State Historical Museum
Imposing neo-Russian building on Red Square, showcasing millions of artifacts from prehistoric times to the Romanov dynasty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
State Historical Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Imposing neo-Russian building on Red Square, showcasing millions of artifacts from prehistoric times to the Romanov dynasty.
"A treasure trove of Russian history and culture, a captivating journey through the nation's rich heritage."
🗣️ Rent an Audio Guide
Essential if you don't speak Russian. Enhances understanding of exhibits.
⏰ Go Early or Late
Avoid weekend crowds by visiting on weekdays or during late hours.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Prehistoric Relics
Journey back to ancient times with artifacts from early settlements and prehistoric tribes.
Romanov Dynasty Collection
Explore the grandeur of Russia's imperial past through art and artifacts from the Romanov era.
Neo-Russian Architecture
Admire the stunning, imposing red brick building itself, a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Language Barrier & Audio Guides
Beat the Crowds & Plan Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗣️ Rent an Audio Guide
Essential if you don't speak Russian. Enhances understanding of exhibits.
⏰ Go Early or Late
Avoid weekend crowds by visiting on weekdays or during late hours.
🗺️ Check Exhibit Themes
Rooms are themed; knowing this early helps navigate.
📸 Admire the Building
The architecture is as impressive as the exhibits inside.
Tips
from all over the internet
🗣️ Rent an Audio Guide
Essential if you don't speak Russian. Enhances understanding of exhibits.
⏰ Go Early or Late
Avoid weekend crowds by visiting on weekdays or during late hours.
🗺️ Check Exhibit Themes
Rooms are themed; knowing this early helps navigate.
📸 Admire the Building
The architecture is as impressive as the exhibits inside.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the State Historical Museum for its impressive collection spanning Russian history and its stunning neo-Russian architecture. However, the primary language of exhibits can be a barrier for international tourists, making audio guides highly recommended for a fulfilling experience. Despite this, its central location on Red Square makes it a convenient and worthwhile stop.
"Situated at the heart of the Red Square, the main entrance is at the left side of the building.
Entrance fee cost 2000 rubles.
It is a 2 floor National Museum housing great and iconic artifacts.
However, all or i mean everything is in Russian and as a tourist youll not enjoy it as much as you can since part of visiting museums is reading the historical value of pieces. That made my visit unsatisfactory which lead to finishing the trip in just an hour."
Joferd Pineda
"Another must-go in Moscow, you won't bother with little issues of language or admission as they are trivial matters.
This is a good starting point to understand historical background of this nation and it's people.
Exhibits inside were well kept and you could find this is a warm-up if you are going to visit the Hermitage Museum afterwards. hah"
joe host
"Very cool museum! Certainly get the audio guide if you aren’t fluent in Russian. The rooms all have themes and it would have been better knowing that early on.
Some of the doors you go through are not well marked that they are indeed okay to go through. And only about half of the descriptors are written in English and Russian.
The displays are beautiful. And well planned out. Wonderful museum! I went in the morning and besides a few other guests was mostly alone. Although, on the weekends there seems to be a line down the block! So be early as to skip any lines."
Jack Lawson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is centrally located on Red Square. You can easily reach it by metro to Okhotny Ryad, Teatralnaya, or Ploshchad Revolyutsii stations, followed by a short walk. +1
Yes, it's right on Red Square, adjacent to St. Basil's Cathedral and the Kremlin, making it a perfect stop on a Red Square tour.
The main entrance is located on the left side of the imposing neo-Russian building when facing it from Red Square.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is approximately 2000 rubles. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing.
Information on discounts for students, seniors, or children is usually available on the museum's official website or at the ticket counter.
Purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially during peak seasons, to save time and potentially secure your entry.
The museum is typically open daily except for Tuesdays. It stays open late, until 9:00 PM, on Fridays and Saturdays.
While specific accessibility details should be confirmed with the museum, many major historical sites are working to improve accessibility.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
A comprehensive visit can take 2-3 hours, but if you're short on time or don't use an audio guide, you might finish in about an hour.
Guided tours, including those with audio guides, are highly recommended to understand the exhibits, especially if you don't read Russian.
The museum houses millions of artifacts, from prehistoric relics and ancient tools to art and items from the Romanov dynasty.
Photography policies can vary by exhibit. It's best to check for signage or ask museum staff before taking pictures.
While some descriptions are in English and Russian, not all are, making an audio guide a valuable companion for English speakers.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are typically cafes within larger museums, and numerous dining options are available in the vicinity of Red Square.
Generally, food and drinks are not permitted inside the exhibition halls to protect the artifacts.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior architecture is stunning, especially with Red Square as a backdrop. Inside, look for grand halls and unique exhibits.
Photography rules can differ. Always check for signs or ask staff. Some areas might prohibit flash photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Given its location on Red Square, it's a great stop to combine with other family-friendly attractions nearby. Plan your visit strategically to avoid meltdowns; perhaps a morning visit followed by a break for lunch and then exploring other parts of Red Square could be a good approach.
+1🤓 History Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts
To maximize your experience, prioritize renting an audio guide to gain in-depth context for the exhibits. Consider dedicating a significant portion of your day to explore its halls thoroughly. If you plan to visit other major museums like the Hermitage, this museum serves as an excellent primer on Russian history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Russian History
Navigating this extensive history can be an immersive experience. The museum is organized into thematic halls, guiding visitors chronologically and thematically through Russia's past. While the building itself is a marvel of neo-Russian architecture, designed by Vladimir Sherwood, the true treasures lie within. The exhibits are meticulously curated, offering a tangible connection to the nation's evolution.
For those who don't speak Russian, the audio guide is an indispensable tool. It provides detailed explanations and context for the artifacts, transforming a visual experience into an educational journey. Without it, much of the historical significance might be lost, as many display descriptions are primarily in Russian.
Architectural Grandeur and Location
+1The museum's prime location on Red Square places it at the very heart of Moscow's historical and cultural center. This means it's not just a destination in itself but also a crucial part of any itinerary exploring iconic Moscow sites. Its proximity to St. Basil's Cathedral, the Kremlin, and Lenin's Mausoleum makes it incredibly convenient for visitors to combine multiple sightseeing experiences.
+1Visitors often remark on the sheer beauty of the building, noting that the architecture is as captivating as the historical treasures it houses. The exterior provides a dramatic backdrop for photographs, especially during different times of day or seasons.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit