Introduction
Red Square and the Kremlin in Moscow are not only the most famous landmarks of the Russian capital but also symbols of the country itself. Anyone researching “things to do in Moscow” will inevitably find this square and fortress at the top of every list of Moscow attractions. Both sites represent centuries of history, culture, and power. For visitors, they provide a unique opportunity to step into the heart of Russia, where past and present converge. Red Square, framed by historic buildings, offers a striking panorama of onion-domed cathedrals, Soviet-era monuments, and elegant arcades. The Kremlin, with its fortified walls, golden cupolas, and museums, has been the center of political and spiritual authority for centuries. Today, these landmarks are UNESCO World Heritage sites and remain a living part of Moscow’s identity. Whether one is interested in architecture, Russian Orthodox traditions, Soviet history, or simply breathtaking cityscapes, a journey through Red Square and the Kremlin offers insights into what defines Moscow. Exploring them is not only a matter of sightseeing but also an immersion into the fabric of Russian culture. This guide highlights their history, key highlights, traditions, and practical advice to help travelers make the most of their visit.
Historical and Cultural Background
The historical and cultural depth of Red Square and the Kremlin stretches far beyond their immediate visual impact. They represent layers of Russian identity and power, each century leaving its mark on these sites. To truly appreciate their significance, it helps to trace how they developed from medieval strongholds and trading hubs into symbols recognized across the globe.
The Kremlin first appeared in the chronicles of the 12th century as a wooden fortress protecting the settlement along the Moskva River. Early Muscovites built fortifications to guard against invasions, and the Kremlin’s elevated position gave it strategic importance. By the late 15th century, under the rule of Ivan III, the old wooden structures were replaced by the brick walls and towers that still stand today. Italian Renaissance architects were invited to Moscow, giving the fortress its distinctive style that fused Russian tradition with European influences. This era cemented the Kremlin as the political and spiritual center of the emerging Russian state.
The square outside the fortress evolved alongside it. Known originally as “Torg” (marketplace), the area was a bustling site of trade. Merchants sold goods, travelers passed through, and public gatherings were held here. Its later name, “Krasnaya Ploshchad,” derived from the word “krasnaya,” meaning both “red” and “beautiful,” reflected its growing importance as a civic space. From the 16th century onward, the square became associated with national ceremonies, public proclamations, and coronations.
One of the most striking cultural developments tied to Red Square is the construction of Saint Basil’s Cathedral in the mid-16th century. Commissioned by Ivan the Terrible, it commemorated military victories and visually reinforced Moscow as the seat of divine authority. Its vibrant domes symbolized heaven’s approval of earthly power.
In the imperial period, the Kremlin remained the residence of Russian tsars until Peter the Great shifted the capital to Saint Petersburg. Even then, coronations and major rituals still took place in the Kremlin cathedrals, ensuring its continuing prestige. Red Square also grew in symbolic weight, serving as the site of state ceremonies, executions, and large public gatherings.
The Soviet era transformed the meaning of both spaces. Lenin’s Mausoleum was built on Red Square in 1924, and the area became the stage for military parades demonstrating Soviet might. The Kremlin shifted from an imperial residence to the headquarters of Soviet leadership, housing government offices and foreign delegations. For Soviet citizens, Red Square was both a place of pride and of solemn rituals tied to their national identity.
Today, Red Square and the Kremlin retain their dual role as historic monuments and living cultural hubs. The Kremlin remains the seat of the Russian presidency, symbolizing continuity of power across centuries. At the same time, both spaces host concerts, festivals, and celebrations, reminding visitors that they are not only relics of history but also active parts of Moscow’s life. Their cultural resonance lies in this blend of past and present, where medieval towers, Orthodox cathedrals, Soviet symbols, and contemporary events coexist in one space.
