Hidden Gems: Unusual Things to Do in Moscow, Russia
Few cities can blend history, culture and modernity as well as Moscow. Although most travelers come to see the Kremlin, Red Square and St. Basil’s Cathedral, the city has an interesting hidden side to explore. Beyond the usual tourist stops, Moscow offers an array of quirky museums, artistic enclaves and underground bunkers to add to the riches of the metropolis which can be explored.
If you are looking to visit Russia and require Russia Visa from Dubai or Russia Visa from UAE, then it is easy to get one. After you obtain your visa, go on Moscow’s less shiny sights, that which made the Soviets the Soviets, go on its avant garde and less moves like a go go dancer spectacular art, its enchanting architecture. From a history buff to an art lover to an adventure seeker, these will surely provide you with a different perspective about Russia’s capital city.
Here are the Hidden Gems: Unusual Things to Do in Moscow, Russia
1. Bunker-42: A Cold War Museum Underground
Bunker-42, a former Soviet military facility, is deep beneath the streets of Moscow and was once classified as able to withstand nuclear attacks. This underground fortress is now a museum and gives tourists a breathtaking Cold War history journey. Go behind war rooms, even secret tunnels, and most seriously take part in a simulated nuclear attack drill.
2. Izmaylovo Kremlin: A Fairytale Market
Izmaylovo Kremlin is a whimsical wonderland that is a vibrant, fairytale like complex, displaying Russia’s cultural heritage. This hidden gem has colorful towers beyond, and its flea market is a bustling one where you can find Soviet antiques, handmade crafts, and local delicacies. This is the ideal place to purchase unique souvenirs and enjoy the Russian charm.
3. Museum of Soviet Arcade Machines
A nostalgic place to travel back in time at the Museum of Soviet Arcade Machines with all the fully restored gaming machines from the USSR. Using vintage Soviet kopeks, visitors can recall 10k types of a Soviet childhood. This interactive museum is a fun time (and a good place) for history lovers, gamers and everything in between.
4. Moscow’s Secret Metro Stations
Some lesser known stations of Moscow’s metro system rival grand palaces in design and it is an underground masterpiece. Elektrozavodskaya and Novoslobodskaya stations have intricate mosaics, chandeliers and elaborate stained glass windows. A trip through Moscow’s metro makes a tour through hidden art gallery and a ride through these beautiful stations turns Moscow’s metro into one of the most beautiful metros in the world.
5. Patriarch’s Ponds: A Literary Escape
Patriarch’s Ponds is a peaceful retreat in the heart of Moscow, steeped in literary history. This tranquil park made famous by Mikhail Bulgakov’s novel The Master and Margarita invites visitors to take a quiet stroll around the pond, admire the surrounding historic buildings and the sculptures inspired by the novel’s intriguing characters. A must-visit for book lovers!
6. The Egg House: An Architectural Oddity
One of Moscow’s strangest architectural curiosities, the Egg House is hidden among the streets of the Arbat district. It is a private residence shaped like an enormous egg symbolizing rebirth and futuristic design. Its unique appearance is a fun and unusual landmark that visitors can’t enter, but it is worth stopping by for a quick photo and architectural curiosity check.
7. Vinzavod: Moscow’s Contemporary Art Hub
Vinzavod was once a Soviet wine factory, but it has been transformed into a thriving contemporary art space, and is a showcase of Moscow’s modern creative scene. It is this industrial complex that has cutting edge galleries, vibrant street art and artist workshops, giving a glimpse into Russia’s emerging art world. Vinzavod is the perfect place to feed your inspiration or to explore.
8. Sanduny Banya: A Luxurious Russian Bathhouse
Sanduny Banya is the place for an authentic Russian spa experience. This lavish bathhouse was opened in 1808 and combines rich interiors and traditional banya tradition. It is pleasant to enjoy a steaming sauna, a refreshing ice plunge and a therapeutic venik massage with birch branches. Visiting Sanduny is a cultural experience and the best way to relax in Moscow.
Conclusion:
A city of surprises, Moscow is a place where history and modernity are one and the same, and the travellers can find both iconic landmarks and hidden gems. The city boasts underground Cold War bunkers, whimsical markets, secret metro stations, quirky museums and much more to offer in the realms of offbeat experiences. Whether you interested in Soviet history or current art & experiment on the continent of Europe, Moscow – as always amazes the wide range of spectrums without failure.
Getting a Russia Visa from Dubai or Russia Visa from UAE is a simple process if you are planning a trip from the UAE and you can experience the hidden wonders of this incredible city. These less famous attractions however provide you with experiences in Moscow that will be unforgettably yours that are beyond the ordinary, and beyond the famous sights.
