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Moscow City Guide
We've put together the ultimate guide to Moscow, packed with insider knowledge on the city's top attractions, secret spots, and local favorites. Whether you're looking for iconic landmarks or off-the-beaten-path adventures, our guide's got the inside scoop to make your trip truly unforgettable.
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A Moscow Native Spills the Beans: Insider Tips for Those Moving to the City
summarizeEditor's Summary
I've lived in Moscow my whole life, and I'm here to give you the real lowdown on what it's like to call this crazy city home. From the world-class metro system to the stunning architecture, Moscow's got it all. But, let's be real, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. The traffic is a nightmare, and the crowds can be overwhelming. So, if you're thinking of making the move, here's what you need to know: the city's got a rich history and culture, with plenty of museums, galleries, and historical landmarks to explore. The food scene is also on point, with everything from traditional Russian cuisine to modern fusion restaurants. And, despite the crowds, the people are friendly and welcoming. Of course, there are some downsides - the cost of living is high, and the winters can be brutal. But, if you're up for the challenge, Moscow's got a lot to offer.
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A Moscow Native Spills the Beans: Insider Tips for Those Moving to the City
Hello everyone!
I'm guessing this review is going to be a bit longer than usual – it's the biggest one I've ever written, and I'm still not sure I'll be able to fit everything in.
I'm a born-and-bred Muscovite, and I've been living in the best city on earth for over two and a half decades now.
I'll try to be as objective as possible and look at my beloved city from both positive and negative sides. Some people might not like it, but my principle is to be honest – with others and with myself.
I'm from the Hamovniki district, but I've spent most of my life in Otradnoye. Despite that, I've been to hundreds of places across our vast country and even lived on the periphery for a bit.
The Kremlin, MoscowDon't mind the photos too much – they're a bit all over the place, so let's focus on the text instead. I hope you'll enjoy it!
How would I sum up Moscow in a nutshell? Who can be considered a true Muscovite?
I've been thinking about how to describe this massive city for ages. Here's my five-word summary: huge, dynamic, crowded, hometown, and modern. Every person experiences the city in their own way, even two neighbors might have different views on the same thing. For me, Moscow is the city of opportunities.
MoscowLet's talk about the term 'true Muscovite.' Officially, it's someone born in Moscow, with their parents and grandparents also hailing from the city. I'm with that definition. People who move here and spend two weeks living in a cramped apartment aren't considered locals, sorry, I couldn't resist.
MoscowIs it true that Muscovites are gloomy and grumpy?
I think every person is unique, so it's not fair to label them. But there's some truth to this, and I'm guilty of it too: the constant hustle and bustle of city life can be exhausting, leaving you rushing around, stressed, and not smiling. You almost become invisible to the people around you.
I've got a fast-paced walk, and when I'm out for a stroll, I almost jog – like I'm running late. That's a trait of people living in the fast lane. It's not healthy, let's be honest.
MoscowNow, the sensitive topic of having high self-esteem: I do value myself and my contributions to the city. However, I never go around boasting about it or telling people who I am. If we look back at history, every person was once an immigrant. We're all on the same planet, and Moscow is just one of its cities.
MoscowBut if someone were to criticize me first, I'm ready to give them a piece of my mind.
MoscowLet's be real, every city has its own unique charm and quirks, and that's totally natural and explainable from a scientific perspective.
So, what do I love most about this city? Its advantages, hands down.
I'm going to make this the biggest and most important section, because it's a game-changer.
First off, you've got to talk about the amazing service and wide range of products and services available. It's a rare occasion when you can't find what you're looking for here. You've got millions of shops, boutiques, huge (and not-so-huge) malls, markets, and points of sale. I never have to stress about finding something because it's just not available. It's all here.
MoscowI've got to give a special shout-out to delivery services. There are literally dozens of them, and almost all of them are ready to deliver food, clothes, and even tech (!!!) right to your doorstep, including big-ticket items. You can even buy a car through Ozon. I'm not going to get into prices, but the fact remains that everything you need is ridiculously easy to get your hands on.
MoscowSame goes for meds. There are pharmacies galore, no matter where you are (excluding Botkinsky and Losinov Island, of course). You'll always find at least one within a 500-meter radius. I highly recommend checking out 'Zdorov Ru', 'Apteki stolichki', and sometimes 'April'. Prices here are usually the cheapest. In my 'outliers', I've found 'Rigla' and '36.6' to be the best options. Some meds are even three times cheaper than their original price.
Moscow2. Unbelievable public transportation. Inside the city (and beyond) there's an enormous number of metro stations, a sea of buses, electric trains, MCD, MCD, even water buses that I wrote about before. Wherever you are, you'll find some form of transportation within a 10-15 minute walk, and within a 20-minute radius, there's a metro station. The monorail, which was once a part of the city and a symbol of the 2000s, has left the scene. It might sound weird, but when it closed, I got a little emotional. As a mode of transportation, it was pretty mediocre.
Moscow, Otradnoe stationI love the metro, except for the fact that it's constantly getting more expensive. Nevertheless, that's its only minor drawback. The metro system here is extensive, clean, easy to navigate, and most importantly, safe. You don't have to worry about losing an organ when traveling to the end station. The navigation is straightforward, even a kid could understand it. The only complexities might arise at complex transfers and intersections, like at Petrovsko-Razumovskaya station, where trains from both the gray and green lines arrive. Just follow the signs above the platforms)
Moscow3. Top-notch and high-tech medicine.
I've seen people take out mortgages and buy studios the size of my closet just to get a Moscow healthcare card, and that's not just my imagination - my mom works in the medical field, so I've seen it firsthand. And our medicine is indeed strong. There are plenty of free polyclinics and hospitals working within the EMIAS system under the OMS program. The only issue is the human factor - even in the most high-tech hospital, some 'professor' might give you a diagnosis based on Google because they can't think for themselves. There are plenty of polyclinics, and they're being renovated right now. Visiting them is a pleasure, except for the crowds of migrants and shady characters at women's and children's clinics.
MoscowOn top of that, almost the entire range of specialized surgeries and procedures is available, and getting an MRI/CT scan and other research done quickly is a breeze - just get a referral if you need one. I also haven't had any issues with getting an appointment with a doctor, and often there are slots available the same day. However, my polyclinic is closed to new patients.
MoscowI've gotta say, Moscow's medical care is seriously top-notch. I've got a personal story to back it up - my dad had a heart attack in Vladimir Oblast, and the hospital in Aleksandrov was basically just doling out painkillers. We got him to Moscow on a private ambulance, and they performed a stenting procedure and other advanced surgery for free. It was a lifesaver, plain and simple. The harsh reality is that people only move here to get medical help in a real emergency. That's just not right - medical care should be available all across Russia, not just in a few select cities.
Moscow4. You'll never be bored here.
Moscow's got a ton of events, concerts, and exhibitions going on all the time. Basta can perform in the metro, and you can bet your bottom dollar there'll be some kind of scene in the city center. There are loads of clubs, bars, and other places I've never been and probably never will.
5. A ton of job opportunities and places to work. When my friends say they've been looking for a job for years and still can't find one, I just shake my head. Want a side hustle? Go to any convenience store or warehouse, and you can make a decent wage. You've grown professionally? Great, Moscow is home to hundreds of thousands of companies, including international ones. If you've got a calling, a head for business, and a strong work ethic, you can expect a good income.
Moscow6. A pretty chill climate. Don't believe the weather forecast on TV, where every day is 'orange alert' and catastrophe. It doesn't rain that often, and winters are snowy: sometimes it's a real snowstorm, and sometimes it's just a light dusting. There's a classic in-between season, and summers are pretty standard. It's rare to feel a chill, and the atmosphere is suitable for most healthy people. Hurricanes aren't a regular occurrence.
MoscowThe only downside is the air quality. It's not great, but not as bad as, say, China. You can still breathe easily.
Moscow7. The opportunities and realization. For me, Moscow is the place where it's easier and faster to realize yourself, no matter what you're good at. Just a fact.
MoscowWhat I don't like about Moscow? Its downsides.
Let's face it, every place has its downsides, and Moscow's no exception.
Moscow1. The sheer number of migrants and locals. If you've lived in Moscow for a while, you'll agree with me: by evening, some areas turn into ghettos where you're unlikely to hear Russian being spoken, and if you close your eyes, you might not even know where you are – Russia or Dushanbe. This often leads to conflicts.
Setting aside the issue of migrants from Central Asia, I'd say Moscow is seriously overcrowded. There's a lack of space in nurseries and schools, and many of them are closed to new students due to restrictions. You'll find huge crowds in any public space, regardless of the day. It's overwhelming for me.
MoscowAnd, of course, there are a lot of people who love driving, so traffic jams (especially early mornings and evenings) are a normal occurrence. On the outer metro stations, you might have to queue to get into the train, and if you're a car enthusiast, you'll know that spending hours in traffic jams is a classic part of your life. Taxis here are also extremely pricey.
Moscow2. The cost of housing, rent, food, and services.
A regular taxi ride can cost up to 3000 rubles in bad weather, and as for rent, I won't even mention it – a decent one-bedroom apartment will set you back at least 50-55 thousand rubles per month. I'm a landlord myself, so I'm well aware of the market situation. Of course, you can find cheaper options, but the condition of the place will be like something out of a grandma's house.
Over the past few years, the average square meter has skyrocketed due to demand, especially when the mortgage subsidy was still alive.
MoscowEven the most basic household expenses have become eye-wateringly expensive: a leaky faucet? a plumber will come, take a tenner, and leave without fixing it. Need a massage or a session with a private psychologist? be prepared to shell out between 3000-5000 roubles per session. And you might need a dozen of those. And what about a tutor or a speech therapist for your kid?
Moscow3. Dubious architecture and new developments.
Many Muscovites have likely noticed that most new buildings look eerily similar: an abundance of windows, minimal or non-existent balconies, subpar finishes, construction materials, and engineering systems. The norm has become a situation where a 'Business Class' high-rise building has lifts that don't work for months, no hot water, a constantly changing management company, and so on.
MoscowPeople are lured in by the 'Comfort' label, a concierge in the lobby, and coffee machines, but what's the point if you can hear your neighbor from the floor above and forget about peace and quiet?
This orchestra of new developments and Soviet-era buildings looks simply strange and out of place, like a bad joke. Although, it's worth noting that the facades of these buildings are now being renovated and restored to their former glory.
Moscow4. A frenetic pace of life. It's like everyone's in a rush, sprinting to get somewhere, and there's a palpable sense of nervous energy in the air. It's easy to get burned out from this kind of chaos, and the stress can even lead to mental health issues.
Moscow5. Social inequality. The massive gap between the wealthy who get to give interviews about their desired salaries and the international students who are struggling to make ends meet on a mere $10,000 a month. In some places, it's gotten to a boiling point: arguments between locals and newcomers, locals and migrants, different nationalities, and even everyday people. And let's not forget, Moscow has always been a hotbed of politics.
P.S if you're reading this as a student moving to Moscow or their parents, you're not dreaming if you think you can live in a dorm on a shoestring budget and expect your kid to soar. That's a myth that living in poverty will motivate you to work harder and achieve success. Only a tiny fraction of people are capable of that; most people's brains adapt to poverty and they'll just learn to cope with it for years to come.
MoscowIf you're still watching TikTok videos from Patrakov or Rilsa or following rich girls with Maybachs, I'd advise you to stop – you're making money off them and putting pressure on the people who can't afford it.
MoscowAdvice for those who want to visit as a TOURIST. What's worth seeing? My recommendations!
Moscow is a great choice for tourism. If you don't have any restrictions, I'd recommend coming for 6-8 days, which is long enough to explore the main attractions, popular spots, and more at a decent pace.
MoscowIf you're choosing where to stay and don't want to break the bank like I did over Paris, go for a well-known hotel like Azimut. Sure, it's pricier, but you'll be guaranteed a smooth experience.
