Visiting the Tsar Cannon and the Kremlin in one day is a rewarding experience that allows you to explore some of Russia’s most iconic historical landmarks. The Tsar Cannon is a remarkable piece of Russian history, and the Kremlin is home to a wealth of architectural beauty, cultural heritage, and royal history. To make the most of your time and avoid missing out on key attractions, here’s a practical guide on how to visit the Tsar Cannon and the Kremlin in a single day.
1. Start Your Day Early at the Kremlin
The Kremlin opens at 9:00 AM and is best explored in the morning to avoid the large crowds that tend to fill the complex later in the day. Arriving early will give you more time to appreciate the Kremlin’s history, architecture, and the Tsar Cannon without feeling rushed.
Where to Enter:
- The main entrance to the Kremlin is through the Kutafya Tower or Senate Gate. From there, you’ll walk into the Kremlin grounds and begin your exploration.
Ticket Information:
- You’ll need a Kremlin ticket to access the Tsar Cannon and other Kremlin landmarks. The ticket grants access to multiple attractions inside the Kremlin, such as the Annunciation Cathedral, Assumption Cathedral, Ivan the Great Bell Tower, and the State Armoury.
It’s a good idea to buy your ticket online in advance to skip the lines, or purchase it at the ticket office on-site.
Tip:
If you plan to visit multiple Kremlin attractions, consider purchasing a combined ticket for better value. This ticket gives you access to several sites at once, including the Tsar Cannon and other museums and cathedrals.
2. Visit the Tsar Cannon
The Tsar Cannon is located near Ivanovskaya Square, just outside the Annunciation Cathedral. This massive cannon, which weighs over 39 tons, is an important historical piece of military artillery from the 16th century. It has never been fired but is an impressive sight, particularly with its size and the decorative bronze reliefs that adorn it.
What to See:
- Tsar Cannon’s Size: Take time to marvel at the huge size of the cannon, one of the largest in the world.
- Decorative Details: Admire the intricate bronze reliefs on the cannon’s carriage, which depict scenes from Russian history.
The Tsar Cannon is easily accessible and requires just 10-15 minutes to explore. Don’t rush; spend time soaking in the historical context, particularly its role in the military and Russian monarchical history.
3. Explore Ivanovskaya Square and Surroundings
After visiting the Tsar Cannon, take some time to explore Ivanovskaya Square. It’s a central space in the Kremlin and surrounded by historical buildings, including the Patriarch’s Palace, which is open to visitors.
What to See in Ivanovskaya Square:
- The Tsar Bell: Close to the Tsar Cannon, the Tsar Bell is the largest bell in the world and is a must-see. Its impressive size and history make it a fascinating counterpart to the cannon.
- Patriarch’s Palace: If you have time, explore the Patriarch’s Palace and Cathedral of the Deposition of the Robe, both of which are located in Ivanovskaya Square. These are key sites in the Kremlin and offer a glimpse into Russian Orthodox and royal history.
Spend around 30 minutes to an hour exploring Ivanovskaya Square and its nearby attractions. If you’re particularly interested in Russian religious history, consider spending more time inside the Patriarch’s Palace.
4. Visit the Kremlin Cathedrals and Other Landmarks
After exploring the Tsar Cannon and Ivanovskaya Square, head to the Cathedral Square, which is home to some of the Kremlin’s most beautiful churches, including the Assumption Cathedral and Annunciation Cathedral. These cathedrals are rich in history and artistic beauty.
What to See:
- Assumption Cathedral: The most important cathedral in the Kremlin, it was used for the coronation of tsars. It features beautiful frescoes and icons.
- Annunciation Cathedral: Known for its golden domes and stunning iconostasis, this cathedral was the private chapel of the Russian tsars.
Additional Sites:
- State Armoury: The State Armoury museum holds a remarkable collection of royal treasures, ceremonial weapons, and imperial regalia. If you have time, it’s worth visiting this museum, which is just a short walk from Cathedral Square.
Allow 1.5 to 2 hours for visiting the Kremlin cathedrals and exploring the surrounding museums.
5. Take a Break for Lunch
After a morning of exploration, take a break and enjoy lunch. The Kremlin offers a few options for dining, including small cafés within the complex. You can also head to nearby areas, such as Zaryadye Park or Red Square, where there are plenty of restaurants offering traditional Russian dishes.
6. Climb the Ivan the Great Bell Tower
If you still have time and energy, head to the Ivan the Great Bell Tower for some of the best views in Moscow. The observation deck at the top provides a 360-degree panoramic view of the Kremlin, Red Square, and Moscow River.
What to See:
- The view from the Ivan the Great Bell Tower is one of the best in the city, offering a great opportunity for photographs of Moscow.
- The bell tower itself is an important historical landmark, and you can explore its bells and their mechanisms.
Allow about 30-45 minutes to visit the Ivan the Great Bell Tower and enjoy the view.
7. Stroll Through Red Square
After visiting the Kremlin, take some time to stroll through Red Square, which is just outside the Kremlin walls. Here you’ll find several famous landmarks, including:
- Saint Basil’s Cathedral: Known for its colorful onion domes, this cathedral is a symbol of Russia.
- Lenin’s Mausoleum: The resting place of Vladimir Lenin.
- GUM Department Store: A historic shopping mall with beautiful architecture and high-end stores.
Conclusion: A Day Well-Spent
To visit the Tsar Cannon and the Kremlin in one day, follow this itinerary:
- Arrive early at the Kremlin and get your ticket (preferably online).
- Start with the Tsar Cannon, then explore Ivanovskaya Square.
- Visit Cathedral Square and the Kremlin cathedrals (Assumption, Annunciation, and others).
- Take a break for lunch and continue to the State Armoury or Ivan the Great Bell Tower.
- If time permits, visit Red Square and explore surrounding landmarks like Saint Basil’s Cathedral.
You can easily spend around 5-6 hours at the Kremlin to explore the Tsar Cannon, the Kremlin cathedrals, and other historic sites, including the State Armoury and Ivan the Great Bell Tower. This itinerary ensures a full but manageable day of sightseeing.