tour gander airport

THE 5 BEST Gander Tours & Excursions

Tours in gander.

• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Dolphin & Whale Watching
• Adrenaline & Extreme Tours
• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Budget-friendly
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Beyond Words Tours

2. Gander River Outfitters Inc

3. Whale Watching and Coastal Tour with Seafood Lunch

4. White Cliff Lodge

5. The Axe Shed

What travellers are saying.

• Beyond Words Tours
• Gander River Outfitters Inc
• White Cliff Lodge
• The Axe Shed
• Whale Watching and Coastal Tour with Seafood Lunch

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Stepping inside an artifact: a visit to gander international airport.

What do the Queen of England, Marilyn Monroe, and Fidel Castro have in common? They have all been guests of Gander, Newfoundland!

Many travellers today enjoy direct flights to Europe. But until the 1960s, such flights were not possible. Long before the tragic events of 9/11 and the runaway hit,  Come From   Away  put Gander back on the map, the little town was home to one of the most important airports in the world — Gander International Airport.

Once a heavily-forested area known for great fishing and hunting, Gander’s level ground and proximity to the large and deep Gander Lake made it an ideal spot for an airport which could support both flying boats and landplanes coming across the Atlantic Ocean from Europe. The construction of the airport was completed on October 31, 1939. At the time, it was the largest airport in the world.

Gander Airport - 1938

The construction of the airport was completed on October 31, 1939. At the time, it was the largest airport in the world.

A group of Lockheed Hudson bombers at Gander Airport preparing for departure to England during the Second World War.

While it was certain that landplanes were the future of transatlantic travel, at the time, none could reliably make the journey across the Atlantic while carrying passengers and cargo. As such, the new airport couldn’t yet fulfill its intended purpose — at least from the civilian point of view. As the Second World War raged overseas, Gander was quickly recognized as a strategic location for airbases by military officials from the Canadian, British, and American governments. The airport became a centre for Ferry Command, an operation focused on ferrying bombers and other types of warplanes across the Atlantic to the UK.

A Swedish airliner being serviced at the airport in 1948.

After the war, the boom in commercial air travel had a huge impact on Gander as nearly all commercial transatlantic traffic stopped there for refuelling. The terminal building featured a bar called the Big Dipper (the first 24-hour bar in Newfoundland), a gift shop, and a lunch counter for passengers waiting to board their airplanes for the next leg of their journey. By the end of 1946, the airport played host to approximately 1,000 passengers a day and served eight international airlines. Less than 10 years later, traffic increased to over 400 airplanes a day and around 11,000 passengers every week. The airport welcomed all kinds of VIPs and celebrities, from the Queen of Iran to Frank Sinatra to Albert Einstein. It was a place to see and be seen. It quite rightly became known as “The Crossroads of the World.”

Passengers boarding a British airplane at Gander Airport.

The airport welcomed all kinds of VIPs and celebrities, from the Queen of Iran to Frank Sinatra to Albert Einstein. It was a place to see and be seen. It quite rightly became known as “The Crossroads of the World.”

People waiting in the international lounge of the new terminal. Artist Ken Lochhead’s impressive mural is visible in the background.

On June 19, 1959 — 60 years ago today — a brand-new jet age terminal opened at Gander International Airport. The guests of honour? None other than Queen Elizabeth II herself, along with her husband, the Duke of Edinburgh. The new terminal was defined by its Modernist style and avant-garde art, namely a 72-foot mural by Ken Lochhead called “Flight and its Allegories” and a sculpture by Arthur Price, called “Welcoming Birds.” It truly was the height of glamour in air travel but unfortunately, within only a couple of years, the stop-over for refueling in Gander became unnecessary. Jet airplanes with longer range began to fly direct routes from Europe to North American destinations like Montreal or New York. The Jet Age that held so much promise for the airport town quite literally passed it by, leaving the incredible new terminal frozen in time.

“Welcoming Birds” by Arthur Price — one of the many artworks commissioned by the Department of Transport for new terminal buildings across the country.

The artwork, the furniture, the famous clocks by the escalator — we were basically inside an artifact!

Last year, I heard that tours of the international terminal were sometimes offered. I got in touch with a lovely man named Jerry Cramm, airport commissionaire and guide extraordinaire, and he agreed to take my husband and me on a tour. It was incredible. The artwork, the furniture, the famous clocks by the escalator — we were basically inside an artifact! We visited the ladies washroom, which still features a very 1950s row of seats in front of a long mirror. There was also a small room for feeding babies, complete with the original wallpaper. It was very much like taking a step back in time.

The international lounge at Gander Airport. The glass tunnel separates the domestic and international areas. 

The signature clocks above the escalator.

Another view of the lounge area.

The vanity in the ladies room.

A room off of the ladies washroom for nursing and feeding babies. The original wallpaper is still on the walls and apparently will only be removed when each piece falls off on its own.

Our wonderful guide, Jerry.

Jerry regaled us with many airport tales, from the Queen fixing her hair in the ladies room to showing us where all the aircraft had to park in the wake of 9/11. It was eerily quiet and empty. The three of us and our baby had the place to ourselves. Still, I could really imagine what it might’ve been like in the early 1960s — bustling with people from all over the world, caught up in the magic of air travel in the golden age of flight.

Today, few people know about Gander airport’s incredibly storied history. In addition to domestic flights, the airport is still used for cargo and military aircraft, and still sees around one or two international flights which need to make emergency landings for medical or mechanical reasons. The rise in business and private jet use has been good for the airport, with 20 percent of private jets flying across the North Atlantic stopping to refuel at Gander. Presumably, these refueling stops are far less glamourous than they used to be!

Erin Gregory brings a passion for engaging the public through storytelling to her role as Curator at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum. She strives to deliver historical information in new and interesting ways; she is currently researching how the museum can best utilize gamification to promote its collections and share knowledge with audiences. Erin has curated exhibitions and digital products such as Early Aviation, Life in Orbit, The Starfleet Academy Experience, Ace Academy: Black Flight, Ace Academy: Skies of Fury, and Skies of Fury DX (for Nintendo Switch). Her areas of interest include aviation in the First World War, Canadian airplane manufacturing in the First World War, the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan, women in Canadian aviation, air traffic control in Canada, the Avro Arrow, and the history of human space flight. Erin earned an MA in Canadian History from Memorial University, a BA in History and English from McMaster University, and a post-graduate diploma in Cultural Resource Management from the University of Victoria. In her spare time, she loves baking and decorating cakes, and spending time her family.

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Book A Museum Tour

If you’d like to visit with a tour operation or school/cadet group, please email us at [email protected] with your request.

You may also give us a call to book your tour, 709-256-2923.

Donate Today

Did you know that North Atlantic Aviation Museum is a registered Canadian Charitable Organization?

Your donations will go toward the proposed Ferry Command Memorial Hall. Consider donating today!

The North Atlantic Aviation Museum is conveniently located on the Trans Canada Highway, in the town of Gander, NL. The property is located immediately adjacent (and connected by walking trail) to the Tourist Information Center.

North Atlantic Aviation Museum opened its doors in 1996, and is dedicated to preserving and presenting stories and artifacts highlighting Gander’s role in the development of Trans Atlantic Aviation.

In the spring of 2012, the museum completed extensive interior renovations, creating a modern and professional exhibit, with engaging multimedia displays and a brand new flight simulator.

The exhibit, covering the time period from 1935 to 2001, provides a rich narrative of Gander’s short but fascinating history.

Learn about Gander’s role as an important strategic base during WWII, how the town earned the nickname “Crossroads of the World”, why Gander was known throughout the Eastern Bloc, and finally hear the story of Gander’s unexpected role, in the days following 9/11.

Ferry Command Memorial Hall

Help us “Hangar the Hudson”

The Hudson Bomber is the one of our most prized possessions, and over the years, it has become a symbol of the North Atlantic Aviation Museum. More importantly, the Hudson is a symbol of Gander’s rich aviation and military history, and serves as a testament to all those who served here, and abroad, in the Second World War, especially those who served in the Atlantic Ferry Command.

Our Hudson is one of only a handful left in the world, and currently the only one on external display. For decades, it could be seen mounted in front of Gander International Airport, and was moved to its current location outside the museum in the mid-90s. Although this has allowed the opportunity for the residents of Gander and visitors to see this piece of history at any time, the elements have been taking their toll, and will one day result in a legacy lost.

This is why we need to Hangar the Hudson; to protect and preserve this irreplaceable piece of global and local heritage. This hangar will also serve as a lasting memorial to the Ferry Command.

This project will require a lot of work, and will cost upwards of $5,000,000. Although we will be seeking governmental support, we will first need to raise a significant portion of these funds.

Latest News Releases

The museum will be closed on good friday..

Please be advised that the summer hours for North Atlantic Aviation Museum are winding down. From September 1st to the 29th, we will be open 7 days a week from 9 am to 5 pm. On September 30th our Fall/Winter hours will begin. We will then be open Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm until May 31, 2024. We sincerely hope you had a wonderful summer! Thank you! Museum Management  

Beyond Words Tours

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BEYOND WORDS TOURS (Gander) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Newfoundland Road Trips: Guide to Gander

April 23, 2019 | Home Town Tourist , North America by Melissa Hogan | Canada • Newfoundland | No Comments

Disclaimer: Information is accurate as of time of publication.

If you’ve been paying any attention over the last few years, you’ve heard lots about Gander, Newfoundland. On September 11, 2001, when American airspace was closed, 38 planes landed at Gander International Airport depositing almost 7,000 passengers and crew into the small town. With the population doubling overnight, the town’s residents jumped to action turning schools, church halls, and any other available space into emergency shelters. Some even took strangers into their own homes. Thousands of meals were cooked, and everything from clothing to toiletries donated to help out the “plane people.”

The most amazing thing about the generosity shown by Gander residents, is that they don’t think it’s amazing at all. It was just the right thing to do in that situation, so they did it. Their kindness extended beyond the basic of food, waster, and shelter. Over the five days that people were stranded, Gander residents took passengers sightseeing, moose hunting, berry picking, barbecuing, and hosted kitchen parties. Their spirit inspired an award-winning Broadway musical, Come From Away , that now has companies in four countries.

All that attention is piquing people’s interest in visiting Gander for themselves so I put together a guide to help you have an amazing visit to Central Newfoundland’s Broadway famous town.

Table of Contents

How to Get To Gander

Getting around gander, sinbad’s hotel & suites, quality hotel & suites, country inn cottage, inn on bennett, the gander bread box & cafe, the newfoundland tea co., rosie’s restaurant and bakery, ches’s fish & chips, jumping bean coffee, mystic dining room, legends lounge, thingamajiggers pub and eatery, gander international airport, beyond words tour, meet the flynns, north atlantic aviation museum, beyond the overpass theatre, silent witness memorial, thomas howe demonstration forest, picnic at cobb’s pond rotary park, see a show at the arts & culture centre, festival of flight, quad-a-palooza, the axe shed, will gander be your next newfoundland road trip, book your trip to newfoundland & labrador, related posts.

The town of Gander is located in Newfoundland’s central region, just over 330km from the capital of St. John’s. There are four main ways to get to Gander from off the island:

• Fly into St. John’s and drive or take the DRL bus
• Fly directly into Gander International Airport
• Take the Port-aux-Basque ferry from Nova Scotia and drive 570km east
• Take the Argentia ferry from Nova Scotia and drive 280km northwest

The town of Gander is roughly contained within the triangle of the Trans Canada Highway, Route 230, and Magee Road. There is no public transportation in Gander, though there are taxis for local destinations and some shuttle services that will transport you to St. John’s, Twillingate, or Lewisporte. There is no Uber in Newfoundland. It’s best to have your own vehicle to really get the most out of your visit to Gander.

Tip: book your car rental early as there’s a limited supply on the island and they’re routinely booked up during the busy season from June-August.

Where to Stay in Gander

There are approximately 500 hotels rooms available in Gander itself, with the main hotels located directly on the stretch of highway that runs past town. You will also find motel, B&B, and cottage rental options.

Sinbad’s Hotel & Suites is one of three hotels in town owned by Steele Hotels, a local chain if you will. They offer corporate suites with adjoining living rooms as well as standard bedrooms and efficiency units. The latter have tables and chairs, a small refrigerator and a stove with an oven should you want to cook a little something for yourself. The hotel is also equipped with a business centre, fitness room, and dining room on site.

Check Availability

Honestly, it was a toss up between the Quality Hotel and Choice Hotels sister property the Comfort Inn. Both are located steps from each other and are priced about equally. Both have business centres, fitness rooms, and complimentary breakfast. What swung me in favour of the Quality Hotel was the fact that they have a pool. However, if finding a pet friendly hotel in Gander is higher on your wishlist, then you’ll like the Comfort Inn. You can’t go wrong either way.

If you’re looking for a different experience than your typical hotel, you might want to check out Country Inn Cottage. It’s a two bedroom cottage with a double and queen sized bed, living room area with a flat screen TV, a spacious washroom and full kitchen. They are also wheelchair accessible. It’s located on the site of the Country Inn Motel & RV Park on the north end of town.

If a bed & breakfast is more your speed, Gander has that too. Inn on Bennett is an eight room B&B just a few minutes from the airport. The rooms mainly have queen beds, but there’s one room with two double beds if you’re travelling with a few people.

