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The Best Travel Vest for Women: 15 Cozy Reader Picks

Backpacking , FASHION , Sweaters & Jackets , Travel Clothing

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Do you need a little extra warmth on your next trip to fight the cold winter or cool spring weather? TFG readers recommend their favorite travel vest womens styles!

Travel Vests

Written By: Tae Haahr

Table Of Contents

A vest is an excellent addition to your travel wardrobe. They help keep you warm when you’re outdoors, easy to layer so you can adjust your temperature, and many of them are built to be packable—they can be folded up into a bag!

But there are a ton of vests out there on the market. Some are great for a chilly outdoor hike, others perfect for a night on safari . With so many options out there, we asked TFG readers to share their top picks so you can make your own choice!

What Are the Best Womens Vests for Travel?

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince

Quince Lightweight Travel Vest

The Quince lightweight down vest is a huge fave in the TFG community. This light vest is a chic option that’s made to be worn everywhere! 

It’s warm yet slim, with a stretchy hem and armholes for a comfy and extra warming fit, while side pockets and a zip closure add to the function. Plus, it’s incredibly light and packable, so it’s easy to take with you and pull out whenever needed. 

This womens long vest is designed to be layered, so it’s great for everything from freezing winters to that awkward transition between seasons. And on those colder days, you can zip the neck up for some extra protection!

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Amazon 

32 Degrees Ultra-Lightweight Packable Down Vest

If you’re looking for a cozy vest for those cool-weather outings, then the 32 Degrees Vest  is a great choice. It comes in several different colors to match your ideal look. It is “perfect for layering and very packable.”

TFG readers love this vest, with one saying, “I love these packable vests—I wear them at work in the winter for layering. Took one to Europe and wore it in Ireland … had one in my bag in NYC and put it on when it suddenly got chilly under my denim jacket. Such a great item.”

It comes in sizes XS-XXL and if down isn’t your thing, 32 Degrees also offer this non-down alternative vest too.

These are the most lightweight denim jackets according to TFG readers!

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Amazon | Eddie Bauer

Eddie Bauer Puffer Vests for Women – CirrusLite

Eddie Bauer down vests come recommended by TFG readers due to the fact that it’s easy to pack into a carrying bag. It’s water-repellent and machine washable and will help you keep warm in the cold weather. 

This vest comes in several different colors. It has zip pockets, stand-up collar, and elasticized cuffs. One TFG reader shares, “Eddie Bauer packable vest is a great option. I love it.”

You’ll want to look your best when you travel! Read my travel tips to Pack Light Stylishly !

Eddie Bauer Fireside Plush Vest

The fleece Eddie Bauer vest is perfect for warding off the cold while you’re out-and-about. It’s a terrific choice if you want to layer, but it’s still soft and thick enough to keep it cozy.

TFG readers love these fleece vests for women. One shares, “ Coziest vest ever! Looks great worn with my tshirts , sweatshirts , sweaters , and flannel. Great layer for crisp fall weather! .”

These are the most fashionable fleece jackets recommended by our readers!

Shop: Amazon  | Columbia Sizes: XXS-XXL Regular | XS-XL Petite | 1X-3X Plus

Columbia Benton (Plus Size Women’s Vests Available)

Columbia makes one of the best women’s vests for fall. It comes in 32 colors and is made of 100% polyester fleece. You can get the Columbia Women’s Benton Springs Vest in sizes XS-XL, petite XSP-XLP, and plus sizes 1X-3X. It features two zippered side pockets, a full zip closure, and a collared neck.

Readers say to add this to your list of women’s spring vests. One says “I wear my vest constantly.” Another reader adds, “I have a fleece vest and wear it all the time in the fall or early spring with a thin lining sleeve so I can push the sleeves up if needed.”

Our readers share their top picks for lightweight packable rain jackets , perfect for your next trip!

Shop Land’s End: Sizes XS-XL Regular |  1X-3X Plus

Lands’ End Packable Light Vest

Lands’ End makes warm vests for ladies to wear on their next outdoor venture. It’s filled with down to give you a warm and layerable piece of clothing. This is a longer vest that hits below your hips, but it has a two-way zipper so you can wear it closed to be more cozy or open when the weather lets up.

One TFG reader shares, “Have a Lands’ End tunic length packable down vest. It’s warm enough with some butt coverage and goes with anything dressy to casual. I can pack it into its own pocket. To pack it, the key is to just keep rolling and squeezing the air out.”

Readers love these cashmere sweaters for their polished and timeless look, incredible warmth, and versatility.

Shop Sizes XXS-3X:   Athleta

Athleta Downtown Women’s Quilted Vest

If you’re looking for a more fashionable style, then look no further than this Athleta Water Resistant Downtown Puffer Vest . It’s a quilted vest that features side panel stitching and a flattering curved hem to give a neat silhouette. This is a warm gilet that you’ll turn to from spring, right through to fall.

Our readers share their favorite brands for the best travel blazer !

Shop: Amazon  | Columbia Sizes: XS-XXL Regular | 1X-3X Plus

Columbia Puffy Vests for Women

The Columbia Women’s Heavenly Vest  is one of the best puffer vests for women on the market. It’s great to layer while you’re out on the trail. And it’s lightweight and thin so you can stick it under your heavier jacket.

TFG readers love these women’s winter vests because they’re quite warm. One reader shares, “Love Columbia with Omni Heat on the inside. I hate being cold!” The heat technology is a brilliant addition to colder weather travel, especially if you’re spending a lot of time outside.

Read this post to learn about some of our favorite winter jackets for travel!

Shop Sizes XS-3XL: Amazon  | The North Face

The North Face Puffy Women’s Travel Vest with Pockets

If you’re looking for comfortable and warm down vests, look no further than The North Face Women’sThermoball . It’s a quality product that’s both lightweight and made of superior material. Plus, it has a zippered closure to keep you warm.

One TFG reader shares that it is “great if you’re at the outdoorsy end of the market.” Overall, a high quality that looks flattering, and you can get it in 10 colors.

See our readers’ picks for the best packable down jacket for travel!

Shop Sizes S-XXL: SCOTTeVEST |   Amazon  

Scottevest Warm Womens Vests with RFID

The Scottevest RFID Vest comes highly recommended by TFG readers due to its 18 different pockets where you can store items in as you’re out and about. One reader does warn that “it’s heavy even without much in it. But having a vest with pockets is great.”

One reader comments that this vest was invaluable on her summer trip to Scotland because they appreciated “the freedom of not needing a purse.”

It’s great to layer with it, one reader shares, “I’ve loaded the thing up with budget airlines to bypass weight limits and such to get through security and on the plane. No one weighs it!” This comes in sizes S-XXL .

Read this post on how to pack a bulky winter jacket in a suitcase!

Shop Sizes XS-3XL: Amazon | The North Face

The North Face Aconcagua Down Vest

TFG readers love this brand and this classic  North Face puffer vest is a comfortable and nice-looking puffer and it’s equipped with lots of insulation, making it an ideal layer. One reviewer shares, “ This vest is super lightweight and the material is very soft and flexible and this vest fits true to size. I’m so happy with this purchase!”

Shop Sizes XXS-XXL: Uniqlo 

Uniqlo Women Ultralight Down Vest

The Uniqlo ultralight vest can be stored into a small carrying pouch, making it super easy to pack and bring along on your next trip. It’s made of durable and water-repellent coating. This puffer vest, while packable, definitely has all the hallmarks of being warm, with a 640 fill power, or more. 

One TFG reader shares, “I’ve got a Uniqlo vest that I’ve worn under my leather jacket for extra warmth when out and about. It’s great for travel since it compresses down to nothing, and since I got it in burgundy, it spices up my wardrobe.” Another reader adds, “Can’t believe how warm it kept me.”

Check out our selections of lightweight fall jackets for your next trip!

Shop Sizes XS-XXL:  Amazon

BALEAF Women’s Lightweight  Vest with Hidden Pockets

The BALEAF softshell vest has an internal pocket to hide your favorite valuable items. Made from  wind proof and water resistance fabric, this women’s vest jacket can effectively keep you dry all-day . Plus, the added high collar helps block the wind and keeps you warmer longer.

TFG readers adore this piece, with one sharing, “Love my BALEAF vest. Super comfy and keeps me warm without getting too hot.” You can get it in 6 colors too so there is a style for everyone.

These are the most packable and beautiful cardigans that you’ll want for your next trip!

Shop L.L.Bean: Sizes XXS-XL Regular & Petite | 1X-3X Plus

L.L. Bean Fleece Light Weight Vest (Petite and Plus Sizes Available)

The L.L.Bean fleece vest is slightly-fitted, easy to layer, and one of the most popular warm weather vests, due to the PrimaLoft insulation and the outer layer is water-resistant.

One TFG reader shares, “This vest is my go-to when I travel. It has two zippered pockets that are roomy, and is also long enough for me to wear it with leggings, is pretty wrinkle-proof, and has a zip-off hood. I have two and wear them all the time.”

Shop Sizes 0-14: Lululemon 

Lululemon Pack It Down Vest

The Lululemon Down for It All vest is a great addition to your travel wardrobe. It is a water-resistant model using Glyde fabric. It has an easy-access pocket, plus a secret hidden one, so you can hide your credit cards and such while traveling. And it packs into a handy sack. 

One TFG reader shares, “Can’t go wrong with Lululemon.” It comes in three cute colors, including lunar rock, chianti, and black, so you can truly make your personal style shine.

Wondering what to wear on a rainy day when traveling? Check out this post !

Product Comparison Chart

Compass Rose Packing Cubes

How to Pack Your Vests

Many of our readers use packing cubes to roll up and organize their clothes. Compass Rose packing cubes allow you to do so by number and color so you know where you packed everything, even when you use the cubes to separate outfits. Learn more in the video below.

Learn about our hacks with packing cubes in this video !

We also put together a five-part YouTube series showing the different methods of using packing cubes for travel. If you use this specific packing strategy, packing cubes can also compress your belongings. This is the secret to traveling carry-on only!

What’s your favorite travel vest? Share and comment below!

For more travel jackets, please read:

• Best Winter Parkas
• Classic Trench Jackets 
• Cozy Women’s Wool Coats 
• Most Recommended Waterproof Jackets for Every Adventure

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11 BEST Travel Vests [2023 Guide!]

Travel vests have earned a place on many frequent traveler’s kit lists because they can be so extraordinarily useful when out and about and away from home.

We all have those bits and pieces we need to keep with us when we’re traveling – from passport and cash to memory cards, earphones, and maps. The only real alternative to a travel jacket is a pair of pants with a hell of a lot of pockets or a backpack.

Brands big and small have cottoned on, and there are now a whole range of different designs and patterns on the market? So which should you choose? We’ve sorted the best of the bunch and present them to you below.

