Moscow can be as fascinating as it can be daunting. From the Grand Duchy of Muscovy in medieval Rus' and the capital of Russian Tsardom it was then reduced to a provincial town of merchants where Tolstoy heroes would spend summers in their country mansions. And then another spin of history made it the world capital of communism. Today, with population of over 12 million, Moscow is the biggest city in Europe. Great vibes, extremely rich cultural life, new restaurants and bars opening almost every day, superb parks - it is really hard to get bored in this city. But with it also come constant traffic jams and overcrowded underground. Unlike St Petersburg with its magnificent palaces and romantic canals, Moscow is not as obviously beautiful. On the contrary, you may often find youself surrounded by massive late Soviet jumbo structures. You need to go deep into the alleys and back streets to discover miraculously survived wooden houses, former merchant mansions and constructivism-era masterpieces.
Founded in 1147 Population: 12 330 126 UTC+3