pef travel

• Know Your Union
• Membership Benefits
• Stay in Touch
• Concur Expense Management
• Member Resources
• PEF Member Orientation
• Union Elections
• Get to Know Your Union
• Department Directors
• Union Leadership
• Executive Board & Council Leaders
• Executive Board Minutes
• Grievance and Other Forms
• PEF Constitution
• PEF Policy Manual
• PEF Code of Ethics
• PEF Election Policies
• PEF Committees
• PEF Contract Committees
• Labor Management
• Civil Service Violation Complaint Form
• CSE/R Introduction
• CSE/R Frequently Asked Questions
• Reduction in Workforce
• Educational Sessions
• Communications
• Division Documents
• Steward Election Procedures
• Division Finance
• PEF Division Constitutions
• Field Services
• Agency Level (Statewide) Committee Chairs
• Available Grants
• COVID-19: Information for PEF Members & Staff
• Health & Safety Committees and Minutes
• Health & Safety Conference
• Health & Safety Topics
• Health & Safety Training Hub
• Fund Our Future
• Special Events
• Online Training
• PEF Offered Training
• PEF Scholarships
• Public Service Workshops Program
• Professional Development programs now available
• Training Specialists
• Communicator
• Press Releases
• Scholarships
• Health Benefits
• Search Search Search

PEF Membership Benefits Program Family Days Tickets are Available for Sale!

/ Volume 41. No. 4 / PEF Membership Benefits Program Family Days Tickets are Available for Sale!

May 18, 2023 — Don’t miss out on the opportunity to take your family to a Six Flags theme park this summer at tremendous savings!  

The popular, and very well attended PEF MBP Family Day events are back and tickets are going fast! This year’s events take place July 8 at Six Flags Great Adventure & Safari in Jackson, N.J., August 12 at Six Flags Darien Lake in Darien Center, N.Y., and for the first time ever, the Six Flags Great Escape event in Queensbury, N.Y., will be a Halloween event on October 21.  

  “After several years of very successful Family Days in the summer months, the MBP Trustees decided to try something different with Fright Fest at Great Escape,” said PEF Membership Benefits Marketing Contract Specialist Annmarie Bikowicz.    

So, what can you expect at each event? Family fun, day long smiles, all the food you can eat at the free buffet lunch, vendor tables with information on PEF MBP benefits, special giveaways, raffle prize opportunities for every PEF member and retiree, and much more! The ticket price for the two summer events at Six Flags Great Adventure and Darien Lake include park and water park admission, a buffet lunch, and parking. You have access to all the rides and water fun from the time each park opens until closing.  

For the Six Flags Great Escape event in October, enjoy the rides and attractions, trick- or-treating for the kids, discounted tickets for the haunted houses, all you can eat at the free buffet lunch, PEF MBP vendor tables, benefit information, giveaways, and raffle prizes as well. Come in costume and take part in the Fright Fest fun. Although it will be a Halloween-themed day, there will not be anything particularly “scary” until 4 p.m., when the “haunted” attractions begin. “It is suggested that families with young children leave the park by 4 p.m.,” said Bikowicz.     

Additional discounts are available at each event, including special pricing on souvenir water bottles that will provide you with free soda and water refills throughout the park for the entire day, and a discounted season pass upgrade promotion only available the day of the event.  

Family Day tickets are just $30 and children under 2 years of age are free. If you visit the parks on your own any day during peak summer months, you will find that a daily admission ticket can be as high as $44.99 (and this does not include entrance into Hurricane Harbor at Great Adventure as that is a separate park), general admission parking is as much as $40, and a single meal deal starts at $21 per person.  

Whether you’re seeking summer thrills or Halloween chills, PEF MBP’s Family Day events supply it all, and at great savings for you and your family.  

Click here to get your tickets now.   Watch this video to learn more about Family Fun Days.

For more information on all PEF MBP offerings, visit www.pefmbp.org.   

• Division of Finance and Administration
• UB Directory
• Administrative Services >
• Human Resources >
• My Benefits >
• State Benefits By Unit >
• PEF — NY State Public Employees Federation

PEF Benefits

Your employment-related benefits are negotiated by New York state and your bargaining unit, PEF (NY State Public Employees Federation). These are your benefits if both these are true:

• Your affiliation is with the state
• Your negotiating unit is 05

Return to My Benefits .

Medical, Dental and Vision

Medical insurance eligibility.

The University at Buffalo offers a variety of medical insurance options to suit your needs.

As part of your benefits package, you may be eligible for medical insurance. Listed below are eligibility criteria. If you are unsure if you meet this criteria, Human Resources is available to guide you.

Contact the Benefits Team

The State Benefit Services Team is available to answer your questions. Use our contact information below to access all team members for the fastest response .

UB HR Benefits

State Benefit Services

Phone: 716-645-7777

Email: [email protected]

Department Leadership

Contact our department leaders for additional assistance.

Lissa Jasinowski

Assistant Director

Benefits and Work Life Balance

Phone: (716) 645-4488

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 716-645-5357

Email: [email protected]

Full Time Appointments

• Appointment must be for at least six complete biweekly pay periods
• Must be paid salaried or hourly

Part Time Appointments

• FTE must be equal to or greater than .50

Dependent Eligibility for Medical Insurance

You may be able to add dependent(s) to your medical insurance for family coverage. Listed below is the documentation that will be required to enroll your dependent(s). If you are unable to provide one of the required documents, contact Human Resources to discuss possible alternatives.

Multiple documents may be used for proof of joint financial obligation including a joint tax return, mortgage or lease agreement, bill or bank account. Financial information may be blacked out.

New Employees

Welcome to the University at Buffalo! Benefit Services (State) will contact you with initial benefit enrollment information. Review enrollment instructions and deadlines included in the benefit information you receive carefully. Failure to enroll timely may result in an extended waiting period for coverage to begin.

Enrollment in medical insurance is voluntary. You will not be automatically enrolled in a plan. Your waiting period for coverage to begin will be based on your appointment with the University.

Communications from Benefit Services (State) will be sent to your UB email (@buffalo.edu). Set up your email to receive important benefit information.

• Review the UB Staff Technology Guide

NYSHIP Health Insurance Resources

• Review Benefit Summary Information
• NYSHIP Health Insurance Choices (PDF)
• Generate a Plan Comparison
• NYSHIP Health Insurance Rates (PDF)
• Pre-Tax Contributions and Qualifying Events

Transferring Employees

Contact Benefit Services (State) for guidance if you are transferring from another SUNY Institution and/or New York State Agency or changing negotiating units.

Current Employees

Following your initial eligibility for health insurance, you may want to enroll in a NYSHIP plan, cancel coverage or make changes to your current plan. Allowable options will be based on your request and whether you are experiencing a qualifying event. Certain changes are not allowable outside of the annual option transfer period. Contact Benefit Services (State) as soon as possible as deadlines may apply.

Benefit Services for State must receive your completed paperwork within 30 days of a NYSHIP qualifying event.

NYSHIP Enrollment and Plan Changes

• Review NYSHIP Enrollment, Qualifying Event and Plan Change Information (PDF)

Biweekly Cost

The opt-out program.

If you have coverage under another employer-sponsored health insurance program, you may be eligible for an incentive payment if you opt-out of your (New York State Health Insurance Program) NYSHIP coverage.

The annual incentive payment is $1,000 for opting out of individual coverage or $3,000 for opting out of family coverage. The payment is considered taxable income and prorated and reimbursed in your biweekly paycheck throughout the year.

Eligibility

• You must be covered under an employer-sponsored group health insurance plan through other employment of your own or a plan that your spouse, domestic partner or parent has as the result of his or her employment.
• The other coverage may not allow you to opt out if it is NYSHIP coverage provided through employment with another state employer.
• NYSHIP coverage through another employer, such as a municipality, school district or public benefit corporation, qualifies as other coverage.
• UUP (United University Professions)
• GSEU (Graduate Student Employees Union)
• You may be eligible to enroll when you are newly eligible for NYSHIP coverage. Human Resources can assist with enrollment during your benefits orientation.
• CSEA  - Civil Service Employees Association: 42 calendar days from your appointment begin date
• M/C Classified : 56 calendar days from your appointment begin date
• M/C Professional : 56 calendar days from your appointment begin date
• NYSCOPBA  - NY State Correctional Officers and Police Benevolent Associaiton, Inc.: 56 calendar days from your appointment begin date
• PBANYS  - Police Benevolent Association of NY State, Inc.:  56 calendar days from your appointment begin date
• PEF  - NY State Public Employees Federation:  56 calendar days from your appointment begin date
• You may be eligible to enroll during the Option Transfer period if you were enrolled in NYSHIP by April 1 of the prior plan year and remained enrolled through the end of that plan year.

Each year New York state employees can change medical plans for the next calendar year. The Option Transfer Period occurs over a specific period of time.

Except under very limited circumstances, this is the only time an employee is allowed to change plans.

Enrollment in the opt-out program does not continue automatically from year to year. You must enroll during each Option Transfer period and attest to having other coverage for the coming plan year.

Managing My Medical Insurance

Once enrolled, you may be able to make changes to your medical insurance. Listed below are events that allow you to make changes to your plan.

All required forms and documentation must be received in Human Resources by the listed deadline in order for the change to be made. Submit all forms and documentation to our Secure UB Box Folder: 

Adding Dependents

Look up eligibility requirements for dependents, i got married, i want to add a domestic partner, i had a child, my dependent lost his or her coverage, i want to add a dependent.

If you want to add a dependent and one of the above events does not apply, you may still make this change but there will be a waiting period for benefits for your dependent. In addition, your deductions for health insurance may be after-tax. You may change the after-tax deduction during the option transfer period to take effect beginning in January of the next year.

Near the end of every year, New York state employees can change medical plans for the next calendar year. This Option Transfer Period lasts a specific period of time and is the only time you are allowed to change plans without a qualifying life event.

Removing Dependents

I got legally separated or divorced, my dependent enrolled in other coverage, i want to remove my domestic partner, i want to remove a dependent, i want to change from family to individual coverage.

If you want to change from family to individual coverage and one of the above events does not apply, you cannot change your health insurance. You may change during the option transfer period to take effect beginning in January of the next year.

I Will Maintain Family Coverage

Cancelling coverage, i enrolled in other coverage, i am on a leave without pay, i want to cancel my coverage.

If you want to cancel your coverage and one of the above events does not apply, you cannot change your health insurance. You may change during the option transfer period to take effect beginning in January of the next year. 

I Want to Participate in the Opt-Out Program

You may be eligible to enroll in the opt-out program during the option transfer period to take effect beginning in January of the next year. Please refer to the eligibility guidelines in the option transfer information for the upcoming year. UUP employees are not currently eligible to particiapte in the Opt-out program.

Coverage Termination

Medical insurance coverage ends two full payperiods following your appointment end date.

The Department of Civil Service, Employee Benefits Division, will send information regarding COBRA to your home address after your coverage has terminated. COBRA is a federal law that allows the voluntary continuation of the same coverage at full cost.

Contact the Employee Benefits Division at 800-833-4344 with questions regarding COBRA continuation of coverage.

Monthly COBRA Rates

• COBRA NYSHIP Health Insurance Rates (PDF)
• View the COBRA Administrator Contact Information (PDF)

Dental and Vision Coverage

Dental and vision coverage is provided through the state of New York. Coverage takes effect following a 56 calendar day waiting period. There is no cost for enrollment.

• Overview of Dental Plan
• Choose an Authorized Dental Provider

Welcome to MyGovTrip!

FedTravel has permanently moved to MyGovTrip.Com .

Please be sure to update your bookmark.

GOVERNMENT TRAVEL PLANNING SIMPLIFIED!!

Welcome to mygovtrip, the premier travel-planning website for government and military travelers, welcome to mygovtrip, the premier travel-planning website for government and military travelers.

MyGovTrip offers travelers the most accurate and up-to-date information for both official and leisure travel. Find commercial flight schedules as well as all Government contract schedules and fares with the 8 airlines in the program, Per Diems, hotels, car rentals and more.

Easy access - no passwords or registrations required!

Is It Safe in Moscow?

Stanislav Solntsev / Getty Images

When you visit Moscow , Russia, you’re seeing one of the world’s largest, and most expensive, capital cities . While there is a history of violent crime against foreign journalists and aid personnel in Russia, a trip to Moscow is usually safe for mainstream travelers. Most tourists in Moscow only face potential issues with petty crime, though terrorism is also a concern. Visitors should stick to the principal tourist areas and abide by the local security advice.

Travel Advisories

• The U.S. Department of State urges travelers to avoid travel to Russia because of COVID-19 and to "exercise increased caution due to terrorism, harassment, and the arbitrary enforcement of local laws."  
• Anyone exploring more of Russia should avoid "The North Caucasus, including Chechnya and Mount Elbrus, due to terrorism, kidnapping,   and   risk of civil unrest." Also, travelers should stay away from "Crimea due to Russia’s occupation of the Ukrainian territory   and   abuses by its occupying authorities."  
• Canada states travelers should use a high degree of caution in Russia due to the threat of terrorism and crime.  

Is Moscow Dangerous?

The Moscow city center is typically safe. In general, the closer you are to the Kremlin , the better. Travelers mainly need to be aware of their surroundings and look out for petty crime. Be especially careful in tourist areas such as Arbat Street and crowded places like the Moscow Metro transit system. The suburbs are also generally fine, though it is advised to stay away from Maryino and Perovo districts.

Terrorism has occurred in the Moscow area, leading authorities to increase security measures. Be more careful at tourist and transportation hubs, places of worship, government buildings, schools, airports, crowds, open markets, and additional tourist sites.

Pickpockets and purse snatching happen often in Russia, perpetrated by groups of children and teenagers who distract tourists to get their wallets and credit cards. Beware of people asking you for help, who then trick you into their scheme. Don’t expect a backpack to be a safe bag bet; instead, invest in something that you can clutch close to your body or purchase a money belt . Always diversify, storing some money in a separate location so that if you are pickpocketed, you'll have cash elsewhere. Keep an eye out for thieves in public transportation, underground walkways, tourist spots, restaurants, hotel rooms and homes, restaurants, and markets.

Is Moscow Safe for Solo Travelers?

Large cities like Moscow in Russia are overall fairly safe if you are traveling alone, and the Moscow Metro public transit is a secure and easy way to get around. But it is still a good idea to follow basic precautions as in any destination. Avoid exploring alone at night, especially in bad areas. You may want to learn some basic Russian phrases or bring a dictionary, as many locals don't speak English. However, in case you need any help, there are tourist police that speak English. Also, exploring with other trusted travelers and locals or on professional tours is often a good way to feel safe.

Is Moscow Safe for Female Travelers?

Catcalling and street harassment are infrequent in Moscow and the rest of Russia and females traveling alone don't usually have problems. There are plenty of police officers on the streets as well. Still, it serves to stick to Moscow's well-lit, public areas, avoid solo night walks, and use your instincts. Women frequenting bars may take receive some friendly attention. Females can wear whatever they want, but those entering Orthodox churches will be required to cover up. Though women in Russia are independent, domestic violence and other inequality issues take place regularly.

Safety Tips for LGBTQ+ Travelers

Russia is not known as a gay-friendly country. However, Moscow is one of the more welcoming cities with a blooming LGBTQ+ community and many friendly restaurants, bars, clubs, and other venues. Hate crimes in Russia have increased since the 2013 anti-gay propaganda law. Openly LGBTQ+ tourists in this conservative country may experience homophobic remarks, discrimination, or even violence, especially if traveling with a partner. Also, while women hold hands or hug publicly—whether romantically involved or not—men should avoid public displays of affection to prevent being insulted or other issues.

Safety Tips for BIPOC Travelers

Moscow  and other big cities in Russia have sizable populations of various cultures, so discrimination against BIPOC travelers is rarer than in other parts of the country where it can become dangerous. Some people living in Russia who are Black, Asian, Jewish, and from other backgrounds have experienced racial discrimination and violence. Tourists won't usually experience overt racism but may be the recipients of some stares. If anyone should bother you, be polite and resist being taunted into physically defending yourself.

Safety Tips for Travelers

Travelers should consider the following general tips when visiting:

• It's best not to drink the tap water. If you do, boil it before drinking, though showering is safe and the amount used to brush teeth is generally not harmful. Mineral water is widely drunk, especially at restaurants, and if you prefer not to have it carbonated ask for “ voda byez gaz” (water without gas).
• If you need emergency assistance in case of fire, terrorism, medical issues, or more, dial 112 in Russia for bilingual operators.
• Be judicious about taking photographs, especially of police or officials. This can potentially bring unwanted attention to yourself by members of law enforcement who won’t mind asking to see your passport. Also avoid snapping photos of official-looking buildings, such as embassies and government headquarters.
• Carry your passport in as secure a manner as possible. If you get stopped for any reason by the police, they can fine or arrest you if you don't have the document with you. Also, keep photocopies of your passport, the page on which your travel visa appears, and any other documents that relate to your stay in Russia.
• Use official taxis only and steer clear of illegal taxi companies, especially at night. Ask your hotel to call a reputable taxi company.

U.S. Department of State. " Russia Travel Advisory ." August 6, 2020.

Government of Canada. " Official Global Travel Advisories ." November 19, 2020.

Is It Safe in Peru?

Is It Safe in Guatemala?

Is It Safe in Rio de Janeiro?

Is It Safe in Barbados?

Is It Safe in Egypt?

Is It Safe in Sweden?

Is It Safe in Colombia?

Is It Safe in Jamaica?

Is It Safe in Germany?

Is It Safe in Iceland?

Is It Safe in Mexico?

Is It Safe in Amsterdam?

Is It Safe in Thailand?

2020 Travel Warnings for Countries in Africa

Is It Safe in Russia?

Is It Safe in Trujillo, Peru?

2018 Primetime Emmy & James Beard Award Winner

R&K Insider

Join our newsletter to get exclusives on where our correspondents travel, what they eat, where they stay. Free to sign up.

A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

Featured city guides.

• United Arab Emirates
• Switzerland
• The Netherlands
• Puerto Rico
• United States
• New Zealand
• ➨ Choose from World Map
• Budget Travel
• Family Travel
• Getting Around
• Visas & Passports
• Work with Us

Browsing Category

• Czech Republic
• Saint Martin
• Uncategorized

Moscow Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + More [2023]

· everything to know about visiting moscow, including the best things to do and how to get around. ·.

Moscow is Russia’s vibrant capital city, and it also happens to be the largest city in all of Europe. The city’s long and infamous history makes it one of the most unique places we have ever visited.

The architecture ranges from centuries-old palaces to uniform, gray concrete buildings. The people range from cold and private to warm and welcoming. Moscow is a city is strong juxtapositions, and we learned a lot during our time there.

This post will break down all you need to know about visiting Moscow, including the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more.

The Best Things to Do in Moscow

1. explore the red square.

The Red Square is the heart of Moscow. Most of the city’s top attractions can be found here, including just about everything on this list. The Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin’s Mausoleum are all located here, and the State Historical Museum and GUM are not far from here, either.

The Red Square is a common home for parades, protests, and seasonal celebrations. There are massive Christmas celebrations here, with food vendors and carnival rides set up in numbers.

2. Check Out the Ziferblat

The Ziferblat is a café in Moscow that is unlike any café we have ever been to. While most cafes charge you for your drinks and food, the Ziferblat charges you for your time.

Upon arrival, you are given a clock. When you leave, the barista calculates how much time you spent in the café and charges you accordingly. This concept was created to help visitors to be more intentional with their time, and the cafe itself is incredibly charming.

For a detailed look at everything you need to know before you visit, make sure you read my post about visiting the Ziferblat Cafe in Moscow .

3. Marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral

St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil’s Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style. The church is of the Russian Orthodox faith, and the inside is just as wondrous as the outside.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is located on the edge of the Red Square, making it incredibly convenient to visit. Entrance for non-worshippers costs 800 rubles, and tickets can be bought at the church

4. Explore the Kremlin

The Kremlin is the largest active fortress in Europe, and it is the site of most of Russia’s government affairs. In addition to government buildings, the Kremlin Complex is filled with courtyards, towers, and museums that are open to the public. If you have the time, you could spend a couple of days fully exploring all that there is to see in the Kremlin.

5. Walk Through Lenin’s Mausoleum

Vladimir Lenin is one of the most important figures in Russian history, and his body is located perfectly embalmed in a mausoleum in the Red Square. The Mausoleum is open to the public to visit, and as long as you are willing to go through a few security checks, it is easily one of the best things to do in Moscow. Its convenient location in the Red Square makes it a can’t miss attraction.

There is absolutely no photography allowed inside the Mausoleum. Do not test this rule.

6. Wander Along Arbat Street

The Arbat is a very popular street in Moscow that is lined with stores, cafes, and other touristy attractions. It is one of the oldest streets in the city, dating back to the 1400s. This street is both quaint and trendy, and there are many walking tours that introduce tourists to the neighborhood’s wonders and highlights.

7. Catch a Show at the Bolshoi Theatre

As a lover of the arts, it is hard to think of Moscow and not think of ballet. Russia has always been a top dog in the world of fine arts, and Bolshoi Theater is one of the best places to catch a performance. We were lucky enough to attend an Opera here, and it is a venue that you don’t want to miss out on if you enjoy opera, ballet, or orchestral performances.

8. Visit the State Historical Museum

The State Historical Museum is one of the most respected museums in Moscow. Despite its name, it is not really focused on the history of Russia as a nation. Rather, it contains a collection of artifacts from all throughout Russia’s history.

The museum’s collection is very broad in nature. It houses some items from indigenous tribes that used to occupy the region, pieces collected by the Romanov family, and more.

9. Wander Around GUM

GUM is an absolutely massive mall within walking distance of the Red Square. It isn’t just the size that draws visitors here; it’s the sense of luxury. The mall is so beautiful inside, much like the metro stations.

While visiting a mall might not sound like it belongs on a bucket list, this mall does. You will not want to miss out on visiting GUM while in Moscow.

10. Admire the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

While St. Basil’s Cathedral is the most iconic church in Moscow, it isn’t the only one. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is absolutely stunning, with massive golden domes. It is the tallest Orthodox church in the world, and it is the seat of the Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow.

It is located just about a mile from the Red Square, just south of the Kremlin Complex. You can walk to it from the Red Square in about 20 minutes.

How to Get to Moscow

Flying to moscow.

Moscow has three major international airports: Sheremetyevo (SVO) , Domodedovo (DMO) , and Vnukovo (VKO) . All three of them are directly connected to downtown Moscow by the Aeroexpress trains, which leave every 30 minutes throughout the day. By Aeroexpress train, you can expect to get to the city center in 25-45 minutes depending on the airport that you fly into.

Sheremetyevo is the biggest and busiest of the three airports, and it is the one you are most likely to fly into – especially if you are coming from outside of Europe or the Caucus region. We flew into Sheremetyevo on a direct flight from New York City.

I usually provide backup airport options, because flying right into the city isn’t always the cheapest way to get where you’re going. Unfortunately, when it comes to Moscow, don’t really have a choice other than to fly right into Moscow. It is a very remote city, and it is usually the cheapest place to fly into in Russia as a whole.

Since Sheremetyevo is so busy, you will probably find a great flight option anyway. I wrote in  my post about finding cheap flights  that using hub airports will lead to more affordable airfare, and the same logic applies here. Even though Russia’s national airline, Aeroflot, is no longer a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, Moscow is still a major hub connecting passengers from all over the world.

READ OUR CHEAT SHEET

Train or Bus to Moscow

Trains and buses are one of the most popular ways to get around Europe. However, they’re of very little use when you’re trying to get to Moscow.

Moscow is hundreds of miles from the nearest major cities. The only major European city that can even be reached within 8 hours on the ground is St. Petersburg, and even the Baltic capitals of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn are over 12 hours away.

If you want to get to Moscow, the best option is almost always to fly. While the train routes to Moscow are scenic, they simply take forever.

How to Get Around Moscow

METRO | TROLLEYS | TRAMS | BUSES

Moscow has one of the most memorable metro systems in the world. Its metro lines are very deep underground, and the stations are absolutely stunning. Each station has its own unique style, but all of them contain escalators that seem to go on forever.

The system was built in an effort to showcase the power of the Soviet Union and its bright future. The plans were a form of propaganda, but they resulted in what is still one of the most visually appealing subway systems on earth.

Moscow’s metro system isn’t just pretty. It is also very useful and accessible. The system has 17 lines that connect the city and its surrounding area.

But wait; there’s more!

The Moscow metro system is also incredibly affordable, with each ride costing less than a dollar. The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow, as it is almost impossible to beat the connection times and the low cost to ride.

Tickets can be bought at electronic, English-speaking kiosks in stations, or directly from ticket counters at certain larger stations. There are also day passes available, which are a very solid option if you plan on riding the metro several times per day.

The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow.

In addition to the metro system, Moscow also has a network of buses, trams, and trolleys. This system is nowhere near as convenient or well-connected as the metro, though, and is likely of little use to you during your trip. There is no Uber in Moscow, but a similar app named Yandex is available if you need a ride in a pinch.

How Many Days Do You Need in Moscow?

Moscow is the biggest city in all of Europe, and it is absolutely loaded with things to do. You could spend weeks in Moscow and still find new things to do. Of course, most travelers don’t have that kind of time to spend in one place!

I recommend spending no less than three full days in Moscow, and ideally closer to five or seven.

Moscow is very spread out, and it can take some time to get from one major point to another. There are also so many places that are nice to just sit back and relax, which is hard to do when you’re in a hurry trying to cram activities into just a few days.

If you only have a week to visit Russia, I’d advise spending all of the time in one city. If you decide to split your time between Moscow and St. Petersburg, I recommend not trying to squeeze in any day trips beyond those two cities.

When Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Moscow?

There are two different ways to approach this question. Personally, I think the best time to visit Moscow is around Christmas and New Year’s Day. While the weather will be absolutely freezing, Moscow is a surreal winter wonderland in December and January.

We were in Moscow right before Christmas. While it was very cold, you can always bundle up. Exploring the Christmas markets and pop-up ice skating rinks throughout Moscow is one of my favorite memories from anywhere I’ve traveled, and I dream of going back to do it again.

If you aren’t fond of the cold, Moscow is beautiful in the summer. It tends to get pretty cold in the shoulder seasons, so if you want warm weather, you should plan to visit in the summer. Moscow actually gets pretty warm in July and August, and there are a bunch of fantastic places to soak up the sun within the city.

The best time to visit Moscow is either around Christmas or from late May to August.

Is Moscow Safe to Visit?

While Moscow is a truly wonderful city, there’s no denying that visiting Russia comes with risks. As the country is run by an infamous communist dictator, concerns about visiting are valid. While we didn’t experience any sort of threat or negative treatment during our time in Moscow, we visited in a peaceful time.

In our experience, Russia doesn’t seem to detain normal Americans or Westerners to use as pawns. As a regular person, as long as you don’t commit any crimes, there is a slim chance you will run into any issues. However, Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

To make matters worse, Russia has a bad reputation for gang violence. While the Russian mafia has very little interest in normal Western tourists, they won’t hesitate to pick a fight with anyone who ventures into their sphere of influence. If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

Finally, since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, things are all very different. Russia is currently at war, and there are battles raging within 8 hours of Moscow. While it is still relatively safe to visit, that could change at any time as the war with Ukraine continues.

Is Moscow Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, Moscow is worth visiting. It is one of the most unique major cities we have ever visited, and we hope to make it back one day. The Russian Orthodox churches are stunning, the city’s history is unlike any other, and the food is to die for.

While many visitors prefer St. Petersburg to Moscow, I think Moscow deserves a lot of hype of its own. Moscow is the beating heart of Russian culture and history, and it’s a place I highly recommend checking out if you have the chance.

That’s all we have for you about Moscow! I hope this post was helpful as you plan your trip to Russia’s capital.

Have you been to Moscow? Or is this your first time visiting? Comment below if you have anything to add to our travel guide!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

Leave a comment

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Meet The Author - Greg

Recent Post

How Much Does a Trip to Egypt Cost: Budget Breakdown

March 10, 2024

Best Time to Visit the India Gate in Delhi [2024]

March 1, 2024

Flying with a Sinus Infection: Tips to Avoid Pain

February 20, 2024

11 Best Things to Do in Breckenridge Besides Skiing

February 12, 2024

10 Best Beaches in Mexico for Families (We Lived Here)

February 3, 2024

eStore closed

System maintenance, the pef mbp estore is currently down for system maintenance..

We hope to have the eStore back up and running shortly. During this time you can access the website for information, but no ticket orders can be processed online, or over the phone.

We appreciate your patience and understanding.