The Kremlin in Moscow is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, brimming with history, culture, and architecture. As the historical seat of power for Russian tsars and Soviet leaders, visiting the Kremlin can feel like stepping into the heart of Russia’s past. While the Kremlin can be an expensive experience with its museums, cathedrals, and Palaces, there are also ways to experience its rich heritage without breaking the bank.
This guide will help you explore the Kremlin on a budget, offering free attractions, tips for saving money, and guidance on how to make the most of your visit without overspending.
1. Visit the Kremlin Walls and Towers
Why Visit:
The Kremlin walls and towers are an iconic symbol of Moscow, and exploring the Kremlin grounds can be done for free! The Kremlin’s exterior, including its towers and fortifications, is open to the public, and it’s an excellent way to experience this historic landmark without needing a ticket.
Best Things to Do:
- Walk along the Kremlin Walls: You can explore the Kremlin’s exterior walls and enjoy a great view of Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and the Moscow River.
- Admire the Kremlin Towers: The Spasskaya Tower and Senate Tower are some of the most famous landmarks on the Kremlin’s walls. While you cannot enter most of the towers without a ticket, their grandeur and design can be enjoyed from the public walkways.
Tip:
- Spend time photographing the Kremlin’s distinctive architecture and landscapes from different angles, especially as the golden hour approaches, when the light creates beautiful contrasts.
2. Explore the Alexander Garden
Why Visit:
The Alexander Garden is a beautiful, public park located next to the Kremlin’s walls. It is one of the oldest gardens in Moscow and a perfect place to visit for free. This peaceful garden offers great views of the Kremlin, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and several monuments to Soviet history.
Best Things to Do:
- Stroll through the park: Wander the well-maintained pathways while taking in the garden’s sculptures, flowerbeds, and lush greenery.
- Relax by the fountains: Enjoy the calm atmosphere of the park’s fountains or sit by the riverbank for a relaxing break from the crowds.
- Visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier: The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which honors the fallen soldiers of WWII, is located here. The changing of the guard ceremony happens regularly and is a meaningful experience.
Tip:
- Alexander Garden is especially beautiful in spring and summer, when the flowers are in full bloom and the park is at its most vibrant.
3. Attend the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Why Visit:
The changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, located in Alexander Garden, is one of Moscow’s most moving public ceremonies. The guard changes every hour, and the military procession is a spectacle worth watching for free. It’s an integral part of the city’s historical and military heritage, paying tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for Russia.
Best Things to Do:
- Watch the Ceremony: Make sure to arrive a few minutes early to find a good spot and watch the guards in their ceremonial uniforms as they perform the changing of the guard.
- Photograph the Moment: Capture the ceremonial elements, the soldiers in uniform, and the flame of the Eternal Flame.
Tip:
- The changing of the guard occurs every hour, but the midday ceremony is often the most popular and vibrant, with more guards and visitors in attendance.
4. Enjoy the Views from the Kremlin Embankment
Why Visit:
For those who want to enjoy the Kremlin’s grandeur from a different perspective, the Kremlin embankment along the Moscow River is an excellent spot for stunning views, and it’s completely free. This quiet area is perfect for a leisurely walk, offering views of the Kremlin and surrounding historical buildings.
Best Things to Do:
- Walk along the riverbank: Stroll along the Moscow River to capture great views of the Kremlin’s towers, walls, and the Cathedral of Christ the Savior on the other side of the river.
- Take photos: This location is perfect for capturing the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and the Moscow skyline in one shot.
Tip:
- The embankment is particularly peaceful in the early morning or late evening, so if you want fewer tourists in your photos, those times are ideal.
5. Explore the Red Square for Free
Why Visit:
Though not technically part of the Kremlin, Red Square is adjacent to it and forms a major part of the overall Kremlin experience. The square is open to the public for free, and it offers one of the best opportunities to experience the heart of Moscow without any cost. You can admire the Kremlin walls, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and GUM, and the square is the perfect starting point for your Kremlin visit.
Best Things to Do:
- Walk around Red Square: Stroll across the cobblestone paths, taking in the sights of Lenin’s Mausoleum, the State Historical Museum, and the Kremlin’s red walls.
- Admire St. Basil’s Cathedral: Take time to photograph the stunning onion domes of St. Basil’s Cathedral with the Kremlin’s iconic brick walls in the background.
- Visit GUM Department Store: Explore the GUM Department Store without purchasing anything, admiring the beautiful 19th-century architecture.
Tip:
- If you’re visiting Red Square in the summer, try to get there early to avoid crowds and enjoy the square before it gets busy.
6. Check Out the Museum of the History of the Gulag (Located Near the Kremlin)
Why Visit:
If you’re interested in Soviet history, you can visit the Museum of the History of the Gulag, located just a short distance from Red Square and the Kremlin. While the admission is not free, the museum itself is affordable and offers a deep dive into the history of Soviet political repression.
Best Things to Do:
- Learn About Soviet History: Discover how the Gulag system was used during the Soviet era to punish political dissidents, laborers, and those who opposed the government.
- See Personal Stories: The museum features personal accounts, documents, and artifacts from the time of the Soviet Gulag system.
Tip:
- Though this museum requires a ticket, its affordable price makes it a budget-friendly option for anyone interested in the history of the Soviet Union and its impact on Russian society.
7. Free Events and Festivals in Red Square
Why Visit:
Throughout the year, Red Square hosts a variety of free events and festivals, from public concerts and parades to traditional celebrations. Events like Victory Day, Russia Day, and Winter Festivities are all free to attend and often take place in and around Red Square.
Best Things to Do:
- Attend a Public Parade: If you’re visiting during Victory Day (May 9) or Russia Day (June 12), you can witness grand military parades and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
- Participate in Local Festivals: During special national holidays, Red Square often hosts cultural performances, food markets, and public exhibitions that are free to the public.
Tip:
- Check the events calendar to see if there are any special festivities during your visit.
Conclusion
Visiting the Kremlin and surrounding areas doesn’t have to be expensive. With a combination of free attractions like the Kremlin walls, Red Square, and Alexander Garden, as well as a variety of public events, it’s easy to experience Moscow’s historical heart without spending much money. For those on a budget, these free experiences allow you to immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Moscow while saving money. By planning ahead and focusing on the accessible aspects of the Kremlin and Red Square, you can enjoy an enriching and affordable visit to one of the world’s most iconic locations.