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20 Pros and Cons of Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

Jordon Layne

Founder of Luxwisp – Protector of the wallet. (Don’t tell anyone it is in my pocket) – Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences

The pros of the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program include receiving timely safety, security updates for destinations, and free enrollment for travelers. It connects individuals with U.S. Embassies, offers pre-departure destination information, and sends safety updates.

The cons of the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program are unavailability in every location, creating potential gaps in assistance. Lengthy waits for enrollment appointments lead to longer lines, frustrating travelers seeking timely support.

• STEP offers real-time security updates and emergency support, enhancing traveler safety.
• Privacy concerns and cumbersome re-enrollment for frequent travelers are notable cons.
• Registration is quick, free, and beneficial for U.S. citizens in unstable regions.
• The program does not replace valid identification nor cover all emergency situations.

Table of Contents

Pros of Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

• Enhanced Communication with U.S. Embassies : Enrolling in STEP facilitates direct communication between travelers and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. This connection is crucial, especially in emergencies such as natural disasters or civil unrest, ensuring that travelers can receive assistance and guidance when it matters most.
• Access to Timely Safety and Security Information : Travelers receive up-to-date safety and security information about their destination countries, helping them to avoid dangerous areas or situations. This information is invaluable for making informed decisions about travel plans, contributing to a safer travel experience.
• Assistance in Emergencies : STEP enrollment helps the U.S. Embassy contact travelers in case of an emergency, including situations where there is a need for immediate evacuation. This can be life-saving in scenarios where every moment counts, such as during natural disasters or political upheaval.
• Facilitates Contact by Family and Friends During Emergencies : In cases where family members need to reach travelers urgently due to emergencies back home, the STEP program makes this possible. It provides a reliable way for loved ones to find and communicate with travelers when it’s needed the most.
• Receives Regular Security Updates : Enrollees benefit from receiving the latest security updates and travel advisories from the U.S. Embassy, keeping them informed about any potential threats or changes in the security situation of their destination country.
• Free Service Offering Peace of Mind : The fact that STEP is a free service makes it accessible to all U.S. travelers abroad, offering peace of mind without additional financial burden. Knowing that the government has a direct line to assist them in emergencies is reassuring for many travelers.
• Privacy Protection : The program ensures that any personal information shared during the enrollment process is protected against unauthorized disclosure, respecting the privacy of travelers. This commitment to privacy safeguards individuals’ personal data while still providing them with critical support services.
• Support During Crisis Situations : STEP provides invaluable support during crisis situations, offering guidance and information that can help travelers navigate through difficult times. Whether it’s a pandemic, terrorist attack, or natural disaster, enrolled travelers have access to resources and support.
• Enhances Overall Travel Safety : By enrolling in STEP, travelers contribute to their overall safety during international travel. The program’s benefits, from emergency assistance to timely alerts, work together to create a safer environment for U.S. citizens abroad.
• Streamlines the Information Exchange Process : The information exchange facilitated by STEP between travelers and U.S. Embassies or Consulates streamlines the communication process, ensuring that travelers can quickly and efficiently receive assistance and information.

Cons of Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

• Limited Availability in Some Regions : Despite its extensive network, STEP’s effectiveness can be limited in regions where U.S. Embassy presence is minimal or in countries with strained diplomatic relations. This limitation could affect the program’s ability to provide timely assistance in certain areas.
• Potential for Longer Lines and Wait Times : The popularity of the STEP program can lead to longer lines and wait times at U.S. Embassies and Consulates, especially during peak travel seasons or in the aftermath of an emergency, which can be frustrating for travelers seeking immediate assistance.
• Lengthy Enrollment Process : Some travelers may find the enrollment process to be lengthy and cumbersome, particularly when planning trips on short notice. The need to provide detailed travel plans and personal information can be seen as an inconvenience.
• Overreliance on U.S. Government Assistance : There’s a risk that travelers may become overly reliant on the U.S. government for assistance, potentially neglecting to take personal responsibility for their safety and security. This overreliance could lead to complacency in situations where self-awareness and caution are crucial.
• Privacy Concerns Despite Assurances : Even with strong assurances of privacy protection, some individuals may still have concerns about sharing detailed personal and travel information with the government. These concerns could deter some travelers from enrolling in the program.
• Information Overload : Receiving regular updates and alerts about potential dangers and security situations can sometimes lead to information overload, causing unnecessary worry or panic among travelers. This can detract from the enjoyment of their travel experience.
• Uneven Quality of Information : The quality and detail of the safety and security information provided can vary significantly depending on the specific U.S. Embassy or Consulate. This inconsistency can lead to situations where travelers are not as well-informed as they should be.
• Dependence on Technological Access : The effectiveness of STEP heavily relies on travelers having consistent access to technology and internet connectivity to receive updates and alerts. In regions with limited connectivity, this can be a significant drawback.
• Potential Delays in Emergency Response : Although the program aims to provide timely assistance, there can be delays in emergency response times due to high demand or logistical challenges in certain countries. This can be critical in situations where immediate help is needed.
• Perceived Lack of Personal Touch : Some travelers may feel that the program lacks a personal touch, with communication and assistance being somewhat standardized and impersonal. This perception could affect the overall satisfaction with the support received during travel.

Understanding STEP

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), a complimentary service offered by the U.S. Department of State, empowers U.S. citizens and nationals traveling abroad by enabling them to register their trips with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. This registration facilitates the receipt of crucial safety information, including travel warnings, alerts, and emergency messages directly from the U.S. government, ensuring travelers are well-informed about their destinations’ current situations and potential risks.

STEP’s primary function is to enhance the safety and security of Americans abroad by establishing a line of communication. It is instrumental during emergencies, allowing the U.S. government to locate and assist its citizens more efficiently. Moreover, it reassures travelers, providing peace of mind by knowing that they have an added layer of support while away from home.

Contrary to misconceptions, STEP is not a tracking device. It serves as a critical tool for consular assistance and staying informed. The registration process itself is straightforward, requiring minimal time, and is offered at no cost, making it an accessible and practical option for all U.S. travelers seeking to ensure their safety and access to essential services while overseas.

Pros of Enrollment

Enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) offers numerous advantages, including timely security updates and essential support during emergencies abroad. By joining STEP, travelers receive real-time security notifications from the nearest U.S. consulate, ensuring they are well-informed of any evolving situations that could impact their safety. This constant stream of information acts much like travel insurance for emergencies, offering not just peace of mind but a practical resource for navigating unforeseen challenges.

Moreover, STEP facilitates quick access to assistance from the local U.S. embassy during crises. This connection can be crucial for travelers caught in natural disasters, political unrest, or other emergencies, enhancing their safety and well-being. The program is especially recommended for those traveling to areas known for political instability or violence, providing a reliable source of help and information.

Furthermore, STEP is particularly valuable for minorities and individuals embarking on extended travels to regions with limited Wi-Fi access. It ensures these travelers can stay informed and receive support regardless of their location or the local internet infrastructure. In essence, enrolling in STEP equips travelers with a comprehensive tool for managing risks and accessing assistance when it’s most needed.

Cons of Enrollment

While the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) offers significant benefits to travelers, it is not without its drawbacks. One notable limitation is that enrollment in STEP does not serve as a valid form of identification in foreign countries. This can lead to misunderstandings or complications, especially in situations where proof of identity is crucial.

Additionally, the requirement for re-enrollment with each new destination can be cumbersome for frequent travelers, making the process seem less convenient than initially perceived.

Privacy concerns also arise with STEP enrollment, as it necessitates sharing personal information, including contact details and travel plans. This aspect of the program may leave some individuals feeling uneasy about the potential for data misuse or breaches.

Moreover, while STEP aims to assist in emergencies, its scope of support has limitations and may not extend to all types of emergency situations, leaving travelers in need of additional resources.

Safety Updates Explained

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) offers a critical service to travelers by providing safety updates, including real-time alerts on various situations like COVID-19 advisories and natural disasters.

However, while these updates offer substantial benefits in terms of preparedness and peace of mind, it is important to examine the limitations concerning the scope of information provided.

This discussion will explore both the advantages of receiving real-time alerts and the potential constraints travelers might face regarding the comprehensiveness of the safety information.

Real-Time Alerts Benefit

Frequently, travelers receive crucial real-time safety updates through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), enhancing their preparedness for various emergencies. This significant benefit of STEP ensures that individuals traveling abroad are not left uninformed about potential risks and safety concerns in their destination countries. By staying updated, travelers can make informed decisions, thereby improving their overall travel experience.

• Receive up-to-date travel warnings, alerts, and emergency notifications.
• Stay informed about COVID-19 updates relevant to your destination.
• Get notified about military drills that could impact travel plans.
• Access disaster tips to enhance safety during natural calamities.
• Benefit from notifications about security situations, allowing for timely adjustments to travel arrangements.

Limitations of Information Scope

Despite the comprehensive nature of safety updates provided through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), certain limitations exist regarding the scope of information these notifications encompass. While STEP alerts include crucial updates on travel warnings, alerts, and emergencies from the U.S. Department of State, including situations like COVID-19 outbreaks, military drills, and natural disasters, they might not cover all potential risks travelers could encounter.

The updates are designed to help travelers stay prepared and enhance their readiness for emergencies while abroad. However, the program’s focus is on major events and situations that have significant implications for large groups of travelers. Consequently, less immediate or localized incidents might not be featured in STEP notifications, which could leave some travelers unaware of all the potential risks during their travels.

STEP Registration Process

Transitioning to the STEP registration process, it is essential to consider both its ease of use and the specific information required from travelers.

The procedure is designed to be straightforward, typically taking less than a minute to complete, underscoring its accessibility for users. However, the necessity to input detailed personal, emergency, and trip-related information raises questions about privacy and the extent of data needed for enrollment.

Ease of Use

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is renowned for its user-friendly registration process, which can be completed in under 10 minutes. This ease of use is a significant advantage for travelers who value efficiency and simplicity when preparing for international travel.

The following points highlight the straightforward nature of the STEP registration process:

• Completion time is less than 10 minutes, ensuring a quick and efficient sign-up.
• Users immediately receive a confirmation email after signing up, providing peace of mind.
• There is no cost to receive notifications, making it a financially accessible option.
• Re-enrollment for different countries is streamlined, also taking less than 10 minutes.
• The process is designed for ease, offering a free service that assists and informs travelers promptly.

Required Information

Moving from the ease of the registration process, it’s important to understand the specific information required for enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).

Primarily, the STEP registration necessitates the submission of personal details alongside emergency contact information. This ensures that travelers can be promptly assisted or contacted in case of emergencies.

Additionally, for the program to be effectively beneficial, each trip or residence abroad demands individual registration. This detail is crucial for receiving timely STEP notifications relevant to the specific location.

Moreover, registrants must select the nearest U.S. consulate to their stay during the sign-up, which remarkably takes less than five minutes. This requirement is pivotal for facilitating efficient communication and assistance from the nearest diplomatic mission.

Who Benefits Most

Certain groups of American citizens stand to gain significantly from enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), especially when their travel plans involve high-risk or unstable areas. The program is designed to enhance the safety and security of Americans abroad by providing vital information and assistance during emergencies.

While the benefits of STEP are extensive, they are particularly impactful for:

• American citizens traveling to high-risk or unstable areas : These travelers are at the forefront of benefiting from STEP due to the heightened risks they face, making the safety updates and consular assistance provided by the program invaluable.
• Individuals embarking on extended trips with limited Wi-Fi access : For these travelers, remaining connected to safety updates and consular services can be challenging, making STEP enrollment a crucial lifeline.
• Minorities traveling to potentially unsafe regions : The tailored safety updates and assistance STEP provides can be especially beneficial in navigating the challenges they may encounter.
• Participants attending major events or conferences : These individuals benefit from real-time security updates that can help them avoid areas of unrest or disruption.
• Travelers seeking quick access to U.S. consular help during emergencies : For anyone facing an emergency abroad, being enrolled in STEP means faster access to potentially life-saving assistance.

Bottom Line Considerations

While STEP offers numerous advantages for American travelers, it is crucial to weigh these against its potential drawbacks for a comprehensive understanding. The program’s provision of safety updates and consular assistance during emergencies is undeniably beneficial, offering travelers peace of mind and support in times of need. The simple and free registration process further enhances its appeal, making it accessible to all travelers seeking to stay informed and prepared during their journeys.

However, the limitations of STEP cannot be overlooked. Issues such as proving identity in foreign countries, the inconvenience of needing to re-enroll when traveling to different destinations, potential privacy concerns related to the collection of personal data, and the restricted assistance for non-US citizens are significant considerations. These drawbacks may deter some individuals from enrolling or fully relying on the program for all their travel safety needs.

In conclusion, the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) presents a multifaceted approach to ensuring the safety and security of travelers. While it offers significant advantages such as real-time updates, emergency assistance, and improved access to consular services, potential enrollees must weigh these benefits against the drawbacks, including privacy concerns and limitations in assistance.

Ultimately, the decision to enroll in STEP should be informed by a careful consideration of both its merits and limitations, tailored to individual travel needs and circumstances.

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Smart Traveler Enrollment Program: A Free Tool for Safer Travel Abroad

Everyone wants to be a smarter – and safer – traveler. Fortunately, the U.S. State Department has made smart, safe travel easy with its  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program , or STEP.

The STEP Travel Program is one of the best ways to stay abreast of security and safety issues in the countries where you travel. It works for two big reasons:

1)    It leverages the power and reach of the State Department’s network of embassies and consulates around the world; and

2)    It’s free.

Travel Smarter tm with travel insurance from Generali Global Assistance

STEP was set up to protect the interests and lives of U.S. citizens when they travel abroad, and notify them of things that may put them in danger or alter their travel plans. 

How to sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program

You subscribe to the STEP travel program online , by providing your full name and email, and the countries you plan to visit. If you’re currently traveling, you can sign up for email alerts and updates pertaining to your itinerary.

You can also download the free Smart Traveler app from iTunes or Google Play , and use that to sign up and get alerts.

The one thing you need to remember about STEP is that it works on a per-trip basis. You need to sign up for each international trip you take.

5 reasons to use the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program

• STEP can provide information about your destinations before you leave. You aren’t likely to cancel your trip just because the State Department sends you a security bulletin, but it never hurts to be more informed.
• STEP can send you safety updates.  You’re probably not paying rapt attention to the news headlines when you’re traveling. You may not know if you’re heading into political unrest, violence, or natural disasters. STEP alerts you of these issues. And what could be better than having the State Department feeding you the latest travel information? Also read:  The 6 Top Travel Emergencies and How To Deal With Them
• STEP can help with evacuation.  When a crisis strikes, you’ll discover STEP’s real value. STEP will provide notifications of a pending natural disaster or emergency in your area, and send you evacuation information once a disaster hits. In addition, registering for STEP makes it easier for the State Department to find you, and get you the help you need – up to and including evacuation. In addition, STEP can make it easier for you to get to nearest U.S. embassy or consulate if you need help. Also read:  How Travel Insurance Can Help with Medical Evacuation and Repatriation
• STEP makes it easier to contact you if a family emergency arises back home.  There are two groups you need to worry about when you travel: You and your traveling companions, and then the folks back home. If disaster strikes back home, natural or otherwise, STEP can get in touch with you and help expedite your return home.
• STEP makes it easier for you to contact a local embassy or consulate. Even in a case of something as simple as getting lost in a city and being unable to find your way back to your hotel, STEP can help, either by giving directions or pointing you towards mass transit, a cab or an Uber.

Get more Tips to Travel Smarter Wherever You Go

You can see the real-world benefits of the STEP trave program once you’re out on the road. Suppose you’re in Paris and there’s a protest scheduled for that day that shuts down a lot of the city. STEP alerts you and you adjust your plans for the day.

Or suppose you’re traveling in Antarctica and you get a message that a relative is severely ill.  STEP can inform you of what’s going on and help you get in touch with the nearest embassy and consulate to arrange transportation back home.

One of the best things about STEP is how well it works with travel insurance . Consider the previous example. If a sick family member is one of the covered reasons for trip cancellation in your travel insurance plan, the insurance company can help cover the cost your trip back home , and STEP can inform you of the issue and guide you to the nearest embassy to start the return-home process.

Remember: You need to sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for each international trip you take.

But if you can remember that, the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program will be a big step forward in travel safety for you and your traveling companions. Just don’t forget to pair it with travel insurance !

Also read:  How Travel Insurance Helps When You’re Sick and Stuck Abroad

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STEP: What It Is and How to Enroll

By Amanda Wowk

November 01, 2023

Travel Tips

In a recent TripIt survey , more than half of Americans ranked personal safety and well-being as their top priority when booking a trip. And during times of heightened tensions around the world, being informed about your destinations—including their levels of safety—can help you enjoy your trip as planned. 

Americans have myriad resources available to help them to stay safe when traveling abroad; registering for the U.S. Department of State’s STEP program is one of them. If you’re unfamiliar with the program and its benefits, I’ve outlined both below—as well as shared my own experience with STEP on a recent international trip. 

What is STEP?

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, or STEP, is a free service for Americans (U.S. citizens and nationals) to register a trip or move abroad with the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Americans can enroll in the program by creating an account on the U.S. Department of State’s dedicated website and completing a profile. During enrollment, you’ll provide the details of your trip(s), including the address(es) of where you’ll be staying while abroad.

Once you’ve registered, you can log in to add upcoming travel plans and keep your profile (e.g., contact information) up to date. 

Why should American travelers enroll in STEP?

Enrolling in STEP offers travelers two primary benefits: (1) local U.S. Embassy and Consular personnel know where to find you if an emergency situation arises, and (2) you receive pertinent alerts, such as demonstration and security alerts, updates to travel advisory levels, and flight departure/evacuation information. 

On my recent trip to Türkiye, I experienced receiving some of these alerts for the first time. Since I had added the details of my trip to my STEP account, I received notifications (both ahead of and during my trip) about demonstrations that would be taking place throughout the country, when they’d be taking place, as well as guidance for how to stay safe in light of these events. If I needed assistance, I knew where to find the nearest U.S. Embassy and Consulate locations as they were listed in the body of the emails. 

Tip: TripIt Pro’s International Travel Tools feature displays embassy information, as well as other country-specific information for travelers headed abroad. 

During my trip, I also received the Department of State’s Worldwide Caution alert advising U.S. citizens overseas to exercise increased caution—regardless of their current location. ( More on what this means for travelers here. )

Receiving these alerts heightened my vigilance—especially as a solo traveler —and helped me make informed decisions during my trip. 

What else can travelers do to stay safe while traveling? 

Registering for STEP is just one tool in your safety toolkit. Below are some additional tips and resources you can use to stay safe while traveling.  

1. Consult TripIt’s Neighborhood Safety Scores

TripIt’s Neighborhood Safety Scores , powered by GeoSure , will show you the level of safety for the neighborhoods  you’re visiting. You can access  hyperlocal safety ratings  for myriad categories along any point within your TripIt itinerary for more than 65,000 cities and neighborhoods, including scores for overall safety, health and medical, physical harm, women’s safety, political freedoms, theft, and LGBTQ safety. 

You can also set a personal risk level within the Neighborhood Safety Scores feature. When you set your personal risk level, TripIt will flag any plan with a safety score that’s above your threshold. For instance, if you’ve booked a dinner reservation in an unknown neighborhood, you can check the TripIt app to see if that area is above your risk level at night. Armed with this information, you might opt to take a cab there instead of walking.

"Do your homework,” said Michael Becker, CEO of GeoSure. “Know the safety of where your hotel is located and its immediate vicinity; know where—and how safe—the meeting locations in your TripIt itinerary are. Whether it’s work meetings, dinners, concerts or events, or something else—know the area and what safety looks like at those locations.”

2. Share your travel plans with someone back home 

“I always give someone back home like my mom or a good friend our itinerary in case of an emergency so they know where to reach us, where we should be, and when we are expected to be home,” said Kamree Price , family travel expert and founder of Our Family Passport.

Kendyl Grender , budget-travel hacking coach, also makes sure to share her travel plans with her parents—just in case. 

And one time, that capability was particularly useful: “I was in Germany in March 2020—the early days of COVID—and my mom couldn’t get ahold of me. But thanks to TripIt, she could see on my itinerary where I was staying, and was able to call the inn directly to get in touch with me.” 

3. Trust your instincts  

"Listen to your gut,” said Peter Shankman , founder, author, and serial entrepreneur. “More than anything else—more than personal protection devices, more than security cameras—the simple act of listening to your gut will save you time and time again. Always trust your instincts."

Check out more traveler safety resources, including safety tips from travel experts , the safest cities for women travelers and LGBTQ+ travelers , as well as tips for traveling solo . 

• New York, London Claim Top Spots for Thanksgiving 2023 Travel
• The Introvert's Guide to Traveling With Others

About the Author

Amanda Wowk

Amanda Wowk is a freelance writer, founder of Amanda Wowk Creative — a content writing services company — and avid traveler. Her experience spans the travel industry, supporting clients in travel tech, luxury travel, and consumer brands. When she's not helping clients tell their stories, Amanda writes about her own experiences to inspire others to travel as far, wide, and frequently as possible.

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Are you traveling or living outside the U.S.? STEP is a free service that sends you emails with updates from the local U.S. embassy or consulate. If there’s an emergency where you are, it helps us contact you with instructions on what to do.

Why join STEP?

• Get real time updates about health, weather, safety, and security in the country.
• Plan ahead using information from the local U.S. embassy.
• Help the embassy or consulate contact you if there’s an emergency like a natural disaster, civil unrest, or a family emergency.

What kind of messages does STEP send? Currently, STEP sends emails only. STEP can send you several types of information:

• Routine Messages : News and updates about the country you picked.
• Alerts : Messages about short-term security, terrorism, health, weather, or disaster situations that could impact your travels.
• Travel Advisories : We re-evaluate the situation in each country every 6-12 months. Advisories include a simple 1-4 rating system, details about specific risks in the country, and clear steps U.S. citizens should take to stay safe.

Join the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

After you set up your account, you can pick what types of messages you want to get.

Stay in touch during an emergency.  Signing up for STEP helps the U.S. embassy get in touch with you if there’s an emergency. And, if your family or friends in the U.S. can’t reach you with urgent news while you’re traveling, we can use the information in STEP to try and contact you.

Become a Smart Traveler Now!   STEP is an easy first step to being a smart traveler. You should also always research your destination , and consider additional ways to get safety and security information from the U.S. Department of State, like on social media.

Enroll in STEP

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

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Use This Free Service To Feel Safer When Traveling Internationally

When you're preparing for a trip, especially an international one, it's important to prioritize your safety. Ensuring that you're up to date on any suggested vaccines, keeping your travel documents and forms of identification secure, and using anti-theft bags, purses, and clothing are all steps you can take to protect yourself from harm, be it sickness, robbery, or identity theft while traveling . You can also set up travel alerts on your credit cards  as an extra safety step. It's better to hope for the best while still taking precautions for your own safety.