Key Highlights and Features
Saint Basil’s Cathedral
Saint Basil’s Cathedral is the most iconic landmark of Red Square and a symbol of Moscow itself. Officially known as the Cathedral of the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos on the Moat, it was commissioned by Ivan the Terrible in the mid-16th century to celebrate the conquest of Kazan. Its striking design, with nine chapels clustered around a central nave, is unlike any other structure in Russia. Each chapel is crowned with a uniquely patterned onion dome, painted in vivid colors that resemble flames rising into the sky. Inside, the cathedral surprises visitors with narrow corridors, intimate chapels, and walls covered in intricate frescoes and religious motifs. Once a functioning church, it is now a museum, allowing travelers to explore its labyrinth-like interior. Beyond its architectural beauty, Saint Basil’s Cathedral embodies Russia’s spiritual traditions and cultural creativity, making it an unmissable highlight of any visit to Moscow.
Lenin’s Mausoleum
Lenin’s Mausoleum on Red Square is one of the most unusual and thought-provoking Moscow attractions. Built in 1924 shortly after the death of Vladimir Lenin, leader of the Bolshevik Revolution, the mausoleum was designed to house his embalmed body in perpetuity. The structure, created by architect Alexey Shchusev, is a stark, stepped pyramid of dark red granite and black labradorite, symbolizing both solemnity and permanence. For decades, it served as a site of political pilgrimage, with millions of Soviet citizens and foreign dignitaries filing past the glass sarcophagus to pay their respects. The mausoleum also played a central role during Soviet parades, as leaders stood atop its terrace to observe military processions on Red Square. Today, it remains open to the public free of charge, though strict rules apply: no photography, no bags, and complete silence. Visiting Lenin’s Mausoleum offers a rare glimpse into Soviet history and its enduring cultural legacy.
The State Historical Museum
The State Historical Museum, located at the northern edge of Red Square, is one of Moscow’s most distinguished cultural institutions. Its red-brick façade, crowned with towers and spires, harmonizes with the Kremlin’s architecture while asserting its own imperial grandeur. Founded in 1872 and officially opened in 1883, the museum was created to showcase Russia’s vast historical heritage, from prehistoric times to the late 19th century. Inside, visitors encounter more than four million artifacts, including ancient relics, manuscripts, icons, coins, weapons, and royal regalia. Each exhibition hall is designed to reflect the style of the era it represents, making the experience both educational and atmospheric. Beyond its collections, the museum also plays an important role in research and preservation, serving as a guardian of Russia’s historical memory. For travelers seeking to understand the breadth of Russian history in one place, the State Historical Museum is an essential stop in Moscow.
The Kremlin Cathedrals
The Kremlin Cathedrals, clustered around Cathedral Square, form the spiritual heart of Moscow and showcase the city’s deep connection to the Russian Orthodox faith. These sacred buildings were the stage for coronations, weddings, and burials of Russian rulers, making them central to the history of the state. The Assumption Cathedral, built in the late 15th century, was the main church of the Russian Empire and the site of tsarist coronations. Its golden domes and fresco-covered interior reflect both power and devotion. The Archangel Cathedral served as the burial place of Moscow princes and early tsars, with tombs stretching across its walls. The Annunciation Cathedral, smaller but richly decorated, was the private chapel of the royal family, adorned with icons painted by masters such as Andrei Rublev. Together, these cathedrals illustrate the fusion of politics, religion, and art. Visitors today can explore them as museums while still sensing their sacred atmosphere.
The Grand Kremlin Palace
The Grand Kremlin Palace is one of the most opulent landmarks within the Kremlin walls, symbolizing the grandeur of imperial Russia. Constructed between 1837 and 1849 under the reign of Nicholas I, it was designed by a team of architects led by Konstantin Thon to serve as the official Moscow residence of the tsars. The palace impresses with its scale and style, blending traditional Russian motifs with neoclassical elegance. Its vast halls, gilded interiors, and ornate chambers once hosted royal ceremonies and receptions. Among its most notable rooms are the Georgievsky Hall, used for state awards, and the Andreyevsky Hall, now reserved for presidential inaugurations. Although access to the Grand Kremlin Palace is limited and available only through special tours or official events, its golden domes and monumental façade can be admired from outside. The palace continues to serve as a venue for important state functions, linking past traditions with Russia’s political present.
The Kremlin Armoury
The Kremlin Armoury is one of Moscow’s most prestigious museums and a highlight for anyone exploring the Kremlin. Established in 1808, it originally functioned as a royal workshop where craftsmen forged weapons, jewelry, and ceremonial regalia for the tsars. Today, it houses an extraordinary collection that spans centuries of Russian history and artistry. Among its treasures are the ornate Fabergé eggs, royal carriages, coronation gowns, and the Monomakh’s Cap, once used in tsarist coronations. The museum also displays priceless weaponry, armor, and diplomatic gifts from foreign rulers, offering a glimpse into Russia’s role on the global stage. Each hall is curated to showcase a different facet of imperial life, blending artistry with political symbolism. Because of its limited daily admissions, tickets to the Armoury should be booked in advance. For travelers seeking to understand the opulence, craftsmanship, and ceremonial traditions of Russia, the Kremlin Armoury provides an unforgettable experience.
GUM Department Store
The GUM Department Store, stretching along the eastern side of Red Square, is both a shopping destination and an architectural masterpiece. Built in the late 19th century and designed by architect Alexander Pomerantsev, it was originally called the Upper Trading Rows. Its elegant façade, crowned with arches and towers, blends perfectly with the historic surroundings of Red Square. Inside, the store’s soaring glass roof, intricate iron framework, and marble floors create a bright and airy atmosphere that feels more like a grand gallery than a marketplace.
During the Soviet period, GUM became the state’s flagship store, where citizens queued for goods ranging from clothing to household items. Today, it houses luxury boutiques, international brands, and traditional Russian retailers. Even those not planning to shop will find it worth a visit, as seasonal decorations, fountains, and exhibitions transform the arcade into a cultural space. GUM remains a vibrant symbol of Moscow’s blend of history, commerce, and elegance.
The Spasskaya Tower
The Spasskaya Tower is the most famous of the Kremlin’s 20 towers and a defining symbol of Moscow. Built in 1491 by Italian architect Pietro Antonio Solari, it originally served as the main entrance to the Kremlin. Its name derives from the Russian word “Spas,” meaning “Savior,” after icons of Christ were placed above its gate in the 17th century. Standing over 70 meters tall, the tower is crowned with a ruby-red star, a Soviet addition that replaced the original double-headed eagle.
One of its most striking features is the Spasskaya Clock, whose chimes have marked the rhythm of Moscow life for centuries. The bells ring on the hour and play national melodies on special occasions, echoing across Red Square. Historically, the tower was used for ceremonial processions and as the official gateway for foreign dignitaries. Today, the Spasskaya Tower continues to embody Russia’s enduring traditions, uniting history, faith, and state power in a single architectural masterpiece.
Local Experiences and Traditions
Red Square is not merely a historical backdrop; it is still a living part of Moscow. Locals gather here for celebrations such as New Year’s Eve, when the square is filled with lights, music, and skating rinks. Victory Day on May 9 brings military parades, commemorating the Soviet triumph in World War II. In winter, the square transforms into a festive fairground with stalls selling traditional Russian food and crafts, alongside a skating rink framed by the Kremlin walls.
During summer evenings, families and couples stroll along the cobblestones, enjoying the illuminated facades. The Kremlin itself is a place of deep spiritual meaning for many Russians, as its cathedrals remain places of worship during major religious ceremonies. These traditions reinforce the role of Red Square and the Kremlin not only as attractions for visitors but as a stage for Moscow’s collective identity.
Practical Information for Visitors
Visiting Red Square and the Kremlin can be a highlight of any trip to Moscow, but a little preparation makes the experience smoother and more rewarding. Below is a detailed overview to help travelers plan their visit.
Opening Hours and Accessibility
Red Square itself is open 24 hours a day and can be visited at any time, free of charge. Its atmosphere changes with the light: mornings are calm and quiet, afternoons bring bustling activity, and evenings offer beautifully illuminated facades. The square sometimes closes temporarily during official ceremonies, military parades, or large-scale public events, so it is wise to check local news or official city updates before visiting.
The Kremlin has more structured visiting times. Generally, the grounds and museums are open from Tuesday to Sunday, usually from 10:00 to 17:00. The Kremlin is closed on Mondays and on certain national holidays. Within the Kremlin, different sites such as the Armoury Chamber and the Diamond Fund operate with separate time slots and require separate tickets.
Tickets and Admission
Entry to Red Square is free, but most Kremlin attractions require tickets. The Kremlin Museum complex offers several categories:
- General Grounds and Cathedrals Ticket: Gives access to Cathedral Square and several churches.
- Armoury Chamber Ticket: Covers the museum with treasures like Fabergé eggs, royal regalia, and historical artifacts.
- Diamond Fund Ticket: For a separate exhibition showcasing gemstones and jewelry.
Tickets can be purchased at on-site ticket offices or online through the Kremlin’s official website. Online booking is recommended during peak tourist seasons to avoid long queues. Visitors should carry identification, as sometimes it is requested at the entrance.
Getting There
The most convenient way to reach Red Square and the Kremlin is by metro. Three stations surround the area:
- Okhotny Ryad (Line 1 – red line)
- Teatralnaya (Line 2 – green line)
- Ploshchad Revolyutsii (Line 3 – dark blue line)
All are just a few minutes’ walk from the square. For those staying elsewhere in Moscow, the metro remains the fastest and most reliable option, especially given the city’s traffic congestion. Taxis and ride-hailing services are available but can be slow at peak times.
Best Times to Visit
Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are considered the most pleasant times to explore Red Square and the Kremlin, with comfortable weather and moderate crowds. Winter visits can be magical, with snow covering the square and festive decorations, but temperatures can drop well below freezing, so warm clothing is essential. Summer (July to August) brings large crowds, though it also offers lively cultural events.
For photography, early mornings or evenings are best, when the light is softer and the crowds fewer. Night visits to Red Square, with the cathedral domes and GUM department store illuminated, are especially memorable.
Security and Visitor Rules
Visitors entering the Kremlin must pass through airport-style security checks. Large bags are discouraged, and professional photography equipment may require special permission. Inside Lenin’s Mausoleum, strict rules apply: no photography, no talking, and respectful behavior at all times.
Language and Signage
While some signs in and around Red Square are in English, many are only in Russian. An audio guide, printed map, or mobile app can enhance the visit. Hiring a local guide also provides valuable context and stories often missed when touring independently.
Dining and Amenities
Although there are no restaurants directly inside the Kremlin, the GUM department store on Red Square houses several cafés and eateries ranging from casual snack bars to elegant dining spots. Public restrooms are available inside GUM and at various points near the square.
Insider Tips
- Arrive early in the morning to photograph Red Square without large crowds.
- Visit the Kremlin Armoury with a guided tour to fully appreciate the treasures and their history.
- If visiting in winter, combine sightseeing with ice skating on Red Square’s seasonal rink for a unique memory.
- Explore nearby streets such as Nikolskaya Street, which offers historic facades, cafés, and a lively pedestrian atmosphere.
- Respect the solemnity of Lenin’s Mausoleum by keeping quiet and following the strict rules.
- Look for evening light shows on Red Square’s buildings during major festivals; they provide spectacular photo opportunities.
Conclusion
Red Square and the Kremlin are more than Moscow attractions; they are the city’s cultural and historical soul. Walking through these spaces, one encounters the grandeur of imperial Russia, the echoes of Soviet parades, and the living traditions of modern Moscow. For travelers compiling a list of things to do in Moscow, few experiences rival the sense of awe inspired by standing before Saint Basil’s Cathedral or hearing the Kremlin chimes echo across the square. Visiting these sites is not only about sightseeing but also about understanding Russia’s resilience, creativity, and identity. Whether during a festive winter evening or a bright summer day, Red Square and the Kremlin offer a journey through centuries in just a few steps. They remain essential landmarks for anyone who wants to connect with the heart of Russia and gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s enduring spirit.