travel extra seat

More elbow room in the sky: How to buy a second seat for yourself on US airlines

Editor's Note

In case you missed it, Southwest Airlines ' "customer of size and extra seat" policy came to the forefront at the end of 2023 after a self-described plus-size travel influencer applauded the carrier's policy allowing passengers to request an extra seat for free.

Southwest is among the major carriers that have long allowed travelers to purchase a second adjacent seat on their planes for " passengers of size " requiring additional room.

However, most airlines, excluding Southwest ironically, provide the option for all passengers requesting more space to book a second seat for the sole purpose of doing so.

Regardless of the reason, whether it be a performer with a large musical instrument or a passenger who just wants more space even though they could safely fit into one assigned seat, here's how each extra-seat policy varies by carrier.

Alaska Airlines

All Alaska Airlines passengers can purchase an additional seat, called a comfort seat , via phone. Standard ticketing fees are waived for comfort seats, and Alaska recommends purchasing it at the same time you book your first seat, but you can do so anytime before departure.

Note that you can use a companion fare voucher (such as the one available with the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card ) or your Alaska Airlines MileagePlan miles to pay for the second seat. Just know that to use a companion fare certificate, you must book the second seat on the same reservation as the first.

If you spend cash to purchase the comfort seat, you are eligible to earn redeemable miles on that seat, though not elite-status credit. To request this credit, contact Alaska's Customer Care Center once travel is complete.

Lastly, if you are purchasing the comfort seat as a "passenger of size" and all of your flights departed with an unsold seat, you're eligible for a refund for the second seat if you contact Alaska after your flights.

Standard checked baggage charges and waivers apply for each purchased seat.

Read more: Alaska Airlines' 'comfort seat' policy

American Airlines

American Airlines permits customers wanting additional space to book a second seat.

To book two seats on American, customers must call reservations directly and purchase a second seat at the same fare and in the same fare class as the first seat. You can redeem AAdvantage miles for the second seat if you redeem miles for both seats in the same fare class. However, you cannot earn miles on the additional seat purchase even if you pay cash. Additionally, if you desire a second seat, you must book it for the full itinerary — not just one segment.

Read more: American Airlines' policy on 'extra space during travel'

Delta Air Lines

Like American and Alaska, Delta Air Lines requires passengers to call their reservations line to book an extra seat for any reason.

Although you can redeem Delta SkyMiles for the second seat, the program prohibits earning miles on "tickets purchased to carry excess baggage such as musical instruments and pets or to provide extra space for the primary passenger."

Since Delta Basic Economy tickets don't come with advance seat assignments, you'll want to avoid that type of fare if you are booking two adjacent seats to have some extra space.

Read more: Delta Air Lines' Additional Assistance page

Frontier Airlines

Low-cost carrier Frontier Airlines advises customers who are "unable to lower both armrests and/or who compromise any portion of adjacent seat or aisle" to book two seats prior to travel. Passengers can inquire about doing so online via the airline's chat system, which has replaced their customer service phone line .

Read more: Frontier Airlines' 'extra seat space' policy

Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines offers guests the opportunity to book extra seats online at the time of booking but notes that these seats are not guaranteed to be adjacent.

To guarantee seats next to one another, purchase an extra seat in the main cabin (excluding basic economy tickets) through the reservations team.

You can use HawaiianMiles to purchase an additional seat, along with the Hawaiian Airlines World Elite Mastercard eCertificate — valid for travel between North America and Hawaii only. Note that the eCertificate can only be used on paid bookings, not award bookings. If you purchase the second seat with cash, it is eligible to earn redeemable miles.

Read more: Hawaiian Airlines' Guests Needing Additional Room page

JetBlue permits you to purchase an extra seat and complete the transaction online.

The process with JetBlue is pretty easy — simply select two adults (or however many you need) for the flights you want, and when it asks for the second adult's information, you don't provide additional names. Instead, you click the option that reads, "This is an extra seat for traveler one." It's that simple. In our tests to attempt to use JetBlue points for both tickets, the transaction failed, so it doesn't seem you can do that — at least not online.

Read more: Booking extra seats on JetBlue

Southwest Airlines

Southwest famously doesn't offer advanced seating assignments , so it is always possible that you won't have someone sitting down in the middle seat next to you as long as the flight isn't full.

Unfortunately, unlike the other carriers on this list, the Southwest policy "does not allow the purchase of more than one seat for use by a single passenger for the sole purpose of ensuring additional personal space," per an airline spokesperson. (So, no designating yourself as your own companion on that Companion Pass .)

However, if you are purchasing a second seat because you need it as a passenger of size or similar reason, as mentioned earlier, you can do so online or can request it for free at the airport ahead of your flight. Travelers who purchase the seats in advance can request a refund for the extra seat after the flight.

To purchase a second seat online, select one additional adult if you desire one additional seat. Under "who's flying," you'll put your name for the first passenger and then "XS" as the middle name for the second ticket.

If you are purchasing a pricier Business Select or Anytime Fare for the first seat, you can purchase the second seat at the discounted Child's Fare by phone.

Read more: Southwest's 'customer of size and extra seat' policy

Spirit Airlines

The rules for low-cost carrier Spirit Airlines are pretty simple and straightforward if you want a second seat. The line lets you purchase an extra seat by using your name for both tickets and selecting the desired seat assignments. This is allowed whether you need the extra seat for yourself, want some breathing room or for any other reason.

You can use your Spirit miles for the additional seat, but you won't earn miles on its purchase.

Read more: Spirit Airlines' page on purchasing an extra seat

United Airlines

United allows you to purchase a second seat for extra personal space via phone, and you can redeem United MileagePlus miles for the additional seat while earning miles on the additional seat if you decide to pay cash. Note that the miles are redeemable and not elite qualifying miles .

The miles earned for the extra ticket should appear in the Airline Activity section of your MileagePlus account with the description "Extra Seat Credit." United permits a doubled checked baggage allowance if you purchase an extra seat, though it will also charge you a double change fee if your plans change.

While this is likely true for all airlines, note that the United website spells out that you must be an active participant in preserving your extra seat and, if necessary, you can ask a crew member for assistance.

Read more: United Airlines' policy on extra seats

Bottom line

We all hope for an empty middle seat when we board the plane. When the boarding doors close and that middle remains empty, it feels a little like winning the seatmate lottery.

However, if you don't want to rely on luck, know that most major U.S. airlines make it possible to book a second seat to ensure you're not sharing that armrest with a stranger.

Related reading:

• Southwest in the news for its generous 'customer of size and extra seat' policy — here's how it works
• How to snag the best seats on Southwest Airlines
• Plus-size flying: Tips for a more comfortable flight from a 'passenger of size'
• Best travel credit cards

Updated as of 4/18/2024.

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Booking Extra Seats

How to book extra seats on jetblue.

• When doing a flight search, include the number of empty seats you would like in the number of travelers. (For example, if you’re traveling solo and want the seat next to you blocked, select 2 Adults. If you’re traveling with a child, select 2 Adults and 1 Child.)
• Select your flights from the search results. All seats—including the extra seats—must be booked in the same fare option. 
• Continue to the traveler details page, and enter the details for Traveler 1 and any other travelers. Select the checkbox for ‘This is an empty seat for’ for all remaining ‘Travelers.’
• Once you check that box, you’ll see a dropdown menu to indicate which traveler would be next to the empty seat, as well as a checkbox to indicate if that seat is for a musical instrument.
• Continue to seat selection, and choose your seats, including the extra seats, from the seat map for each flight on your itinerary. For the purpose of physical distancing, you may select extra seats next to you, in front of you &/or behind you. 

Booking a coast-to-coast or Caribbean route?

On flights that offer Mint, Rows 2 and 4 have physical distancing built right in, with fully enclosed suites and a sliding door for extra privacy.

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Airline Passenger of Size Policies: Will You Be Forced to Buy an Extra Seat?

Ed Hewitt started traveling with his family at the age of 10 and has since visited dozens of countries on six continents. He wrote for IndependentTraveler.com for more than 20 years, producing hundreds of columns on travel and offering his expertise on radio and television. He is now a regular contributor to SmarterTravel.

An avid surfer and rower, Ed has written about and photographed rowing competitions around the world, including the last five Olympic Games.

He's passing his love of travel on to the next generation; his 10-year-old son has flown some 200,000 miles already.

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As airlines continue to cram more and more people into each plane, the flying experience gets less comfortable for all passengers, especially passengers of a heavier weight. But is there a point where seat sizes restrict someone’s ability to fly? Most carriers now have some sort of policy in place to ensure that all passengers have adequate room for both comfort and safety, but policies differ in degree and detail.

Most airlines recommend that if you think you will be too large for your seat, you should purchase a second seat at the time you make your original booking (or, of course, buy a ticket in first or business class). Some airlines will offer a discount on the second seat or refund the cost if the plane isn’t full, but in many cases larger passengers simply have to pay twice the price as other flyers.

Are Airline Passenger Weight Policies Fair?

Airline seating policies surrounding passenger weight bring up some sensitive issues. Who decides if someone fits in the seat, and when do they decide? Is the decision left up to a flight attendant after the entire plane has boarded? Is it somebody at the gate? At check-in? Will there someday be a BMI (Body Mass Index) field on booking sites? Might we eventually have to sit in a test seat, much like the metal cages that measure the size of your carry-on bag?

