chef guided tour of pike place market

CHEF-GUIDED FOOD TOUR IN PIKE PLACE MARKET

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Chef’s    PERSPECTIVE

Of pike market place, a guided journey through the pacific northwest, tasting seattle’s best artisan vendors in the famous pike place market..

Get the inside scoop on where chefs shop and locals hang out .

Discover the vibrant food scene of Seattle with our expertly crafted food tours that take you on a journey through the Emerald City’s best local eats and hidden gems.

Join us on our Chef Guided Food Tour of Pike Place Market where you’ll taste your way through the historic market and learn about the history and cuisine of Seattle.

Our team of chefs have all worked in the professional kitchens. They will guide you through this rustic market, sharing their insider knowledge of the best restaurants and artisanal food producers. Along the way, you’ll grasp a better understanding of the artisans and small businesses who bring Seattle’s culinary scene to life.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a first-time visitor to Seattle, our food tours are the perfect way to experience the city’s diverse flavors and cultures. Book your tour today and join us on a delicious adventure through Seattle!

Please note that this is a fast paced market tour and not a leisurely restaurant tour. See FAQ below for more info!

*Eat Seattle is permitted and licensed by the Pike Place Market PDA to operate tours in the Pike Place Historical District. The PDA requires any business or person conducting tours within it’s properties and in the public areas of the historical district to be pre-approved and to have a license for this activity.

CHEF’S PERSPECTIVE

Our tours are run by chefs who contribute a culinary perspective, telling the story of the Northwest through its food.

LOCAL TASTE

We strategically choose our partners to ensure the best quality products of the Northwest are represented.

SMALL GROUP SIZE

We keep group-size smaller than most tours to create a more intimate, less touristy experience. This also creates a better dynamic to ask questions, absorb the information and connect with the other group members.

LOCAL FOOD WITH A PURPOSE

More than just providing great tasting food, our vendors serve as a talking-point to our farming, fishing and produce in the Northwest and what they are doing to maintain higher quality control than the average. Our team keeps the tours light-hearted but also bring some attention to our local food ecosystem and touch on awareness in certain industries.

RECEIVE 10% DISCOUNT

After the tour, all guests get a 10% discount card for not only the vendors we visited on the tour, but all of our market partners.

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“ Fabulous tour. Pike place market can be overwhelming- the tour helped to get a sense of the place and learn about its history too! The samples were delicious and we didn’t have to wait on lines. Chef Sean was fun and engaging. Highly recommend!”

“ I cannot recommend this tour enough!! It is a must!! Our guide was Chef Carolyn. She was so knowledgeable, helpful, kind and witty! She gave us great historic information about Pike Place Market as well as took us to some really delicious food spots in the Market.

She was very considerate and aware of any dietary restrictions of the group. The shop owners all loved her and it was easy to see why.

If you are in Seattle, you have to take this food tour!! You will not regret it!”

“Our family took the wonderful 2-hour foodie walking tour of Pike’s Place Market. We got to skip the line at many famous eateries and tried all sorts of delicacies from specialty chocolate to clam chowder to cheeses and sausages. We even got to try the James Beard award winning Philippino food hidden back in the market. Chef Carolyn was amazing! She told us all sorts of stories about the history of the market and food stalls and food and recipe facts from her many years as a chef and restaurant owner. We highly recommend this tour.”

Meet at Simply Seattle

2-hour walking & tasting tour, operates 7 days a week, year-round, 10% discount on vendors.

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Cancellations

What is the cancellation policy.

All sales are final.

Will the tour be cancelled if it rains?

It rains often in Seattle so we keep all tours operating regardless of the weather. Fortunately, a good deal of the tour is covered.

Extra Guests

Are pets allowed.

Fury friends are not recommended, as they aren’t allowed in many parts of the market. You’ll have to wait outside which defeats the purpose.

Can I bring kids on the food tours?

You may bring your children as we leave it up to the parent to make the judgment as to whether they will enjoy this type of activity. Children 3 and under who will not be eating, do not need to buy a ticket.

Can kids join the tour?

Yes, kids may join the tours. We leave it up to the parents to make the judgement as to whether or not this it is an activity they would enjoy. Learning and tasting is for everyone!

How much food will be served on the Tasting Food Tour?

The two-hour tour consists of 9 stops and several different small bites. Many people consider this a meal.

The one-hour version consists of 4-5 stops and is just a small taste of Pike Place.

*note that we have 16 vendors and different guides have different routes depending on the day of the week and time of day.

What if I eat Gluten Free or am Lactose Intolerant?

We do not  recommend this tour for those who are dairy free, vegan or gluten free.

Not all tastings contain gluten or dairy. We can’t accommodate these restrictions for all food samples but will do our best to make substitutions where we can. Please notify us in advance so that we can plan accordingly.

What if I’m vegetarian?

Eat Seattle can accommodate vegetarians but we cannot make substitutions for other dietary restrictions. Please notify us at least 24 hours in advance of your tour if you will need vegetarian substitutions.

Miscellaneous

Are restrooms available during the tours.

Yes, there are public restrooms available in the market but they aren’t always on the route of the tour. We recommend you go before you arrive to the starting point.

Is this a fun event for local Seattleites?

Absolutely, the  Food Tours of Pike Place Market  are designed to uncover the story of the Northwest through food. Locals will gain food and history knowledge along the way.

Where do we meet?

Food Tours meet outside of  Simply Seattle  located at 1600 First Ave, Seattle. Please arrive 10 minutes before your event starts. This is at Pine and First about one block from Pike Place Market.

If it is raining, feel free to grab a cup of coffee inside Seattle Coffee Works next door and meet the tour guide outside when he/she arrives.

Is there luggage storage?

Eat Seattle doesn’t have a physical location so we can’t keep your bags. We suggest calling the Purple Store on Stewart (one block from starting location) as they do luggage storage. Phone number is:

(206) 801-1599

Are there discounts for children?

It is a requirement that anyone eating on the tour pays full price.

Can I pay in cash?

All tours must be booked through the eatseattletours.com website.

Should I tip the guide?

Gratuities are appreciated for all tours.

YOUR TASTE BUDS WILL THANK YOU

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The Original Food and Culture Tour of Pike Place Market

This tour is Pike Place Market 101! Follow the pink umbrella and discover food, facts and fun at the oldest continuously operating market in the United States.

2 – 2.25 Hours

8 + Tastings

Family-Friendly

Classic Seattle

10:00 am, 10:30 am, 2:00 pm, and 2:30 pm

Unexpected Productions Market Theatre (The Gum Wall) 1428 Post Alley

• Delicious tastings from 8 Market vendors
• Entertaining stories of the Market’s rich history and culture
• Why throwing fish is legitimately good for business
• The secret behind the “first” Starbucks store

Join us for Seattle’s original food and cultural tour of Pike Place Market! On our signature tour, we’ll take you on a journey through the lively and bustling days in the heart of Seattle: Pike Place Market. While our guides give you the most delicious tastings we could find at EIGHT different partners, you’ll also learn the history of the market and hear the stories of the small-batch food and craft producers that make this place one of Seattle’s most beloved landmarks. Find out why fish fly, why a pig is our mascot, how the “Original” Starbucks was founded, how an alleyway became covered in gum, what made the market one of Anthony Bourdain’s favorite places, and many more pieces of info we’ll be thrilled to share with you while you savor our favorite culinary offerings. Once you’re done, you’ll be equipped and ready to dive deeper into the neighborhood.

Savor Seattle is permitted and licensed by the Pike Place Market Preservation and Development Authority (PDA) to operate tours in the Pike Place Market Historical District. The PDA requires any business or person conducting paid tours within its properties and in the public areas of the historical district to be pre-approved and to have a license for this activity.

Daily Dozen Doughnut Company

Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts

Frank’s Produce

Seasonal and local fruit

Pike Place Chowder

Award-winning clam chowder

Rachel’s Ginger Beer

Original or Seasonal Ginger Beer

Chukar Cherries

Dried Northwest cherries and chocolate confections

Turkish Delight

Lentil Soup and Turkish Delight

Seatown Rub Shack & Fish Fry

Blue North Cod Fish and Chips

and more…

We do our best to keep tasting information up to date. From time to time, tastings and locations may change due to availability and seasonality. Thanks in advance for your adventurous appetite and understanding!

• Hat and/or sunglasses
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Weather-appropriate clothing
• Gratuity for the tour guide

Due to our passion for accurately displaying the amazing foods Pike Place Market has to offer, we cannot always accommodate dietary restrictions. We certainly do our best and many places have options, but a few favorites of ours simply do not. Please reach out to us if you have any questions to see if you like what we have to offer.

Substitutions must be indicated in advance at time of ticket purchase.

Others Tours You Might Like

Insider’s Breakfast and Culture Tour of Pike Place Market

Savor breakfasty Seattle food treats, the Market’s morning hum, coveted one-on-one time with merchants, with a guide who has been a member of the community for years!

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©2023 Savor Seattle Food Tours. All Rights Reserved Savor Seattle is permitted and licensed by the Pike Place Market Preservation and Development Authority (PDA) to operate tours in the Pike Place Market Historical District. The PDA requires any business or person conducting paid tours within its properties and in the public areas of the historical district to be pre-approved and to have a license for this activity.

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Enjoy 10% off tour bookings and gift certificates! Use the code: SAVORHOLIDAY23 at check out (valid through Monday, December 25th). Not valid for the Gourmet Kayak Expedition.

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Food Tour of Pike Place Market Vacation Package

Private Seattle Sightseeing & Cocktail Cruise + Chef Guided Food Tour of Pike Place Market

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iFLY Seattle + Chef Guided Food Tour of Pike Place Market

Explore Seattle’s vibrant culinary scene on this chef-guided Pike Place Market food tour. Uncover hidden gems and get the inside scoop on where the chefs shop and locals hang out. This fast-paced walking tour includes nine small tastings at curated stops. Learn about the history of Seattle and gain a unique culinary perspective on this 2-hour Seattle food tour. up to 2 hrs 1 or more people

Good To Know

• Discover the story of the Northwest through food on this chef-led walking tour of Pike Place Market.
• Includes 9 different stops with tastings and a discount card for vendors.
• Guided by a local chef, offering a unique culinary perspective of the Emerald City.
• The tour lasts about 2 hours and meets outside of Simply Seattle at 1600 First Ave. (at Pine and First). Arrive 10 minutes before your tour time.
• This is a fast-paced walking tour with some stairs, cobblestone streets and inclines. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
• Gratuities are not included but are always appreciated.

Description

Chef Guided Food Tour of Pike Place Market Reviews

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Chef Guided Food Tour of Pike Place Market is located at Eat Seattle Tours • 1600 First Avenue • Seattle , WA 98101

Nearby Things to Do

• 3 Hour Seattle City Tour
• Private Walking Tour of Seattle: Highlights of the Pacific Northwest
• Seattle Harbor Cruise
• Seattle Locks Cruise
• Sky View Observatory

Nearby Hotels & Lodging

• The State Hotel
• Hilton Seattle
• Lotte Hotel Seattle
• Hilton Garden Inn Seattle Downtown
• Pan Pacific Seattle

Frequently Asked Questions about Chef Guided Food Tour of Pike Place Market

Where is the tour meeting point.

The Chef Guided Food Tour of Pike Place Market meets outside of Simply Seattle, located at 1600 First Avenue, Seattle. This is at Pine and First, about one block from Pike Place. Please arrive 10 minutes before your event starts.

What happens if it rains?

It rains often in Seattle so the tour will operate regardless of the weather. Fortunately, a good deal of the tour is covered.

Can I bring my pet with me?

Pets are not recommended, as they aren’t allowed at most of the stops on the tours.

Are children welcome?

The tour is recommended for ages 5 and up. However, the tour operator leaves it up to the parent to make the judgment as to whether their children will enjoy this type of activity. Please note that anyone eating on the tour pays full price, there are no discounts for children. Children 3 and under who will not be eating, do not need to buy a ticket.

What if I eat gluten free or am lactose intolerant?

This tour is not recommended for those who are dairy free, vegan or gluten free. Not all tastings contain gluten or dairy, however, the tour operator cannot accommodate these restrictions for all food samples. They will do their best to make substitutions where they can with advance notice so that they can plan accordingly. Please make a note of any dietary restrictions at time of booking or contact the operator at the number on your e-ticket at least 24 hours prior to your tour.

What if I'm vegetarian?

Eat Seattle can accommodate vegetarians but cannot make substitutions for other dietary restrictions. If you will need vegetarian substitutions, please make a note of this at time of booking or contact the operator at the number on your e-ticket at least 24 hours prior to your tour.

Are there public restrooms available on the tour?

Yes, there are public restrooms available in the market but they aren’t always on the route of the tour. We recommend you go before you arrive to the starting point.

Are gratuities included?

Gratuities are not included in the tour price but are always appreciated.

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Chef John's tasty tours

Hosted by Chef John Brink, Chief Market Insider

Happiness guaranteed, pike place market.

Chef John Brink, Chief Market Insider, will provide you with an insider tour of the Pike Place Market, Seattle's premier food and artisan crafts person marketplace. The Tasty Tours Pike Place Market Insider tour will introduce you to the many award-winning food vendors and the craftspeople who make the Market a world-renowned destination.

With over a century of history, Pike Place Market is a beloved institution that reflects Seattle's vibrant food scene, cultural diversity, and entrepreneurial spirit.

We are passionate about the market and its community, and we'll share our insider knowledge with you, answering your questions and providing tips on how to make the most of your time at the market. Chef John's Tasty Tour provides the only insider tour of the Pike Place Market, a tour you'll love and always remember.

PIke Place Market Authority Permit

Tasty Tours is permitted and licensed by the Pike Place Market Preservation and Development Authority (PDA) to operate tours in the Pike Place Market Historical District. The PDA requires any business or person conducting paid tours within its properties and in the public areas of the historical district to be pre-approved and to have a license for this activity.

Tour ScHedule

Every day - 10:30 am, chef john's tasty tours - pike place market.

Meet @ The Crumpet Shop

2-Hour Market Insider Tour

Every Day - 1 PM

Chef john's tasty tours - pike place market, th, fr & sa - 5 pm, chef john's tasty tours - pike place market happy hour tour.

Meet @ The Truffle Queen

2-Hour Happy Hour Tour

CHEF JOHN'S TASTY TOUR MARKET INSIDER

Market insider tour - $53.50.

During the Tour, you'll explore Pike Place Market's bustling alleys and hidden corners, learning about its unique architecture, art installations, and historic landmarks. You'll discover the stories behind some of the market's most popular vendors, like the Pike Place Fish fishmongers and local bakers

CHEF JOHN'S TASTY HAPPY HOUR TOUR

Happy hour tour - $30.

Explore The Market's best happy-hour spots with Chef John. Beyond the usual, he reveals The Market's hidden treasures, intertwining tales of its history. As evening nears, witness the unseen moments of Market vendors and artisans at ease post-shift. More than a tour, it's a genuine Pike Place immersion!

Special Requests Available

For small group tours, we can customize an itinerary to emphasize your interests. If you have a special request, send us a message, and we will be sure to get back to you soon.

Chef John's Tasty Tours

[email protected] 206-605-3213

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11 Best Pike Place Market Food Tours – By a Hungry Local

Looking for the best Pike Place Food Tours in Seattle? Let me break them down for you!

Pike Place Market, established in 1907, is a bustling and iconic historic landmark in downtown Seattle overlooking Elliott Bay. The Market is not only one of the oldest public markets in the US, but it’s also one of the largest, spanning about 9 acres with over 370 shops, craft vendors, and restaurants , which means food tours galore!

Having lived in Seattle for 9 years and still living in Washington state, I’m well-acquainted with Pike Place Market and its tours. I’m never disappointed, as I enjoy trying unique foods and always learn something new about the area despite being a local.

Here is my list of 11 best food tours to eat your way through Pike Place Market.

If you don’t have time to read the whole article, this is my top pick for a food tour in the market:

Chef Guided Food Tour

I enjoy that a food professional expertly guides you through the flavors you’re tasting so you can appreciate the food a lot better.

PIN IT FOR LATER!

My Top 3 Favorite Places to Hit on a Pike Place Market Food Tour

Pike Place Market is full of diverse and delicious foods from fresh produce, to locally caught fish, to hot donuts. Because there’s so much to taste in Pike Place Market, food tours can’t hit them all.

However, if a tour samples one of these businesses, I’m a happy camper!

• Pike Place Chowder – I’m not the biggest seafood fan, but hands down, Pike Place Chowder’s clam chowder is out of this world! It is my par for clam chowder!
• Rachel’s Ginger Beer – I love all the different flavors and colors that you can find at Rachel’s, it’s so refreshing on a hot summer day. And when they add some booze to it….omg!
• Turkish Delight – It’s always hard to decide if I like their Turkish delights or their different flavored baklavas the most. Either way, I love this stop!

Best Seattle Walking Food Tours

1. show me seattle food tours.

⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 stars ⏳ Tour Length: 2 hrs

>> Check Rates and Availability for Show Me Seattle Food Tours Here! <<

Why Choose This Tour? This food tour is one of the originals of its kind in the city, so you know they know their stuff. Show Me Seattle will introduce you to an array of the market’s famous foods, teach you all about it fascinating history, and even give you some insider shopping tips to implement afterwards!

😍 My Favorite Part: Eclectic food tastings

The Show Me Seattle Food Tour includes:

• 8+ food tastings from Pike Place Market vendors
• Small groups of no more than 12ppl 
• Food vendors could include: 3 Girls Bakery, Honest Biscuits, Beecher’s Cheese, Pike Place Chowder, Pike’s Pit BBQ, Pike Place Fish, Bottega Italiana, Los Agaves, Tiny’s Organic, Saffron Spice, and more

What Past Foodies Have Said: “ Chip was awesome! He was so knowledgeable and friendly and the food was amazing! Definitely buy the cherries. ” – Kim (read more reviews )

2. Chef Guided Food Tour with Eat Seattle

⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 stars ⏳ Tour Length: 2 hrs ⚠️ Likely to Sell Out!

>> Check Rates and Availability for Chef Guided Food Tour Here! <<

Why Choose This Tour? Founded by a Cordon Bleu Paris chef and led by a team of other local chefs, you’ll be getting exclusive “insider knowledge” on the foods you’ll be sampling on a Chef Guided Food Tour of Pike Place Market. Receive a culinary perspective of how local chefs select their seasonal produce and meats right here in the market.

Also, I like how $1 of your ticket goes to support Pike Place Market directly. 

😍 My Favorite Part: Feels like you learn more as chef tour guides can answer more in-depth culinary questions.

The Chef Guided Food Tour includes:

• 9 different food vendor locations (every guide has their own food route, so it will be a surprise which ones you hit)
• Small groups of around 10ppl
• Receive 10% discount to market vendors after the tour to continue your feasting
• Food vendors could include: Maiz, Pike Place Chowder, MarketSpice, Truffle Queen, Frank’s Quality Produce, Beecher’s Handmade Cheese, Chukar Cherries, Indi Chocolate

What Past Foodies Have Said: “ Learning the history of Pike Place, the stories of the shops and restaurants we visited and of course sampling of a wide variety of food. Our guide, Brendan, was the best! His enthusiasm and personality made the tour! ” – Lane (read more reviews )

3. Early-Bird Tasting Tour with Show Me Seattle

>> Check Rates and Availability for Early-Bird Tasting Tour Here! <<

Why Choose This Tour? This early-bird access food tour gets you ahead of the crowds, allowing you to have more personal time with the food vendors and enjoy the quieter morning atmosphere of the market.

😍 My Favorite Part: Hitting the market early in the morning before it gets clogged with tourists.

The Early-Bird Tasting Tour includes:

• Special discount on artisan espresso drinks before the tour
• VIP discount at select partners on return visit
• Food vendors could include: 3 Girls Bakery, Honest Biscuits, MarketSpice, Pike Place Fish, The Confectional, Tiny’s Organic, Saffron Spice, Los Agaves, Chukar Cherries

What Past Foodies Have Said : “ It was really beneficial being able to enter the market early so it wasn’t so crowded. Our tour guide, Lucky, was fabulous. He has a great personality and considerable knowledge of the market, the vendors, and the history of the market, in addition to a large breadth of knowledge about Seattle in general. ” – Cheryl (read more reviews )

4. Seafood Tasting Tour with Thoughtful Chef Tours

⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 stars ⏳ Tour Length: 1.5 hrs

>> Check Rates and Availability for Seafood Tasting Tour Here! <<

Why Choose This Tour? Try everything seafood from soups to jerky to donuts (that’s not a typo!). Chef Carolyn is an experienced cook from Louisiana, sharing her knowledge on the market’s history and taking you on a well-rounded fishy tour. 

😍 My Favorite Part: So many different ways to eat seafood!

The Seafood Tasting Tour includes:

• 6 seafood samplings
• Small groups of no more than 12ppl
• Seafood vendors could include: Pike Place Chowder, Totem Smokehouse, Market Grill, Pike Place Fish Market, Wild Fish Poke, Pure Food Fish Market

What Past Foodies Have Said: “ Chef Carolyn was AMAZING!! She had amazing stories and incredible seafood to pair with it. We absolutely loved our tour. ” – Deborah (read more reviews )

5. Plant Based Food Tour with Sum Good Tours

⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 stars ⏳ Tour Length: 2.5 hrs

>> Check Rates and Availability for Plant Based Food Tour Here! <<

Why Choose This Tour? It’s not often you find a niche food tour that caters to vegans. With all the seafood surrounding the market it can get tricky finding unique plant-only foods. This tour fixes that and introduces you to vegan foods you may not have even known existed.

Non-vegans are of course welcome!

Pro Tip: something they offer that most other food tours don’t is cater to food allergies. Just let them know ahead of time.

😍 My Favorite Part: As a meat-eater, I am surprised how good vegan food can be when prepared right!

The Plant Based Food Tour includes:

• 12 vegan guided tastings
• Discount to partner vendors to continue your vegan journey
• Vegan food vendors could include: Truffle Queen, 3 Girls Bakery, Maiz

What Past Foodies Have Said: “ Learned that vegan food is not nasty and bland. Might consider the lifestyle change. Will was an extraordinary, knowledgeable, and pleasant tour guide. ” – Connie (read more reviews )

6. Happy Hour Tour (21+) with Sum Good Tours

>> Check Rates and Availability for Happy Hour Food Tour Here! <<

Why Choose This Tour? Drink an equivalent of 3 cocktails between all the stops (Rachel’s Ginger Beer is my favorite stop), eat delicious food pairings, and learn about the history of Seattle and its relationship with libations to combat the dreary days. Venture through the market and even a couple stops outside of it.

😍 My Favorite Part: Alcohol! Need I say more? Haha!

The Happy Hour Tour includes:

• 4 wine, beer, and cocktail tastings (non-alcoholic drinks available upon request)
• 4 food pairings with drinks
• Happy Hour vendors could include: Rachel’s Ginger Beer, The Truffle Queen, El Baracho

What Past Foodies Have Said: “ Our tour guide Will provided an amazing tour – with plenty to eat and drink. He was so thoughtful and continuously checked in with each person on the tour. He was interesting and fun and the folks on the tour made it even better. When we were done – I was stuffed and a little buzzed. It was a great time and I’d say worth the money .” – Joyce (read more reviews )

7. Happy Hour Haunted Tour (21+) with Thoughtful Chef Tours

⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars ⏳ Tour Length: 2 hrs

>> Check Rates and Availability for Haunted Happy Hour Tour Here! <<

Why Choose This Tour? Meet some spirits and drink them too! Take a spooky ghost tour of Pike Place Market, led by a knowledgeable guide who will share scary historical stories while exploring the underground market, an Irish pub in an old mortuary (I think it definitely feels haunted), and dark hallways, all while providing some alcoholic libations along the way.

😍 My Favorite Part: It’s like getting a two-for-one tour! Definitely need the drinks to handle the scary stories.

The Haunted Happy Hour Tour includes:

• 3 alcoholic beverages
• Food vendors could include: Kell’s Irish Pub and Rachel’s Ginger Beer

What Past Sum Good Tour Guests Have Said: “ Special way to explore a world-famous market with booze and scary stories to boot. ” – David (read more reviews ) 

8. Snack Safari with Sum Good Tours

⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars ⏳ Tour Length: 1.5 hrs ⚠️ Likely to Sell Out!

>> Check Rates and Availability for Snack Safari Here! <<

Why Choose This Tour? This is a great, quick overview of Pike Place Market that will give you a healthy sampling of its diverse variety of foods while also learning factoids about its history and exploring some of the lesser-known corners of the market.

😍 My Favorite Part: Unique foods not tasted on other food tours

The Snack Safari Tour includes:

• Snacks (duh!)
• Food vendors could include: Pike Place Chowder, The Confectional, Freya Bakery, Rachel’s Ginger Beer

What Past Safari Snack Tour Guests Have Said: “ I was beyond impressed! Will was our tour guide and he was the BOMB! He knew all about Seattle and other things to do as well! All the good places we stopped was amazing! We stopped at more places then I thought we would ” – Elizabeth (read more reviews )

9. Sunrise Stroll with Savor Seattle

>> Check Rates and Availability for Sunrise Stroll Here! <<

Why Choose This Tour?  Arrive before the crowds and watch the market come to life as vendors wake up and prepare for the day.

This food tour not only lets you taste some of the best morning bites to be found, but your guide has a close relationship with the shopkeepers, making you feel like you are just out meeting friends and getting the inside scoop of market happenings. By the end you’ll also feel like a local.

Finish the tour on a quiet rooftop garden oasis with beautiful Seattle views.

😍 My Favorite Part: Getting ahead of the crowds and not having to eat breakfast before the tour lol!

The Sunrise Stroll Tour includes:

• Breakfast-y foods and drink
• Food vendors could include: Honey Biscuit, Daily Dozen, MarketSpice, Pike Place Fish Market, Frank’s Quality Produce

What Past Sunrise Stroll Tour Guests Have Said: “ I’ve been to Pike Place a couple times before and through this tour saw a totally new side of the market…With the Sunrise Stroll option, it definitely felt more of a premium and relaxed experience and is worth the extra cost ” (read more reviews )

10. Taste and Tour with Thoughtful Chef Tours

>> Check Rates and Availability for Taste and Tour Here! <<

Why Choose This Tour? No dilly-dallying on this tour. You’ll be eating and walking your way around the market, efficiently hitting up vendors who give out healthy samplings of their goods. Chef Carolyn knows these merchants by name and shares with you all about their personal stories as well as educating you on the foods you’re eating from a professional chef’s point of view.

😍 My Favorite Part: Super informative, makes you excited about food and tips for cooking at home.

The Taste and Tour includes:

• 7 food samplings
• Food vendors could include: Pike Place Chowder, Totem Smokehouse, The Confectional, Market Grill, Pike Place Fish Market, Simply the Best, Indi Chocolate, Pizza and Pasta Bar

What Past Taste and Tour Guests Have Said: “ Our tour guide, Carolyn Manning was amazing and went above and beyond our expectations. The tour was fabulously planned out, making for a terrific two hours. Carolyn was very knowledgeable on the city and history of Seattle. I would do this tour again, with Carolyn, in a flash. ” – Julie (read more reviews )

11. Signature Food Tour with Savor Seattle

>> Check Rates and Availability for Signature Food Tour Here! <<

Why Choose This Tour? Boasting to be Seattle’s original food tour at Pike Place Market, you’re sure to be in experienced good hands. Your guide will show you the ins-and-outs of the market and its history while sampling a variety of large samples.

😍 My Favorite Part: passionate tour guide and the best clam chowder!

The Signature Food Tour includes:

• 8 tastings at Pike Place Market vendors
• Groups of no more than 16ppl 
• Food vendors could include: Daily Dozen, Frank’s Quality Produce, Pike Place Chowder, Rachel’s Ginger Beer, Chukar Cherries, Turkish Delight, Etta’s Big Mountain BBQ

What Past Signature Food Tour Guests Have Said: “ Ron had a lot of stories to tell and showed us intersecting spots. The food we tasted was delicious, and in very good portions. We would definately do it again. ” – Katherine (read more reviews )

Looking for other Seattle food tours? Check these out: 😋 7 Best Food Tours in Seattle 🍩 Donut Tour in Seattle!

What to Expect on a Pike Place Food Tour

Pike Place Market is famous for fish throwing, endless bouquets of fresh (cheap!) flowers, views of Mt. Rainier , the “original” Starbucks, the Gum Wall, and FOOD!

Pike Place food tours are a fun way of sampling all the flavors the market has to offer led by local experts who know the vendors personally and will share their knowledge of Seattle history along the way. 

You’ll meet your guide at a pre-designated spot somewhere inside the market or on the outskirts. They’ll tell you what color shirt or identifying feature to look out for.

Groups tend to stay small, so guides do not need a microphone to be heard. In fact, they are prohibited within the market, which I appreciate.

Because only a certain number of tour participants are allowed in the market at a time, you’ll be given a Pike Place Market PDA issued sticker to wear during the tour to be identified as a tour guest and not a random visitor.

Your guide will lead you from food stop to food stop, introducing you to the vendors who make all the delectables. They’ll point out what makes each sampling special and help you savor and appreciate each food. Sometimes they might have you wait outside the shop while they go gather your food samples, allowing you to not have to face the crowds inside. 

Wear comfortable shoes! These will all be walking tours, so make sure you can stay on your feet for about a mile over a period of 2 hours. Most of it will be flat, but there will probably be a steep hill or two.

Tours will operate rain or shine. This is the PNW, so rain is inevitable, but that doesn’t mean your tour will be canceled. Keep an eye on the weather and dress accordingly. I always wear layers.

During the summer, it can get super hot within the market as the sun reflects off all the windows onto the pavement. As someone susceptible to heat stroke, I know I have to prepare for hot sun here.

Accessibility varies . Pike Place Market is old, which means there are still original cobblestones or steps-only places making it not wheel friendly. Check with your tour company to see if they are wheelchair or stroller accessible.

No food destination is guaranteed . While most tours will have their regular vendors that they stop at, due to scheduling and availability, your guide might have to find a different vendor to substitute for another. Just go with the flow and try not to be disappointed if you don’t hit a vendor you were anticipating.

You’ll be surprisingly satiated . Because you’ll be sampling so many different foods, you usually end up eating about a light meal’s worth. You’ll undoubtedly feel full and satisfied afterwards.

Dietary restrictions vary . If you have special dietary restrictions, some accommodations can usually be made, especially for vegetarians. Let your tour operator know ahead of time so they can find a substitute if they are able.

🛏️🛏️🛏️ Need a Place to Stay in Seattle? >> Find a Hotel Here! << (I recommend Inn at the Market as it’s in Pike Place Market!)

Epilogue: Pike Place Market Food Tours

Pike Place food tours are a great way of tasting what the market has to offer without having to buy full portions. I think it’s a fantastic way to try a variety of foods and discover where you would like to go back and experience more.

I also love learning about Seattle’s history and the fascinating stories about Pike Place Market. I always seem to learn a new tidbit of information I didn’t know before. 

Food tour guides help you navigate the overwhelming amount of food stops and flavors in the market, all while keeping the tour entertaining and informative. They will most certainly leave an impression and make your tour memorable.

Book a Pike Place Market tour for food the next time you visit the Emerald City!

🌲 Washington Travel Planning Guide 🌲

🚨  Should I buy Washington travel insurance?

YES  — I recommend  Travel Insurance Master  because you can compare multiple options with one click. With plans starting at $5/day per person, why not give yourself piece of mind? Better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it!

 🚗  Is it safe to rent a car in Washington?

YES  — It’s totally safe to drive in Washington. And unless you are planning to just stay in Seattle, renting a car is pretty much a necessity! Beware of tolls whether crossing bridges or driving in HOV lanes. I recommend Discover Cars as they have some of the best prices around.

📞  Will my phone work in Washington?

YES  — All major cell providers work in Washington. However, be prepared for some dead spots in the more remote parts like in the middle of the cascades.

🛏️  What’s the best way to book my Washington accommodations?

For Washington hotels,  Booking.com  is amazing because you can often reserve your room with no money down. If you are looking at Airbnbs for a more home-like stay, don’t forget to check  VRBO  for potentially better prices and options.

✈️  What’s the best site to buy Washington flights?

I recommend looking at  Skyscanner  for finding cheap flights.  Pro Tip : check if flying into Everett is cheaper than flying into Seattle.

🛂  Do I need a passport to visit Washington?

NO  — If you are a US citizen, you do not need a passport as Washington is part of the United States. If you are from out of the country, the same passport and visa requirements are the same as entering anywhere in the United States from your country.

🧳 What should I pack to Washington?

Layers! Layers! Layers! Weather can get finnicky, so prepare for both rain and sunny warm days. Wear comfortable walking shoes that can go from city strolls to mountain hiking.

Aloha! I'm Tabitha, an ex-travel agent turned travel blogger. I've lived from fire (Big Island Hawaii) to ice (Alaska) to the lukewarm (Washington State). I've traveled Europe, Scotland and England being my favorite, Costa Rica, Cancun, Canada, various US states, and more. No matter if it's a staycation or international vacation, every trip I take there are things to explore and discover! I'm here to take what I learn and help others think outside the box when composing their own travel itineraries.

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Travel, Style, Food & Fun

Chef Guided Pike Place Market Food Tour

Food Tours are one of my favorite activities to do when visiting a new city. Pike Place Market is one of my most frequented spots in Seattle so when I saw that Eat Seattle had a Food Tour inside Pike Place Market, I had to do it!

Though my tour was complimentary, all photos and opinions are my own.

Eat Seattle Chef Guided Pike Place Market Tour Tickets for the tour are pretty well priced at $52+ per person. Other food tours I have been on are usually upwards of $100+. Another difference between this tour and others is that your tour guide is a chef! Someone with culinary experience doesn’t just love food, but knows the ins and outs of food too. Another reason I love food tours are that they introduce you to new food spots and restaurants that you have probably never visited before.

Joe Chocolate Co I have walked by this place many times but had never been before. We tried the Joe iced mocha and the chocolate covered cashews. Mochas are my favorite coffee drink and there’s was fantastic. Really milky and not as strong coffee taste so even my friend that doesn’t like coffee enjoyed it. I am also not usually a fan of cashews but these were so delectable.

Not only will you get to sample some delicious foods but you will also get some great history of Seattle, Pike Place Market and the restaurants.

Chukar Cherries Here you will get to sample some of my personal favorites in the market: dark chocolate covered cherry, cocoa powder covered chocolate cherry, white chocolate raspberry covered cranberry, and a honey roasted dark chocolate covered pecan.

You may be surprised to know that Pike Place Market actually has multiple levels and buildings. During the tour you will get to see some of the lower levels and walk throughout the market so you can explore a bit. You will also have the opportunity for restrooms breaks.

Ellenos Yogurt You may be wondering what’s so great about yogurt? Ellenos is. They are the only brand of yogurt I’ve tasted that tastes like a dessert. I actually eat Ellenos yogurt nightly for dessert. You will get to sample the Marionberry Yogurt.

Have you heard of Rachel the Pig? You can give her a pet on your tour and learn about what she’s here for.

Simply the Best I promise you have never tasted dried fruit this good. Simply the Best has a ton of dried fruits and vegetables to choose from. We sampled the dried cucumbers, cantaloupe, and apple chips. My personal favorite is the dried cantaloupe.

This next stop was not a food spot, but actually a secret spot. Though I’ve lived in the area for 3 years I didn’t even know where this was. You will get to explore the Pike Place Market Secret Garden. This garden serves the local food bank. There are a few cute photo spots to snap too.

Pikes Pit BBQ Barbeque is most likely the last thing you think of when visiting Seattle, but being from the southeast I can tell you that this Barbeque is the real deal. You will get to sample some pulled pork with barbeque sauce and coleslaw. It was delicious.

Truffle Queen At first I thought the truffles we were about to taste were chocolate, but I’m glad I was wrong. Truffle Queen imports fresh Italian Black Truffles weekly to make their products. We got to sample the black truffle salt, white parmesan truffle cream with black truffle balsamic, red pesto truffle sauce, and lemon curd.

Pike Place Chowder If the line is long, you know the food is worth the wait. Luckily, you wont have to wait in line at any of the restaurants during the tour. Pike Place Chowder easily has the longest line in the market because the chowder is so dang good. You will get to sample the classic clam chowder, but make sure to visit again later to sample one of the other 15+ flavors.

Pizza & Pasta Bar Good pizza can sometimes be hard to find but not here. The margarita pizza is full of cheesy goodness.

Indi Chocolate Do you know where chocolate comes from? You will get to learn about the answer and the farms where Indi Chocolate gets it’s products from. You will also get to sample an unbelievable brown butter dark chocolate cocoa nib cookie. Yep, that’s a mouthful but your mouth will love it. You will also get to sample (but not taste) the body care products made with cocoa butter.

Learn more and book your tour with Eat Seattle HERE .

Finding the fun everywhere life takes us! Love, Olivia Michelle

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25+ Ways to Celebrate Mom for Mother’s Day at Pike Place Market

Home › Blog › Shopping › 25+ Ways to Celebrate Mom for Mother’s Day at Pike Place Market

25+ Ways to Celebrate Mom for Mother's Day

If you’re looking for things to do this Mother’s Day weekend in Seattle, look no further than Pike Place Market! Our 9-acre historic district is chalk full of unique gifts, fresh ingredients to build a special meal, restaurants to break bread with loved ones, and experiences to make it a memorable time with mom.

It’s a great weekend to visit the Market as we celebrate a cherished tradition with the 16th Annual Flower Festival on May 11 – 12.

Something Sweet

Bring the warmth and comfort of a delicious cup of chai home at Aditi Chai , steeped in history over generations of women with Aditi’s 100-year-old family recipe. Shop the boxed gift set of both their popular chai concentrate flavors, Original Masala and Turmeric Ginger. This special gift box includes a branded travel thermos to keep mom’s chai hot on the move!

Bite Society

Take advantage of this one-stop shop at Bite Society for delicious and thoughtful treats! Pick up their 4-tin cookie gift set and get it wrapped in a collectible tote bag and tissue. Purchase a tote and get a bonus choice of a special Mother’s Day greeting card, designed by the talented artists who craft all of their classically branded tattoo tins.

Bonnie B’s Peppers

Stop by Bonnie B’s Peppers for an array of pickled treats and combinations for any foodie. Purchase any gift boxed set, including their Box o’ Love, and get their signature cheese bread spread half off! It’s the perfect addition for grilling season and adding zest to any plate.

Chukar Cherries

Chukar Cherries has long been known for their iconic chocolate-covered treats. Each batch is crafted from their own cherry orchards in eastern Washington and layered with artisanal chocolate without the use of fillers or preservatives. Women-owned and operated with her daughters on board, founder Pam Montgomery personally designed their latest chocolate assortment to spoil mom with something special this Mother’s Day.

Build a special gift set for mom with a genuine handcrafted “pichet”, or ceramic pitcher. Add a branded Le Pichet tote, boxed caramels, and any to-go bottle of wine for half off to complete the set!

Pick up a passion fruit and mango pavlova on special for Mother’s Day at Le Panier . Pavlovas are soft and light cakes made with a soft meringue crust and filled with whipped cream and fresh fruit. Don’t miss this decadent treat by the staple French bakery in the Market!

Fresh from the Farm

Black Forest Mushrooms

Show mom how mush she means to you with delectably fresh gourmet hyperlocal mushrooms from Black Forest Mushrooms . For the wellness-focused, try out their mushroom powders, great for mixing into coffee, smoothies, or any beverage to add a naturally energizing boost of nutrients.

Puget Sound Cider Company

Purchase any two bottles of ciders (for 21+ only) from Puget Sound Cider Company and receive a free bottle of sparkling heirloom apple juice to bring to your family gatherings this Mother’s Day weekend. All their ciders are crafted locally, grown on their orchard in Ellensburg, Washington and bottled just south of Seattle. These heritage ciders are priced at $27 each. Offer valid May 11 – 12 while supplies last!

Unique & Handmade Gifts

Catshy Crafts

For handmade whimsical pieces that are everlasting, stop by Catshy Crafts booth in the Craft Market for felt flower statement brooches. Priced at $22, each piece is made with care to dress up a denim jacket, hat, or any other of mom’s preferred accessories!

City Kid Style

For fans of the upcycled and vintage, shop with City Kid Style to find unique Zippered pouches, iPad cases and bags crafted from vintage quilts for stylish touches to protect all their devices. Products range between $36 – 56.

Crystal Bouquet

Shop with Crystal Bouquet for elegant pressed flower frames. Her pieces include a sentimental message for appreciation, beautiful flowers framed in for an everlasting keepsake. Don’t miss her night lights and pendants too for the floral fanatic! Prices for frames range between $58 – 74.

DrinkingStraws.Glass

Looking for eco-friendly gifts? DrinkingStraws.Glass launched exclusive new designs just in time for Mother’s Day! Treat mom to a handcrafted glass straw to sip stylishly. Hand-sculpted and one-of-a-kind, choose from the sculpted tulip perfect for spring, or others like the green frog for a vibrant whimsical option. Dishwasher-safe and sold with a lifetime guarantee, each are priced at $30.

Eclipse Hat Shop

For the fashion-forward mom, shop a variety of elegant and imported hats at Eclipse Hat Shop on Western Avenue. Berets by Laulhere of France are a classic and timeless accessory for any stylish woman. Priced between $75 – 150.

Golden Age Collectables

For the mom who loves to gather everyone together and enjoy games, stop in at Golden Age Collectables. Here you can browse a variety of entertainment for family game night based on the classic film, The Princess Bride ! Prices range from $20 – 40.

Karaba Glass Art

Shop glass flowers, and other playful critters handblown by Karaba Glass Art . The vibrant jewel tones of Market artist Gina Karaba’s style are a beautiful, eye-catching display. They make great tabletop décor and office desk accessories! Pick up a flower paperweight for $50, or browse her other adorable creatures.

Stop by the Craft Market to find Lid Wear’s signature rain & shine hats – handmade and great for keeping mom stylish and dry! Waterproof, breathable, adjustable, and fade-resistant. Great for protecting both from the sun and wet Pacific Northwest days. Prices range $55 – 65.

Maggie’s Shoes

Surprise mom with a pair of comfortable new sneakers from Maggie’s Shoes . Enjoy a special offer of 20% off sale on all shoes! Owner Maggie Tsang works with Italian and German shoe designers for the best in style and comfort, so you’re sure to find the finest quality products throughout the store.

Market Magic Shop

For more gifts to inspire family game night, stop by the DownUnder and head to the Market Magic Shop for the largest selection of decorative playing cards to add into your gift baskets for mom.

Nature’s Twist

Pick up a matching jewelry set to share with mom from Nature’s Twist , like this special carved flower moonstone pendant duo. Enjoy a free pair of post earrings with any purchase of $150 or more as an added bonus! Pendant necklaces range from $135 – 165 each.

Pattern & Posy

Hand block-printed floral towels from Pattern & Posy are a great gift for any home chef. Her latest designs weave in lovely floral elements for the kitchen. All of her patterns are created by hand to develop the block prints that decorate her elegant and functional linen products.

Pike Place Pigs

Shop adorable piglet planters from Pike Place Pigs . Pair it with a little plant to give mom something special to put on her desk or countertops. Priced at $41 each.

WithTheRain

Shop signature SLUGS fleece boot liners from WithTheRain in the Craft Market, perfect for the gardener mom in your life! Priced at $30 per pair.

Events + Experiences

Take a Mother’s Day art class at Brooke Westlund Studio & Gallery

Head to Brooke Westlund Studio & Gallery on Western Avenue for a fun evening making your own art with mom! Sign up for their Mother’s Day mixed-media art class on Tuesday, May 14, or gift a date for this summer with classes in June, July, and August. Classes are $65 per person. Sign up here!

Catch a performance at Can Can Culinary Cabaret

Take mom out for a night on the town to catch Can Can’s latest production, “Noir” . Depart from the confines of normalcy and escape into psychedelic nocturnal revelry. NOIR is a risqué revue featuring Can Can’s most mischievous provocateurs in a night of indulgent dining paired with world-class entertainment. This show is 21+, and tickets start at $65. Moms can enjoy a free glass of bubbles with purchase of any entree on Mother’s Day! Reserve yours here .

Learn how to make truffles at indi chocolate

Learn about the process of crafting chocolate from bean to bar, then make your own truffles at the Market’s chocolate factory! This class at indi chocolate will guide guests to build these delectable treats by hand and experiment with flavor combinations. The best part: take everything you make home to share with friends and family! All of the chocolate used is 72% dark chocolate and truffles will be made without soy, dairy, or gluten.  They’ll also have a special selection of Mother’s Day baked goods for in-store pickup. This event will take place on May 14 from 6:30 – 7:45 p.m. Sign up here .

Browse the best bouquets at Flower Festival

Discover the best time of year to find the perfect bouquet for mom at the 16th Annual Flower Festival on May 11-12! Over 40 tents will line Pike Place with fresh flowers including tulips, irises, daffodils, and the season’s favorite: peonies! Enjoy live music performances and a special shopping offer all while finding the perfect bouquet for mom.

Share some laughs at Unexpected Productions

Mothers deserve much better entertainment than “yo’ momma” jokes. Treat your mom to a night of off-the-cuff comedy as the improvisational wizards of Unexpected Productions delve into the hilarious joys and horrors of parenthood at their special Mother’s Day show. Tickets are discounted to half price for moms, so if you haven’t bought her a present yet, reserve your spot for some quality time together and a night of fun at the Market! Use the discount code IMAMOM for $10 off. Get your tickets here .

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Come with me on my travels, as you plan yours

A Moscow Free Walking Tour of the Iconic Red Square

Updated March 10th, 2020

This post might contain affiliate links. That means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you, if you buy through my site. I appreciate your support of my site.

No visit to Moscow, Russia is complete unless you take a walk around the famous Red Square and see the iconic sights of the city. One of the best ways to see all the famous landmarks in Moscow and learn a little something about them too is on a free Moscow walking tour through the Red Square.

Continue reading for a sneak peek at what you will see on your free tour in Moscow and for tips on both the tour and visiting the sights. Make sure to save some time during your trip to go inside of the magnificent buildings because you will not be going in the buildings during the tour.

The State Historical Museum

The Moscow free walking tour begins at the Marshal Zhukov monument in front of the State Historical Museum . You can’t miss this massive red building. The museum’s interior is almost as spectacular as the artifacts you can see within. Read my post dedicated to the museum here to find out more on what you can see and tips for visiting. Admission is free with the Moscow City Pass .

The Kremlin

Behind the walls of the Kremlin lie the working offices of Russian’s government and president. When visiting the Kremlin you can see the Armory Chamber, Cathedral Square, the Patriach’s Palace and many more cathedrals. You definitely want to buy tickets ahead of time so you avoid the long-lines. You can get free admission with the Moscow City Pass . It’s also worth it to take a guided tour if you don’t speak Russian so you have more of an understanding of what you are seeing.

St. Basil’s Cathedral

If asked to conquer up an image of Moscow, St. Basil’s Cathedral might just be the most likely image you picture. The cathedral has a museum that you can visit at a later time. You can buy tickets at the ticket kiosk outside the cathedral or receive free admission with the Moscow City Pass .

Moskva River

Next up on the tour is the Moskva River which runs through the center of Moscow. A cruise on the Moskva River is a great way to see the city from a different perspective.

GUM Shopping Mall

Who would think a mall would be one of Moscow’s most well-known attractions? GUM shopping mall across from the Kremlin makes up one of the four sides of the Red Square. The stores might be a bit too pricey for shopping, but the gorgeous interior is worth a visit. If that doesn’t convince you, the mall has some of the best ice cream! GUM is the only building you go inside during the free walking tour. There are pay bathrooms you can use while you have a few minutes of free time.

Kazan Cathedral

Located on the northeast corner of the Red Square, the Kazan Cathedral is another impressive dome-shaped building in Moscow that is also an active place of worship. Entering the cathedral is allowed, but remember to be respectful if people are worshipping.

Bolshoi Theater

Contrary to the previous buildings, the Bolshoi Theater isn’t along one of the four sides of the Red Square. Located a few minutes away, the theater is one of the best theaters in the world. Make sure to come back for a guided tour of the inside or make reservations far ahead of time to attend a ballet or opera.

Alexander Gardens

The tour ends near the Alexander Gardens , a free public park located along the western Kremlin walls. The garden’s green lawns, sculptures and water fountains offer a nice place to take a stroll or relax a bit after some busy sightseeing.

You can visit all these sites on your own, but the best part of doing the Moscow free tour is that you learn more information and have the potential to meet new people!

During my tour I started to talk to a woman from Malaysia and she invited me to join her and her friends for a Russian meal afterwards. It’s these little impromptu meetings and opportunities that I love most about traveling and add more to the sightseeing experience. While I was a little hesitant about going to the tour myself I told myself it would be a great opportunity to possibly meet new people. I love when things work out like that!

If you have already seen the iconic sights of the Red Square and are looking for other things to do in Moscow check out my What to Do in Moscow post that gives more off-the beaten track things to do in Moscow!

Moscow Free Walking Tour Visiting Information

Moscow Free Walking Tours

How to Get There

The Moscow Free Walking Tour begins at the Marshal Zhukov monument in front of the State Historical Museum (a large red building). The website shows a map with the exact meeting point.

To get to the red square area you can take the blue 3 metro line to the Ploshchad Revolyutsii stop, or the green 2 line to the Teatralnaya station or the red 1 line to the Okhotny Ryad station. For more on how to use the metro read my Moscow Metro Guide .

Tours every day at 10:30am – 1pm in English

If you need a toilet before the start of the tour the Okhotny Ryad and GUM shopping malls are both close to the start of the tour. You will need to pay to use the toilets. There is a quick break mid-way through the tour at the GUM shopping mall where you can use the toilet if needed.

During the mid-way break in the tour you can buy some ice cream at the GUM shopping mall. There aren’t many other options or time for anything else. After the tour there are a lot of restaurants in the area. There are a couple of Varenichnaya №1 locations nearby if you would like some authentic Russian food. Their speciality is Russian dumplings. Another classic choice nearby is Grand Cafe Dr. Jhivago. While you can try traditional Russian foods like borscht and Olivier Salad, you may need a reservation. GUM has several restaurants, including a couple of buffets upstairs.

Recommendations

While I would start off your visit to Moscow with a tour of the Red Square, make sure to come back to each place to tour the inside. If you are visiting several sights consider buying the Moscow City Pass  to save money on admissions.

Other Tour Options

Another company  Moscow Free Tour  does a similar free walking tour in the Red Square. Check the site for the details on the starting point and times. If you prefer a private paid tour with a hotel pick-up and a visit to St. Basil’s Cathedral included check out this tour . For a private paid tour with a hotel pick-up and a visit to the Kremlin included you may want to take this tour or this one . Even if you don’t typically take tours, I would recommend taking tours as much as possible in Moscow. Many people do not speak English and most information is not in English either.

Where to Stay in Moscow

Find somewhere to stay in Moscow near the Red Square so you are convenient to all the sights!

More About Russia

• Moscow Things to Do:  Unique Things to Do ,   Spartak Stadium
• Moscow Markets:  Izmailovsky Market ,   Danilovsky Market
• Moscow Museums:  Moscow City Museum ,  Victory Museum ,  Museum of the Patriotic War in 1812 ,  State Historical Museum ,
• Moscow Life:  Malls ,  Christmas in Moscow ,  Metro ,  Learning Spanish ,  My Russian Apartment ,   What is Life Really Like in Russia ,  FiFa World Cup ,  Russian Winters , and more posts about  life abroad in Russia .
• St Petersburg:  City Guide ,  The Hermitage Museum ,  Kayaking the Rivers & Canals ,   Peterhof Palace

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A great experience.

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22 comments.

The Kremlin looks rather imposing. It would be great to explore the history in Moscow.

There is a lot of history in Moscow to explore!

What a handy guide to get the most of Moscow’s red square! I’ve always wanted to try a walking tour and this looks like the perfect place to start!

I really enjoy walking tours, I think they are a great way to get to know a new place!

You have highlighted all the main sights around and in the Red Square indeed! I have visited Moscow in winter and the atmosphere was magical…even though it was cold 🙂 I’m looking forward to visiting in summer too!

Yes, there is a magical feel during the winter. I have to say I prefer the warmer, brighter summers though 🙂

Follow My Anchor

I am planning to go to Moscow and St. Petersburg this year so reading this was very helpful. I would love to do the walking tour! What time of year did you do it? I am planning to go in August as I really can’t stand the cold 😀 Do you think August might be a good time to visit Moscow? Thank you so much for your information!

I did the walking tour in September. July and August are the best times to visit Moscow in my opinion, so you are going at a great time! I lived in Moscow for a year so I have a lot of posts about Moscow and a couple for St. Petersburg too. Please check out my other posts as you are planning your trip and feel free to send any questions my way!

I’m a huge fan of taking free walking tours whenever my husband and I travel. We learn more about the history from the local’s perspective. Your walking tour in Moscow looks fun. The St. Basil’s Cathedral is beautiful and would love to see it. Thanks for sharing the must-see places in Moscow!

I’m a big fan of free walking tours too! I completely agree that you get a good perspective and introduction to the history of the city.

I would love to take the walking tour to get a good coverage of the area! The tip about paying for the bathrooms is great. That’s something I didn’t realize when I went to Europe for the first time from the US.

I always find it annoying paying for bathrooms in Europe!

I visited Moscow in June this year for the World Cup and I loved it. St. Basil’s Cathedral was the highlight for me, it’s such an impressive piece of architecture. I would’ve liked to visit more of Russia but maybe next time!

I really enjoyed Moscow during the World Cup too. The city was much livelier than usual!

I have been to St. Petersburg but never to Moscow. I think that these kind of tours are very useful to gather many information but I second your suggestion to visit the palaces inside as they have stunning interior decor and art treasures.

Yes, I think both going on tours and getting an overview and touring the inside of places are good to do.

Shreya Saha

St. Basil’s cathedral is definitely a beautiful place to visit. I would also love to stroll by the Alexander gardens and maybe spend some time in the shopping mall call mom maybe visit the theater, also I would love to visit Kremlin and the State Historical Museum. That’s a great list you have managed to provide here.

Never been to Russia, but the country’s history and culture has always fascinated me. Great list of things to do in Moscow’s Red Square. Kremlin is definitely on top of my list!

Russia does have a fascinating history and culture!

The architecture here always looks so beautiful. I would love to go to Russia. Some helpful tips here that would really help me navigate a future trip. I love the Russian ballet so a trip to the theater would be a must for me.

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

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Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

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Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

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It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

Alya and Campbell

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