For travelers with a layover in Moscow, the proximity of BKA to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 120 minutes via Bus/Marshrutka to train station, then Elektrichka commuter train, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
A few things to sort out before you leave BKA:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Russia. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Moscow takes about 120 minutes by Bus/Marshrutka to train station, then Elektrichka commuter train. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is RUB. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some RUB in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from BKA to Moscow
The most straightforward way into Moscow is the Bus/Marshrutka to train station, then Elektrichka commuter train, which takes about 120 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 140 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Bus/Marshrutka to train station, then Elektrichka commuter train is usually the smarter call.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Moscow might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$6 USD
- A meal: ~$11 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$27 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
What to See and Do in Moscow
For a layover visit to Moscow, we’d suggest Kolomenskoye Museum-Reserve and Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing. You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing.
If you’d rather stay inside BKA — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Bykovo Airport Business Lounge
- Duty-Free & Souvenir Shop
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: Stolovaya â57 (GUM) and Dr. Zhivago are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Moscow.
- At the airport: Bykovo Diner and Coffee & Grab will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at BKA aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Moscow itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at BKA, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Moscow itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Russia that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, BKA has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Moscow doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 120 minutes from BKA, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.