Moscow , the impressive capital of Russia!

Moscow is considered one of the world's most impressive metropolises, with a population of 13 million and certainly plenty to see.

It is home to many companies and major corporations in Russia, though the influences of the former Soviet regime are evident. Due to its imposing "wintery" atmosphere, Moscow is particularly enchanting during the winter, even though the cold is quite biting.

Book your flight tickets with Travelo and get ready for your trip!

 

Historical facts

The name "Moscow" comes from the river that flows through the city, the "Moskva". Although it is unknown when the area began to be inhabited, the city of Moscow was first mentioned in the 12th century AD (in 1147) by the then Prince of Rostov.

During the Middle Ages, although various conquerors such as the Tatars tried to temporarily conquer the city, they did not succeed for long as the Ivan dynasty managed to cast them off and reclaim Moscow for the Russians.

In 1812, Napoleon's French troops attempted to invade the area, but the Russian commander-in-chief Kutuzov had already given orders to burn the city to (paradoxically) prevent the invasion.

In 1922, the Communist regime of the Soviet Union was established in the city, leading to stagnant development and the undermining of religious and cultural beliefs. In 1991, the Soviet Union collapsed, and the city once again entered a period of development.

 

Don't forget to visit

Cathedral of Christ the Saviour: A magnificent temple built with traditional Russian architecture, modelled after Hagia Sophia.

Ostankino Tower: A towering radio and television transmission tower built in the centre of Moscow.

Lenin's Mausoleum: A mausoleum housing the body of the famous Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin.

Red Square: The city's central square, surrounded by various monuments of prominent historical significance.

Bolshoi Theatre: An impressive theatre that hosts year-round performances of classical Russian ballet and opera.

State Historical Museum: A huge museum built on Red Square with a plethora of exhibits showcasing the evolution of the city and the entire country.

Moscow International Business Centre: A large commercial centre with skyscrapers housing major Russian and multinational companies.

 

Also read: Free activities in St. Petersburg!

 

How to get there

You can travel to Moscow by air (after ensuring you have secured a visa and all your travel documents) with direct or connecting flights. The total duration of a direct flight is 3.5 hours.

From Thessaloniki, you can fly directly with Ellinair, which operates weekly flights to and from Moscow.

From Athens, Aegean operates flights to and from the capital of Russia.

Search now for flight tickets to Moscow at the best market price, through the No. 1 travel portal, Travelo.gr!

In the city, you can get around by taxi, bus, metro, and train.

 

Local Delicacies

In Russia, you will have the opportunity to taste red or black caviar, Russian salad, pickled vegetables, sauerkraut, pelmeni (dumplings), pirozhki, or fish soup as snacks and appetisers. For a main course, try beef Stroganoff, salmon, or lamb shashlik, among others. Since most Russian restaurants are quite pricey, if you have a very limited budget, you can eat at a Russian fast-food establishment (such as Kroshka-Kartoshka, which serves stuffed potatoes) or well-known American fast-food chains like McDonald's.

 

What to buy

In Moscow's shops, you will find an excellent variety of high-quality furs, leather jackets, and shoes if you are willing to spend more money. There are also traditional handmade products such as the famous "Matryoshka" dolls, hand-painted lacquered boxes, blue and white ceramics, and wooden toys with moving parts.

 

Climate

The climate in Moscow is humid continental with very low temperatures, dropping below 0°C in winter with sporadic snowfall and rainfall. Summers are warm but somewhat humid, with an average temperature of 23°C.

 

Further landmarks

Luzhniki Stadium: The stadium that hosted the 1980 Olympic Games, with a capacity of 103,000 spectators.

State Tretyakov Gallery: The country's largest art gallery, with thousands of Russian artworks adorning the building's corridors.

Useful information for your trip

* Discover hotels in Moscow!

* Embassy of Greece in Moscow for anything you might need