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Moscow's three airports – Sheremetyevo, Vnukovo International, and Moscow Vnukovo – offer a range of amenities and services to keep travellers comfortable during layovers. If you're wondering what to buy at Moscow Airport, you'll be pleased to know that there are plenty of options. Duty-free outlets offer international and Russian goods, including souvenirs, cosmetics, and spirits, with prices in Moscow DF shops displayed in euros. You can also sample Russian dishes like blinis or borscht, or enjoy international options, including Italian and Asian cuisine. If you have a longer layover, you can take the Aeroexpress train to central Moscow and explore iconic sights like Red Square and Saint Basil's Cathedral.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Currency | Russian Ruble (RUB) |
| Payment methods | Cash is preferred as credit cards are not widely accepted. Foreign banking cards may not work. |
| Transportation | Aeroexpress trains, Moscow Metro, bus, taxi, car rental |
| Airport amenities | Restaurants, cafes, bars, airport lounges, duty-free shops, luggage storage |
| Nearby attractions | Red Square, Saint Basil's Cathedral, Gorky Park, Kremlin, State Tretyakov Gallery, Art Gallery of Europe and America, Museum of Soviet Arcade Machines |
| Typical souvenirs | Matryoshka dolls, music boxes with Russian songs, communist-era items, nesting dolls, hand-painted wooden items |
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What You'll Learn
Alcohol, cosmetics, and cigarettes are cheaper at duty-free
If you're looking to purchase duty-free goods at Moscow Airport, you'll be pleased to know that alcohol, cosmetics, and cigarettes are available at competitive prices. The devaluation of the Russian ruble has made prices for these items very attractive for foreign travellers, especially when compared to prices in the UK or the EU.
When it comes to alcohol, you'll find a range of options, including vodka, which is a popular choice for travellers looking to bring home a taste of Russia. The prices for alcohol at Moscow Airport's duty-free shops are often lower than at other European airports, so it's a great opportunity to stock up on spirits or treat yourself to a nice bottle of wine or liquor.
For those interested in cosmetics, Moscow Airport's duty-free shops offer a wide selection of perfumes and aftershaves from global brands. These items are often priced lower than at your destination, especially if you're returning to a country like the UK, where duty-free shops cater more to travellers who may have forgotten to buy items earlier. Remember to compare prices between the two duty-free operators at Moscow Airport, SVO, to ensure you're getting the best deal.
Cigarettes are also available at duty-free shops in Moscow Airport, and the prices are likely to be favourable due to the same economic factors affecting alcohol and cosmetics. If you are a smoker or are purchasing for someone who is, this could be a good opportunity to save some money.
It's important to note that duty-free shops in Moscow Airport typically display prices in Euros, and you can pay in Euros using cash or card. While Russia usually requires transactions to be made in rubles, the airport's duty-free shops are an exception. If you choose to pay in a different currency, they will convert the displayed Euro amount into your chosen currency.
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Russian souvenirs, including Matryoshka dolls
Russian souvenirs are a great way to remember your trip to Moscow. Matryoshka dolls, also known as stacking dolls, nesting dolls, Russian tea dolls, or Russian dolls, are a popular choice. These colourful wooden dolls of decreasing size placed one inside another are a symbol of Russian culture and make excellent gifts. The first set of Matryoshka dolls was crafted in 1890 and traditionally, the outermost doll is a woman in a Russian dress, with the innermost being a baby. You can find Matryoshka dolls in various sizes and styles, from traditional peasant girl designs to modern political figures, cartoon characters, and historical icons.
If you're looking for something other than Matryoshka dolls, there are plenty of unique souvenirs to choose from. You can find handmade ceramic mugs and tea sets with intricate Russian-style patterns and fairytale characters. These sets can be quite expensive, reflecting the craftsmanship involved in their creation. For something more affordable, consider embroidered patches featuring famous Russian writers, Matryoshka-shaped jewellery, or phone cases with quirky Russian designs.
Russian food products also make great souvenirs, and you can find items like pine cone jam, lavender honey from Crimea, and herbal tea from Altai at local markets. If you're looking for something truly unique, check out the exclusive tableware by small ceramic companies like Pero Ceramics, which features fun designs of animals and the iconic Russian bear. For a self-walking toy, Russia's Mazyuk&Metelev offers a unique, hand-painted Winnie-the-Pooh that doesn't require batteries or winding-up.
Lastly, don't forget to explore the duty-free shops at Moscow Airport, where you can find a range of Russian souvenirs, including Matryoshka dolls, alongside cosmetics and spirits. With a long layover, you might even venture into the city to visit markets and bring back a piece of Russia with you.
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Spirits, perfumes, and aftershave
If you're looking to purchase spirits, perfumes, or aftershaves, Moscow Airport's duty-free shops offer a range of options. The shops cater to both international and Russian products, so you can expect to find well-known global brands alongside local specialities.
When it comes to spirits, you may be able to take advantage of competitive prices due to the devaluation of the ruble. Alcoholic beverages, such as vodka, are often produced locally and can be found at lower prices in Moscow than at other European airports. This makes Moscow Airport an ideal place to purchase spirits, especially if you're travelling to or from a country with high alcohol taxes.
For perfumes and aftershaves, Moscow Airport's duty-free shops provide a wide selection. You can find both international brands and fragrances unique to Russia. It's important to note that duty-free shops at Moscow Airport typically display prices in Euros, and you can pay in Euros or have the amount converted to another currency. This can result in an additional cost, so it's recommended to clarify the pricing and payment details before making your purchase.
Overall, Moscow Airport offers a convenient and varied shopping experience for spirits, perfumes, and aftershaves. With competitive pricing and a range of options, it can be a great place to purchase these items, especially if you want to try local specialities or take advantage of duty-free prices.
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Russian food, including blinis and borscht
If you're looking to sample some traditional Russian food during your time in Moscow, there are a few dishes you should definitely try. Two of the most iconic Russian dishes are blinis and borscht, and you can find both of these at the Mu-Mu Cafe in Sheremetyevo Airport.
Blinis
Blinis are traditional Russian pancakes that can be served in both sweet and savoury ways. Typically, they are served with fruit and cream or meat and cheese, but you may also find them stuffed with other savoury fillings or topped with sweet treats like jam or honey. Blinis are a must-try when visiting Russia, as they are a staple of the country's cuisine and can be found on many menus.
Borscht
Borscht is a beetroot soup with origins in Ukraine. It is a healthy and nutritious dish, often packed with vegetables like beans, beets, carrots, and potatoes. While it is typically made without meat, some variations include beef or chicken broth for added flavour. Borscht is another iconic Eastern European dish and is widely available in Moscow, including at the airport.
In addition to these dishes, Moscow's markets offer a variety of traditional Russian foods and handicrafts. The Danilovsky Market, in particular, is known for its excellent street food and international flavours. If you're looking to bring home some edible souvenirs, you can find traditional Russian treats like caviar, pickled vegetables, and honey at the city's markets.
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International food, including Italian and Asian cuisine
Moscow's airports offer a variety of international food options, including Italian and Asian cuisine. If you're looking for a quick bite, Moscow Domodedovo Airport has several fast-food restaurants, including international chains like Burger King, KFC, and McDonald's, which has been a leading fast-food chain in Russia for over 28 years. You can also find local favourites such as KROSHKA-KARTOSHKA, DONER HOUSE, BUD BURGER, and PELMEN.
For those with a longer layover or who prefer a more leisurely dining experience, Moscow's airports offer a range of international options. At Sheremetyevo Airport, you can find Italian cuisine at Il Patio, which offers a variety of meat, seafood, and vegetable meals in a cosy atmosphere. For American fare, there is TGI Fridays, which has been operating in Russia for over 20 years, and an American loft-style restaurant offering burgers, steaks, Buffalo wings, and more. If you're craving Asian cuisine, the Gastronomic Market «EDIM LETIM» at Domodedovo Airport features four thematic corners, including street food and oriental cuisine. Here, you can find a wide range of options, including homemade dishes, sandwiches, burgers, pizza, shish kebabs, and oriental pastries.
In addition to these options, Sheremetyevo Airport offers a variety of other international choices, including Irish, Japanese, German, Uzbek, and American restaurants. You can also find international chains such as Starbucks, Costa Coffee, and Subway, which is available at both Sheremetyevo and Domodedovo airports. So, whether you're looking for a quick bite or a more relaxed dining experience, Moscow's airports have plenty of international options to choose from.
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Frequently asked questions
Moscow Airport has duty-free outlets offering international and Russian goods, including souvenirs, cosmetics, and spirits. Prices in the duty-free shops are displayed in euros and can be paid in euros or any other currency. If you pay in a different currency, the displayed euro amount will be converted.
Moscow Sheremetyevo Airport has numerous restaurants and cafes serving Russian and international cuisine. The airport also has several lounges, many of which are accessible for a fee. If you have a long layover, you can take the Aeroexpress train to central Moscow or explore nearby attractions such as Red Square and Saint Basil's Cathedral.
The Aeroexpress train is a high-speed train that connects Sheremetyevo Airport with Belorusky Station in the city center in just 35 minutes. From there, you can switch to the Moscow Metro line. Alternatively, you can take a bus or taxi to the city center.
