Tretyakov Gallery
A vast museum housing over 180,000 Russian artworks, from ancient icons to modern masterpieces.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Tretyakov Gallery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast museum housing over 180,000 Russian artworks, from ancient icons to modern masterpieces.
"A true cultural treasure, offering a journey through the soul of Russia via its greatest artists. "
🎯 Use the Audio Guide
Enhance your understanding of the masterpieces with an audio guide.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across vast halls.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ivan the Terrible and His Son Ivan
Main building
Ilya Repin's controversial masterpiece depicting a tragic historical moment.
The Appearance of Christ Before the People
Main building
Alexander Ivanov's monumental work, a cornerstone of Russian religious art.
Morning in a Pine Forest
Main building
Iconic painting by Ivan Shishkin and Konstantin Savitsky, famous from Alenka chocolate wrappers.
The Unknown Woman
Main building
A captivating portrait by Ivan Kramskoi, often called the 'Russian Mona Lisa'.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Allocate Ample Time
Book Tickets in Advance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Use the Audio Guide
Enhance your understanding of the masterpieces with an audio guide.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across vast halls.
📸 Photography Rules
Check current rules; flash photography is usually prohibited.
🗺️ Plan Your Route
The chronological layout helps, but know which artists or periods you want to see.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Use the Audio Guide
Enhance your understanding of the masterpieces with an audio guide.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across vast halls.
📸 Photography Rules
Check current rules; flash photography is usually prohibited.
🗺️ Plan Your Route
The chronological layout helps, but know which artists or periods you want to see.
☕ Take a Break
There are cafes inside to rest and recharge.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Tretyakov Gallery for its unmatched collection of Russian art, calling it a cultural treasure and a journey through the country's soul. The well-organized layout and beautiful building are frequently highlighted, making it an inspiring and enriching experience for art lovers. While vast, it's considered a must-visit for understanding Russian culture.
"Kramskoy, Vasnetsov, Serov, Repin, Savitsky—to name only a few—are represented in the Tretyakov Gallery, which offers an overwhelming feast for the eyes of art lovers. The museum displays countless masterpieces I had only read about: The Unknown Woman (often called the Russian Mona Lisa), Morning in a Pine Forest (Alenka chocolate wrappers), Ivan the Terrible and His Son Ivan, and a striking portrait of Pushkin, among others. After just 40 minutes, my mind was flooded with a surge of impressions and information. With 62 rooms to explore, this is clearly not a one-day museum. The entrance fee of 700 rubles is a bargain."
Kye
"The Tretyakov Gallery is a true cultural treasure — a place where you can walk through centuries of Russian art under one roof. From iconic works by Repin and Vasnetsov to ancient icons and bold modernism, it’s a journey through the soul of the country. Well-organized, with calm halls and powerful energy.
➕
Unmatched collection of Russian art
Beautiful building and well-curated exhibitions
Easy to navigate and not overly crowded on weekdays
Audio guides and descriptions in English available"
Kristina Tochilko
"Rainy day is a perfect day for art. This gallery is a place for inspiration for all art lovers. It’s vast and better plan spending 4-5 hours there. I took audio guide and was lost in time. Love it."
Nevena Ruseva
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Tretyakov Gallery is relatively close to the Kremlin and Red Square, about a 10-minute journey. You can take a taxi or public transport. The nearest metro stations are Tretyakovskaya and Novokuznetskaya.
Yes, the main building is easily accessible via the Tretyakovskaya and Novokuznetskaya metro stations on the Kaluzhsko-Rizhskaya Line (Orange Line).
While it's a bit of a walk, it's feasible if you enjoy exploring on foot. It's approximately 2-3 kilometers from Red Square.
The metro is highly recommended for its efficiency. Taxis are also readily available, and walking is an option for those who prefer it.
Limited street parking may be available, but it's often difficult to find. Using public transport is generally more convenient.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically around 700 rubles for adults, which is considered a bargain for the vast collection. Prices can vary for special exhibitions.
Yes, it's highly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance to save time and ensure entry, especially during busy periods.
The gallery is typically open from 10 AM to 6 PM, with the last entry at 5 PM. It's usually closed on Mondays. Always check the official website for the most current hours.
While not always mandatory, booking a time slot online is advisable to avoid queues and guarantee your entry, particularly for popular exhibitions.
Discounts may be available for certain categories, such as students and seniors. It's best to check the official Tretyakov Gallery website or inquire at the ticket counter for details.
🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience
To truly appreciate the collection, plan for at least 4-5 hours. Many visitors find 40 minutes insufficient due to the sheer volume of masterpieces.
Yes, the gallery offers a journey through Russian art history that can be engaging for older children and teenagers. Consider focusing on specific, visually striking pieces.
Yes, audio guides are available and highly recommended for a deeper understanding of the artworks. Guided tours may also be offered in various languages.
Photography is generally allowed without flash. However, always check for specific signage in each exhibition hall, as rules can vary.
It can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays. Weekday mornings are generally less crowded, offering a more serene experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the gallery has cafes where you can take a break and enjoy refreshments.
Generally, it's best to consume outside food and drinks before entering the exhibition halls. Check the gallery's specific policies.
The area around the gallery offers various cafes and restaurants, providing diverse culinary choices for visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography without flash is usually permitted in most areas. However, some special exhibitions may have restrictions. Always look for signs.
The grand halls themselves, along with iconic paintings like 'Ivan the Terrible and His Son Ivan' and 'The Unknown Woman', are highly photogenic.
Tripods and selfie sticks are typically not allowed inside the exhibition halls to ensure the safety of the artworks and the comfort of other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & History Buffs
+1 Allocate a full day if possible to fully immerse yourself in the collection and its historical context. 📸 Photography Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Russian Art History
Key periods and movements are well-represented, allowing for a deep dive into the cultural and historical context of each era. From the solemnity of medieval icons to the dramatic narratives of 19th-century painters like Ilya Repin and Vasily Surikov, the gallery offers a profound insight into the Russian soul. The sheer diversity of styles, from academic realism to impressionism and the avant-garde, showcases the dynamic nature of Russian art.
+2Beyond the famous masterpieces, the gallery also houses an extensive collection of graphic art, sculpture, and decorative arts, providing a holistic view of Russia's creative heritage. The chronological arrangement makes it easier for visitors to follow the artistic progression and understand the influences that shaped Russian art over centuries.
+1Iconic Masterpieces Not to Miss
Another highlight is Alexander Ivanov's 'The Appearance of Christ Before the People,' a monumental work that took decades to complete and is considered a pivotal piece in Russian religious art. Ivan Kramskoi's 'The Unknown Woman,' often likened to the 'Russian Mona Lisa,' captivates with its enigmatic subject.
Don't miss Ivan Shishkin's 'Morning in a Pine Forest,' instantly recognizable from its use on Alenka chocolate wrappers, and Vasily Pukirev's 'The Unequal Marriage,' a social commentary that reportedly had a significant impact on societal views regarding age differences in marriage.
Navigating the Tretyakov Gallery
To make the most of your visit, consider using the gallery's audio guide. These guides provide detailed information about the artworks, artists, and historical periods, enriching your understanding and appreciation.
For those with limited time or specific interests, it's advisable to research the collection beforehand and prioritize the sections or artists you wish to see. The gallery also offers various temporary exhibitions, so checking the schedule upon arrival can add another layer to your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit