travel money exchange bluewater

Insurance servicing

• Life insurance (opens in a new window)
• Home insurance (opens in a new window)
• Travel insurance (opens in a new window)
• Car insurance (opens in a new window)

Internet Banking

• Sign in to internet banking (opens in a new window)
• Register for internet banking (opens in a new window)

Collect travel money from your local Bureau de Change

Learn more about M&S Bank Bureaux and their opening hours with our Bureau finder

M&S Bureaux are located in 100 M&S stores nationwide

Visit your local M&S Bureau de Change to collect a wide range of currencies immediately. In addition, if your currency is not available, one of our colleagues will be able to order it for you.

Bureau finder

If you're looking for your local M&S Travel Money Bureau de Change, you can use the store finder to find your closest store and current opening hours.

Store opening hours can be found by visiting 'Find your nearest store'.

Collecting pre-ordered travel money

Did you know you can use our travel money Click & Collect service to place your travel money order, and you can collect it from a Bureau de Change or store convenient to you? Simply let our colleagues know you're there for a Click & Collect order and they will be able to help.

Find out more about live exchange rates >

Looking to buy or sell travel money?

If you are looking to buy travel money, simply visit our online travel money hub and place your order for collection from your local M&S Bureau de Change or store See footnote * * . We offer 9 currencies with our SameDay service , including euro and US dollar and more than 40 available to order.

We know that travel plans may change, or you may have travel money left over from your recent trip – we can help. Just visit one of our Bureaux to exchange your leftover currency into pounds. This includes any unused notes in currency that we sell See footnote ** ** .

Learn more about our foreign currency buy back service.

Have a question about travel money or other travel products?

Ask our Virtual Assistant

Planning a trip abroad?

Check out our holiday checklist and learn how the key to that perfect break is preparation!

Find out more

Planning a skiing trip?

Learn more about the best places to go skiing with our handy guide.

Will you need euros?

Find out which countries use the euro and learn more about the currency.

Are you travelling with cash?

Our guide explains how much money you can take abroad.

Planning on using your M&S Credit Card abroad?

We monitor your transactions to help keep your account safe, so you don't have to let us know if you're leaving the UK. Learn more about international spending with our credit card.

Learn more about spending abroad

* £150 minimum threshold for all orders placed through the Click & Collect service. For anything less, please visit an M&S Bureau de Change.

** Exclusions apply, see terms and conditions

Branch details

0.8 miles from your location

Contact Details

L043 Lower Thames Walk, Bluewater Shopping Centre, DA9 9SJ

Opening Times

At our Bluewater Branch

Specialists in:.

• Multi-destination holidays

Contact Bluewater

Your details.

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY

Please check brand websites for up-to-date opening hours

We're home to some incredible travel brands –  Hays Travel ,   Kuoni ,  TUI   and Virgin Holidays  – so you can shop the world and book your dream holiday at Bluewater.

For foreign currency,  John Lewis & Partners  and  M&S offer competitive rates.

Filter Shops

• Accessories
• Books & Stationery
• Childrenswear
• Food & Drink
• Gifts & Speciality
• Health & Beauty
• Jewellery & Watches
• Sportswear & Outdoor

Hays Travel

Virgin Holidays

• South East England
• Currency Exchange

Currency Exchange in Bluewater

Related results.

Discover every bank branch and currency exchange location in the UK.

You are here: Home / Blog / TUI Travel Money: Rates and Locations

TUI Travel Money: Rates and Locations

If you’re planning a trip abroad, you’ll need to think about the most convenient way to arrange your travel money.

This might mean exchanging currency before you leave, taking cash to exchange upon arrival, using a prepaid travel card, or relying on your credit or debit card, for example. You can also use a service like Wise and the free online Wise account . You’ll be able to hold and manage dozens of different currencies, access the mid-market exchange rate, and spend using your linked debit card all over the world.

Doing some research before you choose a provider - or providers - for your travel money will mean you can get the very best available deal for your holiday money. This guide covers all you need to know about travel money from TUI - as well as taking a look at Wise (formerly TransferWise) as a smart alternative.

