Ordering a taxi in Russia is quite simple, but knowing the right method can make the experience much more convenient, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the local process. Whether you’re in Moscow, St. Petersburg, or another city, there are several ways to order a taxi. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process.
Step 1: Choose a Taxi Service
There are several ways to book a taxi in Russia. The most common methods are:
- Mobile Apps: The most convenient way is through mobile apps, which are widely used in Russia. Popular apps include:
- Yandex.Taxi: Russia’s most popular taxi app.
- Gett: Another app that is widely used in major cities.
- Uber: Uber operates in Russia, but it is often integrated with Yandex.Taxi in some cities.
- Taxi Stands: In busy areas, you’ll find taxi stands where taxis are waiting for passengers. These are usually at major transportation hubs, shopping centers, or airports.
- Calling a Taxi Company: Some people still prefer calling a local taxi company directly to book a ride.
Step 2: Using a Taxi App
a) Download the App Start by downloading a taxi app. The most popular ones in Russia are Yandex.Taxi and Gett. You can find them on the App Store or Google Play Store. If you don’t speak Russian, you can change the language in the app settings to English for easier navigation.
b) Register an Account After downloading the app, you’ll need to create an account. This usually involves entering your phone number and setting up payment options (credit or debit card). It’s recommended to have a Russian phone number to ensure smoother registration, but international numbers are accepted in most cases.
c) Enter Your Destination Once registered, open the app and enter your destination address in the search bar. You can either type the address or use the map to pin your location. The app will show the most accurate route and price estimate.
d) Choose the Type of Ride Taxi apps allow you to choose the type of ride:
- Economy: The cheapest option, suitable for most city rides.
- Comfort: Offers more space and a higher standard of service.
- Business: For premium services.
- Minivan: Ideal if you have more luggage or are traveling with a group.
e) Confirm the Ride After selecting the ride, confirm the details and book the taxi. The app will display the estimated time for the driver’s arrival. You can also track the ride’s progress in real time.
f) Payment Once the ride is completed, payment can be made through the app via card or other integrated methods. Cash payment is less common in Russia for taxis booked through apps but is still an option with some services.
Step 3: Using a Taxi Stand or Street Hail
a) Taxi Stands In some cities, especially in larger ones like Moscow or St. Petersburg, you’ll find designated taxi stands. These are usually located near public transport hubs, airports, or train stations. At these stands, you can find taxis waiting for passengers, and they typically operate on a metered fare system.
b) Street Hail If you’re on the street, you can hail a taxi directly. This method works well in busy areas but isn’t as common as using an app or taxi stand. It’s important to be cautious and make sure the car is a legitimate taxi. Look for the yellow taxi sign and check if the vehicle has a visible meter or the taxi company’s logo.
Step 4: What to Expect During Your Ride
- Driver’s Details: If you’ve booked through an app, you’ll see the driver’s name, photo, and car details before the ride starts. You can also track their route.
- Safety: Ensure that the driver follows traffic laws and has a valid driver’s license. If you feel uncomfortable, you can always cancel the ride and choose another taxi.
- Language Barrier: Many drivers may not speak English, so it’s helpful to have your destination address written down in Russian or use translation apps to communicate if needed.
Step 5: Tips for Tipping and Payment
- Tipping: While tipping isn’t mandatory, it’s appreciated in Russia. It’s common to leave around 10% of the fare if the service was good.
- Payment: If you’re using a taxi app, payment is usually handled through the app. For taxis hailed from the street or at taxi stands, you will likely pay with cash, but cards are accepted in some taxis as well.
Step 6: Alternative Transportation Options
- Public Transport: If you’re on a budget, Russia has an extensive public transport system, including metro, buses, and trams. These are much cheaper than taxis, but less convenient if you need to travel directly to your destination.
- Car Rentals: Renting a car in Russia is another option, but driving in busy cities can be challenging, especially for foreigners unfamiliar with local traffic rules.
Important Things to Remember
- Legitimate Taxis: Always make sure you are getting into a legitimate taxi. If in doubt, book through an app or use a known taxi company. Avoid unmarked cars offering rides on the street.
- Language: Knowing some basic Russian phrases can be helpful, especially when interacting with drivers who might not speak English.
- Payment Methods: Be sure to check whether the taxi accepts card payments or if you’ll need cash. Most taxi apps will allow you to pay by card (MIR).
Conclusion
Ordering a taxi in Russia is simple and convenient, especially if you use one of the popular taxi apps. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll have a smoother experience, whether you’re traveling in a major city or a smaller town. If you’re new to Russia, it’s a good idea to get familiar with local taxi services and download the necessary apps to make getting around easier.
