If you want to enter inside make sure to wear long slevees or cover shoulders for women and no shorts for men. Very traditional. No exceptions!!!
I don't actually know how it looks inside because my outfit was not appropriate. So please, if you would like to visit the church, make sure you are wearing LONG trousers of jeans and NOT skirts or shorts. I would also recommend shoes instead of flip-flops or sandals. The security guys were very strict about it.
A worthwhile visit to this cathedral is recommended. Even though you have to pay an entrance fee, you will enjoy the richly decoretaed interior of this Russian church.
We were staying near the Gare train station, so this was not as much of a walk for me as it might be for some. My timing was also perfect (not planned) as I arrived during the time of a service going on inside. This was around 11:30 or so. After the service, I walked all the way around the church and at a certain point, a security guard was telling everyone to leave because they were locking the church and the gates. Therefore, I would check to see if there are certain times it's open to the public. Surprisingly not as big inside as you would think, but has some beautiful elaborate painting on the walls of the alter.
We were able to enter today as service was in progress. This was interesting to see but didn't get to tour the cathedral. Our husbands had to remain outside as they were wearing shorts. Many men did. They allowed women to enter in shorts and dresses bearing shoulders but had to cover up with scarves provided. Very ornate and beautiful.
