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Igor Tabakov / MT
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The ruble is the only legal currency in the country.
Exchanging currency
Rubles can be bought at any exchange point or retail bank branch. Exchange points are numerous in Moscow and other large cities and are usually located close to retail trade outlets and metro entrances.
In rural areas, banks serve as the primary and sometimes the sole source for currency exchange.
Make sure you bring dollar and euro bills that are in good condition when visiting. As a rule of thumb, Russian exchange clerks usually do not accept worn, marked or defaced bills.
ATM Machines
ATM machines are common at retail bank outlets and major hotels. They are also found at shopping centers, supermarkets, gas station chains and at metro entrances.
Avoid stand-alone ATMs when possible. They are more prone to be tampered with. ATMs in banks or hotels are good options.
Credit and Debit Cards
Many places in Moscow and other cities accept plastic cards and the number continues to grow.
It is a good idea to check in advance before leaving without cash.
Prices
Moscow is ranked as the world’s most expensive city by some surveys due to its recent property boom. Prices are very high in first-class hotels and stores.
However with some effort, it is not difficult to find places that are reasonable in prices. It helps to know Russian or, even better, to know people who know Russian without a foreign accent.
The contrast in prices between metropolitan and rural areas can be quite sharp and sometimes quite alarming. Export-orientated economies have higher standards of living than agricultural regions.
Getting Cash from Abroad
American Express (web site with contact information) and Western Union (web site) have offices in Russia. Russian banks can also facilitate cash transfers.
Western firms usually have English-speaking personnel, but not always.
