Due to the ongoing military conflict in the Ukraine, along with sanctions and boycotts, it is not recommended to travel to Russia.
Moscow is an exciting destination known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.
How much does it cost to travel to Moscow?
A typical traveler spends $82 (₽6,815) per day on a trip to Moscow. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Moscow based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $27 (₽2,275) on meals
- $6.77 (₽566) on local transportation
- $89 (₽7,436) on hotels
A one-week trip to Moscow for two people costs, on average, $1,141 (₽95,410). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$571
₽47,705
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$1,141
₽95,410
-
One Month
Per person
$2,446
₽204,450
-
One Week
For a couple
$1,141
₽95,410
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$2,283
₽190,820
-
One Month
For a couple
$4,892
₽408,900
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Moscow cost?
A one week trip to Moscow usually costs around $571 (₽47,705) for one person and $1,141 (₽95,410) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Moscow on average costs around $1,141 (₽95,410) for one person and $2,283 (₽190,820) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Moscow will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Moscow on average costs around $2,446 (₽204,450) for one person and $4,892 (₽408,900) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Moscow expensive to visit?
In Moscow, budget travelers spend $35 (₽2,834) per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $85 (₽6,815) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $192 (₽15,424) per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Moscow.
Moscow is a smaller destination that charms visitors with a variety of travel styles, expenditure habits, and budgetary considerations. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.
Moscow can certainly rack up expenses, but there are strategies to minimize costs, including looking for discounts and coupons.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Moscow is a very affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 10% of cities in Europe for its affordability. Very few cities in the region are as affordable as Moscow.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Moscow Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Moscow?
The average Moscow trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Moscow travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Moscow cost?
Moscow on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$19
(₽1,570)
|
$44
(₽3,718)
|
$95
(₽7,929)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$3
(₽214)
|
$7
(₽566)
|
$19
(₽1,574)
|
|
Food2
|
$11
(₽925)
|
$27
(₽2,275)
|
$64
(₽5,377)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$7
(₽598)
|
$18
(₽1,471)
|
$42
(₽3,475)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$2-5
(₽140-420)
|
$4-13
(₽364-1,091)
|
$12-35
(₽970-2,911)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. While some think they can visit Moscow with minimal expenses, most people don't enjoy traveling that frugally. Consider what you prioritize on vacation. Do you prefer luxury hotels or budget stays? Hostels or hotels or vacation rentals? Are fun activities and dining out important to you? Your overall budget will depend on all of these questions.
What is a budget traveler, anyway?
You might consider yourself a budget traveler, but if you're not ready to give up some comforts, prepare to spend a lot more than the $35 per day that younger budget travelers manage.
Backpackers will usually stick to this shoestring budget by staying in hostel dorms, dining at the cheapest spots such as fast food places, using public transit, and mostly visiting free attractions.
Are You Considered an Average Traveler?
If you're traveling for leisure as a couple or family, you'll probably prefer a mid-range hotel, dine at well-known restaurants, and explore the major museums and attractions that charge entry fees. It's common for visitors to Moscow to seek out the major attractions, museums, and significant landmarks. Remember, most activities come with a cost. Therefore, it's reasonable to anticipate that your daily budget will be around $85 per person, per day.
Want to Experience a Luxurious Trip?
If you're looking for a higher-end vacation filled with high-end amenities and exceptional service, plan for a daily expense of approximately $192. Staying at nicer hotels, savoring meals at top-rated restaurants, splurging on lavish outings, and utilizing taxis or private drivers in the destination means you'll need a more luxurious budget. Many high-end visitors also prefer unique experiences such as Private Transfer from Tangkerang Labuai to Pekanbaru Airport - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Moscow
In Moscow, hotel prices can be quite surprising. Higher-end hotels offer more amenities and luxury, but come at a higher price tag, especially during the peak season. Off-season prices average around $, but in peak season, they can average around $. Prices generally range from $ to $, and hostels remain the cheaper option. Booking early or traveling during the low season can save you money, and you might find special deals along the way.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Moscow for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $89 (₽7,436). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $44 (₽3,718) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Moscow? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
If you plan your trip outside of and during the low or shoulder season, you'll find better accommodation rates and fewer tourists.