TUI travel money services

TUI is famous as a travel agent offering holidays, cruises, hotel bookings and flights. You can also get all the extras you might need to make your trip comfortable and convenient - including your travel money.

The full range of travel money services includes in store exchange, click and collect foreign currency, travel money for home delivery, and a prepaid multi-currency card. The easiest way to check options and availability for your specific currency is to look online . Select the currency you need to see the options for collection and delivery - bearing in mind some services may be disrupted due to pandemic restrictions.

TUI Store collection

TUI offers travel money services in store, including currency exchange and click and collect travel money.

At the time of research many TUI stores have been forced to close due to restrictions and local lockdowns in place to combat the global pandemic. This may mean the in store and click and collect service is not available at a location convenient to you. However, some units are still operating, and the situation will change as restrictions evolve. You’ll be able to find a full list of all TUI travel money locations online - but do check out the most up to date information about store openings before you travel .

Here are some of TUI’s major London stores which are open at the time of writing:

*Store information and opening accurate at the time of writing - 14th December 2020

Home delivery

If you order travel money from TUI for home delivery, it’ll arrive the next working day as long as you submit your request before 2pm. It’s good to know that you’ll need to be home to sign for the delivery, and the delivery address used must be the same as the address your payment card is registered to.

TUI travel money card

As well as foreign currency in cash, TUI offers a travel money card which can be used for 13 different currencies. Apply online or in store for, and you’ll receive 2 separate cards linked to the same account. Top up your account and then switch to the currency you need online or using the app. You can then spend your travel money anywhere the Mastercard symbol is displayed.

It’s good to know that there are some fees and limits related to the TUI travel money card. It’s also well worth looking at the exchange rate that is offered to buy travel money or switch your sterling balance to the currency you need. Although it’s usually free to spend currencies you own, that doesn’t mean you won’t pay a fee wrapped up in the exchange rate on offer.

You’ll also pay an ATM withdrawal fee which is set by currency, a 2% fee for GBP top-ups, a 3% charge if you spend in an unsupported currency, and a dormancy fee if you don’t use the card regularly enough. Check out the full travel money card terms and conditions to make sure you don’t run into any surprise costs.

Save with Wise when you spend in any currency

Wise offers a smart alternative way to spend when you’re abroad, thanks to the Wise account .

The Wise account is free to open online, and comes with a linked Mastercard debit card . It’s free to top up your account in pounds - and you’ll also be able to receive money to your account in euros, US, Singapore, Australian and New Zealand dollars, Romanian leu and Hungarian forint. Once you have money in your account, you can switch it to the currency you need using the mid-market exchange rate with no markup. You’ll only ever pay a small transparent conversion cost - which works out 8x cheaper than using your bank.

It’s free to spend any currency you hold using your linked Mastercard, and ATM withdrawals are free to the currency value of £200 a month, too. Take a look at the Wise account today for a cheaper and more convenient way to manage your travel money.

TUI travel money rates and fees

You’ll be able to see the exchange rate used by TUI when you order, click and collect or home delivery travel money - or when you call into a TUI location for currency exchange.

It helps to know that currency services often add a markup or margin to the exchange rate they use for travel money. This is especially likely when the service advertises commission free exchange. Instead of an upfront fee, providers may add a markup to the exchange rates to protect their profits. Check the exchange rate against the mid-market exchange rate for your currency pair before you complete your purchase, to make sure you’re getting a good deal.

Not all travel money services add a markup to the exchange rate on offer for customers. Wise , for example, uses the mid-market exchange rate and a clear, low fee which keeps down costs and makes it far easier to see the real cost of your travel money.

Return to the blog .

ON THE PALAU SIREN!

Search form

• Best Scuba Diving In The World
• Best Diving in Asia
• Best Diving in Africa
• South Africa
• Zanzibar, Tanzania & Kenya
• African Land Safaris
• Tanzania Land Safari
• Australia Best Diving
• Great Barrier Reef
• Caribbean Best Diving
• British Virgin Islands
• Cayman Islands
• Dominican Republic
• Jardines de la Reina
• Roatan, Utila & Guanaja
• Saba, St Kitts & St Eustatius
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• Tiger Beach
• Trinidad & Tobago
• Turks and Caicos
• Best Diving in Costa Rica
• Cocos Island
• French Polynesia Best Diving
• Galapagos Islands
• Andaman Islands
• Indonesia - Top 10 Areas
• Cenderawasih Bay
• Derawan Islands
• Lembeh Strait
• Manado and Bunaken
• Raja Ampat Area
• Wakatobi National Park
• Best Scuba Diving in Mexico - Top 9
• Baja California
• Cabo San Lucas
• Guadalupe Island
• Isla Mujeres
• San Ignacio Gray Whales
• Sea of Cortez
• Socorro Islands
• Micronesia Dive Guide
• Bikini Atoll
• Truk Lagoon
• Saudi Arabia
• Southeast Asia - Top Areas
• Philippines - Top Areas
• Cebu and Bohol
• Malapascua Island
• Puerto Galera
• Papua New Guinea
• Solomon Islands
• Thailand Best Diving
• Similan Islands
• Best Diving in the USA
• Best Scuba Diving in Hawaii
• Catalina Island
• Southern California
• All 110 Destinations
• Best Liveaboard Destinations
• All Liveaboard Destinations
• Bahamas Liveaboards
• Belize Liveaboards
• Caribbean Liveaboards
• Cocos Island Liveaboards
• Galapagos Liveaboards
• Great Barrier Reef Liveaboards
• Indonesia Liveaboards
• Komodo Liveaboards
• Maldives Liveaboards
• Norway Liveaboards
• Palau Liveaboards
• Philippines Liveaboards
• Raja Ampat Liveaboards
• Red Sea Liveaboards
• Sea of Cortez Liveaboards
• Similan Island Liveaboards
• Socorro Liveaboards
• Tubbataha Liveaboards
• Turks & Caicos Liveaboards
• 170+ Liveaboards Worldwide
• Bali Dive Resorts
• Belize Dive Resorts
• Bonaire Dive Resorts
• Caribbean Dive Resorts
• Cayman Islands Dive Resorts
• Cozumel Dive Resorts
• Fiji Dive Resorts
• French Polynesia Dive Resorts
• Indonesia Dive Resorts
• Maldives Dive Resorts
• Mexico Dive Resorts
• Palau Dive Resorts
• Philippines Dive Resorts
• Raja Ampat Dive Resorts
• Roatan, Utila, & Guanaja Dive Resorts
• Sipadan Dive Resorts
• 200+ Dive Resorts Worldwide
• All Guided Group Trips
• swim with whales
• Off the beaten track
• African Safari Trips
• Bluewater Travel's 50 Amazing Adventures
• Secret Sale
• All Dive Travel Specials
• Best Of Articles
• All Articles
• Top 10 Lists
• Top Luxury Liveaboards
• Top Rated Liveaboards
• Travel Search
• Travel Insurance
• Terms of Service
• Leave a review
• Learn Underwater Photography
• Buy Underwater Camera Gear
• Get Scuba Certified

[email protected] | 310-915-6677

LET US BOOK YOUR DREAM VACATION

Expert travel planning, by divers for divers

or call us at 310-915-6677

to speak to a dive travel expert

Where do you want to go?

ABOUT BLUEWATER DIVE TRAVEL

Our specialty is arranging personalized dive or safari vacations, where you travel independently with family, friends or solo. Advantages of booking through Bluewater include never paying more than going direct, a dedicated travel concierge, and our low-price guarantee. Contact one of our expert travel advisors today to get started on your dream vacation.         Our Team Photo ---->

You will never pay more using Bluewater Travel.

RECENT NEWS

Bluewater Travel's 50 Amazing Adventures

Unforgettable Tanzania Wildlife Encounters

Cabo Marine Life Safari

How to Book Domestic Flights in Indonesia

Latest specials.