When traveling to a new area, keeping up with current events can be helpful. Knowledge about the political climate of the area you're heading into, as well as insights into what's happening on a local level, are important. With that being said, it's still difficult to have a thorough understanding of where events are unfolding and which spots to avoid. For example, the country might be stable, but protests or demonstrations still occur. It's difficult to gather this information on your own. Luckily though, you don't have to — STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program), can do it for you.

What is STEP?

According to the  STEP website , "The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate." By enrolling, you not only let the U.S. government know about your trip, which in and of itself may bring about peace of mind; you also receive alerts from the U.S. government that share information regarding your safety, be it informing you of political activity in the area you're visiting, or upcoming severe weather.

If anything could potentially impact your safety that you wouldn't necessarily know about, they would inform you. With that being said, you can take an extra step of precaution by having the numbers of the U.S. embassy or consulate. with you. If anything were to happen, you'd be able to immediately contact them, and they would be able to assist you with medical, legal, and financial matters throughout the duration of your stay. They also would be your point of contact if, for example, you lost your passport or had it stolen.

How to enroll

You can enroll in STEP online. You have the option to register a singular trip or create an account. Creating an account is great for those who travel internationally often because it provides the option to modify information rather than re-uploading it every time. If you're traveling as a family, there's no need for everyone to enroll. One person can register the trip and add others as "accompanying travelers." If you're going as a large group, you have the option to first enroll as a group and upload everyone's personal information via a spreadsheet.

Once you're properly enrolled, you'll receive alerts if there's anything that could affect you during your trip. This is what makes STEP unique and especially important — you get alerts regarding the specific region you're in during the timeline of your trip. If you don't enroll, you won't get the alerts since your information is not in the system. So next time you're preparing to venture internationally, don't forget to enroll in STEP.

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How can the embassy or consulate assist me while i am abroad, how do i enroll, why should i create an account, i'm traveling with my family. does each person need to enroll separately, how do i enroll a large group of travelers, it's not working. how can i get technical assistance, can i enroll if i'm a u.s. legal permanent resident (green card holder), where do i enroll my trip to the usa, how can i learn more about the country (or countries) where i will be traveling, what is the difference between a travel advisory and an alert, where can i find all department of state travel advisories, i enrolled a trip, but did not create an account. now my plans have changed. how can i modify my information, if i don't enroll, but i need assistance while i am traveling, will the embassy still help me, i already subscribed to receive travel advisories by email. why do i *also* need to enroll my specific travel plans in step, i cannot see the privacy act information and i am receiving an error message stating that i have not read and agreed to the privacy act information. how can i fix this.

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Consider Enrolling In the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) Before your Next Overseas Trip

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, STEP, gives you essential safety information and conditions directly from the Embassy. The Embassy can contact you in any natural disaster or family emergency. And lastly, STEP can help your family get in touch with you in case of an emergency at home.

The Manual ~ Traveling should be an adventure — and if your safety is in question when traveling abroad, those adventures might have to come to an abrupt halt. While most international travelers are familiar with programs like TSA Precheck and TSA Global Entry, there’s a third United States government program that helps Americans traveling out of the country called the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). If you’re abroad and the unthinkable happens — injury, illness, a lost passport, or even a global emergency — it’s one step you’ll be glad you took.

How to register for STEP

Getting started with STEP is easy. Setting up an account takes about five minutes, and registering a trip takes about one minute.

Here’s how it works:

Create your account: On the STEP website, create an account and input your personal details along with emergency contacts.

Register your trip: Log in and register each specific trip or residence abroad.

That’s it. This minimal investment of time will pay off when you find yourself in need of urgent assistance while traveling abroad". ~ The Manual .

Source: www.themanual.com/travel/tsa step program travel abroad

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Fantastic Support on a Variety of Trips!

I have used Steppes a number of times over the years for visits to Africa (Botswana, Namibia, and then Tanzania) as well as Iceland. The experience each time was excellent. Last year, I used a different travel firm (recommended by a friend as having speciality with the area we were visiting) to help me with a trip to Italy and found myself hugely disappointed with their support. I have returned to Steppes and will use them so long as they work in the areas where I want to go! My most recent experience concluded just last week. My husband and I traveled to Singapore and Steppes was incredibly helpful with (1) Our Singapore arrangements (hotel opinions/reservations, trips to and from the airport, and a fantastic walking tour guide); and (2) Suggestion of an Indonesian island excursion to Bawah Reserve, which was OUTSTANDING. We had the perfect mix of a city experience followed by a luxurious beach/nature excursion. I cannot say enough good things about this trip. It really has revived my interest in international travel and reaffirmed my belief in Steppes as a great partner for that travel.

Date of experience : March 15, 2024

Reply from Steppes Travel

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your wonderful experience. We’re delighted to hear that your recent trip to Singapore exceeded your expectations and we’re thrilled to have been able to revive your interest in international travel. We look forward to helping you create many more unforgettable adventures in the future.

Excellent support with our South Africa trip

Steppes helped our family with a special trip to South Africa. Illona was a constant guide, knowledgeable about the area and came up with some great suggestions. The places we stayed were superb and the organisation was seamless. I would not hesitate to recommend Illona for anyone looking for a trip to the Cape.

Date of experience : January 19, 2024

Hi Colin, we're delighted to hear how Illona created you a special trip to South Africa. We hope to help you with your Beautiful Adventures again in the future.

Trustworthy agency

Rachael looked after us beyond belief. We had been scammed out of a very expensive holiday by another agency . Rachael on behalf of Steppes absolutely saved the day in actually a day!! 24 hours exactly !! She calmed my anxiety and gave me 3 options for an even better holiday resort... We were to fly out 3 days later and I was really in a panic. The resort she recommended was fabulous and Steppes contacted the director of the resort ( Anantara veli) who looked after us handsomely. The resort organised my sons wedding in less then a week. !! For a smooth , trustworthy travel agency with wonderful service and quality destinations I would highly advise a phone call to Steppes ( Uk) ..

Date of experience : January 15, 2024

Hi Mary, we're thrilled to hear how Rachael took care of you. We're delighted to have played a part in making your holiday and son's wedding unforgettable. Your recommendation is truly appreciated. Thank you for choosing Steppes and we hope to help you create your next Beautiful Adventure in the future.

Good quality service with excellent itineraries.

Steppes travel provide good quality service and are excellent at listening and tailoring itineraries to the client’s needs. Would thoroughly recommend them.

Date of experience : February 22, 2024

Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We're so glad to hear we've provided a high quality service for you and that you'd recommend us.

Christmas in Tanzania …

Christmas in Tanzania & we had no idea which lodges to choose, but Steppes knew exactly what we’d like ( we’ve traveled with them several times before ) It had to amuse an active 15yr old chap & two oldies and Steppes fulfilled our brief amazingly. Two heavenly safaris in utterly different styles of lodges, one more old fashioned ( Selous) and the other super new & chic ( Rufigi) Wouldn’t travel with anyone else

Date of experience : December 30, 2022

Great First trip with Steppes

We travelled to India for the first time with Steppes. Charlie Lawton, an India expert, arranged the perfect holiday for us, she listened to what we wanted to do and see and tailor made the trip for us. We had a very good experience from the moment we were met off the plane and whisked through immigration and customs to our guide in Delhi. We had excellent accommodation at all the places we visited. Great guides and drivers. We were never hassled on the streets. We saw and experienced a good window on both urban and country life Our only problem was that we had greater expectations for the game drives we went on but we still had a wonderful experience, and no tummy problems. Charlie answered all our rather niggly doubts and gave us very good advice. We would not hesitate to recommend Steppes to tailor making the perfect holiday for you.

