With its cultural and historical significance, it is little wonder the Kremlin is one of the most visited sights in Moscow. This UNESCO World Heritage sight has long been the centre-point for Russia’s most defining historical and political events, making it a must-visit stop for those interested in Russia’s long history and future. Visiting the architectural complex and all of the sights inside can be a minefield of sorts, with so much to see and do! For those interested in maximising their experience, here is your ultimate guide to visiting the Kremlin, including all of the must-know information and the great sights inside the Kremlin walls!
Getting In
There are two entrances to the Kremlin, however neither of these are accessible from Red Square. The main entrance is located through the Kutafya tower and is where most visitors queue to enter. The second entrance is much less used, however can be found through the Alexandrovsky gardens. This second entrance is the quickest entrance to the Armoury chamber and the Diamond Fund.
As the Kremlin is at the top of every visitor’s to-do list and is one of the most frequented attractions in Moscow, it is important to arrive early to avoid queues, or at the very least limit the time you spend in one! The Kremlin opens at 10am and the ticket office opens an hour earlier – this is by far the best time to arrive and enjoy the Kremlin with less queues and crowds inside.
Take your time
The Kremlin may be geographically small, but it is condense and culturally enormous. I would recommend dedicating at least half a day to visiting the Kremlin, especially if you plan on entering the cathedrals and palaces inside.
The Fast Track Route
You can buy tickets for the architectural complex of the Cathedral Square and the Armoury Chamber online for the same price (500RUB/$10 per person) and it is much quicker to purchase your tickets online. If you don’t, you’ll have to queue twice: once to purchase your tickets and once to go through security to enter the Kremlin.
To save time on the day of your visit, be sure to purchase in advance!
What to See: Armoury Chamber & Diamond Fund
Don’t miss the Armoury Chamber and especially the Diamond Fund. The Diamond Fund is the collection of Russia’s state jewels. Inside you’ll see uncut diamonds, crown jewels, blocks of gold and the world’s largest sapphire. Equal in value to the Crown Jewels in London and Imperial Crown Jewels of Iran, it is a must visit in Moscow.
Assumption Cathedral
The Assumption Cathedral is the most important church in Russia. It is where the Russian emperors and tsars were crowned and is where and patriarchs are buried. It remains to this day the main cathedral in Russia, making it a priority for many people visiting.
Ivan the Great Bell Tower Complex
With 21 bells and beautiful gold-adorned domes, this bell tower is a striking sight. For a long time it was the tallest building in Russia and remains the tallest in the Kremlin.
Grand Kremlin Palace
The Grand Kremlin Palace was formerly the tsar’s residence and is now the residence of president of Russia. It is beautifully ornate on the outside, but even more impressive on the inside. It is not easy to visit, tours are hosted on the basis of an application from an organization, addressed to the Head of the Commandant’s service of the Federal Guard Service of the Russian Federation.
Tsar Cannon and Bell
The Tsar Cannon forms part of the artillery collection in the Kremlin. Once located on Red Square, it now stands in Ivanovskaya Square in the Kremlin. Don’t miss the Tsar bell which is equally as imposing and symbolic.
Visitors Information:
Opening hours:
The Kremlin is closed on Thursdays. It is open every day of the week except Thursdays from 10am to 6pm. The ticket office is open an hour earlier at 9am and closes at 4.30pm.
Price for Tickets:
500 RUB
Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.
