First-Time Guide

A First-Time Visitor's Guide to Moscow

Everything you need to know before your first trip — from visa and cash to safety and daily life tips.

Before You Go

Apply for your e-visa at least 2 weeks before travel at evisa.kdmid.ru — 4 days processing, $52 USD.
Get a VPN before departure and install it — Instagram/Facebook are blocked in Russia.
Download Yandex Go (taxis), Yandex Maps (navigation), and Yandex Translate (camera translator).
Carry USD or EUR cash — VISA/Mastercard from outside Russia won't work here.
Get a Yoomoney Tourist Card online before your trip for QR-code payments at stores and restaurants.

Clear immigration with your e-visa PDF and passport. Keep a printed copy in your bag.
Buy a local SIM at airport kiosks — Beeline, MTS, or Megafon (₹500–₹800 for 10 GB).
Take the Aeroexpress train to the city centre (₹1,500, 35–45 min) or a fixed-price taxi (₹2,500–₹4,000).
Exchange $100–$200 at the airport for immediate needs — better rates at city banks.

Moscow is very safe for tourists — the city centre is well-lit and heavily policed.
Keep your passport and e-visa printed copy with you at all times. Hotels keep the original for registration.
Avoid unlicensed taxis — always use Yandex Go. A ride across the centre costs ₹300–₹800.
Police can ask for documents — a photocopy of your passport and visa is sufficient for stops.
Emergency number: 112 (works in English). Tourist police hotline: +7 499 157-29-31.

Tipping: 10% is standard at restaurants if service charge isn't already included. No tipping for taxis.
Water: Don't drink tap water. Buy bottled water from any supermarket (₹30–₹50).
Toilets: Free at malls, restaurants, and museums. Street toilets cost ~₹50–₹100.
Smoking: Banned in restaurants, bars, airports, and most indoor spaces.
Opening hours: Most shops 10 AM–9 PM. Museums often closed on Mondays.