Top Day Trips from Moscow

Moscow holds enough attractions to keep any traveler busy for weeks; however, it is equally rewarding to venture outside the city and explore its beautiful surroundings. Whether you choose to travel by car or public transport, a variety of charming destinations await you, featuring unique museums, artistic retreats, medieval fortresses, and 19th-century architecture amidst picturesque landscapes.

Tula and Yasnaya Polyana

Known for its well-preserved medieval fortress, Tula is a perfect day trip destination. Established in the 14th century, its landmark red-brick fortress or ‘kremlin’ was constructed in the early 16th century to defend against the Tatars. Visitors can explore the recently renovated kremlin walls and small museums dedicated to local specialties like pryanik (gingerbread) or the samovar. Adjacent to the kremlin walls, the new Kazanskaya embankment designed by Wowhaus architecture firm offers a scenic stroll.

Tula boasts much more: the Oktava creative cluster, an active microphone factory featuring the Machine Tool Museum and contemporary art exhibitions; the pedestrianized Metallistov St, lined with stunning 18th- and 19th-century merchant mansions; and the Fine Arts Museum, showcasing a collection of Russian avant-garde art, including works by Kazimir Malevich and Wassily Kandinsky.

Just a short drive away lies Yasnaya Polyana, the estate-museum of renowned writer Leo Tolstoy. The museum aims to preserve everything as it was in 1910, the year of Tolstoy’s death. Reservations are recommended to visit the mansion where he wrote War and Peace and Anna Karenina.

Getting there: Take a speed train from Moscow’s Kursk station (Kursky vokzal); the quickest trains complete the journey in just under two hours. Yasnaya Polyana is accessible via a 20- to 30-minute taxi ride from Tula’s center.

Tarusa and Polenovo

Regarded as ‘the Russian Barbizon’, Tarusa has long attracted artists and writers. Founded in the 13th century as a fort on the Oka River, it became a favored summer retreat in the early 20th century. The town centers around Cathedral Square, where visitors can appreciate the art gallery featuring avant-garde artist Edward Steinberg’s work. The Tsvetaev family house, frequented by poet Marina Tsvetaeva, is another highlight. Explore the historic center filled with splendid 19th-century architecture and hike up to the 17th-century Resurrection Church, Tarusa’s oldest building, where a chapel with a sacred spring can be found nearby.

The estate-museum of Polenovo is located across the Oka River. Artist Vasily Polenov settled here with his family at the end of the 19th century. The estate’s buildings, including the Holy Trinity Church in the nearby village of Bekhovo, were designed by Polenov himself. The museum, run by his descendants, boasts a collection of paintings by the artist and his family members.

Getting there: Take a speed train from Kursk station to Serpukhov, then opt for a bus or taxi to Tarusa. In summer, reach Polenovo via a speedboat across the river, or return to Serpukhov during winter and take a Moscow–Tula train to Tarusskaya station followed by a taxi ride.

Rostov-Veliky

Rostov-Veliky, often referred to as ‘the pearl in the Golden Ring’, was likely founded in the 9th century. Situated on the banks of Lake Nero, this small town has deep historical roots, yet is distinct from its larger namesake, Rostov-on-Don.

The crowning attraction in Rostov is its magnificent kremlin, resembling a fortress yet serving a decorative role. Constructed in the late 17th century, it now houses a museum with an extensive collection of icons, religious artifacts, and local enamel miniatures. Be sure to visit the Church of Odigitria, distinguished by its Moscow baroque design, and the Assumption Cathedral, located adjacent to the kremlin. Its belfry holds 15 bells, including Sysoy, one of the largest in Europe. Outside the kremlin, you’ll find many excellent restaurants and cafes offering traditional Russian dishes.

The Spaso-Yakovlevsky Monastery is a worthwhile 15-minute walk from the kremlin. Founded in the 14th century, its high stone walls and towers offer stunning views of Lake Nero.

Getting there: From Moscow’s Yaroslav station (Yaroslavsky vokzal), catch an express train to Yaroslavl and disembark at Rostov-Veliky. Fast trains take approximately two and a half hours.

Kolomna

Kolomna, one of the most captivating towns in the Moscow region, is another favored day-trip spot for locals. The town is dotted with charming churches and well-preserved 19th-century mansions. Notable architect Matvey Kazakov contributed to several structures in Kolomna, showcasing pseudo-Gothic style. Visitors can explore the well-maintained 16th-century kremlin, which features several intact towers and two historical monasteries.

Art enthusiasts should visit Artkommunalka, dedicated to life in a Soviet-era communal apartment, once frequented by writer Venedikt Yerofeyev. The museum hosts intriguing contemporary art exhibits. For food lovers, local artisans have revived two traditional specialties, pastila (resembling marshmallow) and kalach (a type of bread), creating museums where visitors can learn about these culinary delights. Theatrical performances and cafes serve as venues for sampling the local products.

Getting there: Board a train from Moscow’s Kazan station (Kazansky vokzal), with the fastest journey lasting just under two hours.