Visit Moscow hotels in the summer or winter and enjoy the magical city of Moscow Russia.

Moscow taxis and Gypsy cabs

It was in 1925 that Muscovites for the first time saw taxis in the streets of the city. Those were French Renaults and Italian Fiats, later in 1932 replaced by domestically produced Gaz-A cars. Until the 90s all the vehicles were owned by the state and among several taxi depots. Now following the new regulations issued by the city authorities, a taxi can be owned both officially and privately and as such any domestic or foreign model may be used.

In Moscow taxis are usually overpriced - a typical ride for 10 minutes costing approximately 100 roubles ($3.50) and a 20 minute ride costs 200 roubles ($7) or more. In provincial cities the situation is different and the taxis are usually more reasonably priced. As with taxi drivers all over the world, keep track of what they are doing and don't trust the meters so much. It is always better to negotiate the price before you get in rather than relying on a meter. A great alternative to official taxis are gypsy cabs. These are just regular people in their regular cars that are out to make a buck. It is the Russian equivalent of American hitch hiking but in Russia, you always pay. This is how it works; stand at the curb and put your arm out. Cars will begin to stop for you. As with taxis, always negotiate the price beforehand. Also, be a little careful, it is best to not get into a car with more than 1 man in it or to get into a car with suspicious looking characters. Furthermore, if you are a single female, it's better to call or flag an official taxi if traveling at night just to be on the safe side.

Whether staying at a vacation apartment in Moscow or at a Moscow hotel, we will do our best to make your time as memorable as possible