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The 5 Main Types of Breakdown Cover Explained

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Breakdown cover can seem like a bit of a riddle at times, but it doesn’t have to be a mystery. By understanding the different types of breakdown cover and how they relate to your needs, you’ll be perfectly placed to select the most suitable policy. Better awareness of your options can help you to save money and enjoy the right level of protection at the same time.

» MORE:  What is breakdown cover?

There are five main types of breakdown cover, which we will explain in more detail below:

Roadside Assistance Breakdown Cover

National recovery breakdown cover, home start breakdown cover, onward travel breakdown cover, european breakdown cover, compare breakdown cover.

Use our comparison table to find breakdown cover from leading providers

Roadside Assistance is the most basic form of breakdown cover; indeed, providers often refer to it as a basic policy.

As it sounds, Roadside Assistance cover will provide help to drivers by the side of the road should they break down. Assistance will typically come in the form of an engineer who will attempt to repair your car at the scene. If repairs aren’t possible, your car will be towed to a nearby garage chosen by your breakdown provider (within a certain radius of the incident), where you can arrange to collect it as soon as it’s fixed. The cost of any replacement parts the engineer may use, or any repairs that need to be made at the garage, will not usually be covered under this breakdown policy.

Furthermore, standard Roadside Assistance may not cover you if you break down at home or close to home (often within approximately ¼ of a mile). You may be able to request assistance but only for an additional fee.

Do I need Roadside Assistance?

For drivers who regularly traverse the highways and byways of the United Kingdom, National Recovery is a useful breakdown service. As with Roadside Assistance, if you breakdown anywhere in the UK, an engineer will come to your aid and attempt a roadside repair on your vehicle.

However, rather than being limited to being taken to a nearby garage if your car can’t be fixed by the road, National Recovery breakdown cover enables you and your car to be taken to any destination in the UK for repair.

This means you can get taken to a garage and location of your choice, whether it’s your home or any other destination, which could help to minimise the disruption to your travel plans.

Do I need National Recovery?

Your car is as likely to fail to start at home as it is to breakdown on the road, especially on cold, wet and icy winter mornings. This is because the likelihood of experiencing car battery problems or other difficulties increases when it has been sitting in the driveway all night. This problem only gets worse as your car gets older and racks up more miles.

Home Start (also called at-home) cover means, should you break down at home, or within a specified distance of your home (distance cap varies by policy), your provider will send an engineer to attempt to kick start your vehicle. If it is not possible to restart your car, most Home Start policies will include a tow service to a garage local to your address.

You can choose to add Home Start as an optional extra to most basic policies, as many Roadside Assistance or National Recovery policies won’t cover breakdowns within a certain distance of your home as standard.

Do I need Home Start?

If you’re stranded with a broken-down car far from your destination, Onward Travel cover will help you to continue on your journey. Each policy differs, but there are some key similarities between providers.

Typically, if your car needs repairing at a garage and you still need to complete your journey, an alternative means of travel or transportation will be made available, either through a hire car or by covering the costs of public transport. Some policies will also cover overnight accommodation costs, up to a certain amount.

Do I need Onward Travel?

This is the only form of breakdown cover tailored to European travel. Whether you travel to the continent regularly for business or you’re simply there on holiday, you’ll need breakdown cover to get you back up and running in case of a breakdown or emergency.

European cover is flexible, and you can typically tweak it to match your circumstances. If you travel infrequently, say once or twice a year, a single trip policy may be suitable. If, however, you regularly go to Europe, you might consider taking out an annual policy.

European policies will often include hotel accommodation or a hire car provision, which is crucial when breakdowns occur away from, or en route to, your destination. Some breakdown providers can also help with any language barriers by giving you access to an English-speaking helpline and, if needed, may help you and your vehicle get back to the UK if you are experiencing problems.

Do I need European Recovery?

>> MORE: Do I need breakdown cover?

Cover for yourself or your vehicle?

In addition to the above levels of breakdown cover, you can also choose between personal and vehicle breakdown cover.

As the names suggest, personal breakdown cover will cover the individual, whatever car they are in, while vehicle breakdown cover will only cover one specific vehicle. Most providers will also allow you to get cover for multiple people or vehicles under one policy.

>> MORE: Guide to personal and vehicle breakdown cover

Breakdown cover optional extras

With most providers you will be able to supplement your breakdown cover with some additional policies. Each provider may call them by slightly different names, but some common optional extras include:

Key replacement

If your keys are stolen, damaged or simply lost, this cover can help you to replace them. Details will vary between providers, but some may offer you the use of a hire car while you wait for the issue to be fixed. Some car insurance policies also offer this cover as an optional extra.

Tyre replacement

Tyre damage may not always be covered under a standard breakdown cover policy, but this extra cover can help with the repair or replacement of a tyre should you get a puncture or a flat.

Misfuel cover

This will cover you if you mistakenly fill up your car with the wrong fuel. It can cover the costs of towing, draining the tank, and other work needed to get you back on the road. Some car insurance policies offer this as an optional add-on too.

Battery replacement

If your battery goes flat or has a fault, this policy covers the costs of fitting a new battery to your car. Terms and exclusions will vary between providers.

Parts and labour

This policy can help to cover the cost of replacement parts and any garage work that is not covered under most standard breakdown policies. However, there will usually be a cap on how much you can claim at one time.

What to remember when choosing a breakdown policy

With such a range of breakdown policy bundles available, each containing a different combination of cover options, it’s important to work out which cover is necessary, and which cover you may not require. Evaluate your needs carefully, while also factoring in both the short term and long-term financial implications of each policy.

About the Author

Rhiannon has been writing about personal finance for over three years, specialising in energy, motoring, credit cards and lending. After graduating from the University of Cambridge with a degree in…

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Admiral breakdown cover review

Find out about the 3 options for admiral breakdown cover, including admiral's pros and cons..

In this guide

What types of policies are on offer?

Cover limits, claims process, managing your policy online, admiral breakdown cover customer reviews, pros and cons, our verdict, frequently asked questions.

Breakdown cover types

We compare the following providers

Breakdown cover

Admiral offers breakdown cover as an add-on to its motor insurance policies – you can’t get breakdown as a standalone policy. We’ve looked at the benefits of Admiral breakdown cover and which policy options are available.

Admiral offers 3 types of breakdown cover policies:

• Roadside assistance cover. With this policy, recovery is limited to 10 miles from your breakdown.
• National cover. With this policy, recovery is available to any UK destination. Home breakdown call-outs (less than a quarter-mile from your home) are included.
• European cover. With this policy, recovery is available throughout most of Europe.

You’ll be covered for the call-out charges and the costs of repairing your car. If necessary, you’ll be provided with a hire car or overnight accommodation so you can complete your journey.

Caravan, trailers and broken keys are also covered.

If you need assistance from the breakdown team, call 0330 102 0804 (cars) or 0330 102 0808 (vans) .

You’ll need your insurance policy number, your car registration number, your location and your phone number.

You can manage your Admiral account by clicking the “My Account” button at the top of the Admiral website.

In our 2024 customer satisfaction survey , Admiral came in hot on the heels of our winner Start Rescue , with a massive 93% of customers we spoke to saying they would recommend the brand to a friend – feedback that earned Admiral our highly commended award.

One customer commented: “Their services are clear and apparent. Wait times are low.” While another spoke to the brands “good service and communication”. Another reflected that Admiral was “expensive, but worth it”.

On the reviews platform Trustpilot, Admiral has a score of 4.4 out of 5. With reviewers praising the brand’s excellent customer service and competitive prices.

• You’re covered for unlimited call-outs
• 24-hour helpline
• Alternative transport and overnight accommodation is available
• European cover is available
• Only available to Admiral car insurance customers
• When adding breakdown cover to an existing policy, you have to wait 48 hours for the policy to start

If you have already decided that Admiral motor insurance is the best option for you, its breakdown cover is also likely to be suitable.

Get started by visiting Admiral’s website and sign up for a policy. If you have read this review and decided that Admiral breakdown cover is not for you, you can also compare other breakdown cover policies on the market.

How long do I have to wait until the policy starts?

Am i covered when driving other people's cars, is there a limit to the number of call-outs i can request, breakdown cover ratings.

Finder scores, in blue, are based on our expert analysis. We also show reviews from users, where we've received more than 10, with a score in yellow. We gather more reviews from customers every year in Finder's customer satisfaction survey.

To find out more, read our full methodology .

Danny Butler

Danny is a publisher at Finder specialising in insurance and investing. He previously worked at the global insurer Aon and has appeared in national media giving advice on insurance. Danny holds a BA in International Business from the University of Plymouth and has undying loyalty to his average-poor football team, Portsmouth FC.

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Admiral car insurance review

Although not as old as some other insurers – it was founded in 1993 – Admiral is now one of the biggest car insurance providers in the UK.

In fact, Admiral Group as a whole, which also includes brands like Veygo and Elephant Auto, is the UK’s biggest car insurance company full stop. It has also been voted the Best Motor Insurance at The Personal Finance Awards for every year since 2015.

Read on below for our Admiral car insurance review, including which policies it offers, how people feel about its customer service, and how it compares to its competitors.

What car insurance cover is offered by Admiral?

While Admiral has a wide range of car insurance policies, it has six main products, including Third party, Third party, fire and theft, and four levels of comprehensive cover, Admiral Essential, Admiral, Admiral Gold, and Admiral Platinum.

None of these policies include no claims bonus protection or hire car cover as standard, but they can be included as optional extras for an additional cost.

Third party

Third party car insurance is not only the most basic policy Admiral provides, it’s also the legal minimum cover you need to have to drive on UK roads. It includes:

• Third party cover : this means if you get in an accident, Admiral will pay out for the other driver, but not any damage to your own car
• 24 hour emergency helpline: regardless of when you have an accident, you can ring Admiral’s helpline
• Drive other cars: if eligible (you must be at least 25 years old), you can drive other cars on your insurance, but with third party cover only

For an extra cost, you can also include optional motor legal protection , roadside breakdown cover, and repair and replace windscreen cover.

Third party, fire and theft

Admiral’s third party, fire and theft insurance includes everything covered by third party only insurance, as well as:

• Fire damage: if your car is damaged by a fire, you can make a claim for the costs
• Theft: if your car is stolen, or damaged by an attempted theft, Admiral will cover the costs
• Courtesy car cover : you will get a temporary replacement vehicle if you take your car to an Admiral-approved garage after an accident
• European car cover: you can drive your car in Europe for up to 90 days, and have your own car costs covered if you’re in an accident
• Aftermarket stereo cover: any stereo devices fitted by third-party sellers are covered (as well as manufacturer fitted parts as standard)
• Replacement lock cover: you can get your keys or locks replaced, up to a maximum of £500, if your keys are stolen from somewhere that isn’t your car

As with third party cover, you can also add-on motor legal protection, roadside breakdown cover and windscreen cover.

Admiral Essential

Admiral Essential is the most basic level of the insurer’s comprehensive cover policies. This means it covers:

• Damage to your own vehicle: if your car is damaged in an accident, or through an act of vandalism, you can claim for the costs
• Third party damages: Admiral will cover the costs of the other driver’s damages if you get in an accident
• Fire damage: if you car is damaged in a fire, you can make a claim
• Theft: if your car is stolen, or damaged during an attempted theft, you can make a claim
• 24 hour emergency helpline: call Admiral anytime following an accident
• Courtesy car cover: if your car needs to be repaired following an accident, you can receive a courtesy car to drive while you wait for it to be fixed
• Replacement lock cover: if your keys are stolen from anywhere that isn’t your car, you can claim up to £500 to change the locks or replace your keys
• £5,000 personal injury cover: you can claim up to £5,000 for death, blindness, or loss of limbs resulting from an accident for you and your partner
• Child car seat cover: you can get a replacement car seat if yours is stolen or damaged

You can also choose to add-on motor legal protection and roadside breakdown cover.

The insurer’s Admiral policy includes everything found in the Admiral Essentials policy, as well as:

• Windscreen cover: you can get your windscreens replaced or repaired if they are damaged, although your excess will apply
• European cover: you can drive for 90 days in Europe, without taking out a new policy, and be able to make a claim for any damages to your car
• Drive other cars: you may be able to drive other cars on your Admiral third party policy, subject to eligibility (minimum age 25 years old)
• Aftermarket stereo cover: you can replace a stolen or damaged aftermarket stereo (manufactured parts are covered as standard)
• £200 personal belongings cover: you can claim up to £200 to help replace any personal belongings that are stolen or damaged while in your car
• New car replacement: if your car is up to 12 months old, and you are the first registered owner, you can get a like-for-like replacement if it is stolen or written-off

Admiral Gold

Admiral Gold includes everything found in the Admiral plan, as well as:

• Motor legal protection: if you have an accident, and it isn’t your fault, you can claim up to £100,000 in legal costs
• Onward travel: if your car breaks down, you can claim for alternative travel, and overnight accommodation if needed
• £300 personal belongings cover: you can claim up to £300 for any personal belongings stolen or damaged while stored in your car

You can also add roadside breakdown cover as an optional extra.

Admiral Platinum

With Admiral Platinum, you get everything offered by Admiral Gold, as well as the inclusion of roadside breakdown cover as standard.

Other Admiral car insurance products

Admiral also offers the following products:

• Multi-car insurance
• Black box insurance
• Business vehicle and van insurance
• Temporary car insurance
• Learner driver insurance 
• New driver car insurance
• Young driver car insurance

Admiral car insurance policies at a glance

Admiral car insurance optional extras.

With your Admiral car insurance policy, you should normally be able to choose some optional extras for an additional cost. These can include:

• Motor legal protection (included with Admiral Gold and Admiral Platinum as standard)
• Roadside breakdown cover (included with Admiral Platinum as standard)
• Windscreen cover (included with Admiral, Admiral Gold and Admiral Platinum as standard)
• Personal injury cover (included with Admiral Essentials, Admiral, Admiral Gold and Admiral Platinum)
• Protected no claims bonus
• Hire vehicle cover

How to claim with Admiral car insurance

If you want to make a car insurance claim with Admiral, you should follow these steps:

• Make sure you and any other parties involved are safe following the incident.
• Contact Admiral as soon as you can after the incident. You have a maximum of 48 hours to do so, regardless of whether or not you want to make a claim. This might be online, or over the phone (0333 220 2033).
• Confirm whether or not you are making a claim, and what kind of claim you want to make. For example, whether you’ve been in an accident, or that your car has been stolen.
• Admiral will arrange the relevant course of action for your claim. This may involve contacting the other driver if you have been in an accident.

How to cancel Admiral car insurance

If you want to cancel your Admiral car insurance, you will need to get in contact over the phone, via email, or using its live chat service.

When cancelling your Admiral car cover, you will need to pay a fee. Admiral’s cancellation fees are as follows:

How to make changes to Admiral car insurance

If you want to make changes to your Admiral car insurance policy, such as altering your name or address, it will cost you £13 if you do it online and £26 if you do it over the phone.

How to contact Admiral car insurance

You can manage your Admiral car insurance policy by logging into MyAccount.

If you need a bit more help, and want to contact Admiral, you can use the following options:

• Phone: 0333 220 2000 (8am to 7pm Monday to Friday, 9am to 3pm Saturdays, 9.30am to 4pm Sundays)
• Live chat (8am to 6pm Monday to Friday, 9am to 3pm Saturdays, 9.30am to 4pm Sundays)
• Admiral Virtual Assistant (AVA)

Admiral car insurance customer reviews

Admiral has an ‘Excellent’ Trustpilot rating of 4.4 out of five stars , based on over 42,900 reviews (as of 14 November 2023).

It is important to note, however, that these reviews are for the Admiral brand as a whole, and not just its car insurance products.

Of those related to car insurance, many of the brand’s five star reviews mention the quality of the company’s customer service, and the value for money of new quotes. These five star reviews make-up 67 per cent of Admiral’s rating.

However, of the 19 per cent of reviews that are rated one or two stars, a repeated complaint is the jump in renewal premiums.

“Very helpful and thorough agent helped me set up my daughter’s car insurance, checking throughout the process as what she did need and seeing if any savings could be included. Competitively priced and we are able to manage most things now online via the portal. Very good customer service, which we have found sadly isn’t always the case. We would definitely recommend Admiral.”

• Mr Marchant, via Trustpilot

“Helpful and friendly customer service. Recently, I didn’t have to wait too long on the phone in the queue either. They offer comprehensive insurance on the best prices. I would definitely recommend them.”

• Timea Gintner, via Trustpilot

“Renewal for car insurance due next month after one year with no claim. 60 per cent increase. Called and was offered a 5 per cent discount off the new rate. Very disappointed. Lost a customer that would have stayed indefinitely if there was a reasonable uplift but 60 per cent is an insult.”

• NB, via Trustpilot

How does Admiral compare to its competitors?

All scores are correct as of 14 November 2023.

Thanks to the range of its policies, Admiral allows you to pick the right level of cover for your needs.

Admiral Essentials might be of interest if you are looking for a basic level of fully comprehensive cover (although it only has three stars on Defaqto). At the other end of the spectrum, the Platinum level is an option if you want a feature-rich policy.

Its ‘Excellent’ Trustpilot score, and the repeated positive mentions of its customer service, suggests Admiral will be able to help you if you have any problems. Yet it might not be the best provider when it comes to renewals, based on the mentions of high premiums for existing customers.

Admiral car insurance FAQs

Is admiral good for car insurance.

With an ‘Excellent’ rating on Trustpilot, multiple five star rated policies on Defaqto, and the largest market share of any provider, there is plenty of evidence that Admiral is good for car insurance.

However, given that so much of your car insurance premium is based on you and your driving history, you should always compare car insurance providers before deciding on a policy.

Who owns Admiral insurance?

Admiral insurance is part of Admiral Group PLC. Other brands under the Admiral Group banner include Admiral Money, Apparent Insurance, Balumba, Bell and Veygo.

Connor Campbell

Connor Campbell is an experienced personal and business finance writer who has been producing online content for almost a decade. 

Connor is the personal finance expert for Independent Advisor, guiding readers through everything they need to know about car insurance and home insurance. From how much it costs to the best insurance providers in the UK, he’s here to help you find the right policy for your needs. 

In his capacity as writer and spokesperson at NerdWallet , Connor explored a number of topics close to his heart, such as the impact of our increasingly cashless society, and the hardships and heroics of British entrepreneurs. His commentary was featured in sites such as The Mirror , the Daily Express and Business Insider . 

At financial trading firm Spreadex, meanwhile, his market commentary was featured in outlets such as The Guardian , BBC , Reuters and the Evening Standard . 

Connor is a voracious reader with an MA in English, and is dedicated to making life’s financial decisions a little bit easier by doing away with jargon and needless complexity.

Amy is a seasoned writer and editor with a special interest in home design, sustainable technology and green building methods.

She has interviewed hundreds of self-builders, extenders and renovators about their journeys towards individual, well-considered homes, as well as architects and industry experts during her five years working as Assistant Editor at Homebuilding & Renovating, part of Future plc.

Amy’s work covers topics ranging from home, interior and garden design to DIY step-by-steps, planning permission and build costs, and has been published in Period Living, Real Homes, and 25 Beautiful Homes, Homes and Gardens.

Now an Editor at the Independent Advisor, Amy manages homes-related content for the site, including solar panels, combi boilers, and windows.

Her passion for saving tired and inefficient homes also extends to her own life; Amy completed a renovation of a mid-century house in 2022 and is about to embark on an energy-efficient overhaul of a 1800s cottage in Somerset.

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GORILLA TREKKING IN RWANDA

An exclusive + private travel experience by admiral travel international, escorted by admiral travel, august 28 – september 2, an exciting 5-night experience to view the mountain gorillas in volcanoes national park.

“Being personally in the presence of these majestic Mountain Gorillas and having the opportunity to witness their natural animal behavior in their own environment is a particularly powerful experience that will settle deeply in your soul.” – Ryan Hilton

Gorilla Program: $11,995.00 per person, based on double occupancy

Gorilla trekking permits: $1,500.00 per person per day (2 days).

“For a few decades now, I have heard from travelers who have personally experienced being in the presence of these great Apes. All show a lot of excitement when telling me about how impressive it was. In fact, they all say that it is the most moving travel experience and easily the most amazing wildlife encounter they have ever had, and now that I have experienced this myself , I can confirm that this is now one of my top 5 overall travel experiences – top 2 when it comes to wildlife!” – Malaka Hilton

August 28, 2023 – Upon arrival into Kigali, Rwanda you will be greeted, welcomed and transferred to the Kigali Hotel for an overnight stay. This evening, meet your fellow travelers for a welcome drink and review the plans and times for tomorrow in detail. Dinner this evening is at your leisure.

August 29, 2023 – After breakfast, we depart Kigali by road for Volcanoes National Park to enjoy 3 nights at One&Only Gorillas Nest. The leisurely drive takes us through a gorgeous African landscape winding past many rural villages offering us a taste of local life. Upon arrival at Gorilla’s Nest, the team will provide an orientation to this exceptional lodge. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to settle into our accommodations and prepare for our first opportunity to search for & witness the Mountain Gorillas tomorrow.

Human-like Hands

One&only gorillas nest.

August 30, 2023 – Awake before sunrise to indulge in a fresh cup of coffee and a hearty breakfast – ideal fuel for the day ahead, trekking to the Mountain Gorillas. A short drive from Gorilla’s Nest positions us at Volcanoes National Park, where our route assignments & instruction are given. All rules & restrictions will be explained thoroughly, as safety & viewing comfort is a top priority while visiting these animals in their natural environment.

Our day begins at the Volcanoes National Park Headquarters for route assignments.

The trek to locate and observe these majestic gorillas

With an average elevation of approximately 8,500 ft, we can expect the air to be thin and the conditions under foot to be muddy and challenging. The length of your walk/hike to the animals depends on the gorilla family to which you are assigned, as well their location on the volcanoes. There is no rush however, as we have the entire day to locate the gorillas and enjoy our one hour alongside them. Your trekking group will always move cautiously, carefully, and at a pace that is suitable for all participants.

One hour with the gorillas will show us incredible animal behavior from each family member.

In the afternoon, we will return to Gorilla’s Nest to reflect & reminisce on our awe-inspiring experience with the gorillas on the volcanoes. After a sweaty, muddy day, we will return to our rooms to freshen up & prepare our gear for the second trek tomorrow. We will then enjoy a delicious dinner, followed by a relaxing evening around the fire, listening to our fellow travelers’ stories. A well-earned good night’s rest is in order!

Intore Dancers

One&Only Gorilla’s Nest

August 31, 2023 –  Your second day would start early once again and after a fueling breakfast of choice, we will return to the Volcanoes National Park Headquarters for our route assignments for the day. Today, we will aim for different gorilla families than we observed yesterday, to ensure diversity in your experience. The families will be determined that morning, and the assignments will be guided by our interest, ability, and where the animals were last seen.

 The route for the day.

Preparing to enter the natural forest foliage

Mountain Gorilla social groups

After an exhilarating trek and another moving encounter with the Mountain Gorillas, we return to Gorilla’s Nest with the remainder of the day at your leisure to relax and reflect. These comfortable surroundings offer the perfect setting to unwind and absorb the profound experience you’ve enjoyed as it settles into your memory. Closing out the day, you will hopefully find yourself fireside, as you prepare for a peaceful rest.

A perfect place to rest your head after two busy days

September 1, 2022 – This morning, enjoy a luxurious sleep-in and breakfast before saying goodbye to One&Only Gorilla’s Nest and Volcanoes National Park. We will have a leisurely, scenic drive through this gorgeous ‘land of a thousand hills’ back to Kigali for your onward travels

September 2, 2022 – Those who overnight in Kigali to fly onward to Kenya for our hosted journey to the Masaai Mara will be transferred to the Kigali Airport for onward travel.

Our scenic route through towns and villages across rolling hills

Gorilla Program: $11,995.00 per person, based on double occupancy + Gorilla Trekking permits of $1,500.00 per person, per day (2 days)

$17,995.00 per person, single occupancy, call isabelle finly at 941-951-1801 at extension 105 now to secure your space on this departure today you may e-mail at [email protected]..

PLEASE NOTE:

• All payments made to or on behalf of Admiral Travel are non-refundable unless stated otherwise
• If minimum numbers are not met for a hosted departure, prices are subject to change / increase to confirm same program on a private basis
• Founder’s Journey will always be priced at or below published rates, but never higher.
• Travel with like-minded individuals on these exclusive departures.
• Enjoy a welcome cocktail party to meet your fellow travelers.
• On many occasions, optional shore events are offered as an option that only our group is invited to join.
• Special global relationships that the Hiltons have formed over the years will allow you privileged access opportunities.
• Trips are offered well in advance to give ample time for your future planning.
• Minimum number of guests needed for Admiral Travel to escort.

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

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Travel Insurance

• Existing Customers

Sun, sea or city break, Admiral customers get 10% off Travel Insurance

Existing Admiral customers looking to buy Travel Insurance can get 10% off their price and choose from 3 levels of cover.

Use discount code: ADM003

5 Star Travel Insurance from Admiral

5 star rated platinum level travel insurance.

Our Platinum level cover has Defaqto's 5 Star rating.

Covid-19 - what our travel insurance covers

Our travel insurance now covers you for certain events related to Coronavirus (COVID-19), as long as you have a medically approved positive Covid-19 test from a registered medical practitioner and your cover is active at the time of the event.

What we cover

We provide cover for some costs related to Covid-19: please see Section 1 'emergency medical costs and repatriation' and Section 2 'cancelling or cutting short your trip' in your policy book for full details on what's covered.

We'll cover you if:

• you were diagnosed with Covid-19 before your trip was due to start
• a close relative died or became seriously ill as a result of Covid-19 before your trip was due to start
• you weren't allowed to board your pre-booked outbound travel due to symptoms of Covid-19
• an insured person or a close relative died during the trip because of Covid-19
• you couldn't take part in an excursion due to you self-isolating after getting Covid-19

What we don’t cover

You won't be covered if:

• you had reason to believe your trip may be cancelled, postponed or cut short when you booked it, purchased your policy or started your trip
• any government or public authority imposes travel restrictions or quarantine on a community, location, or vessel because of Covid-19 (this includes, but is not limited to, local lockdowns, entry requirements, being denied entry and airspace closures)
• you have to quarantine after arriving in the UK or abroad
• the Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) change their advice to avoid ‘all travel’ or ‘all but essential travel’ to your destination because of Covid-19

For more information about how Coronavirus (COVID-19) affects your travel cover, see our FAQ page . And remember to check the policy booklet carefully before you buy to make sure our cover meets your needs.

Four reasons to choose Admiral Travel Insurance

Terms and conditions, 10% off travel insurance offer for existing admiral customers.

• Admiral is a trading name of EUI Limited (Company Number 02686904) whose registered office is at Ty Admiral, David Street, Cardiff CF10 2EH (“the Promoter”).
• This promotion is available to those who have any active Admiral Insurance policy at the time of purchase.
• The promotion means the existing Admiral customer is eligible to receive a 10% discount for Admiral Travel Insurance when purchasing a new Admiral Travel Insurance policy (the “Discount”).
• To apply the discount, customers can get a Single or Annual Travel Insurance quote via https://www.admiral.com/ and enter USE CODE ADM003 or enter your existing policy number when prompted.
• The Discount will then come off the total balance when purchasing the policy.
• The Discount will remain available until 31/12/22 which it shall automatically expire.
• This promotion cannot be combined with any other promotion or be used via a price comparison website.
• The Promoter reserves the right to withdraw, modify or terminate this promotion in whole or in part, if it is necessary to do so.
• The terms and conditions of this promotion do not alter or vary the terms and conditions of any Admiral Travel Insurance policy which may be purchased.
• Applications for insurance policies provided by the Promoter are subject to its normal terms and conditions including its underwriting criteria. The Promoter reserves the right to decline any application for any insurance policy at its absolute discretion and is not obliged to disclose any reason for rejection. In these cases, the customer will not be eligible to receive the Discount.
• Any fraudulent activity or abuse relating to the receipt and use of the Discount may result in the forfeiture of the Discount and termination of the insurance policy.
• These terms and conditions are to be governed by English law and are subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the English and Welsh courts.

What level of cover do I need?

Choose from three tiers: Admiral, Admiral Gold or Admiral Platinum cover.

Read the full list of benefits in the policy summary booklet .

Craving the adrenaline rush of hitting the slopes? Make sure you add on our Winter Sports Upgrade .

Taking to the seas on a cruise liner? Include the Cruise Upgrade .

Without these upgrades, your trip won't be covered at all.

Also consider the length of cover you need. Single Trip policies cover one trip up to 365 days while our Annual Travel policies cover you for 12 months. You can take an unlimited number of trips lasting up to 31 days on the annual policy.

Your questions answered

Is coronavirus covered by my travel insurance.

To find out how Covid-19 affects your travel insurance, take a look at our dedicated FAQ page . 

Is it illegal to travel without holiday insurance?

No, it's not a legal requirement but it gives you cover against things like cancelled holidays, missed transports, missing luggage and injury while abroad.

Does travel insurance cover natural disasters?

Cover for catastrophes including fire, storm, lightning, avalanche, landslide, explosion, hurricane, earthquake, volcanic activity including ash cloud, flood, tidal wave, tsunami, medical epidemic or pandemic are all included as standard on our Gold and Platinum policies. This cover is not included in our Admiral level policy. 

My partner and I live at separate addresses, can we still buy a couple policy?

No, you would need to buy individual policies. Our definitions are:

• Individual policy – one adult aged 18 or over.
• Couple policy - two adults aged 18 or over who live at the same address and are in a relationship.
• Family policy – two adults aged 18 or over who live at the same address plus at least one child (maximum 5).
• Family one adult policy – one adult plus at least one child (maximum 5).