Blackbird Caye Resort Long Beach Scuba Show Special

Galapagos Aggressor III Early Bird Special: Save $1500

Cocos Island Aggressor Summer Special: Get $800 Off

Palau Aggressor II Special: Save $1500

Be the first to get news and specials.

Sign up for the mailing list today

310-915-6677 [email protected]

• OUR DIVE TRAVEL EXPERTS
• TERMS OF SERVICE

• Partnership Card
• Home Insurance
• Car Insurance
• Investments
• International Payments

John Lewis Finance

• Partnership Credit Card
• Points calculator
• Mobile payments & app
• Online account
• Fraud & security
• Cardholder exclusives
• Guides & articles

Customer support

• Contents Insurance
• Buildings Insurance
• High-Value Home Insurance
• Get a quote
• Show your saved quote
• Renew your policy
• Make a claim
• Policy documents
• Older drivers
• Retrieve a quote
• Things to consider
• How to register
• Pet Insurance
• Dog Insurance
• Cat Insurance

Travel Money

Bureau de Change

Click & Collect

• Travel Money Delivered
• Pre-packed Currency

Currency Buy Back

• Currency exchange rate table
• Stocks & Shares ISA
• General Investment Account
• ISA allowance 2024/25
• ISA transfers guide
• Regular transfers
• One-off payments

Explore our currencies

We’ll make it quick and easy for you to buy Euros, so you can focus on packing for your European adventure.

We can help tick off that one thing on your USA to-do list when you order US Dollars online from us.

Get ready for your adventure to the Outback and buy Australian Dollars online or in-store.

If you’re planning on holidaying to the land of smiles, you can buy Thai Baht online from us.

Off to Dubai or Abu Dhabi? Here’s how you can buy UAE dirham for your upcoming trip to the UAE.

Turkish Lira

Before you head off to Turkey, buy Turkish lira from us online and in select John Lewis Bureau de Change.

Canadian Dollars

Tick off another item on your travel to-dos and buy Canadian dollars online or in-store before your getaway.

Swiss Francs

Setting off for Switzerland? Buy Swiss francs from us online or in select John Lewis Bureau de Change.  

Mexican Pesos

If you’re planning to travel to Mexico for a holiday, you can order Mexico pesos online.

Barbados Dollars

Buy Barbadian dollars online today, so you can have cash ready before you need to pack your swimsuit.

Czech Koruna

The Czech Republic boasts a unique culture that deserves to be explored by its visitors.

Singapore Dollars

Exchanging Singapore dollars online is a convenient way to make sure you have your travel money ready.

South African Rand

Setting off for South Africa? Buy South African rand from us online or in select John Lewis Bureau de Change.

Danish Krone

We make it quick and easy for you to buy Danish krone so you can make the most out of your trip.

Travel guides

Spending money in Turkey

We break down the local costs and how best to spend your Turkish lira when visiting the country.

John Lewis Finance and John Lewis & Partners Bureau de Change are both trading names of John Lewis plc. Registered office: 171 Victoria Street, London SW1E 5NN. Registered in England (Registered Company Number 233462). John Lewis plc introduce the panel of carefully chosen providers in Bureau de Change products and services, whom each hold the appropriate licences with the Financial Conduct Authority and HMRC.

Foreign Currency online from both John Lewis Finance and John Lewis & Partners is provided by First Rate Exchange Services Limited registration number 04287490 (Money Service Business licence number MLR-64068), whose registered office is at Great West House, Great West Road, Brentford, West London, TW8 9DF England.

For UK clients: International Payments at John Lewis Finance is provided by HiFX Europe Limited. HiFX is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Payment Services Regulations 2017, registration 462444, for the provision of payment services. HiFX is a limited company registered in England and Wales. Registered number: 3517451. Registered office: Maxis 1, Western Road, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 1RT.

For EEA clients: International Payments at John Lewis Finance is provided by XE Europe B.V.. XE Europe B.V. is authorised by the Dutch Central Bank (De Nederlandsche Bank) under the Payment Services Directive II, licence number R149006 for the provision of payment services. XE Europe B.V. is a limited company registered in The Netherlands with company no. 72587873, and registered office at Rozengracht 12,1, 1016NB Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

Home Delivery

Terms and conditions

More from John Lewis

• John Lewis for Business
• John Lewis & Partners
• Waitrose & Partners
• About John Lewis Finance
• Accessibility
• Website feedback
• Meet the experts

Currency Experts

G - TMOZ - C&D Pizza Blog - Desktop Banner CTA (1).png

Why Travel Money

• United Arab Emirates
• Switzerland
• The Netherlands
• Puerto Rico
• United States
• New Zealand
• ➨ Choose from World Map
• Budget Travel
• Family Travel
• Getting Around
• Visas & Passports
• Work with Us

Browsing Category

• Czech Republic
• Saint Martin
• Uncategorized

Moscow Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + More [2023]

· everything to know about visiting moscow, including the best things to do and how to get around. ·.

Moscow is Russia’s vibrant capital city, and it also happens to be the largest city in all of Europe. The city’s long and infamous history makes it one of the most unique places we have ever visited.

The architecture ranges from centuries-old palaces to uniform, gray concrete buildings. The people range from cold and private to warm and welcoming. Moscow is a city is strong juxtapositions, and we learned a lot during our time there.

This post will break down all you need to know about visiting Moscow, including the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more.

The Best Things to Do in Moscow

1. explore the red square.

The Red Square is the heart of Moscow. Most of the city’s top attractions can be found here, including just about everything on this list. The Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin’s Mausoleum are all located here, and the State Historical Museum and GUM are not far from here, either.

The Red Square is a common home for parades, protests, and seasonal celebrations. There are massive Christmas celebrations here, with food vendors and carnival rides set up in numbers.

2. Check Out the Ziferblat

The Ziferblat is a café in Moscow that is unlike any café we have ever been to. While most cafes charge you for your drinks and food, the Ziferblat charges you for your time.

Upon arrival, you are given a clock. When you leave, the barista calculates how much time you spent in the café and charges you accordingly. This concept was created to help visitors to be more intentional with their time, and the cafe itself is incredibly charming.

For a detailed look at everything you need to know before you visit, make sure you read my post about visiting the Ziferblat Cafe in Moscow .

3. Marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral

St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil’s Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style. The church is of the Russian Orthodox faith, and the inside is just as wondrous as the outside.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is located on the edge of the Red Square, making it incredibly convenient to visit. Entrance for non-worshippers costs 800 rubles, and tickets can be bought at the church

4. Explore the Kremlin

The Kremlin is the largest active fortress in Europe, and it is the site of most of Russia’s government affairs. In addition to government buildings, the Kremlin Complex is filled with courtyards, towers, and museums that are open to the public. If you have the time, you could spend a couple of days fully exploring all that there is to see in the Kremlin.

5. Walk Through Lenin’s Mausoleum

Vladimir Lenin is one of the most important figures in Russian history, and his body is located perfectly embalmed in a mausoleum in the Red Square. The Mausoleum is open to the public to visit, and as long as you are willing to go through a few security checks, it is easily one of the best things to do in Moscow. Its convenient location in the Red Square makes it a can’t miss attraction.

There is absolutely no photography allowed inside the Mausoleum. Do not test this rule.

6. Wander Along Arbat Street

The Arbat is a very popular street in Moscow that is lined with stores, cafes, and other touristy attractions. It is one of the oldest streets in the city, dating back to the 1400s. This street is both quaint and trendy, and there are many walking tours that introduce tourists to the neighborhood’s wonders and highlights.

7. Catch a Show at the Bolshoi Theatre

As a lover of the arts, it is hard to think of Moscow and not think of ballet. Russia has always been a top dog in the world of fine arts, and Bolshoi Theater is one of the best places to catch a performance. We were lucky enough to attend an Opera here, and it is a venue that you don’t want to miss out on if you enjoy opera, ballet, or orchestral performances.

