12 days in Istanbul & Moscow Itinerary

A physical and cultural bridge between Europe and Asia, the transcontinental city of Istanbul serves as a living reminder of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires.

Spend the 9th (Wed) floating through the air with a balloon tour. The adventure continues: admire the landmark architecture of Hagia Sophia, hunt for treasures at Kapali Carsi, get engrossed in the history at Topkapi Palace, and delve into the distant past at Basilica Cistern.

For where to stay, maps, reviews, and more tourist information, read our Istanbul tour itinerary app.

If you are flying in from Egypt, the closest major aiports are Istanbul Airport and Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport. January in Istanbul sees daily highs of 10°C and lows of 10°C at night. Finish your sightseeing early on the 9th (Wed) so you can travel to Moscow.

Russia's political, economic, and cultural center, Moscow remains the most populous inland city in the world, famed for its colorful history and rich architectural heritage.

On the 10th (Thu), contemplate the long history of Lenin's Mausoleum, then explore the world behind art at State Tretyakov Gallery, then take in the architecture and atmosphere at Saint Basil's Cathedral, and finally steep yourself in history at Red Square. On your second day here, contemplate the long history of Moscow Kremlin, learn about all things military at Armoury Chamber, and then explore the different monuments and memorials at Tserkov' Uspeniya Presvyatoy Bogoroditsy V Novodevich'yem Monastyre.

For maps, other places to visit, traveler tips, and other tourist information, you can read our Moscow trip builder website.

Getting from Istanbul to Moscow by flight takes about 7 hours. Other options: drive; or take a bus. Plan for colder temperatures traveling from Istanbul in January, with highs in Moscow at -7°C and lows at -12°C. Wrap up your sightseeing by early afternoon on the 12th (Sat) to allow enough time to travel back home.