Varvarka Street Moscow
Moscow's ancient Varvarka Street, a historic gem with centuries-old churches, the Old English Court, and stunning night illuminations.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical illumination
Varvarka Street Moscow
Best Time
Magical illumination

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Moscow's ancient Varvarka Street, a historic gem with centuries-old churches, the Old English Court, and stunning night illuminations.
"It really is very beautiful, both day and night, perhaps even better at night..."
🚶♀️ Walk from Red Square
Easily accessible from Red Square, making it a perfect addition to your sightseeing route. :walking:
✨ Evening Glow
The street is stunning at night with beautiful lighting; consider visiting after sunset for a magical experience. :sparkles:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Churches
Along Varvarka Street
Marvel at centuries-old churches, beautifully restored and illuminated, showcasing Moscow's rich religious heritage.

Old English Court
Varvarka Street
Step back in time at the oldest official foreign representative office in Moscow, a testament to historical international ties.

Romanov Ancestor Chambers
Varvarka Street
Explore the chambers of the Romanov dynasty's ancestors, offering a glimpse into Russia's imperial past.

Nighttime Illumination
Varvarka Street
Experience the street's magical transformation after dark, with enchanting lights highlighting its historical architecture.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Varvarka Street
Navigating Varvarka Street's Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk from Red Square
Easily accessible from Red Square, making it a perfect addition to your sightseeing route. :walking:
✨ Evening Glow
The street is stunning at night with beautiful lighting; consider visiting after sunset for a magical experience. :sparkles:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes to explore the cobblestone streets and historical sites at your own pace. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the History
Bring your camera to photograph the ancient churches and beautifully restored buildings. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk from Red Square
Easily accessible from Red Square, making it a perfect addition to your sightseeing route. :walking:
✨ Evening Glow
The street is stunning at night with beautiful lighting; consider visiting after sunset for a magical experience. :sparkles:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes to explore the cobblestone streets and historical sites at your own pace. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the History
Bring your camera to photograph the ancient churches and beautifully restored buildings. :camerawithflash:
🗺️ Explore Opposite Side
Don't forget to check out the other side of the street; it's also very cool and historically significant. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Varvarka Street is widely praised as one of Moscow's most beautiful and historically significant streets, captivating visitors with its ancient churches and restored buildings. Many find it particularly enchanting when illuminated at night, offering a magical atmosphere. While the street itself is free to explore, some visitors note that certain churches may have admission fees.
"It is a 7 wonder of world"
Ilaya Bharathi
"Probably the most beautiful street. One of the oldest in Moscow. The road to Vladimir ran along it. Now all the houses and churches have been restored and beautifully lit. It really is very beautiful."
Antonius
"It is believed that the street was named after the Church of St. Barbara. At different times it was called Varskaya, Vsekhsvyatskaya, Stepana Razina. And the meaning of the street was different: trading, prikaznaya, just a district with communal apartments. Now, after the demolition of the Rossiya Hotel, the street has become more open and historical: churches, a view of Zaryadye, Gostiny Dvor. It is beautiful here both day and night. At night, perhaps, even better..."
Олег Васильевич
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Varvarka Street is conveniently located right next to Red Square, making it easily accessible by foot. You can also reach it via the Moscow Metro, with Kitay-gorod station being the closest. Many guided tours of Moscow include Varvarka Street as a key stop.
Absolutely! Varvarka Street begins just a stone's throw from Red Square, making it a very easy and pleasant walk. It's a natural extension of exploring the heart of Moscow.
The best way to explore Varvarka Street is on foot. This allows you to appreciate the intricate details of the ancient churches and historical buildings at your own pace. Consider joining a walking tour for deeper historical insights.
Yes, the closest metro station to Varvarka Street is Kitay-gorod. From there, it's a short walk to reach the street and its historical attractions.
Yes, taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off near Varvarka Street. However, be aware that some central areas might have traffic restrictions, so it's good to check in advance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking along Varvarka Street itself is free and open to the public. You can admire the exteriors of the churches and historical buildings without purchasing tickets.
While walking the street is free, some of the churches may have small entrance fees or request donations for entry into their interiors or museums. It's best to check on-site for current pricing.
Varvarka Street is an open public space and is accessible at all times. However, individual churches and museums along the street will have their own specific operating hours.
Yes, the Old English Court is a museum located on Varvarka Street and is open to visitors. It's recommended to check their official website for current opening hours and admission fees.
Many visitors find the street particularly beautiful in the early evening when the lights come on, creating a magical atmosphere. Early mornings offer a more peaceful experience with fewer crowds.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire street is photogenic! Key spots include the facades of the ancient churches, the Old English Court, and the views towards the Kremlin. The street looks especially stunning when illuminated at night.
Photography policies can vary between churches. Some may allow it freely, while others might restrict it or charge a small fee. Always check for signage or ask permission before taking photos inside.
For dramatic lighting, the 'golden hour' just before sunset is ideal. However, the street's nighttime illumination offers a unique and captivating photographic opportunity.
Yes, drone photography is generally restricted in central Moscow, especially near historical sites and the Kremlin. It's advisable to check current regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both the grand architecture and street scenes. A wide-angle lens can be useful for fitting the churches into the frame, and a tripod is highly recommended for nighttime shots.
🎫 🏛️ History & Culture
Varvarka Street is one of Moscow's oldest streets, first mentioned in 1380. It was a vital trade route and has witnessed centuries of Russian history, with many important churches and buildings lining its path.
The street is believed to be named after the Church of St. Barbara, which was located here. It has had various names throughout history, including Vsekhsvyatskaya and Stepana Razina.
You can see several ancient churches like the Church of the Resurrection of the Word, the Church of St. George, and the Church of St. Barbara. The Old English Court and the Romanov Ancestor Chambers are also significant historical sites.
Historically, Varvarka Street served as a major thoroughfare, a trading center, and a residential area for various classes. It was part of the ancient road leading to Vladimir.
No, the street has undergone significant changes. After the fire of 1812, many buildings were rebuilt. The demolition of the large Rossiya Hotel in recent times has made the street more open and highlighted its historical architecture.
For Different Travelers
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👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enduring History of Varvarka Street
Walking along Varvarka Street is like stepping back in time. You'll encounter a remarkable collection of beautifully restored churches, each with its own unique architectural style and history. Among the most notable are the Church of the Resurrection of the Word, the Church of St. George, and the Church of St. Barbara. Beyond religious sites, the street is home to significant secular historical landmarks, including the Old English Court, which stands as the oldest official representative office of a foreign country in Moscow, and the Chambers of the Romanov Ancestors, offering a direct link to Russia's imperial lineage.
The street's appearance has evolved significantly over time. Following the devastating fire of 1812, many of its structures were rebuilt. More recently, the demolition of the massive Rossiya Hotel opened up the street, allowing its historical charm and architectural treasures to be more prominently displayed and appreciated. This transformation has revitalized Varvarka Street, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Moscow's rich heritage.
Experiencing Varvarka Street: Day vs. Night
However, many visitors rave about the magical transformation of Varvarka Street after dark. As dusk settles, the street comes alive with beautiful illumination, casting a warm glow on the ancient stones and spires. This nighttime ambiance creates a romantic and enchanting atmosphere, making it a popular choice for evening strolls. The lights highlight the grandeur of the churches and the historical significance of the street in a truly spectacular way.
Whether you choose to visit during the day or at night, Varvarka Street promises a memorable journey through Moscow's past. For those with time, experiencing both day and night views will provide a comprehensive appreciation of this historic gem. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as you'll want to wander and soak in the atmosphere at your leisure.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit