Along with the Kremlin, the most recognizable landmark of the Russian capital. The first mention of Red Square dates back to the fifteenth century, and it is here that you should start getting to know Moscow’s rich history. For many years traders plied their wares, then Red Square started to be used for events, processions and military parades.
The architectural ensemble of Red Square is on UNESCO’s list of World Cultural Heritage Sites. It includes the marvelous sixteenth century St. Basil’s Cathedral, one of the most photographed objects in Europe. Also on Red Square is the State Historical Museum, the largest of its kind in Russia, and the Lenin Mausoleum, perhaps Moscow’s most unusual landmark. GUM, the country’s main shopping mall and an outstanding feat of architecture in its own right, looks out onto Red Square.
Nearest metro stations: Teatralnaya, Okhotny Ryad, and Ploshchad Revolyutsii.
An outstanding architectural masterpiece that fires the imagination with its scale and verisimilitude. The Moscow Kremlin is the country’s most important historical site, and the centerpiece for Moscow’s iconic landmarks, including Red Square.
Wonder at the magnificent history of Moscow in the Kremlin museums, admire the grandiose architecture, take dramatic photographs of the churches and palaces, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and take a walk under the vaults of the Kremlin’s ancient towers, each of which has witnessed many interesting tales. You can easily spend a whole day at the Moscow Kremlin and not not notice how fast time flies!
The nearest metro stations: Okhotny Ryad, Lenin Library, Ploshchad Revolyutsii, Alexandrovsky Sad.
Built in the middle of the sixteenth century, St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of Moscow’s most spectacular and recognizable sites.
Absorbing Red Square’s vast size and grandeur for the first time is a truly remarkable experience. However, by turning your gaze to the far end and witnessing the sun playing on the multi-colored onion domes of the unique and quirky St. Basil’s is truly special. Whether by day or night (preferably both), St. Basil’s is a must-see. It’s also fascinating inside: although dark and small, its allure is as undeniable as the poignancy of the story of its architect.
Nearest metro stations: Okhotny Ryad, Teatralnaya, Ploshchad Revolyutsii
Get ready for a deep dive — Russia’s largest national history museum awaits you! This museum may require more than one visit: it would take 360 hours to look at all the exhibits from the museum’s current collections for at least one minute each. And this will be only a small part of what riches lie inside!
Things to definitely look out for:
- the front hall, whose ceiling is covered by a giant mural depicting a symbolic family tree of Russian rulers (68 portraits!);
- the exposition “Gold” in the Byzantine Hall;
- Mstislav’s Gospel (up to 1117) in the Suzdal Hall;
- Viktor Vasnetsov’s wall frieze “Stone Age” in the hall of the same name;
- samples of ancient weapons in the Iron Age Hall.
Added bonus: this world-famous museum sits on Red Square, which can be admired at any time of day or night. It was built between 1875-1883, has been perfectly preserved to this day, and just looks great in photos.
The nearest metro stations: “Okhotny Ryad”, “Ploshchad Revolyutsii”.
A beautiful green area in the heart of Moscow strung along the western wall of the Kremlin, the Alexander Gardens were founded in 1842. They actually consist of three connected gardens, which are beautifully landscaped with attractive fountains and plenty of blooming flowers.
There are also many important historical sights, such as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, monuments to the Soviet hero-cities of the Second World War, and more. You won’t want to miss out on the Trinity Bridge, one of the most iconic bridges in the city. Stick around to watch the famous ceremony of changing the guard of honor at the Eternal Flame, which takes place in Alexander Gardens once an hour until 20:00 Moscow time.
The Alexander Gardens are magnificent any time of the year. In spring and summer they are full of flowers and greenery, autumn paints everything in bright red, yellow and orange colors, while in winter they are blanketed in snow that sparkles mysteriously in the moonlight.
Nearest metro stations: Alexandrovsky Sad, Okhotny Ryad, Ploshchad Revolyutsii.
One of the oldest museums of the capital. The main exhibition is devoted to the history and culture of Moscow, and here you will find maps from the sixteenth through twentieth centuries, perfectly preserved old paintings, and unique archeological exhibits.
The museum regularly holds festivals, lectures and other events for guests of various ages and interests. Come to the Museum of Moscow to take a deep dive into the fascinating history of the capital, and feel like a real Muscovite!
Nearest metro station: Park Kultury
One of the most monumental religious buildings in Europe, the Russian-Byzantine style of the Cathedral of Christ the Savior will blow you away. Golden domes shimmer in the glow of sunlight, brightly-colored flowers fill the surrounding beds, while, off to one side, the statue of Tsar Alexander II looks solemnly at all visitors.
You can admire the cathedral for a long time just from the outside, looking at the exquisite elements of the exterior, including sculptures and bronze reliefs. However, we recommend you also go inside and learn the history of this place, which has many exciting, sometimes tragic, but also inspiring moments. Just imagine: it took more than 20 years to build the church. Then, in Soviet times, it was blown up and a huge outdoor swimming pool created in its place. It was restored to its former glory in 1999 after five years of building work.
Nearest metro station: Kropotkinskaya
A luxurious white stone palace built in the late eighteenth century. Make sure you take some time to admire this masterpiece of world classicism after visiting the Kremlin and Red Square — Pashkov House is located right opposite, at the top of Vagankovsky Hill. There are colorful flower beds in front of the main building, and long wings on its sides that come together to form a grandiose architectural and landscape ensemble.
Today, the Pashkov House houses some departments of the Russian State Library. According to one popular legend, the mythical library of Ivan the Terrible may be hidden in the depths of the hill on which it stands.
Nearest metro stations: Biblioteka Imeni Lenina, Borovitskaya.
