Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Neighbourhoods at a Glance
Red Square and the Kremlin are the historical, geographic and spiritual heart of Moscow, as
they have been for nearly 900 years. The mighty fortress, the iconic onion domes of St
Basil's Cathedral and the granite mausoleum of Vladimir Lenin are among the city's most
important historical sights. The surrounding streets of Kitay Gorod are crammed with
churches and old architecture. This is the starting point for any visit to Moscow.
The streets around Tverskaya ul comprise the vibrant Tverskoy district, characterised by old
architecture and new commerce. Aside from being a cultural centre (home to 20-plus theatres
and concert halls, including the world-famous Bolshoi Theatre), Tverskoy is also the city's
liveliest commercial district, its streets lined with restaurants, shops and other venues, such as
the Sanduny Baths.
The vast, diverse Presnya district spans the centuries, taking in development from the last
three. The district's diverse attractions include its impressive and varied architecture, several
noteworthy literary sites, and more-traditional venues, such as the zoo and planetarium.
Presnya is also home to many of Moscow's top restaurants, including the highly lauded Café
Pushkin. The former textile factory at Trekhgornaya is fast becoming a centre for nightlife
and dining.
The side-by-side districts of Arbat and Khamovniki are rich with culture. Moscow's most
famous street, ul Arbat, is something of an art market, complete with portrait painters and
soapbox poets, while the nearby streets are lined with museums and galleries, including the
world-class Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts. Khamovniki is home to the ancient Novodevichy
Convent & Cemetery, as well as several unique newer museums. Further out, it's worth a trip
