Moscow’s historic core and cultural institutions are among the most impressive in Europe.
- Red Square — Stand in the city’s iconic square, framed by the Kremlin walls, GUM department store and the State Historical Museum.
- The Kremlin — Visit the cathedrals of Cathedral Square and the treasures of the Armoury Chamber.
- St Basil’s Cathedral — Admire the famous colourful onion domes and explore its maze of small chapels.
- Moscow Metro — Ride between ornate stations decorated with mosaics, chandeliers and sculptures.
- Bolshoi Theatre — Attend a ballet or opera at one of the world’s most renowned stages.
- State Tretyakov Gallery — Discover a superb collection of Russian art, from icons to the twentieth century.
- Zaryadye and Gorky parks — Relax in modern landscaped parks along the Moskva River.
Moscow has a humid continental climate, with warm summers and long, cold winters. From May to September days are long and pleasant, ideal for walking, river cruises and outdoor cafés, while June brings especially long evenings.
Winter, from December to February, is cold and snowy, but the city is atmospheric, with ice rinks, festive lights and New Year celebrations. Spring and autumn are shorter transition seasons and can be wet and changeable, though September often brings golden foliage in the parks.
Moscow has three main international airports. Sheremetyevo lies about 30 km north-west of the city centre, while Vnukovo is to the south-west and Domodedovo to the south.
Express trains run from Sheremetyevo to Belorussky station in central Moscow, and similar rail links connect the other airports with city-centre stations. Buses link the airports with metro stations, and taxis can be booked at official counters or through local ride-hailing apps. Journey times by road vary greatly with traffic, often an hour or more.
Staying within or near the Garden Ring keeps you close to the main sights and metro lines.
- Kitay-Gorod and Tverskoy — Ideal for first-timers, a short walk from Red Square, theatres and restaurants.
- Arbat — Suits visitors who enjoy pedestrian streets, historic buildings and cafés.
- Zamoskvorechye — A charming district of old churches and mansions near the Tretyakov Gallery.
- Presnensky — Good for business travellers, near the Moscow City towers and modern hotels.
- Travel advice: Check your government’s latest travel advice for Russia before booking and again before departure, as it can change at short notice.
- Money: Many internationally issued bank cards may not work in Russia, so confirm payment options before you travel.
- Getting around: The metro is fast and extensive; station names are shown in Cyrillic, with Latin transliteration at many stations.
- Weather: In winter, wear warm layers, a hat, gloves and boots with good grip for icy pavements.
- Language: English is less widely spoken than in many European capitals; a translation app and knowing the Cyrillic alphabet help a great deal.
Frequently asked questions
Which airport serves Moscow?
Moscow is served mainly by Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO), as well as Vnukovo (VKO) and Domodedovo (DME).
How do I get from the airport to the city centre?
Express trains link the airports with central railway stations; buses to the metro, official taxis and ride-hailing apps are also available.
What currency is used in Moscow?
Russia uses the Russian rouble (RUB). Check in advance whether your bank card will work in Russia.
Do I need a visa to visit Russia?
Entry requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Check RwandAir’s travel requirements tool or the official government website before travelling.
When is the best time to visit Moscow?
May to September offers long, pleasant days, while December to February suits travellers who want snowy winter scenery.
Is the Moscow Metro worth visiting as a sight?
Yes. Many central stations, especially on the Circle Line, are decorated with mosaics, marble and chandeliers, making a ride between them a sightseeing experience in itself.
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