A Spa Day in Moscow
How to Become a True Moscow Beauty
There's a reason Russian women are considered among the most beautiful in the world. This isn't just about genetics or that elusive Slavic girl aesthetic — it's about the art of self-care. Nowhere is this more evident than in the ritual of the Russian banya. You might have experienced a Finnish sauna by a peaceful lake or tried a soap massage in a Turkish hammam, but trust us — there's nothing quite like the invigorating ritual of the venik (birch whisk) or a scrub-down with sugared cranberries. Long after you've left Moscow, the warmth of the banya — and the glow it produces — will stay with you.
Divnica
This spa originally hails from beyond the Ural Mountains and has found its home on Novaya Basmannaya Street in Moscow. The entrance — a carved red fence — gives you a hint: it is unmistakably Russian. Divniсa uses its own signature line of cosmetics, made with herbs foraged in the forests around Lake Baikal, and offers authentic Russian massages (none of that ubiquitous Thai stuff here). Spa treatments feature honey, pine needles, wild berries, and milk — ingredients that feel quintessentially Russian. And yes, a good steam in an aromatic sauna is very much part of the deal.
Prices:
Massage — from 8000 RUB
Spa programme — from 18 000 RUB
Address: Bumazhny Drive, 4
Aldo Coppola
Dreaming of leaving Moscow with that perfect haircut? Look no further. Aldo Coppola salons combine a great vibe, seriously talented stylists, and an ever-evolving menu of services. You can book up to six treatments in one appointment and walk out feeling like a whole new person.
Prices:
Women's haircut — from 18 400 RUB
Address: Noviy Arbat Street, 19
Buro.Beauty
A sleek, modern salon located at Trekhgornaya Manufactory, not far from Moscow City — convenient if you're planning a classic Russian lunch at Uhvat afterwards. It's the kind of place where the energy of the city meets a genuine commitment to self-care. Ideal if you've got a special evening ahead (the theatre, perhaps?) and want some quality time getting ready.
Prices:
Women's haircut — from 10 600 RUB
Makeup — from 8600 RUB
Brow shaping — from 3500 RUB
Manicure — from 4300 RUB
Address: Rochdelskaya Street, 15с7
Contora Lisovets
Tucked away in a quiet lane near Sretenka, this salon was founded by Vlad Lisovets, a well-known name in Russian styling. Come here for a haircut that feels current, a fresh colour, or just a chat with professionals who can help you refine your style. The team — hairdressers, stylists, colourists — can guide you towards something radically new or simply give your current look a subtle upgrade.
Prices:
Women's haircut — from 5600 RUB
Blow-dry — from 3500 RUB
Address: Selivyorstov Lane, 1/26
White Garden
Pure luxury on the second floor of the Hotel Metropol: the perfect next step after breakfast at the hotel's stunning restaurant, where you can enjoy caviar and champagne beneath a gorgeous domed ceiling. The dream scenario? Book a blow-dry and makeup here before crossing the street to the Bolshoi Theatre. Regulars rave about the skilled team and their ability to pack plenty of treatments into a limited time.
Prices:
Women's haircut — from 13 700 RUB
Blow-dry — from 6000 RUB
Day makeup — from 10 500 RUB
Classic manicure — from 4700 RUB
Address: Teatralny Drive, 2
