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WorldTrips Travel Insurance Review 2024

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

WorldTrips has been a reputable travel insurance provider for more than 20 years. Unsurprisingly, it boasts an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and positive reviews from thousands of customers.

Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of the trip cost and trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable base plans that can be customized with add-ons including rental car, pet care, hunting and fishing, and vacation rental coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Insurance plans available for international student travelers
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip delay coverage benefit that kicks in after just five hours
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Pre-existing conditions waiver can be purchased within 21 days of initial trip payment
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Lower medical, evacuation and accidental death limits
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited, secondary baggage loss coverage although baggage protection can be upgraded at a low cost
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No special coverages for pets, sports equipment, etc.
• Travel medical insurance (Premium, Group, Annual, and International Student options)
• Trip cancellation insurance
• Trip protection insurance

WorldTrips Travel Insurance Review: Types of Policies Offered

WorldTrips offers several unique products for travelers, including a dedicated plan for students pursuing study abroad programs. This section will help you understand the different plans available through WorldTrips in either category.

Most plans include COVID-19 coverage by default. Many also allow you to customize the plan to include optional upgrades for additional protection.

Travel medical insurance plans

Atlas Travel

Flagship product Atlas Travel provides travel medical insurance for travelers of various nationalities - a valuable product for anyone seeking financial support while exploring the world. The maximum coverage available through an Atlas Travel plan goes up to $2 million.

It's worth noting Atlas Travel does not cover US citizens and residents. However, US citizens and residents can purchase travel insurance coverage for countries outside the United States under an Atlas International plan. In addition, non-US citizens outside of the United States are also eligible for coverage within the US under the Atlas America plan. The site automatically selects it for the traveler at the time of purchase.

Atlas Premium

Atlas Premium is an upgraded version of Atlas Travel offering more flexibility on deductibles, coverage duration, and coverage maximums. This plan is ideal for several types of travelers, including parents covering an entire family, travelers planning adventurous activities carrying some risk, and people planning luxury or expensive travel.

Atlas Group

Atlas Group offers Atlas Travel benefits at a 10% discount for people traveling in groups of five or more. This policy is ideal for traveler profiles such as youth groups, missionaries, students studying abroad, larger families, and organizations planning international travel.

Atlas MultiTrip

Digital nomads and frequent international travelers can benefit from an Atlas MultiTrip plan. It provides global health coverage for any number of pre-planned or last-minute trips within 364 days, as long as each trip lasts fewer than 30 or 45 days. The duration guidelines vary depending on the coverage selected.

StudentSecure

Students studying abroad can purchase StudentSecure, an international health insurance policy for full-time students and scholars pursuing academic studies outside their home country. StudentSecure comes in four levels of coverage to meet each student's specific needs and meets or exceeds most country or school insurance requirements.

Trip protection insurance plans

Atlas On-The-Go

Atlas On-The-Go covers you if you only need financial reassurance for your travel plans. This trip protection insurance is for US residents traveling worldwide. In addition, it provides medical coverage for unexpected sickness, injury, lost or stolen bags, or travel cancellations.

Atlas Journey

Atlas Journey offers trip protection coverage for US citizens and residents on domestic and international travel. You can choose from three tiers of coverage: Premier, Preferred, or Economy, with up to 150% of trip costs covered in the case of travel interruptions, as well as up to $1 million in medical evacuation expenses.

Additional Coverage Options (Riders)

Buyers can customize many WorldTrips policies to enhance the overall benefits of the insurance plan. Here are some of the available riders and purposes.

Cancel-for-any-reason (CFAR) coverage

Cancel-for-any-reason insurance coverage, often abbreviated as CFAR, is an optional upgrade. It allows you to claim a percentage of your nonrefundable travel costs if you cancel your trip for any reason.

CFAR is available as an add-on on specific WorldTrips policies and can cover either 50% or 75% of your total nonrefundable travel forfeited when you cancel. However, you'll have to purchase CFAR coverage within a specific time limit after your first payment for travel expenses. You must cancel your trip more than 48 hours before the scheduled departure to make an eligible CFAR claim.

Adventure activities coverage

WorldTrips offers additional coverage options for adventurous travelers pursuing risky or challenging activities. This add-on increases your medical and evacuation benefits in the event of an incident.

Pet care coverage

If you're traveling with a pet, this coverage will help cover some of the costs associated with pet travel, including medical expenses if needed.

Rental accommodations coverage

This add-on covers expenses you may incur if your accommodations are double-booked or untenantable.

Rental car coverage

If you rent a car during your travels, you can purchase this add-on to forego the coverage offered at the rental car desk. Note, if you hold a premium credit card with travel benefits, you may already have access to free rental car insurance meeting or exceeding any ceilings offered through WorldTrips, even with this upgrade.

School activities interruption/cancellation coverage

If a school schedule change impacts your travel plans, this add-on will reimburse you for nonrefundable travel expenses associated with the travel cancellation or interruption.

Hunting and fishing cancellation/interruption

This add-on will help defray your cost if changes to your local government restrictions or equipment delays impact your travel plans. Unfortunately, this policy does not cover big game hunting.

Destination wedding cancellation or interruption coverage

This policy add-on protects guests attending a destination wedding. If the couple cancels the wedding or the event is delayed or canceled due to other circumstances, this policy will help cover expenses incurred by the change in plans.

WorldTrip Travel Insurance Cost

Travel insurance coverage varies greatly, and the amount you pay reflects the range of protection . However, since travel insurance protects your financial investment, it's typically worth spending a few extra dollars for higher coverage maximums, especially for medical insurance and evacuation expenses.

Let's say you're planning a 10-day solo trip in Mexico over the winter holidays with a total cost of $6,000, including a cruise and some potential adventure excursions. Here's what a WorldTrips Atlas Journey insurance plan would cost and include. We have included three different tiers of coverage:

Many WorldTrips policies can be customized with optional add-ons enhancing the overall benefits of the insurance plan. We priced out a number of the available riders based on the hypothetical trip to Mexico and represented the cost of the add-on as a percentage of the estimated trip cost of $6,000.

How to File A Claim with WorldTrips

Unfortunately, the WorldTrips claim filing process leaves much to be desired. WorldTrips customers need to keep their travel insurance policy handy to know which claims process to follow.

You'll also need to have some other information on hand, such as whether or not a medical provider would bill WorldTrips directly on your behalf or if you have to pay out of pocket at the time of your service.

Atlas Travel, Atlas Premium, Atlas Group, Atlas MultiTrip, and StudentSecure travel medical insurance

If you hold a policy under one of the travel medical insurance products above, here's the step-by-step guide you'll reference when submitting a claim. You can submit your claim via email or regular mail using the following contact information:

Email: [email protected]

Mail: WorldTrips

Claims Department

Farmington Hills, MI 48333-2005

You can also submit your claim electronically through your customer portal: Client Zone for most policyholders and Student Zone for students.

Atlas Journey and Atlas On-The-Go trip protection insurance

If you have an Atlas Journey or Atlas On-The-Go plan, you'll reference the "submit a claim" section of this FAQ for the relevant forms you'll need to complete and the supporting documentation for your claim.

You can submit your claimant's statement and authorization form via your customer portal (Client Zone for most policyholders or Student Zone for students). Buyers can also use the WorldTrips Online service page and select "submitting a claim or an appeal" from the dropdown menu under the "contact us" header at the top of the page.

If you prefer to submit your claim through email or regular mail, the contact information is as follows:

If you can't access the required forms online, contact WorldTrips to have the documents faxed, emailed, or mailed.

If you're a student, you must submit additional documents for your claim proving you are a full-time student. Having the proper records can make your claim much less frustrating.

Deborah from California posted on Squaremouth, "When we returned home I called WORLD TRIPS and they said that I must file a claim with the airline first and then once that claim was adjudicated to file a claim with WORLD TRIP. I haven't gone back to read the policy terms but didn't think that this WORLD TRIP was secondary to other sources of recovery."

See how WorldTrips Travel Insurance stacks up against the competition. 

WorldTrips Travel Insurance vs. Nationwide Travel Insurance

WorldTrips compares favorably to Nationwide . While Nationwide is also a reputable insurance provider with great reviews, the company offers just two standard plans customizable with unique add-ons. Nationwide does offer some of the most affordable travel insurance rates with a large and recognizable company name behind it. However, unique add-ons like sports equipment and pet coverage are not available.

Thus, travelers seeking more customized travel protection may prefer the unique plans offered through WorldTrips, especially those looking for specialized coverage for destination weddings, group travel, study abroad programs, and more. On the other hand, travelers without special coverage needs looking for cheap travel insurance may want to stick with Nationwide.

Karen S posted about her trip to Turks & Caicos on insuremytrip.com, saying, "It was easy to find a plan with the coverage that I needed. My travel companion is my 92-year-old mother so it was imperative that I have the best coverage at a reasonable cost."

Nationwide Travel Insurance Review

WorldTrips Travel Insurance vs. Berkshire Hathaway Travel Insurance

WorldTrips and Berkshire Hathaway are well-known insurance companies in the travel protection industry, offering various plans to meet the needs of any traveler. If you're planning a particular trip with multiple variables, WorldTrips has more customizable options with different types of add-ons and upgrades. However, Berkshire Hathaway offers a significantly easier claim filing process through its proprietary app, which can help you submit photos and other evidence for your claim in just a few seconds.

Both companies have customer reviews suggesting coverage provides peace of mind. But claims filing gets mixed reviews.

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Insurance Review

Why You Should Trust Us: What Went into Our WorldTrips Travel Insurance Review

We evaluated WorldTrips against the best travel insurance companies by comparing the options offered, customizations available, coverage ceilings, and ease of filing a claim. A licensed insurance agent reviews our articles. Our rating system is available to read in-depth here .

WorldTrips Travel Insurance FAQs

WorldTrips offers excellent travel insurance plans for any traveler but is particularly beneficial for students studying abroad, travelers planning a group trip, or digital nomads looking for continuous medical coverage while abroad.

WorldTrips offers different options to file claims, including mail, online, etc. However, it requires extra paperwork compared to many other travel insurance providers. As a result, the process may be more complicated compared to competitors.

WorldTrips offers a study abroad travel insurance policy called StudentSecure, which covers medical expenses and emergencies while students are abroad.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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WorldTrips Travel Insurance Review — Is It Worth It?

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Who Can Get WorldTrips Travel Insurance?

Worldtrips atlas journey travel insurance coverage types and benefits, pre-existing conditions, covid-19 coverage, worldtrips travel insurance economy plan, worldtrips travel insurance preferred plan, worldtrips travel insurance premier plan, atlas on-the-go insurance, atlas journey plans, atlas travel plans, worldtrips travel insurance vs. competitors, worldtrips travel insurance vs. credit card insurance, tips for ensuring a smooth claim process, final thoughts.

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Planning trips is fun. Reading about travel insurance for them isn’t. But a little effort to plan for problems during your upcoming vacation can make a big difference.

WorldTrips provides multiple types of travel insurance, ranging from minimalist policies with just medical insurance to full-scale policies that cover anything that might go wrong during your next family vacation. The insurer also offers add-ons that most competitors lack, such as policies for students studying abroad, special provisions for hunting and fishing trips, veterinary emergencies, school activities that force you to delay your vacation, and even coverage for destination weddings when the bride or groom calls it off.

However, you may be surprised that rental car protections are only available as an add-on to WorldTrips plans, and you’ll need the most expensive plan if you want to add coverage for pre-existing medical conditions.

Here’s a look at the various travel insurance plans from WorldTrips and whether the costs are worth it.

Before understanding who can get a plan, it’s essential to understand the different types of travel insurance plans available from WorldTrips.

Atlas Travel plans are available for citizens and residents of numerous countries when traveling internationally. Conversely, Atlas Journey plans are available only to U.S. citizens and residents, covering domestic and international travel. Atlas Journey plans are geared primarily toward trip delay and cancellation benefits, while Atlas Travel plans are focused primarily on medical coverage. However, they share some crossover benefits.

WorldTrips also has travel insurance policies that aren’t focused on typical tourists. StudentSecure plans provide injury and illness coverage for those studying abroad. Atlas MultiTrip plans provide coverage for 364 days, covering trips up to 30 or 45 days each (depending on the plan you choose), and Atlas Group plans can provide up to a 10% discount if you’re traveling in a group of 5 or more people.

Additionally, WorldTrips Atlas Travel plans can provide medical coverage for those doing overseas volunteer or missionary work.

What Does WorldTrips Travel Insurance Include?

WorldTrips offers multiple types of travel insurance policies. Atlas Travel plans are available only for international trips (open to residents of many countries) and primarily focus on medical coverage. With these plans, you’ll choose your preferred deductible and maximum coverage limit, then provide your age and destination.

U.S.-based travelers have access to Atlas Journey plans. These cover domestic and international trips and are what you likely think of when considering travel insurance. We’ll analyze these in depth in the article and then cover the medical-focused Atlas Travel plans near the end.

To know what you’re looking for in a travel insurance policy, you should first understand what the types of coverage are:

• Trip Cancellation Insurance: Covers prepaid, non-refundable expenses when you cancel a trip for covered reasons like sickness, injury, or death of a family member.
• Trip Interruption: Reimburses prepaid, non-refundable expenses if you miss part of a trip or have to end a trip early due to covered reasons like weather, jury duty, or injury.
• Travel Delay: Applies to additional expenses incurred for delays of 5+ hours, covering accommodation, meals, and local transport costs.
• Travel Inconvenience: Applies when one of the following occurs: your return home is delayed and causes you to miss 2 or more days of work, your flight must land 50+ miles from the original destination, there’s a documented security breach causing delays at your departure terminal, you’re a victim of a verified physical assault, your credit/debit card is canceled for reasons beyond your control, or your travel documents are stolen and can’t be replaced locally.
• Emergency Accident and Sickness Medical Expense: Covers losses due to medical and dental emergencies. This is secondary coverage except on the Premier plan.
• Medical Evacuation and Repatriation of Remains: Covers medically necessary transportation and care en route when you’re ill or injured and don’t have access to appropriate care in the immediate area. You also can be covered for repatriation to your home or other U.S. city with appropriate care, requiring prior approval.
• Baggage Damage or Loss: Provides reimbursement for loss, damage, or theft of personal effects in excess of other insurance, such as homeowners’ or airline baggage policies.
• Baggage Delay: Provides reimbursement for covered expenses after 12+ hours of baggage delay at your destination. Covered expenses include necessary clothing, laundry, toiletries, and costs for retrieving your baggage. Coverage ends when your luggage is retrieved or you return home — whichever is first.
• Missed Connection: Can reimburse expenses related to missed cruises, tours, flights, or trip departures due to 3+ hours of delays. Covered delays include weather, carrier problems, strikes, quarantines, and more. Expenses cover costs to catch up with your trip or money lost from missing the trip.
• Airline Cancellation or Reissue Fees: Reimburses costs for changing or canceling tickets after interruptions or canceled flights. This coverage applies to costs after any refunds or vouchers you receive.
• Travel Assistance Services: Provides 24/7 assistance services like security advice, coordination of medical benefits, interpreters, legal referrals, and referrals for needs during emergencies. Note that you may have costs for services you use from these referrals.

It’s also important to note that each section has rules and restrictions about which costs are covered, when coverage applies, and other terms you must follow.

Optional Add-ons to Atlas Journey Plans

You’ll see options for additional coverage depending on the base plan you select:

• Cancel for Any Reason Coverage (CFAR): This add-on policy covers up to 75% of your losses if you cancel for reasons not covered in other sections of your policy, so long as you purchase within 21 days of your first deposit and cancel 48+ hours before the trip. This add-on isn’t available for Economy plans.
• Interruption for Any Reason: Provides reimbursement for 50% of non-refundable trip costs after a trip is interrupted for non-covered reasons. WorldTrips says, “No questions asked” on this coverage. This add-on is available for Premier plans only.
• Pre-existing Conditions: Requires purchasing a policy within 21 days of the initial deposit and covers pre-existing conditions that have a change in treatment or that make you unable to travel.
• Adventure Sports: Provides coverage for leisure, non-professional sports like bungee jumping, scuba diving, and mountain climbing up to 7,000 meters, as well as safari activities. This add-on is available for all plan levels.
• Rental Car Damage and Theft: Requires a $250 deductible; afterward, provides rental car coverage for collision, theft, and damage beyond your control. You must be authorized to drive at the destination and listed on the rental policy. This add-on is available for all plan levels.
• Pet Care: Provides reimbursement for a trip canceled due to the death or critical illness of your dog or cat within 7 days of trip departure. Provides up to $250 in coverage for boarding fees if your return home is delayed for a covered reason and up to $500 for emergency veterinary care for a pet traveling with you. This add-on is available with all plan types.
• Rental Accommodations Protection: Covers trip interruptions if you can’t access your vacation rental property for 12+ hours or if your property is unsuitable or not as described on arrival. It’s available on all plan levels.
• School Activities: Provides cancellation coverage for trips you must cancel due to school activities like exams or sporting events beyond standard season dates. This coverage also applies to study abroad, volunteer, or philanthropic programs. This add-on is available for all plan levels.
• Hunting and Fishing: Covers canceled and interrupted trips related to changes in government regulations or delays of 24+ hours in receiving your necessary equipment. This coverage also applies to theft, damage, and destruction of your essential equipment and trips where your guide or traveling companion becomes medically unfit to participate. This add-on is available for all plan levels.
• Destination Wedding: Provides reimbursement for lost funds when you plan to attend a wedding and then it’s canceled. Coverage also applies to canceled flights, flights forced to land 50+ miles from the intended airport, and flight delays of 12+ hours. This add-on isn’t available for Economy plans.
• Security/Terrorism: This covers cancellations due to terrorist events at your destination or trip interruption for riots/civil unrest lasting 12+ hours. It also can provide ransom payments or security assistance for kidnapping. However, it doesn’t cover countries like Mali, Afghanistan, Syria, or others excluded from the policy. It’s available on all plan levels.
• Primary Medical Coverage: This paid upgrade to Preferred plans makes the emergency medical and dental benefits primary coverage rather than secondary.
• Primary Baggage Coverage: This makes baggage coverage primary rather than secondary. This is available on all plan levels.

It’s also possible to upgrade your maximum coverage limits on certain benefits. These include baggage loss and upgrading benefits from secondary to primary coverage.

Few companies offer kidnapping ransom, destination wedding, or school activity coverage. If these are concerns for your upcoming trip, WorldTrips can make sense over competitors that lack these protections.

Take note that rental car protection isn’t included in any plans — not even the Premier plan. It’s available for an additional cost, but this reinforces the importance of using a good credit card that provides built-in rental car protections .

When purchasing an Atlas Journey plan, this coverage is included if you purchase your plan within 21 days of your initial trip payment.

Atlas and StudentSecure plans purchased on or after February 2, 2023, include coverage for medical expenses related to COVID-19.

Comparison of WorldTrips Atlas Journey Travel Insurance Plans

There are several coverages that are the same across all 3 plans :

• Coverage for Pre-existing Medical Conditions — Included if conditions are met and policy is purchased within 21 days of initial deposit
• 24/7 Travel Assistance Services — Included
• Adventure Sports Medical Coverage — Available add-on service; average cost $44
• Pet Care — Available add-on service; average cost $10
• Rental Car Damage and Theft — Available add-on service; average cost $50
• Rental Accommodation Protection — Available add-on service; average cost $21
• School Activities Protection — Available add-on service; average cost $16
• Hunting and Fishing Protection — Available add-on service; average cost of $20

This is the most inexpensive plan but still covers the essentials. You can be reimbursed for canceled, interrupted, and delayed trips and get reimbursed for sicknesses, injuries, and even delayed bags. Numerous add-ons can improve this plan, though the cost will increase.

This intermediate plan offers more coverage and higher cover limits than the Economy plan but costs more. This plan has additional add-on options, and it’s the lowest plan with an option for CFAR coverage.

The most expensive plan also offers the most robust coverage — in terms of types and values. It’s the only plan with an option to add coverage for pre-existing conditions, though many options remain add-ons and aren’t included in this plan (such as rental car coverage).

None of the Atlas Journey plans include rental car protections. Those are available as an add-on, however.

WorldTrips provides another travel insurance plan called On-The-Go . It’s only available to U.S. residents and covers non-refundable trip costs, lost or damaged personal items (including luggage), and medical expenses (including COVID-19).

You can be covered for trip interruption, travel delays, missed connections, and emergency medical expenses. However, you won’t be covered for trip cancellation and cannot add coverage for pre-existing conditions or CFAR.

How Much Does WorldTrips Travel Insurance Cost?

Let’s price some sample plans to see how they cost. This will give you a better idea of whether these plans fit your budget.

These plans are available to U.S. residents and citizens and cover domestic and international trips.

These plans are available to residents of numerous countries and only cover international trips.

Notice there is a high additional cost for elderly travelers . Also, your maximum coverage amount is lower for people aged 60 and above.

Since Atlas Travel plans primarily focus on medical coverage, you don’t need to provide your trip cost when getting a quote. These plans can make sense if you’re OK with minimal trip protections while ensuring you’re covered for possible injuries during a trip. You can choose from several options for a maximum coverage amount and deductible payment for your claims.

These plans are focused on medical coverage during international trips. If you aren’t worried about expenses for delays or cancellations, you could potentially save money by purchasing an Atlas Travel plan. These especially make sense for last-minute trips where your odds of cancellations are low.

As these plans have maximum coverage amounts and don’t cover trip cancellation, they’re cheaper. This can be a good option if your trip is unlikely to be canceled and you want protection for your stuff and your health during a vacation. As long as you’re a U.S. resident, plans are available for both international and domestic travel.

How WorldTrips Travel Insurance Compares To Other Options

Part of shopping for trip insurance is understanding what you get and how much it costs. The other part is understanding how this compares to competitors. What are companies like Generali Global Assistance and Nationwide charging for similar plans? Here’s a comparison of costs.

We priced a 1-week itinerary for 2 travelers (ages 40 and 39) going to Colombia in November 2023. The cost for the trip was estimated at $3,000, and the first trip deposit was made in the last 24 hours. Squaremouth provided these comparison costs.

The WorldTrips plan had the middle cost of the 3 .

All 3 plans included COVID-19 coverage; all 3 provided the same trip cancellation benefits and the same medical evacuation benefits . However, WorldTrips and Nationwide had lower maximums for emergency medical benefits than Generali, and WorldTrips also had the lowest maximum benefit for trip interruption .

WorldTrips has a competitive cost against similar plans from other providers. You’ll see similar coverage types and maximum payouts in some areas. However, you’ll see lower benefits for emergency medical and trip interruption than more expensive options. Consider these numbers and how important they are.

You may be surprised that your credit card could provide some of the same travel insurance . This could help you save money by not needing to buy a separate policy.

However, when the coverage goes into effect varies. Some credit cards require you to pay for the entire trip (including round-trip tickets, not one-way) with that card to trigger the protections. Others go into effect by paying just a portion of the trip with that card. It’s important to understand exactly what your card offers and when it’s available to determine if those protections are sufficient.

Here’s a look at how WorldTrips’ Atlas Journey Premier plan compares to coverage with The Platinum Card ® from American Express , Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card , Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card , and Chase Sapphire Reserve ® .

WorldTrips’ Premier plan has lower trip delay, lower lost luggage, and lower accidental death and dismemberment benefit maximums than you may get with premium credit cards. However, WorldTrips’ top plan has better baggage delay protections and offers the best protections for emergency medical and emergency evacuation.

Even before your trip, you should think about “what if something goes wrong” and have a plan. That includes buying your plan within required deadlines (based on initial and final trip payments) and keeping receipts for every expense. Keep receipts for flights, hotels, rental cars, meals during trip delays, and even a toothbrush while waiting for delayed luggage. Keep it all.

You also should read the policy documents before and after buying a plan. These will help you know precisely what is and isn’t covered. For instance, destination wedding coverage can be handy if the wedding gets called off, but the policy’s fine print will tell you you’re not covered if you’re the bride or groom.

Keeping a paper trail and knowing what is (and isn’t) covered will ensure a smoother claim process because you’ll avoid submitting unnecessary claims and will avoid unnecessary delays during the evaluation process. It also helps you know what’s covered before you swipe your card for expenses during a delay.

If you need to submit a claim, WorldTrips has a “How the claims process works” page , and it includes instructions on what to do, what forms you need, and how the claims process varies based on whether your trip was inside or outside the U.S. It also provides information on how medical facilities can direct bill WorldTrips, which can save you the hassle of paying and then waiting for reimbursement.

No one likes to think about emergencies when planning an exciting holiday. However, planning for emergencies can reduce stress and costs should something go wrong. WorldTrips offers several types of travel insurance, covering all your bases or potential medical expenses. The sheer variety of options provides more potential coverage types than many competitors.

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa ® or Mastercard ® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

For the baggage insurance plan benefit of the Amex Platinum card, baggage insurance plan coverage can be in effect for covered persons for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen baggage during their travel on a common carrier vehicle (e.g. plane, train, ship, or bus) when the Entire Fare for a ticket for the trip (one-way or round-trip) is charged to an eligible card. Coverage can be provided for up to $2,000 for checked baggage and up to a combined maximum of $3,000 for checked and carry-on baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the common carrier. The coverage is also subject to a $3,000 aggregate limit per covered trip. For New York State residents, there is a $2,000 per bag/suitcase limit for each covered person with a $10,000 aggregate maximum for all covered persons per covered trip. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

For the car rental loss and damage insurance benefit of the Amex Platinum card, car rental loss and damage insurance can provide coverage up to $75,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the commercial car rental company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. geographic restrictions apply. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

For the premium global assist hotline benefit of the Amex Platinum card, eligibility and benefit level varies by Card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. If approved and coordinated by premium global assist hotline, emergency medical transportation assistance may be provided at no cost. In any other circumstance, card members may be responsible for the costs charged by third-party service providers.

For the trip delay insurance benefit of the Amex Platinum card, up to $500 per covered trip that is delayed for more than 6 hours; and 2 claims per eligible card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

For the trip cancellation and interruption insurance benefit of the Amex Platinum card, the maximum benefit amount for trip cancellation and interruption insurance is $10,000 per covered trip and $20,000 per eligible card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

The information regarding the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions

Is worldtrips legit.

WorldTrips has been around since 1879 and operates in 180 countries. It’s headquartered in Houston, Texas, has excellent financial strength ratings from multiple credit rating organizations.

 How do I contact WorldTrips insurance?

In the U.S., you can call 800-605-2282. From outside the U.S., call collect to 317-262-2132.

How do I submit a claim to Worldtrips?

Within the member portal (formerly the Client Zone), you can access the claimant form, fill it out, and then upload all of your documents electronically. It’s also possible to bill WorldTrips directly for medical expenses.

How do I cancel my Worldtrips policy?

Send an email to [email protected] to cancel your travel insurance policy. You must submit your request prior to the policy’s effective date to receive a refund.

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Ryan completed his goal of visiting every country in the world in December of 2023 and now plans to let his wife choose their destinations. Over the years, he’s written about award travel for publications including AwardWallet, The Points Guy, USA Today Blueprint, CNBC Select, Tripadvisor, and Forbes Advisor.

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WorldTrips Travel Insurance Review: Is it Worth The Cost?

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Since 1998, WorldTrips has provided medical insurance and trip protection to travelers from the U.S. and around the world in addition to coverage for international students. The company also provides coverage for various tour groups, missionary work and student exchange programs. The insurance policies are underwritten by Tokio Marine HCC, a Houston-based insurance company.

Whether you’re a U.S. resident looking for comprehensive travel insurance plans or a student looking for a medical-only policy, WorldTrips insurance has coverage options.

What kind of plans does WorldTrips provide?

If you’re a U.S. resident, WorldTrips offers four single-trip comprehensive travel insurance plans: Atlas Cruiser, Atlas Journey Economy, Atlas Journey Preferred and Atlas Journey Premier. Here's a quick overview of the coverage offered by each plan.

Atlas Cruiser: This plan comes with 100% trip cancellation , 100% trip interruption , $25,000 medical expenses, $100,000 medical evacuation and $1,500 baggage loss coverage (up to $500 per item). This plan also offers optional Cancel For Any Reason coverage for up to 75% of the total trip cost (as long as you purchase it within 21 days of your initial trip payment and more than 48 hours before your trip begins).

Atlas Journey Economy: This budget plan covers 100% trip cancellation, 100% trip interruption, $10,000 medical expenses , $250,000 medical evacuation and $1,000 baggage loss (up to $250 per item).

Atlas Journey Preferred: This mid-range plan offers coverage for 100% trip cancellation, 150% trip interruption, $100,000 medical expenses, $1 million medical evacuation and $1,500 baggage loss (up to $500 per item). You can add Cancel For Any Reason coverage for 50% or 75% of the total trip cost.

Atlas Journey Premier: The priciest plan also provides the most coverage, including 100% trip cancellation, 150% trip interruption, $150,000 medical expenses (primary coverage), $1 million medical evacuation and $2,000 baggage loss (up to $500 per item). You have the option to add Cancel For Any Reason coverage for 50% or 75% of the total trip cost.

Non-U.S. residents and international students have access to medical-only policies. Annual plans aren’t available for U.S. residents.

» Learn more: The best travel insurance companies

WorldTrips travel insurance cost and coverage

WorldTrips offers several comprehensive single-trip plans that include basic trip protections and medical coverage. The cost varies based on coverage limits.

WorldTrips single-trip plan cost

Here's a comparison of the cost of WorldTrips insurance plans for a 10-day trip that costs $2,000 for a 35-year-old traveler from California. In our example, the destination isn’t specified, and the trip doesn’t include a cruise.

The Atlas Journey Premier plan comes in at $126, the most expensive option. The Atlas Cruiser plan has a similar cost of $120. The Preferred and Economy plans, which cost $103 and $79, respectively, are a bit cheaper, but come with lower coverage limits.

» Learn more: What to know before buying travel insurance

Which WorldTrips travel insurance plan is for me?

The kind of coverage you’re seeking for your upcoming travels is going to affect your plan selection. Here are a few situations which might influence your decision:

If you’ve made nonrefundable deposits for your trip: If you’re going on a safari to Kenya or on a cruise to Antarctica and you’ve prepaid nonrefundable expenses, you probably want to go with plans that offer more coverage, such as Atlas Journey Preferred or Atlas Journey Premier.

If you need to add on Cancel for Any Reason coverage: For single-trip insurance plans, go with either Atlas Cruiser, Atlas Journey Preferred or Atlas Journey Premier because they offer this optional upgrade.

If travel insurance is mandatory and you hold a premium travel rewards credit card : If a tour operator requires you purchase travel insurance but you hold a credit card that already provides some trip protections, you can probably get away with the least expensive Atlas Journey Economy policy.

» Learn more: What does travel insurance cover?

How to get a quote from WorldTrips

To get an online quote, go to the WorldTrips home page and select whether you’re a U.S. resident, a non-U.S. resident or an international student. If you’re a U.S. resident, click on that box, then fill out the form to price your plan.

Make sure to provide your state of residence, total trip cost, departure and return dates, traveler’s age and initial trip payment date. If you’re going on a cruise, be sure to check the box. Once the form is complete, select “View my plans” and compare the plan types.

What isn’t covered by WorldTrips insurance?

As with any travel insurance policy, there are some exclusions to coverage. Here’s a sampling of things WorldTrips doesn’t cover:

Intentional self-inflicted injuries, including suicide.

War, invasion or acts of foreign enemies.

Speed or endurance competitions as well as athletic stunts.

Piloting or learning how to pilot an aircraft.

Being engaged in illegal activities.

Medical tourism.

Traveling against a physician’s advice.

Operating a motor vehicle without a license.

» Learn more: How much is travel insurance in 2023?

Is WorldTrips travel insurance worth it?

WorldTrips insurance offers multiple plans for U.S. travelers looking for trip insurance and medical coverage abroad as well as non-U.S. travelers and students looking for medical coverage in case of an unexpected injury or illness.

If you travel once or twice per year, WorldTrips offers several comprehensive single-trip policy options that are worth checking out. However, if you need an annual plan, you'll want to look elsewhere.

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Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

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Reviews 4.2.

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Bought it coz any accidents related to hiking abroad

II bought insurance just in case. In case I have any accidents related to hiking abroad Good thing I didn't use it. But having peace of mind is better than not having it. Because anything can happen.

Date of experience : April 13, 2024

Reply from WorldTrips

Hello, Navapat. Thank you for taking the time to leave a review. We are happy to hear that you were pleased with your purchase. If there is anything we could do to improve your experience, feel free to share your thoughts with us by emailing us at [email protected]. We look forward to joining you on your next adventure. Thank you for choosing WorldTrips!

Excellent company and customer service

Excellent company and customer service, there is a reason they are the best travel insurance in the world.

Date of experience : April 18, 2024

Hello and thank you for your review! We are happy to hear that you received excellent support from our customer service team. Let us know if you need any further assistance - We will be happy to help! Thank you for choosing WorldTrips.

It was quite confuse to select the…

It was quite confuse to select the coverage, but I hope it worked for the proposal I need.

Date of experience : April 03, 2024

Hi Beatriz. Thank you for taking the time to leave a review. If you have any further questions you are welcome to send us an email at [email protected] with your name, policy number, and reference to this review. We will be happy to assist you. Safe travels on your upcoming trip!

Great customer service!

Great customer service...Kevin was more than willing to take the time to listen and help with my needs/questions. Very helpful!

Hello and thank you for sharing your experience with us! We will pass this great feedback along to the customer service team. Wishing you safe travels on your upcoming trip. Thank you for choosing WorldTrips!

Good but have not had to use it

Good customer service. Easy to order. Good portal. Right price per day. I always caution people that you really do not know how good your insurance provider is until you must use their product. I have been lucky and have not had to use their product. So it has been unused peace of mind.

Date of experience : April 04, 2024

Hello, Hua. Thank you for taking the time to leave a review. We are happy to hear that you had a great experience with us. Wishing you safe travels on your upcoming trip. Thank you for choosing WorldTrips!

Always worth having

I didn't need to use it, but having travel insurance especially when travelling international always gives me so much peace of mind. It's come in handy in the past and its always worth the cose. World Trips had fair pricing and my information was easy to access should I have need it. Will definitely look to use them again. (edited for spelling)

Date of experience : March 02, 2024

Hello, Adrianne. We are happy to hear that you had such a great experience with us and appreciate you taking the time to leave a review! Thank you for choosing WorldTrips. We look forward to joining you on your next adventure!

simple fairly strainght forward site to navigate

simple, fairly straight forward site in which to choode the health insurance needed. One issue we had was trying to decipher travel vs health insurance, as it was not terribly clear which to choose

Date of experience : March 27, 2024

Hello, Joseph. Thank you for taking the time to leave a review! We are always looking for ways to improve our website and we appreciate you sharing your feedback. Our team will look into this and see if we can make some changes!

Why I buy WorldTrips Atlas travel insurance

It is easy to purchase my travel insurance. It is inexpensive to purchase my travel insurance. After my purchase I feel much more secure about possible health issues while in Canada.

Date of experience : March 22, 2024

Hello, Kevin. Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us! We are happy to hear that you had such a great experience. Safe travels and thank you for choosing WorldTrips!

I have coverage

I have coverage. Not needed yet thankfully n.

Date of experience : April 10, 2024

Hi, David. We appreciate you taking the time to leave a review. It is great to hear that you were pleased with your experience with us. Safe travels - Thank you for choosing WorldTrips!

I usually don't give reviews but I…

I usually don't give reviews but I wanted to share my thoughts about World Trips due to the excellent service I've been getting. It is extremely easy to book with them. Just select a policy that suits you, for example zero deductible or a maximum coverage of 250k. I had a minor motorcycle accident couple years back in the Dominican Republic and world trips covered my hospital expenses without hesitation or causing a headache. I highly recommend world trips to anyone who needs insurance for a travel trip.

Date of experience : March 13, 2024

Hello, David. Thank you for taking the time to leave your feedback! We greatly appreciate your kindness and we are happy to hear that you had such a great experience with us. We wish you safe travels and cannot wait to join you on your next journey! Thank you for being a loyal WorldTrips customer.

I have just got my cards and tried…

I have just got my cards and tried registering on your portal. After successful registration and logiing in, the system doesn't seem to log me out, even when I logout and exit. Logging in with my wife's account still shows my page.

Date of experience : March 30, 2024

Hello, Raghavendra. Thank you for sharing your feedback with us. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience you have experienced. Someone on our team will look into this for you and will reach out, via email, as soon as possible.

Quick and simple

The process to get the insurance was quick and simple. It would be a great idea to include thw total cost of the insurance through the purchasing process for the consumer to be aware.

Hello, Christine. Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us. We will look into this as soon as possible. Thank you for being a WorldTrips customer!

Easy to use website

Easy to use website, fast quote. Disappointed it costs so much for a 75 yr old though - a big difference between 60 - 70. 😩

Date of experience : March 24, 2024

Hi Jaine. Thank you for taking the time to leave your feedback. If you are in need of any assistance, let us know and we will be happy to help!

Bills not paid even in 7 months after…

Bills not paid even in 7 months after submission Bill submitted on 08/22/2023 have not been paid so far upto 03/202014—210 days —- 7 month Request you to investigate who is sleeping on them What compensation you want to give me ??

Date of experience : March 20, 2024

Hello. We apologize for the inconvenience you have experienced. Our team is actively looking into this and will provide an update as soon as possible. Thank you.

Travel safely with an insurance

My experience is that I can travel safely knowing that I have insurance that can cover my expenses in case of accidents or something else. It’s easy to buy an insurance at this company.

Date of experience : March 11, 2024

Hello Aldemar. Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us and for being a WorldTrips customer!

Website very very very slow.

The worldtrips website has been agonizingly slow. Please address this as I have 2 trips where I am using worldtrips. It was not this slow before. I will probably get my next insurance if this will continue for another month. I have been happy in the past but this experience of waiting so long for the website to load is too frustrating.

Date of experience : March 08, 2024

Hello, Adrian. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused and appreciate you bringing this to our attention. Our team is actively working on making our website quicker and more user-friendly. We understand your frustration and hope you will bear with us during this transition time. In the meantime, we wish you safe travels on your upcoming trip! Thank you.

Please Don't Use WorldTrips

I submitted a claim in July after having to go to the emergency room on July 2nd. Despite providing all the documentation I was given, my claim was rejected for not enough documentation & they logged the date as July 1st. I filed 2 appeals, but they don't show up on the website, and I haven't heard back from World Trips. I try to contact them via email: no response, try to call: Number unavailable. So now coming up on 9 months. The whole point of insurance is if you have a freak accident, and need to go the hospital, you're covered. No responses. No help. No coverage. So essentially, the monthly payments are for nothing; this is a scam.

Date of experience : March 15, 2024

Hello, Ben. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience you have experienced and appreciate you bringing this to our attention. Our team is actively looking into this and will provide an update as soon as possible. You should expect to hear from us in the next 3-5 business days.

They are the real deal!

They are the real deal! They helped us greatly during a traumatic situation

Hello. Thank you for taking the time to leave your feedback! We are happy to hear that you had such a great experience with us and we look forward to joining you on your future adventures. Thank you for choosing WorldTrips!

I feel safe with world trips

I feel safe with world trips and the service they provide! I use them every time I’m travel abroad. Excellent upgrade options and additional added extras for a small fee. Now in the event I take a fall or twist my ankle it’s reassuring to know I have quality health insurance benefits available to me.

Date of experience : February 22, 2024

Hello - We appreciate you taking the time to leave a review! It is great to hear that you have enjoyed traveling with us. Thank you for choosing WorldTrips! We look forward to joining you on your future adventures. Safe travels.

always be insured

I have never need to use my insurance but they are always swift to send all requested documents.

Hi Tayfun! Thank you for your feedback. We are happy to hear that you were satisfied with how quick you were able to access your documents. Thank you for choosing WorldTrips!

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WorldTrips is a service company and a member of the Tokio Marine HCC group of companies. WorldTrips' Atlas Journey, Atlas Cruiser, and Atlas On-The-Go trip protection insurance products are underwritten by Tokio Marine HCC U.S. Specialty Insurance Company (USSIC). USSIC is a Texas-domiciled insurance company operating on an admitted basis throughout the United States. WorldTrips' Atlas Travel Series and StudentSecure international travel medical insurance products are underwritten by Lloyd's. WorldTrips has authority to enter into contracts of insurance on behalf of the Lloyd's underwriting members of Lloyd's Syndicate 4141, which is managed by HCC Underwriting Agency, Ltd.

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Is It Safe in Moscow?

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When you visit Moscow , Russia, you’re seeing one of the world’s largest, and most expensive, capital cities . While there is a history of violent crime against foreign journalists and aid personnel in Russia, a trip to Moscow is usually safe for mainstream travelers. Most tourists in Moscow only face potential issues with petty crime, though terrorism is also a concern. Visitors should stick to the principal tourist areas and abide by the local security advice.

Travel Advisories

• The U.S. Department of State urges travelers to avoid travel to Russia because of COVID-19 and to "exercise increased caution due to terrorism, harassment, and the arbitrary enforcement of local laws."  
• Anyone exploring more of Russia should avoid "The North Caucasus, including Chechnya and Mount Elbrus, due to terrorism, kidnapping,   and   risk of civil unrest." Also, travelers should stay away from "Crimea due to Russia’s occupation of the Ukrainian territory   and   abuses by its occupying authorities."  
• Canada states travelers should use a high degree of caution in Russia due to the threat of terrorism and crime.  

Is Moscow Dangerous?

The Moscow city center is typically safe. In general, the closer you are to the Kremlin , the better. Travelers mainly need to be aware of their surroundings and look out for petty crime. Be especially careful in tourist areas such as Arbat Street and crowded places like the Moscow Metro transit system. The suburbs are also generally fine, though it is advised to stay away from Maryino and Perovo districts.

Terrorism has occurred in the Moscow area, leading authorities to increase security measures. Be more careful at tourist and transportation hubs, places of worship, government buildings, schools, airports, crowds, open markets, and additional tourist sites.

Pickpockets and purse snatching happen often in Russia, perpetrated by groups of children and teenagers who distract tourists to get their wallets and credit cards. Beware of people asking you for help, who then trick you into their scheme. Don’t expect a backpack to be a safe bag bet; instead, invest in something that you can clutch close to your body or purchase a money belt . Always diversify, storing some money in a separate location so that if you are pickpocketed, you'll have cash elsewhere. Keep an eye out for thieves in public transportation, underground walkways, tourist spots, restaurants, hotel rooms and homes, restaurants, and markets.

Is Moscow Safe for Solo Travelers?

Large cities like Moscow in Russia are overall fairly safe if you are traveling alone, and the Moscow Metro public transit is a secure and easy way to get around. But it is still a good idea to follow basic precautions as in any destination. Avoid exploring alone at night, especially in bad areas. You may want to learn some basic Russian phrases or bring a dictionary, as many locals don't speak English. However, in case you need any help, there are tourist police that speak English. Also, exploring with other trusted travelers and locals or on professional tours is often a good way to feel safe.

Is Moscow Safe for Female Travelers?

Catcalling and street harassment are infrequent in Moscow and the rest of Russia and females traveling alone don't usually have problems. There are plenty of police officers on the streets as well. Still, it serves to stick to Moscow's well-lit, public areas, avoid solo night walks, and use your instincts. Women frequenting bars may take receive some friendly attention. Females can wear whatever they want, but those entering Orthodox churches will be required to cover up. Though women in Russia are independent, domestic violence and other inequality issues take place regularly.

Safety Tips for LGBTQ+ Travelers

Russia is not known as a gay-friendly country. However, Moscow is one of the more welcoming cities with a blooming LGBTQ+ community and many friendly restaurants, bars, clubs, and other venues. Hate crimes in Russia have increased since the 2013 anti-gay propaganda law. Openly LGBTQ+ tourists in this conservative country may experience homophobic remarks, discrimination, or even violence, especially if traveling with a partner. Also, while women hold hands or hug publicly—whether romantically involved or not—men should avoid public displays of affection to prevent being insulted or other issues.

Safety Tips for BIPOC Travelers

Moscow  and other big cities in Russia have sizable populations of various cultures, so discrimination against BIPOC travelers is rarer than in other parts of the country where it can become dangerous. Some people living in Russia who are Black, Asian, Jewish, and from other backgrounds have experienced racial discrimination and violence. Tourists won't usually experience overt racism but may be the recipients of some stares. If anyone should bother you, be polite and resist being taunted into physically defending yourself.

Safety Tips for Travelers

Travelers should consider the following general tips when visiting:

• It's best not to drink the tap water. If you do, boil it before drinking, though showering is safe and the amount used to brush teeth is generally not harmful. Mineral water is widely drunk, especially at restaurants, and if you prefer not to have it carbonated ask for “ voda byez gaz” (water without gas).
• If you need emergency assistance in case of fire, terrorism, medical issues, or more, dial 112 in Russia for bilingual operators.
• Be judicious about taking photographs, especially of police or officials. This can potentially bring unwanted attention to yourself by members of law enforcement who won’t mind asking to see your passport. Also avoid snapping photos of official-looking buildings, such as embassies and government headquarters.
• Carry your passport in as secure a manner as possible. If you get stopped for any reason by the police, they can fine or arrest you if you don't have the document with you. Also, keep photocopies of your passport, the page on which your travel visa appears, and any other documents that relate to your stay in Russia.
• Use official taxis only and steer clear of illegal taxi companies, especially at night. Ask your hotel to call a reputable taxi company.

U.S. Department of State. " Russia Travel Advisory ." August 6, 2020.

Government of Canada. " Official Global Travel Advisories ." November 19, 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!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

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.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

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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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Moscow International Business Center (Moscow City)

• Guide to Russia

What can you do at Moscow City?

• Dine in style: Moscow City is home to 100+ cafes and restaurants, including Europe’s highest restaurant and ice-cream shop
• See Moscow like never before: Ascend to one of Moscow City’s observation decks for an unparalleled panorama of Moscow
• Admire world-class architecture: Each of Moscow City’s skyscrapers has distinctive architecture and design
• Learn something new: Visit the Museum of High-Rise Architecture in Moscow or the Metro Museum

Moscow City is a multifunctional complex in the west of Moscow, which has come to represent the booming business of Russia’s capital. Its skyscrapers enrich Moscow’s skyline, contrasting the medieval cupolas and Stalinist high-rises. Visitors to Moscow City can enjoy entertainment high in the sky, as the complex is home not just to offices, but to restaurants, cinemas, viewing platforms, and museums.

Photo by Alex Zarubi on Unsplash

History of Moscow City

Moscow City was first conceived in 1991 by honoured Soviet architect Boris Tkhor, who proposed to construct a business center in Moscow. It would be complete with gleaming skyscrapers rivalling those of New York and London, to reflect the new life and growing ambitions of post-Soviet Russia.

The chosen site was a stone quarry and disused industrial zone in western Moscow, in between the Third Ring Road and Moskva River. Initially, the territory was divided into 20 sections arranged in a horseshoe shape around a central zone. The skyscrapers would increase in height as they spiralled around the central section, with shorter structures built on the waterfront to give the taller buildings behind a view of the river. 

Architect Gennady Sirota, who contributed to iconic projects such as the Olympic Sports Complex on Prospekt Mira, was selected as the chief architect, and many other world-famous architects were attracted to Moscow to realise their visions in Moscow City.

What can you see and do at Moscow City?

Where Moscow’s cityscape was once dominated by Stalin’s Seven Sisters skyscrapers , this is no more. Moscow City is home to eight of Russia’s ten tallest buildings, six of which exceed 300 metres in height. More buildings are still under construction there today, including the One Tower (which will be Europe’s second-tallest building). Once completed, Moscow City will comprise more than 20 innovative structures.

Each of Moscow City’s skyscrapers was designed by its own architect, lending the cluster of skyscrapers a unique appearance. Aside from being a site of architectural wonder, Moscow City is a place for leisure and entertainment with over 100 cafes and restaurants, exhibition spaces, cinemas, viewing platforms, and more.

Photo by Nikita Karimov on Unsplash

Federation Tower

• East Tower: 374m, 97 floors; West Tower: 243m, 63 floors
• Completed in 2017
• Architects: Sergey Tchoban and Peter Schweger

The East Federation Tower is the tallest building in Moscow, and the second-tallest building in Europe after the Lakhta Centre in St Petersburg. Visitors can enjoy a luxurious meal of seafood, truffles or steak at restaurant ‘Sixty’ on the 62nd floor of the West Tower, or visit Europe’s highest observation deck, ‘Panorama 360’, on the 89th floor of the East Tower.

Did you know? The ice cream and chocolate shop on the 360 observation deck are the highest in the world!

• South Tower: 354m, 85 floors; North Tower: 254m, 49 floors
• Completed in 2015
• Architect: Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP

The South OKO Tower is the third-tallest building in Russia and Europe. Here, you can visit ‘Ruski’ to dine on hearty Russian cuisine cooked on a real Russian stove, and have a drink in the ice bar. Alternatively, visit restaurant, nightclub and performance space ‘Birds’; the restaurant is the highest in Europe, situated on the 86th floor roof terrace alongside an observation deck. The OKO Towers are also home to karaoke club ‘City Voice’.

Did you know? Underneath OKO Towers is the largest underground parking in Europe, with 16 levels and 3,400 parking spaces.

Mercury Tower

• 339m tall, 75 floors
• Architects : Mikhail Posokhin, Frank Williams, Gennady Sirota

Another multifunctional skyscraper, which was designed as the first truly ‘green’ building in Moscow. The Mercury Tower has a distinct geometric shape and copper-coloured glazing, and was the tallest building in Europe upon completion. Visit ‘More i myaso’ (Sea and meat) on the first floor of the tower to enjoy European and Mediterranean cuisine whilst surrounded by greenery. On the 2nd and 40th floors a modern art gallery, the ‘ILONA-K artspace’, has just opened.

City of Capitals

• Moscow Tower: 302m, 76 floors; St Petersburg Tower: 257m, 65 floors
• Completed in 2009
• Architect: Bureau NBBJ

The unique geometric design of the City of Capitals towers resembles stacks of rotating blocks, and is rooted in Constructivism of the early Soviet period (many Soviet Constructivist buildings can be found in Moscow). Visitors to the Moscow Tower can enjoy a range of cuisines – traditional Italian dishes on the summer terrace of ‘Tutto Bene’, Panasian cuisine in the tropical luxury of the ‘Bamboo Bar’ on the 1st floor’, and poke or smoothie bowls at ‘Soul in the Bowl’ cafe on the 80th floor.

Tower on the Embankment

• Tower A: 84m; Tower B:127m; Tower C: 268m, 61 floors
• Completed in 2007
• Architects: Vehbi Inan and Olcay Erturk

After completion, the Tower on the Embankment was the tallest building in Europe, and is now the 13th tallest. It houses the headquarters of several large Russian and international  companies, including IBM and KPMG. There are two cafes located on the 1st floor of Tower C – self-service café ‘Obed Bufet’ (Lunch Buffet) and Bakery Chain ‘Khleb Nasushchny’ (Daily Bread).

Evolution Tower

• 255m tall, 54 floors
• Architects: Philip Nikandrov and RMJM Scotland Ltd

Evolution is Moscow City’s most recognisable tower, and the 11th tallest building in Russia. Its façade is a true architectural marvel, comprising continuous strips of curved glazing spiralling high into  the sky. According to the architect, Philip Nikandrov, the spiral shape of the tower honours centuries of architectural design in Russia, from the onion domes of St Basil's Cathedral to Vladimir Shukhov’s Tatlin Tower, a masterpiece of Constructivist design. Outside the Evolution tower is a landscaped terrace and pedestrian zone descending to the Presnenskaya Embankment, which was also designed by Nikandrov.

Did you know? Moscow’s largest wedding palace was supposed to be built on the site of the Evolution tower, though the project was abandoned.

• 239m tall, 60 floors
• Completed in 2011

Imperia’s interesting design has a curved roof and an arched glass façade. Inside the tower are various cafes including ‘City Friends’ for all-day breakfasts and light lunches, ‘Mama in the City’ for simple meals of Russian cuisine, and ‘abc kitchen’ for European and Indian-inspired dishes. Alternatively, visit ‘High Bar’ on the 56th floor for cocktails with a view. In Imperia you’ll also find the Museum of High-Rise Construction in Moscow (suitably located on the 56th floor), and the Camera Immersive Theatre.

Did you know? Inside Vystavochnaya metro station is the Metro Museum , dedicated to the history of the beautiful Moscow Metro!

• 130m tall, 26 floors
• Completed in 2001
• Architect: Boris Tkhor

Tower 2000 was Moscow City’s first tower. It stands on the opposite bank of the Moskva River, and houses a viewing platform from which visitors can admire an unparalleled panorama of Moscow City. The Bagration Bridge reaches across the river from the tower to Moscow City, and underneath are piers from where you can take boat trips.

Photo by Alexander Popov on Unsplash

Afimall is Moscow’s largest entertainment and shopping complex, home to 450 shops, cafes and restaurants, a cinema, and a virtual-reality game park. The shopping centre is located in the central section of Moscow City, and a cinema and concert hall are currently under construction there.

What’s nearby?

Sechenov Botanical Gardens: The botanical gardens of the First Moscow State Medical University was created for students’ training and research in 1946. Today it is open for free visits, and is home to a large arboretum.

Park Krasnaya Presnya: This park belonged to the Studenets estate of the Gagarin princes. It is a monument of 18th and 19th century landscaping, with Dutch ponds, ornate bridges, and tree-lined alleys. There are also sports facilities, sports equipment rental, and cafes.

Photo by Akkit  on Wikipedia

Essential information for visitors

Website: https://www.citymoscow.ru/

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +7 (495) 730-23-33

Nearest metro: Mezhdunarodnaya (closest to the skyscrapers), Delovoy Tsentr (underneath Afimall), Vystavochnaya (closest to Expocentre)

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CHARGES: Western Pa. Tow Truck Operator Inflated Costs, Charged 27 Vehicle Owners Nearly $300K for Short-Trip Tows

Office of Attorney General, Allegheny County Police Charge Owner of Vince’s Towing with Corrupt Organizations, Theft, Insurance Fraud

HARRISBURG — Attorney General Michelle Henry, along with the Allegheny County Police Department, announced charges against the owner of a Pittsburgh-based towing company for inflating tow costs by charging “accident services” fees and other deceptive practices.

Vincent G. Fannick, 56, was charged Thursday with numerous felonies and misdemeanors, including 27 counts each of insurance fraud, theft by deception, theft by unlawful taking, and securing execution of documents by deception.

He was arraigned and bail was set at $25,000. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 3.

Investigators uncovered a pattern of Fannick charging consumers’ insurance companies with exorbitant tow costs by, initially, not revealing prices on invoices, then charging “accident services” fees. Those fees alone cost the 27 victims more than $100,000. In all, victims were charged nearly $300,000.

“This defendant allegedly preyed on consumers already in stressful situations, first by hiding costs when asking for invoice signatures, then by inflating prices for short tow jobs,” Attorney General Henry said. “Predatory, deceptive business practices will not be tolerated in the Commonwealth, and business owners who harm consumers to line their pockets will be held accountable.”

The Office of Attorney General and Allegheny County Police Department were co-affiants on more than 100 charges filed this week.

“These actions targeted unsuspecting members of our community during their most vulnerable moments,” Superintendent Christopher Kearns of the Allegheny County Police Department said. “We’re grateful for our partnership with the Office of the Attorney General throughout the course of this lengthy investigation.”

Investigators learned of the crimes in 2023, when a consumer reported their insurance company was charged $11,390 by Vince’s Towing — for a short-trip tow the vehicle owner did not even request. Of that total, $4,250 was designated as an “accident services” fee.

Law enforcement learned of 26 other consumers that, between February 2023 and February 2024, were subjected to the same scam. Vehicle owners’ insurance companies were charged between $9,460 and $13,105 for single, short-trip tows. In one case, Fannick charged $9,805 for towing a vehicle one-third of a mile.

Pennsylvania officials have been amping up efforts to educate consumers about predatory tow companies. The Pennsylvania Insurance Fraud Prevention Authority has a public awareness campaign based at www.knowyourtow.org .

In December, the Office of Attorney General collaborated with Bucks County officials in charging a tow company with inflating costs.

Fannick will be prosecuted by Insurance Fraud Deputy Attorney General Grant Miller. All charges are accusations. The defendant is innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Contact the Press Office

Mailing Address: PA Office of Attorney General / Press Office 16th Floor, Strawberry Square Harrisburg, PA 17120

Phone: 717-787-5211 Fax: 717-787-8242 Email: [email protected]