The Moscow Kremlin is centrally located, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the city’s rich history and culture. Many of Moscow’s most famous landmarks are within walking distance from the Kremlin, allowing visitors to experience the city’s iconic sites on foot. Whether you want to visit the nearby Red Square, stroll through GUM, or take in the stunning architecture of the Bolshoi Theatre, walking is a great way to immerse yourself in Moscow’s vibrant atmosphere.
Here’s a guide on how to walk from the Moscow Kremlin to some of the city’s most famous landmarks, along with approximate walking times and directions:
1. Kremlin to Red Square: A Short Stroll
Distance: ~5 minutes
Walking Time: ~5 minutes
Directions:
- The Kremlin and Red Square are adjacent to one another, so this is perhaps the easiest and shortest walk you’ll take in Moscow.
- Exit the Kremlin through the Senate Gate or the Kutafya Tower, both of which lead you directly into Red Square.
- As you walk out of the Kremlin, you’ll find yourself standing in Red Square, with famous landmarks like Saint Basil’s Cathedral, the State Historical Museum, and Lenin’s Mausoleum just in front of you.
Why Visit:
- Red Square is one of the most iconic public spaces in the world, known for its historical significance and breathtaking views. Don’t miss landmarks such as Saint Basil’s Cathedral and the GUM department store.
2. Kremlin to Bolshoi Theatre: Moscow’s Premier Theatre
Distance: ~10-15 minutes
Walking Time: ~15 minutes
Directions:
- Head out of the Kremlin via the Borovitskaya Tower and walk down the pedestrian street toward Tverskaya Street.
- Continue straight to Teatralnaya Square, where you’ll see the Bolshoi Theatre ahead.
Why Visit:
- The Bolshoi Theatre is one of the oldest and most famous theatres in Russia, renowned for its opera and ballet performances. The theatre’s stunning classical architecture is a masterpiece and an essential part of Russia’s cultural heritage.
3. Kremlin to GUM Department Store: Shopping and History Combined
Distance: ~10-15 minutes
Walking Time: ~10 minutes
Directions:
- Exit the Kremlin via the Kutafya Tower or the Senate Gate and walk toward Red Square.
- As you enter Red Square, you’ll immediately see the GUM department store on your right. It’s a large, historic shopping complex that spans the entire side of Red Square.
Why Visit:
- GUM (State Department Store) is not just a shopping mall; it’s a historic landmark with a stunning glass-roofed interior, offering a range of luxury goods, Russian delicacies, and souvenirs. It’s an essential stop for visitors to Red Square.
4. Kremlin to Alexander Garden: A Peaceful Stroll
Distance: ~10 minutes
Walking Time: ~10 minutes
Directions:
- Exit the Kremlin through the Kutafya Tower and walk toward Alexander Garden.
- The garden is located along the western wall of the Kremlin, just outside the Senate Gate.
Why Visit:
- Alexander Garden is one of Moscow’s most beautiful parks, perfect for a relaxing walk amidst its flowerbeds, fountains, and historical monuments. Don’t miss the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the changing of the guard ceremony.
5. Kremlin to the State Historical Museum
Distance: ~5 minutes
Walking Time: ~5 minutes
Directions:
- From the Kremlin, walk directly into Red Square.
- The State Historical Museum is located on the northern side of Red Square, directly opposite the Saint Basil’s Cathedral.
Why Visit:
- The State Historical Museum offers an in-depth look at Russia’s history, featuring exhibits that span prehistory, medieval Russia, and the imperial era. It’s an excellent stop for anyone interested in understanding the country’s fascinating past.
6. Kremlin to the Christ the Saviour Cathedral: A Grand Orthodox Church
Distance: ~15 minutes
Walking Time: ~15 minutes
Directions:
- From the Kremlin, walk west towards the Moscow River.
- Cross over the Borovitsky Bridge and continue along Volkhonka Street toward the Christ the Saviour Cathedral, which stands proudly on the banks of the river.
Why Visit:
- Christ the Saviour Cathedral is the largest Orthodox Christian church in Russia and a stunning example of Russian Baroque architecture. The church has deep religious significance and offers spectacular views of Moscow’s skyline, especially from the bell tower.
7. Kremlin to the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts: A Cultural Hub
Distance: ~20 minutes
Walking Time: ~20 minutes
Directions:
- From the Kremlin, head toward Mokhovaya Street and turn left at Kremlin Street.
- Walk straight for about 10-15 minutes, passing the Academy of Sciences, and the Pushkin Museum will be on your left.
Why Visit:
- The Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts is one of the most important museums in Moscow, housing a vast collection of European art, including works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Picasso. It’s perfect for art lovers looking to explore the Russian cultural scene.
8. Kremlin to the Novodevichy Convent: A Tranquil Retreat
Distance: ~30 minutes
Walking Time: ~30 minutes
Directions:
- From the Kremlin, head toward Smolensky Boulevard and walk west toward Novodevichy Convent.
- It’s a pleasant walk along the Moscow River, where you can enjoy views of both the convent and the cityscape.
Why Visit:
- Novodevichy Convent is a UNESCO-listed monastery that provides a serene escape from the bustling city. Its cathedrals, beautiful gardens, and historical importance make it one of Moscow’s hidden gems.
9. Kremlin to Zaryadye Park: A Modern Urban Park
Distance: ~15 minutes
Walking Time: ~15 minutes
Directions:
- From the Kremlin, walk towards Varvarka Street, heading southeast.
- Continue past the Kitai-Gorod district, and Zaryadye Park will be on your right, just across from the Manege Square.
Why Visit:
- Zaryadye Park is a modern park with unique landscaping and cutting-edge features like the floating bridge that offers panoramic views of Moscow. The park also has greenhouses and interactive exhibits that combine nature with technology.
10. Kremlin to the Moscow River Embankment: Scenic Views of the City
Distance: ~10 minutes
Walking Time: ~10 minutes
Directions:
- From the Kremlin, walk toward the Moscow River by heading south past the Grand Kremlin Palace.
- The embankment is a short walk from the Kremlin, offering spectacular views of the river, the Kremlin walls, and other notable landmarks such as the Christ the Saviour Cathedral.
Why Visit:
- Walking along the Moscow River Embankment provides stunning views of the Kremlin and other iconic parts of Moscow. It’s an excellent spot for a leisurely stroll or to take photos of the city’s most famous landmarks.
Conclusion: Explore Moscow on Foot from the Kremlin
Walking from the Moscow Kremlin to nearby landmarks offers an unparalleled experience of the city’s vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning architecture. Whether you’re heading to Red Square, the Bolshoi Theatre, or the tranquil Novodevichy Convent, the central location of the Kremlin makes it the perfect starting point for discovering Moscow’s many wonders. Walking allows you to absorb the atmosphere, see the city at your own pace, and gain a deeper understanding of Moscow’s unique charm.
