One of the major hubs of politics, economics, culture and science in Eastern Europe, Moscow thrives as a city abuzz with past, present and future. Russia’s capital and most populous city offers historic sights, nightlife, dining and premium accommodations to travelers seeking to discover the magic of Moscow.

GETTING THERE
First thing to do when planning a trip to Moscow is to secure a visa before traveling. Russia’s national carrier is Aeroflot; most international flights arrive at Sheremetyevo International Airport, about 19 miles from the city center. The Aeroexpress train runs hourly; the 40-minute journey costs about $5. Reserve taxi service in advance and be sure to use a reputable service. Pink Taxi operates exclusively for female travelers with female drivers. For flights into Domodedovo Moscow Airport, train service to Paveletsky Station takes around 40 minutes for about $4.

GETTING AROUND
Easily navigable, the highly efficient Moscow Metro offers most signs now in both English and Russian. Trains depart about every 90 seconds, and the Circle Line services the city center. One trip costs around 50 cents; two-, five- and 10-trip tickets are available. Trams and trolley service also run throughout the city; tickets purchased in advance cost around 40 cents and from the driver, about 50 cents.

9–5
Café Pushkin
Opened in 1999 in a Baroque mansion, Café Pushkin is a Moscow icon. Start your day with the ultimate power breakfast, ranging from decadent — caviar and Champagne — to porridges, eggs and more. Open day and night, the restaurant also offers live music, free WiFi and a nonsmoking area.

Gusyatnikoff Restaurant
For doing business over classic Russian cuisine, consider Gusyatnikoff, offering billiards, smoking rooms, VIP rooms and private meeting spaces in addition to the second-floor dining. The décor and architecture are something special, including restored original parquet flooring from the 19th century.

Mario
One of Moscow’s most expensive restaurants, Mario’s Italian food will go a long way to impress important clients. Ingredients arrive from Italy weekly, ensuring the freshest homemade dishes and pasta. The eatery is popular with Moscow power players and politicians.

AFTER 5
Bon
Philippe Starck’s design touch in Bon pays homage to vice and Russian opulence — think thrones, graffiti, candelabras and Kalashnikov lamps. Chef Fabio Testa’s Italian fare complements a long list of inventive cocktails before the after-hours nightclub atmosphere comes alive.

Noor Cocktail Bar
See and be seen at Noor Bar, Moscow’s after-5 mainstay with a European flair. Located on Tverskaya, find expats, travelers and locals socializing after work over cocktails with a modern twist and enjoying live music. The bar is known for malt whiskey.

Red Square
Known not only as the heart and soul of Moscow but also of Russia as a whole, Red Square is a historical center not to be missed. When the working day is done, visit the area for a taste of the fascinating architecture of sites like St. Basil’s Cathedral, the Kremlin Wall and the Lenin Mausoleum.

RESOURCES
For more information, visit moscow.ru