Entertainment Overview

The Moscow Times (available at newsstands) and Element and LifeStyle (available for free at hotels, bars, and restaurants frequented by foreigners) publish up-to-date calendars of events in English.

Tickets to most Moscow theaters can be obtained at the theaters themselves or at the box offices (teatralnaya kassa) scattered throughout the city. Note that some theaters charge different prices for Russians and foreigners. If you're intimidated by the language barrier, avail yourself of your hotel's concierge. The prices are inflated, but a concierge can often get you tickets to otherwise sold-out performances. Scalpers usually can be found selling tickets outside theaters immediately prior to performances, but they have been known to rip off tourists, either charging exorbitant prices or selling fake tickets.

Foreigners make easy crime targets, so you should take special precautions at night. You're safest venturing out with other people. Remember: the more vodkas you drink, the more vulnerable you can become. Do not drive under any circumstances if you drink; the laws here are strict, and traffic police can and do stop cars at will.

The quality of bars varies widely, from karaoke dives to posh Irish pubs filled with expatriates. Almost all the major hotels have upscale bars, but be aware that prostitution is still a thriving business at most of Moscow's low- to mid-range hotels. The National, Savoy, and Metropol have polished (generally prostitute-free) bars, but without much in the way of atmosphere. The Baltschug Kempinski, Ararat Park Hyatt, and Golden Ring are elegant and have majestic views of the city.

Finding a place to gamble in Moscow is like shooting fish in a barrel. Every other metro station or kiosk has video poker and slot machines. However, most travelers skip the street-side gambling options in favor of one of Moscow's high-end casinos, with armed guards and armored Mercedes. Stick with some of the better-known places, including those listed here. Most big casinos arrange cab service to and from the city's major hotels and are open 24 hours. Come prepared with a wad of cash (just don't flash the money around) because Moscow's bigger and nicer venues are for the serious, not the curious.