Glorious day to all! Today I will talk about Russia’s beautiful capital Moscow, which I think is very curious.
Russia was one of the geographies I wanted to see for a long time. In line with my plan, I will first discover Moscow.. You can read must see places in Moscow and my general impressions of Russia with the whole story in my travel notes.
Moscow River and Russia Flag
How to Get to Moscow?
May 20 I was ready to start a brand new trip. My plane that will take me to Russia leaves at 12 noon.. I take my bag and set off.
Today’s flight is from Istanbul Sabiha Gökcen Airport.. I will reach Moscow with a direct flight of Pegasus Airlines. After the checks, we get on the plane and take off !
The distance I will travel between Istanbul and Moscow will be approximately 1700 kilometers. You can cross this distance in 2.5 hours by air.. This is the easiest way to reach Moscow. In addition, there are frequent scheduled flights from our country to different cities of Russia.
On the Way to Moscow
Alternatively, there are train services from most cities of Eastern Europe to Moscow. It can be a unique route for those who want an adventurous road !
General Information About Russia
Before arriving in the city, I would like to give general information about Moscow and Russia.
Russia is actually everyone’s business. a country with a close witness, lands spreading over most of the world, and a long history. Russian history, which started in the years before Christ, first gained a Russian State in 862.
With the past centuries, the Russian Federation, which was established in 1991 after the collapse of the Soviet Union, has become today’s Putin. It is an important country with its Sharapova, Kremlin, Red Square and close relations with our country.. The official currency of the country is the Russian Ruble, and the language is Russian.
Moscow Overview / Red Square
Where is Moscow?
Russian Federation hosts over 140 million people as of 2021. Also, the world’s largest country in terms of area!
Moscow is the capital of this huge country and one of the most important commercial, socio-cultural and political points of the world.. Located in the west of the country, in the northeast of Europe. With a population of over 10 million, Europe’s second most populous city after Istanbul.
Established around the river, which is named after its name, in a relatively recent time like 1117, Moscow is nowadays as much as every other area. one of the important centers of tourism.
Russia’s Cyrillic Alphabet / St.. Basil’s Cathedral
Is it Required to Obtain a Visa to Russia?
You need a visa to the Russian Federation by 2021 for your travels. Actually, this visa was not required during my visit, so I did not get a visa but now that I’m writing my travel notes, things have changed.
When I was in Moscow, I had a slogan like “the most pleasant city to go without a visa“, frankly, but I regret that I have to take it back. After the flight, we descend for landing.
The first thing that catches my attention when landing is the lush green surroundings of Moscow.. Everywhere my eye can see is covered with lush forests.. We’re almost going to land on the trees !
Domodedovo Airport / On board
Russia Entry Form
I’m at Moscow Domodedovo Airport at 3 pm local time. This name is quite difficult to pronounce at first sight! Domodedovo is one of the three major airports of Moscow. It is located 45 kilometers south of the city.
The Cyrillic Alphabet, which appeared before me in the first minutes, seems to complicate my work already.. I fill out the Immigration Form before coming to the passport control department. In this form, there are questions about how many days you will stay in the country and why you come.
Actually, passport control is generally easier and shorter in countries where this type of form is entered.. Because you have already answered the questions that the passport officer will ask, but this time it is a first!
My Plane That Brought Me From Istanbul
A few seconds after I submitted the form, the officer said something in Russian, but I said “English?” After replying as “OK”, he immediately prints the stamp and takes me to the country.. Honestly it’s the first time I see a non-English speaking passport officer. Of course, I have never been one of the tourists coming to our country!
Domodedovo Airport – Moscow Transportation
I told you that Domodedovo Airport is a little far from the city.. The best way to get to the city center from here is to take trains.. You can reach Paveletskaya station in the city center in 45 minutes with these trains departing right in front of the airport.
The cost of getting on these trains, called Aeroexpress, is 420 rubles, or 25 liras, one way.
The train goes over the ground along the way, so I start to get into the atmosphere of the city with the sights I see!
From Domodedovo to the City Center By Train
Moscow Metro
I’m at Paveletskaya Station now. First, I go to the Landmark Hostel in the Arbat District, which I pre-booked.. I will use Moscow Metro to get here.
Moscow Metro is one of the world’s oldest and most advanced. In this way, it is possible to easily reach any point of the city in Moscow.. Also, the designs of these underground stations should be seen.
Paveletskaya Station / Aero Express Train on the Right
First Impressions from Moscow
I start my tour right after I check into my hostel and leave my belongings.
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First of all, I notice nice buildings with light colors and wide streets. It will not be difficult to understand that a square I will photograph here belongs to Moscow.
Since the place I am staying is close to the center of the city, I continue on foot.. But there are also rules for walking in Moscow !