Date of experience : November 20, 2023

Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us. We're so pleased to hear that Charlie created the perfect holiday for you and that you wouldn't hesitate to recommend us. We hope to help you create your next Beautiful Adventure soon.

Excellent service and knowledgeable travel advice

This summer we had the most perfect holiday thanks to Steppes Travel. It had been a dream of many years to take the family on Safari but I had no idea where to start. From my first phone call, Illona and her team understood exactly what would work for us and put together a brilliantly planned itinerary within budget. Every aspect of the holiday was perfect and the company Steppes work with in Tanzania were equally professional, knowledgeable and excellent to be on Safari with. Thank you Steppes, you made a dream come true.

Date of experience : August 19, 2023

Hi Marishelle, thank you for taking the time to share your positive experience with us. We're so pleased to hear that Illona helped you to create your dream safari. We look forward to helping you design your next Beautiful Adventure in the future.

A truly memorable trip from start to finish

Charlotte at Steppes put together a wonderful 10 day trip to India for us. She had thought of everything and provided us with excellent pre-departure advice - took on board that my husband was slightly nervous of picking up a tummy bug and came up with a bespoke adventure. All the hotels were top class, dinners were delicious and all the guides and our driver spoke excellent English and ensured that we had an unforgettable experience. Nothing prepares you for the beauty of the Taj at sunset and sunrise.

Date of experience : November 01, 2023

Hi Linda, thank you so much for taking the time to share your positive experience with us. We're incredibly happy to hear that Charlotte created a wonderful India trip for you. We hope to speak with you again soon.

Highly professional travel advisors providing tailored advice

I really cannot say enough good about Steppes. Their travel experts are highly knowledgable and able to talk about their destinations and recommendations through having visited and experienced the location/property. They work hard to understand what their clients are looking for and aim to tailor the vacation to meet those goals. They are full of interesting ideas for vacations.I have now used them on five occasions visiting different parts of the world. I have been extremely happy with each of these vacations. They always take to time after getting back to discuss the experience and to understand what worked and whether there were areas that could have been improved. I will continue to use them in the future.

Date of experience : November 09, 2023

Hi Phil, thank you for taking the time to share your positive experience. It's incredible to hear that you've been happy with each of your holidays with us. We look forward to helping you realise your future travel plans.

Every time I book a 'Big Trip' I always use Steppes

Every time I book a 'Big Trip' I always go back to Steppes. Their service, knowledge and care is always exemplary and something I've rarely found elsewhere. My plans are always slightly mad so their advice on what's sensible and possible has always been valued (especially in hindsight!) and their ability to save the day on the odd occasion things have gone wrong is another reason to use them. Brilliant across the board - This last trip to Svalbard on the Polar Pioneer was one of the greatest things I've ever done.

Date of experience : June 25, 2023

Excellent holiday to Dubai

Steppes helped us plan and prepare the most amazing trip to Dubai. Their customer service was excellent. They listened to our requirements, factored in our budget and took care of all the extra details to ensure it went so smoothly. The hotel selected was perfect our group and we had a fabulous holiday - thanks Steppes.

Date of experience : January 22, 2023

First class recommendations and service throughout

Friends recommended Steppes to us and they couldn’t have been more helpful arranging our family holiday to Australia. We were visiting family in Sydney and Clare recommended exploring the south of the country which wasn’t our original plan. We are so pleased she persuaded us. Kangaroo island was incredible and camping out under the stars in the flinders ranges a definite highlight for us all. It was a magical holiday and we will definitely seek the help of Steppes when planning our next adventure.

Date of experience : June 30, 2023

Unforgettable trip to Costa Rica

John and the team at Steppes went out of their way to curate an unforgettable trip to Costa Rica for our family. From the rainforest to seeing the turtles in Tortuguero, every detail was expertly planned. I look forward to travelling again with you soon.

Date of experience : March 18, 2023

Steppes Travel provided a unique and memorable holiday

Steppes Travel provided a unique and totally amazing holiday experience for us, their attention to detail was excellent & everything ran smoothly and efficiently. The hotels and trips were outstanding. They listened to what holiday experience we wanted and they most certainly delivered we didn't waste a minute on the holiday it was packed full of fun & wonderful photo opportunities. They made our dreams come true.

Date of experience : May 15, 2023

Great Service & Communication

We had alot of questions and tasks to take care of before our travels. Illona and her team were always there to answer in a most timely manner. We have a wonderful trip. One small problem was completely taken care of with the utmost urgency. Highly recommend Steppes.

Date of experience : June 21, 2023

The best travel company we have ever used

We have used Steppes Travel on a number of occasions and once again they have come up trumps with a great itinerary for our trip to Chile, Easter Island and New Zealand. Their staff are all very friendly, helpful and very knowledgeable about their destinations. Their attention to detail is excellent ensuring that your trip is tailor made to your own requirements. I have no hesitation in recommending them, you wont regret it!

Date of experience : August 23, 2023

How Steppes Travel treated a loyal customer

I booked the Brazil - Jaguar and Maned Wolf Conservation group tour on 25th September 2019. I was not kept fully informed of new dates and cancellations by other clients during Pandemic postponements. On 16th June 2022 I paid the balance to travel on 6th September 2022. On the 27th July an agent phoned and said there was no one to share. My single room request was missed, so I must pay £1250 by 10th August, I was not offered an alternative. An invoice was emailed and I replied, ‘I am not best pleased’ and cancelled an unrequested tour, then received an invoice for £1200. Meanwhile I researched and emailed asking for my money back with a link to ABTA. She phoned immediately and repeatedly refused my requests for a refund. I confirmed my request via email and stated Steppes must not phone as I felt intimidated by the call. The following day I received an invoice with the charge removed, I replied asking for a full refund. This was followed by another unpleasant call. A manger emailed repeatedly saying I was not entitled to a refund as they were not charging me for anything but I could cancel and lose my money. Steppes continued to call, then I received numerous calls in just over an hour from an unknown mobile. After blocking that number, a director emailed and said he had been phoning re my booking made in MAY 2021, my booking was made 20 months earlier. Apparently, I am not entitled to a full refund as under the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018, they are not allowed to impose the charge for a single supplement as it is not a significant change and the charge was a mistake. I was advised that it was a significant change and as it was more than 10% of the cost I was entitled to a full refund. To safeguard most of my money, I accepted a refund minus £725 for their expenses. I have lost money on car parking, insurance etc. If in doubt check the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 and Steppes Terms and Conditions, then book with their competitors.

Date of experience : August 14, 2022

We haven’t been yet

We haven’t been yet! However to date we could not have had a better experience with planning our holiday and all our many holidays through Steppes have been organised brilliantly with great attention to detail !

Date of experience : August 31, 2023

Our second book and again great service

This was the second time booking with Steppes Travel and they were once again fantastic. Very professional advising on our trip to Kenya. Highly recommend the team at Steppes Travel

Date of experience : October 06, 2023

Thank you for taking the time to share your positive experience; we're so pleased to hear you had a fantastic trip to Kenya.

The travel agent helped us identify…

The travel agent helped us identify where to travel at the time we had vacation and arranged in-country accommodations, guides and transfers. The level of service is incredible and made for one of the best vacations we've had

Date of experience : November 24, 2022

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Moscow Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + More [2023]

· everything to know about visiting moscow, including the best things to do and how to get around. ·.

Moscow is Russia’s vibrant capital city, and it also happens to be the largest city in all of Europe. The city’s long and infamous history makes it one of the most unique places we have ever visited.

The architecture ranges from centuries-old palaces to uniform, gray concrete buildings. The people range from cold and private to warm and welcoming. Moscow is a city is strong juxtapositions, and we learned a lot during our time there.

This post will break down all you need to know about visiting Moscow, including the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more.

The Best Things to Do in Moscow

1. explore the red square.

The Red Square is the heart of Moscow. Most of the city’s top attractions can be found here, including just about everything on this list. The Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin’s Mausoleum are all located here, and the State Historical Museum and GUM are not far from here, either.

The Red Square is a common home for parades, protests, and seasonal celebrations. There are massive Christmas celebrations here, with food vendors and carnival rides set up in numbers.

2. Check Out the Ziferblat

The Ziferblat is a café in Moscow that is unlike any café we have ever been to. While most cafes charge you for your drinks and food, the Ziferblat charges you for your time.

Upon arrival, you are given a clock. When you leave, the barista calculates how much time you spent in the café and charges you accordingly. This concept was created to help visitors to be more intentional with their time, and the cafe itself is incredibly charming.

For a detailed look at everything you need to know before you visit, make sure you read my post about visiting the Ziferblat Cafe in Moscow .

3. Marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral

St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil’s Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style. The church is of the Russian Orthodox faith, and the inside is just as wondrous as the outside.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is located on the edge of the Red Square, making it incredibly convenient to visit. Entrance for non-worshippers costs 800 rubles, and tickets can be bought at the church

4. Explore the Kremlin

The Kremlin is the largest active fortress in Europe, and it is the site of most of Russia’s government affairs. In addition to government buildings, the Kremlin Complex is filled with courtyards, towers, and museums that are open to the public. If you have the time, you could spend a couple of days fully exploring all that there is to see in the Kremlin.

5. Walk Through Lenin’s Mausoleum

Vladimir Lenin is one of the most important figures in Russian history, and his body is located perfectly embalmed in a mausoleum in the Red Square. The Mausoleum is open to the public to visit, and as long as you are willing to go through a few security checks, it is easily one of the best things to do in Moscow. Its convenient location in the Red Square makes it a can’t miss attraction.

There is absolutely no photography allowed inside the Mausoleum. Do not test this rule.

6. Wander Along Arbat Street

The Arbat is a very popular street in Moscow that is lined with stores, cafes, and other touristy attractions. It is one of the oldest streets in the city, dating back to the 1400s. This street is both quaint and trendy, and there are many walking tours that introduce tourists to the neighborhood’s wonders and highlights.

7. Catch a Show at the Bolshoi Theatre

As a lover of the arts, it is hard to think of Moscow and not think of ballet. Russia has always been a top dog in the world of fine arts, and Bolshoi Theater is one of the best places to catch a performance. We were lucky enough to attend an Opera here, and it is a venue that you don’t want to miss out on if you enjoy opera, ballet, or orchestral performances.

8. Visit the State Historical Museum

The State Historical Museum is one of the most respected museums in Moscow. Despite its name, it is not really focused on the history of Russia as a nation. Rather, it contains a collection of artifacts from all throughout Russia’s history.

The museum’s collection is very broad in nature. It houses some items from indigenous tribes that used to occupy the region, pieces collected by the Romanov family, and more.

9. Wander Around GUM

GUM is an absolutely massive mall within walking distance of the Red Square. It isn’t just the size that draws visitors here; it’s the sense of luxury. The mall is so beautiful inside, much like the metro stations.

While visiting a mall might not sound like it belongs on a bucket list, this mall does. You will not want to miss out on visiting GUM while in Moscow.

10. Admire the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

While St. Basil’s Cathedral is the most iconic church in Moscow, it isn’t the only one. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is absolutely stunning, with massive golden domes. It is the tallest Orthodox church in the world, and it is the seat of the Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow.

It is located just about a mile from the Red Square, just south of the Kremlin Complex. You can walk to it from the Red Square in about 20 minutes.

How to Get to Moscow

Flying to moscow.

Moscow has three major international airports: Sheremetyevo (SVO) , Domodedovo (DMO) , and Vnukovo (VKO) . All three of them are directly connected to downtown Moscow by the Aeroexpress trains, which leave every 30 minutes throughout the day. By Aeroexpress train, you can expect to get to the city center in 25-45 minutes depending on the airport that you fly into.

Sheremetyevo is the biggest and busiest of the three airports, and it is the one you are most likely to fly into – especially if you are coming from outside of Europe or the Caucus region. We flew into Sheremetyevo on a direct flight from New York City.

I usually provide backup airport options, because flying right into the city isn’t always the cheapest way to get where you’re going. Unfortunately, when it comes to Moscow, don’t really have a choice other than to fly right into Moscow. It is a very remote city, and it is usually the cheapest place to fly into in Russia as a whole.

Since Sheremetyevo is so busy, you will probably find a great flight option anyway. I wrote in  my post about finding cheap flights  that using hub airports will lead to more affordable airfare, and the same logic applies here. Even though Russia’s national airline, Aeroflot, is no longer a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, Moscow is still a major hub connecting passengers from all over the world.

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Train or Bus to Moscow

Trains and buses are one of the most popular ways to get around Europe. However, they’re of very little use when you’re trying to get to Moscow.

Moscow is hundreds of miles from the nearest major cities. The only major European city that can even be reached within 8 hours on the ground is St. Petersburg, and even the Baltic capitals of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn are over 12 hours away.

If you want to get to Moscow, the best option is almost always to fly. While the train routes to Moscow are scenic, they simply take forever.

How to Get Around Moscow

METRO | TROLLEYS | TRAMS | BUSES

Moscow has one of the most memorable metro systems in the world. Its metro lines are very deep underground, and the stations are absolutely stunning. Each station has its own unique style, but all of them contain escalators that seem to go on forever.

The system was built in an effort to showcase the power of the Soviet Union and its bright future. The plans were a form of propaganda, but they resulted in what is still one of the most visually appealing subway systems on earth.

Moscow’s metro system isn’t just pretty. It is also very useful and accessible. The system has 17 lines that connect the city and its surrounding area.

But wait; there’s more!

The Moscow metro system is also incredibly affordable, with each ride costing less than a dollar. The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow, as it is almost impossible to beat the connection times and the low cost to ride.

Tickets can be bought at electronic, English-speaking kiosks in stations, or directly from ticket counters at certain larger stations. There are also day passes available, which are a very solid option if you plan on riding the metro several times per day.

The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow.

In addition to the metro system, Moscow also has a network of buses, trams, and trolleys. This system is nowhere near as convenient or well-connected as the metro, though, and is likely of little use to you during your trip. There is no Uber in Moscow, but a similar app named Yandex is available if you need a ride in a pinch.

How Many Days Do You Need in Moscow?

Moscow is the biggest city in all of Europe, and it is absolutely loaded with things to do. You could spend weeks in Moscow and still find new things to do. Of course, most travelers don’t have that kind of time to spend in one place!

I recommend spending no less than three full days in Moscow, and ideally closer to five or seven.

Moscow is very spread out, and it can take some time to get from one major point to another. There are also so many places that are nice to just sit back and relax, which is hard to do when you’re in a hurry trying to cram activities into just a few days.

If you only have a week to visit Russia, I’d advise spending all of the time in one city. If you decide to split your time between Moscow and St. Petersburg, I recommend not trying to squeeze in any day trips beyond those two cities.

When Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Moscow?

There are two different ways to approach this question. Personally, I think the best time to visit Moscow is around Christmas and New Year’s Day. While the weather will be absolutely freezing, Moscow is a surreal winter wonderland in December and January.

We were in Moscow right before Christmas. While it was very cold, you can always bundle up. Exploring the Christmas markets and pop-up ice skating rinks throughout Moscow is one of my favorite memories from anywhere I’ve traveled, and I dream of going back to do it again.

If you aren’t fond of the cold, Moscow is beautiful in the summer. It tends to get pretty cold in the shoulder seasons, so if you want warm weather, you should plan to visit in the summer. Moscow actually gets pretty warm in July and August, and there are a bunch of fantastic places to soak up the sun within the city.

The best time to visit Moscow is either around Christmas or from late May to August.

Is Moscow Safe to Visit?

While Moscow is a truly wonderful city, there’s no denying that visiting Russia comes with risks. As the country is run by an infamous communist dictator, concerns about visiting are valid. While we didn’t experience any sort of threat or negative treatment during our time in Moscow, we visited in a peaceful time.

In our experience, Russia doesn’t seem to detain normal Americans or Westerners to use as pawns. As a regular person, as long as you don’t commit any crimes, there is a slim chance you will run into any issues. However, Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

To make matters worse, Russia has a bad reputation for gang violence. While the Russian mafia has very little interest in normal Western tourists, they won’t hesitate to pick a fight with anyone who ventures into their sphere of influence. If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

Finally, since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, things are all very different. Russia is currently at war, and there are battles raging within 8 hours of Moscow. While it is still relatively safe to visit, that could change at any time as the war with Ukraine continues.

Is Moscow Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, Moscow is worth visiting. It is one of the most unique major cities we have ever visited, and we hope to make it back one day. The Russian Orthodox churches are stunning, the city’s history is unlike any other, and the food is to die for.

While many visitors prefer St. Petersburg to Moscow, I think Moscow deserves a lot of hype of its own. Moscow is the beating heart of Russian culture and history, and it’s a place I highly recommend checking out if you have the chance.

That’s all we have for you about Moscow! I hope this post was helpful as you plan your trip to Russia’s capital.

Have you been to Moscow? Or is this your first time visiting? Comment below if you have anything to add to our travel guide!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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17 Exciting Things to do in Moscow

Written By: Linda Voltaire

Updated On: December 21, 2022

Visiting Russia? These are the top 17 things to do in Moscow to help you plan your trip.

If the western world has New York City , the first great metropolis on the eastern side of our planet is Moscow. A huge city with a complicated and impressive history, Moscow gets a bad rep over Russian politics – but that doesn’t make it any less impressive. Capital to the largest country in the world, Moscow takes the grandeur of its standing very seriously.

This is a place where luxury is king and where opulence takes a front seat in every aspect of life. The buildings are grand and imposing, the parks are luscious and enormous, and even the subway stations look different in Moscow than anywhere else in the world.

Table of Contents

Best Things to do in Moscow, Russia

Walking around Moscow is also going through the tumultuous history of the 20th century, which had Russia as one of its main protagonists. There are fascinating remains of these times everywhere in the former Soviet capital, from the gorgeous Seven Sisters skyscrapers to the Orthodox cathedrals that were closed for the better part of a century.  Still, Moscow is also a completely modern city, with a vibrant social and party scene, incredible restaurants, and some of the most luxurious hotels in the world.

After living in Russia’s capital as an ex-pat for four years, I got the privilege to experience not only the main attractions in Moscow but also the everyday life in this huge city and quickly found my sweat spots off the beaten tracks! So here is my list of my top 17 things to do in this exciting metropolis!

Attractions in Moscow

When visiting a famous city like this one, it’s a must to go through the most iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin & Surrounding Area

No place tells the story of Moscow’s power in the past century the way the Red Square does. This is where the biggest political meetings in the USSR occurred for many decades, and you can feel the power on each step.

Here, you’ll also find the historic museum at the entrance, showcasing the decades of history behind this iconic landmark. The Lenin Mausoleum, perhaps the most famous resting place in the world and home to the remains of the former communist leader, is also here.

On one side of the Red Square you’ll find the Kremlin, the fortified complex that now hosts the presidential residence. This is also home to the most iconic of all Moscovite landmarks: St. Basil’s Cathedral, a 16th-century marvel of colors. This is the best spot to take a selfie and show the world you’ve reached the Russian capital!

• Get your Kremlin Skip the Line Tickets and Kremlin tour here.
• Free cancellation up to 24-hours in advance of the tour.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

You can easily spend a couple of days just exploring the Moscovite city centre, and the Bolshoi Theatre should be your second stop. Walk past the Red Square and then head to the nearby Bolshoi Theatre, one of the oldest and most renowned houses of opera and ballet on Earth.

Visit for the impressive early 19th-century architecture, but if you’re seeing a ballet performance, make sure you book between 3 and 6 months in advance! I can strongly recommend this as it is a truly unique experience!

• Book a private 2-hour tour of the legendary Bolshoi Theatre.
• See the presidential box reserved for tzars, watch a rehearsal and skip the lines through a separate entrance.
• Free Cancellation up to 24-hours in advance.

3. Luxury Shopping at GUM and TSUM

While many might think of Moscow as the sad place with the long bread queues from the USSR days, it’s been quite the capitalist haven for a while.

If you’re up for some shopping, you’ll find one of the biggest luxury malls in town, TSUM, right behind the Bolshoi and GUM, at the red square. GUM is the most famous department store in town, where you’ll find luxury everywhere and all high-end brand. 

All in an imposing late 19th-century building with lots of history, worth a visit just for the design, its bridges and the glass roof even though you are not up for shopping!

4. Christ the Savior Cathedral

A newer addition to the gorgeous Moscovite cathedrals and my grandeur neighbor during my years in the city Don’t let the young age of this building fool you. After the perestroika in the early 90s, the newly revived Russian Orthodox Church received permission to build a cathedral on this site. They did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church.

The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes as tall as the skies in bright gold and gorgeous paintings and decor! Bring a shawl to cover your hair to adjust to the local tradition.

Head to the back of the cathedral and you will find one of the most photographed bridges in Moscow, the Patriarshiy Most. This is the perfect spot to get a good view and photo of the cathedral but also to see the Kreml and Gorky Park from a distance. Or why not just enjoy a moment watching the river and its boats!  

• Get around Moscow with ease using the Hop On Hop Off boat and Bus ticket. 24, 48 or 72-hour tickets available.

5. Gorky Park

Cross the river and head to Gorky Park along the Moscow river. The most famous green area in town, similar to New York ’s Central Park and the weekend hangout for locals. There are many beautiful parks in the city, but if you’re only visiting for a few days, this is the unmissable one! 

With fair attractions to entertain children, beautiful artificial lakes and gardens, and lots of outdoor activities, it’s a lovely place to relax. A place of rest in the middle of the metropolis. The area in front of the New Tretyakov Gallery & the Muzeon Park of Arts is actually one of my favorite oasis as a bit more quiet and peaceful than Gorky itself.

Why not spend some time in the museum to get a great tour of Russia’s history through art or just enjoy the art exhibition outside where local artists spend their weekends. 

6. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow is from the Moscow River. There are many stops for the boats and one is just next to Gorky Park. See the city from another perspective – and turn the ride into a romantic one by taking the evening cruise. Moscow is magic during the night.

If you’re looking for a truly luxurious experience, take the Radisson Blu cruise – or the Erwin for a delicious seafood dinner. Both stop at Gorky or at the luxury Radisson Royal Hotel, set in one of the Seven Sister’s skyscrapers.

• We use Get Your Guide when booking city tours and they offer a River Sightseeing Cruise seeing all the main tourist attractions in Moscow

7. Metro Hopping

First inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow subway system is one of the oldest in the world, and certainly the most beautiful. Started under Stalinist times, each metro station is dedicated to grandeur and oozing personality.

Visiting the subway stops is an attraction in and of itself, and Komsomolskaya, Mayakovskaya, Kropotkinskaya are my favorites. Those surrounding the Red Square are also mesmerizing – in general, these are kind of like underground palaces.

Most of the signs at the Moscow Metro now have Latin letters, so it’s very easy to get around!Unfortunately, the trains are not as beautiful and pleasant as the stations but still, this is a true Moscow experience.  Take a guided tour of the 9 most beautiful Metro Stations including the award-winning art deco station. See more details here.

