As the frosty wind whistles through the streets and snowflakes dance in the air, Moscow transforms into a winter wonderland. From stunning ice sculptures to exhilarating skiing trails, this city offers a plethora of captivating winter destinations that are sure to leave you breathless. So bundle up and join us as we take you on an adventure through some of Moscow’s best winter spots – guaranteed to make your heart skip a beat!
How to experience Moscow’s best winter destinations
Sprawling across more than 600 square kilometres, Moscow is one of the largest and most diverse cities in Europe. With mountains in the east, forested hills in the south, and vast tracts of greenery along the river banks, it’s no wonder that the city has earned itself the nickname “the Green heart of Europe.”
Moscow’s winter destinations offer a sweeping variety of experiences for everyone. For those who want to curl up with a good book by a roaring fire, head to a ski resort inSnowy Russia. If you’re more adventurous and want to try cross-country skiing or snowboarding in natural surroundings, head to one of Russia’s great wilderness areas like Vladimir Putin’s Baranof Island off northeastern Siberia or Kamchatka’s Tolbachik Volcano National Park.
In Moscow itself, visitors can enjoy many attractions even during winter months such as sledding on Red Square; ice skating at GUM department store; going on a Christmas Market tour; touring St Basil Cathedral; and visiting Lenin’s Mausoleum or Kremlin Armoury Museum. And if all that isn’t enough to keep you entertained, take a stroll through the brightly lit streets of Novogradsky Prospekt lined with stores selling top Russian designers like Armani Exchange and Dolce & Gabbana.
The 5 best places to visit in Moscow in winter
Moscow is a winter wonderland that comes to life with plumes of snow in every direction. Here are the 5 best places to visit in Moscow in winter:
1. Red Square. To experience the stunningly beautiful snowflakes falling all around on the Kremlin, head to Red Square! Visitors can get up close and personal with soldiers manning the Kremlin’s many gates, or take photos of themselves under the mesmerizing blanket of snow. The square is also a great spot to warm up with some Russian tea and hardy snacks before exploring further.
2. Gorki Park. Who says you have to leave Moscow for icy adventures? Bring the cold weather indoors by checking out Gorki Park, one of Moscow’s largest urban parks boasting plenty of trails for skiing, sledding and skating through trees adorned with icicle lights. This is an ideal location for a family outing – there are also plenty of playgrounds, cafés and restaurants nearby if you need a break from sledding or skiing!
3. Novodevichy Convent . If you’re looking for a more über-romantic experience, try visiting Novodevichy Convent in downtown Moscow – it’s said to be one of Russia’s most haunted locations! The convent was founded in 1595 by Tsar Ivan the Terrible as his own private residence (hence its name). Today, visitors can explore its unusually spacious halls, winding staircases and grand interiors covered in centuries of dust and ornamentation. Be sure to stay late in the evening for the convent’s captivating light show!
4. St Basil’s Cathedral . When it comes to beautiful outdoor cathedrals, few can compete with St Basil’s Cathedral on Red Square. This towering landmark was built between 1852 and 1869 in a neo-Byzantine style and is made up of more than 6,000 different pieces of granite and marble. Even if you’re not religious, a visit to this impressive cathedral is worth it – just consider yourself lucky if there’s snow on the ground when you arrive!
5. Botanical Gardens . Moscow’s Botanical Gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll in winter – not only are they filled with stunning specimens of flora, but there are also several large ponds, twisters and ChessBotanical Theatre all worth exploring. Whether you’re studying plants or just taking a break from city life, these gardens make for a lovely afternoon out.
Useful information about Moscow’s winter destinations
If you’re looking for some snowy fun in Moscow this winter, here are some of the best destinations to visit.
1. Kemerovo Oblast: Kemerovo is a lively city with plenty of attractions and activities to keep visitors entertained all winter long. There’s snow skiing, sledding, and ice skating at various resorts in the area, as well as cultural events and shops that are open during the winter season. Kemerovo Oblast also has some beautiful towns and villages that make for great photo opportunities!
2. Vladimir Oblast: Vladimir is another place with many things to offer visitors in the winter months. With its extensive ski resorts and miles of trails, Vladimir can provide a lot of excitement for skiers and riders alike. The city has a festive atmosphere during the holidays, and there are lots of restaurants and cafes open during the winter season to keep you warm.
3. Moscow: Moscow’s attractions don’t stop in the winter. Take a stroll through the gardens at Florogical hesky Gardens or visit the Hermitage Museum, both of which are open throughout the winter. And if you’re looking for a winter adventure, take a scenic snow train ride or drive out to places like Krasnaya Polyana or Karelia to see snow-covered forests and wild landscapes that are usually inaccessible during the summer.
Final thoughts on the 5 best places to visit in Moscow in winter.
1. Red Square
Moscow’s most iconic spot, Red Square is the perfect place to start your winter explorations of the city. While it can be pretty cold and windy, there’s nothing like a frosty Moscow morning with a view of St Basil’s Cathedral in the background. Bonus: The square is also full of history and perfect for a photo op!
2. Christ the Saviour Cathedral
If you’re looking for an Instagram-worthy skyline backdrop, check out Moscow’s famed Christ the Saviour Cathedral. Though it can be quite chilly up near the summit, taking in all of Moscow’s shimmering spires from below is well worth it – especially on a clear day!
3. Gorky Park
If you’re after a wild winter adventure with plenty of activities on offer, head to Gorky Park – one of Moscow’s largest municipal parks. Whether you’re keen to sled down its enormous hills or take part in a giant snowball fight, there’s something for everyone here!
4. Ice Skating at Luzhniki Stadium
Okay so this isn’t actually located in Moscow proper … but trust us when we say that ice skating at Russia’s premier hockey stadium is one unforgettable experience! With some truly jaw-dropping views across town and an incredibly festive atmosphere, why not make an appearance during Russia vs Sweden match (which takes place in the winter)?
5. Baker Street Station
This might not technically be located in Moscow, but it’s about as quintessential a Moscow experience as you can get. A must-see for train enthusiasts and Sherlock fans alike, Baker Street Station is a beautifully restored Edwardian building that once served as the headquarters of the British Secret Service. So whether you’re looking to take in a fascinating history lesson or just have some giggles, this is one spot not to be missed!