Red Square is one of Moscow’s most iconic and historically significant landmarks, and the best part is that you don’t have to spend a dime to explore its beauty! While some of the buildings and museums surrounding the square require an entrance fee, there are plenty of fascinating sights and activities you can enjoy for free. Here’s a guide to visiting Red Square without buying a ticket, making the most of this magnificent space while learning about Russian history and culture.
1. Stroll Around Red Square
Why It’s Free
The entire Red Square is open to the public, and you can freely walk around and enjoy the beauty of the space without paying any admission fee. The square itself is a historical and cultural center of Moscow, offering a chance to soak in the atmosphere, admire the architecture, and take in the scenic views.
What to See
- St. Basil’s Cathedral: Marvel at the colorful onion domes of this world-famous cathedral, a must-see landmark of Russia. While there’s a fee to enter the cathedral itself, you can admire its stunning exterior and take photographs from outside for free.
- Kremlin Walls and Towers: Walk along the Kremlin’s historic walls, which have witnessed hundreds of years of Russian history. The Kremlin Tower, with its iconic Spasskaya Tower, is another iconic feature you can admire from the outside.
- Lenin’s Mausoleum: The exterior of Lenin’s Mausoleum, where the embalmed body of Vladimir Lenin is on display, is accessible for free. While visiting the interior requires a ticket, you can still walk around the mausoleum and learn about its importance in Russian history.
- The Kremlin Senate and Arsenal: While you can’t enter these buildings without a ticket, their stunning exteriors are visible from Red Square, making them an essential part of your visit.
Vibe
- Red Square offers a tranquil space for people-watching, reflecting on Russian history, or taking in the surroundings without feeling rushed or pressured.
2. Alexander Garden
Why It’s Free
Located adjacent to Red Square, the Alexander Garden is a beautiful public park open to everyone. The garden is home to important historical monuments and is a peaceful space for visitors to relax or take a stroll.
What to See
- The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier: This memorial honors the Soviet soldiers who died during World War II. It features a guard of honor and an eternal flame that’s visible to all visitors without any entrance fee.
- The Kremlin Wall and the Tombs of Russian Leaders: You can view the Kremlin Wall and the tombs of Soviet and Russian leaders who are buried along it, offering a glimpse into Russia’s history of leadership.
- The Flowerbed of the Moscow Kremlin: An arrangement of beautiful flowers along the garden path provides another free opportunity to enjoy the vibrant displays of nature near the Kremlin.
Vibe
- A relaxing and scenic park, the Alexander Garden offers a perfect spot to take a break, take photos, and immerse yourself in nature while still being right next to the historical heart of Moscow.
3. Enjoy the GUM Department Store Courtyard
Why It’s Free
The GUM department store is one of Moscow’s most iconic shopping centers, and although shopping inside will require a budget, you can visit the courtyard and exterior without spending anything. The grand architecture of GUM is a sight to behold, and the building itself is an important piece of Russian history.
What to See
- The Grand Glass Roof: The building’s historic glass roof is an architectural marvel. You can walk through the GUM courtyard and admire the ornate ceilings and magnificent arches.
- Historic Atmosphere: GUM has been a part of Moscow since the 19th century, and the exterior of the building is full of classic Russian design and elegant details, making it a great spot to take photos and appreciate Russian architecture.
Vibe
- The GUM courtyard is filled with both tourists and locals, making it a lively place to experience Moscow’s combination of history, luxury shopping, and modern culture.
4. People-Watch and Photograph Red Square
Why It’s Free
One of the best ways to experience Red Square is to simply observe and photograph its surroundings. This allows you to immerse yourself in the atmosphere and take home lasting memories of this famous space.
What to See
- Iconic Landmarks: Capture photos of St. Basil’s Cathedral, the Kremlin, and Lenin’s Mausoleum, all from various angles. The square offers endless possibilities for photography and unique views of Moscow’s historical buildings.
- Local Life: Watch Muscovites and tourists as they explore the square. You might catch a street performer, a historical reenactment, or just the busy hustle and bustle of the square.
Vibe
- Red Square is full of life, with people from all walks of life visiting for various reasons. Whether you’re looking for street art, traditional performances, or simply the general energy of the square, it’s the perfect place for people-watching and capturing the essence of Moscow.
5. The Zaryadye Park
Why It’s Free
Located directly behind Red Square, Zaryadye Park is a modern public park that offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the square. Best of all, entrance to the park itself is free, although there are paid activities inside the park (such as the Vostok Ice Cream or VR experiences).
What to See
- Floating Bridge: One of the most impressive features of Zaryadye Park is its Floating Bridge, which offers stunning views of Red Square and the Moscow River.
- Riverside Walk: Take a walk along the Moscow River and enjoy the park’s lush greenery and landscaped areas, offering a calm environment to relax.
- Cultural and Art Exhibitions: The park hosts regular art exhibitions and outdoor performances, and you can visit some exhibits for free.
Vibe
- Zaryadye Park is a perfect mix of nature and modern architecture, offering a peaceful escape while still being located right next to Red Square. It’s a great place to enjoy nature without the crowds.
6. The Red Square Courtyard and Surrounding Streets
Why It’s Free
While most of the buildings around Red Square require tickets for entry, the streets and courtyards around Red Square are free to explore. These spaces are filled with historical charm and fascinating architecture.
What to See
- Kitai-Gorod: This is the historic merchant district just north of Red Square, where you can walk through narrow alleys and explore old Russian buildings and historic courtyards.
- Manezhnaya Square: Located next to Red Square, Manezhnaya Square is a vibrant area full of fountains and sculptures. It’s the perfect place for a relaxing walk.
Vibe
- The area around Red Square is full of fascinating history, and walking through the surrounding streets will allow you to experience the old world charm of Moscow, from quaint shops to local cafés.
Conclusion
Red Square is a must-visit destination in Moscow, and fortunately, there’s much you can enjoy for free. From walking around the square itself to visiting the Alexander Garden, Zaryadye Park, and exploring surrounding streets, you can experience the grandeur of Russia’s heart without spending any money. These attractions allow you to take in the beauty, history, and culture of Moscow while still enjoying the iconic landmarks and peaceful spaces that make Red Square so special.
