Apps & Safety

How to Order a Taxi

Navigate Russian cities safely and comfortably. Avoid street hailing and use the leading apps like a local.

The "Uber" of Russia

Getting around is efficient and affordable. While public transport is excellent, taxis are often the most convenient option. We strongly advise against hailing taxis from the street due to safety concerns and price gouging.

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Yandex Go

The #1 Taxi App

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Cash / Card

Payment options

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2–5 Min

Average wait time

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Classes

Economy to Ultima

How to Ride

1

Download Yandex Go

Available on App Store and Google Play (sometimes named "Yango" internationally, but "Yandex Go" in Russia). It is a super-app for ride-hailing and delivery.

2

Setup Payment

Link a Russian bank card or select "Cash" as payment method. Most international cards do not work directly in the app anymore.

3

Choose Service Level

Economy: Standard affordable rides.
Comfort/Comfort+: Newer cars, better drivers (recommended).
Business/Ultima: Luxury black cars (Mercedes E/S-Class) with professional chauffeurs.

4

Order & Track

Enter your destination, pin your pickup point carefully (GPS can be jumpy in city centers), and track your driver's arrival.

5

Car Sharing (Note)

Russia has huge fleets (Yandex Drive, Delimobil). However, signing up requires a translated license and often a residence permit. Stick to taxis for short trips.

Your Checklist

For a smooth ride

  • Yandex Go App installed
  • Cash (small bills) or linked RU card
  • Battery charged (needed for app)
  • Destination address in Russian (copy-paste)

Good to Know

GPS Issues

In central Moscow, GPS signals can be interfered with. Check the pickup pin manually on the map before ordering.

Child Seats

If traveling with kids, you MUST order the "Kids" tariff. Drivers will refuse to take children without a proper seat.

Airport Pickup

Order only after you have collected your luggage. Wait times are short, and parking fees apply for longer waits.

Language

The app chat translates automatically. Drivers rarely speak English, but the app handles the navigation.

Cost Overview

Typical Fares (Moscow)

Ride Type Cost (approx.)
Short City Ride (Economy) 200 – 400 RUB
Center to Outskirts (Comfort) 800 – 1500 RUB
Airport Transfer 1800 – 3000 RUB

Tariff Differences

Class Multiplier
Economy Base Rate
Comfort+ ~1.5x Base
Business ~2.5x Base
Ultima / Maybach ~5.0x Base

Pro Tips

Safety Features

Share your ride link with friends directly from the app. It allows real-time tracking of your journey.

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. You can set a default percentage (e.g. 5-10%) in the app settings.

Dynamic Pricing

During rain or snow, prices can double ("surge pricing"). Wait 10-15 minutes if the price seems too high.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Uber?

Uber Russia merged with Yandex. The old global Uber app does not work here. You need Yandex Go or the specific local Uber Russia app.

Is it safe at night?

Yes, official app taxis are very safe. All drivers are tracked. Avoid unregistered "gypsy cabs".

Can I pay with foreign cash?

No, drivers only accept Rubles. Have small notes (100, 500 RUB) ready if paying cash.

What about Metro?

The Metro is faster during rush hour (8-10 AM, 5-7 PM). Taxis can get stuck in heavy traffic.

Ready to Move?

Download the app and you are ready to go.

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