Flights to Russia: How to Plan Your Journey

Getting to Russia is easier when you plan the journey in a few clear steps. This page shows how to compare flight options, check baggage rules and connections, understand which airports serve the main cities and prepare for the transfer into town. Routes, schedules and conditions can change, so confirm every detail with your airline and the official source.

Compare flight options calmly

Many visitors compare more than one route before they book. Looking only at the price can hide long layovers or awkward arrival times, so it helps to compare the whole journey.

Check which routes and carriers currently serve Russia from your country, since availability can change and may depend on your passport and situation. Booking directly with the airline or through a well-known travel provider makes it easier to ask questions later.

• Total travel time, including layovers.
• Arrival time, and whether public transport will be running.
• Number of connections and the time between flights.
• Whether the fare is flexible if your plans change.

Check baggage rules and connections

Baggage allowances differ between airlines and fare types, and a connecting trip may involve more than one set of rules. Read the allowance for your exact ticket, and check the size and weight limits for cabin and checked bags.

If you connect, check whether your bags are checked through to your destination, and whether you need to collect and re-check them. Leave a comfortable margin between flights, especially if you change airports or terminals.

• Cabin and checked baggage allowance for your fare.
• Size and weight limits, and any extra fees to check on the airline's site.
• Whether baggage is checked through on a connecting trip.
• Minimum connection time, and what happens if you miss a flight.
• Items that cannot go in hand luggage, such as some liquids.

Know which airports serve your destination

Russia is very large, and its major cities have their own airports, some with more than one. Moscow, for example, is served by several airports, and the one you use depends on your airline and route.

Check the airport name and terminal on your booking confirmation before you plan the transfer. Airports are often outside the city, so travel times and options differ from place to place.

• Note the airport name and terminal on your ticket.
• Read the airport's official information before you travel.
• Check whether you arrive or depart at a different airport.
• If you plan to travel between cities, compare trains and domestic flights.

Plan the transfer and arrive on time

Options between an airport and a city centre usually include a train, a bus and a taxi. The best choice depends on the airport, the time of day, your luggage and your hotel. Check current schedules, fares and payment options with the official operators, since they can change.

Save your hotel address offline, in Latin letters and, if you can, also in Russian, so that you can show it to a driver or staff. On departure day, allow extra time for traffic, check-in and security, and check the airline's advice on when to arrive.

• Decide on the transfer option before you land.
• Check schedules and payment options with the official operator.
• Keep your hotel address and phone number offline.
• Allow extra time on the way back to the airport.

Quick checklist

• Compare the whole journey, not only the price
• Check baggage rules for your exact fare
• Check connection times and terminals
• Note which airport your flight uses
• Choose a transfer option and check it with the operator
• Save your hotel address offline
• Allow extra time for departure

Official sources

• UK government foreign travel advice
• US Department of State travel information

Frequently asked questions

Which airport should I choose?

It depends on your airline and route, so check your booking. Large cities can have several airports, and the best one for you depends on your plans, so read the airport information and confirm details with the airline.

How early should I arrive at the airport?

Follow your airline's advice, which can differ by airport and flight. Allow extra time for traffic, check-in and security, and check the official airport and airline websites for the current guidance.

Is a transfer into the city easy?

Options usually include a train, a bus and a taxi, and the best one depends on the airport and the time. Check current schedules and fares with the official operators before you travel.

What if my flight is delayed or cancelled?

Contact your airline first and follow its instructions. Check your booking terms and travel insurance, and keep your receipts and confirmations, since the options depend on your ticket and your policy.

These are general tips. Rules and conditions depend on your situation and can change: please confirm all details with the official source before you travel.