We would like to explore the famaous Moscow metro stations and ride the metro. I have a number of questions to ask regarding Moscow metro:

1. It is safe for a foreigner to ride the metro and wonder around in the stations? Are there any muggings and robberies in the stations as well as on the metro?

2. Can you take pictures of the inside of the Metro stations? I heard people would prevent you from doing this and that you might get arrested by the police.

3. Can you purchase Metro tickets at the stations from the ticket counters, or do you have to use one of those automated machines? (not understanding the language, this will pose a problem).

Appreciate any responses, and thank you very much in advance.

sgsg

The metro is safe to ride, but you will get squashed like a sardine in a can if you ride during rush hours.
Yes, there are pick pockets there just like in any other big city so just be aware.
Not sure about taking the pictures as I never saw anybody doing it.
You need to buy tockens at ticket booth or automatic machines. Rates posted in Russki, sorry.
Luda

Thanks, Luda.

I don't think that the metro in Moscow accepts tokens anymore- I haven't seen them used in at least 3-4 years. They have single use cards, multi use cards, etc.

I have taken photos in the stations, but never on a train. People will look at you strangely at first, but a true Moskvich(ka) will appreciate your respect for their metro. I have never been approached by police for this.

Don;t know the rules in Moscow - but there are rules against photos in many subways - including NYC - as a safety measure against terrorists. Not something I would care to have to explain to the Russian police - esp after the late events in London.

And be sure you can read enough Cyrillic to understand the names of the stations.

Tokens are not accepted on the metro; you must buy tickets with magnetic strips, you can buy tickets valid for several journeys. The cost is 15roubles per trip.

Tickets can be purchased from the ticket office.

I have taken lots of photos in the stations, even in communist times and as recently as this month.

Never had a problem travelling on the metro any time day or late night (finishes at 1am) but sometimes there are unsavory characters hanging around mainline stations. Interesting website in Russian www.metro.ru

To All:

Thanks for the info on Moscow Metro. They have been very informative.

sgsg

MOSCOW METRO STATIONS - UNDERGROUND PALACE PANORAMAS
BIGGEST PHOTO COLLECTION ON THE WEB
(and more useful info):

http://www.beeflowers.com/Metro/
http://vrm.vrway.com/issue15/MOSCOW_...PANORAMAS.html

Good luck!
(http://zxc.orgfree.com)

Thanks M_Zed. These two Web Site certainly give wonderful images of Moscow metro stations.

sgsg