The Necessity of the Moscow Subway System

Moscow taxis are notoriously expensive and traffic a nightmare during peak hours, so the best way to get around is the excellent Moscow Metro system, a godsend to travelers on a budget. The Moscow Metro opened in 1935 with only one line and 13 stations and now has 203 stations, covering a route of more than 335 kilometers.

The system doesn’t have multiple zones like the London Underground, so tickets are a fixed price, no matter how far you travel or how many times you transfer. The route map, with its ring lines and radial lines can appear confusing to the directionally challenged, but once you’re underground and on board, it is simple to use. The only barrier, of course, is if you don’t speak or read Russian. But there is a Russian/English metro map available on the English-language version of the official Metro website. Or, grab one of the free Metro apps for your smartphone, which provides a bilingual Metro map, route building and travel time estimates.

And not only will the Metro get you to notable tourist destinations, the Metro is itself a must-see for visitors. Listed as one of the most beautiful subways in the world, 44 Moscow Metro stations have been designated cultural heritage sites themselves. Some of the most stunning include Taganskaya Metro Station, with its soaring ceilings and elaborate panels featuring floral motifs and images of World War II servicemen; and the impressive Mayakovskaya, an excellent example of Stalinist Architecture used as a command post for Moscow’s anti-aircraft regiment.