Where to Eat + Drink in Gander

Come for the freshly baked bread, stay for the touton burger with a side of wedges. Pick up a package of Jam Jams or snowballs for a quick hit of sugar and deliciousness during your day of sightseeing. They also have vegan and gluten free options. Don’t forget to get your “mugshot” by their mug wall.

Here’s what you’re going to do, you’re going to head to Rosie’s Restaurant on Sunday and order up their Sunday dinner, complete with salt beef and peas pudding. Would you believe they even serve up a crustless pizza for those who are on the keto plan? But if you’re a carb lover like myself, you’d do yourself a disservice if you left without trying some of their sweets like lemon meringue pie or their signature “Moose Farts”, tasty little balls made of  graham crackers, coconut, and chocolate chips.

A classic Newfoundland fish ‘n chip shop, Ches’s has 7 locations across the province. Do yourself a favour and order your fish ‘n chips with dressing and gravy on your fries. I also recommend an order of onion rings if you’re particularly hungry. Wash it all down with a pineapple Crush.

Feeling a bit fancier? Get dressed up and make a reservation at Mystic Dining Room at Sinbad’s Hotel. Whether you order the walnut crusted salmon, the bacon wrapped chicken, or one of their steak options, you don’t be disappointed. Order a bottle of wine from their excellent wine list and enjoy fine dining in Gander.

Now, while Legends serves food, that’s not why you’re going to go there. It’s Gander’s nightlife hotspot hosting trivia nights, karaoke, comedy, and live entertainment on the weekends. The lounge is attached to the Irving West Hotel so if you overindulge a bed is within stumbling distance.

If you’re down for a little dive bar pub grub, pop into Thingamajiggers for an affordable and  reliable menu of burgers, wraps, and deep fried seafood. If you want an authentic rural Newfoundland experience and to rub elbows with the locals, this is it. I’d recommend one of their homemade burgers with thick cut fries or the French onion soup served with a homemade roll.

Things to Do in Gander

The tiny airport that inspired a hit musical is also a modernist architectural gem. Gander has had a long history with aviation. During World War II, as the only operative airport in this maritime area, it became the main staging point for the movement of Allied aircraft to Europe. Post-war, it was at the crossroads of transatlantic flights and remained an important refueling stop for many years. Everyone from Hollywood movie stars to pop stars to world leaders touched down in Gander.

In 1959, the Queen of England opened a sleek, modernist International Departures Lounge at the Gander airport. The avant-garde lounge reflected the glamour of midcentury air travel and, though Gander’s importance has faded as jumbo jets can now make the trip without refueling, the lounge remains untouched. A time capsule to a time when flying was exoctic and glamourous.

Many people visiting Gander want to see the places mentioned in the musical, Come From Away, so Gander does what Gander does best and accommodated. The Beyond Words Tour will take you to the Gander International Airport, Gander Town Hall, an exclusive mini exhibit, driving tour around key areas of the town and concluding at the North Atlantic Aviation Museum. You may even get to meet someone who inspired a character in the musical.

Note: Beyond Words Tours have been cancelled for the 2021 season and will be back in 2022.

Continuing with the Come From Away theme, take some time to Meet the Flynns. They played host to 6 “plane people” and Derm Flynn even inspired a character in the musical. Visit the Flynns in their home for a chat and a cuppa and learn more about the 9/11 efforts and Come From Away. Discuss why Come From Away has been so well received by all who see the musical. While in Appleton, visit Twin Towers Steel and Peace Park.

The North Atlantic Aviation Museum is dedicated to preserving and presenting stories and artifacts highlighting Gander’s role in the development of Trans Atlantic Aviation. The bulk of the artifacts, photos, and text focusing on the WWII years through the early jet age. They also have a collection of planes you can explore, including a prized WWII Lockheed Hudson MkIIIA mid-range bomber.

Beyond the Overpass Theatre Company encourages the development of local theatre talent, especially in creating original content related to the town of Gander. Keep an eye out for their production of Diverted, a play with music that juxtaposes the story of Gander’s origins during World War II with specific events surrounding 9/11.

On the morning of Thursday, 12 December 1985, shortly after takeoff from Gander en route to Fort Campbell, Arrow Air Flight 1285 stalled, crashed, and burned about half a mile from the runway, killing all 248 passengers and 8 crew members on board. As of 2018, it is the deadliest aviation accident to occur on Canadian soil. A memorial statue by Kentucky artist Steve Shields was erected at Gander Lake dedicated to the memory of those who lost their life.

This informal, outdoor interpretive site is a demonstration area for people to learn about the forest and forest management techniques in Newfoundland and Labrador. Along with picnic and restroom facilities, the demonstration forest has a network of three interpretive walking trails ranging from .4km – 5km in length. Located on the Trans Canada Highway 1km east of Gander, the hiking is easy-moderate walking depending on the trail you choose.

Have a picnic on the lawn of one of Gander’s most scenic places. Walk the 4km trail or have a swing in the playground. Made up of boardwalk and granular sections, this trail is a light walk. Named after Mr. Alexander Cobb – a worker with the Newfoundland Railway Project in 1892 – the Park is a tranquil area with lots to offer including lunch hour concerts on Fridays during the summer (weather permitting).

The Arts & Culture Centres are a collection of theatres across the province that play host to plays, musicals, comedy, concerts, and more. Peruse their upcoming events and be sure to catch something when you’re in town.

The Festival of Flight is Gander’s annual multi-day summer festival featuring tons of fun, food, and music. Take part in events like a Splash Ball water obstacle course, horseshoe tournament, a demolition derby, the community breakfast, shop at the farmer’s market, or kick up your heels at the kitchen party.

Happening in September, Quad-a-palooza is Newfoundland’s premier ATV event. Enjoy awesome trails, an ATV parade through the streets of Gander, and more. After a day on the trails, come back and enjoy some marvelous food and entertainment with a special accommodation package which includes meals, live entertainment, dances, and great prizes.

Try one of Newfoundland’s hottest new pastimes: axe throwing. It’s not just for lumberjacks anymore. Gander now its own local axe throwing joint. Your new spot for a great time with friends and colleagues. Plaid shirt not required.

Plan to spend at least two days exploring the area, but really three would be better. There’s enough to see and do so I guarantee you won’t be bored.

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Guide to Gander

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Hi, I'm Melissa! I'm a web designer and digital marketer by trade, a newbie gardener, a shoe lover and a travel junkie. The travel bug hit me hard in 2012 and, ever since, I've been attempting to make the most of it while still working 9-5.

I want to inspire you to get out there and see the world, push your own limits and look good while doing it.

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About Melissa Hogan

I'm a web designer by trade, a one-time amateur bellydancer, a shoe lover and a travel junkie. The travel bug has only hit me hard in recent years but I'm attempting to make the most of it while still working 9-5.

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• PARKING & TRANSPORT

OPENING OF THE INT’L LOUNGE

THE SKIES LIMIT WITH A BETTER WAY TO FLY

Gander International Airport’s parking structure is divided into metered and paid lot sections. All parking lots are surface lots (open air) and are security patrolled 24-hours a day by the Canadian Corps of Commissionaires. Metered parking rates are $1 per 30 minutes. A minimum purchase of $1 is required. The meters accept coins only.

Embark on a shopping adventure at Gander International Airport, where retail therapy meets travel convenience. Our airport boasts a diverse selection of duty-free shops, boutiques, and stores. From luxury brands to local souvenirs, you'll find everything you need to make your journey even more enjoyable.

Indulge in a culinary journey at Gander International Airport, where we take your dining experience to new heights. Our airport is a haven for food enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of dining options to suit all tastes and preferences. From quick bites for travelers on the go to gourmet meals for those seeking a more leisurely experience.

Discover the convenience of Gander International Airport through our comprehensive maps. Whether you're a first-time traveler or a frequent visitor, our user-friendly maps are designed to make your airport experience stress-free and enjoyable. Easily locate terminals, gates, services, and amenities.

Top Tours in Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador

Gander tours.

• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Dolphin & Whale Watching
• Adrenaline & Extreme Tours
• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Budget-friendly
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Beyond Words Tours

2. Gander River Outfitters Inc

3. Whale Watching and Coastal Tour with Seafood Lunch

4. White Cliff Lodge

5. The Axe Shed

What travellers are saying.

• Beyond Words Tours
• Gander River Outfitters Inc
• White Cliff Lodge
• The Axe Shed
• Whale Watching and Coastal Tour with Seafood Lunch

How do I get from Moscow airports to the city center?

Moscow with its more than twelve million inhabitants has three international airports. The best known is Sheremetyevo (international abbreviation SVO), which is 35 km northwest of Red Square. Russia’s largest airline Aeroflot has its hub here. The second largest airport, Domodedovo (international abbreviation DME), is about 45 km south-east of the center, from where the S7 airline, which mainly flies within Russia, and numerous international airlines such as Lufthansa take off and land. Finally, there is the third largest airport called Moscow-Wnukovo (abbreviation VKO), which serves numerous low-cost airlines such as Pobeda and is the closest to Moscow city center at just under 30 km.

Aeroexpress to the city center

First the good news – all three airports are easy to reach, both by taxi and by public transport such as train and bus. All three airports are connected to the Moscow city center by means of the so-called Aeroexpress. The Aeroexpress is certainly the most popular and the easiest way for foreigners to get to the center of Moscow. With the striking red signs Aeroexpress, you can find the way to the express trains both at Moscow’s three major airports and at the respective departure stations.

The modern, wifi-equipped trains from the private provider have little in common with the city railway trains from the Russian capital, which still originate from the Soviet era, and run to all three airports from early morning until after midnight. The schedule varies from airport to airport and time of day. As a rule of thumb, trains go to Sheremetyevo and Domodedovo every half an hour during the day to and from the airport, while Wnukowo is only served hourly for much of the day.

The same pricing scheme applies to all three airports: at 300 rubles (around $ 4.50) for a one-way trip, the prices for the trip are significantly more expensive than regular public transport tickets in Moscow, but are still affordable. Sheremetyevo and Vnukovo are each around 35 minutes from the center, and Domodedovo Airport is 45 minutes away.

If you buy the ticket in advance or via the app, there is a 50 ruble discount, further discounts are available if you book a return trip with one ticket, which costs 600 rubles (around $ 8.50). When it comes to value for money, the Aeroexpress trains are certainly the best option as a solo traveler. Especially since bypassing the often treacherous Moscow traffic – in the rush hour a drive by car can take an hour longer than previously estimated.

The biggest disadvantage is that you can of course not go directly to the desired destination within Moscow. However, all three Aeroexpress trains take you to one of the major Moscow train stations, which in turn are connected to the ring line of the Moscow Metro, from where you can quickly reach all corners of the center of Moscow.

Transport connections

• Sheremetyevo Airport -> Belorussky Vokzal (journey time 35 minutes)
• Domodedovo -> Paveletsky Vokzal (journey time 45 minutes)
• Wnukowo -> Kiewsky Vokzal (travel time 35 minutes)

Prices (apply to all three airports in the city and to the airport):

• One-way ticket at the counter = 300 rubles
• Online ticket = 300 rubles
• Round trip = 600 rubles
• Tickets for 10 trips = 2,300 rubles
• Ticket Business Class = 800 rubles

Link : timetables of the Aeroexpress trains to the city center

Link : timetables of the Aeroexpress trains to the airports

In the city or to the airport by taxi app

Alternatively, the transport from and to the airport can also be regulated using the taxi app. Yandex-Taxi and Gett are the two most popular providers in Moscow. At Yandex the flat rate to all three international airports currently costs 1100 rubles ($ 16) and at Gett even only 950 rubles ($ 14) in the cheapest variant, with a small car of the size VW Polo or Ford Focus.

Unless you want to go to the airport with too much luggage or with more than two people, this is certainly the easiest method. Moderate surcharges are required for larger vehicle categories. Without knowledge of Russian, however, it would be much easier to get to the airport by taxi app than from the airport to the city. Due to the confusing location in front of the three major airports, it may be necessary to contact the driver by phone to find the right vehicle. Because the GPS signal of the respective app only gives the location with an accuracy of about ten to fifteen meters – with several lanes running side by side in front of the terminal and dozens of waiting passengers and arriving taxis, it is certainly not always easy to find yourself straight away.

If you are still dependent on the WiFi of the airport building and therefore must not move too far from the entrance, the whole thing could prove to be difficult. From the city to the airport, however, the taxi app without knowledge of Russian proves to be the much easier method. The hotel or AirBnB address can be entered as the pick-up location, and a taxi can usually be ordered within a few minutes.

Moscow trip planned? Here you can find out how to get the necessary visa! !

With the classic taxi into the city

If you want to drive into the city by regular taxi, you have to expect considerable additional costs. The website of Domodedovo airport gives 2,000 rubles as a guide for a trip to the center, i.e. just $ 28. Trips to and from Vnukovo and Sheremetyevo should be a little cheaper. As with the taxi apps, the following also applies here: Especially at rush hour, you should probably prefer the train because Moscow’s streets burst at the seams in the after-hours traffic.

Bus metro combination

For experienced travelers to Russia or visitors with a particularly tight budget, there is still the option of all three airports to get to the nearest metro station by bus or Marshrutka (mini-bus with a fixed route but flexible stops).

From Vnukowo, for example, the 45M minibus line goes to the Yugo-Zapadnaya metro station on the red line № 1 of the Moscow Metro, for just 150 rubles. Together with the 62 rubles ticket for the metro, you can get into the city for just over $ 3.

Sheremetyevo Airport can be reached from the Rechnoy Vokzal metro station on Marshrutka line 949 for 80 rubles, or from Planernaya metro station with Marshrutka 948 for 80 rubles ($ 1.1). The minibuses run approximately every 15 minutes. Domodedovo Airport is connected by express bus to the metro station of the same name every half hour. The fare here is 150 rubles (a good 2,1 $). However, complications must be expected with this transport route – the bus drivers in Moscow usually only speak Russian. Taking the metro or minibuses with luggage is not always comfortable. However, you can save money, especially as a solo traveler.

Alexander Popov

Welcome to Russia! My name is Alexander, I was born in Moscow and I'm a passionate tour guide. I want to share my passion for Russia and my hometown with you. On my website you will find useful information to make your individual trip to Russia as interesting as possible.

The best taxi services in Moscow

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• Moscow Tours

Our 20 Best Moscow Tours of 2022

Join us on an unforgettable tour to Moscow, the capital of Russia. Imagine visiting Red Square, St. Basil’s the Kremlin and more. Moscow is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and one of Russia’s most historical. All of our tours to Moscow are fully customizable and can be adjusted to fit any budget. Our most popular tours are listed below. Please click on the tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page. You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Classic Moscow

This is our most popular Moscow tour that includes all the most prominent sights. You will become acquainted with ancient Russia in the Kremlin, admire Russian art in the Tretyakov Gallery, listen to street musicians as you stroll along the Old Arbat street, and learn about Soviet times on the Moscow Metro tour.

Accommodation

PRIVATE TOUR

A Week in Moscow

This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing.

Weekend in Moscow

This tour is a great way to get acquainted with the capital of Russia if you are short of time. You will see all the main attractions of the city, the most important of which is the Kremlin - the heart of Russia. The tour starts on Friday and can be combined with a business trip.

Group Tour Moscow Break by Intourist

Russia's capital has so much to offer, from the Kremlin and the Metro to the Old Arbat street and the Tretyakov Gallery. Besides these sites, you will also visit a fascinating country estate which today is quite off the beaten path, Gorky Estate, where the Soviet leader Lenin spent the last months of his life.

Kolomenskoye Tour with transport

The history of Kolomenskoye stretches back for centuries. In 1380, Dmitri Donskoi’s army passed through Kolomenskoye on their way to the Kulikovo battlefield, and it was...

Tours by car

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Armory Tour

The Kremlin is truly a fascinating structure, at the same time it is an ancient tower, the city’s former military fortification, a palace, an armory, the sovereign treasury...

Walking tours

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals, Armory, Diamond Fund Tour

Old Arbat walking tour

You will be told of the street’s interesting history and view the street’s artisan culture. You will also have the opportunity to view and purchase souvenirs from the...

Tour to Sergiev Posad with transport

Considered by some to be the Russian Vatican, Sergiev Posad is the temporary residence of the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Trinity St. Sergius Monastery (Lavra)...

Tour to Kuskovo with transport

The Kuskovo Estate often called the Moscow Versailles due to its perfectly preserved French park, is an example of an 18th century, luxurious Moscow summer residence. Its history...

Tour to Tsaritsyno with transport

The Tsaritsyno Estate is located in the southern part of Moscow. The estate was constructed for Catherine the Great by the Russian architects Bazhenov and Kazakov in a romantic...

Moscow Metro and Old Arbat Tour

The Moscow Metro is one of the largest and most grandly built metro systems in the world. It was meant to be a showcase of the Soviet Union’s achievements for both the Russians...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion and vodka tasting)

Vodka is an important component of Russian life, an element of national identity and everyday culture. We invite you to visit the Vodka Museum and feel the atmosphere of long-gone...

Mikhail Bulgakov Apartment Museum

This apartment museum located close to Patriarch Ponds became the prototype of the "bad apartment" described in the novel "The Master and Margarita." Currently the museum's...

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Diamond Fund Tour

The State Museum of Lev Tolstoy Tour

Take this opportunity to learn more about the Russian writer Lev Tolstoy. During the visit to the museum you will see part of a vast collection of exhibits connected to Tolstoy...

Novodevichy Convent Tour with transport

Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure...

City Tour with Visit to St. Basils & Red Sq. with transport

Panoramic City Tour. This Moscow tour is a great start to your trip and the best way to get acquainted with many of the city’s major highlights. Our professional guide will...

City Tour of Moscow

Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous...

Moscow Metro walking tour

Kremlin, Red Square and Cathedrals Tour

KGB Tour with transport

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to...

Soviet and Post-Soviet Moscow Tour

The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened...

Tretyakov State Gallery Tour

This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and...

Jewish Heritage of Moscow Tour

This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion only)

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

Tours to Moscow

Our Moscow tours are land only meaning that you arrange your own air travel to Russia and our expert staff meets you at the airport and handles everything else from there. Our online Airline Ticket booking system offers some of the most competitive rates to Russia available on the web so if you need tickets, please visit our Russian air ticket center . Rest assured that you will be taken great care of on one of our Moscow tours. Express to Russia has a fully staffed office in Moscow that will help to make your visit fun, informative and unforgettable. Please remember that of all these tours are private and can be adjusted to your taste. You can add, replace or skip some sights; you can add more days to the package or cut the tour short. Our specialists will be glad to help you create the tour of your dreams!

Moscow, a City Like No Other

Moscow is Russia’s largest city with a population of between 12 and 13 million. It is also Europe’s largest city and when you visit Moscow, you can feel it. The layout and architecture of the city is eclectic, ranging from crooked, ancient streets and alleyways to wide, bustling boulevards, from medieval churches to Stalin skyscrapers and to modern, glass buildings towering over everything and of course in the center of it all is the Kremlin and the magnificent Red Square. Moscow is also home to a fantastic, efficient and very beautiful metro system – each station having its own special design. In fact, Express to Russia’s Moscow metro tours and excursions are some of our most popular attractions that we offer. On our Moscow tours, you will see this and more.

Moscow Tours centering on Russian History

Moscow has a long and interesting history and has been the capital of Russia in many of its different iterations – capital of the Grand Duchy of Moscow , the Russian Empire and of course the Soviet Union (who could ever forget the Soviet Union?). Moscow, was founded in the 12th century by Prince Yuri Dolgaruki (Yuri of the long arms – he really did have long arms!). From that time on, it was home to the Russian Tsars until Peter the Great moved the capital to St. Petersburg in 1703. The city has survived invasions and sieges from the Mongols, the Tartars, the Poles, Lithuanians and Napoleon but has always persevered. Our Moscow tours will enlighten you on this great history and give you insights into Muscovites and their unique culture. Our Moscow tours show you what the city is like today but also brings to life the past. Moscow never seems to sleep and is bursting with energy. A Moscow tour with Express to Russia is truly the best way of getting to know Russia’s largest and most vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

What is the best time to visit moscow.

Any time of year is fine depending on what you plan to do. Summertime is pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city and its vibrant atmosphere, but Moscow will be much busier and accommodation is more expensive. Winter can be quite cold but beautiful nonetheless, and this is unproblematic if you intend to spend most of your trip in museums and galleries. There are also various festivals and events organised throughout the year. For more information about the best time to visit, read our guide

How many days are enough in Moscow?

If you plan your itinerary strategically and aren’t averse to a packed schedule, you can cover Moscow’s main sights over a long weekend. Most popular attractions are in the city centre, and the Moscow Metro allows you to cover much ground in a small amount of time. Ensure that your accommodation is fairly central and book tickets in advance, so that you can make the most of your days. For an informative and well-organised day out, check out our Moscow day tours with options to suit all interests.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

As Russia’s capital city, tourists are well accommodated in Moscow. There should be English-speaking staff in restaurants, bars, hotels, shops and attractions in tourist hotspots, and there are also English-speaking tourist police. Transport services have English translations on their maps and English announcements via intercom; alternatively, order taxis from the Yandex Taxi app (Russian Uber), though it’s unlikely that your taxi driver will speak English. If you get stuck and cannot communicate, it’s fine to use Google Translate.

Is it safe to travel to Moscow?

It is no less safe to travel to Moscow than to any European city if you exercise common sense and look after your belongings. As with every city some regions can be more unsavoury than others, but no tourist attractions are located there. The traffic in Moscow is notorious, so exercise caution when crossing roads. Do not take unlicensed taxis; book in advance or take public transport, which is widespread and perfectly safe. If you encounter any problems, look for the special tourist police who can help you. For more information, read our guide about staying safe in Russia .

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