Visit Arbat and feel the magic of it!
Arbat is one of the top places I suggest you visit.
This beautiful pedestrian street stretches from Smolenskaya Square (near the Golden Ring hotel) all the way down to the center.
The street is populated by countless artists. They can draw almost anything, from the portraits of your loved ones to Hollywood celebrities. It's your call.
Even if you don't plan to order a picture, the mere presence of these people creates a special charm.
Freelance performers add to that magic atmosphere. Don't be deceived by their weird looks - some of the performances are stunning.Just stop and watch for a while. You don't have to pay unless you like the acting.
There is even a local version of Hollywood boulevard. Somewhere in the center, you can see the pavement engraved with names. This is especially popular among the newlyweds.
Frankly, I don't get it. Why pay to have people walk over your name?
But it's surely nice to watch when your name is not there.
Looking for souvenirs? The street is covered with souvenir stalls. The choice is huge.From Soviet army's gas masks, to army generals' hats, to Che Guevara t-shirts!
The famous Matrioshkas (Russian nesting dolls) have a special, privileged place on the shelves.
They come in all forms and sizes. The drawings vary from classic Russian motifs to Gorbachev and Yeltsin.
Haven't seen the dolls with Putin, though. I wonder why, he he...
The street is a historic landmark as well. Russian nobility including Alexander Pushkin resided there. In fact, there is even a small Pushkin's museum.
If you get near Smolenskaya Square, you can see the building of foreign office. This so-called "Stalin's Skyscraper" is a remnant of Communist era. Some even call it "Wedding cake". Here's why (look at the tallest building).
A famous Russian folk singer,bard and poet Bulat Okudzhava, dedicated several of his songs to Arbat.
There are many restaurants, cafes and bars. Some of them,such as "Mu-Mu", have reasonable prices.
Others, such as "Sbarro" and "Hard Rock Cafe",are more expensive. Choose whatever fits your budget best!
There are many luxurious shops present. In general, I don't recommend them. The prices are huge, and their offer is nothing special. You can buy same things cheaper in other parts of town.
As you can see, this place is definitely worth a visit. Unless you are really busy, I suggest you pick a time to spend on that wonderful street.
Travel by metro? Get to Smolenskaya station, it's two minutes by feet.
See you on Arbat!
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