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Rituals Hair Products Review: Our Honest Thoughts on Rituals Shampoos and Conditioners

An in-depth review of rituals cosmetics haircare products.

Whether you have fine, thick, curly or straight hair, finding the right haircare products can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. With so many options in the market, it’s no wonder many of us struggle to know where to start. In this article, I’ll be sharing my honest take on Rituals cosmetics haircare range after trying multiple products from their collection. Read on to find out if Rituals might work for your hair type!

The Rituals Haircare Philosophy

Rituals believes in natural, results-driven formulas that nourish hair without harming the environment. Their products are free from sulfates, silicones and parabens – ingredients that are common but can potentially cause build-up or irritation. They use plant-based cleansers and conditioning agents like coconut oil derivatives, shea butter and botanical oils instead. The brand aims to indulge all five senses through luxurious textures and subtle fragrances reminiscent of spa treatments. Pretty neat, if you ask me!

Products I Tried

• Rituals The Ritual of Samurai Instant Foam Shampoo – A voluminizing shampoo for fine or limp hair
• Rituals The Ritual of Ayurveda Smoothing Conditioner – A moisturizing conditioner for frizzy, dry hair
• Rituals The Ritual of Karma Komforting Hair Mist – A lightweight detangling spray

I have wavy, medium-thickness Asian hair that’s easily prone to frizz. So these three products seemed ideal for my hair type and concerns. Over the next few weeks, I incorporated each one into my routine to see how they fared.

Performance Review

The shampoo has a lovely mandarin-patchouli scent that isn’t overpowering. It lathered up nicely and left my hair feeling silkier but not stripped – a common problem I have with other clarifying shampoos. My strands seemed bouncier and more voluminous after use too. Score one for Rituals!

As for the conditioner, oh man this stuff is dreamy. It smells straight-up like a tropical vacation in a bottle! The thick, creamy texture melted into my hair with ease. Ten minutes later when I rinsed, my tresses felt super soft and smooth. Any frizz or flyaways had disappeared without a trace. Cool, huh?

Last but not least, the detangling spray is a total lifesaver on busy mornings. Just a few spritzes and it works magic – my brush glided through knots with no pain or pulling. The lightweight formula also adds shine and prevents further tangles. Ya girl approves, for sure.

The Verdict

Overall, I was pretty stoked with how these Rituals products performed. Their natural formulations nourished without weighing my hair down. The scents were super pleasant too – a nice bonus. From my experience, I’d say they’re totally worth a shot if you have similar hair woes like frizz, limpness or tangles.

A potential con is the price – they’re on the pricier side. But sometimes you really do get what you pay for, and I felt these luxe formulas were worth the investment. A little goes a long way, so the bottles will last. In conclusion, I’d give Rituals haircare line a solid 4 stars. It delivered salon-quality results without the salon-quality price tag.

So in summary, if your ‘do needs some TLC, these Rituals faves could be the perfect solution. Why not check ’em out? You might find your new holy grails too. Let me know if you have any other questions!

Now I’m kinda craving some coconut pandan rice – the conditioner scent totally reminds me of Southeast Asian desserts. Makes me hungry just thinking about it! Anyone else get random food associations from product smells? Or is it just me? LOL.

Hope you found this reviews helpful in deciding if Rituals is the right fit for you. Feel free to leave a comment if you have any other questions! Toodles for now.

Rituals Hair Care Products Review

• What benefits do hair rituals products provide? Basically, hair rituals products claim to reduce frizz and add shine to your locks. They say using these special conditioners and masks can soften your strands and make your ‘do look incredibly smooth. At the same time, some folks argue these expensive treatments don’t do much that a regular conditioner can’t.
• Are hair rituals products worth the high price? That’s a fair question. Hair rituals products may seem expensive, but those behind the brands insist they use seriously amazing ingredients not found in drugstore products. Perhaps fancy butters and oils can treat your tresses better. However, it may simply come down to whether you think the benefits justify dropping some serious cash. Is amazing hair worth it to you?
• How often should you use hair rituals masks and treatments? Most experts recommend using intensive hair rituals masks and treatments once a week. Deep conditioning your locks on a weekly basis appears to keep them soft, shiny and healthy-looking over time. That said, if your hair feels seriously dry or damaged, you might need to double up for a bit. And those with thin or oily hair may find thrice a month is plenty. Listen to your strands and do what works best!
• Can hair rituals products cause buildup? Potentially, yes. All those rich butters and emollients in hair rituals masks and treatments are meant to deeply nourish your hair, but they can potentially leave unwanted residue if not rinsed properly. Regular clarifying shampoos help remove any product buildup. Do you sometimes feel like your hair looks flat or dull between washes? You may want to try clarifying more frequently if hair rituals items leave your locks feeling weighed down.
• Are there any alternative “poor man’s hair rituals?” Funny you should ask! I sort of wonder the same thing sometimes. Maybe we could DIY cost-effective hair masks using ingredients from the kitchen. After all, eggs, honey, olive oil and yogurt are like amazingly nourishing foods for hair too, right? Has anyone tried just whipping up a homemade mix on the cheap? Shoot, for serious results, we may have to test that poor man’s theory ourselves and report back!
• Do hair rituals really work differently for curly hair? It’s true that curly hair has very different needs than straight locks. The curls require extra moisture but less weight and residue. After flipping through customer reviews online, it seems like the curly-approved hair rituals products genuinely know that. Folks with curls rave about lines that leave their coils softmaxed and hydrated without frizz or flakes. Perhaps hair rituals firms truly get what curly hair desires.
• Is it OK to share hair rituals products with friends? That’s a kind gesture, but some experts say it may not be totally hygienic or sanitary to share hair care items that are meant for solely personal use. Different heads of hair have different pH balances and needs. Bacteria and whatnot can spread between scalps. Nevertheless, I’m not sure a little sharing is absolutely awful either as long as you trust the friend doesn’t have any nits or anything gross like that. What do you think – is sharing hair gold totally taboo?

