About Moscow

Russia's heart and soul, filled with churches and historical monuments, Fashionable cafés and hip clubs (signs of Moscow's new gilded age), World-class ballet and opera—not to mention the circus When to Go? May, June, September, October (although even then, the weather is unpredictable thanks to Global Warming) At the heart of the city, the Kremlin sits on the banks of the meandering Moscow River. Most of the other major sights are within walking distance or a short metro ride away: The Cathedral of Christ the Savior, Russia's skyscrapers of Moskva-City, a soon-to-be-completed business district. KREMLIN (Red Square) The Kremlin's distinctive red-brick walls and 18 towers date back to the late 15th century. Ivan the Great bell tower was the tallest structure in Moscow. The massive stars atop the five tallest towers—the smallest weighs a ton—were introduced in 1937 to replace the czarist double-headed eagle. Inside is a complex of cathedrals, palaces, and government offices, including that of President Dimitry Medvedev, so expect tight security. Sights include the Patriarch's Palace and the State Kremlin Palace, as well as the Diamond Fund and Armory museums.