If you’ve got a layover in Moscow, don’t let it go to waste sitting at SVO. The city, in Russia, is within easy reach — roughly 100 minutes by Aeroexpress Train. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of SVO:
- Can you legally enter Russia? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 100-minute journey each way by Aeroexpress Train, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the RUB. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Transport from Sheremetyevo International Airport to Downtown
From SVO, the Aeroexpress Train gets you to Moscow in around 100 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 120 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Aeroexpress Train offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
How Much Money You’ll Need
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.
Bag Storage Near SVO
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At SVO, you’ll find bag storage at Luggage storage is located on the 1st floor of the multi-level parking lot in Terminal B and on the 2nd floor of Terminal C, next to the Aeroexpress entrance..
Tip: store your bags as soon as you clear arrivals to maximize your free time. If the airport options don’t work for you, check online luggage storage platforms for alternatives near the city center.
How to Spend Your Time in Moscow
Two recommendations for your time in Moscow:
Start with Red Square and St. Basil’s Cathedral. The architecture is worth seeing, even from the outside. Then, if time allows, make your way to GUM Department Store. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
If you’d rather stay inside SVO — 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:
- Mastercard Lounge (SVO Terminal D)
- Voyage Capsule Hotel
Food & Dining Options
For food in Moscow, local travelers recommend Dr. Zhivago. If you have time for a second stop, Varenichnaya â1 (near Belorussky Station) is another popular pick.
Back at SVO, Mu-Mu (My-My) is the go-to. Shokoladnitsa rounds out your in-terminal options.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at SVO include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Russia also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at SVO, 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.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Moscow exploring the streets or relaxing at SVO, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.