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Air Force Decorations Part 2 of 2

Air Force Decorations Part 1 of 2

For part 1 of this series I focused on my experience with how the Air Force Achievement Medal (AFAM), Air Force Commendation Medal (AFCM), and Meritorious Service Medal (MSM) are practically awarded. For part 2 my goal is to focus on some administrative tips for completing each level of decoration. As you progress from the AFAM to the MSM the quality of achievement should improve, and this is evident by the progressive level of the approval authority. The only way to achieve a consistent quality across all levels across the Air Force is to adhere to the guidance outlined in the AFI.

Achievement Decorations

For “achievement” types of decorations we should lean heavily on our NCOs and SNCOs. We need to ensure they are tracking and familiar with the unit precedent for each level of award, both in-house and with similar units across the Air Force. As I said in part 1, some examples of “achievements” recognized at the AFAM level are one year of base honor guard volunteer service or support for a contingency operation. For example, if you are at an overseas base and a Combatant Command called the wing you are assigned to into action, it may be appropriate to fight for your NCO to be awarded an AFAM if his duties supported the contingency mission.

Service Decorations

For “service” decorations it is generally accepted that a 3-4 year of duty warrants a decoration. The inclusive date for “service” decorations cannot overlap and the AFI provides very clear guidance for what the dates should be.

1.15.12. Inclusive Dates: The dates to be used for inclusive dates are as follows: 1.15.12.1. PCS: Start date is the date the member arrived to the station/unit; stop date is the date of final outprocessing. 1.15.12.2. PCA: Start date is the date the member arrived to the unit; stop date is the day prior to the effective date of the unit change. 1.15.12.3. Separation/Retirement: Start date is the date the member arrived to the station/unit; stop date is the day prior to the separation/retirement effective date. 1.15.12.5. Achievement: Start date is the date member inprocessed (TDY) or the date the special project or duty started; stop date is the final outprocessing day (TDY) or the date of when the special project or duty ended. 1.15.12.6. Extended Tour: Start date is the date the member arrived to the station/unit; stop date is the day prior to the 3- or 4-year point (see paragraph 1.16.1.6) AFI 36-2803, The Air Force Military Awards and Decorations Program

The “3-4 year” rule is not a hard rule, and the quality of performance during that period is important. Maybe a SrA truly deserves an AFCM after four years of service. Maybe a TSgt who failed two fitness assessments doesn’t deserve a decoration at all. Bottom line, it needs to make sense. Decorations have to be earned and are not a given.

Extended Tour Decorations

My second point for this post is the award of extended tour decorations. Typically an enlisted Airman serves a 3-4 year tour, but it is possible for someone to serve 6-8 years at the same base. Awarding an Airman with one decoration for eight years of service may send a negative message when the Airman is competing for a SNCO promotion board later down the road. Due to this, the AFI authorizes what are called “extended tour” (also known as “mid-tour”) decorations. With these you just have to be careful about what you fight for. For example, a SNCO who served five years at the same assignment may end up leaving with one extended tour AFCMs and one end of tour AFCM, versus 1 MSM for the five-year period. That may matter to the individual.

Opening and Closing Sentences

My final point for this post is about how the opening and closing statements for decorations are determined. The level of award coupled by the decoration reason determine the exact wording of the opening and closing statements. Luckily, this is populated automatically by the system we use to process decorations called vPC. It is just important for us to be mindful of what it is supposed to say so we can make sure it is correct.

The below examples are just the common examples outlined in the AFI 36-2803, The Air Force Military Awards and Decorations Program . Dig into the actual AFI for more details for your specific situation.

AFAM Opening Sentence

3.5.13.1. Opening Sentence: Captain Michelle Canmore distinguished herself by (meritorious service) OR (outstanding achievement), as (duty assignment, and office location) OR while assigned to (office location).

AFAM Closing Sentence

3.5.13.3. Closing Sentence. Confine the closing to one sentence which will personalize the summation.

AFCM Opening Sentence

3.5.12.1. Opening Sentence: Technical Sergeant Ami Ponde distinguished herself by (meritorious service) OR (outstanding achievement) OR (an act of courage) as (duty assignment and office) OR (while assigned to (office) from _____to ).

AFCM Closing Sentence

3.5.12.4. Closing Sentence: The distinctive accomplishments of Sergeant Ponde reflect credit upon herself and the United States Air Force.

3.5.12.4.2. Retirement Award: The distinctive accomplishments of Sergeant Ponde culminate a (long and) distinguished career in the service of her country and reflect credit upon herself and the United States Air Force.

3.5.12.4.3. Separation Award: The distinctive accomplishments of Sergeant Ponde while serving her country reflect credit upon herself and the United States Air Force.

MSM Opening Statement

3.5.9.1. Opening Sentence: Senior Master Sergeant Mickey Smith distinguished himself in the performance of outstanding service to the United States as (duty title) OR (while assigned to the (office) from _____to ).

MSM Closing Statement

3.5.9.3. Closing Sentence: The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Sergeant Smith reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force:

3.5.9.3.1. Retirement Award: The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Sergeant Smith culminate a (long and) distinguished career in the service of his country and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

3.5.9.3.2. Separation Award: The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Sergeant Smith while serving his country reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Administrative Instructions

Here are a few helpful tips from the AFI I have learned along the way. Reference paragraph 3.4.

The use of the dollar sign ($) is typically not recommended, however, will be accepted if used in the proper format ($10 million).
Numeric designators of units should read 3d Aerospace Wing, 4th Mission Support Group, etc.
Use Times New Roman (TMS RMN) 10- to 12-point size or comparable font.
Length of citation should not exceed:
3.4.8.1. MSM, AM, AAM, and AFCM citations: 14 lines maximum
3.4.8.2. AFAM citations: 11 or 12 lines maximum

The actual writing of a decoration is something that takes practice. In general you review all of the EPRs or OPRs for the time period, pick out the best bullets, then write them in narrative form. If there is a demand I will likely do a part 3 to this post at a later date.

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Former Enlisted

I have sort of an odd question when it comes to decorations. Is it possible for the flight commander to mail the actual physical award/certificate (example: AF achievement medal award) to the airman after they have separated? I ask because many of us who served at Beale AFB, CA never got our awards once we separated. They were held up at the base’s MPF. The approval process is very long. So, by the time the award is approved by the Group Commander, the airman is no longer active duty. Btw, everyone should try to stay away from Beale AFB, CA. Bad morale on base. Go to Travis AFB instead.

The short answer is yes. Currently I can only speak to those who use the vPC site process. Once MPS approves it a CSS member, either in MPF or at the squadron level, can pull the approved PDF of the decoration from vPC and print it on the decoration paper blank. My commander wet signs the decoration and gets it back to the CSS member to mail to the member. The CSS ideally has a valid/current mailing address on file… Ideally you get the decoration before you depart but yeah, some people suck.

The unit can even use government funds to mail it so it is just a matter of if the staff had the bandwidth. I’d reach out to the group exec and see if they can help you out, that isn’t right.

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The following Air Force Commendation Medal (AFCM) for meritorious service example has been taken from a Word Doc. If needed some location and mission information has been changed to protect myself and the people I have received the package from. If possible, a little insight will be given if it has been related.

If you have anything you would like to submit , please do so. Also, if you have found this information useful, please let me know. Everyone of these items has taken considerable amount of time to put together. Please use the Amazon.com ads on this site to help support it. All money gathered pays for hosting fees and domain fees. (HONESTLY, when I see money come in it also prompts me to work harder on the site.)

STAFF SERGEANT MERITORIOUS SERVICE 16 JUNE 1999 TO 17 JANUARY 2003

Staff Sergeant <FNAME> <MI>. <LNAME>, Jr. distinguished himself by meritorious service as Communications Computer Systems Controller, ##th Intelligence Squadron, Air Combat Command, <BASE> Air Force Base, California. During this period, Sergeant <LNAME>’s leadership and superb technical skill significantly impacted all areas of Distributed Ground Station-???’s communications infrastructure. Sergeant <LNAME> expertly managed a major self-help project constructing a new, state-of-the-art Technical Control Facility. He managed installation of $50,000 worth of new communications equipment, creating a high-tech communications facility in under 2 months, while saving the Air Force over $10,000. After the terrorist attacks of September 2001, he managed a multi-squadron team to provide analysts with emergency intelligence voice reporting capability to support Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, pushing the project from engineering to installation in just five hours, shaving weeks off the normal time required. Sergeant <LNAME>’s tenacity and determination were evident when he led the base’s Secure Internet Protocol Router Network infrastructure upgrade effort. He drove the project to fruition in only 24 hours instead of 2 weeks, increased the bandwidth by a factor of 30 and helped make possible the ground station’s OEF combat success. The distinctive accomplishments of Sergeant <LNAME> reflect credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

THE 10 BEST Moscow Shopping Malls

Shopping malls in moscow.

Gift & Specialty Shops
Art Galleries
Shopping Malls
Antique Stores
Flea & Street Markets
Farmers Markets
Department Stores
Shopping Tours
Factory Outlets
Fashion Shows & Tours
5.0 of 5 bubbles
4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
3rd Transport Ring (TTK)
District Central (TsAO)
District Western (ZAO)
Garden Ring
Good for a Rainy Day
Good for Kids
Budget-friendly
Good for Big Groups
Good for Couples
Adventurous
Hidden Gems
Honeymoon spot
Good for Adrenaline Seekers
Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Central Children's Store

2. Aviapark Shopping Mall

3. Mall Yevropeyskiy

4. Gostiny Dvor

5. Okhotny Ryad

6. Vegas Kashirskoye Shosse

7. Afimoll City

8. Shopping-Entertainment Complex Atrium

9. Mall Columbus

10. METROPOLIS shopping mall

11. Tsvetnoy Central Market

12. Bagration Bridge

13. Riviera

14. Paveletskaya Plaza Mall

15. Zolotoi Vavilon

16. Russian Watches

17. Crocus City Mall

18. Kuznetsovo Plaza

19. Raikin Plaza

20. Shopping and Entertainment Center Gagarinskiy

21. SM Okeaniya

22. techno mall gorbushkin dvor.

23. Shopping-Entertainment Center Festival

24. RIGAMALL

25. Tishinka Trade and Exhibition Complex

26. Shopping Center Kaleidoscope

28. VEGAS Crocus City

29. Mall Nikolskaya Plaza

30. RIO Dmitrovka

What travelers are saying.

Aviapark Mall
Central Children's Store
Gostiny Dvor
Vegas Kashirskoye Shosse
Shopping-Entertainment Complex Atrium
Techno Mall Gorbushkin Dvor
Mall Yevropeyskiy
Okhotny Ryad
Afimoll City

Moscow-City

Delovoy Tsentr • 3 min walk
Vystavochnaya • 4 min walk

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

Moscow-City - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

(0.08 km) Novotel Moscow City
(0.12 km) Icon Hostel
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(0.11 km) The 7 Hostels
(0.12 km) Hostel 47Nebo
(0.03 km) Pepebianco
(0.04 km) UDCcafe
(0.04 km) Healthy Food
(0.05 km) Garage-Bar Anton
(0.05 km) Zu Cafe
(0.08 km) GuiaRus - Day Tour
(0.13 km) Moscow City Museum
(0.11 km) Oblako 53
(0.14 km) Challenge Park
(0.22 km) PANORAMA360

The following Air Force Commendation Medal (AFCM) Template for has been taken from a Word file. Feel free to copy the template. Simply highlight the text, copy (CTRL-C) and paste it (CTRL-V) into a Word Document. Please be aware the templates can be used for Outstanding Achievement, Meritorious Service or Posthumous. Additionally, pay attention to the notes below the template.

(INSERT OLC HERE) STAFF SERGEANT JANE A. DOE OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT 30 OCTOBER 2001 TO 30 DECEMBER 2001

Opening Sentence. Staff Sergeant Jane A. Doe distinguished herself by (meritorious service) OR (outstanding achievement) OR (an act of courage) as (duty assignment and office) OR (while assigned to _____(office) from _____to _____). OR Staff Sergeant Jane A. Doe distinguished herself by (outstanding achievement) OR (an act of courage) (at or near) on (date). Narrative Description (Act of Courage). On that date, Sergeant Doe arrived on the scene of an automobile accident which seriously injured the driver of the vehicle. Without hesitation, Sergeant Doe went to the aid of the injured victim, expertly administered first aid, and remained with him until arrival of professional assistance. Narrative Description (Service or Achievement). During this period, the professional skill, leadership, and ceaseless efforts of Sergeant Doe contributed to the effectiveness and success of Air Force programs. Closing Sentence. The distinctive accomplishments of Sergeant Doe reflect credit upon herself and the United States Air Force. Act of Courage. By her prompt action and humanitarian regard for her fellowman, Sergeant Doe has reflected credit upon herself and the United States Air Force. Retirement Award. The distinctive accomplishments of Sergeant Doe culminate a (long and) distinguished career in the service of her country and reflect credit upon herself and the United States Air Force. Separation Award. The distinctive accomplishments of Sergeant Doe while serving her country reflect credit upon herself and the United States Air Force. Posthumous Award. The distinctive accomplishments of Sergeant Doe in the dedication of her service to her country reflect credit upon herself and the United States Air Force. Note 1: IAW with the AFI, there's no required format for the closing statement on the AFAM. However, there is nothing wrong with adding that specific closing to AFAM, but it's not mandatory. Must use Times New Roman 10 or 12 point font Note 2: Text must fit (without touching) between the words “ACCOMPLISHMENTS” and “GIVEN UNDER MY HAND”. Note 3: No more than 13 lines when using 10 Pt Font for the AFAM.

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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!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

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.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

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!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

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 .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

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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

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage and 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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