GUM Department Store
Iconic Soviet-era department store on Red Square, Moscow, famed for its grand architecture and traditional ice cream.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
GUM Department Store
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Soviet-era department store on Red Square, Moscow, famed for its grand architecture and traditional ice cream.
"A real step back to the old days with lots of merchandise behind counters."
🍦 Try the Ice Cream!
Don't miss the famous Soviet ice cream – it's a taste of history!
📸 Capture the Architecture
The interior is stunning! Get your best shots of the grand staircases and unique design.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Soviet Architecture
Throughout the store
Marvel at the grand, sweeping staircases and early 20th-century decorations that transport you to a bygone era.
Legendary Soviet Ice Cream
Various kiosks
Indulge in the simple, creamy, and nostalgic taste of traditional Soviet ice cream, a must-try experience.
Unique Souvenir Shopping
Specialty stalls
Discover a wide array of souvenirs, from traditional crafts to bulk nuts and delicacies, often sold from charming ticket booths.
The Grand Fountain
Central atrium
Admire the beautiful fountain at the heart of the store, a popular spot for photos and a central meeting point.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Nostalgia
Moscow vs. Minsk GUM
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🍦 Try the Ice Cream!
Don't miss the famous Soviet ice cream – it's a taste of history!
📸 Capture the Architecture
The interior is stunning! Get your best shots of the grand staircases and unique design.
🎁 Souvenir Hunting
Look for unique gifts and local delicacies, especially from the stalls.
🚶♀️ Explore All Floors
Each level offers different shops and experiences, from fashion to home goods.
Tips
from all over the internet
🍦 Try the Ice Cream!
Don't miss the famous Soviet ice cream – it's a taste of history!
📸 Capture the Architecture
The interior is stunning! Get your best shots of the grand staircases and unique design.
🎁 Souvenir Hunting
Look for unique gifts and local delicacies, especially from the stalls.
🚶♀️ Explore All Floors
Each level offers different shops and experiences, from fashion to home goods.
💰 Price Check
Prices can be slightly higher than elsewhere, so compare if you're on a budget.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
GUM is widely praised for its stunning historical architecture and the nostalgic experience of its traditional Soviet ice cream. Visitors appreciate the unique atmosphere and the opportunity to find souvenirs. However, some find the shopping experience dated and prices slightly higher than expected.
"Universal department store "GUM" (ГУМ) in traditional regional style.
Sister department store "ZUM" (ЦУМ) is located 2 kilometers north on the same main street.
Both department stores are very popular with tourists.
+ traditional full assortment
+ historical architecture
+ friendly staff
+ good sales culture
- slightly higher prices
- no lift"
Frank G. S.
"I am really pleased to see improvement in customer service. Staff is finally smiling and helpful. There is also an elevator if you need to use for a stroller or handicap. Also there is great variety of products made in Belarus. Easy to shop for gifts."
Olga Kulik
"All you can find, everything is there, really... From kitchen stuff to jewelry and accessories, cosmetics, electronics. At the top there is also a canteen."
Szofia Tölli
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
GUM is conveniently located on Red Square in Moscow. You can easily reach it via the Moscow Metro, with stations like Okhotny Ryad, Teatralnaya, and Ploshchad Revolyutsii being within walking distance.
No, while both are named GUM, the GUM in Minsk is a separate, more dated department store. The iconic, architecturally significant GUM is located in Moscow. +1
Absolutely! GUM is directly on Red Square, making it incredibly accessible for anyone exploring the heart of Moscow.
The closest metro stations are Okhotny Ryad (Line 1), Teatralnaya (Lines 2, 3, 4), and Ploshchad Revolyutsii (Line 3). All are a short walk away.
While the historic architecture is a draw, some reviews mention a lack of elevators in older sections, which might be a consideration for those with strollers or mobility challenges.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to GUM Department Store is free. It's a public space and a popular attraction, so you can wander through its halls without a ticket.
GUM is typically open daily from around 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, but it's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially on holidays.
There is no admission fee to enter GUM. You can explore the architecture and browse the shops freely.
Yes, GUM often features special decorations and events, especially during holidays like Christmas and New Year, or for seasonal celebrations like autumn. 
Generally, photography is allowed inside GUM, and many visitors capture its beautiful architecture. However, it's always polite to be mindful of shoppers and staff.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
GUM houses over 100 stores, ranging from luxury brands to more accessible fashion, cosmetics, jewelry, and souvenir shops.
Yes, the traditional Soviet ice cream is a highly recommended experience, offering a taste of nostalgia and a creamy treat.
GUM has several dining options, including cafes and a canteen, offering a variety of food choices.
GUM is a great place to find souvenirs, with dedicated stalls selling traditional Russian crafts, local delicacies, and unique gifts.
While GUM offers a wide range of products, some reviews suggest that prices can be slightly higher, especially for designer brands.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand central fountain, the sweeping staircases, and the overall architectural details are prime spots for photography. The festive decorations during holidays also make for great shots.
Yes, GUM is beautiful year-round. It's particularly stunning during autumn with seasonal decor and in winter with festive lights and decorations.
GUM is known for its historic toilet, and while you can photograph it, it's best to be discreet and respectful.
Focus on the glass roof, the intricate metalwork, the grand escalators, and the overall symmetry of the building for stunning architectural shots.
Mornings on weekdays offer fewer crowds, allowing for clearer shots. However, the store's interior lighting can make it photogenic at any time.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While it's primarily a shopping destination, the sheer scale and unique design can captivate younger visitors. However, be mindful that some areas might be less accessible for strollers due to the historic nature of the building. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Visit during weekdays to avoid peak crowds and get clearer compositions. Don't forget to capture the festive decorations during holidays, which add an extra layer of visual appeal. +1🏛️ History Buffs
+1 Exploring its halls offers a tangible connection to Moscow's history, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the Soviet era and its architectural legacy. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Architecture
+1The interior is characterized by its grand scale, with wide, open spaces, elegant staircases, and a central fountain that serves as a focal point. The architecture itself is a major draw for tourists, offering a unique visual experience that blends functionality with aesthetic appeal. Many visitors are captivated by the sheer grandeur and the sense of stepping back into a different era.
+1During festive seasons, GUM transforms with elaborate decorations, particularly during autumn and winter holidays, making it an even more enchanting place to visit and photograph. These seasonal displays add another layer to its historical charm, attracting visitors eager to capture the festive spirit.
+1The GUM Ice Cream Experience
The ice cream is known for its pure, creamy flavor, often served in a cone or a small cup. It's a simple pleasure that has stood the test of time, with visitors often queuing up to experience this classic taste. The vendors selling it are often part of the nostalgic charm of the store.
For many, trying the GUM ice cream is a quintessential Moscow experience, a small but significant way to connect with the city's history and culture. It's a perfect, affordable treat to enjoy while exploring the vast department store.
Shopping and Beyond: What to Expect
+1 The layout, with its distinct departments and merchandise often displayed behind counters, harks back to a more traditional retail experience, which some find charmingly retro. Beyond shopping, GUM offers dining options, including cafes and a canteen, providing a place to rest and refuel.
While the shopping experience might not be for everyone, especially those seeking modern, fast-paced retail, GUM's appeal lies in its unique atmosphere, historical significance, and the opportunity to find distinctive Russian goods and souvenirs.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit