field trip chaperone bag

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Helpful Tips for Chaperoning School Field Trips

Learn how to be an informed chaperone on your child's class trip, while also doing your part to keep the kids safe, engaged, and under control..

Being a parent chaperone on your child's school field trip can be a wonderful experience for both of you. Here are some practical tips for being a responsible and effective volunteer for the class.

Know the Plan Before you leave, discuss the itinerary, logistics, and any chaperone guidelines with the teacher in charge. If you can, get this information ahead of time and familiarize yourself with it before the trip. Ask how many kids you will be responsible for (usually 5-10, depending on their ages and your destination) and learn their names as soon as you can. Make sure you're clear on meeting and meal times — especially for going home — and if you're responsible for your own admission charges. You should also find out if any of the children have a medical or behavioral problem you should be aware of and what the ramifications might be. Be clear on the school's disciplinary policy and what to do in case a child gets lost. Ask the teacher if there are certain exhibits, shows, or displays that should not be missed.

Come Prepared Bring enough cash for food, extras, or admission fees. Though you're not responsible for paying for your charges, you never know who might forget her money or lunch. Throw a few band-aids and some bottled water in your bag, too. Dress appropriately for the destination and wear comfortable shoes. A cell phone can be an excellent helper if you have one, but keep it turned off.

Show Up Believe it or not, one of the biggest problems teachers face is parents who cancel the morning of the trip or simply don't show up. If you have to cancel, try to give the teacher as much notice as possible and help her find a replacement. Many teachers will book more chaperones than needed for this very reason.

Be Focused Remember your primary concern is to make sure kids are safe and help them enjoy themselves. Model good behavior and professionalism — after all, your group is an ambassador for your school. Avoid discussing your child's progress or other irrelevant topics with the teacher during the trip. By riding the bus, following the tour, and eating with your charges, you not only help maintain their safety but keep them involved in the trip. If you have other children, leave them at home. Avoid smoking in front of the students. Pay attention, be on time, and follow directions. Keep your voice at a moderate level and be courteous.

Establish a Rapport While you need to keep your group under control, remember this is not a military exercise. Be firm about important issues — running off from the group, horseplay, behavior that bothers others — but let minor infractions slide. After all, learning is supposed to be fun! When a child breaks a rule, try to pull him aside rather than reprimand him publicly, but don't be afraid to discipline when necessary. While it's important for you to be respected, you don't have to be liked.

Staying Safe If you stick with the group and keep kids away from potential hazards, you should be in good shape. Take frequent head counts, particularly when moving to a new location. Learn the names and faces of each child in your care, and be sure they know you too. When your group travels, space adults out so that there's always a grownup in front, behind, and in the middle of the group. When you reach your destination, find out where you can go for first aid and the location of the bathrooms, but be sure to let the teacher know before you take any child away from the group. Be clear on what to do in the event of an emergency.

Help Teach Engage your charges in the trip by asking thought-provoking questions that help them discuss what they see, rather than test what they know. If you can, involve all the students in your group — the shyer ones may take a bit longer to participate in discussions. Be careful not to interrupt the guide or teacher and try not to contradict any information they convey.

Stay Positive Your enthusiasm and interest may be infectious. Keep the kids as engaged as you can, participate in the activities, and support the teacher and/or guides' decisions. If you do disagree with something they say, speak to them about it privately. Compliment kids on good behavior and thank guides for their help.

Keep in Good Communication If there's a serious problem, let the teacher know as soon as you can. While you should discipline where you can, let the teacher be the ultimate boss.

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on March 17, 2022 · 1 Comment

Resources for Planning a Beach Field Trip

Hey there friends,

This week here in Washington we have had some beautiful sunny days (in between the random snowstorm) and it has me so excited for spring. I don’t know about you, but the sun just brings me to such a better mindset on anything and everything.

Beach Field Trip

With sunny weather on the brain, I started thinking of my absolute favorite field trip we took every spring when I taught 1st grade. I even took my own kids on the field trip when I was on maternity leave. The trip to the beach at Brackett’s Landing was always a first-grade favorite. We would venture out on a low tide day to explore the amazing tide pools.

Preparing for a Beach Field Trip

The week before the field trip we would talk about the many different ocean animals we might discover on the field trip. We then let the kids choose the animal they want to do a report on. I know kids are generally pumped on a field trip, especially to the beach, but it is amazing the difference of engagement when they are hoping to spot their ocean animal in real life.

Beach Field Trip Chaperone Bags

One other thing I always prepared before field trips was my chaperone bags. In the bags I would have:

• Printed directions to the destination
• A printed list of all chaperones with the kids they will have in their group with cell phone numbers including my own. (This has been a HUGE savior in the past, and I have never had anyone abuse having my phone number.)
• A baggie of band-aids, baby wipes, hand sanitizer, and medical gloves
• Specific to this field trip I also include a checklist list of all the animals they could see. The kids and parents both love this.

Tide Pool & Ocean Animals Lesson Plans

Coming back from the field trip, the kids were so excited to share what they observed about their ocean tide pool animals and equally ready to work on their projects. The one problem we were running into was that there was a lot of nonfiction text available on some of the ocean animals we would meet. As a result, I decided to write a few passages about common sea creatures.

Then… I may have gotten carried away, and created a variety of report templates, graphic organizers, math and literacy center work, morning work activities plus other materials to help students show what they know about tide pools and ocean animals.

Here’s a deeper glimpse into what is included in this tide pool and ocean animal resource…

Reading and Writing

There are 9 different nonfiction passages about tide pool animals with comprehension questions. Students will read about clams, moon snails, sea stars, sea anemones, sea urchins, jellyfish, hermit crab, sculpins, and oceanographers. After reading these passages, along with any additional informational text or digital resources you provide, students can create their very own informational writing reports. I provide a plethora of graphic organizers and writing templates to accommodate all levels of writers.

Morning work materials and literacy center ideas with a fun ocean and tide pool theme are included as well.

Math and More

I like to add extensions to other curriculum areas whenever possible. For example, for math, I created graphing activities, math center games, and some number sense (doubles, 10’s partners, skip counting, story problems, etc) morning work or fun homework options.

If you are looking for fast finishers or just fun extension activities for your tide pool and ocean studies you will enjoy the ABC order, word searches, and website extensions to further your students’ learning.

Lastly, I also included a labeling activity with a diagram of the tidal zones, to not only help students identify where their tide pool or ocean animal lives.

Ocean Animals Nonfiction Passages Freebie

To give you a sneak peek of this Tide Pool & Ocean Animal Nonfiction Unit , I wrote an additional passage about oceanographers that I would love to share with you as a free download. If you’re looking for more nonfiction reading comprehension passages be sure to check out my previous blog post about Nocturnal Animals & Nonfiction Text Features .

Even if you aren’t able to go on a beach adventure with your nuggets, I know you will enjoy learning about ocean life with this unit or use these resources to plan your own virtual beach field trip!

Virtual Beach Field Trip

Speaking of virtual field trips, it would be so fun to plan a day when your students could dress in their beach gear and check out these virtual beach field trips! Here are a few links to various virtual ocean visit options:

• Take a Virtual Dive in a Kelp Forest
• Learn Online with Shedd Aquarium
• Tropical Coral Reef Cam

Leave a comment below and tell me about your beach field trip and, as always, feel free to reach out with questions, suggestions or just to connect!

Reader Interactions

May 10, 2023 at 3:39 am

Would you be willing to share your checklist for creatures that students may see?

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• Travel Packing

How to Pack for a Field Trip

Last Updated: November 24, 2023 Approved

This article was co-authored by wikiHow Staff . Our trained team of editors and researchers validate articles for accuracy and comprehensiveness. wikiHow's Content Management Team carefully monitors the work from our editorial staff to ensure that each article is backed by trusted research and meets our high quality standards. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article has 20 testimonials from our readers, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 237,667 times. Learn more...

Field trips are an exciting chance to learn outside of the classroom. They’re even more fun if you’re fully prepared for them. Fortunately, you can pack for a field trip to make sure you’re ready for any and everything that comes your way. As a student, choose a lightweight bag to pack the essential items that are required by your teacher, as well as any books and food you need to take with you. If you’re a chaperone or teacher, be sure to bring any assignments, supplies, or paperwork that you’ll need on the trip. If you have the space, add in a few personal items to make your trip even more enjoyable.

Bringing What You’ll Need as a Student

• Bring a messenger bag that you can sling over your shoulder for a less bulky option.
• Use a drawstring bag for a lightweight option that can hold your items
• Use a smaller bag for less items.

Warning: Don’t write your first name on your bag so a stranger can’t pretend that they know who you are if they find it.

• Place any papers such as notes or your itinerary into a folder so it’s protected.

• Place the heavier books and binders in your bag first, then add lighter items like notebooks and folders on top of them.

• Try to squeeze any highlighters, scissors, or sticky notes that you need into the case.
• You can find pencil cases at department stores and online.

• Make sure you pack enough food for the trip.
• Add a few high-energy snacks like granola bars and trail mix in case you get hungry.

• Add your teacher or chaperone’s phone number to your contacts so you can call them if you need them.
• You can also use your phone to call your friends or teacher if you get separated from the group.
• If you’re not allowed to bring a phone, don’t do it! You could get in trouble and field trips are supposed to be fun!

• You could also bring headphones and an mp3 player or listen to music on your phone, but that can drain your battery. [5] X Research source
• Make sure it’s okay for you to bring a book by asking your teacher first.
• Use the opportunity to study for your class or read up on the destination of your field trip.

Being Prepared as a Chaperone or Teacher

• You can find first aid kits at pharmacies, medical supply stores, and online.
• Build your own first aid kit that you can bring with you in case there’s an accident or injury on the field trip.

• You may want to put your cellphone or the name of the school on the name tag as well in case one of the students wanders off.

• Keep any allergy or medical information that may be needed in the folder as well.

• Make sure you have permission to take photos of the students or the destination before you take any.
• If your charger needs an outlet plug, be sure to bring one as well.

Tip: Save the contact information of all of the other teachers, bus drivers, chaperones, and anybody else you may need to contact in your cellphone before you go on the field trip.

• Have copies of any documents the students need on the trip so you can give them one if they lose or damage theirs.

• You may also want to bring a pair of disposable gloves to keep your hands clean.
• Peppermints can help prevent motion sickness if you or any of the students feel ill during the drive.

Adding Personal Items

• Don’t bring an expensive pair of sunglasses in case they get lost or broken.

• Refill your bottle whenever you need to so you can stay hydrated.

• You can find disposable cameras at department stores and pharmacies.
• Many pharmacies also develop photos from disposable cameras.

• If you know that you’ll be outside and the weather is warm, you can skip bringing a jacket.

Field Trip Pro Tip: Definitely pack a jacket if you’re the kind of person who gets cold easily. Your bus could stop at a restaurant or cafeteria for lunch, and you’ll be glad you have it.

• If you have asthma or a chronic respiratory condition, bring an inhaler just in case.
• Keep an EpiPen in your bag if you have a severe allergy to something so you can use it if there’s an emergency.

• Keep about $10-$15 on hand for small purchases.

Community Q&A

Tips from our Readers

• If you are unsure what to bring, go through the events in the field trip itinerary and pack what's neccesary. Later, you can take out some things. If your trip is overnight, you don't have to pack another whole set of clothing for another event because you can rewear your outfit (unless it's really dirty or soaked). You can't wear clothing for more than 2 to 3 days or else it gets dirty and gross.
• Grab some chewing gum if it's allowed in your bag. This helps with motion sickness and freshens your breath whenever you need to. You can also share it with your friends on the bus/train/car.
• You should bring a powerbank or portable charger (that is fully charged) so if your phone battery drops or dies while on the trip, you can charge it again using the powerbank.
• Definitely pack a jacket if you’re the kind of person who gets cold easily. Your bus could stop at a restaurant or cafeteria for lunch, and you’ll be glad you have it.
• Try not to bring electronic devices that are expensive and/or valuable to you. Bring something that you and your parents won't mind if you lose.

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• ↑ https://www.metroparent.com/daily/family-fun/family-travel/school-trips-packing-checklist/
• ↑ https://www.bambinitravel.com/10-things-bring-field-trip/
• ↑ https://www.pennlive.com/living/2014/05/field_trip_chaperone_survival.html

About This Article

To pack for a field trip, first make a checklist of the things you’ll need, and make sure your backpack is large enough to fit everything. For a summer trip, you’ll want to pack things like sunscreen, chapstick, sunglasses, bug spray, and a light rain jacket. You could even bring a fun pack, which is a pocket-sized container that usually includes a pencil, paper, and other fun items like clay or a piece of candy. But don’t forget to pack your lunch and a water bottle! For more help, like how to pack sensibly, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Preparing Parent Chaperones for a Field Trip

Even with eyes in the backs of our heads, we need back up.

Even though teachers have “eyes in the back of their heads,” we can’t be everywhere during field trips, so responsible parent chaperones are a must to safely and successfully extend students’ learning outside the classroom. Dominique recently asked the WeAreTeachers HELPLINE! for advice on preparing parent chaperones. Here are some do’s and don’ts to ensure your parent chaperones are well equipped to help you provide a safe, stress-free and spectacular field trip experience!

Do write out important information. Prepare an informational sheet that lists: students’ names, itinerary, departure location, goals for the trip, emergency contact information and any other important instructions your chaperones should know.

Do explain roles and responsibilities. Have a brief meeting with chaperones before you leave school to set expectations. “Too many parents want to chaperone to be ‘buddies’ with the kids rather than to help them stay safe and learn.”–Scott  “I ask them to be responsible for monitoring all students that are assigned to them at all times. They need to be cognizant of departure times and inform me of any problems that may have taken place on the trip.”–Angelique

Do give out an emergency contact number. Make sure chaperones know how to contact you in the event of an emergency. If you aren’t comfortable giving out your personal cell phone number, find out if your school has a pre-paid phone you can take with you. If not, you can use a program like Google Voice. “I use Google Voice. It rings to my cell, and my personal number is still personal.”–Elena

Don’t underestimate cell phone usage. Some chaperones may end up doing more texting and talking on their cell phones than supervising students. “I generally say something like this: ‘Please pay close attention to the students in your group. Once, on a field trip, my parent volunteers got so busy talking to each other and on their cell phones, they weren’t paying much attention to the students! It made me super nervous!’ It comes out sounding caring but not controlling.”–Lydia

Don’t assume chaperones are in the clear. Some districts require parents to undergo a background check prior to supervising students on a field trip. “Check and see if your district has a set policy… I had to get a background check done before I could go as a chaperone for my granddaughter’s class.”–Susan

Don’t forget say, “Thank you!” Remember that field trips aren’t possible without parent volunteers. Make sure you give parents your heartfelt thanks for their time and effort to make the day a success!

Also, be sure to check out our Best Field Trip Ideas for Every Age and Interest (Virtual Options Too!)

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Field Trip Chaperone Survival Tips

School field trips are fantastic. I loved them as a child in school, as it was such an adventure to leave the school for a few hours and do something different. As a parent, I couldn’t wait for the day for my children to go on field trips too. Since my daughter’s class started participating in field trips, I have escorted three. I’ve learned something new each time and have curated a few tips to ensure I have a good time while I keep track of my assigned school children. If you’re ready to take on the school-field-trip-chaperone role, I’ve got you covered with my top five survival tips.

Have a conversation with the teacher about the field trip before volunteering.

Before you sign-up to chaperone a school field trip, know what will be asked of you. Have a conversation with your child’s teacher about the purpose of the field trip, destination (if you don’t know it), and chaperone expectations. Sign up if you’re feeling good about the field trip and the responsibilities.

Do your field trip destination homework.  

All three of my daughter’s past field trips have been to places we know, like the Academy of Sciences and Lafayette Park, but I did a little online research anyways. When you’re a field trip chaperone, you’re managing so many different things that the obvious can fall by the wayside, like where the restrooms or trash cans are. Here are some things to consider; scope out the destination, check the weather forecast, and download any mobile maps. Don’t forget to locate all the restrooms and save fellow chaperones’ telephone numbers. A little studying before the field trip will add to your comfort and preparedness.

Prepare a chaperone kit. 

As a chaperone, you may be required to carry student lunches and crafts on top of your items. I bring a backpack and a large tote to take everything. I also pack a “chaperone kit” with  first aid supplies, extra paper masks, nut-free snacks, extra bottled water, and a battery pack for my phone (bonus points for packing toilet seat liners).  It seems like a ton of gear, but it isn’t. I always think of the children who forget something or get boo-boos. There’s always one (especially my daughter).

Dress colorfully and comfortably.

I love wearing bright colors! Wearing bright colors invigorates me and makes me happy. Wearing bright colors also makes me easier to spot for the kids I am handling. If my group or any child gets separated from me (has not happened), they can always spot me. I’ve thought about taping the letter of my first name in a large size with painter’s tape on my back too, but that might be overkill. Dressing comfortably is a no-brainer. Don’t even think about heels or wearing anything you don’t want to get stained. Don’t forget to do your homework and prepare for weather conditions.

Take photos and share them with the class .

By tip #4, the field trip is about to start. You’ve met your fellow chaperones, and a part of you is probably wondering what kids (besides your own) will be assigned to you. This is the fun part. Please take photos of your group, their teacher, and don’t forget to get yourself in a picture or two. Please send them to the teacher for sharing with families. 

Provide feedback after.

Teachers and chaperones alike can learn a lesson or two after a field trip. After a field trip, I thank the teachers and then provide a little feedback after (if any). Teachers aren’t thanked enough for organizing school field trips.  

Are you feeling good about volunteering for your child’s school field trip? Are you ready to tackle the role of a school field trip chaperone? What would you add to this list? 

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Busy Kids Happy Mom

Fun * Practical * Purposeful

By Kristen 4 Comments

Chaperone Field Trip Survival Tips

Read to find out 8 tips for Leading a Small Group of Children, 5 Questions to Ask Before You Leave, and the Top 10 Tips for Successful Chaperoning.

  8 Tips for Leading a Small Group

• You are in charge of someone’s precious child!  Treat them like gold!
• Your job at the beginning of the day is to know how you’re going to get them to the end of the day.
• Assign students partners.  They feel a sense of responsibility too.
• Always count them, every step of the way.  If you start with 5 kids, you want to end the day with them!
• Learn your students names.  For safety reasons, students should not wear name tags with their names on them.  They may wear tags that have the school’s phone number on them.
• Always – Safety First!
• Never leave your students unattended.  Find another chaperone to partner with for the day.
• Bring an empty backpack – you may end up carrying all of the lunches.

5 Questions to Ask Before You Leave

• Schedule for the day (stick to it and make sure you meet the bus on time).
• Teacher’s Cell Phone Number
• Plan for taking opposite sex children to the bathroom.
• What to do if someone misbehaves or there is a medical emergency.
• Will the teacher be walking around or stay in one central location?

Top 10 Tips for Successful Chaperoning

• Take 2 Tylenol before you begin.
• Drive separately if you can or want to.
• Do not ask about or plan on bringing a sibling.
• Talk to your own child about appropriate behavior (sometimes they’re the worst – sorry to say!)
• Treat your small group like a team.  Say:  Sticking together + great behavior = a great day!  Set high expectations for them!
• Adhere to cell phone guidelines.  Only use the phone to contact the teacher or other chaperones, do not use it for personal calls during the day.
• Avoid the gift shop!  Do not purchase things just for kids in your group, your child, or any food related items.
• If you’ve never been to the location, do some prep ahead of time.  Look at a map on-line or get a book from the library.
• Check their photography rules.  Some children are not allowed to have pictures taken of them.
• Watch the clock!

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About Kristen

Kristen is an Elementary Reading Specialist. She is the owner / author behind Busy Kids Happy Mom , a site dedicated to fun, practical, and purposeful activities to do with your kids. Follow Kristen on Facebook , Pinterest , and subscribe for updates .

What People Are Saying

at 12:02 pm

I found this on Pinterest and just wanted to add somethings. I work as an after school counselor during the school year and a summer camp counselor during the summer. 1-Brief the kids on what to do if they get lost. Never tell them to go to a trusted adult. Some kids are a little too trusting. Tell them to find a policeman, another chaperone, or to go to a specific place. A lot of places have a first aid station and that’s where we tell the kids to go. They know that if they get separated that we will go straight there. 2-As far as head counts go, I agree they’re important, but they’re not enough. You need to count the kids, then do a roll call or something like it. As it was put in a summer camp training, you may have the right number, but not the right kids! 3-For bathroom breaks, don’t be afraid to open the bathroom door, call out to see if anyone is in there, walk in do a quick once over, and then let a child go in. Anyone with kids will understand, and if they don’t, oh well. 4-You should have a way to get the kids attention and eyes on you. I work with Kindergarteners and I know that getting fourteen five and six year olds to drop what they’re doing and look at me is hard! The kids know that when I clap my hands, they stop talking/doing what they’re doing, repeat the clap and put their eyes one me. You can make up whatever beat you want, but I clap once, pause, clap again, pause, then clap three times fast. Some people raise their hand and say give me five and the kids then raise their hand. Other people say “1, 2, 3, all eyes on me.” Then the kids say “4, 5, 6, my eyes are fixed.”

at 11:53 pm

Great tips Courtney! Thank you so much for taking the time to write all of these ideas out! I especially appreciated the one about calling into the bathroom. A lot of kids are never allowed to go into a public bathroom alone. Take extra care when you’re there. Thanks again!

at 10:13 pm

Know if students in your group have allergies. If they do, monitor closely and know how to use an EPI PEN! Kids with anaphylaxis will always have it with them (or the adult will be assigned to carry it).

at 10:20 am

Awesome ideas! Will have a chance to use these in the next few weeks. 🙂 Some additional items I’ve brought in the past: magazines, books or mad libs for the long bus rides AND (more importantly) a few gallon sized ziplock bags and paper towels or baby wipes for anyone who gets motion sick. Unfortunately have had to use them, but glad to have them! 🙂

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5 tips for picking the best chaperones for your school field trip.

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Teachers who have traveled with their students before know that chaperones are the backbone of a school trip.

Choosing the right chaperones will set you up for success to make sure that your field trip will run smoothly and efficiently.

When you are selecting chaperones for your school field trip, make sure to consider these 5 important things:

1. Reliable and Trustworthy

Your chaperones are your eyes, ears and extra hands and feet to make sure that your students are safe during the field trip.

You should do your best to find a chaperone who is reliable – someone that you know you can count on to pitch in and follow the plan for the trip.

Timeliness is so important when coordinating groups of students for a field trip, so you should be able to trust that your chaperones will be on time, with the students they are responsible for, at the location they are supposed to be meeting at.

If there is an emergency at 3AM on your school trip, you should be able to trust your chaperones to pitch in with whatever actions need to be taken for the success of the trip.

Your chaperones are an extension of you. If you wouldn’t feel comfortable with them assisting in your classroom, you shouldn’t bring them with you on a class field trip.

2. Travel Experience

If you are traveling with your students, make sure your chaperones have experience traveling.

It is good to have travel experts with you who know what is needed to prepare and coordinate students for airport security, have experience taking public transportation and understand how to navigate in a new city or place.

The last thing that you need when wrangling students together for a school trip is to have chaperones who need help and supervision.

3. Make Expectations Clear

The school field trip is for the students, NOT the chaperones.

Set expectations ahead of time that outline the role that your chaperone will play on the field trip. This means that chaperones might miss out on some of the more “fun” aspects of the trip that are meant to stimulate student learning and creativity.

Make sure that chaperones understand that these experiences are meant to benefit the students, not the chaperones. It can be a common mistake that some chaperones might equate their role with a “free trip,” but these are not the chaperones that you want taking responsibility for your students on your school trip.

4. Diversity

Try to include diversity in your selection so that you will have chaperones that relate to each of your students.

This is especially relevant for students who are participating in a school trip out of town. For many of the students, this may be the first time they are away from their family for an extended period of time. It is important that they feel there is someone on the trip that they can relate to and come to, even if you are unavailable, during the experience.

5. Listening and Focus

Your chaperones should be active listeners who are attuned to the needs of the students. They should listen to students concerns that are voiced out loud, but also recognize body language to tell if a student needs help or is stressed.

Sometimes this might mean that they are responsible for student discipline on the trip. Make sure you explain ahead of time what discipline responsibilities your chaperones will have on the field trip and what measures should be taken if rules are broken.

At the end of the day, chaperoning a school field trip is a job with responsibilities. Make sure those you select are focused on carrying out their role to the best of their abilities.

It’s okay to be selective when picking chaperones for your school trip! After all, it is your responsibility to make sure that your students are in good hands for their experience.

With the right chaperones by your side, you can execute a fantastic field trip your students will remember for the rest of their lives!

Ready to plan your school’s field trip? Check out our workshops in Arts & Humanities , Science & Technology , Leadership & Innovation and Performing Arts at our East Campus in Walt Disney World and our West Campus in Disneyland Resort for a discovery of real-world application of these concepts in our popular Parks and Resorts. Sign up for our e-newsletter to stay up to date on all things Disney Imagination Campus and explore all our academic workshops to see how we inspire imagination-powered learning.

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One Hundred Dollars a Month

Join Mavis Butterfield for vegetable gardening and canning tips, easy recipes, and saving money strategies (Rug hooking, too!). Simple living at its best!

How to Survive Your Child’s Field Trip: 8 Tips for Chaperones

By Mavis Butterfield on September 28, 2016 - 11 Comments

Come With a Plan and a Good Memory: Kids are awesome, until they’re not. Think of some fun games you can play with them if you have downtime. Brainstorm ways to remember their names. Decide if you are going to be “good cop” or “bad cop.”

Bring a Good Set of Lungs: While I don’t suggest yelling at kids, trying to gather them after an hour spent running wild on a playground or around a park will be like herding cats. You’ll need to be able to shout. Eyes in the back of your head would also come in handy. Just an FYI.

Sharpen Your Counting Skills: If you arrive back at the bus with one less kid, chances are you’ll never be asked back. If that is your plan, carry on. If not, make sure you have a numbering system to keep track of them. Assign each kid a number and have them sound-off. They’ll think it’s fun and you’ll know you’ve successfully regathered your whole flock. Don’t Forget the Asprin: For you, not them. I’m sure someone would sue you if you gave little Johnny an Advil. But you’ll probably, most likely end up with a headache. Don’t leave home without this.

Pack Earplugs: Just kidding. Maybe.

Seriously though, kids are great. You’ll probably have just as much fun as they do. Or you’ll want to lose your mind. Could go either way.

This post may contain affiliate links. These affiliate links help support this site. For more information, please see my disclosure policy . Thank you for supporting One Hundred Dollars a Month.

September 28, 2016 at 8:14 am

I survived going to Cleveland Metroparks Rainforest and Zoo with 36 3-5 year old preschoolers. Was actually a ton of fun! Also chaperoned same 36 kids to Inventure Place, a museum [of sorts] of inventions through the years, with the bottom floor hands-on for kids. Not so much fun, was pure torture trying to get them back on the bus at the end of the day. Would do it all again though. My father always chaperoned the field trips to natural history and art museums and to see the Cleveland Orchestra, telling me if I ever had kids to volunteer at least once for trips to fun places. I would do it all again, if given the chance.

September 28, 2016 at 11:07 am

I’m with you Kathy, I’d do again in a heartbeat. My kids are now 20 and this is one of the things I miss the most. In grade school kids still WANT to hang out with their parents 😉

Thank you for the post Mavis, it definitely made me chuckle. There was madness and mayhem, but such good memories were made.

Butterflyweed says

September 28, 2016 at 8:50 am

The major thing I DO NOT MISS about having young children is field trips! I went on every single one my two kids had in grade school and it was pretty much a nightmare almost every time.

I also would never drive on one again. So many times it was the parents driving because the bus cost too much. What a liability!

I became a class pariah because the morning of one field trip, my other child woke up with a high fever and sore throat. I had no one else to care for a sick child so I had to let them know I wouldn’t be able to chaperone that day. I RUINED EVERYTHING! Exactly what was I supposed to do? It was also a stupid field trip to a local park to wander around looking for owl pellets. The lady conducting the field trip came to the school instead and they went into some undeveloped property next to the school for the lesson. Seemed to work out fine to me.

I recommend taking that Advil before you even leave the house in the morning. Then another at lunch. Bring extra food, someone is always without their lunch so if you need a mid-day bite, bring something extra or you go without because who can resist a hungry kid?

I think that most field trips are a waste of time and money. It was usually things we had already done as a family.

Carrie says

September 28, 2016 at 1:01 pm

I am really angered by your comment about the “stupid field trip to a local park”. I am an Environmental Educator who works at a local park. We see thousands of school children a year, majority of which are terrified to step onto our trails. Often times its not the subject matter (owl pellets) that matters but the experience of being in the woods. Children today are so desensitized to our natural world due to electronics being in their faces at home and school they can’t appreciate the beauty around them. There are so many underprivileged children in our country that can’t go on trips with their family that a trip to the local park 5 miles away is a huge deal. What I do matters and is not a waste of time or money (our classes are only $3.50/student!).

It’s usually the parents that make my job difficult. If an instructor is asking a question, it is addressed to the students not a know-it-all parent. Also, leave the cell phones off and put away. It doesn’t matter if you are at a park, museum, ball game or concert hall. Enjoy the time with your child.

Mary from Chattanooga says

September 28, 2016 at 2:08 pm

Mavis has some great pointers in this article and I didn’t see anything about a “stupid” something. She does a fabulous job on each and every topic she writes about. I look forward to her blog each day and I’ve learned so much from her. Have a nice day!

September 28, 2016 at 7:24 pm

Carrie was referring to Butterflyweed’s post, not Mavis’s. And, I couldn’t agree more with Carrie’s post. There are too many children and adults that are desensitized to the natural world around them. Keep up the good work Mavis and Carrie!

September 30, 2016 at 10:30 am

We live in an affluent rural area. ALL of these kids had been in the woods. ALL had seen deer and raccoons and bears. It makes sense for urban kids to go to parks. Not kids raised on acreage. AND it is a nightmare to keep track of unruly kids in the woods.

Leslie says

September 28, 2016 at 8:57 am

Your list of survival supplies is great! I don’t miss field trips AT ALL…mostly the bus rides. Oh my! Too many times I didn’t remember the aspirin for me!

I’m passing on this list to my nieces who are at the field trip stage!

September 28, 2016 at 11:53 pm

I went on as many as I could as well, so much fun. I’m lucky they still let me go after my 2nd grade incident. I guess it wasn’t exactly a field trip, it was a treasure hunt on school grounds for Halloween. I was put in charge of 8 kids and came back with 2. They kept asking me if they could go to the bathroom or get drinks of water. I would tell them ok. just come right back. My son and his friends always minded me. I found out that others didn’t. So, after that I made sure before hand that I wouldn’t be in charge of a group on the field trips I went on.

September 29, 2016 at 5:56 am

My kids school has a mandatory background check requirement on all parents attending a field trip, which I am thankful for. The school policy for field trips is also to use public transportation which was an eye opener for the suburbs. Once the commuter train took them an hour away from the school, they connected to bus routes and everyone came back safe. I’m sure that called for a lot of Advil.

September 30, 2016 at 2:21 am

I’d like to offer another perspective. I could never attend my children’s field trips because of my job. I’ll always regret that I didn’t attend any. I always hoped that my kids were listening to the chaperones; and that everyone was enjoying the experience.

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Little Rock Family

5 ways to be the best field trip chaperone.

Teachers have a lot on their plates — so it’s important for parents to step in and help out when they can.

Volunteering to chaperone a field trip is just one way that parents can contribute to their child’s education — and there are many ways that parents can make sure they’re providing help rather than hindering the experience. Here are five ways to best serve.

1. Stick to the Plan

If you’re on a tour, driving from point A to point B or even just playing at a park outdoors, it’s important to stick to the plan the teacher has laid out.

“Please don't take your car of students to get a drive-through treat when everyone else is waiting for you at the destination,” says Vanesa Wood, first grade teacher at Central Arkansas Christian’s North Little Rock campus. “Or, if all students don't have money to buy something extra — pay to play a video game at an arcade, pay for an extra ride, pay for a snack — it may not be a good idea for you to buy something for your child.”

By following the plan, you’ll also set a good example for all of the students who are watching your every move.

2. Take Initiative

If you notice a teacher struggling to clean up a mess or even having to repeat him or herself over and over, think about how you can help.

“When parents see a need and meet it, it is always helpful — like offering to take kids on bathroom breaks or hand out hand wipes at a picnic,” said Tracy Sheehy, a third grade teacher at CAC's Pleasant Valley Elementary campus.

If your own child needs something (such as a drink, a bathroom break or somewhere to sit down), it’s great to see if other kids need the same. Focus on the whole class of students and try not to pinpoint only your son or daughter.

3. Listen and Focus

Field trips are intended to be educational experiences for students — meaning they need to listen, observe and stay focused. As a chaperone, it’s your responsibility to do the same.

“The biggest hindrance on field trips can be parent's phones,” Sheehy said. “I have had a few field trips where the parents were not involved with the learning and their child, but they were off to the side on his/her phone or they were talking with other parents.”

4. Come Prepared

A field trip emergency kit is great to have on hand! It doesn’t need to be fancy, and all of the items you would need can easily be packed in your purse or backpack.

Wood’s go-to list of items includes bandages, wipes, a digital thermometer, disposable sick bags, children’s Tylenol and peppermint candy for upset tummies. Sheehy added neosporin and a water bottle to that list.

5. Prepare Your Student

Whether or not you’re able to serve as a field trip chaperone, it’s important to talk to your child about the purpose of field trips and how they should behave on one.

“Parents should remind their children to take full advantage of the learning that can happen on a field trip,” Sheehy said. “It is about having fun but more importantly it is about the experience and learning.”

Wood added that safety is important, and students run into different scenarios on a field trip than they would in the classroom.

“It's helpful for them to talk to their child about staying with the adult in charge at all times, how to safely cross a street, and to discuss respectful behavior, because they are representing our school,” Wood said.

Get the complete list of educational destinations around Arkansas, with options focused on nature, arts, history, science and more in the latest Field Trip Guide .

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How to Pack Your Teacher Bag for Field Trips

• March 7, 2022 November 5, 2023

Inside: Find out how to always be ready for a field trip by preparing a teacher bag early and what to pack the day of to make the day go smoother.

Do you like going on field trips with your class, or do you dread the stress and chaos that can sometimes come with it? To make things easier, I create a “ field trip bag ” that stays prepared in my cabinet all year. When it is field trip time, I just grab my teacher bag, add a few items for the current trip, and I am ready to go! Having my bag prepared before the trip can make the day less chaotic because I am less likely to forget something.

What to add before the trip :

• Folder with class list, parent contact information, and your information
• First aid items – bandages, wet wipes, gloves, masks, tissues, plastic bags, antiseptic wipes, hand sanitizer
• Name tags and Markers
• Phone charger
• Garbage bags
• Paper towels
• Packs of cards or flashcards

Parent Reminders

Just as important as preparing your teacher bag is preparing parents for the trip. These reminder sticky notes are a valuable tool to simplify field trip communication, ensuring that parents are informed and prepared for upcoming adventures. You can buy them from my TPT store by clicking here .

What to add the day of the trip:

• Permission slips
• Chaperone contact information
• Bottle of water

Some of these items are obvious in case of emergency or injury, but some of them you are probably wondering why?

I always take name tags for students to wear in case a student gets away from the group and is too scared to find someone or answer their questions. Each name tag has the student’s name and my name on it (or also the chaperone’s name or group number if we are split into different groups).

The phone charger is in case we have to stay on our trip longer for any reason, and I can charge my phone. My phone battery drains pretty quickly from taking pictures and videos of my students and communicating with the other chaperones all day.

Fidgets are for when students need something to focus on during the bus ride. Sometimes students get bored on the bus if it is a long trip or may get motion sickness, and the fidgets keep their mind busy.

Hair ties for when it is hot, and you just need to pull your hair back.

Garbage bags for lunch time when there is not a trash can nearby, so we can collect everyone’s trash in one location instead of leaving a mess behind. Paper towels for messes that can happen anywhere.

When you are waiting on the bus to come and need to keep students busy, the pack of cards and flashcards will come in hand. You could also do games like Simon Says, Follow the Leader, or Telephone.

Lunch time is chaotic no matter how prepared you are. Between passing out lunches, opening packages, and helping with spills or other messes, you may not get time to sit down to eat. Having a snack with you allows you to eat on the go.

Do you have a field trip bag ready to go? If you do, what are your must haves for your bag?

Happy Teaching!

Misadventures and fun in the kitchen and beyond

Packing Lunch for a School Field Trip

So your kid is going on a school field trip or having field day and it is your mission to pack a completely disposable lunch. Piece of cake right? I have been a chaperone on a few field trips over the years, and I have seen some fabulous lunches and some utterly fail lunches. I am here to share some helpful advice while keeping it easy and food safe for everyone! I’ve had my own lunch fails too, but in the end the kids have a blast and it’s just one day so don’t stress!

Pack it securely

I’ll call this a lesson learned from our own field trip fail. Pack foods in a zip top bag, and then bag all that in a gallon size zip top bag.

Why so much plastic? What happened: My daughter tripped getting off the bus at school and the juice boxes I had packed pierced the brown bag AND the plastic shopping bag which sent her lunch flying across the sidewalk at school. Thankfully, not much of the food was damaged, because the other items were in zip bags, but the juice boxes were free to fly around! I noticed something was wrong when my daughter had her lunch in a different plastic grocery bag at field trip time, which leads me to tip two.

Clearly marked information (name, class, allergens/lack of allergens)

For our family, food allergies are super important. To avoid any confusion, or being sent to the peanut butter table, I label our lunches with “No peanuts, no tree nuts.” Sometimes the Sunbutter we use gets confused as peanut butter. For our food allergy child, I even go as far as to label each bagged item and she knows to only eat the items with her name on it. I tie and tape bags shut where possible, but still keep it easy to open when it’s time to eat. While there are generally few incidents of exploding lunches on school field trips, we understand it’s a possibility and I’d hate for my child to be stuck in a situation where she’s not sure if her lunch had been contaminated with allergens.

Also field trip day is not the day to try a new food. Go with safe foods, even if your kid has an entire lunch of Oreos! (This girl’s dream!)

Less is More, and that means no bananas.

Let’s be honest, your kid is going to eat half of what you send because FIELD TRIPS ARE SO EXCITING !!! My own kids, who love food, only eat some of what I pack them for a field trip. (I do insist they at least consume the sandwich and drink – two drinks on warm/outside activity days, and please do not bring home the leftovers!)

Bananas, let’s talk bananas. The truth is more bananas will get thrown out than will get eaten simply because it smells , and oh no…it’s BROWN. One banana, two banana, three banana split….into the trash. Want to send a fruit, maybe try one of those little cute oranges, fruit cup, or squeeze fruit packet.

Time is not on your side

It takes time to herd groups of kids to the field trip lunch areas. It takes time to find their brown bag lunch in the boxes or bins they were placed in the bus. It takes time to catch up with your friends you haven’t seen since you got off the bus! It takes time to open the sauce packet on the pizza Lunchable, but zero time to splash that sauce everywhere but the bread! How much time does a kid really have to eat before it’s time to wash up and continue the field trip? About fifteen-twenty minutes (even when teachers say thirty).

So send that kid with a juice box, napkins, sandwich, and some other bagged snack and let them have fun with less food waste! It’s just one day, the other days you can bento with reusable containers, and just normal looking food !

Food Safety – Skip the refrigerated foods if off-site

Here’s some great tips from FoodSafety.gov on packing school lunches. Figure if your kid leaves home between 8-9am, and the field trip lunch doesn’t happen until 12pm that’s FOUR hours of lost refrigeration time. Lots of the tips are applicable to the every day lunch too. Don’t send the cold sub or lunchmeat sandwich on a June field trip……

https://www.foodsafety.gov/keep/events/backtoschool/index.html

Remember the 2-Hour rule: you must keep hot foods HOT and cold foods COLD. Meat, poultry, dairy, and eggs (also known as perishables) only last 2 hours at the room temperature of 90 °F or below before they go bad. If the room temperature exceeds 90 °F, the perishables will only last 1 hour before they must march back into the refrigerator or freezer. ( Food Safety 101: How to Dodge an Attack of Bacteria in Lunchboxes )

Ideas: (food allergy friendly)

• Napkins, paper towel
• Juice Boxes
• Bottled Water
• Squeeze Fruit (Aldi sells SimplyNature Fruit Squeezies in a variety of flavors: Apple-Peach , Apple-Banana, etc. Target has a wide variety too – Organic Mixed Fruit Pouches 12 ct – Simply Balanced
• Fruit Strips – Aldi SimplyNature Strawberry Fruit Strips
• Fruit cup + spoon
• Sunbutter and Jelly sandwich (made with sunflower seeds, and tastes almost like peanut butter)
• Teddy Grahams
• Baby carrots
• Roasted Chickpeas
• Sunflower seeds
• Pretzels, Party Mix, Cheeze Its, Crackers (Aldi does sell a variety of gluten free, as well as tree nut, peanut, and sesame free snacks if you look!)

