We have to admit…Moscow – or the continent Russia altogether – has always instilled some sense of fear. The image we have of the city, when not having visited, is however, at a far distance from the modern Moscow of today. “All Russians drink gallons of vodka” or “Muscovites are the embodiment of unfriendliness” or “Russia doesn’t have a good food culture” or “The city is not safe.”
Nothing could be further from the truth…Moscow is a dazzling and vibrant city, not comparable to any other metropolis. You can find great food. Yes, they do like their vodka, but not everyone runs around drinking all day. And once you get through the initial reluctance of the Russian people (and passport control :-)), it’s a very nice and friendly crowd.
If you dare distance yourself from these prejudices, you’ll definitely be surprised by this city. More so, you’ll gradually fall in love with the magical city that Moscow is. Shots & Bites collected 10 reasons that will convince you to absolutely travel to this city!
1. PARTY LIKE A RUSSIAN
Not only Robbie Williams is a Russian party expert, even the Russians know how party. Moscow – just like that other metropolis New York – is a city that never sleeps. The night life in Moscow is diverse. Restaurants, bars, clubs, parties…you don’t have to get bored at any time at night. From the Icon Club in the Red October district, to Valenok Restaurant that turns into a club after dinner time, to the hidden Mendeljev bar. For everyone’s taste the perfect venue.
The trendy Valenok restaurant turns into a club after dinner time.
2. RICH CULTURE & HISTORY
The Russian capital is a sloppy 860 years old and definitely one of the most rich cities, from a historical standpoint. Russia is the largest country in the world. Moscow is the 5th largest city. With countless attractions and must-sees, this city is a paradise for tourists. St Basil’s Cathedral, Red Square, the Kremlin, the famous Moscow subway, Fallen Legends Park, St Christ the Savior, … and many more (see number 3, 5, 6).
St.Basil’s Cathedral – Red Square
3. BOLSHOI THEATRE
The Bolshoi is a historic theater in Moscow, listing both ballet and opera performances. The main building – renovated and rebuilt several times – is the pride of Moscow and Russia. It’s both inside and outside a wonderful building. Those who wish to visit the theater, can opt for a tour behind the scenes. It’s not always easy to get in there. Definitely check the possibilities before you travel. Those who had the privilege to do this tour, will definitely recommend it. You will be impressed.
4. GOOD FOOD & TRENDY RESTAURANTS
Shots & Bites can easily recommend a dozen restaurants where you can eat extremely well in a trendy, cozy and exceptional setting. Soon we’ll dedicate a new blog post to these restaurants. When in Russia, eat like the Russians. For sure try the Russian traditional dishes like Beef Stroganoff, borsj soup and dumplings. Yummy!
5. LENIN’S TOMB
Lenin’s mausoleum can be found on the Red Square and – those who wish – can visit Lenin’s embalmed body. According to authorities, it’s indeed the real Lenin, even though he looks more like a polished/waxed doll, caused by chemicals used to keep the body ‘fresh’. Somewhere in Russia, a second corpse in the same conditions is being closely monitored. If changes are observed in the 2nd body’s condition, they know it’s time to also deal with the real Lenin again. Admission is free, although you must regularly face very long queues.
6.THE SEVEN SISTERS AKA STALIN’S SKYSCRAPERS AKA THE WEDDING CAKE BUILDINGS
Throughout the city you’ll find the Seven Sisters. It was Stalin who built these seven buildings just after WW II. At that time, sheer display of power. Classic examples of Stalinist architecture. The largest of the seven buildings is the main building of Moscow State University. We can definitely recommend to start your visit to Moscow at the university on Sparrow Hills. From Sparrow Hills you get a magnificent image of the city and immediately discover the other 6 sisters.
7. MOSCOW IN WINTER TIMES
Frankly, winters in Moscow are fierce. Temperatures down to -30 and worse are common. That’s cold, very cold! Those who suppress this extreme cold, are rewarded. Moscow in a winter coat is magical. It looks like and is a true fairy tale. Snowy Moscow shines – thanks to the numerous (Christmas) lighting (Russians are crazy about Christmas!) – adding an extra (magical) dimension to the city. Do not underestimate the cold however. Several layers of warm clothing are recommended. Because no matter how cold it is outside, inside the heating is always on fire. Furthermore, thermal underwear, a warm cover for your head, lip balm, comfortable, waterproof shoes / boots are an absolute must.
8. SHOPPING IN MOSCOW
Eliseevskiy, GUM, … at your service
Long queues for virtually empty shops with only a handful of products. That image belongs to the history of Moscow. Eliseevsky, similar to Harrods’ food hall, is well worth a visit. If not for the fine selection of products, certainly for the stunning interior. GUM, which can be found at the Red Square, is the mecca for every shopaholic. It’s the largest shopping mall in Moscow – slightly over-the-top – housed in a beautiful building.
The largest shopping mall in Moscow, the GUM.
9. RED OCTOBER DISTRICT
Krasny Oktyabr literally means “Red October”, once one of the most famous Soviet chocolate factories. Chocolate is long out of production. The old buildings now serve as a kind of big hipster gathering. You’ll find young designers, small shops with cute design stuff, art galleries, bars, yoga studios, restaurants and nightclubs. It’s the creative heart of Moscow and offers plenty.
10. RUSSIAN BANYA
A busy day in Moscow is best ended in a banya. A banya is the Russian equivalent of a sauna and also immediately one of the most famous traditions. People come here to recover from the flu, to detoxify, strengthen their immune system, to gossip or to discuss business. Tradition in a Russian banya is the use of ‘veniks’, best described as a bundle of birch twigs which they use to hit you all over your body. It looks painful, but it is said this has a healing effect. Try it!
Shots & Bites 