Best Time to Visit the Ivan the Great Bell Tower for the Ultimate Experience - Wander Russia 2025 Guide

The Ivan the Great Bell Tower is one of the most iconic structures in the Moscow Kremlin, offering breathtaking views of Moscow and its surroundings. As the tallest building within the Kremlin complex, it has become a popular spot for tourists seeking a unique perspective of the city’s landmarks, including Red Square and St. Basil’s Cathedral. To ensure that your visit to this incredible site is as memorable as possible, choosing the right time is essential. Here’s a guide to the best time to visit the Ivan the Great Bell Tower for the ultimate experience.

1. Best Time of Day to Visit

Early Morning for Peaceful Exploration

• Why It’s Best: The early morning (right when the Kremlin opens) is the best time to visit the Ivan the Great Bell Tower for a few reasons. You’ll experience fewer crowds, giving you a more relaxed and peaceful visit. You’ll also enjoy softer lighting, perfect for photographs, especially as the sun rises and casts a warm glow over the city.
• What to Expect: Arriving early means you can also explore the Kremlin grounds and other key attractions, like Assumption Cathedral or Cathedral Square, before they get crowded. The Ivan the Great Bell Tower opens at 10:00 AM, so being there at the opening time ensures you get to enjoy the tower without the hustle and bustle of other tourists.

Mid-Morning for Spectacular Views

• Why It’s Ideal: Visiting the Ivan the Great Bell Tower in the mid-morning (around 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM) is a great option if you want to experience the tower while the crowds are still manageable, but with a bit more time to admire the views. By this time, the weather is likely to be warmer and more stable, and the light will still be perfect for photographs.
• What to Expect: The mid-morning visit also offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Moscow, and you’ll have enough time to admire the city’s architecture, Red Square, and the Kremlin walls from the observation deck.

Late Afternoon for Golden Hour Photography

• Why It’s Best: If you’re a photography enthusiast or want to capture the city in a different light, late afternoon (around 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM) is perfect, especially for the golden hour. The lighting in the late afternoon provides a softer, more dramatic atmosphere that’s ideal for stunning photos.
• What to Expect: You’ll get to experience the Kremlin as the day begins to wind down, with sunlight casting a golden glow over Moscow. The crowds tend to thin out by this time, so you’ll have more space to appreciate the views and take photos at a leisurely pace.

Evening for a Unique View of Moscow at Sunset

• Why It’s Special: If you’re planning to visit in the evening, you’ll be able to witness sunset over the Kremlin and the Moscow skyline. The Ivan the Great Bell Tower offers one of the best views of Moscow at sunset, making it a magical time to be there.
• What to Expect: The tower’s observation deck offers a unique opportunity to see the city transition from daylight to twilight, with the Kremlin bathed in the golden light of sunset and Moscow’s lights starting to shine through. The crowds are typically thinner at this time, allowing for a more peaceful experience.

2. Best Time of Year to Visit

Spring and Fall for Mild Weather and Fewer Tourists

• Why It’s Ideal: The best times of year to visit the Ivan the Great Bell Tower are during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). These months offer mild weather—not too hot or cold—making it comfortable to explore the tower and surrounding areas. Additionally, these seasons are outside of the peak tourist months, meaning fewer crowds, so you’ll have more space to enjoy the views and experience the beauty of the Kremlin without the heavy influx of visitors.
• What to Expect: The pleasant temperatures and thinner crowds create an ideal environment for sightseeing. You can comfortably spend time in Cathedral Square and other parts of the Kremlin without feeling rushed or overwhelmed by other tourists.

Winter for a Magical Snowy View

• Why It’s Enchanting: If you’re up for a more unique experience, visiting the Ivan the Great Bell Tower in winter (December to February) provides a magical atmosphere. While it’s colder, Moscow transforms into a winter wonderland, and you can experience the beauty of the Kremlin and Moscow’s skyline under a blanket of snow.
• What to Expect: The snow-covered rooftops and crystal-clear air offer stunning panoramic views, making it an incredibly picturesque time to visit. It’s less crowded during the winter months, and if you’re dressed warmly, the peaceful atmosphere and crisp weather can make your experience unforgettable.

Summer for Longer Days and Vibrant Atmosphere

• Why It’s Popular: The summer months (June to August) are the peak tourist season in Moscow. If you enjoy vibrant, lively atmospheres, summer can be an exciting time to visit the Ivan the Great Bell Tower, as the city is in full swing with many events, festivals, and outdoor activities.
• What to Expect: While summer offers longer days and more sunshine, it also brings larger crowds, so be prepared for more visitors at the tower and around the Kremlin. If you don’t mind the crowds, the warm weather and longer daylight hours allow for more time to enjoy the views and explore the surrounding areas.

3. Consider Special Events and Timing

Avoiding Public Holidays

• Why It’s Best to Avoid: Public holidays and national celebrations, such as Victory Day (May 9th), Russia Day (June 12th), or New Year’s can make the Kremlin and the Ivan the Great Bell Tower quite crowded. While these events are exciting to witness, they can make it more difficult to fully enjoy your visit.
• What to Do: If possible, try to plan your visit on non-holiday weekdays, particularly outside of the busy summer months or national holidays, to avoid the large crowds and get the most peaceful experience.

Special Hours and Seasonal Closures

• Why It’s Important: Keep in mind that the Ivan the Great Bell Tower and other parts of the Kremlin may have special opening hours or be closed for maintenance during certain times of the year. For example, the tower might be closed or have restricted access during major religious holidays or public holidays.
• What to Do: Always check the official Kremlin website or inquire at the ticket office for the most up-to-date information on opening hours and any potential closures before planning your visit.

4. Photography Tips for the Best Experience

• Best Light for Photography: The early morning and late afternoon offer the best lighting for photos, with softer light and fewer harsh shadows. The golden hour in the evening also provides warm, natural light for stunning shots of Red Square, the Kremlin walls, and the Moscow skyline.
• Use a Tripod: If you’re visiting for photography, consider bringing a tripod for better stability, especially if you’re shooting at sunset or in low light conditions.

Conclusion

The Ivan the Great Bell Tower is an unforgettable site that offers incredible views of Moscow, and the best time to visit largely depends on your personal preferences and priorities. For the most peaceful experience, visit early in the day during the spring or fall months. If you’re looking for stunning sunset photos or want to capture the beauty of Moscow bathed in golden light, late afternoon is perfect. And for those who prefer fewer crowds and a winter wonderland feel, a winter visit offers a magical, serene atmosphere.

No matter when you visit, the Ivan the Great Bell Tower provides one of the best views of Moscow, offering a truly unique experience that shouldn’t be missed.