8. Arbatskaya & Artsy Moscow

Novy Arbat Street is one of the most touristy areas in the city, with lots of shops and cafés directed at visitors. When you walk a little beyond, you’ll find a different part of town, where the hip scene thrives because so many artists live in the area. Just follow the small streets with fewer tourists!

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings hosts the main building of the Moscow State University, one of the most prestigious colleges in Russia – and the one with the best view.

Although this is a little outside the city centre, the sight from above is more than worth it, with the nearby fountains and park and then the whole of the city behind them.

10. Russian Market

If you love to visit markets wherever you go, Moscow has one of the most impressive ones in the world – the Izmailovsky. You can easily take the metro here and feel like you’ve been transported to another time.

This place was first built in the 16th century and retains the look of an old fairytale, with a lineup of colorful old castle. A lovely local experience beyond the confines of the bustling metropolis, where you can also try some delicious Russian barbecue.

Here, you’ll find beautiful souvenirs at great prices.

Off The Beaten Track Moscow

Once you’ve covered the most touristic spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer – and the places below will also be full of locals! Moscow is a city for hipsters, full of trendy and arty spots where you can literally feel the creativity oozing! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend my sweat spots below!

11. Patriarshiye Prudy

This is my favorite area in the entire city! While Moscow is generally a very noisy metropolis, Patriarch Ponds is far quieter, yet such a vibrant place. This is a very hip and trendy area making you think you are rather in Paris than in Moscow. Here the streets are narrow and full of chic eateries and clubs to see the local crowd.

A little bohemian and with an air of peace you won’t find anywhere in the city this is a great spot to spend an afternoon with your thoughts.

12. ArtPlay

Barely 15 minutes away from the city center you’ll find the artsiest Moscow district: ArtPlay. For decades, this block was a factory, but it was renovated to become a hub for the arts not too long ago.

Now, you’ll find it’s full of exhibitions, showrooms and art schools – and some of the most creative people in town. Writers, painters, and young hip people use ArtPlay as a rendezvous, and you can feel the creative energy here. The industrial design with modern interior decoration is also a feast for the eyes!

13. Shopping Local Designs

If you’re into design, both international and local, you’ll find lots of cute things at Patriarshiye Prudy. Department store Podium Market is also a great spot for shopping, as a department store everywhere in town, with lots of local and international brands. There’s one in the Four Seasons Hotel next to Red Square. My favorite Moscow mall is Tsvetnoy Central Market, a cool spot with great brands, lots of inspo, and even a cute café!

14. Moscow City

Like many other great capitals of the world, for the past few decades, Moscow has hosted a super modern area full of modern skyscrapers – Moscow City. With a completely different vibe than the rest of town, it’s like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressively tall glass buildings. Here, you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, such as Ruski and Sixty they are perfect spots for dining or enjoying a glass of wine with a view. There are also a relatively new shopping mall with lots of international brands called Affimall!

Wine, Dine, and Party in Moscow

Gone are the gloomy Moscow days – cold as it might be in the winter, Russia’s capital is a place for the senses. Great food and drinks abound – and the clubs are hot, too!

15. Where to Eat in Moscow

Moscow is a great metropolis where people love to dine out, and there are endless options for delicious food. The flavors are as diverse as you’d expect from a big city, with options of fine dining and little hipster eateries. 

• For traditional Russian flavors, I can’t recommend Café Pushkin, Dr. Zhivago, and Turnadot enough.
• When looking for international cuisines, Italian is always the way to go, and my local favorite is Probka.
• Fine dining is best done among the clouds at White Rabbit, with European flavors.
• As for the hip spots, you can spend a full day just eating around trendy places, from burgers to Asian fusion.

More Dining Options

• Patriarshiye Prudy offers a lot of small and classy spots with cool concepts, like breakfast restaurants I Love Cake and Fresh.
• For dinner, I love the NYC experience of Saxon & Parole, and the wonderful trendy Pins, with its delicious food and drinks.
• For delicious Asian food head to CutFish. 
• Lastly, there’s a recent revival of food markets in Moscow, offering lots of great choices of international flavors at affordable places.
• Don’t miss out the Vietnamese food stand at the Danilovsky market, and everything at Usachevsky!

16. Rooftopping

Big cities deserve to be seen from above, having a cocktail among the clouds. These are my recommendations for rooftop bars in Moscow.

• As I mentioned in the Moscow City section, Sixty & Ruski are two of my favorites, overlooking the newest part of town. 
• White Rabbit and its fine dining is also a lovely place for a fun dinner looking down on Moscow.
• O2, in the city center, has an advantage above all others: amazing views of the Red Square.
• Buono, above the Radisson Royal Hotel, might be the most romantic rooftop hotel in town, with its candlelit setting.
• Also on the Radisson stands the Mercedes. It’s a luxurious and posh experience with delicious cocktails.
• The Sky Lounge offers a peculiar experience, mixing an old Soviet building with futuristic additions.

17. Moscow by Night

Party the night away! The city is full of bars everywhere, but there are some areas where you’ll find more than others.

• Patriarshiye Prudy has lots of hip and small clubs and great bars, including the super fun private club Clava, which has a great vibe and people from all walks of life.
• For more hipster style bars, Red October is the place to go.
• Streak is a summer favorite, with a lovely terrace to catch a beautiful sunset – plus, their mozzarella bar is delicious.
• At night, Red October lights up with clubs everywhere, including the cool rooftop one Gipsy.
• Jagger is also a great spot during summer with a more relaxed vibe in garden setting. 
• For the traditional Russian luxury experience, go to SohoRooms, a whole other world including all-night go-go dancers.

There are so many things to do in Moscow at night and during the day, you definitely need several days to explore this exciting destination.

Moscow is a must-see city, a city like no other ! I hope you will enjoy this Russian metropolis as much as I did!

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Follow Linda on  Instagram  guides! For more inspiration, follow my journey also on Facebook and Pinterest and see Linda’s bio below for more at her website.

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

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Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About Linda Voltaire

Linda Voltaire is the owner of Travel with a Silver Lining, home to reviews of gorgeous boutique & design hotels, hip & trendy eateries as well as authentic and personal travel experiences beyond the crowd. She started blogging after a life-changing trip across South America. Follow Linda at TravelWithASilverLining / Facebook / Instagram /

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10 thoughts on “17 Exciting Things to do in Moscow”

These places look so awesome! Moscow is truly a beautiful city

Very good article, you have explained so nicely. Russia has always been a part of history and its good to know about much more about architecture and other things, wish i could see the inside of façade

Thanks for sharing such a nice article.You have very beautifully explained everything that one need for a trip to Moscow.

Nice article. Love the hidden gems and graffiti art, would love to visit Artplay. Thanks for a comprehensive guide to Moscow!

Moscow is a city where the past and the future live side by side. Here we can find everything from medieval fortresses and Soviet monoliths to glass skyscrapers and innovation centers.

Your article is good and meaningful .

Thanks for sharing about ArtPlay district, we didn’t know about it and it looks amazing 🙂 Hopefully there’ll be a second time in Moscow, we visited last May and really liked the city!

Wonderful stuff! I’ve been to Moscow, but not properly – it’s a long story lol!

Anyhoo, my next thing is to fly from Berlin to Moscow and then travel from there to Beijing via the Trans-Mongolian / Trans-Siberian train. Now, if only I could just find the time …!

I hear Moscow is very beautiful at night. I hope to get out there one day. A friend of mine went to St. Petersburg and had a great experience. Despite all the tension we see on the news with Russia and other Countries like the U.S. I wonder what the sentiment is with Russians and foreigners visiting their country for tourism. Especially Americans.

that looks like quite a beautiful place. 🙂

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