I will be flying to Moscow independently next week (Sheremetyevo-2) and am unsure where/how to exchange money.

I know Fodorites recommend obtaining money from the ATM's, but I am wondering if there are FUNCTIONING ATM's at the airport, or in the city. We are staying near Red Square.

Any past experiences or suggestions on money exchange in Russia?
Thanks

If you are staying near Red Square, you will find ATMs inside G.U.M. Department Store, the big building opposite the Kremlin. Also, you will find currency exchange offices there, too.

Queenie: I`m certainly NOT an expert but sure know where to get money. I am assuming you have made arrangements to be met at the airport by transport as the local taxi drivers are known to overcharge. Wait to exchange when downtown.......agree with USNR about G.U.M but hesitated because I was alone. Preferred to go to any of the better hotels as they always had security guards in their money exchange offices. Simply walk in and use their ATM even though you are not a guest. You will also find them all over the streets so getting money is no problem. You can withdraw in Roubles or Dollars whatever you prefer. I even found ATMs in some large grocery stores.

Have a great trip.

You can get money at the airport, you will find an ATM near the baggage point, get the money while you wait.

Thanks so much everyone - Glad to hear that I can get money at the airport and hotels (never thought of that).
I think GUM will be closed on my arrival date, however, as it is a national holiday (May 9)?

May 9th is a Russian National Holiday Victory Day celebrating the defeat of Nazi Germany in WWII. If that gets you in the mood to see a great museum of the war, make sure to get to Park Pobiedy (Victory Park) on Poklonnaya Gora. It's on the western side of the city on Kutuzovsky Prospekt and is absolutely wonderful! I think you can catch trollybus #2 outside of Red Square, near the Zhukov Statue, that will get you there(also a scenic route). Enjoy!!