Transportation Budget in Moscow
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $6.77 (₽566) per person, per day, on local transportation in Moscow. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Moscow is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$6.77
₽566
You can travel around Moscow by metro, bus, trolleybus and tram. The central part of town can be explored on foot, but because the city is so big, you will be more efficient if you plan your day around the metro system. It is comprehensive and cheap to use. In general, it is about a three minute travel time between each station, although there are some exceptions to this rule.
There are both bus and trolleybus routes along most of the larger streets. Most of the buses and trolleybuses operate only during the daytime but there are several night routes as well. There is usually a bus stop roughly every 500 feet, or 150 meters. If you're outside of the city center then you may find yourself taking a bus to the metro, as the metro stops are farther apart. In general, there is no schedule for the buses and trolleybuses because they are heavily influenced by traffic, but they are frequent enough that this is usually not a problem.
Trams are much less common now that the metro and trolleybuses have become a major form of transportation. It is more common in some districts than others, but in general, most of the tram routes have been replaced by trolleybuses.
Another option for transport in Moscow is the Marshrutka. This is somewhere between private tranport and traditional buses. They usually follow the same routes as buses and are comparable to minibuses. In general, they're a little faster than buses although the drivers can be reckless.
Be sure your hotel has hassle-free parking if you're planning to drive.
Some of the standard hotel transfers and transport options include:
- Private Transfer from Tangkerang Labuai to Pekanbaru Airport (PKU) for $44 details
- Private Transfer from Tengkerang Barat to Pekanbaru Airport (PKU) for $44 details
- Private Transfer from Pekanbaru Airport (PKU) to Tengkerang Barat for $44 details
How much does it cost to go to Moscow? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Moscow will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Below, you'll find common transit prices in Moscow, gathered from real traveler experiences. These numbers offer a general sense of transportation expenses. It's important to note that your costs may vary depending on your transportation choice, with taxis and other hired vehicles usually costing significantly more than public transit.
Food Budget in Moscow
Food is a major attraction for travelers, so make sure you don't miss out on the local culinary delights.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Moscow can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Moscow is $27 (₽2,275) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$27
₽2,275
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Moscow is around $28 (₽2275) per person, with previous travelers spending from $11 to $67. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Moscow are as follows:
- Breakfast: $3 to $8
- Lunch: $4 to $11
- Dinner: $8 to $20
- Coffee: $2
- Fast Food or Street Food: $4
Eating out in Moscow can be very expensive, but there are options that are more affordable if you can figure out where the locals eat. You will pay a significant markup if you go to restaurants that are designed specifically for foreigners. You can find business lunch specials at many of the smaller restaurants within the Sadovoye ring. These deals are usually available between the hours of noon and 3:00 pm and usually include a cup of soup or appetizer, a small entree, bread, and a drink. There are also American chains around including McDonald's and TGI Fridays. They are reasonably priced but no better than you might expect back home. Other affordable dining options include food courts and smaller cafes.
Many hotels include breakfast in their price, while some add it on as an extra charge. The price and quality can vary depending on the hotel. Knowing ahead of time can help you decide if you need to spend even more money. Maybe it's worth your money for the delicious buffet at the hotel. Or, perhaps you should just go to a nearby bakery or cafe that's much cheaper.
Bring a reusable water bottle instead of purchasing drinks all the time. It's also a great way to help the environment.
If you're planning to take a tour, make sure you know which meals are included beforehand. You might be on the hook to pay for some of the food yourself which can add to your budget.
