Is it Safe to Be in Moscow?#

Safety in Moscow, Russia (country_code: RU) is a common question for visitors and those considering a move. Like any major global capital with a population exceeding 10 million (population: 10381222), it has its own set of considerations. Overall, many residents and long-term visitors find Moscow (name: Moscow) to be a safe city for daily life, especially in the central and tourist areas.

Crime Rates:

Moscow’s reported crime rates for violent crime, particularly against tourists, are generally low. The bigger concern is petty crime. Pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded places like public transport, busy markets, and major tourist attractions. Based on global safety indices from sources like Numbeo, Moscow often ranks with moderate levels of crime, comparable to or safer than many large cities in Western Europe regarding violent crime, but perhaps higher in terms of petty theft or corruption perception.

Common Scams and Petty Theft:

Be aware of common scams. These include overly aggressive touts, inflated taxi fares (especially if not using official apps or registered services), and sometimes individuals approaching tourists claiming to need help or wanting to exchange currency at unfavorable rates. Pickpocketing is the most frequent issue. Keep valuables secure and out of sight, particularly in busy areas or on the Metro.

Safety in Public Transport and Popular Areas:

The Moscow Metro is generally safe and efficient, used by millions daily. However, it is a prime location for pickpocketing due to congestion. Be vigilant, especially during rush hours. Stations and trains are often monitored by police. Popular tourist areas like Red Square, the Kremlin, and the Arbat are well-patrolled and busy, which acts as a deterrent for major crimes, though petty theft is still a possibility in dense crowds. Walking in central areas at night is usually safe, but it’s wise to stick to well-lit streets.

Solo Traveler Safety:

Moscow is largely safe for solo travelers.

• Men: Solo male travelers face very few specific safety risks beyond general petty crime precautions. Standard awareness applies.
• Women: Solo female travelers should feel reasonably safe in Moscow. Common advice includes avoiding walking alone in unlit parks or isolated streets late at night, being cautious about accepting drinks from strangers in bars or clubs, and using reputable taxi services (app-based like Yandex Go or official taxis). The city is less prone to street harassment than some other major cities.

Local Laws and Unwritten Rules:

Be aware of Russian laws. Public intoxication is frowned upon and can lead to fines or detention. Photography of certain official buildings, military sites, or transport infrastructure might be restricted or draw unwanted attention – look for signs. While not a strict law for short-term tourists, if staying longer than seven days, registering your presence with the authorities was historically required; check current regulations if planning an extended stay. Always carry identification (a copy of your passport and visa is usually sufficient for daily use, keep the originals secure).

Emergency Services:

Emergency services (police, ambulance, fire) are accessed by dialing 112 (the common European emergency number) or older specific numbers (02 for police, 03 for ambulance from a landline, often * numbers from mobile). Response times in Moscow’s central areas are generally prompt, though they can be impacted by traffic. Police patrols are visible in tourist areas. While language can sometimes be a barrier with first responders if you don’t speak Russian, major tourist areas and emergency lines are becoming more equipped to handle basic English.

Recent Information:

Travel advisories issued by foreign governments for Russia often include warnings regarding potential political instability, terrorism (though attacks are rare), and the general security environment, especially in light of current international relations. It is prudent to check your home country’s latest travel advice before visiting. However, for the average tourist sticking to central Moscow, daily safety concerns primarily revolve around petty crime and basic awareness of surroundings.