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St. Petersburg may be known as Russia's cultural capital, but Moscow easily rivals its northern neighbor. Ballet at the Bolshoi, concerts at the Tchaikovsky Conservatory, and theaters packed for Chekhov plays are among the highlights of the intense arts scene in this city with dozens of theaters and concert halls and many prestigious acting schools. From raucous, boho joints like Kitaisky Lyotchik to sophisticated "minigarch" (wannabe oligarch) hangouts, Moscow's nightlife scene has a little bit of something for everyone. Almost all the major hotels have upscale bars: those at the Baltschug Kempinski, Ararat Park Hyatt, and Golden Ring are elegant and have majestic views of the city. But you'll likely have more fun if you head out on the town and taste a little Russian hedonism, be it sipping a cocktail on the rooftop at Rolling Stone or jumping about to a guitar band at Krizis Zhanra. For those after something calmer, there are several English-style pubs like Sixteen Tons that are great for a quiet pint and a bite to eat.
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.
With its homely atmosphere, film nights, and tasty food, this club has become the top refuge of Moscow's gay and lesbian community and offers dancing and a good range of cultural events. Visitors should exercise caution when entering and leaving, though, as the bar has been subject to homophobic attacks in recent years.
Live music and tasty, affordable food draw a bohemian crowd to this cellar, whose name translates as "Chinese Pilot."
A Latin American–theme involves occasional live Latino music, though music is usually provided by DJs playing Eurodance. Drink service can be slow at night, when the staff often dances with the crowd. Show up early or you'll never get in.
A cavernous venue with free entry and cheap drinks, which caters to lovers of reggae, funk, and soul.
Live musicians perform songs from the Soviet era at this enormous retro eatery with a big choice of beers, including its own brand. The traditional Russian dishes are expensive but served up with style. Book ahead, as it gets busy even on weeknights.
R&B and hip hop hits, live music, and hookah pipes make this club a popular night spot for expats and Russian alike. Lenient face control also helps bring in the crowds.
An easygoing but stylish clientele fills this café-bar. In the evenings, the staff pushes away the tables to create a small dance floor. Live music on the weekends is mostly indie-rock, but DJs through the week play an eclectic mix of pop, rock, reggae, and funk.
Themed nights, daily happy hours, and disco music ensure there is always a party atmosphere at this lively club. Entrance is free during the week and expat nights are held every Wednesday.
This is probably the city's most reliable club for trendy, yet laid-back crowds and good DJs. It's the place to be on Thursday night. On Sunday night it turns into one of the city's most popular gay clubs.
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