Russia: The Red Square Super Effect

That moment, when you first set your sights on the Red Square...

In a way, we were lucky that we walked towards Red Square crossing the bridge on the Moskva River near the Petrovskaya Tower 

Approach the Red Square from this side and you take in the attractions one at a time. At first, its the impressive exterior of the Kremlin and the imposing red wall! Then, as you come a little closer, you see St Basil's Cathedral in the distance. Walk into the Red Square from the lovely passage between St Basil's Cathedral on your right and Nabatnaya Tower on your left. As you go up the slight slope, you are at the Red Square. And, believe it when I say, you can never be prepared for the sight  once you look all around and take in the vibrant views. The Lenin Mausoleum on the left. On the right, literally and metaphorically, stands the imposing "Gum" with all the top brands in the world that you can think of, Armani, Dior, Llardo, Hermes,Woldord, and many more!

Don't make the silly mistake that most tourists make of going to Red Square only once during their stay in Moscow. For they are the ones who miss the magic of Red Square.

This is a square that changes itself as the day progresses.

During the day its a bustling square full thousands of tourists scuttling between the St Basil's Cathedral, Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum and the other attractions.

Come evening, as the lights come on, the whole ambiance changes, and Red Square transforms into a giant stage with stunning sets on all sides. The crowds are thinning out and you have more breathing space to connect with this historic landmark.

As night descends, the party begins. The crowds are at their thinnest at this hour and those still present can enjoy the few hours of quite and peace that Red Square sees. The hustle and bustle seems to have moved to the many streets around the Red Square, where the party is on in full mode in the any pubs, bars, and around the many street performers that don the streets! Two of the must-visit streets are Nikolskaya Street behind Gum and Petrovka Ulitsa - Theatre Square near Bolshoi Theatre. After you're done with your early dinner head out to the many pubs and bars in the area to soak in the atmosphere. Try not to grab your drink in one place. Move around. Explore. Pub crawl. Each place you go to will provide you that extra peep into the place Moscow is!

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Things to know:

Make sure you visit Red Square at least once during the daytime and once at night.

In the evening, explore the many streets around the area to see exceptional eateries and even better street performances, be it bands, solo artists, magicians and much more.