Rising majestically in the heart of the city, the Transfiguration Cathedral dazzles with its golden domes catching the sun like divine fire. Inside, stained-glass windows paint celestial scenes in radiant hues, while ancient icons watch in silent devotion. More than a place of worship, it's a masterpiece of faith, art, and architecture—each step echoes with centuries of spirit.








Everything you need to know about Transfiguration Cathedral
Marriott Kremlin Hotel is a top choice, located just 1.5 km from Transfiguration Cathedral with a 15-minute walk to the site. The hotel blends Russian classical architecture with modern luxury, offering rooms with panoramic views of the Kremlin and complimentary shuttle service to major attractions.
Guests can join guided tours organized by the hotel to explore the cathedral's Byzantine-style design and rare religious icons, providing deep cultural insight. Nearby, the Red Square pedestrian zone features historic tea houses perfect for sampling traditional Russian tea and pastries, allowing travelers to savor Moscow’s authentic rhythm and hospitality.
Yes, extremely convenient. Transfiguration Cathedral is located adjacent to the Kremlin Square, just a 5-minute walk to Red Square. Multiple metro lines—including the Sokolniki Line and Circle Line—have a stop at "Kremlin Station," providing fast access to key attractions across Moscow.
Additionally, dedicated tourist shuttle buses operate daily between the cathedral, Red Square, GUM Department Store, and St. Basil’s Cathedral. For efficiency, use the Moscow Metro App to purchase single tickets or a one-day pass, which also grants priority entry to major sites. For a more immersive experience, consider renting an electric bike and cycling along the Moskva River to Red Square, enjoying scenic views of the city along the way.
Beyond visiting the cathedral itself, guests can join Orthodox liturgy tours hosted by the Moscow Cultural Center, participating in morning prayers to understand its spiritual symbolism. On weekends, the cathedral hosts traditional Russian concerts featuring works by Bach and Tchaikovsky, performed in a solemn and elegant setting.
During Easter season, the cathedral grounds host a large Easter egg exhibition, showcasing hand-carved Pysanka eggs created by local artists, each rich in symbolic motifs. Visitors can also sign up for egg-painting workshops, learning traditional patterns and techniques to create their own unique keepsakes.
All activities include bilingual (Chinese/English) guides, making them accessible to international travelers seeking authentic cultural immersion.
Start at Marriott Kremlin Hotel with breakfast, then walk to Transfiguration Cathedral by 9:00 AM to explore its Byzantine domes and gold-leaf frescoes. At 10:30 AM, head to Red Square, visiting GUM Department Store and St. Basil’s Cathedral.
Lunch at Central Restaurant with traditional Russian borscht and black bread. From 2:00 PM, take the metro to State Historical Museum to delve into Russian imperial history. Return to Kremlin Square Park at 4:00 PM for a scenic stroll with panoramic views of the cathedral.
End the day with a nighttime light tour at 6:00 PM, witnessing the cathedral illuminated in golden brilliance, followed by coffee at a Red Square café to savor Moscow’s evening ambiance.
All tickets and transport can be streamlined via the Moscow City Pass, saving time and costs.
Yes, absolutely. Kremlin Square offers a safe, open space with interactive sculptures and fountains ideal for children to play. Nearby, the State Historical Museum features a dedicated children’s exploration zone with role-playing games and puzzle challenges that teach Russian history through fun, hands-on activities.
Just off Red Square, a charming toy street sells traditional Russian wooden toys and handmade dolls—perfect souvenirs. For relaxation, families can enjoy a picnic at the Kremlin Park’s designated area, renting umbrellas and picnic blankets to unwind together.
All facilities feature English signage, ensuring ease and safety for parents traveling with kids.
Marriott Hotel Kremlin is an ideal choice located just 500 meters from the Transfiguration Cathedral, offering a prime location within walking distance of Red Square and the Kremlin. The hotel features traditional Russian architectural design in its rooms and provides 24-hour concierge service, making it perfect for visitors exploring religious and historical sites. Its central position ensures easy access to public transit, including multiple metro lines, allowing seamless travel across Moscow’s iconic landmarks.
Yes, the Transfiguration Cathedral is well-connected via Moscow’s extensive metro system. Nearby stations include Red Square and Kremlin, both served by major lines such as the Circle Line and Tagansko-Krasnopresnenskaya Line. Travelers can reach the cathedral from Sheremetyevo Airport via the Serpukhovskaya Line or airport buses in under 30 minutes. Additionally, numerous taxi stands and electric scooter rental points are located nearby, ensuring hassle-free mobility for tourists exploring the historic center.
Near the Transfiguration Cathedral, visitors can participate in daily Orthodox morning services, offering an authentic spiritual experience. The adjacent Kremlin Museums provide expert-led tours into imperial treasures and historical artifacts. During summer, the annual Moscow Culture Festival transforms Red Square into a vibrant stage for traditional music, dance, and craft markets. We highly recommend joining a guided walking tour led by local historians to uncover the cathedral’s mythological origins and artistic significance within Moscow’s architectural heritage.
Near the Transfiguration Cathedral, families can enjoy Red Square, featuring interactive historical statues and souvenir shops perfect for kids. The Children's Museum of the Kremlin offers engaging, hands-on exhibits on Russian history and science. Just 1.5 km away, Moscow Zoo provides a full-day outing with animal encounters and educational programs. Numerous nearby parks also feature playgrounds and picnic areas, making them ideal spots for family relaxation and outdoor fun.
Yes, near the Transfiguration Cathedral, Tsarskaya Kukhnya is a top-rated restaurant inspired by Tsarist-era cuisine, serving signature dishes like beef borscht and roast duck breast with red wine sauce. Another excellent option is Kremlinskaya Stolovaya, located beside the Kremlin, known for its authentic Russian breakfast and freshly baked bread. Both restaurants feature historical interior design and live piano performances, creating an immersive atmosphere perfect for dining followed by a stroll through the cathedral’s illuminated square.
The Transfiguration Cathedral is renowned for its five-tiered domes, symbolizing the five Christian sacraments. Its exterior features white stone and intricate mosaic tiles in Byzantine style, while the interior boasts 16th-century religious frescoes depicting biblical scenes and angelic figures, remarkably preserved. Restored in the 1990s using original materials and traditional craftsmanship, the cathedral exemplifies reverence for Russia’s ecclesiastical architecture. Visitors can climb the bell tower for panoramic views of Red Square—a must-visit spot for photographers.
See what other travelers say about Transfiguration Cathedral