Walking from Hostel to City Center
Yes walking is serious business here, because there are almost no traffic lights on the roads and there are no underpasses to cross the street. you need to use. Of course, these underpasses are not everywhere.. If you miss the places where it is, you may have to take the long way as I did.
Places to Visit in Moscow
I can see the Russian State Library from afar. This is the first important building I’ve seen in the city.. I can say that the building is exceedingly imposing.. It is also possible to visit it free of charge during the day.
Russian State Library
I arrive at the square where the Marshal Zhukov Monument, which can be called the heart of Moscow, is located.. This place is like a 360 degree panoramic open air museum, there are imposing and different buildings all around me.
The first one is Four Seasons Hotel Moscow. Located in one of the most important points of Moscow, this hotel is also a tourist attraction.. It draws attention with its architecture and size.
Four Seasons Hotel Moscow on the right
Next is the Russian State History Museum Building. State Historical Museum, with its English name, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful buildings in the city.. The museum, built in 1872, is one of the outstanding examples of Russian Architecture and is fascinating with its dark red color!
There is also a Russian War Museum right next to this place.. The architecture of this building, which has a slightly lighter red color, is also worth seeing.. In fact, I can say the same for most buildings in this part of Moscow.. I am really excited to see examples from Europe other than the architecture I am accustomed to.
Russian State History Museum Building
Zero Point of Moscow
At the point opening to Kızılmeydan between the two museum buildings I mentioned Zero Point of Moscow. This was the starting point for measuring the distance from Moscow to other cities in ancient times.. Today, there is a monument on the ground to commemorate this.
I am now at a world-famous point integrated with the name of Moscow; Red Square.
Russian War Museum Building
Red Square (Red Square)
Red Square 15. Russian States and the most important point of Moscow since the century. In this region, which is located in the middle of the city, a market was established in the early days.. After the Kremlin Palace, right next to the square, was built, this place became Red Square, based on the Russian word for “beautiful”.
Red Square has been the scene of important political events, ceremonies and executions throughout history. Location. You can actually smell this history from the general architecture of the square and the imposing buildings around it.
The Road Opening to Red Square between the Two Museums and the Zero Point of Moscow
Today, there is a huge stage in the middle of the square.. I think this is it’s going to be a fun concert. I am usually lucky in my trips on these matters, this time it may be a surprise!
The two museums I mentioned about Red Square are the Kremlin, GUM Shopping Center and St.. Basil’s Cathedral surrounds.
Red Square
Moscow Kremlin
The most historically important one is undoubtedly the Kremlin.
Kremlin in Russian, fortress, fortress , means castle and this place is called Moscow Kremlin.
Moscow Kremlin was first established in the 15th century.. It covers a large area, the construction of which was started at the end of the century.. This place has been the residence of the Russian Tsars throughout history.. After the Borovitskaya Tower, Bekleşhev Tower, St. Nicholas – St. Flor Gates and some religious points were added over time, 19. The great palace was built in the 16th century.
The Kremlin Walls from Red Square
In addition, in the Bell Tower of Ivan the Great, added to the Kremlin in 1600, there is the Tsar Kolokol, the world’s largest bell, weighing 218 tons. .
The Kremlin Palace, the residence of the President of the Russian Federation today, is one of the symbols of Moscow.
The Kremlin’s Spasskaya Tower
Red Square’ The imposing red-colored walls of the Kremlin, which you can see from below, and the other towers, especially The Spasskaya Tower, are really impressive in size.. These walls almost reflect the history and power of Russia.
It is very nice to see the Kremlin from afar.. Those who want to examine it closely need to buy tickets with a reservation in advance.. It is imperative that you spend half a day here with a private tour.. Inside, you can see important pieces from the tsarist period.
St. Basil’s Cathedral
Now I am at St Basil’s Cathedral’, a member of Red Square as if from a wonderland.
St. Basil’s Cathedral
St. Basil’s Cathedral is the most iconic structure of Moscow and Russia.. It is a very different building with its location and history, as well as its special architecture.
The church built by Ivan the Terrible in memory of the Russians’ victories against the Kazan and Astrakhan Khanates in 1551. Its eight domes symbolized eight separate victories.
St. Basil’s Cathedral and I
According to the rumors, St. Basil’s Cathedral was designed by an Italian Architect and was blinded so that it would not be repeated again, and this structure is an example of Russian Architecture.
If we go through the technical and historical parts, the colorful domes of St. Basil’s Cathedral almost resemble an ice cream. As the sun approaches, these colors are beautiful with the light hitting the sun!
It’s getting dark now. Although it is May, the weather is warm and sunny. In Moscow, known for its harsh winters, the weather is over 20 degrees today, but after the sun has lost its effect, the air gets a little cooler and I wear long-sleeved clothes!
Moscow River
Moscow River
Finally, I’m going to the Moscow River. I can say that it is right behind St. Basil’s Cathedral.. The views of the buildings by the river are very nice.. It is also possible to see local cruise boats on the river, This is a city that the river divides into two in the shape of a snake.
Today has been a long and tiring day for me, with my journey from Istanbul.. Now it’s time to go back to my hostel and get some rest. I haven’t completed the places to visit in Moscow yet. Tomorrow I will go to the rest of Moscow’s must-see spots and breathe in the city’s air!
St. Basil’s Cathedral / At sunset
May 21 I wake up to the day in Moscow. Time to explore the city after a delicious breakfast!. Today is the Alexander Garden located at the back of the Kremlin.
This is the largest and most beautiful park in the city centre.. The landscaping of the park, which surrounds the western walls of the Kremlin along its length, is also pleasant.. Also, if you visit on a sunny day like me, you can sit on the grass and relax for a bit while exploring the Kremlin!
Alexander Garden
Alexander Garden and its surroundings are a lively spot of the city.. With the weather being sunny, all the cafes in this area have a crowded and cheerful atmosphere.
Shopping in Moscow
I’m going back to Red Square now. I’m here to capture nicer photos by daylight. Then I head to the GUM Shopping Center in the square. This is a huge shopping complex.. Inside you can find many things from famous brands to local products.
GUM Shopping Center
This is the most important point for those who want to shop in Moscow. It is possible to come across very enjoyable activities at GUM Shopping Center.. The architecture inside is also great.
One door of GUM opens to Nikolskaya Street. This street is one of the most lively spots in Moscow.. You can see local restaurants and shops along the way. Nikolskaya’s beige buildings have a clear beauty.
Inside the GUM Shopping Center
I’m moving towards the east of the city.. The buildings here are like a modern day revival of old Moscow.. This street, together with the buildings and stony roads I mentioned, gave me the feeling of I was descending from Akaretler to Beşiktaş honestly. I think they’re too similar!
I’m walking a long way about two kilometers. Actually, I don’t really understand how time flies. It’s great to explore Moscow with the fascinating atmosphere of the city.. What I want to see here is the Kotelnicheskaya Embankment Building, which is one of the interesting structures of Moscow.
Russia’s Eastern Streets Resembling Akarets to Me
This 52-meter-long building was built in 1952 and has an interesting appearance. owner. It is a pleasure to examine the building closely, which you can see from most points of the city. This building occupies a huge block and we can say that it is one of the last examples of Moscow’s historical image with its architecture.
I am going down to the riverside.. Actually, it wasn’t easy! The streets of Moscow can be so wide sometimes that when you can catch the empty moment it almost resembles a square.
Nikolskaya Street
After a little walk on the banks of the Moscow River, now I take the metro and turn my route to the west of the city.
Speaking of subway, I should open a separate parenthesis. The Moscow Metro is a very large and complex system.. Actually, although I am used to use the subway in big cities, there is a different situation that compels me here!
Kotelnicheskaya Embankment Building
Cyrillic Alphabet
Yes, you guessed it right, Cyrillic Alphabet. As in most parts of the city, it is not possible to come across Latin Alphabet signs outside of a few metro stations in the center.. You must find your way with Cyrillic Letters. This makes our job very difficult..
My advice is to download an offline Moscow Metro Map to your phone. Google Maps’ offline feature will do the trick. In this way, you can at least find your way by making comparisons.
Signs That Create Difficulty for Me on the Metro
West Moscow
I’m getting off at 10-letiya Oktyabrya station. This is the closest transportation point to the famous Novodevichy Convent, Park and Cemetery.. Before I walk a short distance, the different architecture of the west of the city catches my attention.
You can see more socialist period residences in this area.. Most of these buildings were built in a very high and uniform shape.
On the way to Novodevichy
I would like to talk about a detail I saw here.. It is difficult to even recognize the names of the shops of famous fast-food and coffee chains in Moscow.. These names are also written in Cyrillic Alphabet.. Frankly, as someone who has been to most parts of the world, this is the first time I’ve encountered such a situation!
Novodevichy
After a road covered with greenery, Novodevichy Convent winking from afar. Its architecture and colors are delightful and heartwarming like other structures in Moscow.
Novodevichy Convent
The Novodevichy Ponds Park in this region is another beautiful spot where you can immerse yourself in nature from the atmosphere of the city.. Along with the pond in the park, You can watch the skyscrapers built with a new architectural approach, representing the renewed face of Moscow.
Traces of Turks in Russia
Most of these skyscrapers are high and side by side.. As a Civil Engineering student, I have seen a few of the projects I follow closely with the naked eye.. Some of these tall buildings are being built by Turkish Firms.. As you can imagine, Turks have a big place in the Russian Construction Industry!
Novodevichy Park / Moscow’s Modern Skyscrapers
Where is Nazim Hikmet’s Grave in Moscow?
Arriving at Novodevichy Cemetery. I think most of you have heard of this name. Nâzım Hikmet, one of the most special names of our literature, also lies in this cemetery.
Novodevichy is an important cemetery for Russian and World History as well.. This is the final resting place of Nazım Hikmet as well as famous writers such as Anton Chekhov and Nikolay Gogol.
Novodevichy Cemetery
You can visit this place for free during the day and Moscow While you’re here, you can visit Nazım Hikmet.. As Nazım said, “…there was a distant city and a song, the song was nihavent.”
Now I take the subway to the city center again.. Next is the Cathedral of Christ the Savior.
This structure is one of the most beautiful churches in the city.. with an architectural style called the Russian Revival 19. The church built in the 19th century is one of the beauties that should not be missed in Moscow.
Cathedral of Christ the Savior
After this area, there is one last point I want to visit in the center of the city, the Bolshoi Theater.
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I’m coming in front of the Theatrical’naya metro station. There is a wide street in front of me and an elegant fountain in the middle, behind which the Bolshevik Theater, rising with majesty, completes a beautiful view in fact.
The Bolshoi Theater is one of the most meaningful structures of Moscow.. Completed in 1825, the theater is the center of the performing arts in Moscow, which is an important part of Russian Culture.. Those who want to visit this place from this link, can check the event schedule and have a wonderful theater experience in Moscow.
Bolshoi Theater
Moscow Nightlife
in Moscow I have completed the important points to be visited. After going to my hostel and resting for a while, I’m going to have some fun tonight Moscow’s lively nightlife!
One of the first things that comes to mind when it comes to Russia is undoubtedly entertainment.. Russians are a people who love to have fun and whose most famous drink is vodka. I think you have guesses about the nightlife of Moscow, the capital of the country!
The night out in Moscow is quite colorful.. In fact, you can come across nice pubs and restaurants-bars on any corner without looking at a specific area.. Most of them are likely to have a pleasant evening.
Cafes Around Alexander Garden
Especially Everyone is having fun in the area around Kuznetsky Most Metro Station. I sit at a bar with music in this area and have one of the local cocktails.
Are Russians Friendly?
The bar I’m in is full of elegant ladies, as the country is famous for. Most Russians are friendly towards the people of our country.. However, the most striking point here is that almost nobody speaks English in Moscow. By not knowing, I mean they don’t even know enough to have ordinary daily conversations!
Without even needing to negotiate, a Russian girl of my own age came and made me dance! I think I draw attention today, since it is obvious that I am a tourist from the outside. You can experience such things in Russia because they really like to have fun in the country !
The Streets of Moscow after Dark
Why Go to Moscow?
To sum up, Moscow is suitable for those looking for a different experience without going too far a route. Although it is not known in our country in general terms, as you can see, the central parts of the city in particular offer an atmospheric experience.
What to Buy in Moscow?
While you’re here, you can see the famous city of Russia. you can get the local part Matrushka and other local products. Most of these are pretty affordable. There are many souvenir shops, especially in the connecting tunnels of the metro stations.
St. Basil’s Cathedral and the Flag of Russia
Russian Vodka
I will open a separate parenthesis for “Russian Vodka”. Vodka has a special importance in Russia. It is an important beverage in their culture and it is consumed almost more than water in the city!
In Moscow, you can find vodkas of local brands at affordable prices from supermarkets.. Most of them can be considered as collections. I’ve also added one to my collection.
Wide Moscow Streets
Is Moscow Expensive?
Moscow is actually one of the most expensive cities in the world by most evaluations. But I must remind you that this is a big metropolis.. So you can find a place for every budget.. Frankly, the prices seemed similar to the level of Istanbul to me.
As far as Moscow, the country is perhaps more famous in terms of tourism St.. You must visit St. Petersburg. Due to my limited time during my ongoing school term, I only had the chance to visit Moscow.
Novodevichy Park
Cities to See Around Moscow
Although it is not very close, it is far from Moscow.. You can reach St. Petersburg in a relatively short time by high-speed trains.
Another important city close to Moscow Belarus’ capital Minsk. You can see with the naked eye that this delightful city, which I visited as part of my trip to the Baltic States, actually reflects a beautiful transition culture between Europe and Russia.
Russian State History Museum Building and Me / Red Square
Moscow Climate
The weather was quite hot and sunny in late May when I visited. The best time to visit Moscow is actually spring and summer.. Until a few months ago, the weather was around -20 degrees here. It can be fun to see this city under the snow, too.
I end my Moscow travel note here. Between the lines I think I have given many tips to guide your journey. I suggest you check out another important capital city to the west of Moscow, Minsk and Belarus, stay warm!
Continued: My Minsk, Belarus Travel Notes
I want to go abroad, where should I start ?
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Places to Visit in Yalikavak in 8 Items (With Map)
