Don’t be a mule in Moscow. Read on for LUXE insider Béla Molnár Mr. Globetrotter‘s handy guide on where to stay and play during a weekend in the Russian capital. Vodka, optional.
Stay
Moss Hotel’s design is understated, and a world away from the gaudy glitz you sometimes find in Moscow. It’s all clean lines, Mid-Century modern furnishings and tasteful artwork on the walls. Hop on one of the hotel’s free bikes and get out to explore the city. And don’t forget to stock up on exclusive lotions and potions from Zielinski and Rozen, a tricky-to-find perfumery brand that has a store right in the hotel.
Shop
You can’t miss GUM, Moscow’s old, state department store and now a modern shopping mall. My Dad actually bought my first bicycle here back in its Communist days. Coming here isn’t like rocking up at Westfield or Macy’s. For one, GUM has a spectacular glass-roofed structure. And secondly, it actually sits on Red Square facing the Lenin Mausoleum. This is a shopping mall like no other – a real-deal city icon.
Eat
Severyane is where you can get your fill of breakfast eggs, pancakes and buckwheat porridge. Lunch at Ugolek, a bustling restaurant serving up grilled meat and fish, all cooked on antique cast iron stoves. Then for dinner, check out Pinch for impeccably presented, Italian inspired cuisine. And don’t forget to add Depo Moscow to your list, a huge tram depot turned food hall that houses an astounding 80 restaurants.
Drink
Try the signature Bellini at Sakhalin and get an eyeful of that amazing Moscow skyline.
Or if you’re prone to vertigo, head (figuratively) underground. Book your spot at Chainaya Tea and Cocktails, a cool, speakeasy-style cocktail bar where if your name’s not down, you’re not getting in.
‘Gram
VDNKh is a huge park full of fountains, pavilions and a massive statue of Lenin. It took me back 40 years to Communist-era Budapest. More eye candy can be found down in Moscow’s metro stations, some of which are pretty much palatial. They’re artistic and architectural wonders and perfect ‘gram fodder. And Red Square, obviously. Surrounded by astounding historical architecture like this you can’t help but get totally snap-happy.
Hero Image: Mr Globetrotter Béla Molnár
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