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Driving in Moscow – Russian road rules

Car-sharing in moscow.

Yandex.Drive parking at Sheremetyevo Airport

Moscow has the largest car-sharing park in the world with more than 15 000 cars waiting for you to be rented for any amount of time, starting from 1 minute. Cars can usually be left almost anywhere within MKAD and in Moscow airports. City parking is also free for those cars. To be able to rent a car, you should register yourself in an app of the company providing the service. There are more than 15 car-sharing operators in Moscow, here are the market leaders:

• Delimobil: https://delimobil.ru
• Yandex.Drive: https://yandex.ru/drive/
• BelkaCar: https://belkacar.ru
• Citydrive: https://citydrive.ru

Long term car rental in Moscow

Sixt pick up & return office

Hertz, Europcar, Sixt and Avis have offices in three of four Moscow airports ( Sheremetyevo ,  Domodedovo and Vnukovo ). Budget has no offices in Russia. It is always cheaper to rent a car using company local site, not the international one. For a night pick up you should contact local rent office a few days upon arrival.

• Hertz Russian site: https://www.hertz.ru/
• Europcar Russian site: https://europcar.ru
• Sixt Russian site: https://www.sixt.ru
• Avis Russian site: https://www.avisrussia.ru

Roads & regulations in Russia

Vnukovo exit road

• Driving is right-sided.
• In the built up areas the speed limit is 60 kmph.
• In none built up areas – 90 kmph.
• On the off-city highways – 110 kmph.
• Some highways around Moscow have 130 kmph limit (marked with green signs).
• The minimum age to drive a car is 18 (16 for motorcycles, 20 for buses).
• Wearing of seat belts is mandatory in both front and back seats.
• Speaking on a mobile phone or even holding it in a hand while driving is a serious offence.
• Turning right at a red light is not allowed when there is no special green arrow traffic light.
• It is illegal for children under the age of 12 to travel in the front seat.
• Dipped headlights must be used during the day.
• It is illegal to drive a car with mud on the license plates.

Required documents

Russian registration certificate, driver license and vehicle insurance

While driving in Russia every driver is required to have the following set of documents:

• Passport ( Russian Visa and migration card is a must for foreigners).
• Driving license (if you plan to stay in Moscow for more than 6 months, your national license will not be enough, you have to obtain Russian license).
• Registration certificate (pink laminated card).
• Vehicle insurance (green or purple paper or its digital copy).
• A power of Attorney (only for rented cars).

Fines in Russia

Traffic police officers

Traffic police officers can stop every car just to check the documents. Every road inspector must introduce himself pointing his title and last name.

The cameras can record not only speeding but other minor violations as well. Driving along the bus lanes, driving in the oncoming lane, incorrect parking or even driving without a full stop where there’s a stop sign – all those violations are in their competence. Numerous traffic cameras are installed in all city regions along every major road. The detailed list of cameras and places of their location is presented on this site . After the camera registered a violation, the appropriate fine is sent to the owner of the car by post and must be paid for a one-month term (there’s a 50% discount if you pay within 2 weeks). For serious violations (Russia has a zero tolerance policy on drinking and driving), the driving license can be confiscated by a court.

All the fines should be paid only at the bank or via internet, so never give any money (or bank cards) to the road inspectors.

Moscow parking rules

Moscow parking ATM

Moscow has paid parking in the city center, within the Garden Ring. There are several parking zones and also special fares for specific streets. Parking within the Boulevard Ring may cost up to 380 roubles (€4) per hour, 50 roubles (€1) for the first hour and 150 roubles (€2) for every next hour within the Garden Ring and 60 rubles (€1) per hour within the TTK ring.

How to pay:

• SMS to 7757 (Russian SIM-cards only).
• Moscow Parking Portal
• Mobile App available for iOS  and  Android .
• Parking ATM (mostly with credit cards only).
• Monthly or annual parking ticket. The parking ticket holder can use city parking spaces daily without payment during the chosen period (month or year).

Maps and traffic in Moscow

Yandex.Maps service

Moscow has a very hard traffic situation. To avoid long traffic jams use Yandex.Maps service. It offers reliable live traffic map (apps are available for iOS , Android  and  Windows Phone ) with online navigation. Offline Moscow map is available. It is the most popular and up to date service. Yandex can show and search latin-written street names.

Getting Russian driver license

Moscow driving school

A foreigner, temporarily staying in Russia can drive with an International Driving Permit (IDP) or national driving license, translated into Russian and notarized. Foreigners that are going to stay in Russia for more than six months must obtain a Russian driving license. To apply for a Russian driving license, you must provide the following documents:

• Passport and valid Russian visa and legally certified copy.
• The document confirming a place of continuous or temporary registration.
• Medical certificate (available from any major health clinic).
• National driving license, legally certified copy and translation.
• Photo of 4х6 cm.
• The receipt confirming payment of the state duty.
• Application for passing the examination.
• The receipt on examination payment.

If your national driving license is still valid, you will only have to pass a general driving test. If your license has expired, you must also pass a practical driving exam to get the Russian license. However, to do so, you must speak fluent Russian: the theoretical and practical instruction is conducted only in Russian. If you want to get your first driving license in Russia, you should also go to a local driving school, pass a medical test, have about two months of theoretical and practical driving instruction, and pass state driving exams.

Moscow gas stations

Gazpromneft station

We suggest you to fill up at good gas stations nets, such as Lukoil, BP, Rosneft, Shell, Gazpromneft or TNK. Gas stations are particularly can be met outside the Garden Ring. The price of petrol in Russia is still significantly lower than in Europe.

Winter driving in Moscow

Snowfall near GUM

Driving in Moscow in winter could be a difficult thing, especially if you are not used to such weather conditions. During the winter period, remember to keep in your car a good snow brush and an anti-frost windshield washer fluid. Before winter arrives, have your car protected with winter tires. Studded tires are allowed and highly recommended outside of Moscow. It is better to change tires in advance – in autumn, and not to wait until the first snow. Otherwise, you run the risk of spending a lot of time in queues to service stations. Do not hurry to change winter tires in spring; it is better to wait until April.

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How to get a REAL ID and use it for travel

The REAL ID Act is a law that sets higher security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards (IDs).

Why upgrade your license to a REAL ID?

Beginning May 7, 2025, if you have not upgraded your driver’s license or state-issued ID to be REAL ID-compliant, you will not be able to use it to:

• Board federally regulated commercial aircraft
• Access federal government facilities or military installations
• Enter nuclear power plants

Visit the REAL ID website for more details and frequently asked questions .

Check to see if your license or state ID is already REAL ID-compliant

If your driver's license or state ID has a star in the upper right-hand corner, it is already REAL-ID-compliant. There is nothing more you need to do.

How to get a REAL ID

When you apply for or renew your driver’s license or state identification card, you can choose to make it REAL ID-compliant. Find and visit your state's driver's licensing agency website to see what documentation you will need. Your new card will have the REAL ID star marking at the top right.

Using REAL ID and other ID options to board a plane

If you do not upgrade your license or state ID, you can use a passport or one of these other acceptable forms of identification to fly . 

Can you still get a non-REAL ID-compliant license or state ID?

You will still be able to get a driver's license or state ID card that is not REAL ID-compliant. But you will not be able to use it for air travel or to get into federal facilities or military installations. Find and visit your state's driver's licensing agency website to see how to get a non-REAL ID-compliant license or state ID.

LAST UPDATED: December 18, 2023

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How to Get a US Driver’s License Coming on a Tourist Visa

SEP 19, 2023

     An International Driving Permit is a kind of your driver's license translated into ten languages to help travelers and local authorities overcome language barriers. Among other things, an International Driving Permit contains information from a national driver's license translated into English, and thus it supplements and confirms national DLs. Note that an International Driving Permit is just a translation of a document. Therefore, it can't replace the document itself; moreover, it is invalid without a national driver's license. Thus, you will need both documents to drive legally in some states, which you can get in your home country. Don't bother to go to a local driver's license office to get the translation. According to the official US government website, International Driving Permits in the United States can be obtained only by the residents.

     Therefore, if you have a tourist visa, your valid national driver's license, and the permit, you can drive in the United States without any limitations, except for the duration of time. As far as I understand, in most cases, national driver's licenses are valid in the United States for the period of visa validity. However, since the local rules may vary, it is better to double-check in your state driver's license center. Anyway, even having your home country DL, you may want to obtain a US driver's license to reduce your car insurance costs since insurance companies are usually not very happy to insure aliens with DLs issued in other countries. The earlier you get a US driver's license, the earlier you can establish your driving record, and eventually, you will be able to get affordable car insurance.

     While tourists with their national DLs may not bother with getting a US driver's license, those with no license at all can't escape taking a driver's license test and going through other standard procedures for obtaining DL if they want to drive in the United States. In fact, tourists can obtain a US driver's license only in certain states, for example, California or Florida, while in other states, like Missouri, they are not allowed to apply for a local DL. You may be surprised, but starting in 2014, 8 American states allow applying for a DL even for illegal immigrants and those with temporary legal status (Colorado and Nevada are among them). Therefore, you need to visit a local driver's license office or find information on a state DMV website to clarify this question prior to taking any action. Since I know several people who underwent the procedure and earned their US licenses when staying on tourist visas in different states, I will describe the general process without going into details for each state. Anyway, state rules change from time to time, so you will need to check the current rules for your particular state.

What Papers Do You Need to Provide in a Driver's License Office?                  

Any person who wants to apply for a US driver's license has to submit the following types of documents:

• identification documents with a photo
• documents verifying the date of birth
• documents verifying legal presence in the country
• documents verifying residency in a particular state

For tourists, the primary documents verifying their identity, date of birth, and legal status are a passport with a valid visa and a printed I-94 form. The form can be printed from the official Department of Homeland Security website, where you must enter your identification details to access your I-94 form. Note that the form specifies the period of your legal stay in the United States, and a US driver's license can be issued only for this period. When you obtain your US DL, it will be stamped "Temporary," the expiration date will be the same as indicated in your I-94 form.

You also need a driver's license from your own country, if you have one. Note that the license cannot help you obtain a US DL. It serves only as a document confirming your date of birth and name and identifying you through your photo. So, don't even dream about skipping a driver's license test in a DMV office just because you passed it in your home country. From my experience, attaching an International Driving Permit to a home country DL is unnecessary, but it won't hurt to take it with you.

If you have no national license, you may need another identification document since, in some states, it is required to provide at least two documents with a photo and so on. However, a friend of mine managed to obtain a WA driver's license without providing even his I-94 form (he submitted his passport with a visa, SSN obtained on a J1 W&T visa, and home country driver's license). As requirements vary from state to state, check information on identification documents for tourists in your local driver's license center.

In addition, you need papers confirming your residency in a particular state and your mailing address. As a rule, local authorities require at least two documents verifying an applicant's address in a state. Usually, a list of papers that can confirm your address is rather extensive, but to my mind, the simplest option is to bring just a couple of letters addressed to you from different institutions. For example, I brought a letter from my bank and a postcard with a pin code from Google Adsense. A friend used an apartment lease contract and a bank statement with a local Miami address specified. I know people who used their friends' addresses and even a mailbox with a physical address – there are plenty of options, but still, it is better to check in a local driver services center.

As for SSN (Social Security Number) is required only from US residents and aliens with a type of visa, which implies obtaining an SSN. Therefore, as a tourist on a B1/B2 visa, you won't be asked to provide SSN in those states which allow tourists to obtain US driver's licenses.

All told, you need to introduce the following documents to a local driver's license processing center:

• Passport with a valid visa
• Printed I-94 form
• Driver's license from your country, if any
• Two documents confirming your mailing address and residency in a state

How to Get Prepared for a Drivers License Test?

Your next step is to get prepared for a knowledge test in a DMV office. First, Visit your local DMV website and download the current Driver's Manual. Study it carefully several times, take helpful notes, and then have some practice that will help you better understand the way a DMV permit test is conducted. Choose a Driver-Start.com website or application ( Android or IOS ) for better results since both site and app includes helpful learning and training tools. Using the Driver-Start.com platforms, you can familiarize yourself with real exam questions and target gaps in your knowledge while practicing the knowledge test questions and answers until they become automatic. Learn how many mistakes you can make in the test according to your state rules and train until you can correctly answer about 80% of the test questions.

How to Undergo the Test in a Driver Licensing Office?

Before visiting a   driver's license office, find out which offices render the service of conducting a DMV permit test and their availability schedule. Some offices are available only by appointment, while others render the services on a walk-in basis. If you choose the second option, it's better to arrive early in the morning, since there can be rather long lines of applicants and you will have to spend more than an hour or two on passing the test.

When I got to a driver's license processing center to pass the exam, there was quite a crowd of people. I went to an information desk, showed my documents, got a ticket with my personal number, and waited for half an hour or something like that until an officer called me. I provided my documents once again, and she did the paperwork. Then, she checked my eyesight using special equipment (you have probably seen such devices in ophthalmology offices). I was photographed against a blue drop, fingerprinted, and then given another ticket with the number of the computer site where I was supposed to undergo the test. All this was rather quick, and I think I waited in line longer than I underwent all the procedures.

The DMV computer showed my name, asked a simple question to check my readiness to start, and then showed test rules. For each question, several answer options are provided, and the questions are illustrated with images. You need to choose an answer, press OK, then press OK once again when the computer asks to confirm the answer. The computer shows if your answer is correct or incorrect and then moves to the next question. Your statistics are shown at the bottom of the screen during the test: the number of correct and incorrect answers and questions left. I used a "skip" button when I got to a difficult question and moved to the next question while watching the statistics. You are allowed to use the button an unlimited number of times. Thus you may make several rounds of questions choosing easier ones until you score a necessary number of correct answers. So did I, and I scored the required number after two rounds.

After passing the DMV permit test , I went to my office and made an appointment for a road test. But if you have no driving experience at all, you need to have some behind-the-wheel practice before taking it.

How to Get Prepared for a Road Test and Pass It?

