
Old Arbat
Moscow's historic pedestrian street, alive with artists, musicians, souvenir shops, and cafes. A vibrant cultural hub.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed atmosphere

Old Arbat
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Moscow's historic pedestrian street, alive with artists, musicians, souvenir shops, and cafes. A vibrant cultural hub.
"A street so full of life and character, after the Kremlin, it should be the second place to visit in Moscow."

🎯 Compare Souvenir Prices
Don't buy from the first shop! Larger stores offer better prices on vodka and souvenirs than small street vendors.
🚶♀️ Wander the Side Streets
Beyond the main drag, discover quieter alleys with unique architecture and local charm.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Street Performers
Musicians, artists, and actors bring Old Arbat to life with spontaneous performances. A true taste of Moscow's creative spirit.

Souvenir Shopping
Find traditional Russian crafts, matryoshka dolls, and iconic souvenirs. Perfect for unique gifts and mementos.

Architectural Gems
Admire historic buildings, including Pushkin's House, showcasing Moscow's rich architectural heritage.
Samovar Art Pavilion
A unique art pavilion celebrating Russian traditions and hospitality, featuring local producers and crafts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Arbat Vibe
Souvenir Savvy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Compare Souvenir Prices
Don't buy from the first shop! Larger stores offer better prices on vodka and souvenirs than small street vendors.
🚶♀️ Wander the Side Streets
Beyond the main drag, discover quieter alleys with unique architecture and local charm.
🎶 Enjoy Street Music
The street musicians add a fantastic atmosphere. Take a moment to listen and appreciate the talent.
☕️ Sample Russian Cuisine
Explore diverse restaurants and food halls for authentic Russian dishes and local flavors.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Compare Souvenir Prices
Don't buy from the first shop! Larger stores offer better prices on vodka and souvenirs than small street vendors.
🚶♀️ Wander the Side Streets
Beyond the main drag, discover quieter alleys with unique architecture and local charm.
🎶 Enjoy Street Music
The street musicians add a fantastic atmosphere. Take a moment to listen and appreciate the talent.
☕️ Sample Russian Cuisine
Explore diverse restaurants and food halls for authentic Russian dishes and local flavors.
📸 Capture the Vibe
Old Arbat is incredibly photogenic, especially with its lively street scenes and historic buildings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Old Arbat is celebrated as a vibrant, character-filled street, often considered a must-visit after the Kremlin. Visitors love its lively atmosphere, diverse shops, and street performers. However, some find souvenir prices high and suggest seeking larger stores for better deals.
"A street so full of life and character, after the kremlin, it should be the second place to visit in Moscow. There are heaps of shops selling souvenirs and also branded goods, there are multiple-cuisine restaurants and also food halls selling Russian food. There’s a vibrant energy all around. There are also people performing on the streets and various installations"
Natalie Pote
"Another remarkable place in the heart of Moscow. Has many selections of restaurants that you can try. Analogous to Bauman Street in Kazan, although i liked the latter more."
Mustafa Shahid
"Arbat is very popular street. Always happening place. Many shops, brands are located and you can find some iconic buildings with great architectural facades. Great Russian Poet Pushkin's House is on this street only.
Length of this street is around 1 km and its one of the oldest survived iconic street. Since around 15th century."
Vijay Nair
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Old Arbat is easily accessible by metro. The closest stations are Arbatskaya (Arbatsko-Pokrovskaya Line) and Borovitskaya (Serpukhovsko-Timiryazevskaya Line).
From these stations, it's a short walk to the pedestrian street.Yes, Old Arbat is centrally located and can be reached on foot from several key areas, including the Kremlin and Alexander Garden, making it a convenient addition to your Moscow itinerary.
The best way to explore Old Arbat is on foot. It's a pedestrian street designed for leisurely strolls, shopping, and enjoying the atmosphere.
Parking near Old Arbat can be challenging due to its central location and pedestrian nature. It's highly recommended to use public transport like the metro to avoid parking hassles.
Yes, taxis can drop you off at the entrances to Old Arbat. However, be aware that the street itself is closed to vehicle traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Old Arbat Street is a public pedestrian area and does not require an entrance ticket. You can explore it freely at any time.
Old Arbat is always open as it's a public street. However, individual shops, restaurants, and cafes will have their own operating hours, typically from late morning to late evening.
While performances are free to watch, it's customary and appreciated to tip the street artists if you enjoy their act.
Information on admission fees for the Samovar Art Pavilion can vary. It's best to check their specific opening times and any associated costs closer to your visit.
Yes, Alexander Pushkin's apartment museum is located on Old Arbat Street and is open to visitors. Check its specific opening hours and admission fees.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
You'll find a wide array of souvenirs, including traditional Russian matryoshka dolls, amber jewelry, ushanka hats, painted nesting dolls, and of course, Russian vodka.
Redditors advise buying souvenirs from larger, established stores rather than small street vendors, as prices can be significantly lower.
Old Arbat offers a diverse culinary scene with numerous restaurants serving various cuisines, from traditional Russian food to international dishes. There are also cafes and food halls.
While specific 'famous' restaurants can be subjective, the street is known for its variety. Many visitors enjoy trying traditional Russian dishes at the numerous eateries.
Yes, Old Arbat is a popular place to buy Russian vodka. Look for larger stores for a better selection and price range, from 250 to 1400 rubles.
📸 📸 Photography & Art
Capture the vibrant street life, street performers, unique architecture, and the iconic Samovar pavilion. The evening lights also offer a magical ambiance.
Yes, Old Arbat often features temporary art installations, such as the 'Beauty Bus' pavilion, adding to its dynamic atmosphere.
While not a primary focus, you might encounter street art or graffiti in the surrounding alleys or as part of temporary exhibitions.
The lively backdrop of Old Arbat, with its colorful shops and bustling crowds, can make for interesting and dynamic portrait shots.
The 'Samovar' is an art pavilion celebrating Russian traditions and hospitality, showcasing products from Moscow-based producers and unique souvenirs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the day when it's less crowded and safer for younger children. While the street is pedestrian-friendly, keep a close eye on kids due to the crowds. The Samovar Art Pavilion might also offer interesting visual experiences for families.
💰 Budget Travelers
When it comes to souvenirs, heed the advice to shop at larger stores for better prices on items like vodka and traditional crafts. For dining, look for food halls or smaller cafes away from the main tourist hotspots for more budget-friendly meal options.
🎨 Art & Culture Enthusiasts
Don't miss the Pushkin Museum for a deep dive into Russian literature and the Samovar Art Pavilion for a taste of contemporary Russian artistry and tradition. The performances by street musicians and artists offer spontaneous cultural encounters that are a hallmark of this vibrant street.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Dual Nature of Arbat: Old vs. New
New Arbat, on the other hand, is a wide, modern avenue built in the Soviet era. It's characterized by high-rise buildings, modern shops, and a faster pace of life. While it offers a different perspective of Moscow, it lacks the historic character of its older counterpart. Many visitors find Old Arbat to be the more charming and culturally rich experience for a leisurely stroll and souvenir hunting.
When planning your visit, be clear about which Arbat you intend to explore. Old Arbat is the one that typically comes to mind when people refer to the iconic, artsy street.
A Stroll Through History on Old Arbat
Walking along Old Arbat, you'll encounter a blend of architectural styles, from historic merchant houses to buildings from the constructivist era. The street has a unique character, often described as a place where history meets vibrant street life. It's a place to not just shop but to absorb the atmosphere and imagine the lives of those who walked these cobblestones centuries ago.
Beyond Pushkin's House, the street is lined with buildings that tell stories of Moscow's past. The Vakhtangov Theatre is also a notable landmark nearby, adding to the cultural significance of the area. Exploring the side streets off Old Arbat can reveal even more architectural gems and a quieter, more local perspective.
Navigating Souvenir Shopping on Old Arbat
However, a common piece of advice from travelers is to be discerning with your purchases. While the street is lively, prices in smaller, individual shops can be significantly higher than in larger, more established stores. Many recommend comparing prices across different vendors and looking for larger shops that often offer better value, especially for items like vodka.
Beyond the typical souvenirs, you might also find unique art pieces, local crafts, and even items from Moscow-based producers at places like the Samovar Art Pavilion. So, while Old Arbat is a treasure trove for souvenirs, a little savvy shopping can ensure you get the best mementos without overspending.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit