Red Square & Kremlin, Moscow

Overview

Red Square is Moscow's central square and Russia's most famous landmark, covering about 73,000 square metres. The State Historical Museum stands at its northern end, the GUM department store, Russia's largest, runs along the east, and at the southern end the multicoloured onion domes of St Basil's Cathedral have become a symbol of the country. The Kremlin, seat of the Russian government, contains several churches and museums within its walls.

History

Red Square dates to the 15th century and began as a trading market; frequent fires earned it the name Fire Square before it became Red Square, since krasnaya meant beautiful in old Russian. In the Soviet era the square was the setting for parades and major ceremonies. The Kremlin and Red Square became a World Heritage Site in 1990.

Highlights

• •The colourful onion domes of St Basil's Cathedral, Russia's signature image
• •Red Square turning into an ice rink in winter, with a lively Christmas market
• •Several museums inside the Kremlin
• •The square at its most imposing under night lighting

Practical tips

• •Red Square is free to visit; the Kremlin interior requires a ticket
• •Avoid Thursdays, when some areas are closed
• •Winter is bitterly cold, down to minus 20 degrees, so dress warmly
• •The metro is the easiest way to get around Moscow

Practical information

Best time

May to September

Tickets

Red Square free; the Kremlin about RUB 700

Opening hours

Red Square open all day; palace interiors 10:00 to 17:00

Local food

Borscht, Russian dumplings and blini

Getting around

The metro network is extensive and beautifully decorated; multi-ride tickets are the best value

Visa

A visa is required; some border crossings accept an e-visa, subject to the latest official Russian announcements.

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