Quick Summary: The Best Travel Vests

#1 –  Columbia Silver Ridge

Best men’s travel vest.

Why does the Silver Ridge make it to our top stop of best men’s travel vest? Well, we think this travel vest by Columbia offers the best combination of utility, flexibility, and style!

It has a sleek slimline design which means you could easily where this about your home town within looking out of place, but the vest still offers a good number of pockets, as well as other features.

Made from durable ripstop nylon, the vest includes mesh pockets, zippered security pockets, and hand pockets too. On top of that, the vest is constructed with Omni-Wick moisture technology to keep you dry in the heat, and contains UPF 50 blocking power too!

• Great combination of utility and style
• Good number of pockets
• Comprises Omni-Wick and UPF 50 technology
• Pockets aren’t as large as other vests
• No RFID protection
• Polyester abrasion resistant fleece
• Cold wash only

Is the Columbia Silver Ridge for you?

A solid travel vest purchase is ever there was one, Columbia’s Silver Ridge looks great one, and many of the features you’d expect to see on a travel vest, from pockets to weather protection. If you’re looking for a men’s travel vest, this should definitely be your first port of call!

Recommended – Want to get your kayak on? Have a peek at our list of the coolest inflatable kayaks on the market!

#2 –  ExOfficio Flyq Lite

Best women’s travel vest.

Matching the men’s Silver Ridge in the style stakes is the Flyq Lite by ExOfficio (which also comes as a men’s version). But the Flyq Lite is also a vest that is lightweight and packs down very easily into a bag when you don’t need it.

Despite the sleek shape this vest comes equipped with 11 (yes, 11!) different pockets, including one for your hands, another with RFID protection to secure credit cards and personal data against scanning attacks, and one intended for sunglasses that is lined with microfleece to prevent scratching.

Microfleece also lines the collar, for a soft feel against the skin of your neck!

• More than 10 pockets
• RFID protection
• Microfleece in sunglasses pouch and around neck
• No main zipper shield
• No all pockets zippered
• Lacks UPF blocking

Is the ExOfficio Flyq Lite for you?

If you’re a woman who wants to maintain her style while traveling, but also wants all the advantages a travel vest offers, the Flyq Lite by ExOfficio would make a fine choice for you. As well as the good-looking design, there’s everything you could want in a travel vest, including RFID protection!

Recommended reading – Looking for an incredible travel daypack? These are the best daypacks for travelers.

#3 –  Fox Fire Thunder River

Best travel vest for hot weather.

Hot weather brings with it its own set of issues, but you still have to have something to help store all those little bits and pieces you need while traveling.

For that reason, you’re going to want to find a travel vest specifically designed to help you cope with what the sun can do! The fact this vest by Fox Fire is made from natural cotton means it’s breathable, light to wear, and kind to the skin.

The back of the vest is also partially made from mesh for even better ventilation. The Thunder River vest boasts a good number of differently sized pockets too, so there really is a place for everything!

• Specifically designed for hot weather
• Natural cotton
• Mesh back for ventilation
• Lots of different sized pockets
• Shortened main zipper
• Waist adjuster may irritate some

Is the Fox Fire Thunder River vest for you?

Specifically designed for those time when heat can become a problem – hiking and safari – its no surprise this is our go-to travel vest for the hot weather! Fox Fire has managed to create a perfect balance between lightness for the heat, and pockets – the reason you were looking for a travel vest in the first place.

Editor’s Note – Check our these amazing travel hammocks for all budgets!

#4 –  Gihou Lightweight Denim Vest

Best lightweight travel vest.

Denim might not always be considered the lightest of materials to use for a lightweight travel vest, but don’t let that thought put you off this travel vest by Gihou!

With a slightly more utilitarian look than some of the other travel vests on our list so far, the Gihou makes an excellent option for those getting out into the wilds. It has an incredible 16 pockets, four of which are hidden internally.

They come in all different shapes and sizes, and a combination of zippered and Velcro closures, providing a good mix of security and ease of access. There are also a couple of metal D-loops by the shoulders for hanging or connecting items such as keys.

• Lightweight denim design
• Good for the outdoors
• 16 pockets, 4 internal
• Zipper and Velcro closures
• Utilitarian look
• Mid-length design
• 80% polyester + 20% nylon

Is the Gihou Lightweight Denim Vest for you?

If you’re looking for a travel vest that’s going to have no trouble dealing with time in the great outdoors, this travel vest by Gihou is a great option. Though made from tough denim it is also lightweight, and offers its users an incredible array of pockets of varying sizes and closures!

#5 –  Izod Spectator

Best fleece travel vest.

The Izod Spectator travel vest crosses the divide between travel wear and casual wear – to great effect. Comprising of an on trend two-tone design that won’t have you feeling like you stand out, there are three pockets built into this travel vest.

There’s a nice high collar which will keep any draft away from your neck, and a full-length zipper which will help with controlling your temperature whatever the weather is going.

Comfortable, and lightweight, this fleece travel vest will keep you snug, and allow you to carry those essentials without the need for another bag.

• Lined with fleece for warmth
• Full length zipper
• Lightweight
• Just three pockets
• Not for hotter destinations
• Fit is a little large

Is the Izod Spectator for you?

With warming fleece, the Izod Spectator travel vest is an ideal purchase for anyone who expects to find themselves hanging around in places that might turn a little on the cold side. Its three pockets can’t match the 16-26 of other travel vests on our list but should provide more than enough space for all your absolute essentials.

