Beautiful 19th century shopping arcade

Word to the wise: The poshest cafes – with Red Square views and live chamber music – are found on the ground floor. Fast food (Russian style) can be found on the top floor.

Opened in 1893, the three-tiered glass-roofed GUM department store is an exquisite reminder of how refined and unique shopping malls used to feel before mass-consumerism swept the globe. GUM’s eternally photogenic vaulted arcades are filled with the sounds of chamber orchestras and light melodies from the grand piano.

GUM's shops are largely of the modern variety, with high street names mingling with designer brands and the odd historic Russian brand – such as the highly desirable and durable Raketa watches. The GUM Gastronom food store is definitely worth checking out for its wonderful retro design and top quality gourmet goods.