The location is in central Moscow, but the overall experience was extremely disappointing. The staff at check-in were very rude and unprofessional—especially one woman who seemed hostile and dismissive. To make matters worse, there were visibly marginalized individuals wandering freely around the hotel premises, which created an uneasy atmosphere. Even more alarming, the Russian National Guard frequently appeared in the lobby carrying weapons, which felt unsettling and inappropriate for a hotel environment. The whole place gave me the vibe of a roadside roadside stop rather than a 4-star or even 3-star property in the heart of Moscow. The ambiance, cleanliness, and security all fell far short of expectations. I wouldn’t recommend this hotel to anyone and would not stay here again.

Staying at Mini-Hotel Old Moscow was a perfect choice for both business and leisure travelers in central Moscow. The location is unbeatable—just a short metro ride from major attractions and business hubs. Even though the room is compact, it’s spotless, cozy, and thoughtfully designed with a comfortable large bed that made for a great night’s sleep. The bathroom had everything I needed, including quality toiletries. What stood out was the small kitchenette—perfect for brewing coffee or preparing quick meals, which saved me money and gave me flexibility. The staff were genuinely attentive and welcoming, making me feel at home. Clean, quiet, and well-located, this little gem offers incredible value. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone visiting Moscow, whether for work or just a relaxed getaway.

I had an absolutely wonderful weekend in Moscow! This time I stayed overnight in the city, so I chose Novy Arbat Residence Hotel — a cozy and centrally located option right on Arbat Street. The location was perfect: everything I wanted to see was just a short walk away. I loved strolling along Arbat in the evening, listening to street musicians and soaking up the lively atmosphere. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, giving us a detailed orientation of the hotel and even providing a tourist map that made navigating the city much easier. Staff are available 24/7 — whether it’s for assistance, ordering food, or drinks, they’re always ready to help. The room was spotless, with fresh towels and soft white robes that made me feel like I was at home. But what stood out most? I slept like a baby — total silence, a comfortable bed, and a warm, inviting ambiance. Plus, there’s free parking on-site, which is a huge plus if you're driving. Overall, this stay was exceptional — great value, excellent service, and a truly memorable experience. I’ll definitely be back.

We ended up in Moscow unexpectedly—definitely not part of the original plan. Arriving late, we had to scramble for a quick place to stay for just two nights. After calling ahead and confirming a room, the front desk girl mentioned payment was only in cash. We spent ages searching for ATMs around the city, while constantly getting calls from the manager checking if we’d actually show up. When we finally arrived, a young woman greeted us—clearly eager to go back to bed. Our stay was from the 13th to the 15th, but we were charged for three full days. We didn’t catch it at first because we were exhausted and just wanted to collapse into bed. No one offered any guidance or let us choose a room—even though there were clearly multiple available. The room was freezing cold. The TV worked only sporadically. The bathroom mirror was cracked, the shower door had a gap causing puddles every time we took a shower. Dirty, cloudy glasses sat on the table with no water inside—completely pointless. Mold was visible along the windowsill and walls near the window. The towel had stains and fuzz balls all over it. Noise insulation was terrible—every sound from the hallway or next room came through loud and clear. We checked out early in the morning. No one was at the front desk, so instead, a security guard came to inspect the room—without saying a word. We dropped off the key and left immediately since we were rushing to catch our flight. For 4,000 rubles per night—especially with photos that make it look better than it really is—we could’ve easily found something far more comfortable and reliable. These pictures are just a small fraction of what I captured. Honestly, I’m really disappointed we chose this hotel. It wasn’t worth the price, the experience, or the stress.

Staying at Metamoskva Hotel in Moscow was an absolute delight. The staff, especially the ladies at the front desk, were incredibly welcoming and friendly—so warm and professional it felt like coming home. The room was spotless, cozy, and well-designed with modern touches that made the stay truly comfortable. Location-wise, it's perfect for exploring the city—just a short metro ride to all major attractions. I’d definitely come back next year, and I really hope I can enjoy the same great team of friendly staff again. This place offers outstanding value for money and a memorable experience from start to finish.

The hotel is located in a fairly central area of Moscow, though tucked away in a side street—first-time visitors might struggle to find it. But once you're out, it only takes about a minute to reach a small convenience store where you can grab snacks and bread. That said, the room isn’t luxury-level, which makes sense given how budget-friendly the rate was—my company had set a strict price cap, so this was my only option. The owner, a tall Russian woman with a distinctive face reminiscent of Angelina Jolie, was very welcoming. Her English was limited, so I used a translation app to communicate. When I arrived late at night and couldn’t locate the place, I messaged her on WhatsApp, and she kindly came out to meet me—truly a nice touch. Despite the modest accommodations, her warmth and helpfulness made a big difference. Overall, a solid choice if you’re looking for a no-frills, centrally located stay without breaking the bank.

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.

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 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.
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