Aptekarsky Ogorod Botanical Garden Moscow
Russia's oldest botanical garden, founded in 1706, offering a lush escape with diverse greenhouses and seasonal blooms.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Enjoy tranquility
Aptekarsky Ogorod Botanical Garden Moscow
Best Time
Enjoy tranquility

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Russia's oldest botanical garden, founded in 1706, offering a lush escape with diverse greenhouses and seasonal blooms.
"A green oasis right in central Moscow, perfect for a calm stroll in any season."
🎯 Metro Access is Key
Easily reachable via metro, making it a convenient green escape in the city center. :train_2:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the extensive grounds and greenhouses. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tropical Greenhouse
Greenhouse
Step into a lush, subtropical paradise year-round, a stark contrast to Moscow's climate.

Succulent Collection
Greenhouse
Explore one of Russia's largest and oldest collections of desert plants, featuring a vast array of cacti.

Seasonal Blooms
Outdoor Gardens
Witness the garden transform with vibrant seasonal displays, from spring blossoms to autumn colors.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Ticket Value
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Metro Access is Key
Easily reachable via metro, making it a convenient green escape in the city center.
:train_2:👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the extensive grounds and greenhouses.
:athletic_shoe:📸 Capture the Beauty
The gardens offer stunning photo opportunities, especially the vibrant greenhouses.
:camerawithflash:☕️ Relax at Cafés
Several cafés and restaurants are located near the entrance for a post-stroll refreshment.
:coffee:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Metro Access is Key
Easily reachable via metro, making it a convenient green escape in the city center.
:train_2:👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the extensive grounds and greenhouses.
:athletic_shoe:📸 Capture the Beauty
The gardens offer stunning photo opportunities, especially the vibrant greenhouses.
:camerawithflash:☕️ Relax at Cafés
Several cafés and restaurants are located near the entrance for a post-stroll refreshment.
:coffee:🌸 Check Exhibition Schedules
Look out for special flower exhibitions, like the popular tulip displays.
:bouquet:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Aptekarsky Ogorod as a beautiful, central green oasis perfect for a peaceful stroll in any season. Highlights include the well-maintained gardens and the impressive tropical and succulent greenhouses. While some find tickets a bit pricey and weekends can be crowded, the overall experience is highly recommended for its natural beauty and relaxing atmosphere.
"Aptekarsky Ogorod is a green oasis right in central Moscow — easy to reach by metro and perfect for a calm stroll in any season. The gardens are beautifully maintained, and the tropical greenhouse is a real highlight. Plus, there are a few great cafés and restaurants nearby to relax after your walk.
➕
Super central location, just a minute from the metro
Seasonal blooms and tropical greenhouse
Peaceful, well-kept space in the middle of the city
Cafés and food options right by the entrance
➖
Tickets can feel pricey for a short visit
Some paths get crowded on weekends
❤️: A lovely spot to recharge and enjoy nature without leaving the city."
Kristina Tochilko
"It is truly a magical place. I loved it. It can be a great place to visit with friends, kids or go on a romantic date. Be prepared to walk a lot. There is a lot of entertainment. Cafes, fountains, restaurants, flower exhibitions, cactus room, tropical room, insect room, mini aquarium room. Fresh air. Highly recommend."
Valeriya Andreeva
"The garden is cute. I dare say that there are many exotic plants if we take into consideration the geographical location of Moscow. The only minus is there place is horribly overcrowded. My daughter couldn't tolerate the long line of visitors to enter the tulips exhibition, so we decided to move away; despite of the fact that we had paid for the tickets."
Alexander Potapov
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Aptekarsky Ogorod is very centrally located and easily accessible by public transport. Take the metro to Prospect Mira station (Koltsevaya Line or Kaluzhsko-Rizhskaya Line), and it's just a short walk from there.
Parking in central Moscow can be challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transportation like the metro to reach the garden.
The closest metro station is Prospect Mira. From there, it's a very short walk to the garden entrance.
Yes, taxis are readily available in Moscow. You can use ride-sharing apps or hail a taxi to get directly to the Aptekarsky Ogorod.
While many paths are paved, some areas might be uneven. The greenhouses are generally accessible, but it's advisable to check specific accessibility details upon arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The garden is typically open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, but hours can vary seasonally and for special events. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
Ticket prices can vary depending on the season and any special exhibitions. Regular adult tickets are around 300 rubles, but evening tours are significantly cheaper at about 50 rubles.
