Izmailovo and Tsaritsyno: Historical Places That Are Full of Life
In the third and final batch of winter leisure recommendations from interns of the HSE University website team, Sofa recommends a popular flea market in the eastern part of the city, while Sofiya talks about where to enjoy imperial Russian architecture and the quietness of a natural park at the same time.
Sofa
My name is Sofa and I have lived in Moscow all my life. Unfortunately, in the hustle and bustle of school and work days it's hard to find time to get out somewhere, but when it happens, I really like to visit the Izmailovsky Kremlin. It is not only a cultural complex with a large number of museums and exhibitions, but also a meeting place for locals! Here you can enjoy the architecture, get acquainted with beautiful historical places, and just have a good time.
On weekend mornings near the Kremlin, in the Izmailovsky Vernissage, there are flea markets. Here you can enjoy the market atmosphere and buy inexpensive souvenirs (there is something to suit every taste, from Soviet Christmas tree toys and trinkets to furniture, vinyl records, and oriental carpets). Culture and crafts are also represented at the Vernissage: for example, you can walk along the alley of paintings where local artists exhibit their works or take a master class in blacksmithing. You can also visit various museums where you can learn about Russian history, culture and folk traditions.
Fans of active, sporty recreation will love it here: the Silver Ice (Серебряный лёд) skating rink is half an hour's walk away, with skates for hire, natural and artificial ice, and festive decorations!
How to get there: the most convenient way to get to the Izmailovsky Kremlin is by metro.
Take the metro to Partizanskaya (blue line, line 3) or Izmailovskaya (blue line, line 3). After exiting the metro, follow the signs to the exit that will lead you to Izmailovsky Park. The Izmailovsky Kremlin is within walking distance of both stations (approximately 15–20 minutes on foot).
Sofiya
My name is Sofiya! I've only been living in Moscow for a few years, so I've visited a lot of places to get to know the city better. The most memorable one is Tsaritsyno Park, one of the most beautiful and atmospheric places in Moscow—especially in winter. Surrounded by magnificent architecture and natural landscapes, this historic park attracts people with its magic and tranquillity.
The park's numerous alleys are ideal for strolling. Quiet paths lead to picturesque ponds and bridges
An especially beautiful spot is the Big Bridge over the ravine, which offers mesmerising views of the park. Here you can enjoy solitude and take stunning photos.
Tsaritsyno is also a place where you can learn a lot of interesting things. The museums located in the palaces continue to operate in winter, offering exhibitions on history, art, and architecture. If you want to warm up, you can go to a cosy cafe in the park and have a cup of hot tea.
For me, Tsaritsyno in winter is a combination of tranquillity, aesthetic pleasure, and cultural enrichment. It is the perfect place to enjoy nature, admire historical monuments, and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. If you want to visit this park, it is very easy to get to. It is located at Tsaritsyno metro station.