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Field Trip Guidelines for Overnight Trips

Please review the following guidelines for students and chaperones attending the upcoming field trip with The Travel Store. Clear communication of these expectations will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. (Also review the specific sheet “Important Guidelines for a Safe & Enjoyable Motor Coach Ride” enclosed in your Education Packet.)

Students must remain with chaperones and their groups at all times and follow rooming, seating, dining, line-up, assembly, or sub-grouping assignments as necessary.

Students should always respond cooperatively and promptly to directions given by teachers, Travel Coordinators, chaperones, hotel administrators/security officers, or tour guides.

Chaperones should remain constantly alert to their student groups at all times and avoid personal errands, coffee breaks, or extended cell phone conversations.

Students must not litter or deface any site or property that is visited on the trip.

It is the students’ sole responsibility to keep up with their money and personal property.

Review school guidelines for dress codes, weather-related items, hazardous items, and electronics. Drinks/snacks should be in resealable containers. Chocolate, gum, dairy or peanut products are not allowed. Please place appropriate snacks in your backpack, and follow all trash disposal guidelines provided.

Below are a few “intangibles” to bring along as well.

TAKE-IT-ALL-IN STAMINA : Traveling is a constant learning experience. We take in a lot of history, culture, and/or science on each trip because we want students to see and do as much as possible. Although it may be tempting to take a break or opt out of an activity, we encourage everyone to remain actively involved. Take advantage of all the experiences the day has to offer!

POSITIVE ATTITUDE : Traveling often requires flexibility and patience. A road may suddenly close or the weather may take an expected turn. Come prepared—ready and willing to adapt as needed.

RESPECT : After ensuring personal safety, maintaining respect is key to a pleasant trip. Remember that you are a guest at your destination. Demonstrate respect for yourself, your leaders/coordinators, guides, and the local culture.

Airplane Travel?

Review packing information at these and similar websites:

TSA: Liquids Rule

USA TODAY: Packing For Airline Travel

TSA Carry-on Rules

Also check your airline-specific website for policies and guidelines for air travel and packing.

Does your trip include travel to Cumberland Island, Georgia? An additional list of recommendations will be enclosed in your Education Packet.

SUGGESTED PACKING LIST AND TRAVELING CONSIDERATIONS

Recommended: One small, personal carry-on bag and one large piece of luggage

CARRY-ON BAG/PERSONAL BACKPACK (labeled with name)

• Glasses/sunglasses/contact lens cases as needed for easy access.
• Spending money secured in a wallet or small purse/vending machine money (change) if access allowed; a recommended total amount is no more than $30-$50.
• Light rain gear or travel umbrella/poncho; sweater or sweatshirt; wind/waterproof jacket.
• Healthy snacks and drinks (must be resealing or have screw-top lid; no gum, no chocolate or sticky candies, no dairy/peanuts, no canned carbonated drinks). Individual dietary restrictions must be provided well in advance to trip venues serving meals; teachers should convey this info to The Travel Store . Label water bottle with name; water is the preferred take-along beverage. Follow school policy on energy drinks and highly caffeinated drinks
• Electronic devices as permitted (MUST include headphones; extra batteries, charging devices); do not bring gaming systems to attach to hotel TVs; follow teacher guidelines on use of laptops. All such personal electronics brought on the trip remain the sole responsibility of the student.
• Cell phones to be used per guidelines established by teachers.
• Books, magazines, small games.
• Medications & instructions/permission forms as school requires— follow policy established by teachers for safe storage, access, and administration; medications must be in original container, clearly labeled. Grooming items and personal hygiene items; hair bands or tie-backs
• Hats or visors, as allowed exceptions to school dress codes within reasonable and appropriate use.
• Small pillow/rolled towel and small light lap blanket for bus ride.
• Pocket-sized hand sanitizer.
• Journal or notebook, assignments, and writing implements if required.

LUGGAGE (labeled with name); see airlines/TSA website recommendations as necessary

Do not overpack! Also refer to school dress codes. A common error is to take too many clothes and unnecessary toiletries. Each student MUST be able to carry his/her own luggage . Usually one suitcase and one carry-on bag is sufficient. Remember to use resealing Ziploc-style bags to hold items that could leak.

• Layered clothing (for weather & temperature adjustments) that is per school dress-code regulations (Suggestions: 3 casual shirts, 2 pairs of pants/jeans/shorts, light jacket); Note: Denim is heavy if wet!
• Comfortable walking/hiking shoes, sneakers, or other close-toed shoes; no flip-flops! Save them for the beach. Also, give careful consideration to dress shoes that may be needed for formal sites. There is often a great deal of walking on uneven street surfaces to access venues.
• Sleepwear (must be modest); no sleeping bags, bulky pillows, comforters, quilts, or large stuffed animals
• Change of underwear and socks/day
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Shampoo and soap (may be provided at hotel); deodorant
• Lotions or creams necessary for pre-existing conditions
• BEACH TRIP on your itinerary? Bring lip balm and sunscreen at least SPF 15 (follow teacher directions on application with non-aerosol products preferred); insect repellent (non-aerosol); beach towel ; water shoes or waterproof sandals; extra Ziploc bags or plastic grocery bags as needed for wet clothing
• Small flashlight
• Spare glasses or contact lenses
• Follow school policy regarding knives, lighters, markers, and other hazardous items.
• Minimal jewelry –only non-valuable items

PLEASE NOTE THIS REMINDER FOR YOUR HOTEL STAY : Courteous and responsible behavior should be maintained in the hotel at all times. Running and loud noise as well as in-room “gymnastics” will not be permitted. Room service, pay TV, video game hook-ups, long-distance phone calls, plus any other charges are not allowed. Safety guidelines will be in place as announced by teachers. Students may not leave hotel rooms unaccompanied by a chaperone. Security guards will intercede as necessary. Any damages to hotel rooms/property will be the sole financial and behavioral consequence for the student.

PS 41 Greenwich Village School

• All school rules apply on school-sponsored field trips. Chaperones are expected to comply with school policies, follow the directions given by the coordinating teacher, work cooperatively with other volunteers and school staff members, and model appropriate behaviors for students. The chaperone will follow the trip plan developed by the teacher.
• In order to comply with school policy, before or during the field trip, chaperones:
• may not use or possess alcohol or other drugs
• may not use tobacco in the presence of, or within the sight of, students 
• may not administer any medications, prescription or nonprescription, to students.
• Students must be supervised at all times while at a school-sponsored event. As a chaperone, you will supervise a small group of students, helping them learn and making sure they behave appropriately. Students must stay with you, their chaperone, at all times. Go over use of the buddy system with students under your care. Account for all participants regularly and before changing activities. Be sure you know when and where to meet the rest of your group at the end of the visit. Chaperones must be readily available, be mindful of safety concerns, and respond to students’ needs. Do not use your cell phone for non-emergency or non-trip related purposes. Please do not conduct outside work or read while you are supervising students. We also ask that you refrain from chatting with other adults while you are supervising children.
• School rules related to student behavior apply. Go over rules and standards of behavior, safety rules, and any site specific rules with students. Ensure that students do not get involved in any extra activities not pre-approved by the teacher. While you are there to support appropriate behavior, it is the responsibility of the teacher to discipline a student.
• For the protection of both the student and the chaperone, chaperones should not place themselves in situations in which they are alone with a student.
• Siblings and family members may not participate in a school sponsored field trip.  
• Please follow the directions of the docents and guides even if other groups do not.
• All chaperones must leave with the group from school and return to school with the group after the trip. You cannot bring your child separately or leave separately. Safety is of paramount importance on trips and the supervising teacher is the final arbiter of any decisions that have to be made.

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It may seem counterintuitive to tell you to pack an extra item to ensure that you have room in your carry-on for trip purchases, but trust me now and thank me later. As a frequent flier, I love traveling with only a carry-on . But sometimes, especially on trips to urban destinations, leaving room for my souvenirs isn't possible. That's why I always pack Wandf’s Foldable Duffel ; it's become my go-to hack for freeing up space in my suitcase. 

For my return flight, I like to throw all of my dirty laundry into the packable duffel bag and check it, and reserve the newfound space in my roller bag for all of my precious new purchases. That's why I call it my overflow or backup bag. But when I'm embarking on my trip, I fold it up neatly and tightly to easily stash it in my carry-on and stay within the allotted two-bag minimum on most airlines. 

Wandf Foldable Duffel Bag

The Wandf Foldable Duffel is available in four sizes, 24 inches, 28 inches, 32 inches, or 36 inches, so shoppers have their choice of carrying capacity to best accommodate their trip length and the amount of clothes that they've packed. Thanks to its handy compression capabilities, the bag can fold into itself and shrink down to as little as 10.5 inches by 2.9 inches. At this size, it takes up no more room than a beanie, folded rain jacket, or small purse would. And, its exceptional packability offers some give to smush even more under the approved weight of a carry-on suitcase or another item.

Though the water-resistant nylon material is durable, it is still very lightweight, which is why it's worth noting that this duffel bag shouldn’t really be used for any prized possessions or breakables, but it certainly offers plenty of space for clothing or miscellaneous (and soft) items. In fact, one Amazon reviewer said that she used hers to fit her “large Coleman sleeping bag" after deeming the "original stuff bag" that it came with to be "useless." She raved, "I found this foldable duffle bag and it totally fit the bill." 

For extra packing space, the large foldable duffel bag is outfitted with a dedicated shoe compartment (which you can use to squeeze in extra items), one interior zippered pocket, and one exterior zippered pocket, as well as an adjustable, detachable padded shoulder strap should you decide to carry it crossbody style; the convenient sleeve on the back allows the duffel to slide over your suitcase handles when you're on the move. Additionally, the top carrying handles make it easy to grab off of a moving baggage claim carousel, as well as when you're loading it in and out of your car or into and out of the plane's overhead bin.

When I purchased mine, I didn't realize how much I'd be using it, so I opted for the non-flashy gray version , but the Wandf Foldable Duffel comes in up to 12 different colors depending on the size that you opt for. Bolder hues like the fuchsia pink and lime green ones may be more easily recognizable on the luggage carousel if losing it is a concern.

In addition to being won over by its vast range of colors, Amazon shoppers have taken to the review section to praise the Wandf Foldable Duffel 's spaciousness, versatility, and packability. As of right now, it's racked up more than 4,000 five-star ratings from customers, one of whom shared that it "saved my trip to Asia as I bought a lot of miscellaneous goods and had no room in my suitcase to carry back to the Americas." They also added, "The material is tough enough to not rip as the bag was full to the brim when I brought it back and hauled it everywhere I went.”

And according to another traveler , it fits under most plane seats should you use it as a personal bag or an extra carry-on. Similarly, a third shopper highlighted that "the durable, good-looking bag expanded nicely and worked out really well as a second piece of luggage." And a final buyer said that they were "able to fit everything I wanted, plus I had extra space." 

If you’re a notorious overpacker and know that you won't have room for shopping once you shut that suitcase before your outbound flight, take a cue from my travel book and grab the Wandf Foldable Duffel . Or, keep scrolling to see some of the other top-rated packable duffels that are winning over Amazon shoppers. 

More Duffel Bags at Amazon: 

Bago foldable duffel bag with shoe compartment, gonex large foldable travel duffle bag, legend foldable travel duffle bag, redcamp foldable travel bag .

At the time of publishing, the price started at $29. 

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Shooter Files by f.d. walker

Street Photography Tips, Interaction, Travel, Guides

Apr 24 2017

City Street Guides by f.d. walker: A Street Photography Guide to Moscow, Russia

*A series of guides on shooting Street Photography in cities around the world. Find the best spots to shoot, things to capture, street walks, street tips, safety concerns, and more for cities around the world. I have personally researched, explored and shot Street Photography in every city that I create a guide for. So you can be ready to capture the streets as soon as you step outside with your camera!

At over 12 million people, Moscow is the largest city in Russia and second largest in Europe by population ( Istanbul is #1). An urban, cosmopolitan metropolis with more than enough glitz and glam to cater to the elite, but without losing its fair share of Soviet era roughness around the edges. It can be fast paced, brash, busy, and trendy like other big cities, but it has its blend of West meets Russia atmosphere and beauty that provides plenty of unique interest. The Red Square is as famous as it gets, but there’s so much more to this city, including the most beautiful subway system you’ve ever seen. It would take years to capture all of Moscow, but that means you have an endless amount of areas to discover.

So here’s a Street Photography guide so you can be ready to capture all that Moscow has to offer before you even arrive!

• Patriarch’s Pond
• Old Arbat Street
• Maroseyka Street
• Tverskoy Boulevard

Top 5 Street Spots:

1. red square.

The Red Square is the most famous square in not just Russia, but all of Eastern Europe. The name actually doesn’t come from the color of the bricks or communism, but from the name in Russian, Krásnaya, once meaning “beautiful” before its meaning changed to “red.” This large plaza is what you see on the cover of guide books and magazines for Moscow, with St. Basil’s Cathedral being the center piece next to Lenin’s Mausoleum surrounded by the Kremlin Wall. Of course, the Red Square attracts hordes of tourist due to the main attractions, but all that activity around an interesting atmosphere does provide street photo opportunities. It’s also the central square connecting to the city’s major streets, providing a good starting point to explore outward.

You’ll also find the popular pedestrian only Nikolskaya Street connecting the Red Square to Lubyanka Square. This line of expensive shops includes plenty of activity, while also leading you to another popular square. Filled with history rivaling any city, the Red Square and surrounding areas are the heart and soul of Russia.

2. Patriarch’s Ponds

Patriarch’s Ponds is one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Moscow. Despite the name being plural, there’s only one large pond, but it’s worth a visit with your camera. It’s a popular spot for locals and expats to come relax or take a stroll around the pond. You get an interesting mix of young and old too, from young love to “babushkas” feeding pigeons. It’s a very peaceful park atmosphere in one of the nicer areas within the city center, while bringing enough activity for street photography. 

The pond is shallow and in the winter becomes a popular spot for ice-skating too. The area is also well-known for the location in the famous Russian novel, The Master and Margarita. 

3. Old Arbat (Stary Arbat)

Old Arbat is the most famous pedestrian street in Moscow, and dating back to the 15th century, also one of its oldest. Originally, it was an area of trade, but soon became the most prestigious residential area in Moscow. During the 18th century, Arbat started attracting the city’s scholars and artists, including Alexander Pushkin. Cafes lined the streets and impressive homes filled the neighborhood. Since then, New Arbat street was created as a highway in the area, while Old Arbat was paved for a 1km pedestrian only walkway.

Due to the historic buildings, famous artists that lived here, and the bohemian atmosphere, Old Arbat has become a big attraction for tourists today. Now, there’s a mix of cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, street performers, street merchants and other attractions for visitors, and some locals, to come enjoy. It can get really busy here and there’s usually something interesting going on so it’s a good street to come walk with your camera for guaranteed life.

4. Gorky Park

One of the most famous places in Moscow is Gorky Park. The official name is Maxim Gorky’s Central Park of Culture & Leisure, which gives you an idea of what goes on here. When built, it was the first of its kind in the Soviet Union. Divided into two parts, it stretches along Moscow River. One end contains fair rides, foods stands, tennis courts, a sports club, a lake for boat rides, and more. This end brings more active life due to its number of attractions, while the other end is more relaxed, where you’ll find gardens, trees, older buildings, and an outdoor amphitheater.

Gorky Park attracts mostly locals so it’s a good spot to capture the non-tourist side of Moscow life. Muscovites come here to escape the city and unwind in a picturesque setting. The park remains alive outside of the warmer months too, especially when the lake turns into the city’s largest outdoor skating rink. I’d recommend taking the metro out here to spend at least half a day exploring the massive park’s life with your camera.

5. Maroseyka Street

Maroseyka Street is a popular area not too far from the Red Square. The long, winding street turns into Pokrovka and is lined with restaurants, cafes, bars and places to stay. It’s actually where I like to stay when I’m in Moscow due to its location and solid street photography opportunities itself. You have Kitay-gorod station near and if you keep walking southwest, you’ll get to the Red Square. But if you walk northwest, as it changes to Pokrovka, you can find a long street of activity for photography with its own interesting atmosphere.

6. Tverskoy Boulevard

Tverskoy Boulevard is the oldest and longest boulevard in Moscow, beginning at the end of Nikitsky Boulevard, and finishing at Pushkin Square, a spot to come for activity itself. The boulevard is made up of two avenues, with pedestrian walkways in-between. You’ll find grass, shrubbery, trees, benches and more walking it’s almost kilometer length. Many people come here to enjoy some relaxation, walk their dog, or just to use it to walk wherever they’re going. Its center location also provides a nice place to walk with your camera near plenty of other spots you’ll want to check out anyway.

Sample Street Walk:

For a full day of Street Photography, covering some of the best spots, you can follow this sample street walk for Moscow:

• Start your morning walking around the Red Square (1), while exploring the surrounding area, including Nikolskaya Street
• Then walk northwest to Patriarch’s Ponds (2) and slowly walk the pond and surrounding area with your camera
• Next, walk east to the Pushkin Monument and stroll down Tverskoy Boulevard (6)
• Once Tverskoy Boulevard (6) ends, it will turn into Nikitsky Boulevard. Follow this down until you get to the start of Old Arbat Street (3), across from Arbatskaya station
• After you’re done walking down Old Arbat Street (3) for more street photography, spend some time checking out Moscow’s beautiful metro stations
• To finish off the day with more street photography, get off the metro near Red Square (1) again, Maroseyka Street (5) or wherever you’re staying for the night.

3 Things I’ll Remember about Shooting in Moscow:

1. museum metro.

The Moscow metro system was the first underground railway system in the Soviet Union and today includes 203 stations across 340km of routes. The elaborate system has some of the deepest stations in the world too, with escalators that seem to go on forever. None of this is what makes it so special, though. Many of its stations feel like stepping inside a museum, making it without a doubt the most interesting and beautiful metro system I’ve been in.

When built, Stalin wanted to make the metro stations “palaces for the people” with marble, chandeliers, and grand architecture. The best part is the variety of architecture and styles used, making many of the stations a completely different experience visually. You could easily spend a whole day traveling the stations and there are even tours available for people who wish to do just that. My advice, though, would be just to buy a ticket and hop on and off at different stations, while exploring different lines. The museum-like surrounding mixed with the crowds of characters can make for a great photography experience.

Since there are so many stations, here are some of my favorites to check out:

• Novoslobodskaya
• Mayakovskaya
• Elektrozavodskaya
• Komsomolskaya
• Ploschad Revolyutsii
• Dostoyevskaya
• Prospekt Mira

2. Moscow is Big

It’s no secret that Moscow is a big city, but it can feel even bigger with how spread out much of it is. This is especially true if you compare it to cities outside of Asia. If I compared it to cities in Europe, I’d probably say only Istanbul would warrant more time to really discover the depths of this city. Most only explore around the Red Square and surrounding area, but that is such a small part of the city. Although, that central area does give you plenty to see on its own.

Fortunately, I had a good friend living in the city to show me around, but it opened up my eyes even more to how much there is to discover in Moscow. It’s a big city with a variety of atmosphere that can take you from “east” to “west” and trendy to rugged depending on where you go. I’d imagine you’d have to live here a while to really know the city.

3. Cosmopolitan Mix of East meets West

Modern skyscrapers mixed with amazing architecture, a world-class metro system with museum-like beauty, trendy fashion and chic clubs, Moscow is a rich mix of Russian culture and history in a more western cosmopolitan package. There is a push to keep the Russian culture, while also pushing forward with a modern metropolis the whole world will envy. This comes with an impressive skyline, that continues to grow, and endless modernities, but with soviet nostalgia and atmosphere mixed in for good measure.

Mixed in with this grand western cosmopolitan atmosphere, is a strong national pride in Russia. This includes their famous leader, Vladimir Putin. Maybe no other place will you see a country’s leader more often. All over, from the pricey tourist shops to the underground walkway stalls, you’ll find goods with Putin’s likeness covering them. From t-shirts to magnets to Matryoshka dolls. There’s a strong national pride that can be seen around the city, which also extends to their leader. Moscow is many things. It’s East meets West, modernizations meets Soviet era, and a whole lot more.

What To Do For a Street Photography Break?:

Eat at a stolovaya.

Stolovayas are Russian cafeterias that became popular in the Soviet days. You grab a tray and walk down the line of freshly prepared local dishes, and select whatever you want from the chefs. They’re usually inexpensive and a much better value than restaurants, while giving you the opportunity to try from a wide selection of everyday Russian food. They’re also very tasty. I always include some borsch on my tray and go from there. The places themselves are all over Moscow and usually come with Soviet-era aesthetics to complete the experience.

Street Safety Score: 7

*As always, no place is completely safe! So when I talk about safety, I’m speaking in general comparison to other places. Always take precaution, be smart, observe your surroundings and trust your instincts anywhere you go!

Being the 2nd largest city in Europe with over 12 million people, you’re going to have your dangerous areas, but for the most part, it feels safe walking around. Russia is statistically higher in crime compared to most of Europe, but this generally doesn’t apply to tourists and visitors. Around the Red Square and surrounding city center, you should feel completely safe walking around. Pick pocketing can happen, but no more than other touristic places. I always explore Moscow freely without coming across too much to worry about. It’s a spread out city, though, so of course it matters where you are. Just use basic street smarts, know where you are and Moscow shouldn’t give you a problem. 

People’s Reaction Score: 7

Moscow is fast paced, big city life, which usually means people aren’t too concerned with you, or your camera. I don’t find people notice or pay much attention to me when I’m out taking photos in Moscow. For the most part, people just go about their day. You shouldn’t get too many looks or concern. But it can depend on the area you are in. The more you stick out, the more you might get noticed with suspicions. I’ve never had any problems in Moscow, or Russia, but just be careful who you’re taking a photo of if you get out of the city center. Other than that, it’s about average for reactions. 

Street Tips:

Learn the alphabet .

Much of Moscow, including the metro system, doesn’t use english. The Russian alphabet uses letters from the Cyrillic script, which if you aren’t familiar with it and don’t know the sounds, can be hard to decipher the words. This is most important for street names and metro stops when trying to get around. It can save confusion and make it easier getting around if you learn the basic alphabet. At the very least then, you can sound out the words to see which are similar in the english conversion, which can help matching them to maps. When out shooting street photography, getting around is as important as anything. So save yourself some time and frustration by learning the Russian Alphabet.

Use the metro

While Saint-Petersburg feels very walkable for a city its size, Moscow can feel very spread out, even for its bigger size. Outside of the Red Square area, you can have plenty of walking before getting anywhere very interesting, so you’ll need to take the metro a lot if you really want to explore the city. Maps are deceiving here too, it will always be further than it looks.

Another reason it’s less walkable than Saint-Petersburg is its completely different set-up. Moscow’s streets are mostly contstructed in rings with narrow, winding streets in-between. This is common with medieval city cities that used to be confined by walls, but you usually don’t have it in a city this massive. Saint-Petersburg has a more grid-like pattern that also uses the canals to help you know your way around. When it comes to navigating on foot in Moscow, it can be more difficult, so bring a map and take the metro when needed. It’s why Moscow’s metro carries more passengers per day than the London and Paris subways combined.

Explore other areas if you have time

Moscow is really big. While most people stay around the Red Square within the Boulevard Ring, there’s so much more to the city. I covered some other spots outside of this circle, but if you really want to see the city, you’ll need time. If you do have time, some other areas I’d check out first are Zamoskvarechye, along some of the south and western Moscow.

Inspiration:

For some more inspiration, you can look through the Street Photography of Moscow photographer Artem Zhitenev  and check out 33 of my photos taken in Moscow .

Conclusion:

Moscow’s name brings a certain mystique, but once you’re there it might bring a different atmosphere than you expect. It’s big and sprawling, but beautiful in many ways. It can feel like a European capital on a grand scale, but you can definitely find its Russian side in there.

The urban sprawl of Moscow can be intimidating, but give it enough time and you’ll be rewarded with plenty to discover. All with the world’s best metro system to take you around.

I hope this guide can help you start to experience some of what Moscow contains. So grab your camera and capture all that Moscow has to offer for Street Photography!

If you still have any questions about shooting in Moscow, feel free to comment below or email me!

(I want to make these guides as valuable as possible for all of you so add any ideas on improvements, including addition requests, in the comment section!)

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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!

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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!

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!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

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.

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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!

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!

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Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

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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 .

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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

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!

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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!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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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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