1. Red Square – the very heart of Moscow. The Kremlin rises on its western side, the Kazan Cathedral to the north, GUM department store to the east, and St. Basil's Cathedral to the south, while the Lobnoye Mesto platform and Lenin's Mausoleum stand on the square itself.

2. The Kremlin – the oldest part of Moscow and a unique architectural ensemble comprising 20 towers, cathedrals, squares, palace buildings, and monuments. It also houses the residence of the President of Russia and several museums.

3. St. Basil's Cathedral, officially the Cathedral of the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos on the Moat, is a magnificent monument of Russian architecture. One of the most recognisable Orthodox churches, it is stunning both inside and out.

4. The Tretyakov Gallery holds one of the richest collections of Old Russian painting and icon art, along with the finest assembly of works by the Peredvizhniki (Wanderers) movement: Vasnetsov, Repin, Surikov, Levitan, Polenov, and others.

5. The Arbat and its side streets are mentioned in countless songs, books, and films – and for good reason: virtually every building here boasts historical significance and famous former residents.

6. VDNKh (the Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). Muscovites still debate the name of this landmark. In recent years the majestic Soviet-era pavilions have been surrounded by amusement rides, cafés, and shops, though a large-scale restoration aims to return VDNKh to its former grandeur.

7. The Seven Sisters (Stalin's Skyscrapers) – seven monumental Soviet-era towers spread across the city. You should make a point of seeing at least one of them.

8. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour. The spiritual centre of Russia's capital. This majestic cathedral was faithfully rebuilt on its original site just a few decades ago.

9. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve. Set in a picturesque park dotted with gazebos, grottoes, and pavilions, it features Europe's only pseudo-Gothic palace, built in the late 18th century for Catherine the Great.

10. Gorky Park has become a favourite retreat for Muscovites since its renovation. Fresh air, lush lawns, bicycle and ice-skate rentals, concerts, and workshops – everything you need for a perfect day out.