My girlfriend passed her road test in Florida later on the same day she passed her knowledge test. In practice, it depends on the rules of a particular state, the DMV office schedule, and your driving experience. If you have none or you have had little behind-the-wheel practice lately, you should get your learner's permit and then start practicing on roads. As far as I know, they send learners' permits via mail within several days after a driver's license test is successfully passed, but there may be some local variations. Having the permit, you need to find a vehicle and a person older than 21 who has a valid DL in your state and agrees to be your supervisor while you are practicing. You may rent a car or borrow it from your friends (if they don't worry about you getting into an accident while driving their car).

While training, you must practice maneuvers like parking or U-turns and regular driving on public roads like changing lanes or passing intersections. Place a great deal of focus on training the following maneuvers and tasks:

• parallel parking
• stopping completely at a stop sign
• stopping completely before making a right turn on red
• observing speed limits, especially in school zones
• traffic checking and yielding at intersections
• checking blind spots (both over your shoulder and via the vehicle mirrors)
• using parking brake
• learning hand signals
• moving off safely
• road positioning.

Don't be limited by driving on parking spaces, backyards, side roads, and deserted streets – this won't be enough to pass your road test. Have adequate practice on busy roads and take enough time to prepare completely. In fact, having a learner's permit valid for several months, you may drive legally during all periods of your stay in the United States even without a regular DL – if you don't get into accidents or violate traffic rules and score penalty points.

When you are ready for a road test, go to a corresponding DMV office having your identification documents and learner's permit with you. You also need to provide an insured car, which will be used for the testing. Sometimes, the exam includes only street driving, while in some states, you need to show certain maneuvers on a DMV site and then drive on public roads. The main thing required is to show safe and sure-handed driving – nobody expects sophisticated tricks from you, but you may easily fail to ignore such simple rules like observing away while driving in reverse or incompletely stopping in front of a "stop" sign.

If you pass your road test, you are issued a US driver's license for a period specified in your I-94 form. The license can be given to you right in a driver's license office or sent by mail.

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Navigating U.S. Roads as an International Driver

Updated: March 7, 2024

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• Staying Compliant in the US
• Driving With a Foreign License
• Common Questions From Visitors
• The Importance of Car Insurance
• Tips for Driving in the U.S. Safely
• Expert Advice

About Nadia Neophytou

Nadia Neophytou is a journalist based in New York City who writes for various leading American and South African publications, such as The Hollywood Reporter, Billboard, Deadline, Quartz, Glamour, the Mail & Guardian, the Sunday Times, Forbes Africa and more. Nadia also worked as an arts and entertainment journalist for Eyewitness News, and as the news network's US correspondent for South Africa. She has covered topics ranging from Occupy Wall Street, numerous mass shootings, the re-election of Barack Obama, Donald Trump's election and the #MeToo movement.

• American Automobile Touring Alliance . " International Driving Permit ." Accessed May 28, 2021 .
• Driving-Tests . " U.S. Rules of the Road ." Accessed May 28, 2021 .
• Federal Highway Administration . " U.S. Driving Last Year Was Lowest in Two Decades, New Data Show ." Accessed June 4, 2021 .
• Federal Trade Commission . " International Driver's License Scams ." Accessed May 28, 2021 .
• Injury Facts from National Safety Council . " Motor Vehicle Safety Issues ." Accessed June 4, 2021 .
• ProCon . " States (and DC) That Allow Driver’s Licenses for People in the Country Illegally ." Accessed May 28, 2021 .
• Shorelight . " How International Students Can Apply for a US Driving License ." Accessed May 28, 2021 .

RTA Theory Test

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Can Tourists Drive in Dubai

If you are traveling to Dubai, the first thing that comes up to your mind is Can tourists drive in Dubai? or maybe Are tourists allowed to drive in Dubai? Dubai is known for its big roads and luxury cars.

Compared to most countries, you can rent high-end cars and jeeps in Dubai. You may want to explore Dubai by driving yourself. Driving in the Dubai desert by yourself is nothing less than an adventure. Again, it all depends on the very same question ”Can tourists drive in Dubai” Let me help you answer this question.

Driving in Dubai Left or Right

In Dubai and the UAE, it is mandatory to drive on the right-hand side of the road. All vehicles in this region have their steering wheels located on the left side, making it important for drivers to be aware of this rule.

It is similar to the USA, Canada, Germany, and France, unlike in the UK, Pakistan, South Africa, and other countries.

Driving in Dubai can be confusing for those who are not from the country as driving is done on the opposite side of the road compared to other countries. However, driving in Dubai follows the same system as in most Middle East countries, which is driving on the right side of the road . This means that traffic will travel in a clockwise direction around roundabouts, cars driving faster than the speed limit must pass on the left, and cars driving slower than the speed limit will travel on the right. It is important to adhere to all driving laws when driving in Dubai as there are often hefty fines for those who break traffic rules.

Ticket for Local Transportation in Dubai

In Dubai, if you wish to use local transportation options like the metro, buses, taxis, and trams, you must have a Nol ticket or Nol Red Ticket .

This particular ticket is suitable for travelers who occasionally use public transportation. It is a low-cost paper-based ticket purchased at any ticket vending machine for just AED 2.

Temporary Driving License

Tourists on a visit visa required an international driving license in conjunction with their national driving permit to drive in UAE. Alternatively, you can apply for a temporary driver’s license if you hold a driving from these countries:

• South Korea
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• United States
• For more information please contact RTA authority. They have an online support system.

You can download our theory test application if you want to apply for a driving license in the United Arab Emirates. It includes all of the theory test questions you’ll need to prepare for the exam.

Rule for UAE Residents

If you have changed your visa type and hold a resident visa, you must apply for a UAE driving license. If you have a driving license from  these countries , the process becomes simple. You have to show your driving license and do a little paperwork, and that is it.

Others may need to pass a few written and practical tests. For a complete guide, please review  how to get a UAE driving license .

can i drive a car in uae with vist visa. i have a valid Qatari license. but the main problem i lost my Driving license. i have a copy of the license and all the documents

I get a employee visa in dubai Is it enough for driving in dubai an International permit!!! ??

Tourists and employees are driving cars only with their own international permit

Then why Dubai don’t accept international permit for employees?

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Temporary Car Insurance in UAE: Your Complete Guide

Comprehensive car insurance in uae: a detailed guide, third party insurance for car in uae complete guide, fine for driving without insurance in uae: advise & guide, how to transfer car insurance to new owner.

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Passport Vs. Enhanced License: They Both Permit International Travel, So What's The Difference?

• Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDLs) can only be obtained in five US states: Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington. They can be used for international travel to countries like Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
• EDLs are not a substitute for a passport and do not grant access to all international borders. Temporary EDLs are not accepted at border crossings, so travelers need to wait for the formal copy of their license.
• REAL IDs are another form of identification that can be used at airports and for secondary identification within the United States. However, a passport is still required for international travel with a REAL ID. Passports are often seen as superior to EDLs and are recommended for those without access to EDLs.

For anyone who doesn't live in a state that offers enhanced driver's licenses, also known as EDLs for short, there's probably a bit of confusion at this headline. What the heck is an enhanced driver's license? Can you get them anywhere? Are they used to travel across any international borders ? Does one still need a regular driver's license in addition to an EDL? Can you get one in any state or for another state? Understandably, the list of questions surrounding this unusual travel ticket is extensive.

Alternatively, there's the passport, which is a tried and true form of travel identification that's been used for decades. However, does one need a passport if they have an EDL? And, when it comes to crossing the border, does one need a passport in addition to an EDL? Once again, there are many questions - which is why we're here to answer all the things that confuse travelers about both of these forms of identification. While they can't be used interchangeably, they do overlap in terms of where a person can travel and how .

UPDATE: 2023/08/04 15:53 EST BY NOAH STAATS

Adding To The Travel Saga: What Is A REAL ID?

This article has been updated with new information regarding travel domestically and internationally in and out of the United States, as well as comparing EDLs to REAL IDs. Whether someone has an upcoming trip, needs help before the airport, or has other concerns, we're here to help!

Related: Vaccine Passports: All Your Questions About What, When, And Where, Answered

For Starters, What Is An Enhanced License, And Where Can You Get One?

• Enhanced Driver's Licenses, or EDLs, can only be obtained in five US states.
• People won't be able to get these unless they're in Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, or Washington.

An Enhanced Driver's License, EDL for short, can only be obtained in five states : Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington. These are all states that border another country (Canada). Therefore, an EDL can be used at border crossings. However, an EDL also permits travel in other countries, as well, and not just those that share borders with the U.S. So, what is this magical card all about, then?

To obtain an EDL, drivers must go to the DMV and apply for one. The cost of an enhanced license will vary based on the state, but there's always an extra fee to pay for having a license that also doubles as a means for travel identification. The ID will have a visible differentiation between what it is vs. a regular driver's license, which is to keep people from replicating them or counterfeiting an EDL. It also might take slightly longer to get an EDL in the mail since, while it is a driver's license, it does vary from the typical license.

EDLs are extended licenses allowing a person to travel between states and certain countries. They will have a different look than a standard license and should be permissible at border checks, state lines, and traffic stops. People can use them to get in and out of Mexico and Canada, which is helpful.

The benefit of having one of these is the fact that travelers can use it to get into both Canada and Mexico, and it can be shown at both border crossings as a form of legitimate identification for entry. An EDL can also be used in the event that a traveler is going to the Caribbean, which is helpful in the event that someone doesn't have a passport or doesn't have time to obtain one (always check territory restrictions before booking trips).

So, it could be said that an EDL is great for use in 'local' international travel. However, this doesn't mean that it's always a substitute for a passport. Additionally, since the EDL is not available in every state, it means that more than half of the country does not have access to such a form of identification. So, there are still downsides to this, and it does not grant travelers access across all international borders, nor does it replace a passport when boarding a plane to another country. Temporary EDLs also are not accepted at border crossings, so, similar to a passport, travelers will be required to wait until they've received the formal copy of their license before using it for travel purposes.

Related: Why Are There More Passports & Immigrations Than Countries?

Enhanced ID Versus REAL ID: Which Is Better?

• Enhanced Driver's Licenses are used without passports, while REAL IDs are not.
• Obtaining a REAL ID is good for airports and secondary identification when entering or leaving the United States.

On top of an EDL, there is also something called a REAL ID. These work similarly, allowing government agencies to distinguish who's a US citizen versus a foreigner. With a REAL ID, the card will have a specialty stamp of citizenship, which can be used at airports, borders, etc. However, these aren't considered better than Enhanced Driver's Licenses, as they can't get people in and out of countries without a passport.

According to the Department of Homeland Security , a REAL ID is a nationwide effort to improve the integrity and security of State-issued driver's licenses and ID cards. They essentially offer a second layer of trust and protection to you and the ID in question, so this could be an alternative to look into. People still need a passport to enter the country with a REAL ID, so that's one downside. Domestically, it's not required to have both. They're also about $30 cheaper than EDLs.

If someone travels domestically often, a REAL ID is a good investment. They're cheaper than Enhanced Driver's Licenses but need a passport with them at international entry and exit points.

Is A Passport Better Than An Extended Driver's License?

• Passports are often seen as superior to EDLs.
• Those who don't have access to Extended Driver's Licenses can apply for passports.

For people who don't live in states where EDLs are available, obviously, it makes sense to get a passport. EDLs are much cheaper, but for those on a budget who are looking to do that 'local' international travel, a passport card might be something to look into. For those who do live in EDL states, it's a worthy thing to have, even if they're not planning on crossing international borders anytime soon. For a fee that's not extraordinary, it won't break the budget to splurge for the extra $30 or so license.

Anyone who does live in a state where an EDL is an option but is planning on traveling to a country that's not Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean should absolutely invest in a passport. Simply put, EDL does not grant access to any other countries and will likely never be used for such purposes. It's easier to think of the EDL as a special privilege granted to certain states that share borders with other countries - it won't grant access to the world, but it will allow country-to-country crossings. A passport is a long-term investment that, in the long run, will permit travel practically anywhere and will last longer than an enhanced license.

Getting A Passport Just Got Easier

The United States is (finally) making it easier to apply for passports. Starting in 2023, Americans will be able to apply for their passport renewals online (but not for their first passports - that takes longer ). This will help make the whole process much simpler. It could be better as the new system will still lag behind the speed and convenience of other countries like New Zealand (which have been renewing passports online for many years).

The standard fee for renewing a passport will be $130.00, and it will be valid for 10 years. It will take 7 to 10 weeks to receive one's passport - although this can be expedited for an extra fee.

• Standard Fee: $130.00 Standard Renewal
• Routine Service: 7 to 10 Weeks

Over the border in Canada, the Canadians have been at work simplifying the renewals of their passport too.

The question should not be an either/or debate about whether one should get a passport or an EDL. Instead, one should have both - especially if one lives near the borders with Canada or Mexico. That way, one can spontaneously decide to cross the border (one may not always be carrying a passport around). Most people should just invest in having both. There are many reasons why everyone should have a passport .

Planning a trip to Moscow? Our travel guide contains up-to-date, personal information on everything from what to see , to when to visit , where to stay , and what to eat !

• General Information
• What to see
• How to get to Moscow
• Where to stay
• Where to eat

Why visit Moscow?

Majestic churches, impressive historic fortresses, and palatial buildings: Moscow is a fascinating city whose emblematic architecture reflects the turbulent history that has defined Russia throughout the centuries.

The traces of the USSR can be found around every corner of the city , side by side with the iconic relics of Imperial Russia , like the mythical Red Square , the imposing Kremlin , and the beautiful  St Basil's Cathedral . 

Discover a fascinating world of Cold War bunkers, golden-domed basilicas, world-class art museums, and the legendary "palace of the people,"  as the Moscow Metro has been nicknamed. Whether you fancy watching a classical Russian ballet at the Bolshoi Theatre , perusing the fine arts at the Pushkin Museum , or marveling at the sheer size of the monuments to the Soviet state's achievements at the  All-Russia Exhibition Centre , this travel guide will help you on your way!

Where to start?

If you're going to travel to Moscow and you don't know much about the city yet, the first thing to do is to dive into its legendary history - understanding the past will help you understand the present. Next, check out our practical hints and tips on traveling to the city before discovering which of its most important museums , monuments , and attractions pique your interest.

Looking for a place to stay?

Booking your accommodation in advance is the best way to get great discounts. Our detailed guide on where to stay in Moscow  will help you decide which neighborhood you'd like to look for hotels or apartments in, and our hotel search engine will find you the best deals!

Why is our Moscow travel guide the best?

Introducing Moscow is a  city guide written by travelers for travelers  and contains personalized advice to help you make the most of your trip to the city.

All the information in this guide is valid as of December 2022. If you find any errors or have any comments, please feel free to contact us .

Our travel guides

• top attractions
• where to stay
• and much more

Moscow transport: metro, bus & taxi in Moscow | How does it work?

• August 15, 2023

Moscow transport: how does it work? Here we summarized all you need to know about Moscow city public transport (bus, metro, card Troika), but also taxi in Moscow.

Distances in Moscow: walking in Moscow

Walking. The geolocation of your accommodation in Moscow is important, because the distances are great. You’re definitely not going to be able to do it all on foot. Moscow is the largest city in Europe with more than 12 million intramural inhabitants. Besides, Moscow is made for giants, because everything is big: the avenues, the buildings, the metro stations! So, the place of your accommodation is very important. You can check our blog post: Where to stay in Moscow?

Good to know! We have written 2 other blog posts that could be helpful: Maps of Moscow and Moscow Airport Transfer.

Public transport in Moscow: prices and how does it work?

Even if you are going to be able to visit many interesting places around Red Square (see the article: Moscow Red Square ), you will certainly take the metro to get around, but also to see the most beautiful stations . Furthermore, among public transport the metro remains the fastest solution in Moscow.

Good to know! Public transport is free for children under the age of 7. More specifically, 1 adult may not purchase a ticket for 1 child under the age of 7. If you are 2 adults, it is therefore for 2 children that the trips will be free.

Tips for Moscow city transport

Here are my tips to make travel more pleasant and optimized:

• Avoid to take Moscow City transport during rush hours. Especially for ground transportation (lots of traffic jams). You will lose a lot of time, especially for city center trips by land transport. Peak hours correspond to office hours: the standard working day begins at 9 a.m. and ends at 6 p.m.
• Use a mobile application to estimate your journey time as accurately as possible. In Europe, as in Russia, we use CityMapper . It is a free application that allows you to calculate your trips and see all the possibilities to get from one place to another. For the application to work, you must have an Internet connection: either through your French package which can prove to be expensive; either by wifi, in your hotel, in a cafe (very common in Moscow) or by using the free Wi-Fi of the city of Moscow! To download CityMapper on your mobile, just type its name in AppStore or GooglePlay . Then choose the city where you want to use it.
• Buy a transportation card. If you plan to take public transport several times a day or if you come to Moscow for a university or work exchange, it is more economical to take a transport card. I talk about it later in the article.
• Further info about airport transfer here: How to get from airport to Moscow?

Moscow metro: the fastest way to get around Moscow

Beautiful! The Moscow Metro is considered the most beautiful in the world! You can find out which stations are worth a visit in my article: The most beautiful stations in Moscow .

Metro timetables. Times vary by station, but approximately the Moscow Metro is open from 5.30 a.m. to 1 a.m.

Below you can find a map of the Moscow metro, with an example of a metro station. You can find other Moscow maps here .

Metro prices in Moscow

• A single trip = 57 rubles (from February 1, 2020)
• Price for transporting a suitcase in the metro = 60 rubles
• With a transport card , the price of the journey decreases. Example: with the Troika card the price per trip increases to 40 rubles. More details about troika card below.
• You can also pay with ApplePay or GooglePay.

Where to buy metro tickets?

• At the cash desks , where you can buy everything: transport card or one-way tickets. Small flat: most of the time, the employees of the metro do not speak English very well. But they are used to it, you will be able to understand each other.
• At the English terminals , where you can also buy everything. See below for more details on terminal purchases.

Bus, trolleybus, tram in Moscow

Avoid at peak hours. The city center can be literally blocked! Mobile applications are very useful to estimate travel times.

Tram. Trams are very nice to do. It’s a bit special. Tram stops are hard on the road. The cars then stop and let the pedestrians get on or off the tram.

Price of a bus, trolleybus or tram ticket

• One way = 57 rubles (from February 1, 2020)
• With a transport card , the price drops. Example: with the Troika card the price per trip increases to 40 rubles. More details about transport cards below.

Where to buy bus, trolleybus or tram tickets?

To drivers. There are no controllers on each bus, as in St. Petersburg.

By purchasing a transport card in advance at a metro station. There are few terminals installed near bus, tram or trolley stations.

Good to know! It is possible to pay on the metro, but also on buses with your smartphone or a contactless card (Apple Pay or Google Pay)! The price is 44 rubles per way. Beware, however, of bank charges, as for other ruble payments in Russia. See article: How to pay in Russia?

Transport cards in Moscow

Two most interesting solutions for taking Moscow City transport:

Troika card prices

• 1 metro, bus, trolley bus or tram journey: 40 rubles (instead of 57)
• 90 minutes in public transport (regardless of the number of changes): 62 rubles

How to buy a Troika card?

• Cost of purchase : 50 rubles. You can get it at all metro stations.
• Refill . Once the card is purchased, you must reload it. You can choose the amount freely.
• Where? It is possible to buy the card and recharge it at the metro cash desks or via automatic terminals, in cash or by bank card.

The Troika card is interesting if you:

• want to take advantage of lower transportation rates.
• stay in Moscow for a long time (language stays, expatriation, VIE, university exchange), but do not go for frequent daily trips.
• don’t stay long, but you know roughly how many trips you’re going to make or you don’t mind reloading the card often. Why? It is possible, but long and complicated to recover the initial amount of 50 rubles, as well as the rest on the card.

How much does the unlimited Yediny card (central Moscow area) cost?

• 1 day = 24 hours = 230 rubles
• 3 days = 438 rubles
• 30 days = 2170 rubles
• There are no unlimited cards for 2, 4, 5, 6 or 7 days.

More details: Moscow transport website

How to buy a Yediny card?

It is possible to buy the card and recharge it at the metro cash desks or via automatic terminals, in cash or by bank card. The card is activated (the countdown starts) at the time of validation and not at the time of purchase. The card must be activated within 10 days of purchase (day of purchase included).

Here are the pictures of the automatic terminal (in English), when buying a Yédiny card.

The Yediny card is interesting if you:

• stay in Moscow for a long time (language stays, expatriation, university exchange), but make frequent daily trips.
• do not stay in Moscow for a long time, but do not want to estimate your trips in advance (Troika card) while enjoying the unlimited.

Our experience with transport cards in Moscow

When I was working in Moscow, I used the Troika card. It was the most economical solution for me. We also used it later when we both went there. On the other hand, the last time we were there, we took the Yediny card and finally we found it more practical, even if it turned out to be less economical in the end.

Our verdict (compared to our travel habits): budget side, the Troika card is better. But for less headache (how much to put on the card? How much is left?…), The unlimited Yediny card is more practical.

Boat trips in Moscow

There are several boat trips on the Moskva River. In addition, it is even possible to buy an unlimited day ticket. For more information, you can then consult the article: Take a boat trip on the Moskva River.

Getting around in Moscow by taxi

There are several types of taxis in Moscow:

• First, official taxis (sign on the roof);
• Then individuals who do this out of the blue;
• And finally Moscow taxis via mobile applications (private drivers or taxi agencies).

