Discovering Moscow’s timeless classic and iconic infrastructure

MOSCOW - I have been to Moscow before, but my second visit to this Russian capital was such an experience, a fusion of history, culture, and modernity. Away from the guns, bombs going off hundreds of kilometers in the Russian-Ukraine war, there is tranquility and quiet in Moscow.

As I stepped into Moscow, the cloudy skies welcomed me as I set out to explore the city's iconic infrastructure and experience its unique blend of tradition and modernity.

My journey began with a SputnikPro Writing Skills training funded by Rossotrudnichestvo's New Generation program.

People enjoying summer sunshine at Red square in Moscow. (Courtesy Photos)

I embarked on a guided tour of Moscow's most iconic landmarks, including the Kremlin, St. Basil's Cathedral, the majestic skyscrapers of Moscow City, and the historic Novodevichy Convent.

I noticed that despite the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict with Ukraine, Moscow continues to attract tourists from around the world.

While Western European visitors may be rare, tourists from the Gulf states and China are increasingly drawn to the city's rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture.

Pictures showing part of Moscow at night, taken from Moscow city building.

As I spoke with visitors from China, India, Saudi Arabia, and Mexico, I was struck by their enthusiasm for Moscow's safety, beauty, and hospitality.

A Chinese tourist noted, "The world actually right now has a very pessimistic view about Russia; once they visit, they will realise that reality is way different than the propaganda being spread out there.”

Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow

Tourism on the rise

Moscow's tourism industry is thriving, with officials reporting a significant increase in international visitors.

According to Bulat Normukhanov from the Moscow Tourism Committee, the city has welcomed almost 3 million international tourists, with 30% of them hailing from the Middle East.

Despite challenges related to payments because of the sanctions that the country faces, the city's government is working to relax visa rules and attract more visitors from "friendly" countries.

A lady takes a walk near Novodevichy Convent gardens in Moscow.

Visitors from abroad often remark on the disparity between their preconceptions of Russia and the reality they experience in Moscow.

The Western policy to isolate Russia has had an unintended consequence: it has driven more Russians to travel domestically, while lower flight and room rates have attracted international tourists.

In the face of sanctions, Moscow has found ways to adapt. International carriers may have suspended flights, but Chinese and Gulf airlines have filled the gap. Tourists are finding ways to navigate payment challenges, often travelling with cash.

Belorussky railway station building in Moscow.

The city's resilience and determination to thrive are evident in its growing tourism industry.

A marvel of soviet engineering, classic metro

As I journeyed through Moscow's underground tunnels, I was struck by the metro system's stunning neoclassical design, grand facade, and spacious interiors.

This masterpiece of Soviet engineering seamlessly blends functionality and aesthetics, transforming each station into a work of art.

The metro transcends its role as a mode of transportation, evolving into an immersive experience that showcases the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Some of the most notable stations include Belorussky railway station, built in 1870.

Moscow State University building in Moscow, found in 1755 by Mikhail Lomonosov.

This historic station is one of the nine main railway stations and serves as a key gateway for travellers heading to Belarus and Western Europe.

Then Komsomolskaya, a station featuring intricate mosaics and ornate details that depict scenes from Soviet history, with grand columns and spacious interiors, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

The electric yellow scooters rented through an application, Karaoke bars, and a night walk on Arbat street (commonly known as the tourists' street) were a major highlight too.

A picture of Novodevichy Convent built in 1524 at the crossing of the Moscow river in Moscow.

Arbat Street is a historic street, active 24/7, with many souvenir shops, cafes, restaurants, and bookstores. 

It is Moscow's unofficial stage for street musicians, artists, and performers. It has the iconic monument of Pushkin Statue, a symbol of old Moscow. Arbat is one of Moscow’s oldest streets (stretching back to the 15th century).

My time in Moscow was not only about exploring the city's iconic infrastructure but also about learning and connecting with fellow storytellers.

People walking inside the metro station in Moscow.

People using the escalator inside the metro station in Moscow.

The Sputnik writing skills training program I attended was a valuable experience, allowing me to meet 25 participants from 18 different countries and establish meaningful contacts.

From its stunning metro stations to its iconic buildings, Moscow is a destination that will leave you in awe. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or culture.