Moscow
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Culture
Zurab Tsereteli Museum
The Zurab Tsereteli Museum, is home to the Georgia-born sculptor’s surreal, larger-than-life works.
Bolshoi
The Bolshoi is on sparkling form after a six-year renovation – and its soaring red and gold auditorium will look even more magical during The Nutcracker, running from 28-30 December.
35mm
The programme at 35mm offers interesting foreign-language films and special seasons.
Artplay
For a dose of contemporary culture, head for Artplay, an everevolving cluster of studios, design showrooms, architecture practices and galleries. Don’t miss its rooftop winter ice rink, with fantastic city views.
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Eat
Bochonok
On a chilly day, retreat to the vaulted brick cellars of Bochonok. Menu standouts include shashlyk (shish kebabs) and tsar-style fish broth.
Okonomy Café
Okonomy Café serves up cheap and delicious Japanese okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes made with cabbage and egg), yakisoba and miso soup.
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Tip
Moscow Greeter
For free walking tours with an insider’s perspective, contact Moscow Greeter.
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Sleep
Budapest Hotel
The big draw at the Budapest Hotel (rooms from €148/RUB5950) is its location, a short stroll from both the Kremlin and Red Square. For a peaceful night’s sleep, ask for a room at the back.
Mamaison All-Suites Spa Hotel
Upscale, art deco Mamaison All-Suites Spa Hotel (rooms from €190/7,670 rubles) has 84 spacious, well-equipped suites with wooden floors, coffee machines and individual kitchenettes.
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Shop
Winzavod
A former factory complex, Winzavod is now a gallery hub with a hip on-site café. From 16-18 December, its Christmas Art Bazaar offers handmade clothing and jewellery, vintage finds and Soviet-era toys.
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Later
Mendeleev
Taking a leaf from New York’s underground bar scene, Mendeleev combines a groundfloor noodle joint and a ‘secret’ basement cocktail bar.
Arma 17
For electronic music, check out Arma 17, part of – you’ve guessed it – a converted factory.
Kitaisky Lyotchik Dzhao Da
For live folk and rock music with a laid-back vibe, try Kitaisky Lyotchik Dzhao Da.
Sixteen Tons
Sixteen Tons is a pub with a live music venue upstairs, staging up-and-coming bands.
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