Student Guide: Things You Can Do in Moscow on a Budget

Russia, the largest country in the world, is home to one of the largest and most beautiful cities, Moscow. It is the capital city of Russia, the seat of its national government, and a major cultural and economic center in Eastern Europe. Thus, you can expect to see a lot of activities (festivals, exhibitions, performances, concerts, etc.) and famous landmarks in Moscow.

However, as a student with a limited budget, how can you enjoy all the wonders of Moscow? 

Below are some of the things you can do and places you can visit in Moscow for free, or at an affordable price. 

Museum Hopping for Free or at a Discount

If you’re a student in one of Russia’s state-accredited institutions, and already have your student ID card, visiting museums in Moscow is either free or can be accessed through discounted tickets. Some famous and interesting museums in Moscow you can visit are the following:  

• The Museum of Cosmonautics showing Russia’s prowess and discoveries during the space race during the cold war.
• The Gulag History Museum, if you want to know more about Stalin’s Russia and his use of the GULAG to imprison people during his rule.
• Museum of Traditional Russian Beverages Ochakovo and try making your own craft beer and learn how traditional Russian drinks are prepared in the past.
• The Moscow Kremlin, showing Russia’s beautiful architecture, and is also the seat of the Russian Federation’s government since the ‘90s. 

Take a Stroll, Relax, or do Various Activities in Moscow’s Parks

Moscow is a green city. In fact, it is home to hundreds of parks, gardens, and garden squares that come in a variety. Some of the parks were part of Moscow’s history showing old villages and estates, some are home to wildlife and nature, and some have more specific functions for leisure. 

You can also do a lot of activities in Moscow’s many parks aside from just relaxing, walking, or jogging. In fact, you can even go there to skate, visit the zoo, explore the many rare and exotic plants in its botanical gardens, and even ride a yacht and play paintball. During special events, you can also witness various exhibitions, performances, and festivals in Moscow’s parks. 

The parks also have Wi-Fi, cafes, and sports facilities that visitors can also access. 

As a student, you don’t have to worry about accessibility because you can easily go there through the use of Moscow’s public transportation. 

Enter for Free and Enjoy Moscow’s Public Libraries 

If you are a book lover, you can visit Moscow’s many libraries. As of 2019, the city is home to more than 400 public libraries. However, unlike the traditional concept of a library, which is a quiet place, Moscow’s libraries are very diverse, with many various activities including lectures, and even plays and music concerts. 

Moreover, one of the world’s largest libraries is located in Moscow. The Russian State Library, aside from being Russia’s national library, is also the fourth largest library in the world in terms of its cataloged items. It includes items that are written in more than 300 languages. 

Enjoying Moscow on a budget is possible if you know where to go. Check out other must-see travel destinations in Russia by browsing through MSM Unify.