If there was ever a time to visit the city of Moscow - it's now. Freed from the constraints of censorship, Russia's capital is undergoing a rebirth of creative energy, visible in every aspect of this ancient city that, for decades, lay hidden behind the Iron Curtain. With an edgy art scene, thriving nightlife, and rich history, the heart of Russia has unexpected surprises around every corner.

What to see:

Today, the Kremlin remains as alluring and mysterious as ever. Meaning "fortress" in Russian, it is home to spectacular 15th-century cathedrals, the armory, and the State Treasury Diamond Fund featuring the 189-carat Orlov Diamond. As the official residence of the President of the Russian Federation, the Kremlin is the perfect place to begin your tour of Moscow. Be sure to pack Joby's GorillaPod for catching sweeping vistas and self-portraits at any angle imaginable.

You recognize it from popular TV news images and postcards of Moscow: the quintessentially Russian St. Basil's Cathedral on Red Square. With its colorful onion-shaped domes, St. Basil's was built in the 1500's and, as legend has it, Ivan the Terrible blinded the architect so he could never build anything so beautiful again. Open daily for tours and Sunday services, there is a museum inside that explains the church's rich history.

If you want to truly experience a taste of Russia, visit the Russian Vodka Museum. This small museum will give you an insider's perspective on the celebrated Russian liquor and, with its lively atmosphere, is a great way to break up a day of visiting churches and museums!

Where to shop:

Gone are the Cold War images of long lines with an unpredictable distribution of goods. In this era, Muscovites are shopping in extravagant malls, new department stores, and designer boutiques.

In Moscow's GUM, you can shop for the most fashionable brands in the pinnacle of style. This shopping emporium sits on Red Square, directly across from the Kremlin, and carries both distinctly Russian brands as well as well-known upscale boutiques.

For Russian art, crafts, antiques, and souvenirs, the sprawling Izmaylovo Market is open every day of the week. Feel free to bargain on prices, and be sure to visit on the weekend when selections are bountiful.

Where to eat:

Finding a good restaurant in Moscow used to be difficult, but not anymore. Traditional Russian cuisine is hearty and straightforward (Russians enjoy their meat and potatoes).

Named for the man many consider to be the founder of modern Russian literature, Café Pushkin is a step back in time to 19th century Moscow. This replica Baroque mansion has servers dressed in period clothing, menus printed to resemble old newspapers, and food fit for a tsar. From blini to caviar, all the favorite Russian fare can be enjoyed here. Open daily, 24 hours, reservations are almost always needed!

The Genatsvale VIP is located close to the Christ the Savior Cathedral and offers up authentic Georgian food at very reasonable prices. Set in a rustic, cozy Georgian-style country home, you can also enjoy traditional dancing set to the voices of a live Georgian choir.

What Do I Need to Travel to Moscow?