Places to exchange currency in Russia

I never exchange large sums at Sheremetyevo or Domodedovo airports - their counters are overpriced. Instead, I use a Sberbank ATM in arrivals. It works with Visa and Mastercard, though foreign sanctions sometimes complicate things. In Moscow and St. Petersburg, city exchange bureaus offer better rates for USD or EUR. I usually withdraw around 10,000 RUB at the airport, then use cash for taxis and restaurants. Most mid-range hotels accept cards, but small purchases are still cash-based.

At Moscow and St. Petersburg airports, exchange counters exist but the rates are usually poor. I withdraw rubles from Sberbank or VTB ATMs, which are reliable. I normally grab 5,000 RUB on arrival for taxis and food, then do the rest in the city. Many cafés and supermarkets accept cards, but smaller kiosks or taxis may want cash. Exchange counters in the city center, especially near Nevsky Prospekt or Arbat, have better rates than the airport.

Landed in Pulkovo, saw the rates at the Travelex booth, and noped out fast. Exchanged just €20 for snacks and the bus. Found a money exchange in Nevsky Prospekt later that gave me way more rubles. Airport counters are highway robbery. Just grab enough for transport and do the rest in the city-easy.

I always carry a Wise card and used it at a Sberbank ATM near my Airbnb in Moscow. Airport exchanges were giving around 10% worse rates. Even with my home bank’s withdrawal fee, it was still cheaper to use the ATM in town. Unless you're arriving super late or in a small airport, I’d avoid changing much at arrival.

Exchanged about $50 at Domodedovo just to cover a cab and SIM. It was overpriced, but I didn’t want to risk being stranded. Found a much better rate at a place near Arbat the next day-they didn’t even ask for ID. If you land late, airport exchange might be your only option for quick rubles. Otherwise, wait till you're in the city.