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The Best Travel Size Shampoos for Healthy Hair

Branded content. Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships so we may receive compensation for some links to products and services.

Traveling can stress out your hair and skin, whether it’s caused by small hotel shampoos that steal every scrap of moisture from your scalp or your grandma’s giant bottle of Suave shampoo that she’s had since the early 00s. That’s why having a premium travel-size shampoo can go a long way in helping you look and feel your best.

Finding the right travel-size shampoo can prevent frizz, breakage, and dryness while keeping your hair healthy and full of life. If you head into your local grocery store, you’ll find a section of travel products with brands that may not work for your hair type, so we’ve done the research to find affordable premium haircare products so you can live your best—hair—life.

Things to consider when choosing a travel-size shampoo:

TSA-compliant size : Travel products should always be compliant with TSA policies. Liquid items in your carry-on should be 3.4 oz (100 ml) or smaller. Pack larger liquid in your checked luggage to avoid having them confiscated.

Hair type : Finding products that suit your hair and scalp is essential. Not all shampoo formulas will deliver the results you’re after. When browsing, ensure the cleanser provides the proper nutrients or moisture for your best hair day—even while traveling.

Hair-loving ingredients : Look for plant-based ingredients that ensure the hair and scalp get clean without removing moisture. The best travel-size shampoos contain naturally derived ingredients suitable for all hair types.

We’ve gathered the best travel-size shampoos so you can keep your hair healthy and strong.

1. Blu Atlas Shampoo (Included in Essentials Travel Set)

Travel often results in dry, damaged hair, but that doesn’t have to be your norm. Blu Atlas Shampoo is the best travel-size shampoo because it contains nourishing and moisturizing ingredients that ensure each strand retains hydration as you cleanse.

Naturally derived ingredients like jojoba oil, vegan biotin, aloe vera, and saw palmetto ensure your hair keeps moisture locked in, while coconut-derived surfactants lather up to remove excess oil, dirt, and pollution. The formula is free from sulfates, paraben, and phthalates and cleanses hair gently.

2. Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Shampoo

Perfect hair Day Shampoo is a travel-size cleanser that gently removes product buildup and oil from the hair and scalp. Living Proof is a popular brand that makes traveling more fun. Twenty-one of their customer-favorite products are available in TSA-compliant sizes that fit into a toiletry kit.

Lather up and help your hair shine with a shampoo free of silicone, paraben, phthalates, and sulfate. After one wash, the 2 oz bottle strengthens hair and adds 68% more shine.

3. Native Cucumber & Mint Volumizing Shampoo

Allow yourself to unwind and get your whole body squeaky clean after stressful travel days with a shampoo that focuses on nourishing ingredients. Native products harness potent plant-derived ingredients to deliver a premium grooming experience. Check the back of the bottle to see Native’s brand transparency in action and learn more about naturally derived ingredients in the ‘poo.

Cucumber & Mint Volumizing Shampoo adds extra oomph to flat, tired hair while cleaning and removing product build-up and oil. Native shampoos are always paraben-free, sulfate-free, silicone-free, and dye-free, so you don’t have to worry about breakage or damage.

4. Pureology Hydrate Shampoo

Treat your scalp to a hydrating wash with Pureology’s Hydrate Shampoo. As a premium haircare brand, Pureology brings together luxury ingredients for an elevated cleansing ritual. As you wash your strands, the shower steam whips up a spa-like aromatherapy treatment with the cleanser’s soothing blend of lavender, patchouli, and bergamot.

Hydrate Shampoo is the perfect TSA-friendly bottle at 1.7 oz for folks with dry, dull hair. As a vegan, sulfate-free formula, it works for all hair types, including those with color-treated hair. The shampoo is ideal for folks with medium to thick hair types as the formula works deep into the hair to revive each strand.

5. Kiehl’s Amino Acid Refillable Shampoo

Mild shampoos tend to get a bad rap, but Kiehl’s Amino Acid Shampoo is an ideal mild cleanser for those with sensitive scalps. The ‘poo is suitable for all hair types and gently cleanses the hair and scalp with soothing ingredients like fair trade coconut oil, amino acids, and hydrolyzed wheat proteins.

Kiehl designed the bottle for an easy refill with a larger bottle of the cleanser, and the brand strives to reduce waste with its refillable bottle set and refill packages. Amino Acid Shampoo is one of the best travel-size shampoos for folks who want to keep their hair healthy, clean, and strong, and the bottle is also TSA-compliant at 2.6 oz.

6. Act+Acre Cold-Pressed Balancing Shampoo

Cold-Pressed Balancing Shampoo takes haircare a step further by focusing on the needs of your hair and scalp. Free from sulfates and silicones, it’s a nutrient-dense cleansing formula that removes dirt, oil, and product build-up without stressing out the skin.

Act+Acre’s cleanser removes pollution and everyday buildup while restoring luster and shine to your hair. Apple amino acids and baobab oil rejuvenate the scalp and hair and ensure the hair stays healthy and strong. Pair this travel-size shampoo with the Act+Acre Conditioner to create the perfect hair day.

7. Bumble and Bumble Sunday Shampoo

Bumble and Bumble’s Sunday Shampoo is a no-brainer for those seeking a deep cleansing treatment. The formula works well for all hair types but not for color-treated hair. Each gorgeous blue bottle is 2 oz and provides enough washes for a few weeks of intense clarifying treatments.

Sunday Shampoo is not ideal for travelers looking for a gentle daily cleanser or those with skin sensitivities. It’s an excellent match for active folks engaged in physical activity or traveling to a hot, sweaty vacation spot who will need a deep clean.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a travel-size shampoo.

A travel-size shampoo is a TSA-friendly bottle that’s 3.4 oz (100 ml) or smaller. Travel-size shampoos fit in toiletry bags that are designed for easy access.

How many washes can you get out of a travel-size shampoo?

Most travel-size shampoos (3.4 oz) last 12 uses. This number may change depending on the length or density of your hair. Those with long hair or thick, dense curls may need to use more shampoo each time they wash, resulting in fewer washes.

Can you take travel-size shampoo on a plane?

You can bring travel-size shampoo bottles that are 3.4 oz (100 ml) or smaller on a plane. We recommend double-checking the size of products in your travel toiletry kit before flying so they don’t get taken by TSA. (Some airports allow travelers to mail items to their homes if they are not allowed through security).

Members of the editorial and news staff of Us Weekly were not involved in the creation of this content.

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Spa Rituals Conditioner | 300 Count, 1 oz | Fresh Botanicals, Mini Travel Size Toiletries (100% Recyclable Tube with Flip Top Cap) Hotel Amenities, Airbnb Rentals, Suitable for All Hair Types

( $0.45 / Fl Oz )

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World Amenities

Where Necessity Meets Luxury

Spa Rituals Conditioner- Mini Travel Size

Enhance your guests' bathing experience with Spa Rituals Conditioner. Our mini travel size toiletries are designed to provide a luxurious and refreshing sensation. Rediscover the pleasure of simple ingredients combined with the invigorating scent of garden flowers, herbs, and fruits. Our conditioner is suitable for all hair types, as it is made with clean ingredients such as fresh flowers, herbs, and fruits. These natural elements work together to replenish and nourish the hair, leaving it healthy and vibrant. To ensure convenience and hygiene, each Spa Rituals Conditioner comes in an individually bottled tube with a flip top cap. This travel-friendly design makes it ideal for hotels, resorts, Airbnb rentals, VRBO, beach houses, motels, lodging, vacation rentals, inns, bed & breakfasts, offices, gyms, guest bedrooms, day spas, salons, wedding events, relief organizations, charity events, and survivor kits.

At Spa Rituals, we are committed to sustainability and cruelty-free practices. Our packaging is made with EcoPure, an organic additive that causes plastic to biodegrade. By choosing our products, you contribute to a greener future. Our conditioner is not only cruelty-free but also mineral based and vegan friendly. In addition to providing a luxurious experience, Spa Rituals also contributes to a greater cause. World Amenities, the company behind Spa Rituals, donates to the Global Clean Water Initiative. With each purchase, you help provide access to clean, and reliable water across sub-Saharan Africa. By treating your guests to Spa Rituals, you are also helping to make a positive impact on communities in need. Elevate your guests' bathing routine with Spa Rituals travel size toiletries. With our 300-count value pack of 1 oz individually bottled tubes, you save while providing a memorable experience for your guests. Indulge your guests in an incredible, natural bathing experience. Pamper them and make a difference with Spa Rituals!

Travel Hair Conditioner for All Hair Types

Made with gentle and simple ingredients, this nourishing conditioner can be used by your guests, whatever their hair type may be. This hair conditioner is infused with natural ingredients like fresh flowers, herbs, and fruits to replenish moisture and nourish hair, so guests can enjoy freshening up without any worry. This nourishing formula will leave hair healthy and vibrant.

Invigorating Fresh Scent

With Spa Rituals travel conditioner, your guests will experience the pure pleasure of gentle ingredients combined with the fresh mix scent of garden flowers, herbs, and fruits. The aromatherapy conditioner will keep guests relaxed and rejuvenated after bath or shower. Treat your guests to an incredible, natural bathing experience with Spa Rituals toiletries.

Travel-Friendly Toiletries

The Spa Rituals collection is vegan, paraben-free, and entirely recyclable. Making items that are efficient and not harmful to the environment is something we really believe in at Spa Rituals. We are dedicated to using straightforward, all-natural materials for our toiletries that are beneficial for the environment and your skin. Your guests will aid to supply clean water in addition to rediscovering cleaner and fresher skin. In addition to providing your guests with convenient hotel necessities for travel, choosing Spa Rituals hair conditioner allows you to support a good cause.

