Getting Around Moscow: Metro, Buses and Taxis

Moscow is a large city, and knowing the main ways of getting around makes a first visit calmer. This page introduces the Metro, buses and taxis, explains how to think about tickets and payment in general terms, and gives simple tips for planning routes, avoiding rush hours and travelling with luggage. Fares, routes and payment options can change, so confirm the details with the official transport operators.

The main ways to get around

Many visitors use the Metro as their main way of getting around, because it covers much of the city. Buses, trams, trolleybuses and the surface rail lines, such as the Moscow Central Circle and the Central Diameters, add more options.

Taxis are also available. The right choice depends on where you are going, the time of day and how much luggage you have. Our how-to guides explain the Central Circle and the Central Diameters in more detail.

• Metro: usually the most direct way across the center.
• Surface rail: the Central Circle and Central Diameters link districts.
• Buses and trams: useful for short routes and some areas without a station.
• Taxis: handy with luggage or late at night.

Tickets and payment in general terms

Tickets for public transport are usually available from ticket offices, machines or apps, and some systems accept cards or a travel card. Which methods work for you can depend on your provider and your situation, and the options can change.

Check the current fares and payment options on the official website of the Moscow Metro and the other operators before you travel. It helps to carry some cash in rubles as a back-up, and to keep your ticket or card until the end of the journey.

• Check the official operator sites for current fares and ticket types.
• Find out which payment methods work for your cards and phone.
• Keep some cash as a back-up.
• Keep your ticket or card until you leave the station.

Plan your routes

Plan your route before you set off, and note the lines, the interchange stations and the exit you need. Station names are shown in Russian, and many stations also show Latin letters or English announcements, but this can vary, so it helps to know the stop names in advance.

Large interchange stations can have long passages, so allow extra time for transfers. A saved offline map and a screenshot of your route can help if you lose your connection.

• Note the line colors and the names of your stations.
• Check the direction of travel on the platform.
• Allow extra time for long transfers.
• Save your route offline.

Rush hours and luggage

The busiest times are usually the weekday morning and evening rush hours, when trains and passages are crowded. If you can, travel outside these times, especially with luggage.

Check the rules for large bags with the operator, and consider a taxi for heavy luggage. If you need to store luggage, our how-to guide lists the options we cover, and you should check the hours and conditions with the provider.

• Avoid weekday rush hours if you can.
• Pack light, and keep your bag close in crowded trains.
• Consider a taxi for heavy luggage.
• Check storage options with the provider.

Quick checklist

• Look up the official fare and ticket information
• Check which payment methods work for you
• Carry some cash in rubles as a back-up
• Note your lines, stations and exits in advance
• Save your route and map offline
• Avoid rush hours if you can
• Plan a taxi for heavy luggage

Official sources

• Moscow Metro
• Official portal of the City of Moscow

Frequently asked questions

What is the easiest way to get around Moscow?

Many visitors use the Metro, since it covers much of the city. Check the current fares and payment options on the official Moscow Metro website, and use buses or taxis where the Metro does not go.

How do I pay for the Metro?

Options usually include ticket offices, machines and cards or apps, but what works for you can depend on your provider. Check the official operator website, and carry some cash as a back-up.

When is the Metro busiest?

The weekday morning and evening rush hours are usually the busiest. If you can, travel at other times, particularly with luggage, and allow extra time for transfers.

Are taxis a good option?

They can be useful with luggage or at night. Use an official taxi service that you have checked in advance, agree how the fare is calculated and keep your booking details.

These are general tips. Rules and conditions depend on your situation and can change: please confirm all details with the official source before you travel.