The overall network of public transportation provided by buses, trolleys, the marshrutka – a mini-bus with a set route but no designated stops – and the Moscow metro, is such that it is possible to live quite comfortably in Moscow without a car.
Most public transportation operates from 6 a.m. to 1 a.m., providing only a small window in which you cannot take advantage of it. Metro trains run in 90-second to 6-minute intervals, depending on location and time of day. Buses and trolleys usually run in 3- to 15-minute intervals at most. Because of the frequency of intervals, set schedules are typically not provided beyond the approximate interval and the last bus and first bus of the day.
The metro provides quick and easy access to almost every part of the city. Above-surface transportation such as buses and trolleys face the same problems as cars during rush hour, but still provide the benefit of a very thorough network that allows you to get practically anywhere.
Most metro cars and trolleys are fairly old, while buses and marshrutkas may be old or new. All are kept fairly clean, although problems with cleanliness may occur in the metro at times. The metro is patrolled regularly by security, including late at night. Problems with cleanliness or unruly passengers can be addressed directly to metro staff.
If you plan to use all methods of public transportation, you can purchase a monthly all-transport pass for 1700 RUR in any metro station. Note this excludes some privately operated transportation, such as marshrutkas.
