Public transportation in Russia: trains, buses, and taxis

From the iconic Trans-Siberian Railway to the swift marshrutkas, Russia offers a variety of public transportation options to take you wherever you need to go.

How to Get Around Russia

By Train

Russia's extensive and affordable train network includes the Sapsan bullet train, connecting Moscow and St. Petersburg in under 4 hours, and suburban electric trains (electrichkas) to nearby towns.
Long-distance trains offer sleeping berths, though they can be slow.

By Air

Easy to fly between Moscow and major cities, though smaller towns may require connecting flights.
Major airlines: Aeroflot, S7, and Pobeda.

By Boat

River cruises are popular, especially between Moscow and St. Petersburg or along the Volga.
Hydrofoils available for scenic routes like from St. Petersburg to Peterhof.

By Bus

Daily services in major cities, less frequent in remote areas.
Comfortable in big cities, but old buses in rural regions.
Timetables and tickets often not available online.

Public Transport

Buses, trolleybuses, and trams run efficiently in most cities.
Metro systems in major cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg are the most efficient way to travel.

Car Rental

Available through companies like Sixt, Avis, or local agencies.
Hiring a car with a driver is ideal for first-time visitors.

Taxi

Uber Russia and Yandex are the most popular apps.
Avoid illegal taxis at airports and negotiate prices in smaller towns.

Hitchhiking

Not recommended for first-time visitors due to language barriers and potential costs.

Route Tracking Apps in Russia

City Mapper -Available for Moscow and Saint Petersburg, Citymapper provides routes combining metro, buses, trams, trains, and minibuses. It’s accessible via browser, Android, and iOS.

Google Maps -A globally popular navigation app that works efficiently across Russia, available on iOS, Android, and web browsers.

Yandex Maps -Russia’s leading search engine also offers Yandex Maps for public transport navigation.

Russian Railways (RZD for Passengers) -A must-have for train travelers, this app allows itinerary searches and ticket purchases for Android and iOS.

Public Transportation Apps in Russia

Yandex Taxi -Yandex Taxi operates in over 300 cities, offering a variety of ride options, including Economy, Comfort, Business, Kids, and Minivan. The "Kids" option is especially useful for families, as child safety seats are required by law in Russia.

Yandex Metro -Yandex Metro is essential for navigating Moscow and St. Petersburg’s metro systems, optimizing routes and suggesting the best car based on your stations. Use a “Troika” card, a reusable metro card that you can top up at stations or via the app, for easy travel through Russia’s metros.

Yandex Transport -Yandex Transport is the go-to app for navigating Moscow’s public transport, including buses, trolleybuses, and trams. It provides real-time locations, waiting times, and routes. You can use the same Troika card for buses and top it up via the app.

Gett Taxi -Gett is a popular taxi app in Moscow, also available in some European cities, the UK, Tel Aviv, and New York. It works similarly to Yandex Taxi, though users often switch between platforms

Uber Russia -Uber Russia is a popular ride-hailing app in major cities, offering options from budget to premium rides. The app has an English interface, making it easy for travelers. Always use the official app to avoid unlicensed taxis, especially at airports.