Getting Started on the Moscow Metro
The Moscow Metro is the fastest and most affordable way to get around Moscow. The network covers 250 stations across 15 lines and 460 km of track, connecting the city's key neighbourhoods, transport hubs, and attractions. Around ~9.0 million journeys are made every day.
The Moscow Metro is one of the world's most beautiful and historically significant metro systems. Opened on 15 May 1935, it operates 250 stations across 15 lines and 460 km of track, making it one of the longest metro networks in the world.
How to Pay
The best way to pay is with the Troika Card — faster boarding, no queue at the machine, and usually a discount on fares. How to use the Troika card on the Moscow Metro — buying, loading, fares, Face Pay, and tourist tips for 2026.
All payment options: Troika card (rechargeable) · Face Pay (biometric) · Contactless bank card · Single-trip paper ticket · QR code ticket (Mosmetro app).
💡 The Troika card (₽50 deposit, refundable) gives the flat ₽57 fare per trip — far cheaper than single-trip paper tickets (₽75). The card also works on all MCC, MCD, trams, buses, and the monorail.
Peak hours: Flat fare regardless of time — ₽57 per trip at any hour on all metro lines.
Getting from the Airport to Moscow
Aeroexpress from Sheremetyevo to Belorussky station in 35 minutes, then metro into the city — complete guide with fares, timings, and MCD alternative. Journey time: ~35 min Aeroexpress to Belorusskaya, then metro to centre. Estimated fare: ₽650 Aeroexpress + ₽57 metro (total ~₽707).
Full airport connection guide →
Key Stations
These are the most important and useful stations on the Moscow Metro for visitors:
Lines Overview
Essential Tips for Visitors
- Always tap out — some European metros require you to tap your card at exit as well as entry. Failing to do so results in a maximum fare charge.
- Validate your ticket — in cities like Paris and Madrid, ticket validation at the barrier is mandatory. Keep your ticket until you exit.
- Travel off-peak — Flat fare regardless of time — ₽57 per trip at any hour on all metro lines. Fares are lower off-peak and trains are less crowded.
- Operating hours — hours vary by city and day. Most European metros run reduced hours on Sundays. Check the operator app or website.
- Multi-trip cards save money — Troika Card Guide is cheaper than buying single tickets. Recommended for any visit of 2+ days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Troika card?
The Troika card (₽50 deposit, refundable) is Moscow's standard rechargeable contactless transit card. Load money and pay ₽57 per metro trip. It works on all metro lines, Moscow Central Circle (MCC), Central Diameters (MCD), buses, trams, and the monorail. Buy at any metro ticket window or machine.
What is Face Pay on the Moscow Metro?
Moscow Metro launched Face Pay in 2021 — the world's first metro-wide biometric payment. Register your face via the Mosmetro app, link a Troika or bank card, and simply look at the camera to enter. The ₽57 Troika fare applies. Completely optional; standard cards work as usual.
How do I get from Sheremetyevo Airport to Moscow?
Take the Aeroexpress train from Sheremetyevo Terminal D to Belorussky station — 35 minutes, ₽650. From Belorusskaya station connect to Lines 2 or 5. Alternatively, the MCD (Moscow Central Diameters) D1 now connects SVO to the city with metro interchange at Savelyovsky station.
Which stations are the most beautiful?
Komsomolskaya (Line 5) — baroque chandeliers and mosaics; Kievskaya — Soviet murals; Novoslobodskaya — stained glass panels; Mayakovskaya — Stalin-era Art Deco with dome mosaics; Ploschad Revolyutsii — 76 bronze sculptures. The entire Line 5 (Circle) is a showcase of Soviet architecture.
Does the Moscow Metro run all night?
No — Moscow Metro closes around 01:00 and reopens around 05:30. Night buses (N-routes) cover key corridors overnight. The MCC (Line 14) runs until slightly later. There is no 24-hour service on the metro itself.
Is the Moscow Metro tourist-friendly in 2026?
Station signs are in Cyrillic and Latin (transliterated) script. Metro maps in English are available at information booths. The Mosmetro app has an English interface with route planner. Ticket machines have an English option.
What is the Big Circle Line (BKL)?
Line 11, the Big Circle Line (Bolshaya Koltsevaya Liniya), completed in 2023. With 31 stations and 70 km, it's the world's longest circular metro line. It connects all radial lines without needing to go through the centre — significantly reducing overcrowding and journey times across the city.
Can I use contactless bank cards on the Moscow Metro?
Yes — Mir, Visa, and Mastercard contactless bank cards work at metro turnstiles. Tap your card to pay ₽57. Note that in 2026 some foreign Visa/Mastercard may have limited functionality in Russia depending on issuer. Troika card is the most reliable option for visitors.
Fare Guide
See the full Moscow Metro ticket prices guide for all fares, the Troika Card Guide discount, and payment options.
Source: Moscow Metropolitan (Moskovsky Metropoliten) and Wikipedia. Information is for general guidance — verify with the operator before travel.