Over the years, some of these questions have moved out of the realm of the rhetorical—though there have been very few cases where the airlines’ policies have been tested or disputed in public (not surprisingly, due to the very sensitive nature of the issue). Most overweight travelers have simply taken the abuse, or made their case without going too public.

On a broader level, is it fair or logical for the airlines to keep shrinking airplane seats while requiring those left behind to, oftentimes literally, pay the price? This makes things awkward for everyone—including the large passengers themselves. (See the moving essay What it’s like to be that fat person sitting next to you on the plane .)

There is a simple solution, of course: wider seats on planes. In the same way that airlines offer “economy plus” sections with more legroom, they could have rows that have fewer and wider seats. (There’s always the option of business class in this case, but airlines could do the same thing in economy class, just without the free booze, dedicated loo, and big upcharges.)

The airlines argue it would be too costly to retrofit planes to include larger seats—so for now, the traveling public is stuck with the status quo. Below is a run-down of seating policies regarding passenger weight on several major airlines in the U.S. and abroad.

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Alaska Airlines’ Customers of Size Policy

Alaska Airlines requires the purchase of a second seat for any passenger who can’t “comfortably fit within one seat with the armrests in the down position.” If you purchase a second seat in advance, and your flights all take off with at least one seat available, you can get a refund for the cost of the second seat. For those who haven’t purchased a second seat in advance, you may do so the day of your flight; if two seats aren’t available together, you might need to take a later flight.

Allegiant’s Passenger of Size Policy

Allegiant recommends that passengers who are unable to lower their armrest purchase a second ticket at the time of booking. If the passenger waits until the day of travel to request a second seat, “the agent will be unable to sell a second ticket unless two seats are available side-by-side,” says the airline website. If an extra seat is unavailable, the passenger will not be able to fly.

American Airlines’ Extra Space Policy

American requires passengers to purchase a second seat if they need a seatbelt extension and “extra space outside a single seat to travel safely.” The airline recommends that you buy both seats during your original booking (at the same rate). If you don’t book two seats in advance, you will be responsible for any fare difference on a second seat purchased the day of your flight or a larger seat in a higher class. If the airline can’t accommodate you on your scheduled flight, the airline will let you purchase two seats on a later flight for the same price as your original seats.

Delta Airlines’ Extra Seat Space Policy

Delta does not require larger passengers to purchase an extra seat, even if a seatbelt extender is required. However, the website notes that “if a passenger impedes on another passenger, they may be asked to move to another location that provides additional space, or in the event of a full flight, be asked to take a later flight with available seating.” and therefore recommends passengers who require extra space to purchase a second seat at the time of booking.

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Frontier’s Customer of Size Policy

Frontier requires that customers who are unable to lower both armrests purchase a second seat “prior to travel.”

Hawaiian Airlines’ Policy for Guests Needing Additional Room

Hawaiian recommends that flyers who can’t sit comfortably with both armrests lowered call in advance to reserve a second seat. If you don’t do this, the airline “will try to find a suitable alternative,” but if this isn’t possible, you may not be able to fly on your originally scheduled flight.

JetBlue’s Extra Seating Policy

I was unable to find an official policy on JetBlue’s website, however JetBlue has a process in place for booking a second seat for any reason, found here . JetBlue seats are between 17.8 and 18.4 inches.

Southwest Airlines’ Customer of Size Policy

Southwest encourages larger passengers to purchase an extra seat in advance to guarantee that sufficient space will be available on their flight; the airline promises to refund all extra seat purchases, even if the flight is oversold. Passengers can also wait until the day of their flight to speak with a customer service person at the gate, who will give them a complimentary additional seat if it’s available.

Spirit Airlines’ Extra Seat Policy

Spirit requires that any passenger who “encroaches on an adjacent seat area and/or is unable to sit in a single seat with the armrests lowered” purchase an additional seat. Travelers who need a seatbelt extension are not eligible to sit in a seat with an inflatable seatbelt.

United Airlines’ Extra Seating Policy

If you can’t buckle your seatbelt (with an extension if necessary) and fit into a seat with the armrests down—without encroaching “significantly” on the adjacent space—you must purchase an additional seat or pay for an upgrade to a roomier seat on United . The carrier recommends buying two seats at the time of booking, at which time you’ll pay the same fare for the second seat; if you wait until the day of travel, you’ll pay the fare available that day. If no additional seats or upgrades are available, you’ll have to rebook on the next flight with availability. (United will, however, waive the change fees.)

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Airline Passenger of Size Policies Outside the U.S.

There are too many airlines around the world to enumerate every single policy, but below is a sampling.

Under the One Person One Fare program in Canada, “carriers may not charge more than one fare for persons with disabilities who…require additional seating for themselves, including those determined to be functionally disabled by obesity.” This applies to domestic service within Canada. For flights to destinations outside of Canada, you might have to purchase an additional seat.

In Europe, Air France offers a 25 percent discount on your second seat if purchased in advance, with a full refund if there are unoccupied seats on your flight. If your flight is full, you haven’t booked an additional seat, and you can’t fit comfortably into a single seat, you may not be permitted to board. Meanwhile, British Airways requires passengers to be able to fully lower both armrests; if you can’t fit into the seat under these conditions, you must purchase an extra seat.

In the Southern Hemisphere, Qantas and LATAM suggests travelers needing extra space book an extra seat. Qantas encourages passengers to book both seats at once, as an extra seat cannot be added to an existing booking and will need to be booked separately. LATAM notes that “Passengers that due to their size must out of necessity occupy the immediately adjacent seat, can only travel in Economy in order to use this service” due to the configuration of the armrests in their other cabins.

Looking for a carrier not listed above? Airline seating policies are often difficult to find on carriers’ websites. Sometimes you can pull them up by searching “extra seat” or “customer of size,” but the best strategy is to call the customer service number—if you need to purchase an extra seat, you’ll likely end up calling the airline anyway.

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What is your policy for Customers of size?

Customers who encroach upon any part of the neighboring seat(s) may proactively purchase the needed number of seats prior to travel to ensure the additional seat(s) is available. The armrest is considered to be the definitive boundary between seats; the width of the narrowest and widest passenger seats (in inches) is available on our Flying Southwest page . The purchase of additional seats serves as a notification of a special seating need and allows us to adequately plan for the number of occupied seats onboard . It also helps us ensure we can accommodate all Customers on the flight for which they purchased a ticket and avoid asking Customers to relinquish their seats for an unplanned accommodation. Most importantly, it ensures that all Customers onboard have access to safe and comfortable seating. You may contact us for a refund of the cost of additional seating after travel. If you prefer not to purchase an additional seat in advance , you have the option of purchasing just one seat and then discussing your seating needs with the Customer Service Agent at the departure gate. If it’s determined that a second (or third) seat is needed, you’ll be accommodated with a complimentary additional seat.

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Everything you need to know about economy plus seating on united airlines.

The exclusive cabin is available throughout United's fleet.

• United Airlines offers Economy Plus with extra legroom and comfortable seating options, offering a decent product between business and economy.
• Passengers can upgrade to Economy Plus at any time, from booking to check-in.
• Flying in Economy Plus provides more legroom, priority boarding, and preferred seating options for a relaxed journey.

When it comes to long-haul travel, passengers aim to find the right balance between ticket cost and comfort. While most passengers may opt for the Economy cabin, many people aim to spend a little more on a comfortable journey. One of the world's largest airlines, United, is well aware of that need and offers a premium travel option for passengers.

United Airlines fills the extensive gap between its Polaris business class and economy class by offering United Economy Plus. This article explores the ins and outs of the Economy Plus seating on one of three big US airlines.

What is it?

• Extra legroom and a seat in front of the Economy sections with Economy Plus
• Economy Plus is available on all United flights and most United Express flights.
• Passengers can upgrade to an Economy Plus seat at any time from booking to check-in.

Economy Plus on United Airlines is a class that gives passengers a more comfortable and luxurious experience than a traditional economy class without the exorbitant price of business class seats. Economy Plus is an excellent option for travelers looking for a higher level of comfort but do not want all of the features of a full business-class seat.

The economy plus cabin debuted on United in 1999 and is now offered on all mainline aircraft and almost all United Express regional jets. These seats feature extra legroom and an increased pitch compared to standard economy class seats. This gives travelers more room to stretch their legs and relax during a flight, thus creating a more comfortable journey.

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United Airlines' Economy Plus Seats: 5 Fast Facts

Benefits of the cabin.

• MileagePlus® Premier® members can book available Economy Plus seats for free. Non-members can join the MileagePlus at no cost and earn points for flight benefits.

Premier Silver

Free access to Economy Plus at check-in for the passenger and one companion.

Premier Gold

Free access to Economy Plus at booking for the passenger and one companion.

Premier Platinum and Premier 1K

Free access to Economy Plus at booking for the passenger and up to eight companions.

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One advantage of flying in economy plus is the additional legroom. Seats in United's standard economy class have 31 inches of legroom and a width of 17.3 inches. Meanwhile, United's Economy Plus seats also feature 17.3 inches of width but have 37 inches of legroom, meaning six extra inches.

These seats are located in the front of the United Airlines economy cabin and offer greater recline than seats in standard economy class. Furthermore, the cabin is specifically designed with passenger comfort in mind, creating a quieter and more peaceful environment during the flight.

Another draw of Economy Plus is priority boarding, which is included with a ticket in the cabin. Passengers traveling in economy plus will board in one of the first groups , allowing them to find space to store their carry-on luggage in the overhead bins and get settled in their seats before most passengers.On top of that, passengers will have the ability to choose preferred seating options. This means when booking their ticket, they can choose a seat that meets their preferences, such as window or aisle seats, seats with extra recline, or seats located closer to the front of the cabin for faster deplaning.

As with most carriers, when flying economy plus, passengers will earn more frequent flyer miles on United Airlines' MileagePlus program as it is placed in a higher fare bucket compared to basic or standard economy. These miles can be redeemed for future upgrades to higher cabin classes or for future flights. This is coupled with economy-plus passengers' increased flexibility when making flight changes.

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Economy Plus tickets include more passenger-friendly change and refund policies, giving travelers peace of mind when making last-minute changes. Passengers can earn Premier Qualifying Points (PQP) on Economy Plus seats and subscriptions. According to United Airlines ,

"You can earn 1 point for each U.S. dollar spent (excluding taxes and fees), or 1 point for every 100 MileagePlus miles redeemed after you complete your trip. PQP are credited to the account of the member who travels, not the person who bought the seat."

Why fly Economy Plus?

Whether United Economy Plus is the right choice depends solely on your priorities and preferences. It is probably the right choice if you are looking for more space, priority boarding, increased flexibility, and a generally more relaxed environment.

Is Economy Plus Seating On United Airlines Worth It?

With that said, if you are seeking a true first-class experience, you should consider United's First Class service on domestic flights or the North American carrier's flagship product, Polaris Business Class , on long-haul international flights. Economy Plus is a compelling solution for passengers who want an upgraded travel experience without paying for first or business class.

What are your thoughts on the United Economy Plus offering? Have you traveled with United in its Economy Plus cabin? Share your experience in the comments section.

United Airlines

UponArriving

Extra Seats on Southwest Airlines: What You Need to Know (Booking & Refunds)

Are you thinking about buying an extra seat on Southwest Airlines?

Perhaps you are a customer of size who needs extra space or you have some other type of need that could require an additional seat.

In this article, we will show you exactly how you go about booking an extra seat and explain some key things you need to know about (like how to get a refund).

Table of Contents

How to purchase an extra seat on Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines allows you to book an extra seat online. If you choose to do this online, there is a specific way to add the extra seat to your reservation.

Basically, you will go through the normal booking process but you will select the number of passengers based on however many extra seats you need.

So if you were traveling with one other person and you need one extra seat, you would choose three passengers.

Then comes the most important step: inputting your name.

For your actual ticket, you would input your name as you normally do. So if your name is John Smith then for your first name you put “John” and for your last time you put “Smith.” Simple stuff.

But for your extra ticket, you will need to make a slight alteration to your name and the alteration depends on whether or not you have input a middle name.

If you do NOT input a middle name for your main ticket, then for the extra passenger you will input XS for the middle name like this:

“John XS Smith” (first name: John, middle name: XS, and last name: Smith). 

If you DO input a middle name for your main ticket, then for the extra passenger you will input XS after the middle name like this:

“John Robert XS Smith” (first name: John, middle name: Robert XS, and last name: Smith). 

You can also call reservations and make your booking online. Try to add the extra seat at the same time as your booking so that you can end up paying the lowest price.

And finally, you can also book your extra seat whenever you arrive at the airport. You could do this at the check-in counter or at the gate.

The plus side of doing this is that you don’t have to pay anything. But the problem with doing this is that the flight could be full so there may not be extra seats.

But, here’s the deal….

Even if the flight is full Southwest has a reputation for doing what they can to keep the customer of size on board. For example, if the flight was oversold Southwest will try to get a volunteer to give up their seat so that the customer of size will have a seat.

If no volunteer comes forward then it’s possible that Southwest could involuntarily deny boarding to a passenger (probably the last person to check in).

This will probably be a very rare outcome but something to be aware of

How much will the extra seat cost on Southwest Airlines?

The cost of your extra seat or seats will be whatever the cost of that current ticket is for your specific route.

If you are purchasing the original seat at the time of booking, then you can expect to pay the same price as your actual ticket. You can also use Rapid Rewards for the extra ticket.

Also, if you purchase a Business Select fare , you can purchase an extra seat as a Wanna Get Away fare so you don’t have to pay for the expensive fair twice (you probably want to call in to do this).

The major thing to know with Southwest is that they will refund you for your extra seat purchase.

In an attempt to be extra customer friendly, Southwest Airlines has decided that people that need extra seats should not have to pay extra for those seats, so they offer this refund policy.

How do you get the refund for the extra seat?

To get a refund for your extra seat you can email or call Southwest.

You can find the email information here .

Or, if you would like to call here’s the phone number: 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792). 

Will you be required to get an extra seat?

So you might be wondering when would you be expected or required to get an extra seat when flying Southwest.

Southwest makes it pretty clear when you will need an extra seat when they state that , “If you’re unable to lower both armrests and/or encroach upon any portion of a seat next to you, you need a second seat.” 

For Southwest, the “armrest is the definitive gauge for a Customer of size.”

So the first test is can you sit in a seat with the armrests down?

Unlike other airlines, Southwest does not mention that you have to keep the armrest down the entire flight. So in theory, if you can at least put the armrest all the way down then you should be okay for this.

The other question is whether or not you are encroaching upon “any portion” of the seat next to you. So if any portion of your body is occupying space next to you, you are technically required to purchase another seat.

Usually, this would mean taking up space beyond the armrest.

But just keep in mind that airplane etiquette dictates that the middle seat passenger gets both armrests. So if a middle seat passenger cannot utilize the armrest because your body is taking up that space, that’s going to be an issue for some people.

What if I need a seatbelt extension?

If you need a seatbelt extension in order to properly use the seatbelt, that does not mean that you are required to get an extra seat.

So why would I purchase an extra seat if it’s free and I could do it at the gate?

The biggest reason for purchasing your extra seat in advance is to allow Southwest to get a sense of how many passengers (or seats) will be needed on the plane.

This will help them to avoid overselling the flight and having to ask people to give up their seat and move to another flight.

This can also prevent you from having to work the stuff out at the airport or deal with agents at the gate which can make your life easier. So it is strongly recommended that you purchase an extra seat in advance to make things easier for everybody.

You can do the normal check-in process online to secure your boarding position but when purchasing an extra seat Southwest states that “you must see a Customer Service Agent to receive the required documents and be eligible for a refund after the flight.”

In other words, you need to see an agent to get your boarding pass and your “seat reserved” document.

Presumably, an agent would also make sure that you appear to be a customer of size.

While this seems like it could get tricky, I’m assuming an agent could deny you the extra seat if you were a petite person looking to take advantage of an extra seat without a valid reason.

Some airlines will offer double the baggage if you purchase an extra seat but Southwest is not one of those airlines.

If you have an extra seat boarding document then you can take advantage of preboarding . This will allow you to board the plane before the standard Southwest boarding process .

Typically, preboarding is designed for people who need assistance or extra time to board (those with mobility problems) but in the case of an extra seat, it can make it easier for a customer of size to find a seat with an open seat next to it.

If you need a seatbelt extension then you can request that when you get on the plane (remember, you cannot use your own seatbelt extension) and preboarding can make that a little bit easier.

If you use preboarding, you will be able to select any seats available on the plane except for emergency row exit seats which are typically off-limits to people who use preboarding.

Emergency exit row seats may also be off-limits if you have mobility issues so keep that in mind.

Customers of size sometimes prefer to sit in the very back of the plane because they find it easier to deal with potential passengers trying to poach their seat. If you’re seated in the back near a flight attendant, that crewmember may be more likely to help keep people from taking your extra seat.

Window seats can also be a great option because you can utilize the extra room along the window and the fuselage.

After you check in, you should have a “Seat Reserved” document that you can place on your seat during boarding but these are small documents that look similar to a boarding pass so they don’t stand out.

Flight attendants also have larger “do not occupy” placards that are harder to miss. So feel free to request one of those from a flight attendant to make it easier for passengers to tell that your extra seat is reserved.

Can you purchase an extra seat simply for extra comfort?

Unlike some other airlines, Southwest does not allow you to purchase an additional seat just because you want extra space.

Instead, extra seats are reserved for oversize customers and people who have other special needs such as traveling with certain pets.

You can find a relevant language in the contract of carriage where it states:

Purchase of more than one seat for use by a single Passenger for the sole purpose of seeking additional personal space is prohibited, except in limited circumstances when the Carrier, in its discretion, permits it.

This is kind of a let down because having an extra seat can be beneficial for a lot of people, even if they are not customers of size.

However, I understand how allowing passengers to purchase extra seats could make the Southwest boarding process more difficult to sort out.

Southwest is very friendly to customers of size.

First, they allow you to book online and to receive a refund for the extra seat or seats that you need. They will even bump people off flights if you failed to you book your extra seat in advance (which is why you always want to book it in advance). And finally, you can also get preboarding which will allow you to select from a wide variety of seats.

Daniel Gillaspia is the Founder of UponArriving.com and the credit card app, WalletFlo . He is a former attorney turned travel expert covering destinations along with TSA, airline, and hotel policies. Since 2014, his content has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, and CNBC. Read my bio .

