Moscow, with its grand boulevards, historic squares, and modern business centers, is one of the world’s most fascinating cities to explore. But for international visitors, a common question arises: “How do I get around such a huge city?”
The good news is that Moscow offers one of the most efficient, affordable, and well-connected transportation systems in the world. Here’s a complete guide to help you navigate the Russian capital with ease.
1. The Metro – Moscow’s Crown Jewel
The Moscow Metro is the backbone of the city’s public transport network and a must-see attraction in its own right. Opened in 1935, it now has over 250 stations and serves millions of passengers daily.
- Efficiency: Trains run every 90 seconds during rush hours, ensuring minimal waiting times.
- Cost: A single ride costs only a fraction compared to Western cities.
- Troika Card: This rechargeable card can be used on metro, buses, trams, and even commuter trains.
- Highlights: Many stations are architectural masterpieces—nicknamed “underground palaces”—with marble columns, mosaics, and chandeliers.
👉 Don’t miss stations like Komsomolskaya, Mayakovskaya, and Novoslobodskaya for stunning designs.
2. Buses, Trams & Trolleybuses
When the metro doesn’t reach your destination, Moscow’s surface transport steps in.
- Coverage: Extensive routes connecting outer districts, residential neighborhoods, and smaller attractions.
- Modern Fleet: New buses often include Wi-Fi and electronic displays in Russian and English.
- Night Services: Night buses operate while the metro is closed (1:00 am–5:30 am), making 24/7 travel possible.
- Payments: The Troika card works seamlessly across buses, trams, and trolleybuses.
👉 Useful for reaching places like Sparrow Hills or exploring quieter districts beyond the city center.
3. Commuter Trains – Explore Beyond the City
Moscow is also the gateway to Russia’s historic towns and countryside. The Elektrichka commuter trains connect the capital with nearby destinations:
- Sergiev Posad – Famous for the Trinity Lavra Monastery (UNESCO site).
- Kolomna – A medieval town with kremlins and charming old streets.
- Zvenigorod – Nicknamed “Little Switzerland” for its scenic landscapes.
For speed and comfort, look for Lastochka express trains. Tickets are affordable and can be purchased at stations or online.
4. New Rail Systems – MCC & MCD
Moscow has modernized its transportation with new rail projects:
- MCC (Moscow Central Circle): A 54 km orbital railway line linking the city’s outskirts, perfect for avoiding the crowded center.
- MCD (Moscow Central Diameters): Cross-city lines functioning like an above-ground metro, connecting suburbs directly.
Both accept the Troika card and are popular with both locals and visitors.
5. Taxis & Ride-Hailing Apps
For comfort and convenience, Yandex Taxi and Uber (integrated with Yandex) are widely available.
- Affordable: Prices are lower than in many European capitals.
- Safe & Reliable: Cars are plentiful and wait times are short.
- Payment: You can pay directly through the app with a credit card.
- Extras: Many cars offer free Wi-Fi, making it easy to stay connected.
👉 A good option if you’re traveling with luggage or visiting places not easily reached by metro.
6. Airports & City Transfers
Moscow has three main international airports:
- Sheremetyevo (SVO): Main hub for most international flights, 29 km northwest of the center.
- Domodedovo (DME): Located 42 km south, serving many long-haul routes.
- Vnukovo (VKO): 28 km southwest, popular for European flights.
Each airport is linked to the city center by Aeroexpress trains, reaching downtown stations (Belorussky, Paveletsky, Kievsky) in 35–45 minutes.
👉 Pro tip: Avoid rush-hour traffic by choosing Aeroexpress instead of taxis.
7. Walking & Cycling – Slow Down and Explore
While public transport is excellent, some of Moscow’s most memorable experiences come from exploring on foot. Areas like Red Square, Arbat Street, and Zaryadye Park are best enjoyed by walking.
For a different perspective, Moscow also offers a bike-sharing system (Velobike), especially useful along the Moscow River embankments and wide boulevards.
Final Tips for Visitors
- Buy a Troika card upon arrival for the easiest and cheapest way to travel.
- Use apps like Yandex Maps or Moscow Transport to plan your routes in English.
- Learn a few Cyrillic letters—it makes station names easier to recognize.
- Don’t rush! Sometimes the journey (especially on the metro) is just as fascinating as the destination.
✈️ With these options, getting around Moscow is not only simple but also an enriching part of the travel experience. From underground palaces to riverside trams and high-speed trains, the city’s transport system ensures you’ll reach every landmark with ease.
Want to Explore Further? Head Back to the Moscow Travel Guide