cylinders for the post once your cat has done a number on the sisal.

The scratcher is very eco-friendly. The aluminum is sourced from 79 percent recycled material, and packaging is made from 100 percent recycled material. All aluminum, platforms, plates, casing, and packaging are also recyclable, and Catipilla has a paper-free office

The main downside is that because the company is based in the United Kingdom, there is a substantial shipping fee to other countries.

Best Budget

Smartykat scratch up cat scratcher.

Courtesy of Walmart

Whether you just want to try a scratcher for your cat or want to put a bunch of them all over your home, this is a very economical option. The SmartyKat hanging scratcher is made from recycled cardboard and is recyclable when your cat has shredded it. You can either put it on the floor or hang it from a door with the over-the-knob cardboard holder, although some cats will ignore over-the-knob scratchers that don't offer a secure grip. The scratcher is about 20 inches long and comes with catnip.

A statement on the company website says it was founded on the principle that “environmentally responsible products should be as functional, as affordable, and as stylish as conventional ones,” promising that products are made with “high-quality recycled, reclaimed, organic, and sustainable materials whenever possible.”

Best Minimalist Design

Tuft + paw zip scratching post.

Courtesy of Tuft + Paw

This upright scratcher features tightly woven sisal carpet over plywood on a sturdy, wide base, so it’s less likely to topple over if your cat is energetic when it's scratching time. It’s 36 inches tall, so there’s plenty of room for cats that really like to stretch.

Because this scratching post is a sleek, modern design, you won’t feel like you have to tuck it in a corner. It comes in three muted, earthy colors: tan, brown, and gray. The durable sisal wipes clean with a lint roller.

Best Recycled

Way basics vertical cat scratcher.

Courtesy of Way Basics

If you don’t want to permanently attach a scratching post to the wall, this is a slick solution. The Way Basics Vertical Scratcher goes flat against a surface, allowing your cat to get in a long stretch while working those scratching instincts.

Eco-friendly and sustainable, the scratcher is made from a product called Z-board, which is composed of recycled paper products. It’s non-toxic and has no formaldehyde or VOCs. The product comes with some organic catnip in case you need help luring your kitty to start scratching. There’s a lifetime guarantee if used correctly.

Best for Small Spaces

Smartcat combination scratcher.

Courtesy of Chewy

This sisal scratcher is very versatile. You can mount it on the wall, hang it over a door, or prop it up on the floor. At 24 inches tall, it doesn’t take up a lot of space, but it’s long enough to give your cat plenty of room to stretch and scratch.

Nubby sisal naturally inspires scratching. Rubber feet will keep the post from skidding across the floor. This simple scratcher can last for many years before it has to be replaced. Some cats even liked to take naps on it after a vigorous scratching session.

Best Custom

Cats cozy space floor-to-ceiling cat tree.

If you really want to splurge on your best pal, this is the place to start. This Etsy shop has great ideas and uses all-natural materials, mostly solid wood and sisal rope. You can create floor-to-ceiling trees and scratching posts with baskets or shelves for your cat to perch. The shelves have 100 percent natural wool felt pads.

You can work with CatsCozySpace to come up with pretty much any configuration. However, the shop is based in Poland, so shipping is expensive and may take about two months to arrive after an order is placed.

Best Natural Wood

Black diamond cat trees wood scratching post.

Handmade in Canada, these solid cedar scratching posts are a great option for cats that prefer digging their claws into solid wood. Basic and gorgeous, the scratcher is a simple all-natural wooden post mounted to a carpeted square base for stability. At 36 inches, it's a good height for adult cats to reach and scratch.

Natural cedar develops cracks. That's normal, says the manufacturer, and won’t affect the integrity (or the good looks) of your cat’s post. If it's starting to get too worn to appeal to your cat, you can sand the surface down and the surface will look like new again.

The Catipilla Cat Scratcher is a slick, wall-mounted scratcher made of South American sisal rope with easy-to-replace cartridges. If you don’t want to permanently attach something to the wall, check out the Vertical Scratcher Cat Toy made of recycled materials by Way Basics.

What to Look for in an Eco-Friendly Cat Scratcher

There are many cat scratchers on the market made with plastic or carpet spun from synthetic fibers. These aren’t the most eco-friendly materials because they’re typically made from fossil fuel byproducts. Instead, look for natural or recycled materials. 

Sisal rope is commonly found in scratchers, which comes from a plant native to South America. Similar to hemp , sisal can be grown with no pesticides or chemical fertilizers and is fully biodegradable at the end of a product’s life. Another sustainable option is recycled/recyclable cardboard.

Scratch Texture

If you’ve caught your kitty clawing something you’d prefer he or she didn’t destroy, you probably have some idea of what kind of materials appeal to your cat. Many cats like something with plenty of texture for their claws to sink into, but if you’re not sure where to start, consider an inexpensive cardboard option. 

If you have a big cat, you’ll probably want a bigger scratcher, or consider getting a scratcher that can be mounted to higher spot on the wall, like our Best Overall pick. On the other hand, you’ll want to make sure the scratch pad isn’t too high for smaller cats or kittens. Ether way, many cats prefer a scratcher that has a wide base or can be firmly attached to the wall, so they can sink their claws into something that's stable.

Why Trust Treehugger?

To create this list, we researched cat scratchers made from natural and recycled materials, while avoiding plastic and synthetic fabrics.

The proud mom of a rescue dog, Mary Jo DiLonardo pet sits all the neighborhood cats. For more than 25 years, Mary Jo has covered a wide range of topics focused on nature, pets, health, science, and anything that helps make the world a better place. She has spent more than six years with Treehugger, formerly under the Mother Nature Network brand.

This article was edited by Senior Treehugger Editor Margaret Badore , who has a cat that loves to claw at cardboard scratchers like our budget pick. 

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The Best Cat Scratchers

The Best Cat Scratchers (2024 Reviews)

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Cats don’t usually scratch with destruction in mind. They have instinctual needs to mark their territory, relieve stress, and keep their claws clean and healthy. Unfortunately, if you don’t have enough cat scratchers available in your home, your furniture, window sills, walls, and carpet could become your cat’s next target. Cat scratchers strategically placed throughout your home can fulfill your cat’s need to scratch and protect your possessions from damage. They create a win-win situation for all felines and humans who share a living space.

We’ve researched and reviewed dozens of cat scratchers in search of the best the market has to offer. While scouring through the options, we looked into the features that will make the most difference to you and your cat. It meant taking a close look at how features like size balanced out the important issues of durability and stability. We’ve narrowed down the choices to those that will destress your cat so you both can rest easy.

PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher Lounge

We love the PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher Lounge because who loves to lounge more than a cat? This scratcher combines a fun, interesting shape with the quality to withstand heavy use from more than one cat. The modern design and choice of muted colors allow this model to blend into your home but still be an effective way for your cat to maintain his health. Finally, a dense cardboard construction not only applies resistance to your cat’s claws but prevents catnip from falling through the cardboard to the floor.

In This Article

The 5 Top-Rated Cat Scratchers

*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change

Our Top Pick: PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher Lounge

The PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher Lounge has the best all-around combination of durability and design. The unique infinity shape definitely gives it a modern vibe with any of the three color/pattern choices. The infinity shape gives your cat a place to hide, crawl through, bat toys, or lounge. This cat scratcher isn’t an eyesore. You can leave it on the floor as an easy access lounge or hang one or two on the wall to create a perch with a shelf-like appearance.  Dense, recycled cardboard covers every surface and provides hours of scratch time. It holds up to heavy use, which means you won’t be replacing it anytime soon. And, it’s reversible. Once one side starts to wear out, you can flip it over and use the other side. Many people like to spread a little catnip over their cat’s toys but that can lead to catnip on the carpet or furniture. The dense cardboard structure of this scratcher prevents catnip from falling through, preserving your flooring and giving your cat the best chance to adjust to his new scratcher. 

PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher Lounge Key Features:

  • Three color choices
  • Thick, dense cardboard
  • Reversible design
  • 6-month warranty
  • Dimensions: 34 x 10.5 x 10.5 inches

Our Runner Up Pick: Bergan Turbo Cat Scratcher Toy

Bergan Turbo Cat Scratcher Toy

The Bergan Turbo Cat Scratcher Toy combines two favorite feline pastimes — scratching and play. This scratcher features a circular corrugated scratchpad surrounded by a track with a plastic ball that your cat can chase, nudge, or pounce on at any time. The ball stays in the track whether your cat uses his nose or claws to nudge and attack. Hunting instincts are strong even in domesticated cats and this toy appeals and feeds those instincts so you’re cat can fulfill his natural needs.

Many cat scratchers have to be thrown away once the cardboard wears out, but not with this model.  It’s truly designed to last with a removable center scratchpad. Replacement scratchpads are available separately from the manufacturer. You can order more than one so you have several scratchpads on hand. The permanent plastic base is sturdy and durable enough to take on frequent, heavy use. Because it’s designed for floor use, this model will appeal more readily to cats who are natural floor scratchers. If you’ve got a wall climber, you might need to add a little catnip to get the ball rolling … literally. 

Bergan Turbo Cat Scratcher Toy Key Features:

  • Permanent plastic base
  • Replaceable scratchpad
  • Removable ball
  • Dimensions: 16-inch diameter plastic base

Best Budget Pick: Catit Style Scratcher

Catit Style Scratcher

Though it’s simple in shape and function, cats love the Catit Style Scratcher . The rounded ends provide enough resistance for comfortable lounging. Add to that the durable cardboard and you’ve got a cat scratcher that can fit in the corner, next to the couch, or in a bedroom without taking up too much space. This cat scratcher comes in three different configurations, though each has the same corrugated surface, you may find that your cat prefers one shape over the other. The S-chaise tends to appeal to the playful can that likes to hide while the urban bench is meant for those cats with a superior bearing that prefer to look down on their subjects and, of course, scratch when the urge hits them. Your cat may need time to adjust to a new scratcher, which is why the manufacturer also includes a bonus bag of catnip that can be spread over its surface. The catnip draws the cat in and before you know it, it becomes one of their favorite locations in the house. 

Catit Style Scratcher Key Features:

  • Three colored, patterned designs
  • Three configurations —lounge, S-chaise, urban bench
  • Dimensions: 8.7 x 19.3 x 1.2 inches

Best Cat Scratching Post: AmazonBasics Cat Activity Tree

AmazonBasics Cat Activity Tree

The AmazonBasics Cat Activity Tree   does far more than provide an area for scratching. It’s an all-inclusive cat scratcher, cat tree , and perch rolled into one tall piece of cat furniture. Luckily, it comes in two different sizes. One model has two-tiers while this one has three, including seven scratching posts covered in jute. However, the jute surfaces aren’t the only place your cat can scratch. Does your cat like to dig in the carpet? This scratching post has three carpeted surfaces that can take your cats claws a lot better than the carpet in your living room. 

To top it all off, the third level has a walled perch that’s perfect for preparing for a pounce or for lounging and sleeping.  The sheer size and height of this model make it especially nice for those who have more than one cat slinking through their home. Scratch, climb, or rest —this activity tree fulfills a cat’s most basic of instincts and needs. And, while it’s tall, the nearly 18-inch base doesn’t eat up all your floor space. 

AmazonBasics Cat Activity Tree Key Features:

  • Triple platform
  • Seven scratching posts
  • Top platform doubles as a cat bed
  • Dimensions: 17.7 x 17.7 x 45.9 inches

Best Cardboard Cat Scratcher: PetFusion Jumbo Cat Scratcher Lounge

PetFusion Jumbo Cat Scratcher Lounge

The PetFusion Jumbo Cat Scratcher Lounge isn’t for the faint of heart or those short of space. This behemoth scratcher looks amazing on the floor or hung on the wall as a shelf-like cat perch. Recycled, corrugated cardboard covers the exterior on both sides, creating a reversible surface and doubling the scratchable surface area. 

A sleek oval shape lets it blend into modern home designs while still providing ample space for your cat to lounge, scratch, and watch his people from afar. The sheer size and available scratching surface create an ideal situation for homes with multiple cats. It’s large enough that one cat can be lounging inside while another scratches on the top and, as long as their not hostile towards one another, they won’t be disturbing their scratching partner. When hung as a cat perch, several animals can enjoy a view, giving them full reign over their feline kingdom. That also frees up floor space for all the humans who happen to share the house.

PetFusion Jumbo Cat Scratcher Lounge Key Features:

  • Curved lounging surface
  • Reversible for twice the scratching area
  • Large enough for multiple cats
  • Dimensions: 39 x 11 x 13 inches 

Who Should Buy a Cat Scratcher

If you own a cat and you like your furniture, you’ll probably need a cat scratcher. A cat scratcher allows your cat to follow his instincts without destroying the home of those with whom he happens to share a living space. Cats scratch for a number of different reasons, none of which are to annoy their human. Scratching helps remove the outer layer of the claw to reveal the new growth underneath. Have you ever noticed nail sheaths near your couch? Your cat has been performing important work while tearing up your furniture.

Cats also need a scratcher to keep up their strength and dexterity. The pull and tug of scratching stretches and strengthens muscles. Each scratch reaches into the back and shoulder muscles with different angles targeting slightly different muscle groups. The whole process loosens knots and prevents stiffness.

The emotional benefits of scratching are as important as the physical ones. Cat scratchers can be beneficial if your cat seems unusually stressed or tense. Frustration, anxiety, or even irritation with you or another pet can push your cat to reach for a rug, wall, or curtain for a good scratch. But if you strategically place your cat scratchers, your cat can destress without pushing you over the edge and destroying your shared home.

If your cat is a chewer, check out our review of the best cat chew toys to give your favorite feline an outlet to satisfy her need to chew. Investing in a few good cat toys is always recommended to keep your cat engaged and entertained, so she’s less likely to turn to destructive activities. 

Important Features to Consider

A cat scratcher not only needs to be functional for your cat but it needs to seamlessly fit into your home. Here are some of the features you’ll need to think about before making your selection:

  • Size. You’ll have to think about the height, width, and depth as cat scratchers vary in size by type and model. Take a good look at your available floor or wall space and remember that your cat will spend time lounging near the scratcher too. For stand-alone models, which most cat scratchers are, the base needs to be wide enough that it won’t tip over. Once a cat has been toppled over enough times, he’s not likely to use the scratcher very often.
  • Mounted or stand alone.  Some cat scratchers can be mounted on the wall or floor while others are stand alone. Mounted models take more time to set up but it might be worth it to know your cat can’t knock it over. If you go the mounted route, you may need to decide between models that can be mounted on the wall, along the floorboards, or to the floor.
  • Replaceable cardboard.  Eventually, your cat will wear through the cardboard on the cat scratcher. Models with replaceable scratchpads will prevent you from needing to buy an entirely new cat scratcher every time your cat makes his way through another pad.  
  • Reversible surface.  Some cat scratchers have cardboard on the top and bottom so you can flip it once one side gets worn out. It’s basically twice the scratching surface with a single cat scratcher.
  • Perching surface.  Cats have a natural hunting instinct. Cat scratchers with one or more surfaces on which to perch let your cat do what their feline nature demands. Posts, lounges, and cat scratch trees offer the best perching options.
  • Vertical vs. horizontal scratching surfaces. Cats like to scratch on both vertical and horizontal surfaces as it allows them to reach different muscle groups. Some cat scratchers are designed for both while others may only have one or the other. Vertical scratching usually involves a post, but be sure the post is tall enough that your cat can fully extend and stretch his body for the full benefit.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get my cat to use a new cat scratcher?

Cats are notorious for their lack of trainability, but these highly intelligent creatures can learn as well as any other animal. You just have to think like a cat. Start by placing the cat scratcher in an area your cat already scratches. If he’s been eyeing your couch, put it next to the couch. If a windowsill or door frame catches his eye, place it there.

Even when the cat scratcher is perfectly placed, your cat may ignore it at first. Make it a more tempting target by placing a few treats on or next to it. Some cat scratchers come with a bag of catnip to help attract your cat but if your cat has a favorite toy or cat treat, that might work too.

How do I know what kind of cat scratcher my cat will like?

You can’t really know until you’ve bought and tried a cat scratcher, but your cat can give you a few clues before you’ve invested too much money. Take a look at the surfaces he’s already scratching and try to find something that’s similar. If he’s digging at your carpet, a carpet covered scratcher might be perfect. A cat who scratches the side of your couch may prefer a sisal covered post that more closely matches the fabric of the couch. Usually, you’ll have more success if you follow your cat’s lead.

How do I decide between an upright, incline, or flat cat scratcher?

You’re really looking at the differences between a post scratcher, angled scratcher, or scratch pad. It really depends on your cat’s preferences. Take a look at the angle of the surfaces he already likes to scratch. To give your cat the best options, offer a couple of scratchers that have different angles so your cat can decide for himself. He needs to target different muscle groups at different times so giving him a few options lets him decide when and how to stretch himself out. 

What difference does the texture of the cat scratcher make?

To you, it may mean nothing, but to your cat, it means the difference between a scratcher he can’t resist and one he’ll completely ignore. Generally, cats like a surface that lets them really dig their claws in. They need resistance so they can stretch their muscles and pull on their claws.

Cats also tend to prefer a little noise. Two of the most popular options are sisal and corrugated cardboard. Cardboard makes an excellent tearing sound, and sisal, especially when it’s on a hollow post, provides a satisfying scratching noise.

Carpet-covered cat scratchers aren’t as popular as either cardboard or sisal and some people believe it can encourage your cat to scratch at your carpet. However, some cats prefer it over any other surface and it certainly provides good resistance and sound.

Other Cat Scratchers We Reviewed

In our search for the best of the best, we looked at 20 other cat scratchers. They may not have made our list of the top five, but there are some great options that could be the perfect cat scratcher for your favorite feline. We’ve included the information you’ll need to compare until you find the right model for your cat.

Cat Scratch Posts

Cardboard cat scratchers, cat scratch lounges, cat scratchpads.

Animals Favorite Cat Scratching Post

Animals Favorite Cat Scratching Post

This post brings a touch of whimsy into your lives. The sisal wrapped post is topped by a butterfly toy while the butterfly patterned base has a decidedly feminine flair. 

Key Features:

  • Non-toxic fibers and materials
  • Small size for homes with limited space
  • Dimensions: 11.8 x 11.8 x 19 inches

4CLAWS Wall-Mounted Scratching Post

4CLAWS Wall-Mounted Scratching Post

Tall and sturdy, even the largest of cats will get a good stretch with this post. The flat surface puts more of the cardboard within reach of your cat’s claws.

Key Features: 

  • Wall mounted for improved sturdiness
  • Includes stainless steel hooks for mounting
  • Dimensions: 5.5 x 5.7 x 26 inches

4CLAWS Jute Tripod Scratching Post

4CLAWS Jute Tripod Scratching Post

The tripod design of this scratching posts appeals to those cats who can’t help but climb. It also offers several jute-covered surfaces at various angles for varied scratching options. 

  • Aluminum joint piece requires no tools for assembly
  • Covered in eco-friendly natural jute
  • Dimensions: 21 x 21 x 30 inches

4CLAWS Wall-Mounted Round Scratching Post

4CLAWS Wall-Mounted Round Scratching Post

If you’re tight on floor space, this wall-mounted post takes care of your cat’s scratching needs while leaving your floor clear. It can be mounted at any height, which allows you to adjust the reach according to your cat’s size.

  • Aluminum frame with stainless steel mounting screws
  • Sisal rope covering
  • Dimensions: 3.6 x 3.6 x 17.8 inches 

MidWest Cat Furniture Scratching Post

MidWest Cat Furniture Scratching Post

A wide base and an impressive 41 inches of post make this model one that works for large cats and multi-cat homes.  The durable sisal wrap proves to be tempting and satisfying for most felines. 

  • Thick, tall scratching post
  • Easy assembly with all necessary tools included
  • Dimensions: 19 x 19 x 41 inches

PARTYSAVING Pet Palace

PARTYSAVING Pet Palace

A paw-shaped carpeted base makes this is a fun, sturdy scratching post. The durable sisal-wrapped post has a toy mouse on top that lets your cat burn through their energy without damaging your furniture. 

  • Base covered in faux fur
  • Includes attached mouse toy
  • Dimensions: 13 x 11.25 x 19 inches

SmartCat The Ultimate Scratching Post

SmartCat Ultimate Scratching Post

This scratching post has impressive stability with a classy wood base. At 32 inches high, it’s just tall enough for your cat to climb before leaping back to the floor. 

  • Wood base and top
  • Sisal-covered post
  • Dimensions: 16 x 16 x 32 inch base

Trixie Pet Products Parla Scratching Post

Trixie Pet Products Parla Scratching Post

A natural sisal post with a plush carpeted base creates a basic but effective place for cats to work out muscles and rid themselves of stress. This sturdy post can take heavy scratching and easily blends with most home decor. 

  • Two carpet color options
  • Sisal-wrapped post
  • Dimensions: 15.75 x 15.75 inch base; 3.5 x 24.25 inch post

FATCAT Big Mama’s Scratch ‘n Play Ramp

FATCAT Big Mama's Scratch 'n Play Ramp

This angled cardboard ramp comes with a springy toy that lets your cat stretch and play to his heart’s content. The dense cardboard holds up well to heavy use even in homes that have more than one cat. 

  • Reversible cardboard scratchpad
  • Includes a detachable toy and catnip
  • Dimensions: 2.5 x 10 x 18.5 inches

GoPets Premium Cat Scratcher

GoPets Premium Cat Scratcher

A reversible cardboard surface sits at the perfect angle for stretching the feline back and shoulder muscles. Add on two cubby holes to sneak through and you’ve created a fun, recreational corner for your cat. 

  • Reversible cardboard pad
  • Two cutouts for additional play options
  • Dimensions: 15.5 x 8.5 x 8 inches

PetFusion 3-Sided Vertical Cat Scratcher

PetFusion 3-Sided Vertical Cat Scratcher

Six scratchable and rotatable sides provide plenty of scratching surface. Cats can crawl, play, hide, and scratch on the interior triangle for a simple play/scratcher combo.

  • Recycled cardboard 
  • Non-toxic corn starch glue
  • Dimensions: 18 x 10.5 x 16 inches

GoPets Infinity Lounge

GoPets Infinity Lounge

The concave design of this scratcher makes it the perfect place to scratch or relax. A removable insert significantly increases the amount of scratching surface so your furniture and possessions stay safe from happy claws. 

  • Reversible design with insert provides extra scratching space
  • Recycled cardboard
  • Dimensions: 16.9 x 7.8 x 4.3 inches

Petstages Cat Scratcher

Petstages Cat Scratcher

The unique X-design creates the perfect place for perching or lounging. Multiple scratching areas let cats stretch in various angles to reach all the major muscle groups. 

  • Easy to store folding X-design
  • Several corrugated scratching surfaces
  • Dimensions: 21.21 x 14 x 3.25 inches

Petstages Easy Life Cat Scratcher and Hammock

Petstages Easy Life Cat Scratcher Hammock

A colorful, fun shape sets this scratcher/hammock apart. If you’ve got a cat that loves to lounge, it’s hard to pass by this bowl-shaped scratcher.

  • Corrugated cardboard bowl for lounging
  • Includes catnip
  • Dimensions: 13.5 x 4 x 13.5 inches

Coching Cat Scratcher

Coching Cat Scratcher

The Coching scratcher has a slight wave to the design that cats love for impromptu lounging. But, it’s hard to beat the multi-directional cardboard so your cat can dig in from any angle.

  • Dimensions: 15.7 x 7.8 x 2.1 inches

Diversity World Natural Sisal Scratching Mat

Diversity World Natural Sisal Scratching Mat

If you’ve got a carpet scratcher, this is the scratching mat for you. It almost looks like a rug so it can blend seamlessly into your home, but the sisal is perfect for your cat to claw and scratch without damaging your carpet. 

  • Natural, woven sisal
  • Anti-slip backing
  • Dimensions: 19.7 x 19.7 x .5 inches

Kitty City XL Wide Corrugated Scratchers

Kitty City XL Wide Corrugated Scratchers

Though the design is basic and simple, this set of three provides plenty of area for cats to dig in their claws. They can easily be placed anywhere in the home without drawing attention, except for your cat’s, of course.

  • Includes catnip 
  • Made of recycled,  heavy duty cardboard
  • Dimensions: 18 x 10 x 1.5 inches

Old Tjikko Cat Scratch Pad

Old Tjikko Cat Scratch Pad

While it doesn’t look like a traditional scratchpad,  this unique design has a good scratching surface and fun toys. With both a normal and bell ball, your cat will be happy for hours. 

  • Two balls; normal and bell
  • Angled design for maximum stretch
  • Dimensions: 11 x 9.4 x 7 inches

SmartyKat Sisal Scratcher

SmartyKat Sisal Scratcher

The inclined surface of this scratchers lets cats reach high to stretch shoulder and back muscles. A sisal surface offers a durable way to keep claws healthy and strong. 

  • Wooden frame covered in sisal
  • Organic catnip included
  • Dimensions: 15.2 x 7 x 7 inches

SmartyKat Scratch Scroll

SmartyKat Scratch Scroll

A unique shape and snap-on toy make this scratcher hard for cats to resist. It has multiple surface types with carpet and sisal for a textural variety that cats love. 

  • Carpet and sisal surface
  • Attachable feather toy
  • Dimensions: 17.8 x 11 x 6.5 inches

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The 7 Best Cat Scratching Posts of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our cats loved the SmartyCat Scratch Scroll Cat Scratcher

Jessie Quinn is a Los Angeles-based contributing shopping writer at PEOPLE with over 10 years of experience covering all things beauty, fashion, and lifestyle. At PEOPLE, she collaborates with the PEOPLE Tested team to share our top recommendations for everything from the best shapewear to the best dark spot correctors.

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People / Kaya Abrahamson

Cat scratching posts are an essential item for pet owners. Along with cat toys , they allow cats a way to scratch and play without destroying the sides of your furniture or walls. 

According to Joey Lusvardi , a certified cat behavior consultant, scratching is a natural behavior for cats and helps not only keep claws healthy but also serves as a communication tool and can even help them relieve stress. “Your cat is going to scratch things if you don’t give them a place that’s acceptable for them to scratch,” Lusvardia explains, noting that a cat scratching post is an excellent addition to the space and can ensure your furniture remains unscathed while providing your fur baby with an outlet for this important and healthy habit. 

With so many cat scratching posts available, choosing the right one for your kitty can get a bit overwhelming — which is why we did the legwork for you. We tested 18 popular cat scratching posts and watched how our cats reacted to them over a two-week period, narrowing down to our top choices. We evaluated each one for cats’ preferences, ease of assembly, durability, sturdiness, and construction quality. We also considered the design and how the style would fit seamlessly into your home. 

Here are top PEOPLE Tested picks for the best cat scratching posts, including the best cat condo, tower, and even a fun, interactive option with toys.

Best Overall

Smartykat scratch scroll cat scratcher.

  • Assembly 5 /5
  • Design 5 /5
  • Quality 5 /5

No assembly required

Super lightweight, making it easy to move from room to room

Includes a feather toy for extra stimulation

Cats loved napping in the tunnel and atop the curved surface

Some cats might prefer a taller scratching post that they can climb onto

May not be big enough for a multi-cat household

After testing more than a dozen options, we (and our cats) loved this cat scratching post the most. Its structural design allows cats to climb on it, and the felines loved the included feather toy. It also doesn’t require any assembly, which is a major plus. It felt sturdy, high quality, and very durable to withstand lots of scratching — it contains both sisal fabric and a carpeted surface to entice scratching. Plus, we loved the neutral color that could blend in with your home decor. Since it's super lightweight (less than 3 lbs.), it can be easily transported to different areas of the home to keep cats busy. On top of that, the design features a little tunnel that allows cats to hide out, which they loved, but they also enjoyed taking a cat nap on the curved top surface as well. 

One drawback? As this sits on the ground, some cats who love to climb may prefer a taller scratching post. The scratching post is an excellent value, as you get a scratching post and a toy for under $30 (when it's not on sale), which means it tops the list as one of our favorite pet products.

Dimensions: 18.5 x 11.42 x 7.09 inches | Weight: 2.65 lbs.

Best with Toys

Petmaker cat scratching post.

  • Design 3 /5

Assembly is so easy and quick, you won't even need to read the instructions

Three scratching posts in one, making it an excellent value

Comes with multiple different dangling toys for cats to play with, which kept our kitten busy

Cats can rest on the top perch or the bottom

Weighing 5 lbs., larger cats may knock it over

Featuring three scratching posts in one, this option comes with several different dangling toys for cats to play with — ours especially took to the hanging mouse. We tested this out on a playful kitten who was completely obsessed with it and spent hours keeping busy and hunting the included toys. We also liked that when the cats got sleepy from playing, they could take a rest on the top perch or the bottom. It was also quick and easy to assemble.

Since it is on the shorter side, it’s possible that larger or more destructive cats will knock it over; however, we found that it was overall very sturdy. Its lightweight structure makes it easy to move around to different rooms as needed, although it would have been nice to have a few more color options to choose from. 

Dimensions: 15.75 x 15.75 x 19.25 inches | Weight: 4.98 lbs.

PAWMONA 3 Story Cat Tree Condo

Durable, well-made, and the heavier weight means it won't easily get knocked over

Lots of play opportunities with toys, windows, and perches

On the more expensive side compared to other options on our list

Weighing 23 lbs., it's not as portable as other options we tested

When it comes to favorite cat trees , there are several reasons to love this one. First, there is no assembly required, which is always appreciated in a cat condo. On top of that, it is aesthetically pleasing and won’t sacrifice your home decor for typically less-than-stylish cat accessories. Despite having a more minimalistic barrel design, the cat condo also boasts lots of play opportunities with three windows, two dangling toys, and a podium top that allows cats to sit up high and nap or peek out the window. Plus, it’s covered in a scratching material so there's plenty of space for multiple cats to get their frustrations out. We found it to be durable and sturdy enough not to be knocked over, even with larger cats.

Albeit on the more expensive side, we think this cat-scratching condo is totally worth it, considering all of its design features, durability, and how chic it looks.

Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 38.5 inches | Weight: 22.9 lbs.

SmartCat The Ultimate Scratching Post

Quick and easy to assemble

Strong and sturdy base, despite being super lightweight

Tall enough for cats who like to stretch while they scratch

Only contains one type of scratching surface (sisal)

If you want a simple and interactive cat-scratching tower, consider this sleek option. After testing this post out over the course of two weeks, we found that it was super easy to assemble, has a durable and sturdy base despite only being 2 lbs., and is an excellent choice for those looking for something that blends into home decor better than other cat accessories, like a cat litter box . Because of the vertical design, this tall tower is also perfect for cats who like to stretch while they scratch. This post does just contain one scratching surface, which is a sisal fabric that most cats enjoy. While not every cat will take to this post, those who love to stretch and climb on towers will get lots of use out of it.

Dimensions: 6.3 x 6.3 x 12.6 inches | Weight: 2.2 lbs.

People / Maddy Newton & Brooke Kane

Best Design

The refined feline calypso 31 inch rattan cat scratcher.

Stunning sculptural design made from rattan, a popular home decor material

Sturdy and heavy enough for bigger cats

Tall enough for cats to get a full stretch

Durable enough that it doesn't shred, even after heavy use

One of the more expensive options we tested

Some cats may not like the rattan material for scratching

Aside from function, design is also important to consider when shopping for cat scratching posts, since they have the potential to become an eyesore in your space if it doesn’t blend well with your home decor. Compared to all the cat scratching posts we tested, this option had the best design by far. It’s a beautiful and sturdy post that looks more like a sculptural piece of art than a cat scratcher, and it's made from a rattan material which is especially trendy right now in the interior design world.

In addition to its looks, we found it was easy to assemble, durable, and sturdy enough for even large cats to climb into. However, the rattan post may not catch the attention of some cats who prefer to scratch a sisal or carpet fabric. We used catnip spray on it at first before our cat took to it, but after he realized he was supposed to scratch away, he really loved it. Despite it being pricier, if you know your cat will take to the rattan, we think it's a good value for the design and durability alone.

Dimensions: 16 x 31 x 16 inches | Weight: 9 lbs.

Best Wall-Mounted

7 ruby road cat scratching post.

  • Assembly 4 /5

Lightweight enough to mount with Command Strips, making set-up a breeze

High-quality materials made with a stylish wooden frame

Space-saving design is great for those who don't have enough room for a tower

Pricey for a simple wall-mounted scratching post

No spots for cats to climb or perch

If your cat loves to scratch up high, but you don’t have the space for a standalone cat-scratching tower, this wall-mounted option is a fantastic alternative. This simple scratcher is aesthetically pleasing and would look nice with various home decor styles. We love how lightweight it is — yet, it’s still durable enough to withstand lots of scratching. It was easy to mount to the wall using Command Strips if you don’t want to put holes in the wall. It’s also constructed from high-quality and eco-friendly wood and natural woven sisal for a safe and effective scratch. And, if you want to switch it up for your cat, you can attach the included non-slip feet to the back of the post so your kitty can play with it on the floor, too. Important to note: If your cat likes to climb or perch, this post doesn’t have that option. We also found it to be a bit expensive for a relatively simple design.

Dimensions: 22 x 5.7 x 0.75 inches | Weight: 0.2 lbs.

Best with Catnip

Frisco scratch & roll scratcher cat toy.

Ready to use right out of the box

Lightweight and easy to move from room to room

Cardboard insert provides a safe scratch and is easy to replace

Cardboard scratch pad needs to be replaced more regularly compared to sisal or rattan materials

From a brand that makes one of the best cat carriers comes a part scratching post, part toy. This round and standalone scratch pad features an insert for the cardboard scratchpads, which are easy to replace. This requires no assembly — simply take it out of the box, and it is ready to go. It also provides a nice scratch that isn’t too harsh on claws. We also liked that it included a ball on a track for hours of play. On top of that, the interactive cat toy comes with a package of catnip to add to the fun. (Catnip also protects cats against mosquitos , which is an added bonus!)

After testing this product, we found that the material is durable enough for lots of play, it’s easy to move from room to room, and the ball feature helps captivate our cat’s attention, which is good for their mental health, too. However, you do need to buy and replace the scratch pads as they wear out after use. 

Dimensions: 5 x 2 inches | Weight: Not listed

People / Alicia Long

Things to Consider Before Buying a Cat Scratching Post

Design and material .

Before purchasing a cat scratching post, Dr. Jennifer Bruns, DVM, MPVM at PetSmart Veterinary Services , says to consider the type of scratcher your cat might like best. “Cat scratching posts are most typically found in simple vertical and horizontal configurations, but pet parents can also consider mat scratchers for kitties that might prefer to scratch carpeted floors, or multipurpose scratchers such as cat trees that allow a cat to scratch, lounge, and play in one space,” says Dr. Bruns. If your cat prefers to scratch carpets, the 7 Ruby Road Wall-Mounted Scratcher may be a good option since it can be laid down like a mat, as well as being mounted on a wall.

In addition to design, Dr. Bruns says to also look at the scratching material. “Many scratching posts feature durable sisal rope or fabric, but pet parents can also opt for cardboard scratchers that might wear out faster but provide an option for replacement inserts,” she explains. If you think your cat might prefer to scratch a cardboard surface, the Frisco Scratch & Roll Scratcher Cat Toy is one of our top picks because it combines a toy and scratching pad in one, and you can easily replace the center cardboard scratch pad when it wears out. 

Durability and Weight 

Another thing to consider when shopping for cat scratching posts is durability. “Pet parents should ensure that any scratching post they purchase is sturdy enough to support their cat without tipping over to avoid injury to their pet as well as to themselves,” says Dr. Bruns. When looking at whether or not a cat scratching post is durable enough for your pet, it helps to consider the weight. Lightweight options might be best suitable for smaller cats and kittens, while heavier options like The Refined Feline Calypso Cat Scratcher , which weighs 9 lbs., can stay upright and stable with more weight on it. 

Space and Fit 

The right cat scratching post also needs to fit within your space. “Make sure you get one that can fit into an area in your home where your cat prefers to be and where your cat can engage in the post with plenty of space,” says Erin DeAngelis , a cat product specialist at Pet Supplies Plus . If your cat prefers to play in a few different rooms, it’s also a good idea to provide a couple of options, such as a condo style for your living room and a smaller post or wall-mounted style for your office. 

When considering your space, it also helps to think about your decor — especially for those who want something that blends into your home with ease — and choose an option that matches your style. With so many options to choose from, Lusvardi says there are more design-friendly scratching posts out there (like the gorgeous The Refined Feline Calypso Cat Scratcher and the sleek PAWMONA 3-Story Cat Tree Condo Barrel Tower ) that will match your preferences. “Ultimately, having a few scratching posts around is a much better look than having furniture that’s been shredded,” he notes. 

People / Adam Jacobi

To find the best cat scratching posts, we researched dozens of designs and then conducted real-world testing on 18 options, carefully monitoring how our cats took to the posts over a two-week period. In addition to our cats’ preferences, we also considered ease of assembly, durability, and sturdiness, as well as material and construction quality. And, since some cat scratching posts are essentially furniture, we also made note of the overall design and style of the scratchers to find ones that not only function well but also look nice within the home.

After two weeks of testing, we narrowed it down to the seven best cat scratching posts based on these key factors. The products with the highest average ratings earned a spot on this PEOPLE Tested list.

“The tallest cat tree you can afford and fit into your home is the right one for you,” says Samantha Patterson , an educator at Pet Food Express . “Cats love the ability to climb up, look over their space, and escape scary situations such as dogs or rambunctious children,” she explains. With that said, Lusvardi says the best height for a cat scratching post depends on your cat. “Kittens or cats that are naturally smaller may only need a small post, but, for most cats, you’ll want a post that is at least 30 inches tall,” he explains. This height will ensure that your cat can get a satisfying scratch in, as they prefer to stretch it out when doing so.

According to Dr. Bruns, most cats prefer vertical scratching posts. However, horizontal scratching posts are a good option for senior cats or cats with mobility issues, illness, or injury. “Additionally, horizontal scratching posts can serve as a good starter post for kittens who are first learning how to use a scratching post and may be intimidated by a large vertical variation,” Dr. Bruns explains. 

With that said, Lusvardi says it doesn’t hurt to try both since cats like to have options, and it helps to have multiple cat scratching posts in the home so that cats can utilize them in different rooms. Consider trying a taller, vertical post in your largest space — such as your living room — and then placing a horizontal option in the bedroom or home office area.

According to Lusvardi, this completely depends on the material. “Some materials such as sisal or wood are a bit more durable, while cardboard requires more frequent replacing,” he explains. While some cat scratching products — like the Frisco Scratch & Roll Scratcher Cat Toy — have scratching pads that are meant to be replaced, others feature scratching material as part of the design. If that’s the case, Lusvardi says it doesn’t mean you have to get rid of a well-loved cat scratching post since some materials can be replaced. “If you can find sisal rope online, you can replace the rope on a cat tower which will save you from having to fully replace a post that is otherwise in good shape.”

Jessie Quinn is a contributing commerce writer for PEOPLE and has written for publications such as Byrdie, InStyle, The Spruce, The Sunday Edit, Brit & Co, Romper, and more. For this article, she interviewed several experts, including certified cat behavior consultant Joey Lusvardi, Dr. Jennifer Bruns, DVM, MPVM, cat product specialist Erin DeAngelis, and Samantha Patterson, an educator at Pet Food Express. She also consulted PEOPLE Tested insights, where we evaluated dozens of cat scratching posts on ease of assembly, durability, construction quality, and (most importantly!) our cats’ preferences. 

We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

But we don’t stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we’ve awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

Up Next: The 11 Best Pet Hair Vacuums for Sucking Up Fur, Dander, and Kibble

  • 52 things we love

This Scratching Post Can Stand Up to Even the Most Enthusiastic Cat’s Abuse

A fluffy white cat scratching a Pioneer Pet SmartCat The Ultimate Scratching Post.

My husband and I lovingly referred to our late cat Bucky as “Buckward Scissorhands” because he just didn’t know what to do with his claws. Despite his weekly clipping sessions, I often woke up to little knives kneading my neck and cheeks.

Sometimes he stood up to stretch against a window and yowled in frustration when his claws got stuck in the screen. And don’t even ask me about the state of the fabric on my favorite sofa.

The day we bought a Pioneer Pet SmartCat Ultimate Scratching Post was the day Bucky finally found a purpose for his claws.

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Pioneer Pet SmartCat The Ultimate Scratching Post

The best cat scratcher.

Its durable woven sisal lasts longer than carpet and is better for your pet than rope. It's also one of the tallest scratchers we tested, so your cat can stretch out.

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Multiple times a day, he stretched his lanky kitty noodle body out to reach nearly to the top of the post’s 32-inch frame. And then he’d scratch-scratch-scratch before bounding off to do god knows what (though unfortunately he never learned to trim the hedges).

While I can’t say that Bucky stopped scratching the sofa entirely—I used a fabric shaver to clean up the loose threads—the frequency of destruction dropped dramatically with our redirection efforts. The scratching post was so effective that we bought a second post to lure him away from our fabric bed frame.

After more than two years, the woven-sisal scratching post still looks nearly brand-new, with no signs of fraying. Guide author Kaitlyn Wells, senior staff writer, found that the natural fiber shreds cleanly (unlike carpet) and doesn’t become prickly over time (unlike sisal rope, also common among scratchers).

At 16 pounds, the scratcher is stable enough that you can store a potted plant on its top (which helps it blend into our living room), or your cat might prefer to use the post as a perch to survey their domain.

Make it last

The Ultimate Scratching Post is rectangular in shape, so if you want to encourage the most even wear, you should rotate it regularly. I also recommend placing one in every room where you’re trying to encourage your cat to stop scratching other furniture.

This post is part of our 2020 “52 Things We Love” series, an ode to Wirecutter picks that have withstood the test of time. Read the entire series .

The current version was edited by Alexander Aciman.

Meet your guide

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Signe Brewster

Signe Brewster is an editor on Wirecutter's PC team. She also writes about virtual reality. She previously reported on emerging technology and science for publications like Wirecutter, MIT Technology Review, Wired, Science, and Symmetry Magazine. She spends her free time quilting and pursuing an MFA in creative writing.

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"The 90s Cat" Portable Travel Cat Scratcher

"The 90s Cat" Portable Travel Cat Scratcher

travel cat scratcher

Why It Rocks

You oughta know, every kitty is gonna want to call dibs on this portable scratcher. 

Bring the playful vibes wherever adventure takes you and give your cat something to scratch on a long car ride (not your seats!), weekend hotel stay, or keep at home to add a new element of fun to your kitty's everyday play. Plus, it's a spot for your cat to nap.

The lightweight and simple design makes it easy to store, or bring along for the joy ride. 

Match it with "The 90s Cat" Harness & Leash Set , and "The 90s Cat" Bandana Collar Set .

Size & Materials 

18 x 9.5 x 2 inches 

45.7 x 24.13 x 5 cm 

Made of heavy duty cardboard. 

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United States: For the 48 contiguous United States, we offer free returns and exchanges within 30 days of receipt.   

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Always gotta give your cat a reason to scratch wherever you go!😼

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10 Best Cat Scratcher Lounge in 2024 – Reviews & Top Picks

cat-on-the-scratching-post

Image Credit: Pixabay

Last Updated on February 21, 2024 by Catster Editorial Team

cat-on-the-scratching-post

If you’re a cat parent, you are probably all too familiar with the stress of having your feline friend scratch and claw at your beloved belongings. From shredding your favorite couch to ripping up expensive carpets, a kitty can definitely wreak havoc on your home with her destructive scratching behavior.

Thankfully, cat scratcher lounges give your pet ample opportunity to flex their claws in an appropriate location. Cat scratcher lounges allow your cat to flex her body, relieve stress, and mark its territory. Scratchers allow cats to remove the outer shell of their claws. 

If you’re looking for the purr-fect cat scratcher lounge for your pet, we’ve got you covered. Read our extensive reviews to find out which ones work best for you.

cat paw divider

  • A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites of 2024
  • The 10 Best Cat Scratcher Lounge
  • 1. Hepper Hi-Lo Scratcher – Best Overall

grey-cat-using-hepper-hi-lo-cat-scratcher-from-side

Our favorite cat scratcher lounge is Hepper’s Hi-Lo Scratcher, a beautifully designed scratching board that can be adjusted to three different angles, depending on your cat’s preferred positions. The upright, flat, and angled positions allow your cat to stretch out and lounge while putting their nails to work.

This sturdy scratcher features a stable plywood frame and thick, long-lasting cardboard to keep your cat busy and away from your furniture. Even better, you can buy replacement cardboard to keep the fun going! 

All in all, we think this scratcher offers excellent value and has features you and your cat will love. The only negative is that it does shed a bit of cardboard, but it’s non-toxic and easy to clean up.

At Catster.com, we’ve admired Hepper for many years and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool cat company!

  • Three positions for varied fun
  • Elegant, modern design
  • Sturdy plywood frame
  • Long-lasting cardboard with replacements available
  • Great value
  • Sheds some cardboard
  • 2. Catit Lounge Scratcher with Catnip – Best Value

catit scratcher_Chewy

Looking for the best cat scratcher lounge for the money? Then look no further than the Catit Lounge Scratcher with Catnip! This affordable and stylish scratcher looks great in any area of your home and provides a convenient place for your pet to safely sharpen her claws. The 19.5-inch size is great for larger felines, and the catnip is sure to pique your pet’s interest. Protect your furniture by providing your feline friend with a great claw-scratching option!

The catnip can fall through the scratcher’s curved bottom.

  • Contemporary style
  • Large size fits bigger cats
  • Includes catnip
  • Catnip can fall through bottom, causing a mess
  • 3. PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher Lounge – Premium Choice

petfusion scrather_Chewy

The PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher Lounge puts a new twist on an old favorite. This feline-friendly scratcher is beautifully designed and looks great in any home. Made with eco-friendly and non-toxic materials, the ergonomically curved design cradles your cat in comfort, allowing him to take a nap after scratching. The dual-sided product enables your cat to scratch in multiple positions, and the durable craftsmanship promises years of use.

This product is more expensive than the others listed. Some cats won’t use it. Some buyers reported the scratcher had a bad odor.

  • Stylish design
  • Non-toxic materials
  • Comfortable design
  • Some cats will ignore it
  • 4. Petstages Easy Life Scratch Cat Scratcher

petstages scratcher_Chewy

Fun, affordable, and fashionable, the Petstages Easy Life Scratch Cat Scratcher features a corrugated bowl for your cat to scratch and relax in comfort. With a unique and fun appearance , this cat scratcher makes a stylish statement in your home. The innovative scratching surface helps to trim nails and promote nail health, while the included catnip will attract and engage your pet. The natural materials in this product keep your kitty safe.

This product can suffer from damage after a few uses and be too small for some cats. The catnip can also fall through the cardboard and create a mess.

  • Natural materials
  • Promotes nail health
  • Bowl provides a place for your cat to nap
  • Catnip included
  • Damage after several uses
  • Too small for some cats
  • Catnips can fall through cardboard
  • 5. PetFusion Jumbo Cat Scratcher Lounge

petfusion jumbo scratcher_Chewy

A sleek and stylish product, the PetFusion Jumbo Cat Scratcher Lounge gives your pet a place to perch, scratch, and nap. The large size is perfect for almost all cats, and the superior cardboard construction can withstand tons of usage. This award-winning two-tiered scratcher allows your cats to play and interact. The 100% recycled materials are non-toxic to pets.

This product is on the pricier side, and the sharp edges can potentially cut pet owners or pets. 

  • Award-winning
  • 100% recycled materials
  • Two-tier design encourages play
  • Can leave cuts
  • 6. ScratchMe Cat Scratcher Post Lounge

scratchME scratcher_Amazon

The ScratchMe Cat Scratcher Post Lounge provides a safe, stylish, and serene place where your kitty can relax and scratch her claws. It can fit all cat sizes and breeds. The round shape of the cardboard scratcher also doubles as a bed . The product is made from 100% recycled and non-toxic materials. The five layers of corrugated paper make this scratcher super durable. 

This scratcher is more expensive than most. The catnip can be messy.

  • Fits every cat size and breed
  • Catnip might cause a mess
  • 7. PAWISE Cat Scratcher Reversible Pad Relaxing Lounge

PAWISE scratcher_Amazon

Extremely affordable and stylish, the PAWISE Cat Scratcher Reversible Pad Relaxing Lounge provides an answer to your cat-scratching needs. The scratcher comes in multiple sizes to comfortably accommodate most cats and the zig-zag pattern looks great in all homes. This product is made from non-toxic materials and is safe for your pet. The angled ramp enables your kitty to flex her body while preening her claws. This product is also reversible and promotes claw health.

The product can suffer from damage after the first use. 

  • Safe for pets
  • Multiple sizes
  • Can be damaged after one use
  • 8. PrimePets Cat Scratcher Cardboard Lounge

primepets scratcher_Amazon

The fashionable leopard-print PrimePets Cat Scratcher Cardboard Lounge is a great choice for the stylish cat parent. The small design is best suited for petite felines or kittens. The eco-friendly material is safe and non-toxic. This scratcher sofa can also be used as a bed and provides the perfect resting place for your kitty. Its affordable price accommodates all budgets. Catnip is included.

The smaller design doesn’t suit larger cats. Users reported that the product easily falls apart.

  • Sleek dual-purpose design
  • Meant for small cats
  • May fall apart easily
  • 9. BobbyPet Cat Scratcher Lounge

bobbypet scratcher_Amazon

The innovative BobbyPet Cat Scratcher Lounge is the ideal scratcher for bigger cats. It is made from 100% high-density honeycomb paper, making it light, portable, and perfect for travel. It’s durable enough to hold up to 25 pounds. The large surface area allows numerous cats to use it at once. Its oval shape encourages your kitty to curl up for a snooze, while the body-contouring bowl provides comfy support. Additionally, this scratcher is a breeze to clean.

Some people reported an odd smell coming from this scratcher. The product can also easily collapse when a cat is using it.

  • Great for large cats
  • Body-contouring
  • May smell bad
  • Can collapse while in use
  • 10. ScratchMe Cat Scratching Post Lounge

scratchME scratcher bed_Amazon

This affordable scratcher’s unique boat design makes it well-suited as both a scratcher and a cat bed. Made from high-quality material, the five layers of cardboard make the ScratchMe Cat Scratching Post Lounge durable and long-lasting. The included catnip will entice and attract kitties. It’s lightweight makes it great for travel. 

This scratcher can easily fall apart. Catnip can easily fall through the bottom and create a mess. The cardboard is tough to clean. The small design does not accommodate larger cats. Moreover, the cradle shape can easily rock and startle your pet.

  • Doubles as cat bed
  • Too small for certain cat breeds
  • Catnip can fall through the bottom
  • Is easily prone to damage 
  • Buyer’s Guide

For cat owners who want to protect their furniture and provide an outlet for their cat to scratch, a cat scratching post is definitely worth the investment. It not only saves your possessions from damage but promotes health and happiness.

  • Things to Consider When Shopping for a Cat Scratcher

While you’re on the prowl for the perfect cat scratcher, you should take the following items into consideration:

  • If your cat is on the larger side, you will need to get her a larger cat scratcher. A good scratcher should be larger than the cat using it to allow her to stretch and flex her back and legs. A good rule of thumb is to buy a horizontal cat scratcher that is 18 inches long or a vertical cat scratcher that is between 30 and 32 inches tall.
  • Most of the cat scratchers discussed in this review are made from cardboard. While many cats adore cardboard cat scratchers, the material can easily give way under their claws and be easily destroyed.
  • Cats love to scratch in vertical and horizontal positions Observe your kitty to see which angles she enjoys scratching at most. For instance, does she normally scratch at your furniture while on her hind legs or prefer scratching at the carpet in a horizontal position? Buy a cat scratcher that caters to her preferred scratching positions.
  • Cats can easily lose interest in worn-out cat scratchers. Regain her interest by dusting the scratcher with catnip or moving it to a different location in the house.
  • Avoid carpet cat scratchers. Always choose a cat scratcher made from a different material than the rest of your home. This helps your cat understand what she should be scratching and what materials to avoid.
  • What to Look for in a Good Cat Scratcher

In order to rest easy knowing you made a smart purchase, you should only buy high-quality cat scratchers. Good cat scratchers have the following characteristics:

  • High Durability and Good Construction : A good cat scratcher is made from high-quality materials and will stand the test of time, even under sharp cat claws.
  • Non-Toxic : Only buy cat scratchers that are made from non-toxic, pet-safe materials to keep your kitty protected.
  • Scratchable Area : Good cat scratchers have a large scratching surface area.
  • Size : Buy a cat scratcher that is large enough to comfortably accommodate the size of your cat.
  • Frequently Asked Questions About Cat Scratchers

  How big should my cat scratcher be?

You should buy a cat scratcher that is large enough to accommodate your pet’s reach. Horizontal cat scratchers should be at least 18 inches long. A vertical cat scratcher should stand between 30 and 32 inches tall so your cat can reach up and stretch her legs and back.

  • What cat scratcher should I buy for my cat?

Aim to purchase a cat scratcher that caters to your cat’s preferred scratching angle. Watch your pet to see how she likes to scratch. For instance, if your cat prefers to scratch at the carpeting, she probably would prefer a horizontal cat scratcher.

  • What are the best cat scratcher materials?

cat scratcher_Boonlert Saikrajang_Shutterstock

The best materials for a cat scratcher are non-toxic, natural, and safe for pets. Look for cardboard or sisal rope cat scratchers that don’t include any dye.

  • Will my cat like a cat scratcher?

Probably. Scratching comes naturally to all cats, and a cat scratcher will feel good under their claws.

  How do I get my cat to stop scratching my furniture?

To discourage your feline friend from her bad behavior, buy an enticing cat scratcher that she’ll love to use. You can also spray citrus scents onto your possessions to deter your cat from scratching them. Securely stick double-sided tape on your furniture edges, curtains, baseboards, and carpeting.  Your cat won’t like the sticky feeling and will leave your furniture alone. Additionally, as soon as you see your cat begin to scratch, spray a water bottle in your direction.

cat_PHOTOGRAPHY, Shutterstock

  • How many cat scratchers should my cat have?

If you only own one cat, one cat scratcher is fine. Buy multiple cat scratchers if you live in a multi-cat household. If your pet loses interest in the cat scratcher, try moving it to a different area of your home to encourage her to use it again.

  • The Benefits of a Cat Scratcher

Cat scratchers come with many benefits, including:

  • They Save Your Furniture : Buying a cat scratcher will dissuade your pet from scratching your furniture and destroying it. A cat scratcher gives her a great place to scratch her nails without being destructive.
  • It’s Good for Her Health : Cat scratchers help your kitty to remove the outer shell of her claws so the new claw and efficiently grow. It also allows her to stretch her muscles. Cat scratchers are also proven to relieve stress and anxiety in felines.
  • A Communal Area : Think of a cat scratcher like an office water cooler. It provides a place for your kitties to gather together and enjoy each other’s company.
  • Marking Their Territory : Cats mark their territory by rubbing along furniture and other household items. Buying a cat scratcher gives your kitty the opportunity to leave her scent all over something she can truly call her own.
  • Why Do Catch Scratch?

cat scratching_Xandra Luijks_Pixabay

In order to think buying a cat scratcher is a good idea, it’s important to understand your cat’s need to scratch. Cat scratching is a natural, innate behavior. It’s one of their most primal urges. Cats will scratch during their entire lifespan, from kittens all the way up to their golden years.

Cats scratch for a variety of reasons. It helps to sharpen their nails, reduce stress, stretch and work their muscles, and mark their territory. Cat scratchers accommodate your pet’s natural need to scratch and allow them to do it in a safe location.

Every cat scratches. Having a cat scratcher in your home will protect your furniture and promote health and happiness in your kitty. It’s critical to buy a high-quality cat scratcher that accommodates your cat’s preferred scratching method, is made from non-toxic materials, and is larger than your pet.

According to our in-depth cat scratcher reviews, we believe that the Hepper Hi-Lo Scratcher is the best overall cat scratcher. The three-level scratching area accommodates both horizontal and vertical scratchers. Durable, large, and made from pet-safe materials, this cat scratcher is a great pick for any pet parent.

The cat scratcher that is the best bang for your buck is the Catit Lounge Scratcher with Catnip. This affordable cat scratcher won’t break the bank, is stylish enough for any taste, and is large enough to fit almost any cat.

Featured Image Credit: Pixabay

  •  How big should my cat scratcher be?
  •  How do I get my cat to stop scratching my furniture?

About the Author

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Christian started writing for a local newspaper as a teenager, and he's been involved in the publishing industry for most of his adult life. Combining his love of writing with a passion for animals, he is currently the Director of Editorial at Pangolia and the Editor-in-Chief at Catster. Christian lives in the Philippines with his wife, son, and four rescue cats: Trixie, Chloe, Sparky, and Chopper.

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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!

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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!

when to visit moscow

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!

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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!

where to stay in moscow

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

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

moscow itinerary

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

moscow itinerary

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

moscow itinerary

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!

moscow itinerary

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 Red Square

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 Moscow Kremlin

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!

Lenins 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!

St. Basils Cathedral

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!

GUM Department Store

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.

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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!

Novodevichy Convent

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!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

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 State Tretyakov Gallery

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!

All Russian Exhibition Center

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!

Bolshoi Theater

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!

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!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

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.

The Alexander 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!

Ostankino Television Tower

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!

Izmaylovo District

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.

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

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 .

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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)

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

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

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

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage and 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

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!

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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!

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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

Alya and Campbell

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

7-day Moscow itinerary

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

things to do in Moscow in one week

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

travel itinerary for one week in Moscow

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

exploring Moscow

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

top things to do in Moscow

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

one week Moscow itinerary

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

things to do in Moscow in seven days

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

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Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

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MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

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Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

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I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

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Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

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Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

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Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

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Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

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Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

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DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

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Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

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The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

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Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

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Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

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Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

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Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

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  • Destinations

Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

Saint Basil's Cathedral in Moscow, Russia

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

Interior of the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscos

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

GUM, a popular department store in Moscow

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

Christ the Savior Cathedral in Moscow

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

Gates at Gorky Park in Moscow

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

River cruise in Moscow

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

Moscow Metro station

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

Moscow State University at dusk

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

Izmailovsky Market in Moscow, Russia

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

The skyscrapers of Moscow City

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

Art in the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

Tsaritsyno Museum Reserve, former residence of Catherine the Great

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

Kolomenskoye Museum-Reserve in Moscow

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

Ostankino TV Tower in Moscow at night

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

The floating bridge of Zaryadye Park in Moscow

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

The rooftops of Moscow, Russia

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

A pool at Sanduny Banya in Moscow

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

  • 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
  • Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
  • Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Image of Sarah Kingdom

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

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