Before you go · Moscow
Moscow essentials
The practical things worth knowing before you arrive. Entry rules change: always check the official sources, and your own government’s travel advice, before you travel.
Updated October 2026
Entry
Entry rules depend on your passport. Check them with the official sources and with your own government’s travel advice before you book, and never pay a third-party site for a visa.
Roubles, cards and cash
Prices in Russia are in roubles (RUB). Before you travel, ask your bank whether your card will work in Russia, and plan to carry enough cash for your stay.
From the airports
Aeroexpress trains (aeroexpress.ru) link Sheremetyevo with the Belorussky rail terminal and Vnukovo with the Kievsky rail terminal, avoiding the city’s traffic.
The Metro
The Moscow Metro, opened in 1935, is the quickest way round the city. Pay with a Troika card, which also works on buses and trams. Signs at the central stations are in Russian and English.
New Year in Moscow
New Year is Moscow’s great winter festival: the streets and squares are lit from December, and rinks open in the parks. Orthodox Christmas falls on 7 January. See our page Christmas and New Year in Moscow.
Customs and etiquette
In Orthodox churches, men remove hats and women usually cover their heads; cover shoulders and knees. In winter, wear warm boots with a good grip: pavements can be icy.
Emergencies
Call 112 from any phone for ambulance, police and fire; the ambulance is also on 103. Travel with insurance that covers medical costs in Russia.
Questions and answers
What currency does Moscow use?
The Russian rouble (RUB).
Will my card work in Moscow?
Ask your bank before you travel, and carry enough cash for your stay.
How do I get from Sheremetyevo to the centre?
By the Aeroexpress train to the Belorussky rail terminal.
What is the emergency number?
112, or 103 for an ambulance.
Entry rules, payments and transport change, sometimes at short notice. Check the official sources and your own government’s travel advice before you travel. Sources: the venues’ own websites and, where those cannot be reached, English Wikipedia (checked 31 October 2026).