Planning a trip to Russia? Here's everything you need to know about local transportation options.

The Metro

The metro is undoubtedly the most practical and economical way to get around the city.

In Moscow, a single metro journey costs an average of 55 rubles.

Moscow Metro: True Artistic Masterpieces

Moscow's metro is renowned as the most beautiful in the world and is now visited like a genuine museum. It captivates visitors with its marble halls, frescoes, mosaics, statues, and immense chandeliers.

It's possible to visit solely to discover the beauty of its galleries. Don't miss Komsomolskaya, one of the capital's most stunning stations.

Other Urban Transportation

Trams

Moscow has 50 tram lines. The average cost of a journey in the Russian capital is 55 rubles.

Buses

Russia has several types of buses: trolleybuses, shared minibuses (Marchroutka), long-distance buses, and short-distance buses.

We do not recommend buses for long journeys and instead recommend trains or private cars for greater security.

Trains

Russia's railway network is very well developed and well-maintained. It spans approximately 86,000 km, making it one of the world's largest railway networks.

In Russia, schedules are strictly adhered to—trains depart and arrive precisely on time. It's recommended to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure.

Apart from Russia's high-speed train, the Sapsan, which connects Moscow and Saint Petersburg, Russian trains are relatively slow. You'll need patience for longer journeys and should bring entertainment for these extended trips.

Traveling Russia by the Trans-Siberian

Journeys aboard trains on this legendary line, crossing multiple time zones, remain a dream for many travelers. It's worth noting that the Trans-Siberian comes in 3 branches:

– the Trans-Siberian (Moscow – Vladivostok),

– the Trans-Mongolian (Moscow – Ulan Bator)

– the Trans-Manchurian (Moscow – Beijing).

The "Rossiya" train, for example, connects Moscow to Vladivostok and passes through 990 stations. It covers nearly 9,285 km, a distance typically completed in a week.

Different wagon classes on the Trans-Siberian:

– First-class car, also called "Spalny vagon" or SV: features 2 berths per compartment (the most comfortable)

– Second-class car or "koupé": features 4 berths per compartment

– Third-class car or "platskartny": features 4 berths in an open compartment

Each wagon interior is equipped with a samovar, designed to heat water for tea, available to all passengers.

Prices for each class vary by season. For certain trains, first and second-class tickets include dining service.

Good to Know

Before your train journey, stock up on some food provisions. Hot water is provided free of charge on trains. Remember to bring a cup so you can enjoy tea, coffee, or instant noodles.

When the train passes through China, the locomotive and wagon axles are replaced with smaller models. This is because the rail gauge differs between the two countries: 1,520 mm on the Russian side and 1,435 mm on the Chinese side.

Depending on schedules and routes, the locomotive and dining car are changed when crossing borders, as trains are not operated solely by Russia.

Train tickets for routes within Russian territory can be purchased online on the official website of RZD, the country's largest railway company. You can also buy your ticket directly at the station.

Important:

– A ticket is valid only for a specific itinerary. If you wish to continue to another destination, you must purchase another ticket.

– If your route passes through Mongolia and China, you'll need a visa even if your stay is under 30 days.

– If you've booked online, be sure to print your ticket before heading to the station.

Air Travel

For rapid travel across Russia, nothing beats domestic flights. Numerous local airlines operate domestic routes: Aeroflot, Rossiya, and S7 Airlines are among the most well-known and safest options. It's always best to book tickets in advance.

Taxis

Taxis are very convenient for getting around the city. Several companies are available for your trips: GetTaxi or Yandex (local operator). Taxis can be booked through dedicated applications.