Where to stay

Moscow's top attractions are a testament to the city's long and intriguing history. The neighborhood to stay in for great sightseeing is central Tverskoy. It encompasses Tverskaya, Moscow's equivalent to the Champs-Élysées, and the Museum of Contemporary Russian History. Tverskoy is also the location of the unmissable Red Square, which is the heart of the city and site of Lenin's Mausoleum, St Basil's Cathedral, and the Kremlin. Another essential Moscow sightseeing experience is a stroll down one of the city's oldest pedestrianized streets, Arbat Street, in Arbat. This atmospheric district is also quite touristy, which makes for good hotel options. Families who want to be close to Moscow's center but in a more relaxed setting should consider booking a hotel in the more residential area of Basmanny in the city's once-industrial east.

Moscow's restaurant scene is every bit as glitzy as you'd expect. Handily Tverskoy's big-name and luxury hotels are ideally located if fine dining is top of your itinerary, particularly at venues such as Nobu and Novikov, favorites of the international elite. Those in search of something a little more laid-back should explore Pushkinskaya Square and its surrounds. Rooms in Presnensky, just to the west, are closer to quintessentially Russian dining experiences, such as haute-cuisine at Café Pushkin or dumplings at homely Mari Vanna. Historic and quaint Kitay-Gorod is the neighborhood to choose for wine bars and coffee shops. The best places to stay here range from chic design hotels to affordable bed-and-breakfast accommodations.

Most of Moscow's cultural highlights are within the Garden Ring, which encircles the city's central neighborhoods. Lovers of literature in particular should stay in Khamovniki to follow in the footsteps of great Russian writers, including a visit to the Leo Tolstoy State Museum. For accommodations outside the Garden Ring, look to Izmaylovo, east of the center. This neighborhood's famous market, next to the cultural center of Izmailovo Kremlin, is the best spot to pick up Russian dolls or Soviet memorabilia before a tour of the Vodka History Museum.