Institute of International Education Holds a Series of Moscow Tours for Foreign Students

As part of a program to facilitate their adaptation and integration, international students of RTU MIREA took part in a series of sightseeing excursions to Moscow’s major landmarks. Organized by the Institute of International Education, the events were designed to immerse students in the rich historical and cultural landscape of the Russian capital.

The program included several routes that offered participants a multifaceted introduction to Moscow. The first excursion was a walking tour of Old Arbat, where students explored the architecture of one of the city’s iconic streets and learned about its centuries-long history — from a craftsmen’s settlement to a symbol of Moscow’s creative and intellectual life. Special attention was given to landmark buildings, the so-called “legendary houses,” whose façades feature plaques commemorating prominent Russian writers, artists, and musicians.

The exploration of the city’s historic center continued on Red Square and in Zaryadye Park. During the second excursion, students saw the Kremlin ensemble, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Manezhnaya Square. Many were particularly impressed by the chance to view the ceremonial residence of the President of the Russian Federation — the Grand Kremlin Palace. In Zaryadye Park, participants appreciated Moscow’s innovative approach to urban planning, walking across the Soaring Bridge and exploring the unique landscape zones that recreate the natural environments of various Russian regions.

The series of autumn excursions concluded with a trip to Vorobyovy Gory, one of Moscow’s most famous natural attractions. From the observation deck, students enjoyed panoramic views of the city today, stretching from the skyscrapers of the “Moscow City” business area and the domes of the Cathedral of Christ the Savior to the bends of the Moskva River. The group also visited the observation deck at the Russian Academy of Sciences, which offers views of St. Andrew’s Monastery and picturesque riverbanks. This route highlighted the harmony between Moscow’s natural landscapes and its urban environment.

“It was an incredible experience!” said a student from Syria. “Now Russian history is no longer just a number of dates to me — it’s living images and emotions. I feel connected to this city!”

Such excursions are an integral part of RTU MIREA’s educational strategy. They promote not only academic but also cultural adaptation, helping international students better understand their host country and fostering a tolerant, friendly, and truly international atmosphere at the university.

The excursions were organized by faculty members of the Department of Russian as a Foreign Language: Associate Professors Natalia Petrovna Melnichenko and Tamara Igorevna Kalichkina, and Senior Lecturer Tatyana Aleksandrovna Pavlova. The Institute of International Education plans to continue organizing events like these, giving students new opportunities to discover the diverse facets of Moscow.