8. Visit the State Historical Museum

The State Historical Museum is one of the most respected museums in Moscow. Despite its name, it is not really focused on the history of Russia as a nation. Rather, it contains a collection of artifacts from all throughout Russia’s history.

The museum’s collection is very broad in nature. It houses some items from indigenous tribes that used to occupy the region, pieces collected by the Romanov family, and more.

9. Wander Around GUM

GUM is an absolutely massive mall within walking distance of the Red Square. It isn’t just the size that draws visitors here; it’s the sense of luxury. The mall is so beautiful inside, much like the metro stations.

While visiting a mall might not sound like it belongs on a bucket list, this mall does. You will not want to miss out on visiting GUM while in Moscow.

10. Admire the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

While St. Basil’s Cathedral is the most iconic church in Moscow, it isn’t the only one. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is absolutely stunning, with massive golden domes. It is the tallest Orthodox church in the world, and it is the seat of the Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow.

It is located just about a mile from the Red Square, just south of the Kremlin Complex. You can walk to it from the Red Square in about 20 minutes.

How to Get to Moscow

Flying to moscow.

Moscow has three major international airports: Sheremetyevo (SVO) , Domodedovo (DMO) , and Vnukovo (VKO) . All three of them are directly connected to downtown Moscow by the Aeroexpress trains, which leave every 30 minutes throughout the day. By Aeroexpress train, you can expect to get to the city center in 25-45 minutes depending on the airport that you fly into.

Sheremetyevo is the biggest and busiest of the three airports, and it is the one you are most likely to fly into – especially if you are coming from outside of Europe or the Caucus region. We flew into Sheremetyevo on a direct flight from New York City.

I usually provide backup airport options, because flying right into the city isn’t always the cheapest way to get where you’re going. Unfortunately, when it comes to Moscow, don’t really have a choice other than to fly right into Moscow. It is a very remote city, and it is usually the cheapest place to fly into in Russia as a whole.

Since Sheremetyevo is so busy, you will probably find a great flight option anyway. I wrote in  my post about finding cheap flights  that using hub airports will lead to more affordable airfare, and the same logic applies here. Even though Russia’s national airline, Aeroflot, is no longer a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, Moscow is still a major hub connecting passengers from all over the world.

READ OUR CHEAT SHEET

Train or Bus to Moscow

Trains and buses are one of the most popular ways to get around Europe. However, they’re of very little use when you’re trying to get to Moscow.

Moscow is hundreds of miles from the nearest major cities. The only major European city that can even be reached within 8 hours on the ground is St. Petersburg, and even the Baltic capitals of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn are over 12 hours away.

If you want to get to Moscow, the best option is almost always to fly. While the train routes to Moscow are scenic, they simply take forever.

How to Get Around Moscow

METRO | TROLLEYS | TRAMS | BUSES

Moscow has one of the most memorable metro systems in the world. Its metro lines are very deep underground, and the stations are absolutely stunning. Each station has its own unique style, but all of them contain escalators that seem to go on forever.

The system was built in an effort to showcase the power of the Soviet Union and its bright future. The plans were a form of propaganda, but they resulted in what is still one of the most visually appealing subway systems on earth.

Moscow’s metro system isn’t just pretty. It is also very useful and accessible. The system has 17 lines that connect the city and its surrounding area.

But wait; there’s more!

The Moscow metro system is also incredibly affordable, with each ride costing less than a dollar. The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow, as it is almost impossible to beat the connection times and the low cost to ride.

Tickets can be bought at electronic, English-speaking kiosks in stations, or directly from ticket counters at certain larger stations. There are also day passes available, which are a very solid option if you plan on riding the metro several times per day.

The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow.

In addition to the metro system, Moscow also has a network of buses, trams, and trolleys. This system is nowhere near as convenient or well-connected as the metro, though, and is likely of little use to you during your trip. There is no Uber in Moscow, but a similar app named Yandex is available if you need a ride in a pinch.

How Many Days Do You Need in Moscow?

Moscow is the biggest city in all of Europe, and it is absolutely loaded with things to do. You could spend weeks in Moscow and still find new things to do. Of course, most travelers don’t have that kind of time to spend in one place!

I recommend spending no less than three full days in Moscow, and ideally closer to five or seven.

Moscow is very spread out, and it can take some time to get from one major point to another. There are also so many places that are nice to just sit back and relax, which is hard to do when you’re in a hurry trying to cram activities into just a few days.

If you only have a week to visit Russia, I’d advise spending all of the time in one city. If you decide to split your time between Moscow and St. Petersburg, I recommend not trying to squeeze in any day trips beyond those two cities.

When Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Moscow?

There are two different ways to approach this question. Personally, I think the best time to visit Moscow is around Christmas and New Year’s Day. While the weather will be absolutely freezing, Moscow is a surreal winter wonderland in December and January.

We were in Moscow right before Christmas. While it was very cold, you can always bundle up. Exploring the Christmas markets and pop-up ice skating rinks throughout Moscow is one of my favorite memories from anywhere I’ve traveled, and I dream of going back to do it again.

If you aren’t fond of the cold, Moscow is beautiful in the summer. It tends to get pretty cold in the shoulder seasons, so if you want warm weather, you should plan to visit in the summer. Moscow actually gets pretty warm in July and August, and there are a bunch of fantastic places to soak up the sun within the city.

The best time to visit Moscow is either around Christmas or from late May to August.

Is Moscow Safe to Visit?

While Moscow is a truly wonderful city, there’s no denying that visiting Russia comes with risks. As the country is run by an infamous communist dictator, concerns about visiting are valid. While we didn’t experience any sort of threat or negative treatment during our time in Moscow, we visited in a peaceful time.

In our experience, Russia doesn’t seem to detain normal Americans or Westerners to use as pawns. As a regular person, as long as you don’t commit any crimes, there is a slim chance you will run into any issues. However, Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

To make matters worse, Russia has a bad reputation for gang violence. While the Russian mafia has very little interest in normal Western tourists, they won’t hesitate to pick a fight with anyone who ventures into their sphere of influence. If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

Finally, since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, things are all very different. Russia is currently at war, and there are battles raging within 8 hours of Moscow. While it is still relatively safe to visit, that could change at any time as the war with Ukraine continues.

Is Moscow Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, Moscow is worth visiting. It is one of the most unique major cities we have ever visited, and we hope to make it back one day. The Russian Orthodox churches are stunning, the city’s history is unlike any other, and the food is to die for.

While many visitors prefer St. Petersburg to Moscow, I think Moscow deserves a lot of hype of its own. Moscow is the beating heart of Russian culture and history, and it’s a place I highly recommend checking out if you have the chance.

That’s all we have for you about Moscow! I hope this post was helpful as you plan your trip to Russia’s capital.

Have you been to Moscow? Or is this your first time visiting? Comment below if you have anything to add to our travel guide!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

Leave a comment

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

Meet The Author - Greg

Recent Post

How Much Does a Trip to Egypt Cost: Budget Breakdown

March 10, 2024

Best Time to Visit the India Gate in Delhi [2024]

March 1, 2024

Flying with a Sinus Infection: Tips to Avoid Pain

February 20, 2024

11 Best Things to Do in Breckenridge Besides Skiing

February 12, 2024

10 Best Beaches in Mexico for Families (We Lived Here)

February 3, 2024

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser .

Moscow Travel Guide

• Guide to Russia
• Russian Destination Guide

Why travel to Moscow

Contrasts: 12th century monasteries and some of the tallest skyscrapers in Europe can be found side-by-side in this complex and captivating city. The diversity of this mega-city is astounding. Only a few steps away from the solemn red facade of the Kremlin and the sounds of righteous church bells, a buzzing night scene and alternative-fashion boutiques can be found.

Culture: In Moscow only the best goes. Be it a theatre, restaurant or gallery, the standards are certain to be world-class. The Bolshoi ballet company is reputed to be even better than the Mariinsky’s and “MMOMA” (Moscow’s museum of modern art) exhibits works of art as profound as any that could be found in the famed MOMA.

Convenience: Unlike the rest of Russia, it’s easy enough to get by with just English in Moscow and, driving excepted, it is surprisingly safe: the murder rate is lower than in some of America’s major cities.

Top Sights in Moscow

St. Basil’s

Novodevichy Convent

MORE SIGHTS

• Moscow Fact File
• History of Moscow Russia
• Arriving in Moscow
• Getting Around
• Moscow Museums
• Nightlife in Moscow
• Moscow Restaurants
• Moscow Entertainment
• Activities in Moscow
• Outside Moscow

FEATURED MOSCOW TOURS

See tours which enjoy highest popularity with our customers

CLASSIC MOSCOW

A WEEK IN MOSCOW

WEEKEND IN MOSCOW

View all tours

Why visit Moscow

It would take more than two days to walk around the perimeter of the biggest city in Europe, Moscow. Many of its inhabitants barely know what’s beyond the few blocks around their flat and there are so many attractions that it’s almost impossible to know where to start. If there is such a thing as an antidote to boredom, Moscow City is it. The mind-boggling range and diversity of things to do, places to eat, parks, historical monuments and more means that a vacation in Moscow has a wealth of activities to offer for every type of traveler, from young families to retirees.

Reasons to Vacation in Moscow in 2022

The Bolshoi theatre is familiar to almost everyone as Russia’s grandest theatre, but what people don’t know is that there are many more bolshoi (big) sites in Moscow that are worth travelling all the way to Moscow to see. For more than 100 years, the world’s biggest bell has been hidden behind the Kremlin’s walls and inside Moscow’s main park (which is bigger than some countries!) there is the world’s largest outdoor ice-rink. Travelers that visit Moscow can stay at the Izmailovo, Europe’s biggest hotel, then eat at the largest and most historic McDonald’s in Europe and after that have fun at the largest European indoor theme park!

Ancient Past & Stunning Architecture:

As those who travel to Moscow will see, just because Moscow is a city of record-breaking, glitzy high-rises doesn’t mean that there is no history. On the famous Arbat street, time-worn, wooden storehouses and century-old churches are squashed up against grey, soviet blocks which are then towered over by 21st century office-blocks. Unlike its much younger sibling, St Petersburg, Moscow’s roots stretch way back to the 12th century. Within the walls of the Kremlin, the city’s oldest building the Cathedral of Assumption can be admired in all its 500+ years of age.

Culture & Convenience

For a foreigner who has never visited Russia, Moscow is the perfect stepping stone into this great land of mystery. From the country’s best classical ballet troupes to snow-white troikas trotting through the parks, all the highlights of Russian culture can be had in Moscow without any of the complications that would be expected in other, less developed regions of Russia.

Cheap as Caviar

In Moscow, everything is bargain when with the current foreign exchange rates being what they are. Even caviar doesn’t seem so dear when the exchange rate is at 60rub to the dollar, so go on indulge yourself! Take your 2022 vacation in Moscow and have the best of both worlds, with European luxury at very affordable prices.

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

We had a great time both in Moscow and St Petersburg. Your travel agency was excellent in coordinating the whole trip. Everything worked like clockwork. The guides assigned to us were very nice and friendly. They had a great knowledge of their subjects. The cars and the drivers were great. The hotels were good and the itinerary was good. All in all, it was a wonderful experience. It was nice dealing with you and your company. Thank you very much for a great Russian experience. Have a great future ahead

• 31 reviews of Express to Russia Moscow Tours in Moscow

Our travel brands include

Express to Russia

Join us on Facebook

We invite you to become a fan of our company on Facebook and read Russian news and travel stories. To become a fan, click here .

Join our own Russian Travel, Culture and Literature Club on Facebook. The club was created to be a place for everyone with an interest in Russia to get to know each other and share experiences, stories, pictures and advice. To join our club, please follow this link .

We use cookies to improve your experience on our Website, and to facilitate providing you with services available through our Website. To opt out of non-essential cookies, please click here . By continuing to use our Website, you accept our use of cookies, the terms of our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service . I agree