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• UPC ‏ : ‎ 667466356029
• Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ World Amenities
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B09XPJP72V
• #8,118 in Hair Conditioner

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When is the best time to visit Moscow? | Weather, budget, events by month

• July 14, 2023

Discover when is the best time to visit Moscow. In this blog post, I will talk about weather, budget and other things to know to choose the best time when to go to Moscow for you. I cannot account the times when we went in Moscow. Here are the pros and the cons of each month taking all main criteria into account!

I will first describe the main criteria that will help you choose when to go to Moscow:

• Climate in Moscow: temperatures and weather

Special events in Moscow

• Budget and visa

Then I will talk about each season (go directly to this party if you already have an idea of ​​the desired departure date):

• Advantages and disadvantages month by month

The weather cannot be the only criterion to decide when is the best time to visit Moscow for you. Even if the temperatures drop low, Moscow in December is just magical! This is why I advise to take into account several criteria at the same time. Also remember that it takes at least a month to get the Russian visa.

When to go to Moscow: climate and weather

The seasons are well marked. The mid-season months are not necessarily the best for the weather. However, they are not necessarily to be avoided, because, as we will see later, Moscow is a city that changes all the time and the prices can be more attractive. For example, for a lot of people winter is the best time to visit Moscow.

Weather in Moscow. Moscow is inland, making the city “more protected” from changing weather. For example, the weather is much more changeable in St. Petersburg. On the other hand, the weather in Moscow is more and more scorching in summer, we can then easily reach 30 degrees (for the Russians, it’s already the heat wave).

Moscow temperatures

As soon as you think of Russia, you want to do “Brrrr”. Let’s prepare our down jackets! Indeed, the Russian climate is not the mildest on the planet. However, it all depends on the region, because the country is very large. Moscow is almost at the same latitude as Copenhagen. As Moscow is relatively far from the coast, there is a pronounced continental climate. It is hot in summer and cold in winter.

In addition, global warming is there. For several decades, annual average temperatures have always been recorded above the past. I suggest you look at the averages over the past five years to be as close as possible to reality:

Sunshine and precipitation

Sunshine. This is surprising, but there is more sunshine in Moscow than in Paris or even in Berlin: 1,731 hours in Moscow, compared to 1661 in Paris and 1626 in Berlin.

Duration of the day in winter. We had questions about the length of the day in winter. So, here are a few things. As in Europe, the shortest days are in December. In Moscow, at the end of December, the sun rises around 9 a.m. and sets around 4 p.m. Then the day gets bigger until the end of June, when the day is the longest.

Precipitation. There is more precipitation in Moscow than in Paris (705mm against 637mm).

When is the best time to visit Moscow: interesting events

Moscow is a city that moves a lot. It is even said that this city never sleeps. So there are a lot of events, forums, exhibitions, conferences. Here I’m going to talk about the main recurring events that punctuate the year and that may help you decide when to go to Moscow.

End of year celebrations in Moscow

December 31 rather than Christmas. The Russians are eagerly awaiting the holiday season. Here on December 31 is like Christmas with us. Religion, “opium of the people” according to Marx, and, above all, its official absence marked the country during the Soviet years. This then reinforced the celebration of December 31, while Orthodox Christmas is January 7.

Russian calendar. In addition, it should be known that the first week of January is a bank holiday. Many Russians therefore do not work during this period. Europe also greatly influences the habits of Muscovites. Consequently, the Christmas markets start in early December and, for some, continue until early February!

Fairytale atmosphere. If you are wondering when to go to Moscow and you love the holiday mood, then the end of December – early January, and even February, is for you! There are many things to do during this time: for example, Christmas markets, decorations, winter games, skating rinks. In 2016, Moscow opened the largest ice rink in Europe. In short, the city is doing a lot of entertainment during this period and the general atmosphere is at the top! However, everything comes at a cost. You can see more detail below in the article, month by month.

Find our more in this blog post: Christmas and New Year in Moscow .

Visit Moscow in May

May 1 and 9 are two big festivals in Russia. Both dates are known worldwide. May 9 in Russia is May 8 with us in France. The signature that marks the end of the Second World War. The shift day is explained by … the difference in time zone.

The May 9 holiday is a very important holiday for the Russians. The Soviet human losses amounted to millions. So there are many families who have been directly affected by the war. The first big parade was organized by Stalin on June 24, 1945 in Red Square in Moscow. Later each year the USSR and then Russia organized a parade on May 9. Here is the video of the first parade dating from 1945 in color, then the last – that of 2016.

A disadvantage of the beginning of May. For the planned events, Red Square will not be completely empty. There are always installations for May 9, but also rehearsals. So, to the question “when is the best time to visit Moscow”, I would not say that May is the best one. You can find out more in the article “Moscow in autumn” below.

Throughout the year, the Moscow City Hall organizes free events (festivals, small markets, concerts, etc.) in the Red Square and in the streets of the city center. For example, there are two major interesting events:

• Festival of Lights “Around the World”: in 2019, it was from September 28 to October 4.
• Anniversary of the city of Moscow always celebrated the first weekend of September.

