Moscow, Russia - Travel Guide

Moscow is a vibrant capital known for its iconic historical landmarks like the Kremlin and Red Square, world-class museums, impressive architecture, and a dynamic arts and culture scene. It offers a blend of imperial grandeur and modern city life, making it a fascinating destination for history buffs and urban explorers alike.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay4 days

Budget$60/day

Mid-range$100/day

Luxury$700/day

Known For

KremlinRed SquareSaint Basil's CathedralBolshoi TheatreMoscow River

🇷🇺 Country Information: Russia

CapitalMoscow

CurrencyRussian ruble (₽)

Language Russian , Tatar, Ukrainian, Chechen, German, others

Phone Code+7

Electricity220V (Type C, F)

Tap WaterNot recommended

Tipping

Tipping is becoming more common in restaurants (5
10% is appreciated)
Tipping is not expected for taxi drivers but rounding up is common
Service charges may be included in hotel bills

Money & Payments

ATMs are widely available, especially in cities
Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but cash is often preferred in smaller towns and rural areas
It is advisable to carry some cash, especially outside major cities
There is no official black market for cash, but it's best to exchange currency at official banks or exchange offices

Cultural Norms

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites
Remove shoes when entering private homes
Avoid discussing sensitive political topics with strangers
Punctuality is valued in formal settings, but being a few minutes late for social gatherings is often acceptable

LGBTQ+ Information

Exercise caution. Russia has restrictive laws against 'gay propaganda' and discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals is common. Same-sex marriage is not recognized.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

Legal drinking age is 18
Drug laws are very strict, and even possession of small amounts can lead to severe penalties

Special Laws

Photography of military or sensitive installations is forbidden
It is illegal to protest without official permission
Be aware of local registration requirements if staying for an extended period

Common Phrases

NoNet (nyet) Нет

YesDa (dah) Да

HelloZdravstvuyte (ZDRAHV-stvooy-tyeh) Здравствуйте

PleasePozhaluysta (poh-ZHAH-looy-stuh) Пожалуйста

Excuse meIzvinite (eez-vee-NEE-tyeh) Извините

Thank youSpasibo (spuh-SEE-buh) Спасибо

Climate

Climate Zone: Continental Cool

Best Time to Visit

Extreme cold season: Dec
Feb
Extreme hot season: Jul
Aug

Getting There

Fly into Moscow Domodedovo (DME) or Sheremetyevo (SVO) International Airports; average flight times and costs vary widely by origin
Sapsan high
speed train connects Moscow and St
Petersburg (approx
4 hours, $50
100)
Long
distance buses connect to various Russian cities and neighboring countries

Getting Around

Moscow Metro (efficient and extensive subway system, cost approx
$1
2 per ride)
Trams, trolleybuses, and buses also available
Ride
sharing apps: Yandex Go is dominant; Uber operates through Yandex Go

Health & Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations recommended (MMR, Diphtheria
Tetanus
Pertussis, Polio, etc
)
Hepatitis A and B, Rabies, and Tick
borne Encephalitis vaccines may be recommended depending on activities and season
Consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice; no specific altitude sickness or malaria concerns

Staying Connected

eSIMs are generally available through providers like MTS, Beeline, and MegaFon
Airalo and Nomad eSIM are known to work in Russia

Local Cuisine

Pelmeni must_try

These are traditional Russian meat or fish dumplings, originally from Siberia, but highly popular across Russia. They are often boiled and served with

Bliny street_food

Russian-style thin pancakes or crepes, which can be enjoyed with both sweet and savory fillings. They are a very versatile dish, often eaten for break

Borscht must_try

A hearty beet soup that is popular in Russia, instantly recognizable by its reddish-purple color. It's typically made with beets, cabbage, and meat st

Kvass non_alcoholic_beverage

A traditional, slightly fermented rye bread drink, sometimes referred to as 'Russian Coca-Cola.' It is highly refreshing, especially in summer, and co

Pirozhki snack

Small stuffed buns or pastries that are a very common Russian street food. They can be baked or fried and filled with savory ingredients like meat, ri

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Kremlin Armoury Chamber Tickets Attraction

Book 2–8 weeks in advance

The Armoury Chamber has limited timed entry sessions, and tickets for specific dates/times often sell out well in advance, especially during peak tourist season.

Bolshoi Theatre Performance Tickets tour_or_activity

Book 1–3 months in advance

The Bolshoi is world-renowned and tickets, particularly for popular operas and ballets, are in extremely high demand and sell out minutes after release.

🟡 Recommended to Book Ahead

Accommodation (Peak Season) Accommodation

Book at least 6 weeks in advance for best selection and prices

To secure preferred hotels, especially centrally located or boutique accommodations, and to get better rates, particularly during major holidays or summer.

Overnight Train Tickets (e.g., to St. Petersburg) Transport

Book 3 weeks to 3 months in advance

Popular routes like the overnight train between Moscow and St. Petersburg (especially sleeper compartments) sell out quickly, particularly during the summer White Nights season.

Fun Facts

1. Moscow boasts the largest number of billionaires in the world, with 84 residents having a combined wealth of 367 billion dollars, surpassing New York.
2. If you are navigating the Moscow Metro, a male voice announcing the next station means the train is heading into the city, while a female voice indicates it is heading out of the city.
3. Before the 20th century, the walls of the Kremlin were traditionally whitewashed, which led to Moscow being called "White Stone."
4. During the Great Patriotic War (WWII), the Moscow Metro was used as a bomb shelter underground, and 217 children were reportedly born there during the bombings.

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