travel times barovia

Travel Times

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The path out of the village eventually changes from the now-familiar gravel road to one of dirt, the gravel simply coming to an end. Pools of water stand like dark mirrors in and around the muddy roadway, reflecting the dense blanket of clouds above. As you travel south along the dirt road, a dense wall of towering trees follows with you to the northwest, and beyond them, Castle Ravenloft still looms large overhead. To the southeast, the land stretches out flat, covered and slightly hidden beneath a veil of fog. As you continue, you find yourselves approaching a large stone bridge arching over a wide river of clear blue water that sprawls out to the east and west as far as you can see and, just beyond the bridge, you see that the trees close in on the path ahead.

On Travel [ ]

The average Barovian is loathe to leave their own home, nevermind the confines of their settlements. Those that do will keep to the roads, and primarily Old Svalich Road, which passes through the whole of Barovia, east to west. Though nowhere in Barovia is "safe," the woods and mountains provide far greater danger, even one as mundane as getting lost, and the ruins throughout Barovia are considered an even greater risk. Hunters and foragers are among the select few who willingly risk the wilderness, though many minions of Strahd are known to make these regions their home.

Sample Travel Times [ ]

• From the Village of Barovia to River Ivlis Crossroads: 1 hour. 
• From the Village of Barovia to Vallaki: 5 hours, 45 minutes.
• From the Western Gate to Vallaki: 2 hours, 30 minutes.
• From the Western Gate to Castle Ravenloft: 1 hour.
• From Vallaki to Krezk: 2 hours, 25 minutes.
• From the Village of Barovia to Krezk: 8 hours, 10 minutes.
• From Tser Pool to Tser Falls: 25 minutes.
• From the Luna River Crossroads to the Raven River Crossroads: 1 hour, 30 minutes
• From Krezk to the Wizard of Wines winery: 1 hour, 45 minutes.
• 1 The Martikov Family
• 2 Ismark Kolyanovich
• 3 Gadof Blinsky

Traveling in Barovia – Extra Encounters

The GUIDE index for Curse of Strahd and other related articles can be found here !

The Valley of Barovia is a secluded place. A part of the world that was torn apart and set inside small demiplane when Strahd Von Zarovich killed his brother Sergei, thus sealing the blood pact with the Dark Powers. With Strahd’s permission a person can enter or exit Barovia. As you know, the borders of the valley are marked by a thick mist that no one can cross to exit, unless Strahd wills it. He cannot leave either, that’s his curse. The only ones who can travel in or out of Barovia are the Vistani, since Strahd owes them that liberty due to a centuries old pact.

Though Strahd is evil and apparently has no care for his subjects. He is still the lord of the land. If he was an evil psycho everyone would be dead already. After centuries of being trapped inside Barovia, Strahd and his allies could have eradicated everyone already. However, this is not so. Even the villages of Barovia have appointed Burgomasters who are part of Barovian noble families. The Indirovich, Vallakovich and Krezkov families have been in power since forever, Strahd appointed their ancestors to rule over those villages and has let them do so until the present. Even when the last remaining son of Baron Dimitri Krezkov died of sickness, it is vaguely implied that Strahd sent The Abbot to raise him so that the bloodline was not lost. I infer that there are two reasons for these occurrences.

The first one is: Strahd is from noble birth and the lord of the land, and although he is not a protector of Barovia, he does enjoy his position of power. There would be no power in a land with no subjects to rule. The second reason is his “lawful” alignment predisposition. Just as he respects the old pact with the Vistani, he respects the appointments of the different Burgomasters and their families’ nobility.

Going back to what I just mentioned, Strahd is NOT a protector of this land. It is his land. He is the land. And as a direct projection of his own disposition and personality, the land is dangerous. It’s hard to judge by just looking at the map, but Barovia is not a big place. Each hex in the map equals 1/4 mile. According to the DMG (page 242), the standard travel speed is 24 miles a day in normal conditions. Then an adventuring party can move up to 12 hexes in an hour (3 miles). Trying to count more than that doesn’t seem practical, there’s over 80 hexes from the Village of Barovia to Vallaki, still that trip takes 5.8 hours (17.4 miles). Travel is still extremely dangerous; the book sets the bar at rolling for outdoors random encounters every hour. Not all encounters are battles, some of them are just things that can happen or thing to be found.

The Village of Barovia is unprotected from outside forces and that’s why the population is so small, and has been decreasing over the years. Vallaki has a palisade that helps keep some of Strahd’s creatures like wolves and minor undead at bay. Krezk has a stone wall and the Abbey. This is the most defensible town, but they lack fighting people. A common theme for Barovians is that they do not go outside of the villages if they can help it. Only a few individuals dare travel the open lands of Barovia. Most people are born and die in the same place. An example of this is Ismark and Ireena who are both nobles, have souls and probably a better education than most, yet none of them have ever gone out of the Village of Barovia when the adventure begins. Vistani are the exception.

The Martikovs are probably the only ones who travel often the roads of Barovia. After all they are the only source of wine in the region and it is stated that they deliver to the three villages free of cost.

This is a table of travel times between the most important places in he valley. Some places were left out for space and convenience. What’s most important here are the distances between the villages, the castle and a few other points of interest. It is assumed the party is traveling at normal pace and the figures are expressed in hours of travel. If you need to calculate the distance in miles, just multiply the number by 3 (which is how many miles the party moves in an hour).

Extra Random Encounters

What’s next is a list of extra encounters the party can come across while they go from place to place. Some of them are battle encounters, others are just strange finding and a few of them include Count Strahd.

1.- Lost child: The party finds a young child sleeping in the open next to a tree. The child is sickly from being in the open and starved. The child comes from Vallaki and tells the story of an old lady that came and took him and his sister from their house in Vallaki. He escaped and tried to go home and ask for help, but got lost. His sister is captive of the three hags in Old Bonegrinder.

2.- Crippled Lumberjack: Deneth, a lumberjack from Vallaki was attacked by wolves during the night. He managed to scare them off. They bit off his foot and ran away at dawn. He can’t walk without aid and asks for help in returning to the village. Optional: Deneth can also be a werewolf posing as an innocent person, he’s just baiting the party. He waits for the best moment, when they are at their weakest to howl at the moon and attack. His pack is nearby.

3.- Are you dead?: This encounter assumes that a party member was charmed by Strahd during the night, then impersonated by him. The next day, the party comes across a small stone mausoleum. Inside, they find an old stone sarcophagus. There are signs of recent activity here. If the sarcophagus is opened, the charmed party members lays inside, apparently dead ( Feign Dead spell). This alone should become a full party argument. When you judge appropriate, Strahd reveals himself and fights them for a few rounds before turning to mist with an evil laugh. It’s all a ruse, since the “dead” PC is just a pawn in this joke.

4.- What did this?: The party finds odd foot prints. They appear to be those of a goat, except they are too big. There’s also evidence of a long tail being dragged. After following the trail, they find the carcasses of two deer. Both have a puncture injury similar to that of a spear. What’s disturbing is that both carcasses are dried out, as if all liquid and hydration had been sucked from them through the puncture point. After a few meters the monster’s trail simple disappears. Does it fly?

5.- Quake !!! During a rest outdoors, the ground vibrates for a minute. Then suddenly a powerful force breaks the ground open. A scar marks the land as it tears open. Have any PC close to the opening roll a Dexterity save (DC 13). A fail means the PC falls through the opening 30 ft. (3d6 damage). They fall in a cavern chamber that has one or more openings leading out from it (your choice). This is good to introduce a small dungeon or undead encounter.

6.- Cursed Barovians: While traveling near the sunset, the party catches up with a group of 3 Barovians traveling in the same direction. They explain they are merchants and may show them their wares. The hold a secret, they visited the Amber Temple and accepted a Dark Gift. They appear human but they are now a form of ghoul and can only find nourishment from eating man flesh. When sun sets, their true form is revealed and they attack.

7.- Save the horse: The party hears the anguished neighs of a horse nearby and wolves howling. After investigating they find a poor horse trying to scare of a pack of wolves. While dealing with the wolves, the horse suddenly transforms into a giant spider, dire wolf or similar creature and attacks. This is Strahd himself assessing the PCs strengths.

8.- Insurrection: The party is approached by a mob of Barovians on the road. These are villagers from Vallaki armed with sickles and torches. They ventured out in search of two villagers who were expelled from Vallaki by the Burgomaster Vargas Vallakovich for “Malicious Unhappiness”. Only one of the villagers was found, the other was probably eaten by wolves. They are now going back to Vallaki in full-insurrection mode. Izek Strazni and the guard are ready to repel any rebels from returning to town. If the party defuses the mood, then the villagers are let back inside with no trouble.

9.- Old man: Near the road there is an old man eating something close to the fire. He invites the adventurers to have a bite with him. He’s an old Vistana traveling west alone. His intention is to reach Krezk and then exit Barovia there. He can tell a good story: he was there one year ago when the foreign wizard (Mordenkainen) rallied the peoples of Barovia against Strahd. After the wizard was defeated and thrown down the cliffs of Ravenloft, he was the first to climb down there with a friend, to find the man’s possessions. They did not find Mordenkainen but they found his spell book. As they couldn’t read it they decided to sell it, however they were attacked that night by living scarecrows. His friend died during the conflict before he decided to hand out the book. An old ugly lady came out from the darkness and took the book (This is Baba Lysaga).

10.- Burial: The party comes across a scene of battle on the road between settlements. There’s an upturned cart, two dead horses and some Barovians killed by some type of big beast. No treasure is found. Important for this encounter is to have a relevant NPC that the party knows dead here. It could be Rictavio, Ezmeralda, a Martikov, a priest, Blinsky. The party will mourn the loss of the acquaintance an maybe bury them. When they next return to the appropriate village, said NPC is alive. Whether the battle scene was an illusion or the NPC is Strahd impersonating him is your choice.

11.- Sick Elf: Sitting by a tree is a dusk elf. He’s alone and sick. He can barely speak and is delirious. Whatever happened to him, he cannot be helped and will die soon. He carries a traveling bag, it is full of bones, and body parts from humans. If dissected, there’s human bones and flesh in his belly.

12.- Save us: A group of scared Barovians from Vallaki are running towards the party. They ask for protection, as they are being followed and their pursuers won’t stop until they are caught. A few minutes later, unless the party does something to avoid it, arrives Izek Strazni with 5 guards on horseback. They wish to arrest the fugitives to be put on the stocks in Vallaki for not following the Burgomaster’s orders.

13.- The dark lord’s hand: Going in the opposite direction as the party is Rahadin on horseback. He is traveling to the Amber Temple or one of the villages. If the party have not encountered him before, he introduces himself as Strahd’s right hand and welcomes them to Barovia. He will warn them against trying to visit the castle unless invited. If the party have already met Rahadin then what happens will depend on that first encounter. A battle may very well ensue.

14.- Knight’s unrest: The ghost of a man in scale armor approaches the PCs during the night. It is not aggressive and asks for help. He explains that he belonged to the Order of the Silver Dragon a very long time ago. One day he was ambushed while night traveling by a group of undead. He died that day. If his remains are recovered and taken to Argynvostholt he will be able to rest. He remained a ghost because he was traveling to the mansion after the main rally to oppose Strahd’s forces. Not being able to join his brothers in arms is a torment that never let him rest. He is unaware that the order doesn’t exist anymore. He can also tell stories about the order but will not reveal Argynvost’s true nature because that was a secret only known by anointed knights.

15.- Vallaki’s heir:  The party hears a voice and strange sounds in the wild. From afar they can see a young man in heavy coat. He appears to be training cats, when approached, it is clear the cats are undead. Victor Vallakovich is trying to see if his undead cats still possess their hunting abilities. He’s also searching for rare herbs and ingredients for his experiments.

16.- Get out of the way: Coming from behind the party is a black carriage pulled by 2 great black horses. The carriage comes at full speed. The party will have to get out of the way or be trampled by Strahd’s carriage. If stopped or attacked, Strahd attacks with full force for a few rounds before disappearing. Alternatively, he fights full force until possibly being defeated by a higher level party. It doesn’t matter to him to lose like this, he can reform later on. It’s also important to him to assess the full strength of the party.

17.- Lost travelers:  A group of travelers from Daggerford (or any settlement outside Barovia really) stumbled upon the mists the previous day. They have no knowledge of Barovia and are looking for the nearest settlement. This is a good way to introduce a merchant with wares from outside the valley or to introduce an NPC related to someone’s background (cheesy I know).

18.- The Circle: Strahd is watching from a tree. He casts a Wall of Fire spell in circle form and encloses the PCs in it. The ground erupts as Strahd Zombies , Ghouls , Skeletons or any other creatures of appropriate CR for the party come out and attack. For added difficulty, Strahd shoots spells from the tree or charms a PC.

19.- Lost shipment:  Recent cart tracks on the road suddenly go off it and into the woods. There are also wolf tracks. After following the trail, the party finds an abandoned horse cart loaded with several caskets and barrels of wine. Horses are gone. The cart appears to have been here for a week. Alternatively one or more of the wine barrels were poisoned by the twig blights .

20.- Unicorn:  From the trees emerges a beautiful white horse. A warm light emanates from it’s body. A golden horn protruding from its white forehead. Radael is an unicorn passing through Barovia. It is one of the few creatures that can’t be bound by the mists. Unicorns are free to exit the valley. It can’t however help other people exit Barovia, either by riding him or by teleporting with him, it just doesn’t work. The unicorn can bring news from the outside world. This is a great encounter for good aligned parties, specially meaningful if the unicorn can heal a party member from the effects of poison or disease. It offers his teleportation ability within the valley. Radael knows he cannot help them get out.

Make sure you follow the rest of this Curse of Strahd DM Guide

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7 thoughts on “ Traveling in Barovia – Extra Encounters ”

June 18, 2017 at 4:16 am Reply

How can unicorns exit the valles?

June 18, 2017 at 4:18 am Reply

They don’t originally. I wrote that the unicorn is just passing through.

October 12, 2018 at 1:29 am Reply

For “What did this?” is there a creature from the Curse of Strahd hardcover you had in mind here, or is it left up to the imagination of each individual DM to pick their own creature? Totally fine with the latter, but was curious if it was the former.

October 12, 2018 at 1:32 am Reply

I live in Mexico and I was thinking about our depiction of the chupacabras. It’s a supposed monster that eats livestock by puncturing them and sucking out all moisture from them.

November 5, 2021 at 3:01 am Reply

Oo! I love the legends of Chupacabra! I’m convinced that the Puerto Rican goat sucker are those giant vampire bats that modern day science keeps trying to convince us are extinct.

Modern day Mexican / Southwest accounts of Chupacabra are almost certainly naked raccoons (with mange).. however, the few breadcrumbs of early Mexican legends about Chupacabra I’ve been able to find don’t fit the ‘naked raccoon’ profile at all. For one, raccoons don’t roost in high locations to dive and attack people, and they certainly don’t go vampire mode on livestock (unless you count ripping off chickens heads).

I’m convinced that there is a cryptozoological entity (unidentified ‘monster’) behind the Chupacabra that might actually be going extinct, if it isn’t already. The sources I’ve seen all refer to ancient legend, then flop over and describe what people are seeing today.. which generally sounds like a raccoon with mange.

Are you aware of any old school books or literature about Chupacabra that predates modern legends? I’ve hit a brick wall up here in the U.S. but I’m sure there should be some source of info somewhere in Latin American that isn’t readily available here. At least I HOPE there is.:/

November 14, 2021 at 11:15 am Reply

I’m Mexican and the chupacabras is just part of the folklore. I cannot substantiate it, but there is another creature in Mexican-pre-hispanic culture of a creature known as the “nahual”, traditionally, its a persona with the power to shapeshift into animals and hybrid animal forms. Maybe you could look into the nahuals and the lore around them.

October 2, 2020 at 10:27 pm Reply

This is so great!!! I love the fake dead PC encounter, my party is going to flip!

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Curse of Strahd: Master Quest

Travel in barovia.

Custom: It's the transition of Autumn into Winter. The sun rises at 8 a.m. and sets at 5 p.m.

• Each hex on the map is considered 1/4 mile .
• Lake Zarovich is ~1 mile wide and 5 miles long.
• Rowboats travel at 1.5mph and can carry 4 people.
• Regardless of hex count, the distance from Raven River Crossroads to Tsolenka Pass is written as being 7 miles.

Always check for encounters when reaching these locations:

• (F) River Ivlis Crossroads
• (P) Luna River Crossroads
• (R) Raven River Crossroads

Anything marked (difficult) is a less-travelled trail, and the party moves at half speed.

Eastern Barovia

Western barovia.

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D&D 5E   Curse of Strahd: Travel time in Barovia (minor spoilers)

• Thread starter JoshR
• Start date Mar 23, 2016
• Mar 23, 2016

How long would it take a party to travel from the village of Barovia to Vallaki? Counting the hexes, it looks like somewhere near 15 miles, which even at a slow pace can be done in a day. Does this seem right? What about travel time between other locations?  

Jester David

Seems about right. Barovia is tiny.  

MonsterEnvy

Count hex's each one is 1/4 mile. And a party can move 24 miles in a single day at normal pace. So going by road on the shortest route it is about 16 miles. Just count hexs when ever they head somewhere.  

Jester Canuck said: Seems about right. Barovia is tiny. Click to expand...

Satyrn said: Not just tiny, it should feel claustrophobic. Everything is within reach of Strahd's grasping claws Click to expand...

JoshR said: How long would it take a party to travel from the village of Barovia to Vallaki? Counting the hexes, it looks like somewhere near 15 miles, which even at a slow pace can be done in a day. Does this seem right? What about travel time between other locations? Click to expand...

• Mar 31, 2016

Moved post to new thread  

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Monday, February 22, 2021

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Legends of Barovia

• Legends of Saltmarsh
• Foundry Adventures
• Video Guides

What is Legends of Barovia?

Legends of Barovia is an extensive collection of guides that explore and expand upon the Curse of Strahd campaign setting. These guides draw inspiration from various sources, including classic literature, historical events, and my own creative imagination, as well as elements from different editions of D&D, such as 1e, 2e, 3e, and 5e. You can find a comprehensive list of the inspirations for the guides in the appendix of the Campaign Guide .

Where should I start?

Before you dive into your campaign, it’s a good idea to start with the Curse of Strahd Quick Reference , which you can access for free. This guide is designed to help you become familiar with the Curse of Strahd campaign, providing a handy reference for the Rules As Written (RAW).

Once you’ve gone through that, I recommend checking out the Campaign & Player Guides , also available at no cost. These guides offer a comprehensive overview of the Legends of Barovia, complementing both the core content of Curse of Strahd and the expanded Legends of Barovia campaign.

Additionally, for further assistance, you might find the video “ Are you Ready ” quite helpful in your preparations.

Are the PDF guides free?

Absolutely! Our mission is to offer top-quality guides to our amazing community for FREE. Our goal is to ensure that everyone has a great time exploring Barovia.

You can find a complete list of our FREE PDF guides by following this link: List of FREE PDF Guides. These guides utilize content featured in our video guides, which can be found here: List of Video Guides

Is Curse of Strahd required?

Yes, Legends of Barovia serves as a supplement to the Curse of Strahd adventure module. The PDF Guides include hyperlinks to D&D Beyond and page numbers from the Curse of Strahd book. To access areas or details not covered by the guide, you will need to possess a copy of the Curse of Strahd .

Does it incorporate other Fan Content like DragnaCarta, MandyMod, and Lunch Break Heroes?

Several guides in Legends of Barovia have been influenced by fan content. For instance, DragnaCarta’s post on Strahd inspired the Guide to Strahd, while MandyMod’s Reddit post on Vallaki influenced the Village of Vallaki expansion. The creation of Busty in the Wizard’s Tower was inspired by Lunch Break Heroes video.

In each case, the fan content that served as inspiration is credited and linked in the table of contents of the corresponding PDF Guides.

It is worth noting that Legends of Barovia draws inspiration from various sources and has incorporated and modified ideas to create a unique setting.

Please note that I am a Patreon supporter of both DragnaCarta and Lunch Break Heroes.

Is Legends of Barovia available for PathFinder and other RPGs?

Legends of Barovia is primarily created for use with Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition (D&D 5e). However, it’s versatile enough that many Game Masters have successfully adapted the guides for use in other tabletop RPG systems, such as Pathfinder 2e, OSR, ShadowDark, among others. It’s important for the Game Master to modify and use the correct stat blocks to fit the TTRPG system they are using.

Our Foundry VTT adventures are designed with two versions, Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition (D&D 5e) and a System Agnostic (sa) version to use for any TTRPG system.

Are there translated versions of the guides?

The PDF Guides are currently available only in English. However, a French version of the guides has been created by Tixu, which is available to members. If you are a member and would like to access the French version, please contact @Tixu on Discord in the #french-members section.

For Foundry users, there is a Comprehend Languages Module that can be used to translate text in Foundry. This module requires the Deepl API to automatically translate Foundry Journal entries.

For more information about this option, please visit: https://github.com/Meneltamar/fvtt-comprehend-languages

What is the process to create the guides?

The Legends of Barovia is a collaborative undertaking involving both the team and the community. The project begins with the creation of Early-Release Play Test Guides, which are made available in both PDF and Foundry formats exclusively for member supporters. DM Andy takes charge of crafting the battle maps, which serve as a source of inspiration and ideas. Feedback from the member supporters is eagerly anticipated and is instrumental in the finalization of the guide.

Once feedback has been gathered, I use it to generate a final draft guide that is then sent to Jesse Winters, the editor. During this period, Tixu designs the tokens. Once the FREE PDFs, tokens, and artwork are complete, I incorporate all the content from the FREE PDF guide to create the final Foundry Adventure.

The Legends of Barovia project began in June 2021, with the release of two guides each month. The final guide, the Catacombs of Ravenloft, was completed in March 2023. We are presently releasing updated final FREE PDFs and Foundry modules.

Who is on the team?

Our project is made possible by the incredible contributions of our team and member supporters!

♦   Pyram King  (author) ♦    DM Andy (map maker) ♦   Blair (Foundry Development and Support) ♦   Jesse Winter  (editor) ♦   Tixu (Tokens & French Translations & French Moderator)

Discord Support & Moderators

♦   @CryptoKaiju [UTC -5] ♦   @HawksTalon [UTC -8] ♦   @ElvenCari [UTC +1]

Will you be making additional content for Curse of Strahd?

As of March 2023, the core locations featured in Curse of Strahd have been fully covered. In collaboration with DM Andy, we have begun developing further fan content and supplements for Curse of Strahd, which will be made available periodically. Stay tuned for announcements regarding these new releases.

What are you releasing next? How do I stay informed?

Every month, I share a comprehensive update that includes the release schedule for the month, progress on long-term projects, and other pertinent information. Here’s an example of what you can expect:  March 2023 Update

To stay in the loop, make sure to FOLLOW ME on Ko-Fi.

Legends of Saltmarsh (Greyhawk)

What is legends of saltmarsh.

‘Legends of Saltmarsh’ is a comprehensive suite of guides designed to delve into and enhance the ‘Ghost of Saltmarsh’ adventure and the broader Greyhawk campaign setting. This collection is rooted in a rich tapestry of sources, comprising the intricate World of Greyhawk setting, classic D&D adventures, as well as insights and experiences gleaned from my own journeys through the captivating realms of Greyhawk and its myriad adventures. Through ‘Legends of Saltmarsh’, players and Dungeon Masters alike can expect an enriched exploration of this iconic setting.

The ‘Legends of Saltmarsh’ project is ambitiously structured into three distinct, yet interconnected segments, all of which are being developed concurrently:

• Campaign & Player Guide : This comprehensive guide offers a deep dive into the setting’s geography, lore, and inhabitants. It features extensive backgrounds, a detailed atlas, and a wealth of information designed to immerse players and Dungeon Masters in the rich tapestry of the Saltmarsh world.
• Saltmarsh Village Map : This segment focuses on an intricately detailed map of the Saltmarsh village. Each pinpointed location on the map is enriched with its own set of quest seeds, roll tables, NPCs, factions, and more. This is designed to be a dynamic hub for player characters—a place to return to for rest, resupply, forming alliances, and receiving new quests. It’s intended to feel like home for the adventurers.
• Adventures : This portion involves revisiting and reimagining the anthology of adventures from ‘Ghosts of Saltmarsh’, along with previous D&D adventures set in the region. It also includes the creation of brand-new adventures and quest seeds, ensuring a variety of thrilling experiences for players.

Stay tuned for updates as each facet of the ‘Legends of Saltmarsh’ project unfolds, bringing new depths and dimensions to your gaming experience.

The ‘Legends of Saltmarsh’ project is currently in its early stages, and you can expect fresh content to roll out monthly. To stay abreast of all the latest updates and releases, be sure to follow me on Ko-Fi .

If you’re looking to get acquainted with the backdrop of the ‘Legends of Saltmarsh’, I recommend beginning with the ‘Ghost of Saltmarsh’ book and exploring the ‘World of Greyhawk’ setting. These resources provide a solid foundation and a rich context for the unfolding adventures and expansions in the ‘Legends of Saltmarsh’ series.

Is Ghost of Saltmarsh and World of Greyhawk required?

‘Legends of Saltmarsh’ serves as an expansive enrichment of the ‘Ghost of Saltmarsh’ and the ‘World of Greyhawk’ settings. To fully appreciate and navigate the intricacies of this expanded setting, it is advisable to have both ‘Ghost of Saltmarsh’ and ‘World of Greyhawk’. The content in ‘Legends of Saltmarsh’ frequently references and builds upon details from these foundational texts, enhancing your experience and immersion in the lore and narrative.

Absolutely. In appreciation of their support, our donating members are granted exclusive early access to Playtest guides before the official release of the FREE PDF Guides. As ‘Legends of Saltmarsh’ is a community-driven project, we highly value the input, suggestions, and ideas contributed by our donating members throughout the project’s development. These contributions are integral to shaping the final drafts, which are meticulously edited by Jesse Winter, before being released to the wider community at no cost.

Will this be released for Foundry VTT?

Indeed, as a token of gratitude for their invaluable contributions, our donating members will receive exclusive access to Foundry VTT adventures. These adventures will be released concurrently with the playtest PDFs, and we actively seek feedback and input from our members to refine and enhance them. Following this collaborative revision process, a polished final version of the Foundry Adventures will be made available, free of charge, to all members who have supported this project.

Is Legends of Saltmarsh available for other RPGs?

Yes, ‘Legends of Saltmarsh’ is tailored to accommodate both D&D 5e enthusiasts and those who prefer a system-neutral approach. Our primary focus lies in the rich, immersive setting of Saltmarsh, which is designed to be system-neutral and adaptable to various TTRPG rule systems. For our Foundry VTT adventures, we provide versions specifically for D&D 5e as well as System Agnostic (SA) editions, ensuring that all players, regardless of their preferred rule set, can fully engage with and enjoy the Saltmarsh experience.

How do I become a member?

Our membership is offered as a monthly subscription and can be canceled anytime without any obligation. You can access our membership plans on the Ko-Fi platform, which supports payment options such as PayPal and Stripe (credit cards).

Become a member.

What are the benefits to becoming a member?

To support this project and provide free PDF Guides to the community, we have created memberships.

As a gesture of gratitude for your support, members gain access to additional bonus content, which includes:

♦  Early-Release Play Test PDFs ♦  Token Packs ♦  Theater of the Mind art ♦  Item Art ♦  Sound Files ♦  Foundry Adventure Library ♦  Online Support

What is the difference between a Member and Legendary Member?

All membership tiers grant access to all of the available content. As a token of appreciation, Legendary members are acknowledged in the PDF, Foundry Adventures, and YouTube videos. Furthermore, Legendary members may receive additional content or early-release content. 

How do I provide Guide Feedback?

We value community feedback and encourage members to share their thoughts and suggestions regarding our PDF and Foundry Adventures. Members receive early access to play-test versions and can provide feedback via the #guide-feedback section on our Discord Server.

When posting, please include:

♦  The name of the guide ♦  Tags – Please select all the appropriate tags (Foundry v9+, v10, Old PDF, Free PDF, etc) ♦  Please clearly inform us if this is an edit, fix, foundry, suggestion, etc.

How do I connect my membership to Discord?

If you are a Ko-Fi member, your Ko-Fi account will automatically connect to Discord. However, if it doesn’t, please make sure to visit your Ko-Fi account and connect it to Discord.

Foundry VTT

What is foundry vtt.

Foundry VTT is a digital platform designed for playing tabletop RPGs online. Legends of Barovia Adventures are specifically created for use with Foundry VTT.

To learn more about Foundry VTT, please visit the following link: https://foundryvtt.com/

What is the difference between Foundry v9+, v10+, and v11 Adventures?

Foundry v9+ Adventures: The adventures created for Foundry Virtual Tabletop (VTT) version 9 are compatible with versions 8 through 11. However, they don’t incorporate the new features introduced in version 10 and later. To use these adventures, you’ll need the Scene Packer module. The Legends of Barovia play-test versions are developed in version 9+. The completion of Castle Ravenloft concluded the version 9+ adventure series, with all future content and play-tests being developed in Foundry version 11 or the latest version. As new updates roll out, the v9+ adventures will be archived.

Foundry v10+ Adventures: These adventures, designed specifically for Foundry versions 10 and 11, take full advantage of the new Foundry Adventure Compendiums. They are brand new creations, not updates of the version 9+ adventures. If you’re installing a version 10 adventure, it’s advisable to uninstall any existing version 9+ adventure first to prevent conflicts.

Foundry v11 Adventures: Tailored for Foundry version 11, these adventures come in both 5e system and System Agnostic versions. Starting in 2024, all adventures are being updated to version 11, and any new adventures will also be released in this version, available in both 5e and System Agnostic formats.

Should I update to D&D 3.0?

The upgrade to D&D 3.0 does not interfere with adventure modules, but the compatibility with Monk’s Active Tiles hasn’t been fully assessed yet. We’re working to determine if updates to our adventures are needed. Blair, our Foundry sage, also recommends waiting to update until most other modules are ready. And he can’t stress enough the importance of backing up your data before making any changes .

Why are there individual adventures instead of one single campaign to install?

The Legends of Barovia was created as a series of Foundry Adventures for several reasons. Firstly, it has been an ongoing project for over two years, and rather than waiting until the end, I decided to release chapters as soon as they were ready so that people could enjoy it right away. Secondly, releasing play-test versions by chapter made it easier to receive feedback and for users to digest the content. Thirdly, managing updates and edits is far easier with a series of adventure modules than with one large release, as the current version is being updated from v9+ to v10. Fourthly, a single release would be massive, as the current total file size of all chapters is close to 1gb. Lastly, importing one single massive file into Foundry could be taxing on both the host and the player’s experience, potentially slowing down Foundry. Therefore, for reasons such as maintaining version control, updates, file size, and release schedules, it is just easier to manage the content with a series of adventure modules rather than one single large one.

Will you support future versions of Foundry?

Yes! Legends of Barovia and Legends of Saltmarsh are now available for Foundry Virtual Tabletop (VTT) version 11. These adventures are compatible with both Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition (D&D 5e) and a System Agnostic format. We are committed to keeping our adventures up-to-date, so as new versions of Foundry are released, we will continue to update our content to support the most recent version of Foundry.

Can I use the Foundry Adventures to run Curse of Strahd, Rules as Written (RAW)?

The Foundry Adventure Modules for Legends of Barovia provide all the essential locations and information from Curse of Strahd, and also offer convenient links back to D&D Beyond Curse of Strahd . Once you’ve installed the adventure, you have the freedom to customize it as desired. You can choose to run it “RAW” using the D&D Beyond links or edit the journal entries to include additional fan content or your own homebrew ideas. Furthermore, you can import 3rd-party, maps (3d, animated, high-resolution), tokens, sound, and other graphics to enhance the adventure experience.

Is Legends of Barovia available for Roll20 or other VTTs?

The Legends of Barovia content is exclusive to Foundry VTT and is not available for any other virtual tabletop platform. However, the Member Bonus Content (maps, tokens, theater of the mind scenes) can be incorporated into other VTT platforms. This instruction video shows how to incorporate the content into OwlBearRodeo VTT.

How do I get access to Foundry Adventures?

Foundry Adventures are an exclusive benefit for members who support the Legends of Barovia project. As a way of expressing our gratitude, we have converted the free content into Foundry Adventures, complete with walls, lighting, sound, and artwork, to save you valuable time. Additionally, the adventures include links to D&D Beyond, making them compatible with Curse of Strahd. If you’re interested in becoming a member and gaining access to these exclusive benefits, you can do so by following this link. Become a member

Do your Foundry Adventures requires 3rd party modules?

Yes, there are some requirements for installing certain adventures:

♦  Adventures that are v9+ require the Scene Packer module for installation. ♦  Adventures that are v10 or higher use the Foundry Adventure Compendium and do not require the Scene Packer module.

Please note that some adventures use Monk’s Active Tile Triggers for features such as teleportation.

What Foundry modules do you recommend?

While I have used between 80-120 modules for various campaigns and adventures, I am hesitant to recommend any specific third-party modules. The reason being, there are so many options available, and the ideal module for your game will depend on the type of experience you want to create. Additionally, some modules’ status may fluctuate between third-party support and Foundry version updates, making it essential to back up your content before updating.

If you are seeking recommendations, our Discord server and Foundry’s Discord server are excellent resources to find suggestions from experienced Foundry users.

Do you use 3d or animated maps and tokens?

No, my objective is to create adventures that are playable on all types of machines, including low-end laptops and PCs, as well as low-bandwidth internet connections. To achieve this, I utilize efficient webp compression techniques for graphics and maps and limit file sizes.

If desired, high-resolution 8k maps available through DM Andy’s Patreon, or 3D maps, animated maps and tokens can be substituted. However, before incorporating these into the game, I recommend verifying the capabilities of all players’ computers to ensure that higher-end graphics and larger file sizes can be accommodated and that everyone can enjoy a smooth experience.

I need help with Foundry Adventures? (Support)

We offer assistance to our members via our Discord server. To access the members’ section, be sure to link your Discord account to your Ko-Fi account if you are a member.

How do I install a Legends of Barovia Foundry Adventure?

The following video provides a step-by-step guide on installation. For both self-hosting or on the Forge (cloud hosting).

Ko-Fi & Patreon

What is ko-fi.

Ko-Fi is a platform that provides an alternative to Patreon for creators to share content and receive support from their community. In January 2023, I migrated from Patreon to Ko-Fi and launched my new website.

As a full-time content creator, I believe that Ko-Fi is the best platform to provide content and support to the community due to its feature-rich platform with an online shop, tier memberships, donations, commissions, blog posts, and various integrations. It also offers a low-cost solution compared to other platforms. Furthermore, Ko-Fi provides excellent customer and creator support and does not require a royalty-free perpetual irrevocable license agreement, which other platforms like Patreon do. Content creators can be sensitive about such license agreements after the OGL shyt-show.

All the content previously on Patreon has been migrated to Ko-Fi shop.

To learn more about Ko-Fi, visit their website at Ko-Fi.com

Are you still on Patreon?

In January 2023, I transitioned from Patreon to Ko-Fi. I am no longer accepting new supporters on Patreon and encourage existing supporters to migrate to Ko-Fi.

While I will continue to maintain Patreon for existing supporters and updates to Legends of Barovia content, all new content and projects will only be available on Ko-Fi.

Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution, update may 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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Russia Travel Advisory

Travel advisory september 5, 2023, russia - level 4: do not travel.

Updated to remove COVID-specific information and the kidnapping risk indicator as well as updates to security risks.

Do not travel to Russia due to the unpredictable consequences of the  unprovoked full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russian military forces , the potential for  harassment and the singling out of U.S. citizens for detention by Russian government security officials , the  arbitrary enforcement of local law ,  limited flights into and out of Russia , the  Embassy’s limited ability to assist U.S. citizens in Russia , and the possibility of  terrorism .  U.S. citizens residing or travelling in Russia should depart immediately.  Exercise increased caution due to  the risk of wrongful detentions.

The U.S. government’s ability to provide routine or emergency services to U.S. citizens in Russia is severely limited, particularly in areas far from the U.S. Embassy in Moscow, due to Russian government limitations on travel for embassy personnel and staffing, and the ongoing suspension of operations, including consular services, at U.S. consulates.

There have been numerous reports of drone attacks, explosions, and fires in areas in Western and Southern Russia, particularly near the Russian border with Ukraine, as well as in Moscow and St. Petersburg. In the event of an emergency, U.S. citizens should follow instructions from local authorities and seek shelter immediately.

