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.

Istanbul is known for historic sites, museums, and shopping. Your trip includes some of its best attractions: admire the landmark architecture of Hagia Sophia Mosque, contemplate the waterfront views at Bosphorus Strait, steep yourself in history at Basilica Cistern, and get engrossed in the history at Galata Tower.

To find other places to visit, traveler tips, maps, and other tourist information, read Istanbul online visit planner.

If you are flying in from Egypt, the closest major aiports are İstanbul Airport, İstanbul Atatürk Airport and Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport. In January in Istanbul, expect temperatures between 10°C during the day and 10°C at night. Cap off your sightseeing on the 9th (Wed) early enough to catch the flight 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 6.5 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 fly back home.