We are obsessed with backpacks – we’ve tried them all! And our favourite carry on backpack in the WORLD is the Nomatic Travel Backpack.  This backpack has revolutionized the backpack industry and will change the way you travel forever :) Check it out here!

#6 – Weekender Traveler Air

Best of the rest.

The Weekender Traveler Air is another of our more utilitarian travel vests. Firstly, its quick drying and resistant to stains too, meaning you can use it without worrying that you’re going to cause any permanent damage.

It has adjustable side straps to ensure personalized comfort, as well as shoulder padding and rubber shoulder grips to help prevent rubbing with or without an added backpack.

There are large areas of mesh to help with ventilation and breathability, and good-sized pockets that take up the majority of the space on the jacket’s front, truly providing space for anything you might need to hand while out and about.

• Quick to dry
• Stain resistant
• Side straps
• Large pockets
• Shortened zipper
• Pockets are quite bulky

Is the Weekender Traveler Air for you?

The Weekender Traveler Air is a good all-round travel vest for getting into the wilds. Breathable, stain resistant and quick drying, the weather won’t hold any problems for you, while the front is full-to-bursting with large pockets that can take everything you can possibly need, from camera equipment to fishing tackle!

P.S. – Protect your cash while traveling with our EPIC guide to the most awesome travel money belts!

#7 – Autumn Ridge Traders Safari Vest

As a specifically designed safari travel vest, you can be sure this vest by Autumn Ridge Traders is ready for the heat of the African plains should need be.

The vest’s back panel can be removed and zippered into a pocket to reveal a ventilating mesh, while the 100% polyester construction makes this safari vest water resistant and quick drying. And as for pockets?

The Safari Vest has 16 different pockets to choose between, from smaller pockets suitable for SD cards to much larger ones that would easily take a compact digital camera. Closed by a mixture of zippers and Velcro, you can be sure your stuff will always be safe as well as being close to hand too!

• Dedicated safari vest
• Removable back panel
• Polyester construction

Is the Autumn Ridge Traders Safari Vest for you?

Not surprisingly – as it made it to our list in the first place! – the Autumn Ridge Traders Safari Vest is another great option travel vest. Specifically intended for use on the hot plains for safaris, this travel vest nicely blends the need to keep cool and the desire to leave nothing essential behind as you head out.

#8 – SCOTTeVEST RFID Travel Vest

With versions for both men and women, the SCOTTeVEST RFID Travel Vest has more features than the headline RFID protection that will keep your personal and credit card details safe from digital hackers.

Fully machine washable, this vest includes a Teflon coating which makes it both water and stain resistant, for instance. There are an incredible 26 pockets overall, including a clear windowed pocket intended for your touchscreen smartphone.

There are also hidden spaces that allow you to thread through a pair of earphones without having the wires endlessly flapping about and getting caught up. That’s what we call a travel vest!

• Men and women’s versions available
• Teflon coated
• 26 tech-friendly pockets!
• No for going on safari
• No zipper shield
• Fit a little off

Is the SCOTTeVEST RFID Travel Vest for you?

This is a great travel vest for tech lovers due to features such as the clear windowed smartphone pocket among its 26 pockets, and special passage for earphone wires too. But its RFID blocking and protecting capabilities means this is a serious contender as a travel vest for anyone who travels with credit cards or passport – which, let’s face it, is all of us!

Pro Travel Tip  – Travel pillows are a game changer. Check out our pro guide to the best travel pillows.

#9 – AyeGear V26

The AyeGear V26 is the only travel vest on our list that is officially designated as unisex in design, but that takes absolutely nothing away from the quality of this travel vest.

Breathable and machine washable, the AyeGear V26 consists of 26 different pockets, spread between offering access internally and externally. There’s a dedicated smartphone pocket which allows you to use your screen without having to ever remove the phone from its pocket.

There’s also a pocket at the rear capable of taking a 12” laptop or tablet, though we think this is more for when holding the vest in your hand rather than when wearing it. All the same, the AyeGear V26 has some clever features – did we mention the retractable cord for keys?

• Machine washable
• Touch sensitive smartphone pocket
• 26 pockets overall
• Only available in black
• Laptop pocket not really useable
• Not for the great outdoors

Is the AyeGear V26 for you?

It’s difficult to argue against a travel vest that boasts a combined internal and external pocket count of 26, including a touch-sensitive pocket specifically designed for using a smartphone without the need to hold it! But what’s more, the AyeGear V26 is also breathable and machine washable. What more could you possibly want?

#10 – Rothco Undercover

Coming in a choice of three colors – black, khaki, and olive drab – the Undercover travel vest by Rothco is a subtle and unflashy vest, which is no bad thing when you’re traveling in an unknown place.

There are a dozen different pockets of various sizes to choose between, including a hidden pocket on the inside of the vest intended to fit your passport or other valuables such as your credit cards.

There’s also a tablet sized pocket for keeping your electronics secure while on the move, and pass-through ports so the wires of earphones can be threaded through the vest without them hanging and getting in the way.

• Subtle styling
• Hidden passport pocket
• Ports for threading through earphones
• No zipper weather shield
• Not water proof

Is the Rothco Undercover travel vest for you?

We like the subtle styling of the Rothco Undercover travel vest, which won’t drawer any undue attention your way while you’re traveling. There’s a good number of pockets, including an all-important hidden passport pocket, and a handy port system for keeping your earphones out of the way too!

