Koleso Obozreniya "Solntse Moskvy"

The "Sun of Moscow" (Solntse Moskvy) Ferris wheel is a majestic attraction that has rightfully become a new architectural landmark for Moscow. It is the tallest observation wheel in Europe, soaring to an impressive 140 meters above the ground. Located in Russia, the site ranks among the top 5 tallest such structures in the world, offering guests an unprecedented level of visibility.

Moscow Sun Ferris Wheel. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The structure features 30 enclosed cabins, each capable of holding up to 15 people. The attraction completes a full rotation in nearly 19 minutes, revealing breathtaking panoramic views of the capital and its surroundings for up to 50 kilometers. For thrill-seekers, every sixth cabin is equipped with a transparent floor, creating the sensation of soaring over the city with a 360-degree view.

In addition to the wheel itself, the complex includes a multifunctional space with cafes, gaming zones, and family relaxation areas. Thanks to a climate control system, the attraction operates year-round, allowing visitors to admire the snow-covered capital in winter or vibrant sunsets in summer in maximum comfort.

To contact the complex administration or clarify visit details, please use the contact information provided below. We recommend saving these details for easy navigation upon arrival in the city.

The main reason thousands of tourists come here is the opportunity to see the city from a bird's-eye view. During the smooth ascent, the capital's iconic landmarks will unfold before you: the VDNKh pavilions, the Ostankino TV Tower, the Moscow City skyscrapers, the Stalinist "Seven Sisters," and even the golden domes of the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour. On clear days, visibility reaches up to 50 km, allowing you to spot distant parklands such as Sokolniki and the Botanical Garden.

For those seeking a unique experience, the complex offers cabins with a transparent floor—a great chance to feel a slight thrill and take some truly spectacular photographs. Furthermore, the "Sun of Moscow" is a popular venue for romantic dates and even wedding ceremonies, which are held at height in a festive atmosphere.

After your flight, you can spend time in the entertainment zone at the foot of the wheel. Here, you'll find interactive areas for children, cozy cafes, and restaurants where you can discuss your experience over a cup of tea. The complex space is designed so that every guest—from young children to seasoned travelers—can find something to enjoy.

The easiest way to reach the "Sun of Moscow" is by public transport. The most convenient route is to take the metro to "VDNKh" station (Kaluzhsko-Rizhskaya line) or take the monorail to the "Vystavochny Tsentr" stop. From the metro exit to the southern entrance of VDNKh, where the attraction stands, the walk takes no more than 5–10 minutes.

For those who prefer surface transport, buses and shuttle taxis running to the "VDNKh" or "1-ya Ostankinskaya Ulitsa" stops are ideal. If you are traveling from the city center, the metro ride will take about 20–30 minutes. You can also always use taxi services, which will bring you almost to the very entrance of the complex from the 2-ya Ostankinskaya Street side.

For drivers, parking is available on the VDNKh territory, though keep in mind that the number of free spaces may be limited on weekends. The attraction is also within walking distance of the scenic Ostankino and Sokolniki parks, making it an excellent finishing point for a long stroll.

The story of this grand structure began with the idea of replacing the old "Moscow 850" wheel, which served as a symbol of VDNKh for many years before being dismantled in 2016. Active construction of the new giant started in November 2019. The project required exceptional precision, as the structure was built in a dense urban environment close to existing utility lines.

The grand opening of the attraction took place on September 10, 2022, coinciding with the city's 875th-anniversary celebrations. The technical equipment was provided by the renowned Swiss company Intamin GmbH, a recognized world leader in the amusement industry. To ensure the reliability of the foundation, Russian engineers utilized advanced geotechnical solutions to guarantee the stability of the 140-meter behemoth.

Interestingly, the site was previously an abandoned area with a parking lot and old hangars. Today, it is a modern recreational space that not only delights tourists but also enhances the appearance of the district. The "Sun of Moscow" has become a symbol of engineering progress and the city's aspiration for new heights.

One full rotation of the wheel takes exactly 18 minutes and 40 seconds. However, to ensure your visit is unhurried and you can enjoy all the complex's facilities, we recommend setting aside 1 to 2 hours for the visit.

This time will be enough to pass through the terminal, take memorable photos against the city skyline, and perhaps grab a bite at one of the local cafes. If your visit falls on popular holidays or weekends, it is better to budget 2–3 hours, as wait times for boarding may increase.

The attraction is open to visitors year-round. On weekdays (Monday–Friday), you can ride the wheel from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM. On weekends and holidays (Saturday–Sunday), the complex starts an hour earlier—from 11:00 AM, also welcoming guests until 10:00 PM.

It is important to remember that the wheel's operation depends on weather conditions: it automatically pauses operation at temperatures below -10 °C or during wind gusts exceeding 15 m/s. Before planning your trip, be sure to check the official website to ensure that the weather hasn't affected the schedule.

Exploring the surroundings of the "Sun of Moscow" can significantly enrich your experience. The wheel is located in one of the city's most attraction-dense areas, where historical heritage harmoniously blends with modern entertainment centers.

Visiting nearby locations allows you to create a full-day cultural itinerary. Below are some interesting sites reachable by foot or transport: