Moscow stay safe · Moscow travel safety advice
All Destinations | Europe | Asia | North America | Africa | South America | Oceania | Hotels
Moscow travel safety advice
Moscow travel safety advice
Moscow historically enjoyed a low crime rate. However, since the collapse of the Soviet Union, the crime rate throughout Russia skyrocketed, and has had a terrible reputation for crime since. However, the crime figures in Moscow are rapidly decreasing, but they still remain a concern.
Drunk people and the police are the most likely sources of problems. A lot of policemen are corrupt, and it is best to avoid them. While traveling in Moscow, as in the rest of Russia, you must always have your passport with you. If you look non-white, your papers may get checked more often than usual.
Usually, the police will demand to see your papers to check if you have been registered within three business days of your arrival into Moscow. Most policemen do not speak a word of English, but they will let you know if your papers are not in order and you must go with them to the police precinct. It may be possible to bribe the police with about 500 rubles to leave you alone. If you are reasonably sure your papers are in order, get out your mobile phone and call your embassy helpline. Most corrupt policemen will be frightened enough to let you go before you dial the number. Still, do not carry large sums of money as it may be taken by pickpockets or the police.
Non-white people should be especially vigilant since the number of violent attacks by skinheads is prevalent, and most minorities are likely to be stopped for document checks by the police.
Women should take caution walking alone late at night since they may receive unwanted attention from drunk men. Women should also stay clear of large companies of men in front of bars, restaurants, etc. It is best to walk with a friend if possible.
Also note that in winter months, streets in Moscow can get very slippery. Take a pair of grippy shoes or, even better, boots (to prevent twisted ankles) and a waterproof raincoat. Take care as ice patches are often hard to spot, even when they appear to have been cleared or melted. Wearing non-grippy shoes could result in injury.
The city's rapidly expanding economy has left traffic poorly handled, and accident rates are very high. Stay safe.
The Most Frequently Asked Travel Questions about Moscow
Where To Stay & Best Hotels in Moscow - updated Apr 2024
SAVE up to 75% on Last Minute deals! Search for discount Moscow hotels, motels, apartments, hostels, guest accommodations and vacation resorts. Book now and pay at the hotel. Instant email confirmation!
>>> SEARCH FOR DEALS <<<
WHERE TO TRAVEL NEXT IN 2020
Moscow Travel Guide from Wikitravel. Many thanks to all Wikitravel contributors. Text is available under Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0, images are available under various licenses, see each image for details.