4. Overlook Moscow from Sparrow Hills
Keywords: Moscow’s high vantage point
Sparrow Hills, also known as Lenin Hills, is the highest point in Moscow, with the Moscow River flowing at its base. Legend has it that the lyrics to the sentimental song “Moscow Nights” were inspired by the view from the observation deck here. Once located on the outskirts, Sparrow Hills is now an integrated part of the city’s bustling core, offering views of Moscow State University’s main entrance and the venue for the 2018 World Cup.
Practical Information:
Take Metro Line 1 to Sparrow Hills Station (Воробьёвые горы) to reach the base of the hill. You can also take Trolleybus No. 7 to the observation deck. To reach Moscow State University, take Metro Line 1 to Universitet Station (Университет) or take buses No. 1, 57, 67, 103, 111, 113, 119, 130, 187, 260, or Trolleybus lines 4, 28, 34, 49, or Trams 14, 26, 39.
5. Admire Art at the Tretyakov Gallery
Keywords: Russia’s art sanctuary
Located in Moscow, the Tretyakov Gallery is the largest collection of Russian paintings in the world. Founded in 1856 by merchant Pavel Mikhailovich Tretyakov, who was an avid patron of Russian artists, the gallery opened to the public in 1874. In 1892, Tretyakov donated his entire collection to the city of Moscow, and the gallery was expanded into a new building designed by artist Viktor Vasnetsov in 1902, inspired by Russian fairy tales.
Practical Information:
You can reach the gallery by taking Metro Line 2 to Novokuznetskaya, Lines 6 or 8 to Tretyakovskaya, or Line 9 to Krymskaya. Buses 13 and 25, or Trolleybuses 1, 4, 8, 33, or 62 also stop nearby.
Opening hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Thursday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. The ticket office closes one hour before. It is closed on Mondays.
The Tretyakov Gallery is a must-visit for art lovers, offering a deep dive into Russia’s artistic heritage.
6. Dine at the White Rabbit Restaurant
Keywords: Russian culinary haven
The White Rabbit restaurant, located on the 16th floor of Smolenskaya Shopping Center, is widely considered one of the best restaurants in Moscow. In 2017, it was ranked 18th in the world’s top 30 restaurants, according to Restaurant magazine and the World’s 50 Best Restaurants Academy. This recognition is the highest achievement for Russian cuisine in history. The White Rabbit has earned repeated acclaim, ranking in the world’s best restaurant lists for three consecutive years.
Practical Information:
The restaurant’s signature dishes include asparagus with pan-seared cod, tomato and egg risotto, and salad-dressed beef. They also offer a variety of wines, children’s menus, business meals, and hookahs.
Additionally, the restaurant has a charitable initiative, donating 1% of each guest’s bill to an orphanage in Moldova, allowing you to enjoy a great meal while supporting a good cause.