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Moscow Sheremetyevo Airport
Basics
Sheremetyevo II is located 16 miles (26 km) northwest of the center of Moscow. Most international flights will arrive at Sheremetyevo II. Sheremetyevo I, about 15 miles away, serves domestic flights. Both airports have the same airport code, SVO. Sheremetyevo II's Web site includes:
Maps of the arrival and departure halls
A timetable of flights
Timeless traveler's tips including seat information and a how-to on avoiding the plague
Taxi
The arriving traveler is greeted by a vast crowd of people most of whom are yelling "Taxi!" and trying to get a fare into the city. Unfortunately these renegade taxi drivers are usually dangerous and at best dishonest. It is very wise to steer clear of them. Even the most seasoned traveler will wilt at the scene outside the arrivals area. Fortunately, seasoned travelers arrange transportation.
There is a taxi service outside of the arrivals hall, but it is a nightmare for the arriving traveler. Make sure you fend off all the drivers who approach you on the sidewalk with a "deal." Go to the taxi line. The fare will always have to be negotiated but should be around 728-1020 roubles ($25-$35) to the center of Moscow. Drivers will ask for much more, upwards of 1750 roubles ($60) is not uncommon.
Driver
There are services that you can pre-book that will meet you in the arrivals area and take you to your hotel. You can book these through your host company, tourist agency, or your hotel. Aeroflot has a company called Commonwealth Express (in the USA call 1-800-995-9934) through which you can book a car in advance and prepay. They will send you a voucher to give to the driver when he meets you. The fare is expensive, currently 2100 roubles ($75), but you are paying for security and convenience.
If you have not pre-booked ground transportation and you do not want to deal with the taxi situation, the Intourist Office in the arrivals area of the airport will be of great help. They can arrange a car, and driver, for your trip to Moscow. They can also arrange for a rental car if you so desire.
Hotel Transfer
Another good way to get to the city is to arrange in advance for your hotel to schedule a car to meet you and take you to the city. You will have the comfort of being greeted by somebody and a safe ride to the center. There will be a fee, more expensive than a taxi (about 2400-2600 roubles or $85-90) for this service, but it is worth it for a trouble free ride to your hotel.
Rental Car
Major rental car companies are represented at the airport and some central city offices. Avis, Budget, Business Car, Eurocar, Hertz, and Olga, along with some other local firms are doing business in Moscow. If you are only staying in the center of Moscow you should not rent a car, as parking and the traffic are unbearable. Check out the car and driver services available before you decide to drive by yourself.
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