Good to know. The cost of a taxi ride to the city center in Moscow is around 500 rubles. If you want to avoid negotiations, use the taxi apps in Moscow.

Uber Moscow: NO.

It works before, but not anymore, because Uber does not use the classic app in Russia (they have created a special app for Russia, only this app works now). So, you have to download the special Uber Russia app… but this application is only available on the Russian AppStore, so it cannot be downloaded for us. Uber’s competitors in Russia such as YandexTaxi or Gett can be used.

Use the YandexTaxi app to take a taxi in Moscow

The Yandex company is the Russian Google. Initially a search engine, it also offers several services. YandexTaxi is then the taxi service in Moscow, it works everywhere in Russia. You can download the app from the AppStore or GooglePlay . Thanks to this application, it is possible to pay the taxi in cash (by default) or by bank card directly (to be specified in the application). If you are thinking of paying in cash, then have rather small denominations so that the driver can give you change. The application is now in French.

How does YandexTaxi work?

• First, it detects your geolocation.
• Then you indicate your arrival position using the Latin or Cyrillic alphabet.
• It then offers you the estimated prices for each range (thrifty, business, etc.).
• You choose, confirm and wait for the driver to arrive.
• You identify the driver with the indicated license plate, then at the end YandexTaxi collects the race via your bank card (do not forget to put your card info before using the app, otherwise pay in cash).

Other solution. You can also book a taxi in advance on KiwiTaxi website . It’s easy!

Public transport and taxi in Moscow: summary

Getting around Moscow is quite simple, as Moscow City transport is well developed. However, because of traffic jams, the metro is the quickest solution. It isn’t an issue, because the Moscow metro is very clean and beautiful. Taxis are rather cheap and easy to find thanks to mobile applications like, for example, YandexTaxi.

Moscow travel tips:

• Bolshoi Theater: how to buy tickets?
• Where to eat in Moscow?
• Where to stay in Moscow?
• How to get from airport to Moscow?

Top places to see in Moscow:

• What to visit in Kremlin?
• Red Square Moscow: everything you need to know
• Saint Basil’s Cathedral: tickets & what to see inside?

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Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

17 Top Tourist Attractions in Moscow

The capital of Russia is an incredible place to explore. Visitors to Moscow come away spellbound at all the amazing sights, impressed at the sheer size and grandeur of the city. Lying at the heart of Moscow, the Red Square and the Kremlin are just two of the must-see tourist attractions; they are the historical, political and spiritual heart of the city – and indeed Russia itself.

A fascinating city to wander around, stunning cathedrals, churches, and palaces lie side-by-side with bleak grey monuments and remains from the Soviet state. In addition to its plethora of historical and cultural tourist attractions, Moscow is home to world-class museums, theaters and art galleries.

Renowned for its performing arts, fantastic ballets and amazing circus acts, catching a show while in Moscow is a must. The wealth of brilliant restaurants, trendy bars, and lively nightlife means there is something for everyone to enjoy.

See also: Where to Stay in Moscow

17. Tsaritsyno Palace

Once the summer residence of Catherine the Great, the stunning Tsaritsyno Palace is now a museum-reserve. The architecture is magnificent and there is a lovely park surrounding it for visitors to explore.

Located in the south of Moscow, the palace was commissioned in 1775 and recent renovations mean its lavish interior looks better than ever before with its elegant halls and beautiful staircases.

The exhibits on display look at the life of the empress as well as the history of Tsaritsyno itself. The huge palace grounds are also home to some other delightful buildings with the elegant opera house and wonderful brickwork of the Small Palace being particularly impressive to gaze upon.

Starting out in 1935 as the ‘All-Union Agricultural Exhibition’, VDNKh has slowly morphed over the years into the fascinating open-air museum of today. Remarkably, over 400 buildings can now be found within its confines.

The huge park complex has numerous pavilions representing former Soviet republics on show, such as those of Armenia and Turkmenistan and the distinctive architecture of each of the buildings is always interesting to gaze upon. In addition to this there is the fascinating Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics which is dedicated to space exploration and the fun Moskvarium aquarium even offers you the chance to swim with dolphins.

With lots of eateries scattered about and numerous entertainment options such as horse-riding and zip-lining, there is something for everyone to enjoy; the Friendship of Nations fountain truly is wonderful.

15. Kremlin Armoury

One of the oldest museums in the city, the Kremlin Armoury has a wealth of treasures; highlights include the ornate Grand Siberian Railway egg, the historic Cap of Monomakh and the stunning Imperial Crown of Russia which often has a crowd of tourists around it, jostling to take a photo.

Once the royal armory, there are loads of fascinating objects on display. Perusing the many sabers, jewelry, armor and more is as interesting as it is educational and entertaining and the swords are so finely crafted that you’ll almost wish you could pick up one and wield if yourself.

Established in 1851, the museum is situated in the Moscow Kremlin.

14. GUM Department Store

Standing for ‘Main Universal Store’ in Russian, GUM is stunning. Its wonderful skylights and beautiful facades mean it doesn’t look out of place alongside its illustrious neighbors on Red Square.

With over 200 shops, boutiques and upmarket eateries inside, it is a shopaholic’s heaven and concerned partners will be glad to find more affordable options alongside luxury brands such as Dior and Prada.

The main department store in the city, GUM was opened in 1893. The stunning architecture makes it well worth a visit even if shopping isn’t your thing.

13. Moscow Metro

It’s not often that public transport looks like a work of art. So many stops on the Moscow Metro will astound visitors with their beauty and elegance.

Decked in marble and with frescoes covering the walls, the stations are amazing to gaze upon and are part of one of the longest metro systems in the world, with the first stations opened in 1935.

Using the metro is the quickest and easiest way to get around Moscow and braving the crowds of commuters is well worth it for the beauty all around you.

12. Arbat Street

An elegant yet lively street, Arbat is full of impressive architecture and was once a popular place to live for aristocrats, artists, and academics.

A historic place, it is down Arbat Street that Napoleon’s troops are said to have headed on their way to capture the Kremlin.

Nowadays, there are many cafes, restaurants, and shops, as well as various monuments and statues to former residents such as Alexander Pushkin who was reputed to be a lover of the Russian Empress due to his massive influence in court.

11. Novodevichy Convent

Drenched in history, the Novodevichy Convent is located in a striking building that was once a fortress. This captivating place is well worth visiting when in Moscow.

Founded in 1524, the convent houses four cathedrals; Smolensk Cathedral is the undoubted highlight due to its delightful 16th-century frescoes.

Wandering around the grounds is like stepping back in time. The Novodevichy Cemetery is where many famous leaders of the Soviet Union are buried, such as Yeltsin and Khrushchev.

10. Pushkin Museum

Despite its name, the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts actually has no connection at all to the famous poet other than that it was named in his honor after his death. A delight to visit, its extensive collection focuses on European art with masterpieces by Botticelli, Rembrandt, and van Gogh all featuring.

Sculptures, graphic art, paintings and more can be found in its beautiful galleries; various sections look at themes and epochs such as the Renaissance, the Dutch Golden Age, and Byzantine art.

Among the many highlights are the clownish characters which can be found in Cezanne’s Fastnacht (Mardi Gras) and the twirling ballerinas who look so elegant in Degas’ Blue Dancers. Picasso’s Young acrobat on a Ball is also well worth checking out for its interesting use of shapes and colors.

9. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This gorgeous Russian Orthodox cathedral is located on the banks of the Moskva River, just a stone’s throw away from the Kremlin.

The church as it stands today was consecrated in 2000, as the original church that stood here was destroyed on the command of Josef Stalin in 1931 due to the anti-religious campaign.

With its delightful golden dome, spires and dazzling white facades, the Christ the Savior Cathedral is stunning. The interior is just as captivating to wander around, with its beautifully tiled floors and impressive altar.

8. Lenin Mausoleum

Opened to the public in 1924, Lenin’s Mausoleum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Moscow. The red granite structure is located at the heart of the city in Red Square.

Lenin’s embalmed body lies in a glass sarcophagus; it is a somewhat eerie experience walking past the former leader of the Soviet Union but is well worth doing as you understandably can’t do it anywhere else in the world.

After visiting the mausoleum, head to the Kremlin wall right next to it for more graves of important communist figures such as Stalin and Brezhnev.

7. Tretyakov Gallery

Home to the most extensive and impressive collection of Russian fine art in the world, the State Tretyakov Gallery is definitely worth visiting when in Moscow for the wealth of amazing art pieces that it has on display.

Having started out as the private art collection of the Tretyakov brothers, there are now over 130,000 exhibits. Highlights include the iconic Theotokos of Vladimir which you will almost certainly recognise despite probably not knowing the name and Rublev’s Trinity which is considered to be one of highest achievements in Russian art.

An absolute must for art lovers, the State Tretyakov Gallery will delight visitors with all that is has to offer.

6. Kolomenskoye

Once a royal estate, Kolomenskoye is now a museum-reserve and lies a few kilometers outside of the city center. A captivating place to visit, there is a plethora of history on show and the site overlooks the Moskva River.

Consisting of four historical sites, there are extensive gardens for visitors to explore, as well as loads of interesting old buildings, the former village of Kolomenskoye itself and the impressive Palace of the Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich – once considered the Eighth Wonder of the World by contemporaries.

Among the many stunning sights, it is the brilliantly white Ascension Church that is the undoubted highlight – dating back to 1532.

5. Gorky Park

Lying alongside the Moskva River, the huge Gorky Park is a lovely place to visit. Its extensive gardens are home to numerous cultural institutions and visitors should definitely check out the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art and while the eclectic exhibits may not always feature such incredible sights as a balloon-covered rider on a zebra; they certainly always succeed in pushing back the boundaries of art.

Pop-up exhibitions and festivals can be found from time to time in the park itself and there is an open-air theatre and numerous eateries alongside a plethora of leisure activities.

Whether it’s cycling, table tennis or yoga that you are after or beach volleyball and rowing, Gorky Park certainly has it. In winter, there is a huge ice rink for visitors to enjoy.

4. Bolshoi Theatre

The Bolshoi Theatre is the main theater in the country. The amazing opera and ballet performances it has put on over the centuries go a long way in explaining Russia’s rich history of performing arts.

While the Bolshoi Ballet Company was established in 1776, the theater itself was opened in 1825. The glittering, six-tier auditorium is lavishly and decadently decorated; it is a fitting setting for the world-class performances that take place on its stage.

Spending a night watching a performance of such classics as The Nutcracker or Swan Lake at the Bolshoi Theatre is sure to be a memorable experience and the beauty all around you only adds to the sense of occasion.

3. Moscow Kremlin

This famously fortified complex is remarkably home to five palaces and four cathedrals and is the historic, political and spiritual center of the city. The Kremlin serves as the residence for the country’s president. It has been used as a fort, and this fact is made clear by its sheer size. The Kremlin’s outer walls were built in the late 1400s.

Under Ivan III, better known as Ivan the Great, the Kremlin became the center of a unified Russian state, and was extensively remodeled. Three of the Kremlin’s cathedrals date to his reign that lasted from 1462-1505. The Deposition Church and the Palace of Facets were also constructed during this time. The Ivan the Great Bell Tower was built in 1508. It is the tallest tower at the Kremlin with a height of 266 feet (81 meters).

Joseph Stalin removed many of the relics from the tsarist regimes. However, the Tsar Bell, the world’s largest bell, and the Tsar Cannon, the largest bombard by caliber in the world, are among the remaining items from that era. The Kremlin Armory is one of Moscow’s oldest museums as it was established more than 200 years ago. Its diamond collection is impressive.

The Kremlin’s gardens – Taynitsky, Grand Kremlin Public and Alexander – are beautiful. The Kremlin has also served as the religious center of the country, and there is a tremendous number of preserved churches and cathedrals here. The collections contained within the museums include more than 60,000 historical, cultural and artistic monuments. Those who enjoy the performing arts will want to consider attending a ballet or concert at the State Kremlin Palace. Completed in 1961, it is the only modern building in the Kremlin.

2. Red Square

Lying at the heart of Moscow, Red Square is the most important and impressive square in the city. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions due to its wealth of historical sights and cultural landmarks.

Drenched in history, the huge square is home to incredible sights such as the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s Mausoleum, among others. Consequently, it is not to be missed when in Moscow as it really is home to the city’s most stunning monuments.

It is here that many important moments in Russian history took place; the former marketplace has hosted everything from Tsar’s coronations and public ceremonies to rock concerts and Soviet military parades. Wandering around the massive square is a humbling experience and undoubtedly one of the highlights the city has to offer.

1. Saint Basil’s Cathedral

Located in the impressive Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral is gorgeous; its delightful spires appear as if out of a fairytale. The most recognizable building in the country, the cathedral is very much a symbol of Russia. No visit to Moscow is complete without having taken in its unique and distinctive features.

Ivan the Terrible ordered the cathedral’s construction in the mid-16th century, and legend holds that Ivan put out the architect’s eyes so that he would be unable to build another cathedral more glorious than St. Basil’s. Designed to resemble the shape of a bonfire in full flame, the architecture is not only unique to the period in which it was built but to any subsequent period. For various reasons, both Napoleon and Stalin wanted to destroy the cathedral but fortunately did not succeed.

Known for its various colors, shapes and geometric patterns, St. Basil’s Cathedral houses nine different chapels that are all connected by a winding labyrinth of corridors and stairways. On the lower floor, St. Basil’s Chapel contains a silver casket bearing the body of St. Basil the Blessed.

Throughout the cathedral are many beautiful murals, frescoes, wooden icons and other art works and artifacts. Outside the cathedral is a lovely garden with the bronze Monument to Minin and Pozharsky, who rallied an all-volunteer Russian army against Polish invaders during a period of the late 16th century known as the Times of Troubles.

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Tourism Web Portal

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A technological tool for effective communication between the leading players in the Moscow tourism market and representatives of the foreign/regional tourism industry through online events. OBJECTIVES: • Building long-term cooperation with foreign/regional representatives • Raising awareness among foreign/regional representatives of the tourism industry of the tourism opportunities, measures and attractiveness of the city of Moscow in the field of tourist infrastructure development

Moscow City Tourism Committee

The Tourism Committee, or Mostourism, is the executive body of the Moscow City Government that oversees tourist activities in the capital. The Committee is responsible for legislative initiatives, congress and exhibition activities, and event and image projects. As the brand manager for an attractive tourism image for Moscow, Mostourism constantly analyses global trends, offers Russian and foreign tourists what they want, and also uncovers new opportunities for the capital in terms of interesting and rewarding leisure activities.

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Video materials about Moscow

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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How to easily add your driver's license to your Apple Wallet on iPhone, Apple Watch

If you use Apple Wallet, you know it’s an easy place to quickly access things like plane tickets, Apple Pay, insurance cards and your Starbucks card. For some people, it can also house your driver’s license or state-issued identification card. 

Apple says you can use this digital version of your ID to get into bars or concerts, verify your age in some apps or go through security at certain airports just using your iPhone or Apple Watch. 

Virtual forms of identification like this are relatively new and not usable everywhere, so always have a physical form of identification with you in case you’re somewhere that does not accept the virtual version. 

Watch this video to see how easy it is to add your license or State ID to your Apple Wallet.

How to add a driver’s license to Apple Wallet

Just like you’re the only person with your ID, your Apple ID can only be associated with one government-issued ID. It also requires Face ID or Touch ID to be turned on to provide an extra layer of protection for your information. 

To add your license to your Apple Wallet: 

• Tap the plus sign in the Wallet app. 
• Select Driver’s License or State ID.
• Select your state. 
• Scan the front and back of your license. 
• Follow the prompts to confirm your identity. 
• Wait for approval from your state. This usually takes a few minutes. 

After the ID is added to your wallet, you may receive a letter from your state’s Department of Driver Services informing you that your license has been added to an Apple wallet. 

Apple Wallet ID states

This feature is not available in all 50 states.

At the time of publishing, the states that support IDs in your Apple Wallet are:

Apple says the company is working to expand the feature to more states.

TSA digital ID

Some TSA checkpoints allow you to use your digital ID when traveling through airport security. 

To use your digital ID at TSA: 

• Unlock your phone and hold it near the TSA reader. 
• Your photo will be taken. 
• The information TSA is requesting will be displayed on your phone.  
• Double-click the side button to grant TSA access to the information and confirm it using your biometric ID.

Not all TSA checkpoints may support using digital IDs, so also carry a physical form of identification you can present if needed. 

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Tank tours in Moscow

    “Tanks driving” is a real opportunity to variegate your everyday life, brighten up holidays or just get a bunch of ​​emotions, a surge of adrenaline and unspeakable feel of extreme! We offer you, along with your friends, family members, colleagues or new acquaintances, to pay a visit to our tank training ground and for several hours to be in real soldier’s boots. Here you will find various supercool entertainment:

– riding in numerous types of military armoured vehicles and overcoming woodlands, swampy areas, hardly passable roads and various obstacles in a quite hardcore way;

– driving a real tank along the specifically designed routes;

– the real military world crash course, transferring you through the history of tank battles and allowing your personal participation;

– the possibility of shooting various types of small arms (machine guns, Kalashnikov rifles) while riding in armoured vehicles.

    And, sure enough, all that will be accompanied by realistic sounds ambience and pyrotechnics explosions, allowing you to feel a surge of adrenaline first-hand. In addition, you will be provided by friendly attention and service, you will be able to taste the military field cuisine sitting in comfortable tents, and enjoy the real fun of military songs and dances.

    You will experience an unforgettable ride in the T-80, T-72, T-34, T-14, BTR-80, BMP-1, BRM-1K and Jagdpanther.

Tank driving/riding in Moscow

  What is included in the tour price:

✔️ Interpreter (English)

✔️ Military uniform

✔️ Division into teams, safety briefing, history background

✔️ Safety briefing

✔️ Tour of the exposition of military vehicles and equipment

✔️ Tank riding 

✔️ Familiarization with samples of Soviet and German small arms

✔️ Lunch at the military mess.

Duration: the whole program – 1,5-2 hours. Tank riding – 30 minutes.

Tank T-34 tour price

until  01.09.2024

For a group (no more than 10 PAX) 

225000 rub.

Per person from

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The price is valid when ordering in a group on a schedule*

Tank T-55 tour price

For a group (no more than 5 PAX) 

200000 rub.

Tank driving/riding  —  Moscow

"jagdpanther" (replica) .

What is included in the tour price:

✔️ Dressing up military uniform

✔️ Military park sightseeing tour

✔️ Tank riding (4 km through the forest)

Duration: the whole program – 1-1.5 hours.  Tank riding – 15-30 minutes .

Tank tour price 

until 01.09.2024

  Per person

  Per person (+tank rental price)

Shooting a tank gun

T-14 Main Battle Tank "ARMATA" (Replica based on the BMP-1 chassis)

✔️ Tank riding (3 km through the forest)

✔️ Field stripping and reassembling of AK-47 (master class)

✔️ Field lunch (buckwheat with stew meat, bread, sweets, tea)

✔️ Shooting Kalashnikov Assault Rifle with blank cartridges (10 shots per person)

✔️ Visit to the Museum of War Trophies

Duration: the whole program – 1.5-2 hours, tank ride – 15 minutes . 

Tank tour price

For a group (no more than 6 PAX) 

125000 rub.

BRDM-2, BTR-80, BMP-1, T-72, T-80

 Tank tour price

 BMP-1 (no more than 10 PAX)

120000 rub.

   T-72 (no more than 5 PAX)

   T-80  (no more than 5 PAX)

220000 rub.

  PT-76 (no more than 6 PAX)

145000 rub.

✔️ Tank riding

✔️ Division into teams, safety briefing, history

✔️ Demonstration of driving capabilities of modern combat vehicles

✔️ Off-Road driving 

✔️ Extreme route with slides, trenches, gullies

✔️ Obstacle course

✔️ Passage of water obstacles (only for T-72, T-80, BMP-1)

✔️ Ride over a trench – you  in a trench when a tank passes over it (only for T-62, T-80, BMP-1, BTR-80)

✔️ Historical background and familiarization with samples of Soviet and Russian small arms, field stripping and reassembling of AK-47 (master class) 

✔️ Training in tactical shooting techniques

Duration: the whole program – 2-2,5 hours. Tank riding – 30-45 minutes.

Additional services

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Duration: the whole program – 1.5-2 hours, tank ride – 45 minutes . 

 BMP-1 (per person)

Attention. The number of participants is limited. Book your tour in advance!

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We are here to help you 7 days a week and respond within 24 hours. Plus, you can find most answers to your questions right on this page.

We organize group tours every weekend. You can join other tourists. You can also book a private tour any day and time.

  Clothes: we recommend comfortable clothes of dark colour.

  Shoes: you are recommended to wear a footgear resistant to dirt, dust and moisture, preferably on a thick flat sole. Do not wear shoes with heels, with a slippery sole, or ones you are afraid of spoiling. You can take a spare pair of shoes.     

   Accessories: hats, umbrellas, raincoats, tourist thermos – all that is quite worth of taking with you for better comfort.​

    By age: children from the age of four (accompanied by their parents).

    By weight: passenger’s weight should not exceed 120 kg.

Our equipment is completely safe regardless of the chosen program. We also recommend you to have insurance effective in the Russian Federation.

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