Interesting article. I am 100% disabled through the VA/Military. For me, riding in a wheelchair, is too painful for my back. I walk slower, and use a cane because I have poor control at times of the right leg. I have had a challenge on occasion from some gate agents because I don’t use the wheelchair however. A few times I have been told to wait until A has boarded. This puts me further back on the plane, and an issue if I have to use the facilities. What do you suggest?

I’m not an expert, but I’m relatively young (aka I “look healthy”) and have a number of health issues that rise to the legal definition of a disability (check the ADA’s definition of you’re still a citizen of the USA to see if this applies to you as well). I travel fairly frequently, with an additional carry-on bag filled with my necessary medical accoutrements (I bring 3 bags into the plane’s cabin, not 2). I let the airline know in advance that I’m chronically I’ll and traveling with medical supplies, and they indicate on my ticket that I need to preboard.

Perhaps if you let them know in advance you’re struggling with medical issues (you could even reach out in advance and schedule a TSA Cares agent to help you through security) then you could ensure that preboarding was marked on your boarding pass, and you (and one companion if you desire) would have extra time to get on the plane and get situated. Good luck!

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For all fare classes except Basic Economy, you’ll be able to pick your seat or change your seat assignment. If you have a Basic Economy ticket, you’re able to purchase a seat assignment during booking and up until check-in opens. Learn more about Basic Economy restrictions.

You can choose a seat or change your seat assignment for most United- and United Express®-operated flights on united.com , on the United app or through your travel agent. If no seat assignments are available, you can check back closer to departure to see whether seats have become available. Learn more about seating options .

Seat assignments, no matter the fare class you purchase, aren’t guaranteed and could change without notice because of schedule changes, equipment swaps or other unforeseen circumstances.

We’ll always try to assign you the same or similar seat type and location and keep you with your traveling companions when you’re booked in the same reservation, unless you’ve purchased a Basic Economy ticket without purchasing advance seat assignments. We know that your seat assignment is important, so we’ll do our best to keep your original seat preference.

We may briefly hold some seats for operational reasons, and don’t allow seat selection or changes for Basic Economy tickets. If you’re unable to choose a seat, we’ll assign you one at check-in or at the departure gate.

All customers with Basic Economy tickets, including United MileagePlus® Premier® members, are eligible to purchase Economy Plus seating at check-in only.

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Your airfare includes a seat, but the airline wants you to pay more | Cruising Altitude

I am old enough to remember a time when you could pick your seat for free on every flight on just about every airline. That’s because those pesky fees we have now are relatively new. They started to gain traction among full-service carriers in the mid-to-late 2000s, and by 2018, the big three U.S. carriers were all charging them on at least some tickets.

There was a time when there were no Byzantine ticket structures where some fares included seat selection, and others barred you from choosing your location on the plane in advance, or at least from doing so at no cost.

But nowadays it’s different.

Low-cost airlines like Spirit and Frontier, of course, charge extra for just about everything, but even the legacy carriers, American, Delta and United, have fare classes in economy class now that don’t include seat selection. Some charge extra depending on the seat’s location, even if you’ve paid for a ticket that includes selection.

British Airways takes things a step that is ridiculously far: charging business class passengers a fee on top of their ticket price to select their flatbed seats. For example, on a round-trip itinerary departing from New York on Feb. 22 and returning from London on March 6, it costs about $130 per person each way to choose a seat in business, on top of the $3,300 for the round-trip ticket. Keep in mind that pricing is also dynamic and will rise or drop depending on timing and the exact location of the seat, with seats in the center of the plane closer to the lower-class dividers costing less.

I’m afraid these fees are becoming a staple with airlines.

“These fees are beginning to rival what they collect for baggage at many carriers,” Jay Sorensen, president at the airline consulting firm IdeaWorksCompany, told me. “The rapid embrace of assigned seating fees by all airlines has been a surprise to me. The extent to which they have been such powerful generators of revenue has been a surprise to me as well.”

Of course, there are ways to avoid paying the fees, from flying an airline that doesn’t charge them or buying a ticket that includes seat selection to having frequent-flyer status that gives you free seats as a perk. 

Keep in mind that these fees are technically optional. If you buy a ticket, you’ll have a seat on your flight. In many cases, you just won’t have the option of choosing where that seat is without shelling out extra. Airlines will assign you an unclaimed seat when you check in if you haven’t paid to pick one in advance.

Here’s what to know:

How common are seat selection fees?

Most airlines charge seat selection fees one way or another, Sorensen said, whether it’s by selling lower-fare tickets that don’t include seat preferences or simply by making passengers pay for their seats individually. Even Southwest Airlines, which famously does not assign seats, has its ways of generating seating revenue.

“One could say, well, Southwest doesn’t have these fees, but Southwest does have an early boarding fee,” Sorensen said. “If you want to get a better seat, you’re going to have to pay a priority-boarding fee.” 

If you’ve flown in the past few years, you’ve probably seen at least some of the ways airlines squeeze extra revenue out of their seats. The Wall Street Journal recently reported that economy seat selection fees were as high as $100 on some flights.

How can I avoid paying for a seat on an airplane?

Although the fees have become common across the industry, not every passenger on every flight pays them outright. For example, as a frequent flyer with Delta Air Lines, I have complimentary access to preferred seats in the main cabin – those closer to the front of the plane that other passengers would need to pay extra to select during booking.

Sorensen said free seat selection for preferred or extra legroom seats is a valuable, if somewhat frustrating, perk for frequent flyers, especially now that upgrades are getting harder to come by.

For more casual travelers, however, avoiding seat selection fees can be difficult. Even if you don’t pay them directly, you may be compelled to buy a more expensive ticket that will let your entire travel group stick together on board. If you’re already paying extra, you may also be tempted to buy a higher-fare class, which can provide perks like more legroom or a nicer seat, though, of course, at a steeper price.

What happens if I don’t pay for seat selection?

As I mentioned before, you don’t have to pay to select a seat, but you’re much more likely to wind up stuck between two strangers at the back of the plane if you don’t. 

Are airline seat selection fees legal?

The Biden administration has taken a hard look at ancillary airline revenue, and Congress is considering legislation to crack down on airline seating fees.

President Joe Biden urged Congress in March 2023 to introduce legislation that would bar airlines at least from charging fees for families with children who want to sit together, and some airlines have already voluntarily implemented such policies.

The Department of Transportation has a dashboard that outlines these policies by airline.

For now, however, airline seat fees remain unrestricted and hard to avoid.

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected]

Southwest Praised for Giving Free Extra Seats: How U.S. Airlines Handle Plus-Sized Passengers

“Hi, I’m hoping to use your customer-of-size policy today,” a woman says to a Southwest Airlines gate agent before being handed a complimentary second ticket for the adjacent seat on the flight she was boarding, in a now-viral TikTok video . The post, which has racked up more than 900,000 views since it was first shared in October, has sparked strong, mixed reactions about the ways in which plus-sized travelers are—or aren’t—accommodated in the air.

Some have praised Southwest’s approach as “ amazing ,” while others have criticized the airline for “ rewarding obesity .”

Southwest’s customer-of-size policy isn’t new, but the renewed attention brought to it in recent weeks reflects the increasing relevance of airlines’ plus-sized-passenger rules—especially as Americans on average continue to grow larger, while airplane seats have allegedly become smaller.

Since the 1960s, the number of obese people in the U.S. aged 20 and above has increased from just 10% of the population to some 42% by 2020, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . Meanwhile, advocates claim that airplane seat widths have decreased by as much as 3 inches over the last three decades.

Read More: More Than Half of the World Will Be Obese By 2035

Often, the onus of figuring out how to manage the incongruity is put on customers, whose options are limited and often result in frustration for both the passenger whose seat is too small as well as their neighbors who may feel encroached upon.

Jae’lynn Chaney, a plus-sized traveler and influencer, launched a petition earlier this year asking the Federal Aviation Administration to require all airlines to implement a clear and comprehensive customer-of-size policy.

For now, most airlines simply recommend requesting a seatbelt extender, purchasing an additional seat, or upgrading to a higher fare class that offers more personal space.

Tigress Osborn, executive director of the National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance, told CNBC in August that plus-sized people also often face calls to simply avoid air travel, which she describes as unreasonable.

“Fat people deserve to travel for pleasure just like everyone else, and we also need to remember that air travel is for work, for family obligations, and for other responsibilities, too,” she said. “Our taxes help support this industry, and we deserve to be accommodated safely and comfortably, with access to accessible seating at all price levels.”

Here is the current guidance U.S. airlines offer for passengers who exceed size restrictions:

Alaska Airlines

According to its website , Alaska Airlines requires the purchase of an additional seat for any customer “who cannot comfortably seat with the armrests in the down position.” The width between Alaska Airlines’ armrests is 17 inches for economy seating and 21 inches for first class.

Alaska recommends booking the extra seat ahead of time. “If a second seat has not been purchased, you’ll be asked to purchase an additional seat before boarding the aircraft,” it says.

If the flight departed with an open seat available, the passenger is eligible to request a refund for their second seat.

Allegiant Air

With a seat width of 17.8 inches, passengers who either are unable to lower the armrests or compromise any portion of adjacent seats “should purchase an additional ticket” during reservation, Allegiant Air’s website says. Two adjacent seats will then be pre-assigned—at no additional cost. If an extra seat was not pre-booked, on the date of travel, a “passenger of size” may only be able to purchase a second ticket if two adjacent seats are still available. “In the event the flight is sold out and an extra seat is unavailable, the passenger of size shall be denied travel in the interest of safety.”