In September 2022, the Russian government mobilized citizens to the armed forces in support of its invasion of Ukraine. Russia may refuse to acknowledge dual nationals’ U.S. citizenship, deny their access to U.S. consular assistance, subject them to mobilization, prevent their departure from Russia, and/or conscript them. 

U.S. citizens should note that U.S. credit and debit cards no longer work in Russia, and options to electronically transfer funds from the United States are extremely limited due to sanctions imposed on Russian banks. There are reports of cash shortages within Russia.

Commercial flight options are extremely limited and are often unavailable on short notice. If you wish to depart Russia, you should make independent arrangements as soon as possible. The U.S. Embassy has severe limitations on its ability to assist U.S. citizens to depart the country and transportation options may suddenly become even more limited. Click  here  for Information for U.S. Citizens Seeking to Depart Russia.

U.S. Embassy personnel are generally not permitted to travel on Russian air carriers due to safety concerns.  The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) downgraded the air safety rating for Russia from Category 1 to Category 2 on April 21, 2022, due to Russia’s Federal Agency for Air Transport noncompliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) safety standards.  The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) prohibiting U.S. aviation operations into, out of, within, or over those areas of the Moscow Flight Information Region (FIR), the Samara FIR (UWWW) and the Rostov-na-Donu (URRV) FIR within 160NM of the boundaries of the Dnipro (UKDV) Flight Information Regions. For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the  Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices .

The right of peaceful assembly and freedom of expression are not consistently protected in Russia. U.S. citizens should avoid all political or social protests and not photograph security personnel at these events. Russian authorities have arrested U.S. citizens who have participated in demonstrations and there are numerous reports Russian nationals have been detained for social media activity. 

Country Summary:

U.S. citizens, including former and current U.S. government and military personnel and private citizens engaged in business who are visiting or residing in Russia, have been interrogated without cause and threatened by Russian officials, and may become victims of harassment, mistreatment, and extortion. 

Russian security services may fail to notify the U.S. Embassy of the detention of a U.S. citizen and unreasonably delay U.S. consular assistance. Russian security services are increasing the arbitrary enforcement of local laws to target foreign and international organizations they consider “undesirable.”

Russian security services have arrested U.S. citizens on spurious charges, singled out U.S. citizens in Russia for detention and harassment, denied them fair and transparent treatment, and convicted them in secret trials or without presenting credible evidence. Furthermore, Russian authorities arbitrarily enforce local laws against U.S. citizen religious workers and have opened questionable criminal investigations against U.S. citizens engaged in religious activity. U.S. citizens should avoid travel to Russia to perform work for or volunteer with non-governmental organizations or religious organizations.

There have been multiple security incidents in southwestern Russia related to Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine. The Russian government declared martial law in Russia’s regions bordering Ukraine (Bryansk, Kursk, Belgorod, Voronezh, Rostov, Krasnodar) on October 20, 2022. The martial law regime allows the rapid introduction of restrictive measures such as curfew, seizure of private property, restriction of entry/exit and freedom of movement, internment of foreigners, forced relocation of local residents, and restrictions on public gatherings. U.S. citizens should avoid all travel to these areas.

Recent legislation has expanded the ability of Russian authorities to detain, question, and arrest individuals suspected of acting against Russia’s interests, including posts on personal social media accounts, engaging with foreign and international entities, discrediting the Russian state or military, as well as advocating for the rights of LGBTQI+ persons.

Terrorist groups, both transnational and local terrorist organizations, and individuals inspired by extremist ideology continue plotting possible attacks in Russia. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs and systems, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas. Travel to the North Caucasus (including Chechnya and Mt. Elbrus) is prohibited for U.S. government employees and strongly discouraged for U.S. citizens.

The international community, including the United States and Ukraine, does not recognize Russia’s purported annexation of Crimea as well as four other Ukrainian oblasts – Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhya – that Russia has purported to annex more recently. There is extensive Russian Federation military presence in these areas. Russia staged its further invasion of Ukraine, in part, from occupied Crimea, and Russia is likely to take further military actions in Crimea, and the four other Ukrainian oblasts are the subject of intensive fighting. There are continuing abuses against foreigners and the local population by the occupation authorities in these regions, particularly against those who are seen as challenging Russia’s authority.

The U.S. Embassy in Kyiv continues to provide consular services to U.S. citizens in Crimea as well as four other Ukrainian oblasts partially occupied by Russia – Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhya, although the ongoing conflict severely restricts the Embassy’s ability to provide services in these areas.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Russia.

If you decide to travel to Russia:

• Familiarize yourself with the information on  what the U.S. government can and cannot do to assist you in a crisis overseas .
• Have a contingency plan in place that does not rely on U.S. government assistance. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Monitor local and international media for breaking events and adjust your contingency plans based on the new information.
• Ensure travel documents are valid and easily accessible.
• Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Russia.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

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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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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

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

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

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

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

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

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

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

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

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

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Godzillas Hostel

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

• Towels Included

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

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

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

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

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

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

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

The Alexander Garden

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ostankino Television Tower

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

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

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

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

Izmaylovo District

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

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

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

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

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

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

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

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

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

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

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

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

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

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

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

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

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

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

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

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

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

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

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

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

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

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

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

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

How many days you need in Moscow?

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

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

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

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

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

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

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

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

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

Alya and Campbell

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