Despite the higher prices, you can still eat well here for around 1,000 rubles a day – just be prepared to cook for yourself. And if you prefer restaurants and cafes, you'll need to budget around 4,500 rubles per person for daily meals.
MoscowYou can visit any time of year, depending on your preferences – whether you like the heat, cold, snow, or peaceful summer days. Expect higher demand during holidays and New Year's.
Now, here are my top 10 recommendations for places to visit, straight from a local's mouth – nothing too secret here.
1. The Kremlin and Zaryadye Park;
2. VDNKh and the nearby Botanical Garden;
3. Dream Island, which I wrote about;
4. Kolomenskoye Park, perfect for relaxation;
5. Ostankino Tower;
6. Moscow City complex;
7. Poklonnaya Hill;
8. The Budyonnovskaya metro branch;
9. Patriki – a great spot to experience the contrast;
10. Sokolniki Park.
MoscowI was expecting a solid list, but I mostly stuck to public spaces and avoided small spots.
When walking around the city, don't even think about trying to take a photo with the pigeons, and don't waste your money on street artists and helpers – it's a scam.
MoscowAs for tourists, there's not much to note here, really. The usual warnings apply, and safety-wise, Moscow is doing okay, but be mindful of pickpockets on the markets.
MoscowSpeaking of the Belyayevo line, I mentioned it for a reason – you can actually see flowers on the windowsills of neighboring apartments from the train window. Honestly, I feel a bit sorry for those who live there.
MoscowAdvice for those who want to move to Moscow for permanent residence.
Warning: what I'm about to say might not be pleasant, and my opinion might not align with yours. I promised to be honest.
First of all, if you don't have a stable career, a monthly income of less than $1000, and some savings, you're likely to end up broke and disappointed in Moscow. Based on my experience as a landlord and my professional obligations, I believe that people who are struggling back home will only end up worse off in the capital.
MoscowLet's face it, $20,000 a month isn't a reality here, and honestly, I'd settle for 75-80% of that for most people.
You won't find cheap housing, and working yourself to the bone in a communal apartment or hostel will only lead to a bleak outcome. Is that really what you want? I'd much rather be living comfortably in my own apartment in the provinces, at least for a couple of years, to focus on saving up.
MoscowBut if you've got the means, some savings, or even a job offer from a company, that's a different story.
If you're planning to make the move, consider that buying a place in New Moscow might mean a long commute to the 'original' Moscow.
MoscowSecondly, about mortgages. They're currently out of reach, and I wouldn't count on getting one in the next two years. It's worth noting that most high-rise buildings are constructed with a quick sale in mind, so you can expect poor soundproofing, issues with utilities, and a hefty price tag for utilities. And if you do decide to move into an apartment, be prepared for a surprise - it's not considered actual housing)
MoscowEven if you've decided to take the plunge and get a family mortgage with a decent income, take your time choosing your home. It's better to live in a new place as a rental for a month first. I've seen plenty of situations where people are lining up on the outskirts of Moscow, waiting for a bus to their 'residential complex'. These folks are commuting from the MKAD (but with Moscow registration) into the city, spending up to 5 hours a day on the road. It's not fiction – I have friends who used to wait in line for an hour, then spend another 2 hours getting to Moscow. Why put yourself through that hell? It's a recipe for disaster.
MoscowI'm not saying you shouldn't move to Moscow – I think everyone deserves a good life and good health. What I'm seeing is a catastrophe, not a way of life.
MoscowJust be sure to think outside the box and use your critical thinking. See a landfill or an airport on the map? Don't get stuck on the idea of a concrete high-rise and condemn yourself to 30 years of headaches. It's not a guarantee that the cardboard apartment will even last that long. You might want to consider a secondary market property, say a house from the 1990s or 2000s, they're fewer and far between, but they'll likely stand the test of time and you can live in them, rather than listening to your neighbors.
MoscowThe Third Point: Social Life. If you don't have permanent registration here, you'll face problems right away: it's tough to get your kid into daycare or school, and attaching to a polyclinic is a challenge too. In the first months after any relocation, you'll inevitably get some minor health issues, and some household stuff will start draining your family budget. That's what relocation is like, no sugarcoating, from my perspective. If you live in a high-rise in the middle of nowhere, the school will be an hour or more away from you.
MoscowIt's also not ideal to be a DIY disaster. You need to have a basic toolkit at home and a brain that can at least turn screws and bolts without breaking them, or you'll be paying Ashot from Avito 20,000 GEL per screw replacement.
MoscowAs for entertainment and relaxation, you can breathe a sigh of relief – there are plenty of spots to walk and unwind, and adaptation will be relatively smooth in most cases.
MoscowThe Fourth Point: Attitude. I'm putting my hand on my heart and saying that discrimination is present, but not too much, not too little – it's there. Older folks might start reading moral lessons, and in the residential chat, someone will inevitably bring up the topic of "newcomers".
MoscowIf you're a law-abiding, honest person, I'd rate the chance of encountering hostility as very low. I was also scared that when I arrived in Georgia, they'd lock me up, but in reality, nobody really cares about you).
MoscowLet's take a step back from the heat of the moment and take a look at those two photos above. The difference between them is exactly 20 years. As you can see, the grass is green again, just like the sky.
MoscowAnd number five. Never burn bridges with your hometown, because you never know what might happen: you might not like the city, your career might not take off, or you might go broke. And there's nothing scarier than being a nobody in a big city where you can't even afford a mortgage and the bank has already sold off the collateral.
Moscow
live_helpFeatured FAQ
What's the best way to get around Moscow?
The metro system is the best way to get around Moscow, with 12 lines that cover the entire city. You can also use buses and taxis, but be aware that traffic can be a nightmare.
What's the cost of living in Moscow like?
The cost of living in Moscow is high, with expensive housing and transportation options. However, there are ways to save money, such as sharing an apartment with friends or using public transportation.
What's the food like in Moscow?
Moscow has a great selection of food, with everything from traditional Russian cuisine to modern fusion restaurants. You can also find plenty of international options, including Chinese, Indian, and Italian food.
What's the nightlife like in Moscow?
Moscow has a thriving nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. However, be aware that the crowds can be overwhelming, especially on weekends.
What's the shopping like in Moscow?
Moscow has a great selection of shopping options, from high-end boutiques to affordable markets. You can also find plenty of international brands, including American and European designer labels.
What's the weather like in Moscow?
Moscow has a continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. The winters can be very cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while the summers are generally mild and pleasant.
What's the best time to visit Moscow?
The best time to visit Moscow is in the spring or summer, when the weather is mild and the city is in full bloom. However, if you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider visiting in the fall or winter, when prices are lower and the crowds are smaller.
What's the best way to learn Russian in Moscow?
There are plenty of ways to learn Russian in Moscow, including language schools, tutors, and online courses. You can also practice your language skills by speaking with locals and using language exchange apps.
How do I navigate the metro system in Moscow?
The metro system in Moscow is relatively easy to navigate, with clear signs and maps available in English. You can also use a metro map app on your phone to help you get around.
check_circlePros
- •The metro system is incredibly efficient and easy to navigate, with 12 lines that cover the entire city.
- •Moscow has a rich history and culture, with plenty of museums, galleries, and historical landmarks to explore.
- •The city has a thriving food scene, with everything from traditional Russian cuisine to modern fusion restaurants.
- •The people are friendly and welcoming, despite the crowds and chaos.
- •The city has a great selection of parks and green spaces, perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle.
- •Moscow has a well-developed infrastructure, with plenty of amenities and services available.
- •The city has a great selection of shopping options, from high-end boutiques to affordable markets.
- •Moscow has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from.
cancelCons
- •The traffic in Moscow is notorious, with long lines of cars and buses causing congestion on the roads.
- •The city can be very crowded, especially during rush hour, which can be overwhelming for some people.
- •The cost of living in Moscow is high, with expensive housing and transportation options.
- •The city has a lot of pollution, which can be a problem for people with respiratory issues.
- •The winters in Moscow can be very cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing.
- •The city has a lot of corruption, which can be frustrating for foreigners trying to navigate the system.
