Moscow’s metro system is one of the most efficient and affordable ways to get around the city, offering a vast network of lines that connect the most important areas of the capital. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, choosing the right payment method for your metro journey is essential to ensure a smooth travel experience. Moscow’s metro system allows both cash and contactless payment options, each with its advantages and drawbacks.
Here’s a detailed comparison of cash and contactless payment methods for purchasing metro tickets in Moscow, along with practical advice for navigating the system.
1. Cash Payment for Metro Tickets
Paying with cash is still an option for those who prefer not to use contactless cards or electronic payment methods. However, this method is becoming less common, as more people switch to more convenient and faster payment methods like the Troika card or mobile payment.
How to Pay with Cash:
- Ticket Machines: You can purchase a single-ride ticket or multiple-ride tickets at one of the many ticket machines available in most metro stations. These machines accept both coins and banknotes in rubles.
- Cash Payment at Ticket Counters: If you prefer a more personal touch, you can also buy tickets at the ticket counters located at metro stations, where staff can assist you in purchasing your fare.
Price of Tickets with Cash:
- A single-ride ticket costs 55 rubles when purchased with cash.
- Multi-ride tickets or 10-ride cards are available at discounted rates if bought at the ticket counter, usually priced around 500-550 rubles for 10 rides.
Advantages of Paying with Cash:
- No need for a card or app: Cash is ideal if you don’t have a Troika card or prefer not to use contactless payment methods.
- One-off trips: Cash payment is great for tourists who only plan on using the metro once or twice during their stay.
- Simplicity: It’s an easy and straightforward way to pay for tickets without needing to worry about topping up a card or using a smartphone app.
Drawbacks of Paying with Cash:
- Inconvenient for multiple trips: If you’re planning on using the metro multiple times in one day or during your stay, paying cash each time can become tedious.
- Limited options: Not all metro stations may offer cash payment at ticket machines, especially in more modern or recently renovated stations.
- Potential for change issues: The metro staff or ticket machines may not always be able to provide change for larger bills, especially during peak hours.
2. Contactless Payment Methods for Metro Tickets
Moscow’s metro system is embracing the convenience of contactless payment options, allowing travelers to easily tap and go using smart cards or mobile devices.
Contactless Payment Options:
- Troika Card
- Mobile Payment Apps (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Yandex Pay)
How to Pay with Contactless Options:
- Troika Card: The Troika card is a rechargeable smart card that works across the Moscow Metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses. You can top up your Troika card at ticket machines, news kiosks, and top-up points around the city. Simply tap the card at the turnstile when entering the metro, and the fare will be automatically deducted.
- Mobile Payment: For those who prefer to use their smartphones, the Moscow Transport app allows you to pay using Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Yandex Pay. Once you’ve set up the app with your payment information, simply tap your phone on the card reader when entering the metro station.
Price of Tickets with Contactless Payment:
- The price for single rides with contactless payment (via Troika card or mobile app) is typically 36-40 rubles per journey, which is cheaper than paying in cash for a one-off ticket (55 rubles).
- Unlimited travel cards and multi-ride options are also available with the Troika card, offering even better value for those staying longer in Moscow.
Advantages of Paying with Contactless Payment:
- Convenience: The Troika card is very convenient for frequent travelers, allowing easy reloading and quick access without needing to buy tickets at kiosks every time.
- Speed: Contactless payment is much faster than paying with cash, as you only need to tap the card or phone on the turnstile.
- Discounts: Using the Troika card offers discounts compared to cash payments for single rides, and you can also benefit from free transfers between different transport modes within 90 minutes.
- Mobile convenience: For tech-savvy tourists, paying with a smartphone through the Moscow Transport app is highly convenient, as it allows you to avoid carrying a card altogether.
Drawbacks of Paying with Contactless Payment:
- Initial cost: While the Troika card itself is affordable, you’ll need to pay for the card itself (around 50 rubles), and you may need to top up the card in advance.
- Not everyone uses smartphones: Some tourists may prefer not to use mobile payment apps, and while the Troika card is a great solution, it still requires initial registration.
- Troubleshooting: If your Troika card or mobile payment doesn’t work (e.g., if you run out of credit), you may need to find an alternative payment method.
3. Comparing Cash vs. Contactless Payment
| Aspect | Cash Payment | Contactless Payment (Troika or Mobile) |
|---|---|---|
| Convenience | Good for one-time trips | Excellent for frequent travel |
| Speed | Slower, requires extra time for transaction | Fast and easy, just tap and go |
| Cost per ride | 55 rubles per single ride | 36-40 rubles per ride with Troika card |
| Best for | Tourists with limited metro usage | Frequent travelers or long-term stays |
| Top-up process | Not necessary for single trips | Must load Troika card or phone wallet |
| Availability | Available everywhere | Available at metro stations, bus stops, and through apps |
| Free Transfers | No | Yes, within 90 minutes with Troika card |
4. Where to Buy Tickets or Reload Cards
- Metro Stations: Most metro stations have ticket machines where you can purchase single tickets or top up your Troika card. Many stations also have ticket counters where you can buy tickets or get assistance.
- Mobile Apps: For mobile payments, download the Moscow Transport app to set up and manage your mobile payment method (via Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Yandex Pay).
- News Kiosks: In addition to metro stations, you can top up your Troika card at news kiosks or other convenient locations around the city.
5. Practical Tips for Tourists
- Plan ahead: If you plan on using the metro frequently during your visit, get a Troika card. It will save you time and money in the long run.
- Be mindful of rush hours: The metro can get very crowded during rush hours (8:00 AM – 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM). Try to travel outside of these peak times to avoid the crowds.
- Check your balance: If you’re using a Troika card, keep track of your balance and top it up as needed to ensure you don’t run out of credit during your travels.
- Keep your Troika card handy: If you have a Troika card, make sure it’s easily accessible so you can tap it quickly when entering the metro.
Conclusion
Moscow’s metro system offers both cash payment and contactless payment options, each with its own benefits. Cash payment is convenient for those making one-time trips, while contactless payment (via the Troika card or mobile apps) is ideal for tourists and locals who need a quicker and more efficient way to navigate the city. The Troika card is the most recommended option for those who plan to use public transport frequently, as it offers discounted fares, ease of use, and free transfers. Whichever method you choose, navigating Moscow’s metro system will be a breeze with a bit of preparation!