When is the best time to visit Moscow: budget, price seasonality, visa

Most touristy periods. Many travelers come to Moscow from May to October. This is the period when we see the most tourists in Moscow. In addition, many are also those who come at the end of December and at the beginning of January for the New Year. The beginning of May and the first week of January are also strongly requested, in particular by the Russians (school holidays, public holidays).

Accommodation. Hotel rates therefore necessarily increase during these periods of the year. But they do not go so far as to triple. To give an idea, count at least 80 euros in the city center for a double room with breakfast. You can read more about the districts of Moscow in my article: Where to stay in Moscow?

Guides and tours. Also take into account that during these periods it will be more difficult to find a guide at the last moment. It’s best to do it 2-3 months in advance. There will be more waiting or difficulty obtaining tickets during the months of high tourist influx: late December, early January, May, June, July, August.

Visa for Russia. The cost of the visa does not change depending on the month of the year. On the other hand, the deadlines can be longer if you make the request for the high tourist season (from May to October). Allow about a month. Getting the Russian visa is not complicated, there is a procedure to follow.

In Russia, the seasons are divided as follows:

• Fall: September, October, November.
• Winter: December, January, February.
• Spring: March, April, May.
• Summer: June, July, August.

Discover Moscow in autumn: when is the best time to visit Moscow in autumn?

From the beginning of September, we feel that the temperatures begin to drop gradually, especially at night.

Moscow in September

More and more travelers are choosing the month of September to go to Moscow. Because it is not cold yet and there are fewer tourists than in summer. Prices drop slightly, but remain higher than in the lean months of the year. There is also the city’s birthday on the first weekend in September, but also the “Around the World” festival towards the end of the month.

Moscow in October

You are likely to come across the colors of autumn from the beginning of October. The accommodation prices are starting to drop gradually. There is less waiting in the places to visit. Temperatures are not very low: during the day they are generally around +6 degrees. On the other hand, the only negative point can be the cost of plane tickets, if you leave during the French school holidays.

Moscow in November

It’s one of the least calm! Temperatures drop and can approach zero during the day in mid-November. Hotel rates are low, there are few tourists, and therefore less waiting in museums. It’s easier to get tickets for the Kremlin Palace of Armor, which can be very difficult in the summer. Guides also have more availability. So why not go to Moscow in November?

Discover Moscow in winter: when is the best time to visit Moscow in winter?

Winter is a very nice time to go to Moscow, because the Christmas and New Year decorations are installed from the beginning of December and are not removed until the end of February. To learn more about the different activities in winter, read this article: What to do in Moscow in winter? If winter temperatures scare you, check out Moscow in the spring (see below).

Moscow in december

Normally, negative daytime temperatures set in, although the weather can vary significantly from year to year. In general, from mid-December the snow is durable. It is from December 20 that more and more travelers come to Moscow. December 31st is celebrated like Christmas in France. Accommodation rates are higher from mid-December. It’s also more complicated to find a guide at the last moment. Furthermore, as in Europe, the days of December are the shortest of the year. But if you want to mark New Years Day, you will have lots of memories!

Moscow in january

January is also a very festive month. The first week of January is a public holiday in Russia. Besides, it’s also a week of Russian school holidays. There are more people in the streets, museums and everywhere in the city. To find out more about this time of year (Christmas markets, itineraries, etc.), read: Christmas and New Years in Moscow . Prices remain high during this week, but drop from mid-January.

Moscow in February

It’s the second quietest month of the year. In February, winter clearly takes its ease. The temperatures are the lowest, it’s a real winter! The days are longer in February than in December. So we’re enjoying the day more, and with the snow it’s really nice, because the weather in Moscow in February is pretty sunny. Accommodation rates are at their lowest, and the decorations are still there. So, if you are looking for when to go to Moscow, if the cold does not scare you and you appreciate the snowy landscapes, why not consider the month of February?

Discover Moscow in spring: when is the best time to visit Moscow in spring?

Spring is a contrasting period between March, which is still quite cold, and May, when we really feel the arrival of summer.

Moscow in March

The ice and snow begin to melt around mid-March. Winter is coming in March, but spring is not quite there yet. It’s the third quietest month of the year. It is therefore possible to visit the city more quietly. Accommodation prices are low, guides are available. The weather in Moscow in March is milder than in February. In addition, the days are longer, so you can take many walks.

Moscow in April

It is only from mid-April that we begin to feel the beginnings of sunny days. The weather in Moscow in spring and April in particular is getting milder and colder: we can expect +7 during the day. In addition, there are not many travelers yet and we fear to enjoy the places more quietly, but we feel that the start of the tourist season is approaching. Accommodation rates are lower than in May.

Moscow in May

The early May holidays attract many travelers to Moscow. There are also many Russians who come to the capital on public holidays. It is therefore advisable to plan visits in advance to avoid queuing once there. Red Square can be closed or partially closed for rehearsals for the May 9 parade, the same day and one or two days after. More info in: Moscow in May: events, budget, what to do?

Discover Moscow in summer: when is the best time to visit Moscow in summer?

All summer months are great, if you take temperatures into account. The weather in Moscow in summer is quite pleasant. However, in recent years, there have been great heat peaks or heat waves in July (30 degrees during the day).

Moscow in June

From June, you can take long walks in the city’s parks, very numerous and much appreciated by the locals. Boat trips are more enjoyable from June. On the other hand, the prices of accommodation in Moscow are higher than in the lean months. There are also more tourists. Book your hotel, tours and activities in advance.

Moscow in july

July is the hottest month, but we’re not on +40. Moscow is a city inland and therefore there is little fresh air, if it is very hot. We can do lots of walks to discover the city. We have written several complete itineraries so as not to miss anything of Moscow in our special Moscow travel guide. It also contains tips to save time and enjoy the city off the beaten track, as there are so many tourists during this time of year.

Moscow in August

Temperatures are starting to drop gradually, but there are still so many people. In order to be sure of the choice of accommodation, I advise you to book in advance. The same goes for guided tours or entrance tickets to the Kremlin. It’s also a good time to discover the city differently by going to places that are less touristy and more frequented by locals.

When is the best time to go to Moscow? In summary!

The best time to discover Moscow depends on the criteria you want to favor: the weather, the budget, the tranquility of the visits, the special events to be experienced on site.

In summary:

• The peak tourist season in Moscow begins in early May and ends in late September.
• Late December and early January is the best time to experience the holiday mood, but it comes at a cost.
• End of January, February, March, beginning of April, November are the quietest months of the year, when you can visit the city more calmly and on a reduced budget.

So, have you decided when to go to Moscow? 🙂 Do you plan to visit Moscow in spring, summer, autumn or winter?

Travel idea! As in all cases you will get a visa and there is only 4 hours by train between Moscow and Saint Petersburg, why not visit both cities? Read an example of a route here: Moscow to Saint Petersburg in one week.

If you still have doubts, take a look at what you can visit in Moscow in order to choose the best period: Things to do in Moscow in 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 days.

For a great trip to Moscow:

• Visit Moscow and St Petersburg in one week: itinerary
• Where to stay in Moscow?
• Tourist voucher for Russian visa

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

Featured city guides.

Shooter Files by f.d. walker

Street Photography Tips, Interaction, Travel, Guides

Apr 24 2017

City Street Guides by f.d. walker: A Street Photography Guide to Moscow, Russia

*A series of guides on shooting Street Photography in cities around the world. Find the best spots to shoot, things to capture, street walks, street tips, safety concerns, and more for cities around the world. I have personally researched, explored and shot Street Photography in every city that I create a guide for. So you can be ready to capture the streets as soon as you step outside with your camera!

At over 12 million people, Moscow is the largest city in Russia and second largest in Europe by population ( Istanbul is #1). An urban, cosmopolitan metropolis with more than enough glitz and glam to cater to the elite, but without losing its fair share of Soviet era roughness around the edges. It can be fast paced, brash, busy, and trendy like other big cities, but it has its blend of West meets Russia atmosphere and beauty that provides plenty of unique interest. The Red Square is as famous as it gets, but there’s so much more to this city, including the most beautiful subway system you’ve ever seen. It would take years to capture all of Moscow, but that means you have an endless amount of areas to discover.

So here’s a Street Photography guide so you can be ready to capture all that Moscow has to offer before you even arrive!

• Patriarch’s Pond
• Old Arbat Street
• Maroseyka Street
• Tverskoy Boulevard

Top 5 Street Spots:

1. red square.

The Red Square is the most famous square in not just Russia, but all of Eastern Europe. The name actually doesn’t come from the color of the bricks or communism, but from the name in Russian, Krásnaya, once meaning “beautiful” before its meaning changed to “red.” This large plaza is what you see on the cover of guide books and magazines for Moscow, with St. Basil’s Cathedral being the center piece next to Lenin’s Mausoleum surrounded by the Kremlin Wall. Of course, the Red Square attracts hordes of tourist due to the main attractions, but all that activity around an interesting atmosphere does provide street photo opportunities. It’s also the central square connecting to the city’s major streets, providing a good starting point to explore outward.

You’ll also find the popular pedestrian only Nikolskaya Street connecting the Red Square to Lubyanka Square. This line of expensive shops includes plenty of activity, while also leading you to another popular square. Filled with history rivaling any city, the Red Square and surrounding areas are the heart and soul of Russia.

2. Patriarch’s Ponds

Patriarch’s Ponds is one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Moscow. Despite the name being plural, there’s only one large pond, but it’s worth a visit with your camera. It’s a popular spot for locals and expats to come relax or take a stroll around the pond. You get an interesting mix of young and old too, from young love to “babushkas” feeding pigeons. It’s a very peaceful park atmosphere in one of the nicer areas within the city center, while bringing enough activity for street photography. 

The pond is shallow and in the winter becomes a popular spot for ice-skating too. The area is also well-known for the location in the famous Russian novel, The Master and Margarita. 

3. Old Arbat (Stary Arbat)

Old Arbat is the most famous pedestrian street in Moscow, and dating back to the 15th century, also one of its oldest. Originally, it was an area of trade, but soon became the most prestigious residential area in Moscow. During the 18th century, Arbat started attracting the city’s scholars and artists, including Alexander Pushkin. Cafes lined the streets and impressive homes filled the neighborhood. Since then, New Arbat street was created as a highway in the area, while Old Arbat was paved for a 1km pedestrian only walkway.

Due to the historic buildings, famous artists that lived here, and the bohemian atmosphere, Old Arbat has become a big attraction for tourists today. Now, there’s a mix of cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, street performers, street merchants and other attractions for visitors, and some locals, to come enjoy. It can get really busy here and there’s usually something interesting going on so it’s a good street to come walk with your camera for guaranteed life.

4. Gorky Park

One of the most famous places in Moscow is Gorky Park. The official name is Maxim Gorky’s Central Park of Culture & Leisure, which gives you an idea of what goes on here. When built, it was the first of its kind in the Soviet Union. Divided into two parts, it stretches along Moscow River. One end contains fair rides, foods stands, tennis courts, a sports club, a lake for boat rides, and more. This end brings more active life due to its number of attractions, while the other end is more relaxed, where you’ll find gardens, trees, older buildings, and an outdoor amphitheater.

Gorky Park attracts mostly locals so it’s a good spot to capture the non-tourist side of Moscow life. Muscovites come here to escape the city and unwind in a picturesque setting. The park remains alive outside of the warmer months too, especially when the lake turns into the city’s largest outdoor skating rink. I’d recommend taking the metro out here to spend at least half a day exploring the massive park’s life with your camera.

5. Maroseyka Street

Maroseyka Street is a popular area not too far from the Red Square. The long, winding street turns into Pokrovka and is lined with restaurants, cafes, bars and places to stay. It’s actually where I like to stay when I’m in Moscow due to its location and solid street photography opportunities itself. You have Kitay-gorod station near and if you keep walking southwest, you’ll get to the Red Square. But if you walk northwest, as it changes to Pokrovka, you can find a long street of activity for photography with its own interesting atmosphere.

6. Tverskoy Boulevard

Tverskoy Boulevard is the oldest and longest boulevard in Moscow, beginning at the end of Nikitsky Boulevard, and finishing at Pushkin Square, a spot to come for activity itself. The boulevard is made up of two avenues, with pedestrian walkways in-between. You’ll find grass, shrubbery, trees, benches and more walking it’s almost kilometer length. Many people come here to enjoy some relaxation, walk their dog, or just to use it to walk wherever they’re going. Its center location also provides a nice place to walk with your camera near plenty of other spots you’ll want to check out anyway.

Sample Street Walk:

For a full day of Street Photography, covering some of the best spots, you can follow this sample street walk for Moscow:

• Start your morning walking around the Red Square (1), while exploring the surrounding area, including Nikolskaya Street
• Then walk northwest to Patriarch’s Ponds (2) and slowly walk the pond and surrounding area with your camera
• Next, walk east to the Pushkin Monument and stroll down Tverskoy Boulevard (6)
• Once Tverskoy Boulevard (6) ends, it will turn into Nikitsky Boulevard. Follow this down until you get to the start of Old Arbat Street (3), across from Arbatskaya station
• After you’re done walking down Old Arbat Street (3) for more street photography, spend some time checking out Moscow’s beautiful metro stations
• To finish off the day with more street photography, get off the metro near Red Square (1) again, Maroseyka Street (5) or wherever you’re staying for the night.

3 Things I’ll Remember about Shooting in Moscow:

1. museum metro.

The Moscow metro system was the first underground railway system in the Soviet Union and today includes 203 stations across 340km of routes. The elaborate system has some of the deepest stations in the world too, with escalators that seem to go on forever. None of this is what makes it so special, though. Many of its stations feel like stepping inside a museum, making it without a doubt the most interesting and beautiful metro system I’ve been in.

When built, Stalin wanted to make the metro stations “palaces for the people” with marble, chandeliers, and grand architecture. The best part is the variety of architecture and styles used, making many of the stations a completely different experience visually. You could easily spend a whole day traveling the stations and there are even tours available for people who wish to do just that. My advice, though, would be just to buy a ticket and hop on and off at different stations, while exploring different lines. The museum-like surrounding mixed with the crowds of characters can make for a great photography experience.

Since there are so many stations, here are some of my favorites to check out:

• Novoslobodskaya
• Mayakovskaya
• Elektrozavodskaya
• Komsomolskaya
• Ploschad Revolyutsii
• Dostoyevskaya
• Prospekt Mira

2. Moscow is Big

It’s no secret that Moscow is a big city, but it can feel even bigger with how spread out much of it is. This is especially true if you compare it to cities outside of Asia. If I compared it to cities in Europe, I’d probably say only Istanbul would warrant more time to really discover the depths of this city. Most only explore around the Red Square and surrounding area, but that is such a small part of the city. Although, that central area does give you plenty to see on its own.

Fortunately, I had a good friend living in the city to show me around, but it opened up my eyes even more to how much there is to discover in Moscow. It’s a big city with a variety of atmosphere that can take you from “east” to “west” and trendy to rugged depending on where you go. I’d imagine you’d have to live here a while to really know the city.

