Historic Moscow Walking Tour: Red Square to Zaryadye Park

Explore Moscow's historic centre on foot, from the Resurrection Gate and Red Square to GUM, Saint Basil's Cathedral and the Floating Bridge in Zaryadye Park.

6 stopsabout 75 minuteson foot

The route at a glance

1. Resurrection Gate Moscow
2. State Historical Museum Moscow
3. Red Square Moscow
4. GUM Moscow
5. St. Basil's Cathedral Moscow
6. Floating Bridge Moscow

1. 1

   Resurrection Gate Moscow

   Welcome to the historic heart of Moscow. In front of you stands the Resurrection Gate, with its two red towers, decorative white details and the small Iberian Chapel. The gateway connects Manezhnaya Square with Red Square. Although it looks centuries old, the present structure is a reconstruction of an earlier gateway. Take a moment to admire its symmetrical design and the arches beneath the towers. Before walking through, turn towards the large red-brick building nearby. That is our next stop, the State Historical Museum.

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2. 2

   State Historical Museum Moscow

   Look up at the pointed towers and decorative brickwork of the State Historical Museum. Founded in the nineteenth century, this museum occupies a building designed to reflect traditional Russian architecture. Inside are collections covering different periods of Russian history, from ancient cultures to later centuries. Notice how the building's red walls and white details connect visually with the nearby Kremlin towers. You do not need to enter to appreciate its exterior. Now head through the Resurrection Gate and continue onto Red Square.

   Read the full guide to State Historical Museum Moscow: Tickets, Hours and What to See Show on map

3. 3

   Red Square Moscow

   You are standing on Red Square, surrounded by some of Moscow's most recognisable buildings. The long Kremlin wall runs along one side, while the historic GUM department store faces it across the cobblestones. At the southern end, the colourful domes of Saint Basil's Cathedral rise above the square. This open space has witnessed markets, public ceremonies and important events in Russian history. Walk slowly towards the centre and look around. The contrast between the fortress walls, decorative architecture and broad square makes this a memorable introduction to Moscow.

   Read the full guide to Red Square Moscow: What to See and Which Sights Cost Extra Show on map

4. 4

   GUM Moscow

   Welcome to GUM, the historic shopping arcade facing Red Square. From outside, its elaborate façade looks almost like a palace. Step inside and look upwards at the curved glass roofs that fill the long galleries with daylight. Small bridges connect the upper levels, while decorative railings and a central fountain give the interior its distinctive character. GUM is a working department store, but you can appreciate its architecture without buying anything. After exploring the galleries, return to Red Square and walk towards Saint Basil's Cathedral.

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5. 5

   St. Basil's Cathedral Moscow

   Here stands Saint Basil's Cathedral, famous for its colourful onion domes and unusual collection of connected churches. The cathedral was built under Ivan the Terrible to commemorate the capture of Kazan. From outside, it appears to be a single elaborate building, but inside are several chapels connected by narrow passages. Look carefully at the domes. Their colours, patterns and shapes differ, creating the cathedral's unmistakable silhouette. Take a moment to walk around the exterior before continuing towards Zaryadye Park and the Moskva River.

   Read the full guide to St. Basil’s Cathedral Moscow: Tickets, Hours and What Is Inside Show on map

6. 6

   Floating Bridge Moscow

   Our walking tour finishes at the Floating Bridge in Zaryadye Park. Despite its name, the bridge does not float on the river. Instead, its curved structure extends out above the water without supporting pillars beneath the projecting section. From here, enjoy views of the Kremlin towers, Saint Basil's Cathedral, the Moskva River and the surrounding embankments. Look back towards the historic centre and notice how the buildings from our walk fit together. This is a fitting place to finish your introduction to central Moscow.

   Read the full guide to Floating Bridge Moscow: Free Kremlin Views, Hours and Access Show on map