Moscow

Population:

10.5million

Money:

The currency in Moscow is Roubles. There are plenty of exchange bureau and banks throughout the centre, with varying rates, but it can be tricky to understand what's going on, so stick to ATMs if you're worried. Beware of large notes because many places won't have change for such amounts.

Language:

The Russian script is Cyrillic, which does complicate getting about unless you can read it. Getting your hands on a copy of a metro map or street map with both Cyrillic and English writing on is a great help. English isn't particularly prevalent in Moscow, although workers in the main tourist places do tend to speak some English. Learning a few words of Russian is very helpful.

Dialling codes:

+7 for Russia then 495 and 499 for the Moscow and its surrounding region.

Entry:

A visa is required for travel to Moscow so be sure to get yours in plenty of time. You can apply at the Russian Federation Embassy or online. Once you arrive, if you're staying for three days or more you must register with the Federal Migration Service. Most hotels will do this for you.

Current Foreign Office Advice for Russia