3. Cosmopolitan Mix of East meets West

Modern skyscrapers mixed with amazing architecture, a world-class metro system with museum-like beauty, trendy fashion and chic clubs, Moscow is a rich mix of Russian culture and history in a more western cosmopolitan package. There is a push to keep the Russian culture, while also pushing forward with a modern metropolis the whole world will envy. This comes with an impressive skyline, that continues to grow, and endless modernities, but with soviet nostalgia and atmosphere mixed in for good measure.

Mixed in with this grand western cosmopolitan atmosphere, is a strong national pride in Russia. This includes their famous leader, Vladimir Putin. Maybe no other place will you see a country’s leader more often. All over, from the pricey tourist shops to the underground walkway stalls, you’ll find goods with Putin’s likeness covering them. From t-shirts to magnets to Matryoshka dolls. There’s a strong national pride that can be seen around the city, which also extends to their leader. Moscow is many things. It’s East meets West, modernizations meets Soviet era, and a whole lot more.

What To Do For a Street Photography Break?:

Eat at a stolovaya.

Stolovayas are Russian cafeterias that became popular in the Soviet days. You grab a tray and walk down the line of freshly prepared local dishes, and select whatever you want from the chefs. They’re usually inexpensive and a much better value than restaurants, while giving you the opportunity to try from a wide selection of everyday Russian food. They’re also very tasty. I always include some borsch on my tray and go from there. The places themselves are all over Moscow and usually come with Soviet-era aesthetics to complete the experience.

Street Safety Score: 7

*As always, no place is completely safe! So when I talk about safety, I’m speaking in general comparison to other places. Always take precaution, be smart, observe your surroundings and trust your instincts anywhere you go!

Being the 2nd largest city in Europe with over 12 million people, you’re going to have your dangerous areas, but for the most part, it feels safe walking around. Russia is statistically higher in crime compared to most of Europe, but this generally doesn’t apply to tourists and visitors. Around the Red Square and surrounding city center, you should feel completely safe walking around. Pick pocketing can happen, but no more than other touristic places. I always explore Moscow freely without coming across too much to worry about. It’s a spread out city, though, so of course it matters where you are. Just use basic street smarts, know where you are and Moscow shouldn’t give you a problem. 

People’s Reaction Score: 7

Moscow is fast paced, big city life, which usually means people aren’t too concerned with you, or your camera. I don’t find people notice or pay much attention to me when I’m out taking photos in Moscow. For the most part, people just go about their day. You shouldn’t get too many looks or concern. But it can depend on the area you are in. The more you stick out, the more you might get noticed with suspicions. I’ve never had any problems in Moscow, or Russia, but just be careful who you’re taking a photo of if you get out of the city center. Other than that, it’s about average for reactions. 

Street Tips:

Learn the alphabet .

Much of Moscow, including the metro system, doesn’t use english. The Russian alphabet uses letters from the Cyrillic script, which if you aren’t familiar with it and don’t know the sounds, can be hard to decipher the words. This is most important for street names and metro stops when trying to get around. It can save confusion and make it easier getting around if you learn the basic alphabet. At the very least then, you can sound out the words to see which are similar in the english conversion, which can help matching them to maps. When out shooting street photography, getting around is as important as anything. So save yourself some time and frustration by learning the Russian Alphabet.

Use the metro

While Saint-Petersburg feels very walkable for a city its size, Moscow can feel very spread out, even for its bigger size. Outside of the Red Square area, you can have plenty of walking before getting anywhere very interesting, so you’ll need to take the metro a lot if you really want to explore the city. Maps are deceiving here too, it will always be further than it looks.

Another reason it’s less walkable than Saint-Petersburg is its completely different set-up. Moscow’s streets are mostly contstructed in rings with narrow, winding streets in-between. This is common with medieval city cities that used to be confined by walls, but you usually don’t have it in a city this massive. Saint-Petersburg has a more grid-like pattern that also uses the canals to help you know your way around. When it comes to navigating on foot in Moscow, it can be more difficult, so bring a map and take the metro when needed. It’s why Moscow’s metro carries more passengers per day than the London and Paris subways combined.

Explore other areas if you have time

Moscow is really big. While most people stay around the Red Square within the Boulevard Ring, there’s so much more to the city. I covered some other spots outside of this circle, but if you really want to see the city, you’ll need time. If you do have time, some other areas I’d check out first are Zamoskvarechye, along some of the south and western Moscow.

Inspiration:

For some more inspiration, you can look through the Street Photography of Moscow photographer Artem Zhitenev  and check out 33 of my photos taken in Moscow .

Conclusion:

Moscow’s name brings a certain mystique, but once you’re there it might bring a different atmosphere than you expect. It’s big and sprawling, but beautiful in many ways. It can feel like a European capital on a grand scale, but you can definitely find its Russian side in there.

The urban sprawl of Moscow can be intimidating, but give it enough time and you’ll be rewarded with plenty to discover. All with the world’s best metro system to take you around.

I hope this guide can help you start to experience some of what Moscow contains. So grab your camera and capture all that Moscow has to offer for Street Photography!

If you still have any questions about shooting in Moscow, feel free to comment below or email me!

(I want to make these guides as valuable as possible for all of you so add any ideas on improvements, including addition requests, in the comment section!)

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(A New Guide Posted Every Other Wednesday)

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