Hip Bars That Won't Break the Bank in Moscow, Russia

Moscow at Evening
Moscow at Evening | ©Andrey Belenko
Varia Fedko-Blake

Moscow has always been considered an opulent destination. Away from the rich history and architecture, a new generation of Muscovites are driving a different kind of experience. Here are the hip bars that won’t break the bank. Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

Chinese Pilot Jao Da

Stepping into spacious cellar of Kitaysky Lyotchk Dzhao-Da (translated as The Chinese Pilot, Jao-Da), you know you are in for a special night. For decades, this venue has refused to sell out to the glitzy glamour of the city center and has kept up its smoky and gritty reputation. As it is very affordable, it attracts a younger group of musicians, artists and students who add to the welcoming, unpretentious atmosphere. Predominantly a music venue, you can stumble upon live performances most days of the week, ranging from Afro Beats nights to underground Russian punk-rock gigs. Alongside this, enjoy a range of Russian beers and wines, while tucking into a laid-back menu of typical Russian soups, salads and blinis.

Gypsy

Disco ball lights

I Like Wine

Wine Bottle

As the name suggests, the bar caters to all drinkers, but especially fans of wine. Within the modest and cozy atmosphere of I Like Wine, bottles originate from all corners of the globe. It offers everything from a deep Point Noir to a crisp Sauvignon Blanc. Alongside an extensive menu of coffees and alcoholic beverages, the bar also offers tasty breakfasts, available all day long and filling lunches ranging from pizzas to spiced Buffalo wings. At I Like Wine, the owners are clearly in the know on how Muscovites want to eat and drink in a friendly atmosphere and to a tight budget.

Solyanka Bar

Since its opening in 2007, Solyanka bar has developed a reputation for being one of the hippest indie bars in Moscow. Hidden away in a private mansion, during the day it offers visitors a wide-ranging menu of fusion cuisine, spanning from the Far East to Mexico. Later, it transforms into a magnet for nocturnal city dwellers. Every weekend, internationally renowned DJs show off their skills on the decks to a space featuring weatherworn brick walls, plush second-hand furniture and exposed light bulbs. Although drinks may not be among the very cheapest, the friendly party atmosphere in the heart of the capital will certainly win you over.

Strelka

Moscow undoubtedly delivers when faced with crowds, yet Strelka bar is among the most confident in its ability to satisfy even the most discerning of palates. It attracts a cool crowd of students, designers and artists. The interior features art deco designs of the 70s and is both comfortable and aesthetically pleasing. Similarly, the cocktail menu is lovingly crafted from locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. Finally, not only is the view across the Moscow river breathtaking, but the diverse program of concerts and club nights proves exactly why this bar continues to be the headquarters of Moscow’s hipster parade.

Tema Bar

Tema is considered to be one of the oldest cocktail bars in Moscow and continues to live up to its reputation as one of the best. Its menu is impressive, with more than 150 dizzying concoctions. While you sit back and enjoy experienced bartenders juggle and set their tumblers alight with fireworks, do not forget to sample the adventurous food menu featuring Uzbek national cuisine. The bar is open 24 hours ensuring that time flies by in one of the capital’s most popular watering holes.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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