Hostels in Moscow

Home to more than 12 million people, Moscow is a thriving, exciting metropolis – and Europe's second largest city. Its history of 800 years can be seen in the monumental architecture and grandiose theatres, but there's also an edgier side with underground clubs, galleries and urban creative spaces. Walk in the footsteps of Soviet-era soldiers in Red Square or immerse yourself in the city's rich cultural history that has produced some of the world's best ballet, music and literature.

Stay in a Moscow hostel themed around Game of Thrones or music icons like Madonna and The Beatles. You can also live out a Russian fairy-tale fantasy in your own turret room with a private balcony. Hostel communal lounges are the perfect spot to share shots of vodka before hitting a burlesque show or Soviet-themed pub. Some hostels in Moscow even have onsite cafés where you can taste local delicacies like borscht and beef goulash. Female-only dorms are common, as well as private rooms for groups of friends or couples.

If you're looking to stay in the heart of the action, the Kitay-Gorod neighbourhood is within walking distance of the city's main attractions. Its quaint lanes are filled with churches, restaurants and cafés that convert into clubs at night. For something a bit more bohemian, you'll find Old Arbat street lined with performance artists, musicians and vendors selling everything from Babushka dolls to original paintings. Stay in the Basmanny district if you're after lush gardens and wide, leafy boulevards.

The founding site of Moscow – and the city's most iconic landmark – is Red Square. Once known for hosting Soviet parades, it's now fully pedestrianised and stretches out over 330 metres. Other famous attractions are dotted around its edges, such as the imposing Kremlin or the colourful, swirling domes of St Basil's Cathedral. History buffs can queue to see the remains of the former Soviet leader at Lenin's Mausoleum, while ballet and opera aficionados could book to watch a performance at the Bolshoi Theatre.

The ornate metro system is quite out of the ordinary – it's filled with chandeliers, marble statues and elaborate mosaics. Buy a top-up Troika card and you'll also be able to use local buses, trams and trolleys. If you're arriving at one of city's international airports, Sheremetyevo or Domodedovo, you can get to the city centre by Aeroexpress train. Moscow Leningradsky is one of nine train stations in Moscow and links with St Petersburg, while Belorussky connects to cities in western Europe.