American Airlines

“If a customer needs extra space outside a single seat to travel safely, another seat is required,” American Airlines’ website says. Like other airlines, it recommends reserving the extra seat during the initial booking.

“If you didn’t book an extra seat in advance,” the guidance says, “you may be offered a seat in a higher class of service that may provide more space; in this case, you’ll be responsible for the fare difference. If accommodations can’t be made on your original flight, you can buy seats on a different flight at the same price as your original seats.”

Delta Airlines

Delta Airlines’ economy seats are 17.2 inches in width and have 31-32 inches of legroom. Seatbelt extenders can be provided upon request in-flight, but personal seatbelt extenders are barred.

“For customers who need extra space,” Delta says on its website , “you can ask to be reseated next to an empty seat or pay to upgrade to First/Business class. To ensure your comfort, you might consider booking an additional seat.”

Frontier Airlines

Frontier Airlines’ website simply says that passengers unable to lower the armrests should book two seats prior to travel. “The armrest is considered to be the definitive boundary between seats,” it says. 

Hawaiian Airlines

Most seats on Hawaiian Airlines’ airplanes are 18 inches wide, according to its website , which breaks down the seat size on the various aircraft it operates. 

“If you are unable to sit comfortably in your seat with the armrests lowered, we will try to find a suitable alternative,” guidelines on Hawaiian Airlines’ website say, recommending booking an extra seat in advance and calling their hotlines to ensure the seats are adjacent. “However, if no safe alternative seating can be found, we may not be able to transport you on your ticketed flight.”

JetBlue does not appear to have any specific policy for plus-sized passengers and did not respond to a request for comment from TIME. Flyers can purchase extra seats for themselves, and passengers can request seatbelt extenders in-flight, according to the website Portly Passengers , which is one of several sites that offer travel tips for plus-sized passengers.

Southwest Airlines

According to Southwest’s website , customers who encroach upon any part of the neighboring seat, as demarcated by the armrests, “may proactively purchase the needed number of seats prior to travel” to ensure availability. “The purchase of additional seats serves as a notification of a special seating need and allows us to adequately plan for the number of occupied seats onboard,” the policy states, emphasizing that the airline will “refund all extra seat purchases for a Customer of size, even if the flight oversells.”

“If you prefer not to purchase an additional seat in advance, you have the option of purchasing just one seat and then discussing your seating needs with the Customer Service Agent at the departure gate. If it’s determined that a second (or third) seat is needed, you’ll be accommodated with a complimentary additional seat.”

Spirit Airlines

Spirit Airlines says on its website that “a guest of size who encroaches on an adjacent seat area and/or is unable to sit in a single seat with the armrests lowered” is required to purchase an extra seat.

United Airlines

According to United’s website , if a passenger cannot buckle their seatbelt, takes up space in adjacent seats, or cannot keep their armrests lowered while they are seated, they must buy an extra seat.

“If an extra seat isn’t available, you’ll need to change your flight to one that has extra seats. If you’re not in your home city, state, or country, and your new flight requires you to stay overnight,” the guidance also stipulates, “we can give you meal and hotel vouchers as well.”

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Extra Seat - Personal Comfort   

Passengers may wish to purchase an ‘Extra Seat’ for personal comfort during travel. Travel agents may use the following information as a guideline for purchasing an extra seat for comfort on Delta-marketed, Delta-operated flights.   For all other itineraries and for additional information regarding purchasing an Extra Seat, travel agents should contact Global Sales Support or Delta Reservations for assistance.

General Information

Delta does not require a passenger who needs a seatbelt extender or is unable to lower the armrest to purchase an additional seat. However, please be aware that if a passenger impedes on another passenger, they may be asked to move to another location that provides additional space, or in the event of a full flight, be asked to take a later flight with available seating.

To avoid this situation and for the passenger's personal comfort, Delta recommends that passengers purchase an additional seat.

Please Note: Delta has the right to charge for all seats occupied.

Making a New Reservation to include an Extra Seat for Personal Comfort

To make a reservation for an extra seat to accommodate a customer’s personal comfort:

• Create the new Passenger Name Record (PNR) using the passenger’s last name and EXST as the first name for the extra seat.
• Enter Passenger Type Codes (PTC) to match the number of seats requested. For the passenger’s seat use ADT and for the additional seat(s) use OTS or whatever PTC the GDS requires.
• Add the SFPD information for the extra seat (Gender and Date of Birth (DOB) should match that of the passenger.
• Assign seats next to each other.
• IN CONJ W/TKT SMITH/EXST (PASSENGER’S LAST NAME/”EXST” AS FIRST NAME)  
• IN CONJ W/TKT SMITH/JOSEPH (PASSENGER’S LAST/FIRST NAME)  
• SSR EXST DL SMITH/JOSEPH

Please note: GDS entries for the PTC and SSR fields may vary. Please contact your GDS Help Desk if you need assistance. For all other questions please contact  Global Sales Support or Delta Reservations  for assistance.

Additional Information

Basic Economy Fares

Basic Economy fares may not be used to purchase an extra seat ticket because a seat assignment is required and Basic Economy fares do not allow an advanced seat assignment.

Itinerary Changes

If applicable, the Administrative Service Charge (ASC) for an itinerary change is only paid on the passenger's ticket, not the extra seat ticket.

Wholly Unused Ticket

For wholly unused, nonrefundable tickets, the value of the extra seat ticket may only be used for a new ticket in the passenger's name. The extra seat ticket is not transferable.

Carry-on baggage is ONLY permitted for the passenger and NOT the extra seat. When a passenger purchases an extra seat, they are entitled to checked baggage allowances/restrictions for each ticket/seat.

Seat Assignments

Whenever possible, assign adjacent seats that are only two abreast, unless there is another passenger traveling.

Please note: Do not assign seats in the exit row. Emergency exit row seats do not have moveable armrests and seat belt extensions are not permitted in the exit row.

If you need assistance assigning two seats together, please contact Global Sales Support or Delta Reservations. 

Complimentary Upgrades

If a Medallion member would like to be waitlisted for a Complimentary Medallion Upgrade, the PNR will need to be divided. Please contact Global Sales Support or Delta Reservations for assistance.

Please advise the Medallion member that there are no refunds for the extra seat if using a nonrefundable fare, if the complimentary upgrade clears .

SkyMiles Awards SkyMiles awards may be redeemed for the extra seat.

SkyMiles Credit

SkyMiles credit is not automatically tracked for the purchase of an extra seat and must be requested by the SkyMiles member after travel. For additional information, please contact Delta Sales Support or Delta Reservations  for assistance.

Joint Venture (JV) Partner Policies

When making a reservation for an Extra Seat, please note that PNRs with a mixture of DL operated and AM, AF, KL, KE, LA or VS operated flights are not permitted.

For assistance with reservations for an Extra Seat that include carriers other than Delta, please contact Global Sales Support or  Delta Reservations  for assistance.

For partner information, visit the respective partner airlines’ website:

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American Airlines seat selection fee

How to select seats on american airlines flights, how to avoid paying american airlines seat selection fees, when can you get a refund of american airlines seat selection fees, final thoughts on american airlines seat selection.

Seat selection is complimentary for many seats on most American Airlines tickets. However, as you can tell by that convoluted sentence, American Airlines seat selection isn't free for all passengers.

So, how much does American Airlines charge for seat selection? We’ll answer this question and explain how you can avoid paying an American Airlines seat selection fee.

» Learn more: The best airline credit cards right now

The cost to select a seat on American Airlines ranges from free — for standard seats except when booking basic economy fares — to over $160 for an extra-legroom seat on a long-haul international flight.

American Airlines seat selection fees vary based on several factors — including the flight length and what type of seat you want. Window and aisle seats are generally the most expensive. Meanwhile, a middle seat in between two preferred seats might not cost anything.

» Learn more: The complete guide to American Airlines partners

American Airlines travelers can select seats during the flight booking process or after purchasing a flight. If you're just starting a flight search, we recommend logging into your AAdvantage account first. That way your information will be auto-filled, and you'll be able to maximize any frequent flyer perks you have. More about that below.

Say you want to travel from Denver to London. First, you'll need to select your flights. During the search process, you can preview available seats by selecting the "seats" link in the search results. This can give you an idea of the number of available seats for your group. However, the price for selecting seats won't be listed yet.

After selecting your flights, reviewing fare upgrade options, entering your information and declining the option to buy miles, you'll finally be able to select seats for your flight.

If you booked a basic economy fare , you'll have to pay for a seat selection no matter the type of seat. In the example below, prices to choose a seat range from $9-$24 depending on which one you select.

If you booked a standard economy fare, you can select any standard seat for free. Or you can pay for preferred and extra-legroom seats — in this example, the cost ranges from $10-$22 for a preferred or Main Cabin Extra seat.

You won't be able to select seats on flights operated by partner airlines — even if the flight has an American Airlines flight number. Instead, you'll have to complete the booking to get the partner confirmation number (also referred to as a PNR or record locator). Then, you can contact that airline for seat assignment.

If you booked an American Airlines flight through another airline, you’ll need your American Airlines confirmation number. Once you have this, head to the American Airlines homepage and click the "manage trips/check-in" tab.

Enter your last name and the confirmation number to find your trip. Then, you'll see your seat selection options.

