Tucked away in the heart of Moscow, St. Daniel Monastery is a quiet sanctuary where time slows down. Crumbling red brick walls, serene courtyards, and an eternal flame whisper tales of faith and resilience. Step inside, and you’ll feel the weight of centuries—perfect for reflection, stillness, and soulful moments.

Everything you need to know about Danilov Monastery 2
Stay at the Metropolitan Hotel Moscow, just a 15-minute walk from St. Daniel Monastery, blending classical Russian architecture with modern luxury. The hotel offers private guided tours and complimentary shuttle service to the monastery. Guest rooms feature original Orthodox Christian artwork, creating a serene, contemplative atmosphere. Its on-site monastery-themed restaurant specializes in traditional Russian vegetarian cuisine, allowing guests to experience spiritual culture through taste. Located along the Moskva River promenade, it’s ideal for morning walks with views of the monastery bathed in dawn light.
Take the Moscow Metro to Park Pobedy Station, then transfer to Bus 270 or walk about 20 minutes. For comfort, book a private car transfer via hotel or tour operator—just 15 minutes without traffic delays. The monastery has a free parking lot nearby, ideal for self-drive visitors. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy tranquil moments amid natural lighting and peaceful surroundings.
Join a guided Orthodox prayer service led by monks, offering deep insight into Russian Orthodox traditions and rituals. Another highlight is the icon painting workshop using traditional egg tempera techniques, where you create your own miniature religious artwork. The annual summer Monastery Music Festival features performances of Bach and Taneyev pieces in the cathedral square—serene and moving. Nighttime lighting tours illuminate the historic architecture, revealing its mystical character, perfect for photographers and history enthusiasts.
The Moskva River Greenway adjacent to the monastery features children’s play zones, picnic lawns, and shaded pavilions—perfect for families. Free maps and multilingual signage help guide exploration. Bike rental stations allow families to ride along the river to nearby parks. The monastery café offers child-sized meals and gluten-free options for safe dining. Weekends often host family cultural days with storytelling, crafts, and religious art exhibits—educational and engaging for all ages.
Founded in 1499 under Grand Prince Ivan III of Moscow, St. Daniel Monastery was built to honor Saint Daniel, a revered Orthodox saint. Originally a wooden church, it underwent multiple reconstructions and evolved into one of Moscow’s most significant Orthodox spiritual centers. It played a vital role in defending national territory and religious traditions during 16th-century conflicts. The complex blends Byzantine domes with distinct Russian architectural elements. Inside, priceless icons and manuscripts from the 17th–18th centuries remain preserved, reflecting immense historical and artistic value. Today, it remains an active monastery with daily liturgies.
Book guided tours via the official website or authorized travel agencies—recommended to reserve at least three days in advance, especially during holidays. Tours are available in Chinese, English, and Russian, limited to 20 participants per session for intimate, in-depth experiences. Content includes architectural insights, religious rituals, and historical artifact interpretations. Upon completion, guests receive a digital guidebook and commemorative badge. On-site self-guided audio guides also support multiple languages, enabling flexible exploration.
Marriott Hotel Kremlin Moscow is a top choice, just 5 km from St. Daniel Monastery with complimentary high-speed rail shuttles to downtown. The hotel blends Russian classical architecture with modern luxury, featuring a traditional Russian sauna and a Renaissance-style restaurant. Guests enjoy panoramic views of the monastery’s golden domes from their rooms—especially breathtaking at sunset. Additionally, the hotel partners with local tour operators to offer a "Monastery Night Illumination Tour," allowing visitors to experience the site’s spiritual ambiance in quiet evening light.
Yes, it's easily reachable via public transit. Take Line 3 (Sokolniki Line) of the Moscow Metro to "Suvorovskaya Station," then transfer to bus 709 or take a taxi—just 20 minutes away. Alternatively, use local ride-hailing apps like Yandex.Taxi or Bolt, which take about 15 minutes and cost around 300 rubles. The monastery has a dedicated parking lot for self-drive visitors. Several sightseeing bus tours (e.g., "Moscow City Tour") also include the site, offering audio guides and historical commentary—ideal for first-time travelers.
The monastery houses an 18th-century Monastery Museum showcasing rare icons, ancient manuscripts, and liturgical artifacts—some donated by the Russian Orthodox Patriarch himself. Each summer, the "Monastery Music Festival" features performances by the church choir and the State Symphony Orchestra, presenting works by Bach and Prokofiev in a solemn, reverent atmosphere. Visitors can also book the "Traditional Monk Breakfast Experience," savoring rye bread, honey, and sour milk while learning basic prayer rituals. Spots are limited to 20 guests per session and require advance HopeGoo for an immersive encounter.
Founded in 1490 by Grand Prince Ivan III to honor his son Prince Daniel, the monastery combines Byzantine and Moscow architectural styles, built with red brick and centered around the Golden-Domed Assumption Cathedral—once hailed as the "Eastern Hagia Sophia." Despite destruction during wars and closure under Soviet rule in the 1930s, it was restored in the 1990s and reactivated as a religious site. Today, it remains a key center of the Russian Orthodox Church and is listed as a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage status. Original 16th-century frescoes still adorn its walls, preserving centuries of spiritual artistry.
Yes, nearby attractions include the Moscow Zoo (Moscow Oblast branch) and the Old Kremlin Children's Park—both ideal for families. The zoo features interactive educational zones where visitors can observe Siberian tigers and snow leopards up close. The children’s park includes play structures shaped like a monastic castle and hosts monthly "Little Monk Role-Play Events." Additionally, the adjacent green walking trail offers family strolls with historical plaques along the way, blending recreation and education. All sites support wheelchair access and provide Chinese-language audio guides.
The monastery is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (October–March) and 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM (April–September). Admission is 250 RUB for adults, 150 RUB for students, with half-price tickets for seniors and holders of valid ID. Guided tours cost 300 RUB per hour, including Chinese-speaking guides. Tickets are recommended for purchase online in advance, especially on weekends and holidays. Photography is prohibited inside, but designated photo zones are available outside for capturing icons and golden domes.
See what other travelers say about Danilov Monastery 2