While tickets are available for purchase at the entrance, it's often convenient to buy them online in advance, especially during peak seasons or for popular exhibitions to avoid queues.
Generally, a single entry ticket grants access to most areas, including the greenhouses. However, it's always good to confirm if specific exhibitions or areas require separate tickets.
If you have limited time, consider focusing on the highlights like the tropical greenhouse or succulent collection. The evening tours offer a more budget-friendly option for a shorter visit.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the stunning tropical greenhouse with its lush vegetation and the extensive succulent collection. The outdoor gardens are also beautiful, especially during blooming seasons.
Yes, the garden is very family-friendly. Kids often enjoy exploring the greenhouses, looking at the diverse plants, and the open spaces for a stroll.
Photography is generally allowed, and the garden offers many picturesque spots. However, professional photography or filming might require special permits.
Guided tours are sometimes offered, especially for specific exhibitions or themed walks. Check the garden's schedule or inquire at the information desk.
You'll find a vast array of plants, including tropical species, succulents, cacti, seasonal flowers, and various trees and shrubs. The collection is quite diverse.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are cafés and restaurants located within or very close to the garden, offering various cuisines like Georgian, Italian, and Vietnamese.
You can find a range of options, from quick snacks and coffee to full meals. Some places even offer unique items like rose-shaped ice cream.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to consume food in designated café areas to maintain the garden's pristine condition. Check for any specific picnic policies.
With diverse international cuisine available, you should be able to find vegetarian and likely vegan options at the various eateries.
Prices can vary, but you can find both budget-friendly snacks and more upscale dining experiences.
📸 📸 Photography
The tropical and succulent greenhouses offer incredibly vibrant and exotic backdrops. The outdoor gardens are also stunning, especially during peak bloom seasons.
Drone usage is typically restricted in botanical gardens and public spaces in Moscow. It's advisable to check with the garden administration for any specific regulations.
Portrait photography is usually permitted for personal use. However, if you plan a professional photoshoot, it's best to inquire about potential permits or fees.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer, more flattering light. Golden hour can be particularly magical for capturing the garden's beauty.
Avoid disturbing plants or other visitors. Stick to designated paths and be mindful of the environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Pack snacks and drinks, though cafés are available. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid crowds, especially if your children are sensitive to long lines. The sheer variety of plants can be a fun learning experience, making it an educational outing as well as an enjoyable one.
❤️ Couples & Romantic Dates
Recommendations: Visit during the 'golden hour' for stunning photography opportunities. Afterwards, enjoy a meal at one of the charming cafés nearby. The garden's tranquil atmosphere makes it ideal for quiet conversation and shared appreciation of nature's beauty.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Photo tips: Focus on macro shots of flowers and intricate plant details, or capture the grand scale of the greenhouses. Early morning or late afternoon light will enhance your images. Be mindful of other visitors and the delicate environment while you shoot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Today, it holds the status of a historical and cultural monument of Moscow and a monument of garden and park art of the 18th century. Its rich history is palpable as you wander through its grounds, a testament to Russia's long-standing interest in botany and horticulture.
The garden is a part of Moscow State University and plays a crucial role in scientific research, plant conservation, and education. Its historical significance combined with its living collections makes it a unique destination.
The Enchanting Greenhouses
Equally impressive is the succulent and cactus greenhouse, which houses one of the largest and oldest collections of 'desert plants' in Russia. This section showcases an incredible variety of cacti and succulents, demonstrating the resilience and unique beauty of flora adapted to arid conditions.
These greenhouses are not just for display; they are vital for research and conservation, housing species that might be rare or endangered in their natural habitats. Visiting them provides a fascinating insight into global plant diversity.
Seasonal Spectacles
Summer brings lush greenery and the blooming of magnificent water lilies and other aquatic plants. As autumn arrives, the foliage transforms into a rich tapestry of colors, offering a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll. Even in winter, the greenhouses provide a warm, green sanctuary.
Keep an eye out for special exhibitions and festivals, such as the 'Spring Repetition' festival, which showcase the garden's most spectacular blooms and offer a unique sensory experience.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit