MONEY

What money can I use in Russia?

You will need Russian Roubles (RUR), and you can even get them in your home country. Please enquire at your local post office or currency exchange agents. However, it is simple and convenient to change either Euros or US dollars once you arrive in Russia. Traveller’s cheques can be changed, but often with difficulty. All major credit cards are generally accepted in Moscow and St. Petersburg, but not in the provinces. American Express is rarely accepted in Russia.

Currently there are no restrictions for amounts of money that can be brought into Russia. Any sum of money over $10,000 brought into the country (including traveller’s cheques) must be declared at customs.

Individual residents are allowed to export foreign currencies in a lump cash sum up to $10,000. All exported cash assets above $3,000 must be declared.

How much money should I take with me?

Please note, Moscow and St. Petersburg are among the most expensive cities in the world so please do not be surprised with high prices. A dual-pricing system does exist for most local tourist attractions and museums - Russian residents pay a small percentage of what foreigners do. Typical expenses such as restaurant food, drinks, and entrance fees to clubs are comparable or slightly lower than London or New York. It is also easy to find inexpensive places to eat, drink and shop, and is worthwhile to consult a guidebook. Domestic spirits, beer, snacks, bottled water and cigarettes are inexpensive.

Likewise, transport, postal rates and authentic souvenirs are reasonable. Prices are much lower in provincial Russia and you’ll spend almost nothing there, as most food and activities dictated by our itinerary are included. For Moscow, we suggest a comfortable budget of around 20-30 a day to cover food, drinks and expenses such as souvenirs.

Do I have to leave tips?

Tipping is quite common at all destinations where we operate our tours. Please find below some guidance.

Restaurants - although you normally will not find any service charge in your restaurant bill, many visitors do leave tips to show appreciation for a job well done and this is certainly acceptable. Such gestures are voluntary and at the sole discretion of the visitor.

Excursions - tipping a guide is completely at your discretion. If you really liked the service and guide’s knowledge we recommend EUR 5 per person per day. Please note, this figure is just a guidance, the final amount is entirely up to you.