The hotel is super easy to find, and the lobby has such a unique vibe right from the moment you walk in. The room was spacious and spotless, and having a small balcony with such stunning views made the stay even more special—sitting out there watching the city lights come on was pure magic. The only thing that could be improved is the bathroom layout: there’s no separate shower area, so you have to step in and out of the bathtub to shower, which can make the floor slippery and messy. It would be great if they added a dedicated shower stall. Still, overall, the experience was excellent—the location, comfort, and attention to detail really stand out. Definitely a place I’d recommend and return to.

The Ozerkovskaya Hotel is absolutely fantastic! Located just a short walk from the metro, it’s super convenient for getting around Moscow. The room was clean, spacious, and very comfortable—especially the bed, which made for a restful night’s sleep. Noise insulation is excellent, so you won’t be disturbed by outside sounds. The staff were friendly and efficient throughout our stay, making check-in and check-out smooth and stress-free. What really stood out was the great value for money—this place offers so much more than expected at this price point. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting Moscow.

I can't recommend this hotel at all—our experience was extremely disappointing and deeply unsettling. While the location is convenient, just a short metro ride away, the service was appalling. The front desk staff was rude and dismissive, with no regard for basic customer respect. Later, a manager named Sergey reached out, claiming he wanted to understand the situation—but his real goal seemed to be persuading us to delete our negative review. He even tried to shift blame onto me, suggesting I was at fault for the incident. When we explained that we had to cancel due to a family member’s sudden heart attack—well in advance (12 days prior), and with full prepayment for four nights—he insisted the rate was non-refundable and that our circumstances didn’t matter. He cited a message stating, 'By choosing a non-refundable rate, you accept all risks—you’ll never get your money back, even if something serious happens.' We sent medical documentation, flight tickets, and booking details as proof of the emergency, but he still refused to refund us, saying the evidence wasn’t sufficient. This contradicts Russian consumer protection laws: when services aren’t provided due to unforeseen circumstances, refunds are legally required. There was zero empathy, no understanding, and no humanity in their response. Instead, they offered a voucher in exchange for deleting our feedback—like we were the ones who caused the problem. This kind of behavior feels predatory. We’re now preparing to file a police report and take legal action for fraudulent practices. Please, avoid this hotel. Don’t let them profit from your trust. Choose a place with integrity, compassion, and transparency instead.

Staying at Boxtel Hostel in Moscow was an absolute delight! The room was incredibly clean and well-maintained—so tidy it felt like a fresh start. What really stood out was the owner's thoughtfulness: he personally ironed my clothes, which was such a nice surprise. The location is super convenient for getting around town via metro, just a short ride to the city center. With its friendly vibe, excellent cleanliness, and great value, this hostel offers more than just a place to sleep—it’s a memorable experience. I’ll definitely be back!

The location was excellent—just a short walk from the exhibition venue, making everything super convenient. We arrived to find the hotel temporarily closed due to unforeseen circumstances, but the staff handled it professionally and swiftly. They arranged a driver to transfer us to a partner property with no hassle, ensuring we had a smooth check-in. Despite the unexpected situation, the team’s responsiveness and customer care were outstanding. The alternative hotel was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. Overall, the experience exceeded expectations given the circumstances. Great communication, strong problem-solving, and genuine hospitality make this a standout stay in Moscow.

Staying at National Hotel in Moscow was an absolute highlight of my trip. The location is unbeatable—right across from Red Square, with the metro Line 1 exit just steps away. Everything about the hotel felt well-organized and clean. Housekeeping was excellent—towels, shampoo, and all amenities were replaced daily, and always fresh. It’s clear they take pride in their service. However, I do have one strong warning: avoid Room 154 at all costs. When I entered, I was immediately hit by a strong sewer-like smell. I called the front desk right away and requested a room change—thankfully, they accommodated me without delay. If you’re assigned this room, don’t hesitate to ask for another one. Other rooms are clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. Overall, the hotel offers great value, exceptional convenience, and top-tier cleanliness. Just steer clear of that one room!

Located in the heart of Moscow, Ostozhenka 47 Mini-Hotel offers a compact but clean and cozy stay. The room is small, but perfectly functional—especially with the soft, comfortable bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. Daily water refills are provided, and there’s a mini-fridge by the bedside, which comes in handy for keeping drinks cool. The front desk staff, an elderly lady, was incredibly friendly and helpful—her warm demeanor really added to the overall experience. One thing to note: there’s no laundry machine on-site, so guests needing to wash clothes will need to plan accordingly. While the location makes it slightly less value-for-money compared to other options outside the city center, the convenience, cleanliness, and personal touch make up for it. If you’re looking for a quiet, well-maintained urban retreat with easy access to metro lines and nearby attractions, this mini-hotel is a solid choice. Great for short stays or travelers who prioritize comfort and service over space.

Staying at Bouchee Mini Hotel was an absolute delight from start to finish. The staff were incredibly warm and welcoming—always smiling, ready to help with anything, and made me feel right at home. The room was spotlessly clean, with a fresh, tidy vibe that made the stay so comfortable. What really stood out? The hotel sits right next to a charming little urban park. Every evening, different local groups perform—live music, dance acts, even impromptu theater pieces. I’d just grab a seat on the bench, enjoy the breeze, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. It’s such a unique and authentic touch to the experience. Plus, it’s super convenient for getting around Moscow—just a short walk to the metro. This place isn’t just a hotel; it’s a slice of local life. Highly recommend for travelers who want something special, cozy, and full of character.

Staying at Cosmos Smart Dubininskaya Hotel was a pleasant experience overall. The bed was comfortable, and the room had reliable heating—perfect for the colder months. Its location is excellent, just a short distance from the city center, making it easy to explore Moscow on foot or by metro. Breakfast was simple but satisfying, offering enough variety to start the day right. The front desk staff were exceptionally helpful and patient, always ready to assist with any questions or requests. The hotel’s quality matches that of mid-range chains like Home Inn or HanTing back home, but with better value for money. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for comfort, convenience, and affordability in a central spot—definitely worth considering for future visits.

I really didn’t want to leave a negative review, but I feel it’s necessary to warn others after staying at Diplomat Residence Hotel in Moscow. While the location is convenient—just a short metro ride from the city center—the actual experience was disappointing. The room was outdated, with outdated fixtures and inconsistent hot water supply. To make matters worse, I couldn’t check in right away—I had to wait for over 30 minutes while staff struggled to process my reservation. It felt unprofessional and disorganized throughout. The hotel clearly doesn’t meet basic standards, and I’m concerned about how this affects future guests. If platforms continue to list such properties without proper oversight, travelers will keep getting misled. This place should be reconsidered for removal or serious improvement.

The biggest advantage of this hotel is definitely its location—there’s simply no better alternative for us. We’ve been staying here since 2018, but in recent visits, we’ve noticed a clear decline in both quality and service. This time, we requested early check-in (9:00 AM) and late check-out (19:00 the next day), totaling just 1.5 nights, though we booked two full nights (Saturday to Monday). Arriving earlier than expected, we asked the front desk if we could check in early, explaining that we wouldn’t be staying overnight on Sunday or Monday—so we were only paying for actual time used. In past stays, similar arrangements cost us half a day each way. But this time, the staff said policies had changed: checking in before 11:00 AM would require a full day’s charge, and leaving after 6:00 PM also meant a full-day fee. That meant being charged for three days—even though we’d only be using the room for 1.5 nights. With no other option, we paid up and checked in. However, the house rules posted in the room state that late check-out until midnight is only 50% of the room rate—directly contradicting what the front desk told us. It’s confusing and frustrating, especially as regular guests who expected some flexibility. The room quality itself was disappointing too. Towels were stained, worn through, and looked more like rags than proper hotel linens—definitely not fit for a 4-star property. The bathrobe was in the same sorry state. The bathroom was visibly dirty. All of this left a very negative impression. After years of loyalty, we’re now seriously considering switching to another hotel once we find a better option. We won’t come back unless things improve significantly.

Staying at this hotel in Moscow was a pleasant surprise. Just a 2-kilometer walk from Red Square—about 30 minutes on foot—makes for a nice, leisurely stroll through local neighborhoods with a real sense of the city. The location is convenient, with plenty of nearby restaurants and easy access to public transit. What really stands out is the incredible value for money. The room quality, comfort, and overall experience are far beyond what you'd expect at this price point. It’s rare to find such a well-balanced mix of location, comfort, and affordability. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting Moscow.
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