Listed below are typical food prices in Moscow, based on the actual spending of previous travelers. These figures provide an estimate of what you might expect to pay for meals. However, your personal expenses will depend on your dining preferences, the restaurants you choose, and what you decide to order.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Moscow
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Moscow typically cost an average of $18 (₽1,471) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$18
₽1,471
Moscow has countless sights for tourists, some of them world famous, and others more off the beaten path. Sights and attractions include Red Square, the Kremlin, Old Arbat Street, Bolshoi Theatre, Tretyakov Gallery, Pushkin Museum, Novodevichy Convent, the Church of the Ascension, Ostankino Tower, and the Institute of Russian Realist Art. For even more ideas and places to see, check out this article about essential places to visit in Moscow.
There are many different activities you can enjoy around Moscow. There are two circuses, the Nikulin circus and the new circus near the University. Many visitors also enjoy the Obraztsov Puppet Theatre, the Novaya Opera and the Moscow Ballet. Also try and visit a Russian bathhouse which is an interesting experience. Russian cooking classes can also be fun, as is a visit to the Kva-Kva Water Park.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Moscow. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Custom Private Tour in Palembang with English Speaking Driver for $97 details
- 2-Hour Private Guided Walking Tour in Bengkulu for $157 details
Listed below are some typical prices for attractions, activities, and entry fees in Moscow, sourced from actual travelers. These costs give you an idea of how much you might spend. However, your personal expenses will depend on the activities you choose, the museums or landmarks you visit, and how frequently you opt for free or low-cost options.
-
Theater Tickets
₽1,150
-
Kremlin Entry (2)
₽1,000
Nightlife Budget in Moscow
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $8.70 (₽727) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Moscow per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$8.70
₽727
While nightlife can be a blast, skipping a few rounds can significantly lower your travel expenses.
Travel cost data last updated: Aug 13, 2025
Budgeting and Travel Tips for Moscow
- Taking it easy while traveling can help you save some cash, letting you appreciate the area's beauty without the stress. If you rush through your days with nonstop activities, you'll end up spending more. Slowing down often leads to a more enjoyable trip and less money spent.
Budgeting Challenges
- There aren't many public transportation options in Moscow. Renting a car or organizing a form of transport, like a tour, might be necessary. Just know that this could stretch your budget in other places.
- There aren't many hostels in Moscow, so if you're hoping for a budget dorm, it's best to rethink your plans. Instead, look for inexpensive hotels or an apartment rental.
Traveling in Moscow
Moscow
Moscow is the capital of Russia and is notable for its important role in history. It's a very sprawling city with many museums and fascinating buildings. Ten percent of Russia's population lives in this capital city and it's a financial and political center for the country. The Moskva River weaves its way through the city and you will find most of the city's sights and attractions on the northern side of the river.
The city's geography is created by the many "Ring Roads" that circle the city at various distances out. The Red Square and the Kremlin are at the very center and the ring that is closest in is the Boulevard Ring, or Bulvarnoye Koltso. The next ring road is the Garden Ring, or Sadovoe Koltso and the third ring is the most recent, and rarely used by tourists.
Moscow has a humid continental climate that has long and cold winters. Winters usually start in mid November and continue through the end of March. Summers are warm although temperatures can vary widely. Winter temperatures can drop to -25 degrees Celsius. During the warmer summer months temperatures hover around a comfortable 25 degrees Celsius.
Neighborhoods & Around
Moscow is divided into six districts that are referred to as okrugs. The "ring roads" create the basis for the neighborhood network with the Kremlin at the center. Most of the historical buildings and interesting sights can be found within the Boulevard Ring. There are many museums within the Garden Ring and the hotels, restaurants and shopping areas are spread throughout the entire city. The area that stretches from the Kremlin to the Boulevard Ring is called the "Bely Gorod" or "White Town" because of its white stone walls. The area from the Boulevard to the Garden Rings is called "Zemlyanoi Gorod" or "Earth Town". The Kremlin has many cathedrals, palaces, a concert and congress hall and, famously, the seat of presidential power. The area spreads over one and a half miles and is surrounded by red brick walls. On the eastern side is Red Square.
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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
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1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.