The most reliable way to avoid paying a seat selection fee is to have elite status through American Airlines or through an eligible partner airline, such as Alaska Airlines or British Airways . Additionally, you can redeem AAdvantage miles to pay seat selection fees.

Preferred Seating

All tiers of AAdvantage elite status get complimentary access to preferred seating — standard-legroom seating in preferred areas of the cabin — from the time of booking. Similarly, elite members of oneworld Alliance partner airlines get complimentary access to preferred seating on American Airlines, even at the lowest Ruby tier.

Main Cabin Extra

In addition to extra legroom, Main Cabin Extra seats also grant travelers early boarding and complimentary snacks and drinks — including beer, wine and spirits.

AAdvantage Platinum, Platinum Pro and Executive Platinum elites get complimentary access to Main Cabin Extra seats from the time of booking. Gold elites can select Main Cabin Extra seats free of charge within 24 hours of departure.

Similarly, Alaska MVP Gold, Gold 75k and Gold 100k elite members can select Main Cabin Extra seats from the time of booking. Alaska MVP members must wait until 24 hours before departure to select Main Cabin Extra seats for free. However, basic economy fares aren't eligible for this benefit.

» Learn more: The guide to American Airlines elite status

Using AAdvantage miles

If you can't use elite status to avoid American Airlines seat selection fees, you may be able to redeem AAdvantage miles to pay for them. Like the cash cost, the mileage cost depends on factors such as the length of the flight and the location of the seat in the cabin.

The redemption rate for seat selection fees is typically about 1 cent per mile. That's not a great rate. NerdWallet values American Airlines miles at 1.7 cents each. Still, this could be an appealing redemption option if your mileage balance is too low to redeem miles for flights.

You'll need to have enough AAdvantage miles in your account to cover the entire cost of the seat selection fees. Otherwise, you'll either need to select a seat that costs fewer miles or buy more miles. Travelers don't have the ability to buy a single seat with a combination of miles and cash.

» Learn more: Easiest ways redeem American Airlines miles

Upgrading to a Main Plus ticket

Travelers who pay for a Main Plus ticket get complimentary access to preferred and Main Cabin Extra seats. This option isn't free. However, the extra cost may be worth it to get an extra checked bag, preferred boarding and complimentary seat selection.

American Airlines seat selection fees are generally nonrefundable. However, you can get a refund of your seat selection fees in a few specific situations.

For example, American Airlines will refund your seat selection fees if you opt to upgrade to business or first class, pay more for another seat on the same flight, cancel your flight within 24 hours of booking (if you booked at least two days before departure) or cancel your flight and purchase seats on a rebooked flight.

You'll also get a refund when American Airlines cancels your flight — or if American delays your flight long enough to miss a connecting flight on which you purchased seats — and doesn't provide a comparable seat on the new flight.

American Airlines seats can generally be selected during booking or after booking your flight. However, you'll need to avoid basic economy fares to get free seat selection. And you'll only get free preferred or extra-legroom seat selection if you have elite status or use miles to pay the fee.

If you’re having trouble making your American Airlines seat selection, check to see if your flight is operated by a partner airline. If so, you'll need to retrieve the confirmation code for that airline and contact the airline to choose a seat.

(Top photo courtesy of American Airlines)

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60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

Morning Rundown: Pro-Palestinian campus protests escalate, WHO challenges what's known about how diseases are spread, and Trump back in court for hush money trial

Open seating no more? Southwest CEO says airline is weighing cabin changes

Southwest Airlines  is considering changes to its single-class, open-seating cabins to drive up revenue, CEO Bob Jordan told CNBC on Thursday, a shift that could be among the largest in the airline’s history.

“We’re looking into new initiatives, things like the way we seat and board our aircraft,” Jordan said in an interview after the carrier’s  disappointing first-quarter report.

Southwest’s all- Boeing  737 fleet has a single economy class cabin and no seating assignments, though it does offer earlier boarding for a fee so customers can snag their preferred seats. The airline has focused on keeping its product simple and user-friendly for years, aiming to keep its own costs and complexity to a minimum.

Meanwhile, rivals including  Delta  and  United  have touted high revenue growth for premium seating such as business class and  strong upsell rates .

Analysts have repeatedly asked Southwest about opportunities for premium seating or additional fees. (The airline doesn’t charge travelers for their first two checked bags.)

Most U.S. airlines charge travelers to choose many of its seats in advance, even those that don’t come with extra legroom. Eight U.S. carriers —  Alaska ,  Allegiant ,  American , Delta,  Frontier ,  JetBlue ,  Spirit  and United — together brought in $4.2 billion from seating fees in their domestic networks in 2022, according to Jay Sorensen, an airline ancillary revenue expert at IdeaWorksCompany.

Jordan said no decisions have been made on what kind of changes Southwest will ultimately make, but he said studies have yielded “interesting” results.

“Customer preferences do change over time,” Jordan said.

While details were scarce during Southwest’s earnings call, when asked whether Southwest would consider a separated cabin on its planes, Ryan Green, the carrier’s chief commercial officer said: “Curtains and things like that are a bit far afield from what Southwest Airlines is.”

Green added that the carrier is not considering charging for checked bags because “people choose Southwest Airlines because we don’t have bag fees.”

— CNBC’s  Phil LeBeau  contributed to this report.

More from CNBC:

• Honda to build $11 billion electric vehicle hub in Canada
• Comcast beats earnings estimates even as it sheds more broadband subscribers
• American Airlines swings to a loss, but tops estimates for Q2 forecast

Moscow Itinerary: How To Spend 3 Days In Moscow

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: March 2, 2023

Categories Trans Mongolian Express

Moscow is the capital of Russia and there are few cities in the world that have played such a significant part in history.

Home to the Kremlin, the Red Square, the colorful St. Basil's Cathedral, and many more famous landmarks, Moscow is a city like no other.

This Moscow itinerary will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in Moscow. From the best places to see in Moscow to how to get around, this post has got you covered.

Moscow itinerary

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

Moscow 3 day itinerary: map with highlights

Click here for the interactive map .

What to do in Moscow in 3 days

• Day 1: The Red Square, GUM Department Store, St. Basil's Cathedral, Lenin's Mausoleum, and the State Historical Museum.
• Day 2: The Kremlin, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, Gorky Park, and the Bolshoi Theatre.
• Day 3: Izmailovsky Market, Bunker 42, and Zaryadye Park.

Important things to know when planning a trip to Moscow

The best time to plan a trip to Moscow is April-May and September-October . During these months temperatures are (generally) quite comfortable, though even in April there can be a bit of snow! The summer months are hot, both in regard to temperature as well as activities in the city. While it's a nice time to visit, it's also the busiest time of the year to visit Moscow. Hotel prices reflect this as well and summer definitely isn't a great time for budget travelers to visit Moscow. Winter in Moscow is cold, and I mean seriously cold (-15°C isn't rare). However, if you can withstand the subzero temperatures and freezing winds, it can be a magical time to visit. A snow-covered St. Basil’s Cathedral is a sight you will never forget. Keep in mind that days are short in winter and be sure to bring plenty of warm winter clothes!

The official currency in Russia is the Russian Ruble (₽ or RUB). Here you can find the current exchange rates, at the time of writing €1 is approximately 70RUB and $1 is around 62RUB.

Yes, you probably do. Getting a visa for Russia requires a bit of time and effort. You need to fill out several forms and provide a detailed travel itinerary and information about your accommodation. Also, you will need a Visa Support Letter which can be provided by your travel agency or your hotel. Depending on your nationality, there may be additional requirements, please refer to the information provided on the website of your country's Embassy in Russia.

While most of the things to see in Moscow listed in this post are within walking distance of each other, sometimes you will have to travel a bit further afield. The best way to get around in Moscow is by metro. It's cheap and efficient and a sightseeing activity in itself, because Moscow has the most beautiful metro stations in the world ! Among the most exquisitely decorated stations are Komsomolskaya, Novoslobodskaya, Mayakovskaya, Taganskaya, and Prospect Mira Station, but there are many more worthwhile stations to be found in the Moscow underground. You can purchase a single ticket from one of the ticket machines or get a rechargeable Troika Card when you plan on taking the metro several times. Read more details on how to use the Moscow metro here . If you prefer to get around by taxi, that's possible too. We used the Gett app to order a taxi (similar to Uber) to avoid confusion about our intended destination and having to negotiate in Russian. A convenient extra for families is the Gett Kids option, these cars are outfitted with a car seat.

The best things to do in Moscow

While you could easily spend a week in Moscow (or more), most of us, unfortunately, don't have that much time available.

This 3-day Moscow itinerary will guide you to the most popular and important places to visit in Moscow, as well as to some of the more unusual things to do in Moscow.

Below you can find the list of the Moscow sightseeing highlights included in this post.

The Red Square

Gum department store, st. basil's cathedral, lenin's mausoleum, the state historical museum, the kremlin, cathedral of christ the saviour.

• The Bolshoi Theatre

Izmailovsky Market

Zaryadye park.

Plan your trip like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals on Kiwi.com . ? Get the best car rental deal for your road trip on Rentalcars.com . ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours via Get Your Guide , Viator or Klook . ? Plan your journey with the  Lonely Planet . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Moscow itinerary day 1

There is no better place to start your first day in Moscow, than at the world-famous Red Square.

This square is considered the central square of Moscow, not just because all the major streets start here, but also because no matter where you look when standing on this square, there are historic buildings all around.

