summarizeEditor's Summary
I've been flying in and out of Domodedovo Airport in Moscow for years, and it's one of my faves. This airport stands out for its sheer size, cleanliness, and modern amenities. I mean, the moment I stepped inside, I was blown away by its spaciousness and natural light – it's a total game changer for any traveler. From the wide range of dining options to the comfy seating areas, Domodedovo Airport's got it all. But what really impressed me was the ease of use – even for a first-timer like me 12 years ago, the airport's layout was super intuitive, and the staff were super helpful. Of course, like any airport, there are some drawbacks, but I'll get to those later. One thing I love about Domodedovo Airport is the variety of dining options – you can find something for every taste and budget. And let's not forget the modern amenities, like free Wi-Fi and power outlets, which are a total lifesaver. But, as with any airport, there are some downsides. The food and drink prices can be steep, even for a major airport. And sometimes the waiting areas can get crowded, especially during peak travel times. But overall, I think Domodedovo Airport is a must-visit for anyone traveling through Moscow.", "pros": ["The airport's sheer size is seriously impressive, with plenty of space to move around", 'The modern amenities, like free Wi-Fi and power outlets, are a total game changer', 'The variety of dining options is amazing, with something for every taste and budget', "The airport's cleanliness is top-notch, making it a joy to spend time there", 'The staff are super helpful and speak great English, making it easy to navigate', "The airport's layout is super intuitive, making it easy to find your way around", 'The security checks are relatively quick and painless, even during peak travel times'], "cons": ['The food and drink prices are steep, even for a major airport', 'Sometimes the waiting areas can get crowded, especially during peak travel times', "The airport's location, while convenient for some, can be a bit of a trek for others", 'Some of the shops and restaurants can be a bit pricey', 'The security checks can be a bit slow, especially during peak travel times', "The airport's layout can be a bit confusing for first-time visitors", 'The airport's parking options can be a bit limited, especially during peak travel times'], "faq": [{"question": "What's the best way to get to Domodedovo Airport from Moscow city center?", "answer": "The easiest way is to take the Aeroexpress train from Leningradsky Station, which takes about 35 minutes and costs around 500 rubles. You can also take a taxi or Uber, but be prepared for a longer journey and higher costs."}, {"question": "What are the airport's opening hours?", "answer": "Domodedovo Airport is open 24/7, so you can fly in or out at any time of day or night."}, {"question": "Can I exchange currency at the airport?", "answer": "Yes, there are several currency exchange offices throughout the airport, including at the arrivals and departures halls."}, {"question": "What are the airport's baggage restrictions?", "answer": "The airport has a maximum baggage allowance of 20kg for economy class passengers and 30kg for business class passengers."}, {"question": "Can I get a refund if I miss my flight?", "answer": "Yes, if you miss your flight due to reasons beyond your control, you may be eligible for a refund. However, this will depend on the airline's policies and procedures."}, {"question": "What are the airport's facilities for passengers with disabilities?", "answer": "Domodedovo Airport has a range of facilities for passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair-accessible ramps, elevators, and restrooms."}, {"question": "Can I get a SIM card at the airport?", "answer": "Yes, there are several mobile phone operators with kiosks at the airport, including Beeline, MTS, and Megafon."}, {"question": "What are the airport's parking options?", "answer": "Domodedovo Airport has several parking options, including short-term and long-term parking, as well as valet parking."}, {"question": "Can I rent a car at the airport?", "answer": "Yes, there are several car rental companies with desks at the airport, including Europcar, Hertz, and Avis."}], "meta_title": "Domodedovo Airport Review: A Hidden Gem in Moscow", "meta_description": "Discover the best of Domodedovo Airport, including its modern amenities, spacious seating areas, and efficient security checks.", "og_title": "Domodedovo Airport Review: A Must-Visit for Travelers", "og_description": "Get the inside scoop on Domodedovo Airport, including its pros and cons, and find out why it's a must-visit for travelers.
I've been flying in and out of Domodedovo Airport in Moscow for years, and I've gotta say, it's one of my favorites. As a frequent flyer, I've had my fair share of airport experiences, but this one stands out for its sheer size, cleanliness, and modern amenities.
Domodedovo Airport, MoscowDomodedovo Airport (DME) is one of four major international airports in Moscow, the largest air hub in Russia, located southeast of the capital.
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My First Encounter with Domodedovo Airport.
I remember my first time at Domodedovo Airport like it was yesterday. It was 12 years ago, and I was a wide-eyed kid taking my first ever flight. Before that, I'd never set foot in an airport or seen a plane up close. When I stepped into the airport, I was blown away by its sheer size. It seemed endless, and I had no idea where to go or how to find my gate, buy a ticket, or get to the security check. Luckily, there was an information desk where staff helped me out and explained everything.
After that first flight, I've been through Domodedovo Airport at least twice a year. Now, it doesn't intimidate me at all. I've learned my way around and know what to expect.
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A Little Info about Domodedovo Airport.
Domodedovo Airport is located about 45 kilometers from Moscow's city center and 25 km from the MKAD ring road. You can get here by taking a marshrutka or bus from the Domodedovskaya metro station, or by taking the Aeroexpress from Pavlovsky Station. If you prefer, you can also take a taxi. When I travel alone, I usually take the marshrutka, but with kids, it's more convenient for us to take the aeroexpress.
The airport itself is quite large, covering over 500,000 square meters. It has multiple levels, and the building is fully glazed.
Domodedovo Airport, MoscowJust like the exterior, the interior of the airport is massive.
Domodedovo Airport, Moscow
Over the last five years, we've been flying through a different airport, but visiting Domodedovo this year made me think that there were fewer passengers. Maybe it's because it was winter, and we flew about a month before New Year's. It's interesting to wonder how it'll be during the summer.
Moscow Domodedovo Airport
Moscow Domodedovo AirportThe airport itself is done in light tones, and there are plenty of lighting sources and natural light pouring in through the huge windows. It's bright and spacious.
Moscow Domodedovo Airport
Moscow Domodedovo AirportThere are plenty of seats in the airport. They're comfortable, in a nice turquoise hue.
Moscow Domodedovo AirportHowever, in the waiting area, it can happen that all the seats in the departure zone are taken, and you have to look for a spot a bit further away.
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT MOSCOW DOMODEDOVO AIRPORT:
✅ Spacious. The airport has huge areas, making it easy for passengers to move around with their luggage. There's no crowded feeling, and you don't have to squeeze between people when navigating the airport. Plus, it's still being expanded – not long ago, a new terminal was opened, and we saw plans for another construction project near the airport entrance.
Moscow Domodedovo Airport✅ Clean. The entire airport is spotless. The floors are constantly being cleaned by special machines, and there are recycling bins with sorting everywhere. You won't find any mess anywhere.
Moscow Domodedovo Airport✅ Plenty of signs. Despite the airport's massive size, it's relatively easy to navigate. There are signs everywhere – on every floor – and if you do get lost, you can always ask for directions at the information desk or from the airport staff.
Domodedovo Airport, MoscowDomodedovo Airport, MoscowDomodedovo Airport, Moscow
✅ It's a breeze to navigate with luggage.I was blown away by how easy it is to get around the airport with your bags. Everywhere you go, you can grab a free trolley and load up your luggage and carry-on, making it a lot easier to get to where you need to go. There are trolleys available in baggage claim and check-in areas, and they're super handy. Just be aware that you won't be able to take them through security 😁. But honestly, you won't need them after you've checked in for your flight.
Domodedovo Airport, MoscowAnd for extra convenience, there are lifts and ramps to help you get around with your luggage.
Domodedovo Airport, MoscowDomodedovo Airport, MoscowDomodedovo Airport, Moscow✅ The escalators at the airport are a game-changer.With no luggage, you can zip around the airport on the escalators. Some areas even have stairs, but the escalators are definitely the way to go 😁.
Domodedovo Airport, MoscowDomodedovo Airport, Moscow✅ You're spoiled for choice when it comes to grabbing a bite to eat.Domodedovo Airport has an insane number of cafes, restaurants, and food courts to choose from. Whether you're in the mood for something quick and easy or a sit-down meal, you'll find it here. Just be prepared for the prices to be a bit steeper - on average, you're looking at double the cost of eating outside the airport. In some areas, it's even triple the price.
Domodedovo Airport, Moscow Domodedovo Airport, Moscow Domodedovo Airport, MoscowWe grabbed a bite to eat at 'Vkusno i tochno', and on the way back, we stopped by Burger King.
Domodedovo Airport, Moscow Domodedovo Airport, MoscowEvery now and then, I crave a burger or some fries. And the prices are pretty reasonable.\xa0
✅ The abundance of shops. There are plenty of shops in the airport, almost one on every corner. You can find Magrit Go here, with prices just like everywhere else in the airport.
Domodedovo Airport, MoscowThere are other shops too, selling everything from food to toys, delicacies, cosmetics...you name it. But the prices are a bit steep.
Domodedovo Airport, MoscowWater costs around 100 rubles on average. Some places are pricier, while others are cheaper. You can find it everywhere, from shops to vending machines.
Domodedovo Airport, Moscow✅ The airport has water purification systems (like water coolers). They're available to all passengers, at least according to the Domodedovo Airport website. However, they are only located in a few areas of the airport.Here are the main locations where you can find the water purification systems:
DMEMED Medical Centre: On the first floor, in the international check-in area, opposite counter 156.Family ZoneFamily Service ZoneChildren's Rooms: In the children's sectors.Accessible ZoneChildren's Play Areas (in the sterile zone).We were really grateful for the water purification system located in the Family Service room. It had both hot and cold water.
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✅ One of the things I appreciated about Domodedovo Airport is the abundance of baby changing rooms and restrooms. There are plenty of toilets throughout the airport, and I've never had to wait in line for one. Many of the standard toilets are located near disabled toilets and baby changing rooms, which is super helpful when traveling with little ones. As someone who frequently travels with kids, the baby changing rooms have been a lifesaver when we're on the go.
Domodedovo Airport, Moscow Domodedovo Airport, Moscow
✅ Plenty of screens and art installations. I was pleasantly surprised by the number of screens throughout the airport. While there are certainly a lot of ads, I think they add to the airport's modern feel. The screens are big and bright, and there are also digital boards everywhere that make it easy to track your flight status.
Domodedovo Airport, Moscow Domodedovo Airport, MoscowAnd it's not just the screens – there are also art installations scattered throughout the airport that add to its charm.
Domodedovo Airport, MoscowThere are also plenty of power outlets throughout the airport, which is a must-have in today's world where we're all glued to our devices.
Domodedovo Airport, Moscow Domodedovo Airport, Moscow✅ Plenty of power outlets. I was really impressed by how many power outlets there are throughout the airport. And the best part is that some of them are even built into the seats, so you can charge your phone or laptop while you're sitting down. It's a small thing, but it makes a big difference when you're traveling.
Domodedovo Airport, Moscow✅ Abundant check-in counters. There are plenty of check-in counters for different airlines, but it's worth noting that some airlines only have a few counters open at a time.
Domodedovo Airport, Moscow Domodedovo Airport, Moscow
✅ Having jetways available is a game-changer.I'm a big fan of jetways - they're the most convenient way to get to your gate, especially on cold winter days. Domodedovo Airport has plenty of jetways, and we were lucky enough to use them both ways during our recent trip.
Domodedovo Airport, Moscow✅ The airport has plenty of lounges where you can relax.Domodedovo Airport has a mini version of the AeroHotel, where you can unwind and recharge before your flight.
Domodedovo Airport, MoscowFor more on our experience with the main AeroHotel, check out this article.\xa0
For families with young kids, there's also a free and super-comfortable \'Mother and Child\' room available.
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ARE THERE ANY NEGATIVES ABOUT DOMODEDOVO AIRPORT?
⭕️ The biggest downside is that everything is pretty pricey.
⭕️ And, occasionally, there's not enough space in the boarding area.
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Overall, these negatives aren't a big deal for me.
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MY OVERALL IMPRESSION OF DOMODEDOVO AIRPORT.
I left Domodedovo Airport with only positive impressions. It's a modern, large, bright, and spacious airport. Everything is spotless, and it's easy to get around with luggage or kids. There are plenty of places to grab a bite and relax before your flight. Despite the minor drawbacks, I'd give Domodedovo Airport 5 stars and highly recommend it for your travels.