What is your definition of Europe?

When we refer to Europe , we are referring to the following countries and territories: Albania, Andorra, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark (including Faroe Islands), Egypt, Estonia, Finland (including Aland), France (including Corsica), Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy (including Sardinia and Sicily), Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Morocco, Netherlands, Norway (including Svalbard), Poland, Portugal (including Azores and Madeira), Republic of Ireland, Romania, Russia (West of Urals), San Marino, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain (including the Balearic and Canary Islands), Sweden, Switzerland, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, The United Kingdom (including Channel Islands and Isle of Man), Vatican City.

Am I covered for private medical treatment?

No, you will need to have any private treatment pre-authorised by the Emergency Assistance Service. If you are travelling in Europe , Australia or New Zealand you can access public health services, free of charge and you won't be required to pay any excesses on the Medical Expenses section of your policy.

What happens if I'm the victim of a terrorist attack while I'm abroad?

First of all, we hope that this is never the case. But, if you do need emergency assistance, please call +44 (0)29 2010 7777 at any time and we'll do everything we can to help.

Are there any destinations I can't travel to under my policy?

Yes, no matter which destination you select when you buy your policy, you aren't covered if you travel somewhere the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advises not to go to. For more information see the FCDO's foreign travel advice page or call  020 7008 1500 .

What cover is there for dental treatment?

With new policies, you're covered for up to £400 for “emergency dental treatment for the immediate relief of pain to your natural teeth incurred outside of your home area” under the Emergency Medical and Repatriation section of your cover (subject to your excess).

Can I upgrade my travel policy cover level after I've taken it out?

No, sorry. Currently, this isn't possible.

Is terrorism covered?

Terrorism is excluded from all sections of the policy except for the Emergency Medical and Repatriation section, Personal Accident section and Hijack section (where cover is provided as part of the platinum tier only).

Terrorism is any act or threat of action by a person or group intended to influence a government or to frighten the public or any section of it.

Acts of terrorism can include:

• Violence against a person
• Damage to property
• Putting life in danger
• Creating a health risk to the public
• Interfering with or seriously disrupting computer systems or transport services including cyber terrorism
• Biological, chemical or nuclear force or contamination

Can I get cover in the event of scheduled airline failure?

We will not pay any claim due to the actions or failure of any company providing or organising your transport or accommodation, to provide those services (whether caused by error, insolvency, bankruptcy, liquidation, omission, default or other reason).

Do I need to declare existing medical conditions to get Admiral cover?

Declaring your medical conditions will ensure you are purchasing a policy which meets your needs. It's important you supply accurate and complete answers to all questions as failure to do so could mean your policy is invalid and/or your claim is not paid in full or refused.

I have an Annual Multi-Trip policy. What is the longest I can go on holiday for?

You can take as many trips as you wish within 365 days (as per the dates shown on your policy schedule), providing each trip lasts no more than 31 days. Cover for extended trips may be available on request, subject to underwriting approval and payment of an additional premium.

Take a look at our Annual Travel Insurance page to learn more.

Will my holiday insurance cover me if the travel agent/tour operator/airline company goes into administration?

No it doesn't cover this. If the company is an ABTA member, you can submit a claim to them for the cost of your holiday.

Do you cover children under 18?

Cover can't be bought for a child under the age of 18 alone. A child under 18 can be added to our family policies where at least one adult over the age of 18 is also going on the trip (single trip policies).

A child can be added to annual multi trip family policies where the insured adult will travel later in the policy term. Each insured child under the age of 18 will only be covered if they're travelling with a responsible adult. This adult doesn't need to be insured with us.

What happens if I can't return from my trip on my planned date because of illness or injury; am I still covered?

Yes, we extend your policy and continue to provide cover in those circumstances where the delay is completely outside of your control.

I don't live in the UK – can I get travel cover?

Unfortunately not. It's only available to permanent residents of the UK (England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales and the Isle of Man).

What happens if strike/industrial action disrupts my trip?

Provided you weren't aware of the strike/industrial action at the time you booked your policy, and it wasn't public knowledge, we'll pay up to the limits shown in your policy schedule for irrecoverable costs you've paid.

What happens if my baggage is delayed, lost or stolen?

If your baggage is delayed or lost in transit, you should tell the company transporting your baggage within 24 hours of discovery. Ask them to complete a Property Irregularity Report or give you with a baggage loss receipt. If your baggage is delayed for more than 12 hours from when you arrive at your destination, your policy provides cover to buy necessary items (up to £50, £100 or £150 depending on your tier of cover).

If your baggage is stolen, you should report this to the local police within 24 hours of discovering the theft and get a written report. You can claim (up to £1,000, £2,000 or £2,500 depending on your tier) for stolen or lost items. There's a single item limit and total valuables limit (up to £200, £300 or £400 depending on your tier).

Are there any charges to change my policy?

No, we don't charge any admin fees.

What should I do if I or someone travelling with me becomes ill during my holiday?

If you or someone covered by your policy becomes ill or is injured during your trip and needs emergency medical treatment, please go to a public medical facility and contact our 24 hour emergency assistance line on +44 (0)29 2010 7777 as soon as you can.

Please call this number if you're unsure where to get treatment, you think costs may go over £500, or you think you'll need to cut your trip short.

For minor ailments while abroad, pharmacies and public health facilities are often able to give advice and provide treatment. If costs are more than the policy excess and you want to make a claim, please keep all receipts and call our claims line on  0333 234 9914 .

Does my policy allow someone to travel out to be with me if I am ill abroad?

Yes. If you've been given medical advice that someone should stay with you and that requires someone travelling from the UK to be with you, we'll cover the reasonable extra transport and accommodation costs (up to the policy limit) for that person.

How long can I travel for?

The maximum length of a Single Trip policy is 12 months, making it ideal for backpackers and students taking a gap year. If you choose an Annual Multi-Trip policy you can take as many trips as you wish within 365 days (as per the dates shown on your policy schedule), providing each trip lasts no more than 31 days. Cover for extended trips may be available on request, subject to underwriting approval and payment of an additional premium.

How to extend travel insurance due to illness or injury

if you have to extend your trip for medical reasons our policies will automatically provide cover until you return home.

If you have a single trip policy and need to change your travel dates, you must contact us before you go on your trip.

If you have annual multi-trip cover, the maximum length per trip on the policy is 31 days.

If your annual policy is due to end while you're on holiday and your policy is not set up to automatically renew, please contact us before you travel so we can arrange for your policy to continue while you're away.

What should I do if my travel is disrupted by severe weather?

We'll pay £25 for each 12 hours you are delayed (up to a maximum of £250) from starting your journey due to severe weather.

If your transport is delayed for more than 24 hours or cancelled and cannot be rearranged for over 24 hours, cover is provided (for costs up to £1,000 on Admiral, £3,000 on Admiral Gold and £5,000 on Admiral Platinum) if you decide to cancel or abandon your trip.

Additional transport and accommodation cover* - If you decide to continue with your trip after being delayed for more than 24 hours or because your transport was cancelled and no alternative could be found within 24 hours of your original departure time, we'll reimburse you (up to £500, £750 or £1,000 depending on your tier of cover) for additional transport and accommodation costs that matches the standard of what you'd originally booked.

We won't make any payments if they aren't additional to costs you were already expecting to pay - for example if you get a refund and the cost of alternative transport or accommodation is less than the refund. Check your policy book for full details.

Do you cover my car if it breaks down when I'm driving in Europe?

No, your holiday insurance doesn't cover car breakdown. However, if you have Admiral Car Insurance , you can extend this to provide European Breakdown Cover . This covers you and your car in case it breaks down while abroad in Europe.

What does excess mean in travel insurance?

The policy excess is the amount you must pay towards any claim. The excess applies to each insured person and each event that leads to a claim.

Can I get one-way travel insurance?

No, Admiral doesn't offer one way travel insurance. To buy our cover, you'll need to be travelling from and returning to the UK.

Do you cover travellers over the age of 70 for Annual Multi-Trip policies?

Yes, we can provide worldwide cover for customers up to the age of 79 years for annual multi trip policies – and up to 85 years for single trip policies.

However, the age limit and level of cover we can offer will depend on your personal information and details of your holiday.

Please get a quote or contact us to find out more.

Do you cover travellers over the age of 70 for Single Trip policies?

Am i covered if my flights are disrupted because of brexit.

You'll be covered if there's any disruption to your flights (in line with current cover and exclusions) if you already have travel cover or have booked a trip on your annual policy.

If there's an official warning from the Government or airlines that suggests flights are likely to be disrupted, customers buying new policies may not be covered.

I don't want to travel because of Brexit – can I cancel my trip?

If you decide you don't want to travel because of Brexit and end up cancelling your trip, you won't be able to claim. Not wanting to travel isn't a valid cancellation reason for claiming.

Will I need a visa to travel to the EU after Brexit?

In the future, it's possible UK citizens will need a travel permit as part of the European Travel Information and Authorisation Scheme (ETIAS). 

If you can't go on your trip because you don't have the correct visa or permit, you won't be able to claim on your cover.

How long will I need on my passport after Brexit?

The Government recommends UK travellers have at least six months left on their passports from the date they arrive in an EU country when travelling after 29 March 2019. Check the validity of your passport online with this handy tool .

If you can't go on your trip as you don't have enough time left on your passport (or you didn't renew it in time), you won't be able to make a claim.

Can I still use my EHIC card after Brexit?

If your EHIC is still in date, you can use it when you travel. Otherwise you'll need to apply for the new Global Health Insurance Card ( GHIC ).

If you have a medical emergency while you're abroad, you're injured, fall ill, or have to cut your trip short please call our 24-hour Emergency Assistance Helpline on +44 (0)292 010 7777.

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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.

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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.

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.

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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.

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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.

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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).

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.

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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.

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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.

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.

MindTheTravel

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

Mariella Blago

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

Thanks, Mariella!

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.

Tara Pittman

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

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?

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!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

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

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.

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!

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!

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

Reesa Lewandowski

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

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.

Chelsea Pearl

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

Thumbs up! 🙂

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…

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