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Getting around Moscow

Public transport: 

The easiest way to get around Moscow is using the efficient but often crowded Metro system (http://engl.mosmetro.ru). Entrances are marked by a large ‘M' and services leave regularly throughout the day. Stations often have multiple names - one for each line that intersects at that point. Buying a card for 10 trips affords a small discount. Monthly passes are also available.

Moscow also has an extensive network of buses, trolleybuses and trams, run by Moscow City Transport (tel: (495) 233 3995). These can be unpleasantly crowded during rush hour. Bilyeti (tickets) may be purchased from kiosks or directly from the driver at a slight premium. Unified City Transport Passes, available from metro stations and kiosks, are valid on buses, trams and metro.

Taxis: 

Official taxis are yellow with a ‘T' sign. These have a sealed meter and a printed fare table on display, but drivers may insist on a negotiated fare. Tipping is not expected. Reliable taxi firms in Moscow include AllTaxi (tel: (495) 504 3010) and Taxi-Maxim (tel: (495) 231 2222).

Moscow also has an extensive network of marshrutka (minibuses) that follow set routes and can be flagged down at bus stops.

Driving: 

Driving in Moscow is difficult and rush hour traffic jams are common. Trumped-up fines requested by traffic police are another good reason to avoid driving in Moscow. For those that do, guarded car parks are safer as theft is common - many of the larger hotels offer this facility to non-guests.

Car hire: 

Car hire is expensive in Moscow. Some firms will only hire out cars with a driver. International firms represented in Moscow include Avis, Komsomolskaya ploschad 3 (tel: (925) 046 9949: www.avis.com) and Europcar, Voznesensky pereulok 7 (tel: (495) 937 3082; www.europcar.com). Drivers must be at least 21 years old and have one year of driving experience.

Bicycle hire: 

Bicycle hire is available at some Moscow parks; otherwise, heavy traffic makes cycling hazardous.

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