4 Best Nightlife in Moscow, Russia

The superbly positioned summer terrace overlooking the Moscow River and the Cathedral of Christ Our Savior is the main attraction of this upscale bar, which is part of the innovative Institute of Architecture and Design. The open-air theatre out the back hosts film screenings and lectures.

What's considered by many to be Moscow's best night out presents an eclectic mix of all the best bits of the city's unique nightlife: bar-top dancing, creative cocktails, a huge roof terrace, and, of course, rigid face control. Some 3,000 clubbers are said to pass through this joint on an average weekend, so expect to have to wait to get in.

Ryumochnaya. For a true Russian vodka-drinking experience, head to this 125-year-old tavern whose name literally translates as "shot bar." Drinks are amazingly affordable and there's a large variety of zakuski, tasty bites that help the booze go down, like salmon sandwiches, boiled prawns, and fried potatoes. 22/2 ul. Bolshaya Nikitskaya, bldg. 1, Bolshaya Nikitskaya, Moscow, Moscow, 125009. 495/691–5474. Metro: Okhotny Ryad.

Several rooms in this high-ceilinged converted mansion double up as a great café and restaurant during the day and a dance club after hours. Thursday through Saturday are laid-back techno and funk club nights, a top choice among Moscow's hipster youth, with free entry on Thursdays.