Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO) Traveler Essentials

Terminals: Terminals B and C (Aeroflot domestic hub, connected by underground passage), Terminal D (Aeroflot long-haul international, best facilities), Terminals E/F (other airlines), Terminal Pushkin (newest, some carriers). Allow significant time for inter-terminal connections.
Distance to city: 29 km / 35 min by Aeroexpress train to Belorussky Station

Overview

Sheremetyevo is Russia's busiest international airport and Aeroflot's hub, handling 45+ million passengers. The airport has multiple terminals ranging from the Soviet-era B/C to the new Pushkin terminal (opened 2020), one of Russia's most modern facilities. Note: western airlines have significantly reduced or suspended Moscow operations since 2022.

Transport to city center

Aeroexpress Train to Belorussky station (35 min, RUB 500) — reliable and comfortable. Taxi: RUB 1500–3000, 45–90 min. Yandex Taxi app. The Aeroexpress is the clear best option.

Wi-Fi

Free WiFi at Sheremetyevo requires identity verification — you'll typically need an SMS code to a working mobile number to get online.

Lounges

Aeroflot Business and First Class Lounges in Terminal D (excellent facilities). Sky Priority Lounge, Russian Airlines Lounge. Western credit card Priority Pass access may be limited due to card restrictions in Russia.

Security & customs

Most visitors need a visa arranged well in advance; there's a security screening at the terminal entrance plus the main checkpoint. Immigration can be slow and formal — keep your migration card safe for departure. Standard 100ml liquid rules apply; note that many foreign bank cards no longer work, so plan cash accordingly.

Travel tips

Check entry requirements and your government's travel advisory carefully before planning travel. Russian language knowledge is very helpful — Cyrillic script is used on all signage, though Terminal D has good English. The Aeroexpress train requires a separate ticket from regular Moscow transit.