Starting with the impressive GUM store and going clockwise, there is the colorful Saint Basil's Cathedral, the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, the State Historical Museum, and the Kazan Cathedral.

However, before entering any of these Moscow must-see attractions, allow yourself a moment to take in the view and let it sink in that you're standing on historical grounds (and a UNESCO site).

The Red Square was the official address of the Soviet government and played an important part in history. Many military parades have been held (and are still being held) here. It's the place where protests have taken place, as well as high-profile concerts from famous international artists.

All in all, it's one of the places in Moscow you can't miss during your Moscow city trip!

Yulia from That's What She Had: it might seem like visiting a department store is not something you’d do on the first visit to Russia’s capital.

But GUM is not like any other department store and is well worth your time, if only for its unique architecture.

First of all, it’s located right on Red Square which makes it an easy stop on your Moscow trip itinerary. Second, GUM is not a simple mall, but an institution built in the late XIX century.

The abbreviation stands for  Glavniy Universalniy Magazin or Main Universal Store. Its impressive facade extends for over 240 meters along the eastern side of Red Square.

Inside you’ll find a beautiful glass ceiling supported by a metal framework, not unlike the ones found in the old train stations of Great Britain. 

While shopping in GUM will cost you an arm and a leg, there’s one reason why tourists and locals come here anyways:  traditional Russian food  at Stolovaya #57. Stolovaya is Russian for canteen and this is where you can get your  pelmeni , borsch , and  pirozhki  fix!

Afterward, don’t forget to get the famous  plombir  ice cream in one of the kiosks on the ground floor.

Saint Basil's Cathedral with its colorful domes is easily recognizable and one of the most popular Moscow tourist attractions. The building, built on orders from Ivan the Terrible, was completed in 1561 to commemorate the victory over Kazan and Astrakhan.

Until the construction of Ivan the Great Bell Tower (which can be found within the walls of the Kremlin), it was the tallest building in Moscow.

The design of St. Basil's Cathedral is truly unique; it's shaped like the flame of a bonfire and not one building in a similar style can be found in the whole of Russia.

A legend tells the story of how Ivan the Terrible had the architects of the Cathedral blinded so they could never build anything comparable.

This is a myth, however, but the fact remains that Saint Basil's Cathedral is one of a kind and it's not surprising it has become the symbol of Russia.

Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan: Lenin Mausoleum is hard to miss. It's a stepped-pyramid construction that sits right at the base of the Kremlin walls on the western side of Red Square.

Entrance is free but note that opening hours are quite limited, with visiting hours lasting only from 10 am to 1 pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

If seeing Lenin's embalmed body is important to you, be sure to take this into account when planning your itinerary in Moscow.

One of my  top tips for travelers to Russia  is to arrive early, well before the mausoleum opens, as the queue is usually quite long. However, usually, the queue does move pretty quickly.

This is especially true now that they have lifted the ban on bags and cameras.

It used to be that all cameras, smartphones, and bags of any size had to be checked at a left-luggage office nearby. But now you can bring a small handbag or backpack as well as your camera and phone.

Photography inside the mausoleum is still strictly forbidden, but you are allowed to take photos of the graves of various other important Russian figures that line the path leading to the mausoleum.

Once you finally enter the mausoleum, the atmosphere is surprisingly peaceful and uncrowded. It doesn't feel nearly as rushed as when visiting Mao Ze Dong's tomb in Beijing or Ho Chi Minh's body in Hanoi , for example.

The illumination of the body is very well done and would make for superb photography if it wasn't forbidden. As an added bonus, just after you exit, you'll see the grave of Joseph Stalin outside.

Rai from A Rai Of Light: the imposing crimson building at the northern end of the Red Square is the State Historical Museum.

By decree of Alexander III, the museum was built with the support of Russian historians, philosophers, and artists. The red brick building, dating from 1875, was designed in the Russian revival style by Vladimir Shervud.

The National Museum of Russia houses a collection of over four million items, devoted to the history of the country's ancient and imperial period.

The exhibitions include many items previously owned by members of the Romanov dynasty, such as documents, artwork, personal items, furnishings, and decorations from the palace interiors.

Another exhibit features relics of the prehistoric tribes that once inhabited this region.

Notable items include ancient manuscripts, birch-bark scrolls, a longboat excavated from the banks of the Volga River, and the largest coin collection in Russia, sourced from the museums in St Petersburg .

The State Historical Museum is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm. The entrance fee is 700₽ per adult.

Moscow itinerary day 2

When listing the best Moscow things to do, one cannot miss the Kremlin! The Kremlin houses the current seat of power in Russia and has done so for several decades.

Within its walls, the offices of the Russian Government can be found. During Soviet rule, the Kremlin was where all the important decisions were made but its history goes back for many centuries.

The first mention of the Kremlin in history books was in 1147, however, the current citadel dates from the 16th century.

The Kremlin is one of the major fortifications found in Europe, with walls that are up to 6.5 meters thick and 19 meters high in particular sections.

Inside the complex, there are many government buildings, however, these aren't accessible to the public.

Around Cathedral Square you'll find (as the name suggests) many churches and cathedrals, such as the Cathedral of the Archangel, Annunciation Cathedral, the Church of Laying Our Lady's Holy Robe, and Ivan the Great Bell-Tower.

While Cathedral Square is definitely worth visiting, the highlight of the Kremlin is a visit to the Armoury.

Inside you can find an impressive collection of Faberge eggs, beautiful dresses worn by Catherine the Great, intricately decorated thrones used by the Tsars, and much more. Unfortunately, photography is forbidden inside the Armoury.

Practical information about visiting the Kremlin

In order to visit both Cathedral Square and the Armoury, you will have to buy two separate tickets. A ticket to Cathedral Square costs 700₽ and a ticket to the Armoury is 1000₽. Prices mentioned are for adults, children below 16 years old are free.

Tickets can be bought at the ticket office onsite on the same day, however, there's no guarantee tickets will be available, especially during peak season.

Conveniently, tickets can be bought online as well, which is highly advisable if you want to make sure you'll be able to visit the Kremlin during your city trip to Moscow.

How much time to spend at the Kremlin

Be sure to allow plenty of time to explore the Kremlin, at least half a day but it's easy to spend more time as there is so much to see.

Please note there isn't any food sold inside the Kremlin, so bring a snack and enough water (especially in summer when it can get pretty hot).

Luggage storage

Backpacks aren't allowed inside the Kremlin, they can be stored (for free) in the cloakroom, but you can bring your camera and a small purse.

We could also take our Babyzen Yoyo stroller inside, which was very convenient as our 10-month-old son could take a nap while we explored the sights.

After the original Cathedral of Christ the Saviour was demolished by Stalin in 1931, a new version was completed in 2000.

The imposing building is the tallest Orthodox Christian church in the world (103 meters high), and is beautiful on the outside as well as on the inside.

Visiting the Cathedral is free of charge and it's open any day of the week from 10 am to 5 pm (except on Mondays when the opening hours are 1 to 5 pm).

When visiting the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour it's important to dress appropriately. For men, this means no shorts or tank tops.

Women can't enter with mini skirts or shorts, strap tops, or anything too revealing. Also, women are advised to cover their heads with a scarf as a sign of respect.

Inside the Cathedral photography isn't allowed, but believe me when I say there is plenty to see. There are beautiful frescoes, colorful icons, impressive statues, and other vivid decorations.

For a beautiful view over Moscow, walk up the stairs to the 40-meter high observation deck (entrance fee 400₽).  

Visit Gorky Park

Helen from Holidays from Hels : Gorky Park, named after the Soviet writer Maxim Gorky, has recently undergone extensive regeneration to become Moscow's central leisure hub for young Muscovites.

Every day of the week you can find many Moscow residents strolling along the banks of the river in the summer, hiring bikes, picnicking on the grass, or dining at one of the many restaurants.

Open-air cinemas, petanque, and ping pong are all on offer. Not to be missed is the iconic white stone entranceway and museum, complete with columns carved with Soviet hammers and sickles.

In winter, look out for the ducks waddling across the frozen Moskva River, and watch boats attempting to navigate through the cracked ice. However, the real winter highlight is to try ice skating on one of the biggest rinks in Europe!

Ice skating in Gorky Park

The park’s maze of pedestrian pathways is transformed into one huge skating rink, which can play host to up to four thousand skaters. 

Not surprisingly, Russians are talented ice skaters and there is a good chance you will find yourself next to a pirouetting ballerina.

Handily, you will find you will already be wearing most of what you need – gloves, hat, scarf, and thick socks and you can hire skates on-site. Lockers are included in the price if you don’t fancy skating with your day pack.

Disco tunes fill the air, and the whole arena is backlit in spectacular neon lights. Rest your weary legs and warm up at one of the cafes dotted along the frozen pathways, with the added bonus of not having to take off your skates.

Opening times

The rink is open from 10 am until 11 pm on weekdays and until midnight at weekends but closes between 3 and 5 pm. Like most attractions in Moscow, the rink is closed on Mondays. 

The prices range from 350-650₽ and go up in the evening, which is the best time for the light show. Arriving at 5 pm, just as the rink opens for the evening session will give you time to find your ice legs before it fills up with more confident skaters.

Whilst waiting for the rink to open, try out the nearby tubing track where you can shoot down a snowy hill on an inflatable ring repeatedly for a very enjoyable half an hour!

How to get to Gorky Park by metro

The nearest metro is Park Kultury Station, on the other side of the river. As always, check out in advance what this looks like in the Russian Alphabet so you know when to get off!

Bolshoi Theatre

James Ian at Travel Collecting : one of the best places to go in Moscow is the famous Bolshoi Theater, located only a short walk from Red square. Bolshoy means big in Russian, and the theatre is not only big but also beautiful.

There are two ways to see the theater: on a guided tour or by watching a performance .

Take a guided tour

• English tours are held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 11:30 am. Tickets for these tours can be bought (on the same day) at the ticket office located in the Historic building of the theatre (door #12).
• A ticket costs 2000₽ per person, tours last one hour, and the number of people on a tour is limited to a maximum of 20. The tour takes you inside the theater and to the historic main stage.

Watch a performance

My favorite way to see the theater, though, is to enjoy a performance and experience the theater as a patron.

The entrance is a little underwhelming when you first arrive, the street lobby is small and quite plain and you will be immediately directed up to your floor.

There are helpful attendants on each floor to guide you to the correct door. Arrive a little early and head up to the Grand Salon on the top floor where you can enjoy a glass of champagne while people-watching (Russians dress up for the theater).

Then head to your seat and take in the stunning theater before enjoying the famous Bolshoi Ballet or another performance.

Be sure to book a show at the historic stage, there is a modern stage as well but that isn't nearly as much fun.

Moscow itinerary day 3

Karen from WanderlustingK : one of the most interesting Moscow places to visit is the Izmailovsky Market .

This flea market and tourist attraction a bit outside of the tourist center is a recreation of a Tzar’s Palace, known as a Kremlin, produced in a colorful 16th-century style.

The market is filled with tiny stalls that sell everything from snacks to kitsch to authentic items from Soviet times such as hats, pins, and other pieces of memorabilia.

You'll also find authentic antiques such as vases, paintings, and other religious items if you're looking to splurge within the interior parts of the market.

Negotiating in English is not always possible as many vendors only speak Russian, so be sure to practice your Russian numbers and see how well you can do with haggling.

It's important to carry cash when you visit given that many vendors do not accept cards. We ended up purchasing a series of hats at the market, along with a beautiful hot tea glass with a metal holder with a typical Russian scene.

Elsewhere in the market, you’ll also find a few tourist shops that sell typical Russian products. It takes a few hours to see the market in full, so arrive early as the best items go quickly! 

Lindsey from Have Clothes, Will Travel : Bunker-42 was once a top-secret, Soviet military complex. Stalin commissioned its construction after the United States succeeded in creating a nuclear bomb.

An impressive 65 meters (or about 213 feet) underground, was the desired depth to protect Russia’s top officials from a nuclear attack.

Bunker 42 became operational in 1954. Fortunately, it was never needed for its true purpose, and instead it was used as the command center of strategic bombers for nearly 30 years.

Nowadays it's a museum dedicated to the Cold War and visiting is a truly unique experience!

You will need to join a tour in order to see the museum. You can call ahead to book your tour (the number is: +7 499 703-44-55), there are several English tours throughout the day that are held at 13:30, 16:30, and 18:30 (the price is 2200₽).

On Mondays, there is an extra tour at 17:30, which lasts an additional 30 minutes and costs 2800₽ per person. There is also the option to book a private tour. However, I am unsure of the price for this.

You will have to wait until exactly 15 minutes before your tour begins before you'll be admitted inside. After paying for your tickets and a quick restroom stop you will descend 65 meters underground…

Another option for visiting Bunker-42, if you would rather not do the tour, is to visit the restaurant inside Bunker-42. Actually, I highly recommend visiting the restaurant before or after a tour as well!

While the food is not that great, it’s worth visiting for a drink. The restaurant is also located within the bunker and is decorated in the old Soviet style.

From time to time there will be live performances and visiting Bunker 42 is definitely an experience worth having while in Moscow! After all, how many people can say they've had a drink in a top-secret Soviet military bunker?

If you’re visiting Moscow during peak season (June-July-August), it would be worth making a reservation, to avoid having to wait. Otherwise, I would not say you need to worry about a reservation at the restaurant.

Bunker-42 is a short cab ride away from Red Square (10-15 minutes). But I recommend taking the metro to get there. The closest station is Taganskaya, which is a beautiful metro station very much worth visiting.

Park Zaryad'ye or Zaryadye Park is a lovely place for a stroll and a nice place to relax after a day of sightseeing in Moscow, especially when exploring Moscow with kids.

There are many things to see and do in this park, but I recommend starting your visit at The River Overlook , a 70-meter-long boardwalk with beautiful views over the river and the Kremlin.

Other interesting places to visit in Zaryadye Park are the Ice Cave, The Museum of Nature, and The Glass Crust. But most importantly, do as the Muscovites do and find yourself a nice place in the park to sit down and relax.

Enjoy the view, do some people-watching, and take a moment to think back about all the Moscow top sights you've seen in the past couple of days.

Where to stay in Moscow

There is a huge amount of hotels in Moscow, ranging from budget hostels to exquisite 5-star hotels. Below you can find three well-reviewed Moscow hotels (rating of 8.5+ on Agoda and  Booking ).

3-star hotel in Moscow: MIRROS Hotel Mokhovaya

This 3-star hotel is one of the best budget Moscow hotels and is all about location! From the hotel, it's just a 10-minute walk to the Kremlin and only 600 meters to the Christ the Savior Cathedral.

Set in a historic 19th-century mansion, the hotel features classic rooms with ensuite bathrooms.

The staff is friendly and there is a metro station nearby (Borovitskaya), making it easy to get to the Moscow attractions a bit further afield.

Click here to book

Modern hotel in Moscow: Barin Residence Myasnitskaya

The Barin Residence Myasnitskaya is a newly built hotel, located about 1.2km from the Red Square (about a 15-20 minute walk).

The rooms and bathrooms are very modern and clean, the beds are comfortable and room service is available. This hotel is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a nice hotel without a hefty price tag.

Luxury hotel in Moscow: Hotel National Moscow

Hotel National is potentially the best Moscow hotel. It's a gorgeous 5-star hotel located just a stone's throw away from the Bolshoi Theater, the Red Square, and the Kremlin.

The building was designed by architect Alexander Ivanov and completed in 1903 and has been welcoming international travelers ever since.

With its imperial architecture, luxury design, and charming classic rooms (some with a view of the Kremlin!), the Hotel National is a unique property.

Furthermore, you can enjoy an indoor pool, sauna, and fitness center as well as the well-reviewed Beluga restaurant that serves both Russian and European dishes.

While this hotel doesn't come cheap, your stay at the Hotel National will make your trip to Moscow an unforgettable experience.

Moscow itinerary and travel guide: in conclusion

I hope this guide to Moscow will help you plan a trip to this interesting Russian city. Feel free to ask any questions you may have by leaving a comment or  sending me an email !

Below you can find my other posts about the Trans Mongolian Express , and the stops we made along the way:

• St. Petersburg itinerary
• Irkutsk and Lake Baikal itinerary
• Ulaanbaatar itinerary
• Trans-Mongolian Express travel guide

This post was updated in December 2020.

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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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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!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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Singapore Airlines to pay business class passenger £2,000 for ‘mental agony’ after seat fails to recline

Ravi gupta alleges he and his wife were treated as ‘economy class passengers’ except for extra legroom, article bookmarked.

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Singapore Airlines has been ordered to pay an Indian couple more than £2,040 (INR 213,585) for “ mental agony” after their business class seats failed to recline on a flight from India to Singapore.

Anjali and Ravi Gupta’s seats malfunctioned and did not recline, causing them to stay awake through their 4 hours and 50 minutes-long journey from Hyderabad to Singapore, India Today reported.

The couple had paid about £638 (INR 66,750) for each ticket from India to Australia, with a stopover in Singapore. This was about £460 (INR 48,750) more than the equivalent economy class ticket of £172 [INR 18,000].

The Guptas were reportedly offered 10,000 Kris Flyer miles per person for the inconvenience caused to them but they declined. Kris Flyer miles are the frequent flyer miles or loyalty points earned by members of the Singapore Airlines frequent flyer programme.

Mr Gupta is the director general of police in the southern Indian state of Telangana.

The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission in Hyderabad city in Telangana ruled in favour of the Guptas and ordered the airline to refund £460 (INR 48,750) to each complainant, totalling £931 (INR 97,500) along with 12 per cent interest from 23 May 2023 until realisation.

The airline was also instructed to pay £955 (INR 100,000) for causing the Guptas mental agony and physical suffering as well as £94 (INR 10,000) to cover the expenses related to the complaint.

Mr Gupta alleged in his complaint that he and his wife were treated as “economy class passengers” except for the extra legroom, according to Deccan Chronicle .

Singapore Airlines said it “acknowledges the decision of Hyderabad’s District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission”.

“SIA can confirm that while the automatic recline function on Mr and Mrs Gupta’s seats was faulty, the manual recline function was working on their flight from Hyderabad to Singapore,” a spokesperson told The Independent. “There were no issues on their connecting flight from Singapore to Perth.

“The flight duration from Hyderabad to Singapore is typically around four hours. As it was a full flight, SIA staff unfortunately could not reseat the customers elsewhere in the Business Class cabin. Our crew proactively checked in on these customers regularly and offered to manually recline the seat when needed. We apologise to Mr and Mrs Gupta for the inconvenience caused by this mechanical issue.”

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