#11 – Beat The World Travel Vest

This vest by Beat The World intends to be all things to all men – the travel jacket that no man can do without. Does it achieve this? We think it comes pretty close! First, there’s the brilliant price point.

Then there’s the huge range of colors the travel vest is available in – want a bright red travel vest? No problem! Then there’s the fact this is a lightweight number, weighing just a few ounces.

And then, of course, there are the pockets, securable with metal zippers for extra safety while moving about!

• Good all-round travel vest
• Excellent price
• Wide range of color options
• Zippered pockets
• Intended for men only
• 90% polyester + 10% nylon
• Fit runs large
• Less durable than other vests on our list

Is the Beat The World Travel Vest for you?

Need a good all-round travel vest? One you can use while out hiking, out in the yard, or while doing the DIY? Then it’s difficult to beat the Beat The World Travel Vest! The pockets with metal zippers will keep anything you want to keep close nice and safe, while the expansive color range means you can still express your own personality at the same time.

Which is the best travel vest for you?

We’ve selected the best travel vests on the market and put them all in one place to save you the time and effort of having to do this yourself! From big brands such as Columbia to newer or lesser known brands, each of the travel vests you find here has made it onto our list with good reasoning in mind. The only real question that remains is which is the best travel vest for you?

Editor’s Note  – No matter where you are traveling, you NEED to have  great travel insurance . We have personally tested TONS of travel insurance companies, and can say without a doubt that World Nomads is the absolute best (and most affordable!). Fill out the form below to get a quote.

***Disclaimer*** Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you book your accommodation through the site, One Weird Globe will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you . Your support helps me keep the site going :)

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I Cracked the Code to the Perfect Travel Outfit

The elusive "perfect travel outfit"—it's something we've discussed, debated, and broken down quite a bit before. What does an effortless yet polished and, above all else, comfy travel outfit really look like, and why does it seem nearly impossible to accomplish ? Non-stretch high-rise jeans are out of the question, no matter how long you're in transit. On the other hand, it's this writer's opinion that wearing straight-up leggings isn't the most stylish option. Though, I'll admit it may be the comfiest.

After countless flights and thousands of miles flown, I think I've finally found the answer to the travel-outfit conundrum: knit sets . The matching sweater-and-pants sets just might be the stylish solution to all those times you wore  sweatpants but ended up feeling less than put-together upon arrival. With so many fun, colorful sets to choose from right now, there's no reason not to feel ultra-comfy when you're traveling. (They make pretty great loungewear , too.) We love them styled with simple white sneakers and a few dainty jewelry staples. From rainbow stripes to cheery colors and clean neutrals, shop the coolest knit sets below.

The polo collar really makes this knit feel fresh.

Easy and chic.

A touch more elevated than your basic tank.

The 2021 wardrobe basic to end them all.

Because comfy doesn't have to mean boring.

I can't decide what I like better, the color or the neckline.

Donni has really mastered cool loungewear.

Case in point.

This color feels versatile and exciting all at once.

All about that slit hem.

Imagine all the layering possibilities.

Just as cool with knit bottoms as it is with jeans.

Pair them with the above top for a comfy but stylish vibe.

Because vests are definitely still going strong.

The belted waist adds some nice structure to these.

Leave it to Simon Miller to create the coolest color palettes.

Never knew I needed knit bike shorts until now.

It's all about the lettuce hem here.

Nordstrom's knitwear is really popping off lately.

The ideal pants to wear with white sneakers.

Compliment-worthy.

Now you're all set to look stylish en route to your next destination.

This story was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Anna is an editor on the fashion team at Who What Wear and has been at the company for over five years, having begun her career in the Los Angeles office before relocating to New York, where she's currently based. Having always been passionate about pursuing a career in fashion, she built up her experience interning at the likes of Michael Kors, A.L.C., and College Fashionista before joining the team as a post-graduate assistant editor. Anna has penned a number of interviews with Who What Wear's cover stars over the years, including A-listers Megan Fox, Issa Rae, and Emma Chamberlain. She's earned a reputation for scouting new and emerging brands from across the globe and championing them to our audience of millions. While fashion is her main wheelhouse, Anna led the launch of WWW Travels last year, a new lifestyle vertical that highlights all things travel through a fashion-person lens. She is passionate about shopping vintage, whether it be at a favorite local outpost or an on-the-road discovery, and has amassed a wardrobe full of unique finds. When she's not writing, you can find her shooting street imagery on her film camera, attempting to learn a fourth or fifth language, or planning her next trip across the globe.

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Moscow Travel Guide

• Guide to Russia
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Why travel to Moscow

Contrasts: 12th century monasteries and some of the tallest skyscrapers in Europe can be found side-by-side in this complex and captivating city. The diversity of this mega-city is astounding. Only a few steps away from the solemn red facade of the Kremlin and the sounds of righteous church bells, a buzzing night scene and alternative-fashion boutiques can be found.

Culture: In Moscow only the best goes. Be it a theatre, restaurant or gallery, the standards are certain to be world-class. The Bolshoi ballet company is reputed to be even better than the Mariinsky’s and “MMOMA” (Moscow’s museum of modern art) exhibits works of art as profound as any that could be found in the famed MOMA.

Convenience: Unlike the rest of Russia, it’s easy enough to get by with just English in Moscow and, driving excepted, it is surprisingly safe: the murder rate is lower than in some of America’s major cities.

Top Sights in Moscow

St. Basil’s

Novodevichy Convent

MORE SIGHTS

• Moscow Fact File
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• Arriving in Moscow
• Getting Around
• Moscow Museums
• Nightlife in Moscow
• Moscow Restaurants
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• Outside Moscow

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Why visit Moscow

It would take more than two days to walk around the perimeter of the biggest city in Europe, Moscow. Many of its inhabitants barely know what’s beyond the few blocks around their flat and there are so many attractions that it’s almost impossible to know where to start. If there is such a thing as an antidote to boredom, Moscow City is it. The mind-boggling range and diversity of things to do, places to eat, parks, historical monuments and more means that a vacation in Moscow has a wealth of activities to offer for every type of traveler, from young families to retirees.

Reasons to Vacation in Moscow in 2022

The Bolshoi theatre is familiar to almost everyone as Russia’s grandest theatre, but what people don’t know is that there are many more bolshoi (big) sites in Moscow that are worth travelling all the way to Moscow to see. For more than 100 years, the world’s biggest bell has been hidden behind the Kremlin’s walls and inside Moscow’s main park (which is bigger than some countries!) there is the world’s largest outdoor ice-rink. Travelers that visit Moscow can stay at the Izmailovo, Europe’s biggest hotel, then eat at the largest and most historic McDonald’s in Europe and after that have fun at the largest European indoor theme park!

Ancient Past & Stunning Architecture:

As those who travel to Moscow will see, just because Moscow is a city of record-breaking, glitzy high-rises doesn’t mean that there is no history. On the famous Arbat street, time-worn, wooden storehouses and century-old churches are squashed up against grey, soviet blocks which are then towered over by 21st century office-blocks. Unlike its much younger sibling, St Petersburg, Moscow’s roots stretch way back to the 12th century. Within the walls of the Kremlin, the city’s oldest building the Cathedral of Assumption can be admired in all its 500+ years of age.

Culture & Convenience

For a foreigner who has never visited Russia, Moscow is the perfect stepping stone into this great land of mystery. From the country’s best classical ballet troupes to snow-white troikas trotting through the parks, all the highlights of Russian culture can be had in Moscow without any of the complications that would be expected in other, less developed regions of Russia.

Cheap as Caviar

In Moscow, everything is bargain when with the current foreign exchange rates being what they are. Even caviar doesn’t seem so dear when the exchange rate is at 60rub to the dollar, so go on indulge yourself! Take your 2022 vacation in Moscow and have the best of both worlds, with European luxury at very affordable prices.

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

We had a great time both in Moscow and St Petersburg. Your travel agency was excellent in coordinating the whole trip. Everything worked like clockwork. The guides assigned to us were very nice and friendly. They had a great knowledge of their subjects. The cars and the drivers were great. The hotels were good and the itinerary was good. All in all, it was a wonderful experience. It was nice dealing with you and your company. Thank you very much for a great Russian experience. Have a great future ahead

• 31 reviews of Express to Russia Moscow Tours in Moscow

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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In Transit: Notes from the Underground

Jun 06 2018.

Spend some time in one of Moscow’s finest museums.

Subterranean commuting might not be anyone’s idea of a good time, but even in a city packing the war-games treasures and priceless bejeweled eggs of the Kremlin Armoury and the colossal Soviet pavilions of the VDNKh , the Metro holds up as one of Moscow’s finest museums. Just avoid rush hour.

The Metro is stunning and provides an unrivaled insight into the city’s psyche, past and present, but it also happens to be the best way to get around. Moscow has Uber, and the Russian version called Yandex Taxi , but also some nasty traffic. Metro trains come around every 90 seconds or so, at a more than 99 percent on-time rate. It’s also reasonably priced, with a single ride at 55 cents (and cheaper in bulk). From history to tickets to rules — official and not — here’s what you need to know to get started.

A Brief Introduction Buying Tickets Know Before You Go (Down) Rules An Easy Tour

A Brief Introduction

Moscow’s Metro was a long time coming. Plans for rapid transit to relieve the city’s beleaguered tram system date back to the Imperial era, but a couple of wars and a revolution held up its development. Stalin revived it as part of his grand plan to modernize the Soviet Union in the 1920s and 30s. The first lines and tunnels were constructed with help from engineers from the London Underground, although Stalin’s secret police decided that they had learned too much about Moscow’s layout and had them arrested on espionage charges and deported.

The beauty of its stations (if not its trains) is well-documented, and certainly no accident. In its illustrious first phases and particularly after the Second World War, the greatest architects of Soviet era were recruited to create gleaming temples celebrating the Revolution, the USSR, and the war triumph. No two stations are exactly alike, and each of the classic showpieces has a theme. There are world-famous shrines to Futurist architecture, a celebration of electricity, tributes to individuals and regions of the former Soviet Union. Each marble slab, mosaic tile, or light fixture was placed with intent, all in service to a station’s aesthetic; each element, f rom the smallest brass ear of corn to a large blood-spattered sword on a World War II mural, is an essential part of the whole.

The Metro is a monument to the Soviet propaganda project it was intended to be when it opened in 1935 with the slogan “Building a Palace for the People”. It brought the grand interiors of Imperial Russia to ordinary Muscovites, celebrated the Soviet Union’s past achievements while promising its citizens a bright Soviet future, and of course, it was a show-piece for the world to witness the might and sophistication of life in the Soviet Union.

It may be a museum, but it’s no relic. U p to nine million people use it daily, more than the London Underground and New York Subway combined. (Along with, at one time, about 20 stray dogs that learned to commute on the Metro.)

In its 80+ year history, the Metro has expanded in phases and fits and starts, in step with the fortunes of Moscow and Russia. Now, partly in preparation for the World Cup 2018, it’s also modernizing. New trains allow passengers to walk the entire length of the train without having to change carriages. The system is becoming more visitor-friendly. (There are helpful stickers on the floor marking out the best selfie spots .) But there’s a price to modernity: it’s phasing out one of its beloved institutions, the escalator attendants. Often they are middle-aged or elderly women—“ escalator grandmas ” in news accounts—who have held the post for decades, sitting in their tiny kiosks, scolding commuters for bad escalator etiquette or even bad posture, or telling jokes . They are slated to be replaced, when at all, by members of the escalator maintenance staff.

For all its achievements, the Metro lags behind Moscow’s above-ground growth, as Russia’s capital sprawls ever outwards, generating some of the world’s worst traffic jams . But since 2011, the Metro has been in the middle of an ambitious and long-overdue enlargement; 60 new stations are opening by 2020. If all goes to plan, the 2011-2020 period will have brought 125 miles of new tracks and over 100 new stations — a 40 percent increase — the fastest and largest expansion phase in any period in the Metro’s history.

Facts: 14 lines Opening hours: 5 a.m-1 a.m. Rush hour(s): 8-10 a.m, 4-8 p.m. Single ride: 55₽ (about 85 cents) Wi-Fi network-wide

Buying Tickets

• Ticket machines have a button to switch to English.
• You can buy specific numbers of rides: 1, 2, 5, 11, 20, or 60. Hold up fingers to show how many rides you want to buy.
• There is also a 90-minute ticket , which gets you 1 trip on the metro plus an unlimited number of transfers on other transport (bus, tram, etc) within 90 minutes.
• Or, you can buy day tickets with unlimited rides: one day (218₽/ US$4), three days (415₽/US$7) or seven days (830₽/US$15). Check the rates here to stay up-to-date.
• If you’re going to be using the Metro regularly over a few days, it’s worth getting a Troika card , a contactless, refillable card you can use on all public transport. Using the Metro is cheaper with one of these: a single ride is 36₽, not 55₽. Buy them and refill them in the Metro stations, and they’re valid for 5 years, so you can keep it for next time. Or, if you have a lot of cash left on it when you leave, you can get it refunded at the Metro Service Centers at Ulitsa 1905 Goda, 25 or at Staraya Basmannaya 20, Building 1.
• You can also buy silicone bracelets and keychains with built-in transport chips that you can use as a Troika card. (A Moscow Metro Fitbit!) So far, you can only get these at the Pushkinskaya metro station Live Helpdesk and souvenir shops in the Mayakovskaya and Trubnaya metro stations. The fare is the same as for the Troika card.
• You can also use Apple Pay and Samsung Pay.

Rules, spoken and unspoken

No smoking, no drinking, no filming, no littering. Photography is allowed, although it used to be banned.

Stand to the right on the escalator. Break this rule and you risk the wrath of the legendary escalator attendants. (No shenanigans on the escalators in general.)

Get out of the way. Find an empty corner to hide in when you get off a train and need to stare at your phone. Watch out getting out of the train in general; when your train doors open, people tend to appear from nowhere or from behind ornate marble columns, walking full-speed.

Always offer your seat to elderly ladies (what are you, a monster?).

An Easy Tour

This is no Metro Marathon ( 199 stations in 20 hours ). It’s an easy tour, taking in most—though not all—of the notable stations, the bulk of it going clockwise along the Circle line, with a couple of short detours. These stations are within minutes of one another, and the whole tour should take about 1-2 hours.

Start at Mayakovskaya Metro station , at the corner of Tverskaya and Garden Ring,  Triumfalnaya Square, Moskva, Russia, 125047.

1. Mayakovskaya.  Named for Russian Futurist Movement poet Vladimir Mayakovsky and an attempt to bring to life the future he imagined in his poems. (The Futurist Movement, natch, was all about a rejecting the past and celebrating all things speed, industry, modern machines, youth, modernity.) The result: an Art Deco masterpiece that won the National Grand Prix for architecture at the New York World’s Fair in 1939. It’s all smooth, rounded shine and light, and gentle arches supported by columns of dark pink marble and stainless aircraft steel. Each of its 34 ceiling niches has a mosaic. During World War II, the station was used as an air-raid shelter and, at one point, a bunker for Stalin. He gave a subdued but rousing speech here in Nov. 6, 1941 as the Nazis bombed the city above.

Take the 3/Green line one station to:

2. Belorusskaya. Opened in 1952, named after the connected Belarussky Rail Terminal, which runs trains between Moscow and Belarus. This is a light marble affair with a white, cake-like ceiling, lined with Belorussian patterns and 12 Florentine ceiling mosaics depicting life in Belarussia when it was built.

Transfer onto the 1/Brown line. Then, one stop (clockwise) t o:

3. Novoslobodskaya.  This station was designed around the stained-glass panels, which were made in Latvia, because Alexey Dushkin, the Soviet starchitect who dreamed it up (and also designed Mayakovskaya station) couldn’t find the glass and craft locally. The stained glass is the same used for Riga’s Cathedral, and the panels feature plants, flowers, members of the Soviet intelligentsia (musician, artist, architect) and geometric shapes.

