A visit to the Moscow Kremlin is a must for anyone exploring Russia’s rich history and culture, but experiencing the Kremlin at night offers a unique and peaceful perspective. As the sun sets and the city lights illuminate the Kremlin’s walls and towers, the site transforms into a magical landscape full of beauty and history. While many of the Kremlin’s museums and attractions close in the evening, there are still plenty of things to see and experience, making it the perfect time to take a leisurely evening walking tour.
Here’s a guide to what’s open at night and how to enjoy an evening stroll through the Kremlin complex.
1. Kremlin Walls and Towers: A Majestic Sight at Night
Why It’s Special
While the Kremlin Walls and towers are the centerpiece of the Kremlin complex, they take on a whole new charm when viewed at night. The walls are beautifully lit, and the illumination creates dramatic contrasts between the red brick of the walls and the golden spires of the towers. The view of the Kremlin at night is one of the most iconic in Moscow.
What to See
- Spasskaya Tower: The Spasskaya Tower is a particularly stunning sight at night, with its golden star shining brightly from the top. This tower is often considered the symbol of the Kremlin, and it plays an important role in Russian culture, making it a must-see in the evening.
- Kutafya Tower: One of the oldest towers of the Kremlin, the Kutafya Tower is beautifully illuminated in the evenings, offering great photo opportunities.
- Towers and Walls: As you walk around the Kremlin, you’ll get the chance to admire all the various towers and the long stretches of Kremlin walls that surround the complex. The lighting at night gives the walls a dramatic, imposing look, adding to the atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit
- The Kremlin walls and towers are visible at any time during the evening, but the best time to see them is after sunset when the lighting is most striking, and the crowds are smaller.
2. Kremlin Gardens: Peaceful Walks in the Evening
Why It’s Special
The Kremlin Gardens are a perfect spot for an evening stroll. These beautifully landscaped gardens offer peaceful surroundings with fountains, sculptures, and well-maintained paths. While the gardens themselves are open during the day, they are still accessible in the evening, providing a serene place to relax after a day of sightseeing.
What to See
- Upper Garden: The Upper Garden is the most famous and one of the most scenic parts of the Kremlin Gardens. It offers a great view of the Kremlin walls and towers. While the fountains and flowers may not be as vibrant at night, the calm atmosphere is perfect for a leisurely walk.
- Lower Garden: This part of the gardens, located near the Moscow River, is also accessible in the evening. It’s quieter and offers a wonderful view of the river as well as the Kremlin’s reflection in the water.
- Fountains: Some fountains in the gardens are lit up at night, adding a magical touch to the atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit
- The gardens are generally open until sunset, but you can still walk along the garden paths at night. The atmosphere is peaceful and perfect for those who want to enjoy a more tranquil and quiet part of the Kremlin.
3. Red Square: A Spectacular View at Night
Why It’s Special
Red Square, located just outside the Kremlin, is one of the most popular and iconic locations in Moscow. At night, it’s far less crowded and offers a much more relaxed environment to admire the Kremlin’s walls, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and the Lenin Mausoleum, all beautifully lit.
What to See
- St. Basil’s Cathedral: One of Moscow’s most recognizable landmarks, St. Basil’s Cathedral is even more stunning at night when it’s illuminated with soft lighting. The onion domes and colorful patterns are enhanced by the night glow.
- Lenin’s Mausoleum: The Lenin Mausoleum is also lit up at night, adding a quiet yet somber touch to the square. It’s a significant site in Russia’s history, and seeing it under the lights gives it a different perspective.
- GUM Shopping Center: While the stores are closed, the GUM department store offers a beautiful sight at night. Its illuminated arches and reflections create a romantic, fairy-tale like scene.
Best Time to Visit
- Red Square is open 24 hours to the public, making it an ideal location for evening exploration. After sunset, the square is much quieter, and the lights illuminate the entire area.
4. Photographic Opportunities: Capture the Kremlin at Night
Why It’s Special
The Kremlin and its surroundings offer incredible photographic opportunities, especially at night. The contrast of ancient architecture against modern city lights creates a beautiful backdrop for your photos. With fewer crowds, you’ll have a much better chance to capture Moscow’s most famous landmarks in all their splendor.
What to Capture
- Kremlin Walls and Towers: The illuminated towers, especially the Spasskaya Tower, are among the most photographed parts of the Kremlin at night.
- St. Basil’s Cathedral: The cathedral’s vivid colors and distinctive domes are even more captivating under the night lights.
- Red Square: The view of Red Square at night, with Kremlin walls on one side and St. Basil’s Cathedral on the other, is a stunning sight that is best captured in the evening.
Best Time to Visit
- Dusk to Nightfall: The transition between dusk and nightfall is the perfect time for photography. The sky still has some light, which complements the bright lights from the Kremlin and surrounding buildings.
5. What’s Not Open at Night
While much of the Kremlin complex is accessible for walking tours in the evening, several sites are not open for tours after hours:
- Museums: Most of the Kremlin museums, such as the Armory Chamber and Diamond Fund, close by 5:00 PM. You can still visit their exteriors at night, but entry is not possible.
- Cathedrals: The Assumption Cathedral, Annunciation Cathedral, and other churches close after sunset, so you’ll be unable to enter them in the evening.
6. Practical Tips for Your Evening Tour
What to Wear
- Moscow evenings can be cool, especially in the spring and fall, so dress accordingly with comfortable shoes for walking. Consider layering clothes to adapt to varying temperatures.
Safety and Security
- Moscow is generally safe for tourists, but as with any major tourist destination, it’s best to stay aware of your surroundings, particularly in high-traffic areas like Red Square and near the Kremlin.
How to Get There
- The Kremlin is easily accessible by Moscow Metro. The closest metro stations are Biblioteka imeni Lenina (Red Line) and Alexandrovsky Sad (Brown Line). Walking from Red Square to the Kremlin takes only a few minutes.
Opening Hours
- While most of the Kremlin buildings close by 5:00 PM, the Kremlin grounds, Kremlin Gardens, and Red Square are open to visitors at all hours, and they are especially enchanting in the evening.
Conclusion
An evening walking tour of the Kremlin offers a unique experience, with the illuminated Kremlin walls, cathedrals, and Red Square providing a serene and magical atmosphere. While some buildings and museums close by the evening, the exterior of the Kremlin and surrounding attractions like St. Basil’s Cathedral and the Kremlin Gardens are all the more stunning after dark. For photographers, history enthusiasts, or anyone looking to enjoy the quiet beauty of Moscow, a visit to the Kremlin in the evening is a memorable experience.