Go two stops east on the 1/Circle line to:

4. Komsomolskaya. Named after the Komsomol, or the Young Communist League, this might just be peak Stalin Metro style. Underneath the hub for three regional railways, it was intended to be a grand gateway to Moscow and is today its busiest station. It has chandeliers; a yellow ceiling with Baroque embellishments; and in the main hall, a colossal red star overlaid on golden, shimmering tiles. Designer Alexey Shchusev designed it as an homage to the speech Stalin gave at Red Square on Nov. 7, 1941, in which he invoked Russia’s illustrious military leaders as a pep talk to Soviet soldiers through the first catastrophic year of the war.   The station’s eight large mosaics are of the leaders referenced in the speech, such as Alexander Nevsky, a 13th-century prince and military commander who bested German and Swedish invading armies.

One more stop clockwise to Kurskaya station,  and change onto the 3/Blue  line, and go one stop to:

5. Baumanskaya.   Opened in 1944. Named for the Bolshevik Revolutionary Nikolai Bauman , whose monument and namesake district are aboveground here. Though he seemed like a nasty piece of work (he apparently once publicly mocked a woman he had impregnated, who later hung herself), he became a Revolutionary martyr when he was killed in 1905 in a skirmish with a monarchist, who hit him on the head with part of a steel pipe. The station is in Art Deco style with atmospherically dim lighting, and a series of bronze sculptures of soldiers and homefront heroes during the War. At one end, there is a large mosaic portrait of Lenin.

Stay on that train direction one more east to:

6. Elektrozavodskaya. As you may have guessed from the name, this station is the Metro’s tribute to all thing electrical, built in 1944 and named after a nearby lightbulb factory. It has marble bas-relief sculptures of important figures in electrical engineering, and others illustrating the Soviet Union’s war-time struggles at home. The ceiling’s recurring rows of circular lamps give the station’s main tunnel a comforting glow, and a pleasing visual effect.

Double back two stops to Kurskaya station , and change back to the 1/Circle line. Sit tight for six stations to:

7. Kiyevskaya. This was the last station on the Circle line to be built, in 1954, completed under Nikita Khrushchev’ s guidance, as a tribute to his homeland, Ukraine. Its three large station halls feature images celebrating Ukraine’s contributions to the Soviet Union and Russo-Ukrainian unity, depicting musicians, textile-working, soldiers, farmers. (One hall has frescoes, one mosaics, and the third murals.) Shortly after it was completed, Khrushchev condemned the architectural excesses and unnecessary luxury of the Stalin era, which ushered in an epoch of more austere Metro stations. According to the legend at least, he timed the policy in part to ensure no Metro station built after could outshine Kiyevskaya.

Change to the 3/Blue line and go one stop west.

8. Park Pobedy. This is the deepest station on the Metro, with one of the world’s longest escalators, at 413 feet. If you stand still, the escalator ride to the surface takes about three minutes .) Opened in 2003 at Victory Park, the station celebrates two of Russia’s great military victories. Each end has a mural by Georgian artist Zurab Tsereteli, who also designed the “ Good Defeats Evil ” statue at the UN headquarters in New York. One mural depicts the Russian generals’ victory over the French in 1812 and the other, the German surrender of 1945. The latter is particularly striking; equal parts dramatic, triumphant, and gruesome. To the side, Red Army soldiers trample Nazi flags, and if you look closely there’s some blood spatter among the detail. Still, the biggest impressions here are the marble shine of the chessboard floor pattern and the pleasingly geometric effect if you view from one end to the other.

Keep going one more stop west to:

9. Slavyansky Bulvar.  One of the Metro’s youngest stations, it opened in 2008. With far higher ceilings than many other stations—which tend to have covered central tunnels on the platforms—it has an “open-air” feel (or as close to it as you can get, one hundred feet under). It’s an homage to French architect Hector Guimard, he of the Art Nouveau entrances for the Paris M é tro, and that’s precisely what this looks like: A Moscow homage to the Paris M é tro, with an additional forest theme. A Cyrillic twist on Guimard’s Metro-style lettering over the benches, furnished with t rees and branch motifs, including creeping vines as towering lamp-posts.

Stay on the 3/Blue line and double back four stations to:

10. Arbatskaya. Its first iteration, Arbatskaya-Smolenskaya station, was damaged by German bombs in 1941. It was rebuilt in 1953, and designed to double as a bomb shelter in the event of nuclear war, although unusually for stations built in the post-war phase, this one doesn’t have a war theme. It may also be one of the system’s most elegant: Baroque, but toned down a little, with red marble floors and white ceilings with gilded bronze c handeliers.

Jump back on the 3/Blue line  in the same direction and take it one more stop:

11. Ploshchad Revolyutsii (Revolution Square). Opened in 1938, and serving Red Square and the Kremlin . Its renowned central hall has marble columns flanked by 76 bronze statues of Soviet heroes: soldiers, students, farmers, athletes, writers, parents. Some of these statues’ appendages have a yellow sheen from decades of Moscow’s commuters rubbing them for good luck. Among the most popular for a superstitious walk-by rub: the snout of a frontier guard’s dog, a soldier’s gun (where the touch of millions of human hands have tapered the gun barrel into a fine, pointy blade), a baby’s foot, and a woman’s knee. (A brass rooster also sports the telltale gold sheen, though I am told that rubbing the rooster is thought to bring bad luck. )

Now take the escalator up, and get some fresh air.

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