Moscow Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO) – Complete Travel Guide 2026

Sheremetyevo International Airport quick facts

Sheremetyevo International Airport serves as the primary hub for Aeroflot and a major gateway into the Russian Federation. With four active passenger terminals divided into two distinct geographical clusters, the airport handles massive passenger volumes and offers extensive connections to domestic and international destinations.

Here is what you need to know:

• Location: Mezhdunarodnoye shosse 1, Khimki, Moscow Oblast, Russia, 141400
• Website: svo.su
• Airlines: Serves domestic carriers including Aeroflot, Rossiya, and Pobeda, along with international airlines such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, and Air Serbia
• Terminals: 4 active terminals split into the Northern Cluster (Terminals B and C) and the Southern Cluster (Terminals D and E)

Sheremetyevo International Airport Terminal Map and Layout

Sheremetyevo International Airport features a unique layout divided into two distinct hubs separated by a runway. The Northern Terminal Complex houses Terminal B and Terminal C, while the Southern Terminal Complex contains Terminal D and Terminal E. This geographical split requires specific transfer logistics for passengers connecting between the two clusters.

The terminals within the Northern Complex (B and C) are adjacent to each other, as are the terminals within the Southern Complex (D and E). However, moving between the Northern and Southern hubs requires trains, buses, or taxis, as they are separated by approximately 2 kilometers. All terminals are designed with modern amenities, expansive duty-free plazas, and business lounges.

Navigating Sheremetyevo International Airport Terminals

Terminal B

Terminal B is the flagship domestic terminal and a critical node for Aeroflot and Rossiya Airlines flights within Russia. The terminal spans a massive area of approximately 55,850 square meters and is built around a central hall with a long, single gate pier.

• Airlines: Aeroflot (Domestic), Rossiya Airlines (Domestic), Pobeda (operational in certain scenarios).
• Key Features: Terminal B houses the inter-terminal underground train station connecting to the Southern terminals. It features a large domestic duty-free area, a wide array of Russian souvenir shops, and the well-regarded Kandinsky and Rublev lounges.
• Dining and Shopping: You will find a mix of Russian fast-food chains like Kroshka Kartoshka and international coffee shops. The long pier after security includes a centralized arcade with seating areas, though walking to high-numbered gates past 110 can take 12 to 18 minutes.

Terminal C

Terminal C is a modern facility located adjacent to Terminal B in the Northern Complex, primarily dedicated to international flights. The largest duty-free store in the airport recently reopened here following a significant reorganization.

• Airlines: Pobeda (International), Aeroflot (some partner international flights), and various foreign carriers serving Russia.
• Key Features: This terminal features runway-view lounges including Malevich and Chagall. It has 8 jetway-equipped gates and a chapel on the second floor. The terminal connects to Terminal B landside via walking galleries.
• Dining and Shopping: The main duty-free marketplace offers perfumery, alcohol, and international delicacies. The international food court provides halal and vegetarian options alongside European cuisine.

Terminal D

Terminal D is the heart of the Aeroflot international network and a vital SkyTeam hub. A multi-story parking garage connects to this terminal via a pedestrian bridge.

• Airlines: Aeroflot (International), SkyTeam alliance partners, and other international carriers.
• Key Features: The terminal has a sophisticated international transfer corridor on Floor 1 near Baggage Carousel 5 for passengers transferring to domestic flights. It houses numerous lounges including Moscow Lounge, Baikal Lounge, and Gallery Lounge.
• Dining and Shopping: Terminal D offers premium retail options, including luxury Russian brands like Imperial Porcelain and international fashion houses.

Terminal E

Terminal E connects directly to Terminal D and partly to Terminal F (currently closed). It serves as an overflow and supplementary hub for international flights, with 8 jetway bridges.

• Airlines: Aeroflot (select flights), partner airlines, and various charter services.
• Key Features: The terminal features the exclusive Mastercard Lounge and the panoramic Space Lounge on the second floor near gate 39.
• Dining and Shopping: You will find smaller boutique stores and cafes here, but the connection to Terminal D ensures a vast array of options is just a short walk away.

Transportation to and from Sheremetyevo International Airport

Sheremetyevo International Airport sits approximately 29 kilometers northwest of central Moscow. Multiple transport modes, including rail, express buses, rideshare, and private cars, connect the airport to the city, though traffic on the Leningradskoye Shosse can be heavy during peak hours.

Getting to and from Sheremetyevo International Airport by Car

Driving from central Moscow to the airport typically takes 40 to 60 minutes, but the journey can stretch to over 90 minutes during morning and evening rush hours. The M-11 toll highway provides a faster, paid alternative to the congested Leningradskoye Shosse. The airport has extensive parking facilities; a monthly pass for official parking is currently priced at an approximate equivalent of $220, suggesting daily rates for short-term parking are likely around $10 to $15.

Multi-story parking garages connect to Terminals B and D via covered pedestrian bridges, offering a convenient 5-minute walk to check-in. A cell phone waiting lot is available for drivers picking up arriving passengers. Curbside drop-off is permitted directly in front of departures, but vehicles cannot be left unattended, and security strictly enforces a rapid drop-off policy.

Getting to and from Sheremetyevo International Airport by Rideshare or Taxi

Yandex Go is the dominant rideshare and taxi app in the Moscow region and provides designated pickup services at the airport. Other popular local aggregators include Uber Russia (integrated with Yandex) and Citymobil. You must use the official pickup zones on Level 1 of the terminals to book your ride.

For Terminal B arrivals, the designated meeting point is outside Door #2 on the first curb. Fares to the city center are dynamic but typically range from $15 to $30. Payment can be made via the app using a linked card, allowing you to bypass language barriers when negotiating a price. Drivers will rarely accept cash if the ride was booked through an app.

Getting to and from Sheremetyevo International Airport by Public Transportation

The Aeroexpress train remains a reliable link to the city center, departing from the Belorussky Railway Terminal and terminating at a dedicated station within the airport complex. From the Aeroexpress station, a covered pedestrian gallery connects to Terminal B on Level 3.

Alternatively, the express bus route No. 1195 connects the Khovrino metro station (Line 2) directly to Terminals B, C, and D. This service is highly regarded for its accessibility features and new, comfortable fleet. The bus takes approximately 20 minutes via the M-11 toll highway. You can pay with a bank card, a Troika transport card, or via the Aeroexpress mobile app.

Key Amenities at Sheremetyevo International Airport

ATMs

ATMs are widely available throughout all terminals, primarily operated by Sberbank, VTB, and Alfa-Bank. They are located before and after security, dispensing Russian Rubles. Currency exchange counters are equally prevalent, notably in the arrivals halls of Terminals D, C, and B.

Lost and Found

The lost and found service is managed via the official airport contact center. If you lose an item, proceed to the information desk in your arrival terminal or call the main hotline at +7 495 578-65-65 to be directed to the appropriate department.

Luggage services (carts, storage, wrapping)

Baggage wrapping services are available in the check-in halls for approximately $5 to $7 per bag. Luggage carts are free of charge in the baggage claim areas and terminal forecourts. A paid long-term luggage storage facility operates 24/7 within the terminal complex.

Pets

Sheremetyevo International Airport has outdoor pet relief areas located outside the arrivals levels. For travelers in transit, quiet outdoor grassy zones near the terminal entrances serve walking needs, but there are no dedicated indoor pet restrooms post-security.

Showers

Public showers are not located in the main concourses. However, nearly every VIP lounge in Terminals B, C, D, and E offers private shower facilities. Lounges like Gallery, Sochi, St. Petersburg, and Galaxy are well-known for excellent shower suites accessible for a day-pass fee or membership.

Currency Exchange

Multiple exchange booths operate 24/7 in the arrival zones, with additional branches near gate areas. Rates at airport exchanges typically carry a high margin compared to city center banks.

Smoking Area

Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the terminal buildings. Designated smoking cabins are available post-security in specific lounges (like the Chagall Lounge) and in sealed rooms clearly marked near gate areas in Terminals D, E, and C.

WiFi

Complimentary unlimited WiFi is available throughout all terminals. To connect, select the "SVO_Free" network on your device and authenticate via a Russian mobile number or by using the automated call-back service popular in international terminals. Charging stations with universal sockets and USB ports are distributed widely across waiting areas and gate rooms.

Other Amenities

Information desks are staffed 24 hours a day on the first floors of Terminals B, D, and C. A 24-hour medical center is located on the ground floor of Terminal B. An Orthodox chapel is present on the second floor of Terminal E, and a multi-faith prayer room is available in Terminal C.

Airport Lounges at Sheremetyevo International Airport

Sheremetyevo excels in lounge availability, operating one of Europe's most comprehensive networks of VIP spaces. Almost all are open 24 hours and span from basic all-star retreats to premium suites for specific credit card holders.

Airline Lounges at Sheremetyevo International Airport

Rublev Lounge (Terminal B)

• Location: Near gates 105-106.
• Standout Features: Awarded for its elegant interior design, this lounge offers high-quality Russian and international buffet cuisine, a well-stocked bar, and quiet relaxation zones.
• How to Access: Aeroflot and Rossiya business class passengers, Aeroflot Bonus Gold/Platinum elite members.

Kandinsky Lounge (Terminal B)

• Location: Third floor, domestic departures area opposite gate 114.
• Standout Features: Showers, children's play area, full snack bar, and computer workstations.
• How to Access: Grey Wall membership, RUS Priority, Aeroflot business class, or pay at the door ($35-$45).

Moscow Lounge (Terminal D)

• Location: Floor 3, near gate 30.
• Standout Features: A family-friendly space with a dedicated children's area, international news selection, and full buffet.
• How to Access: Pay at the door (approximately $40).

St. Petersburg Lounge (Terminal D)

• Location: Fouth floor near gate 29.
• Standout Features: A premium transit haven offering private sleeping rooms, showers, and conference facilities.
• How to Access: Pay at the door (approximately $45).

Credit Card-Affiliated Lounges

Mastercard Lounge (Terminal E)

• Location: Third floor, opposite gate 38.
• Standout Features: An exclusive sanctuary with premium catering and private work suites separated from the main terminal bustle.
• How to Access: Exclusively for Mastercard World Elite or Black Edition cardholders issued in specific regions.

Priority Pass Lounges at Sheremetyevo International Airport

Priority Pass membership holds significant value here. Nearly a dozen independent lounges accept Priority Pass across all four terminals. Unlike some airports that restrict entry during peak hours, Sheremetyevo lounges generally grant access 24/7. Key participating lounges include Kandinsky, Chagall, Sochi, Galaxy, and Classic.

Other Airports in the Region

Domodedovo International Airport (DME)

• Distance to city center: 42 km south.
• Best for: The south-eastern districts of Moscow and routes to Asia.
• Unique advantages: Known for its airy, glass-heavy architecture and strong point-to-point international carrier presence.
• Recommended for: Flights with S7 Airlines and its Oneworld partners.

Vnukovo International Airport (VKO)

• Distance to city center: 28 km south-west.
• Best for: Government officials, private aviation, and flights to the Caucasus and Central Asia.
• Unique advantages: Features a VIP terminal for heads of state and business aviation, plus the closest metro rail link to Moscow's central ring.
• Recommended for: Low-cost carrier Pobeda (some domestic) and Utair.

Zhukovsky International Airport (ZIA)

• Distance to city center: 40 km south-east.
• Best for: Budget travelers from Central Asia and Belarus.
• Unique advantages: Built on a historic flight test center runway; it's small, uncrowded, and strictly functional.
• Recommended for: Low-cost regional flights, particularly those operated by Ural Airlines.

Sheremetyevo International Airport Overview

Originally built as a military airfield, Sheremetyevo transitioned to a civilian international airport in 1959. It was christened with its first international flight carrying passengers from Moscow to Schönefeld, establishing its role as the Soviet Union's window to the world. Today, it holds the legacy as the base for Aeroflot, Russia's flag carrier.

The airport is located 29 kilometers north-west of central Moscow, straddling the town of Khimki. It remains a fully civilian operation, though it historically shares land with the former Soviet Air Force base. The four operational terminals—B, C, D, and E—support a passenger flow that peaked near 50 million pre-pandemic and has been rebuilding steadily.

Sheremetyevo International Airport Postal Code

• Postal Code: 141400
• City: Khimki
• Province/State: Moscow Oblast
• Country: Russia
• Complete Address: Mezhdunarodnoye shosse 1, Khimki, Moscow Oblast, Russia, 141400

Duty Free and Shopping at Sheremetyevo International Airport

The largest duty-free complex recently reopened in Terminal C with improved visual displays and a refined range. Despite logistical challenges with brand supplies, Sheremetyevo remains a compelling place to buy Russian goods and global luxury items.

For souvenirs, airport prices for Matryoshka dolls and vodka are competitive against city center tourist traps, though amber jewelry generally commands a premium. Shops like Imperial Porcelain offer authentic hand-painted Russian tea sets that are difficult to find elsewhere. Make sure to try the Russian chocolate and candies available at kiosks around the gates—they are affordable and authentic.

Security Wait Times at Sheremetyevo International Airport

Sheremetyevo International Airport operates a modern centralized screening procedure. While recent data suggests a combined total wait time of around 44 minutes with typical flow, this can fluctuate drastically based on the terminal and season. The busiest travel periods are July, August, and December, when wait times can spike by 30% to 50%.

Peak congestion typically hits security lanes between 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM, with a secondary wave between 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM. Tuesdays and Wednesdays generally see the lightest loads. Fast Track lanes are available in Terminal B near the business lounges for premium ticket holders and elite loyalty card members.

Sheremetyevo International Airport Drop Off and Pick Up Information

For departures, the drop-off zone is located on the upper-level roadway directly outside the check-in halls. Drivers must unload quickly as curbside waiting is not permitted, and traffic officers enforce the rules strictly. Vehicles left unattended risk being towed.

Arriving passengers can be picked up at the inner curb on the Arrivals Level (Level 1). For Terminal B, proceed to Door #2 for the standard taxi and private car meeting spot. There is a designated cell phone waiting lot where drivers can park briefly until their passenger is ready, helping to avoid circling the airport loop.

Flight Routes and Airlines at Sheremetyevo International Airport

As the core hub for Aeroflot and the SkyTeam alliance in Russia, Sheremetyevo International Airport commands extensive sovereignty over both domestic and international long-haul travel. Rossiya Airlines also bases a significant number of operations here, while Pobeda optimizes its international budget routes through this airport.

Popular domestic destinations from Sheremetyevo include daily high-frequency flights to Sochi, St. Petersburg, Kaliningrad, Kazan, and Vladivostok. International traffic is exceptionally strong on corridors to Istanbul (operated by Turkish Airlines and Aeroflot), Dubai (Emirates and flydubai), Antalya, and Belgrade. Connections to the Middle East and Asia have seen significant growth in the last two years, with Qatar Airways and several Chinese carriers adding rotations.

Getting to and from Sheremetyevo International Airport

Navigating the transit corridor between Northern and Southern terminals requires planning. The Automated Passenger Transport System (APTS) operates an underground train between Terminal B and Terminals D/E for ticketed passengers. This automated train is the most efficient connection method, bypassing landside road traffic between the hubs.

Car Rental at Sheremetyevo International Airport

Renting a car offers the ultimate freedom to explore the Russian capital and the Golden Ring cities beyond. The main car rental desks are located on the first floor of Terminal B in the arrivals area.

• Available Companies: Sixt, Rentmotors, and local operators like TimRent service the airport.
• Popular Vehicles: Economy compacts are best for navigating Moscow's dense neighborhoods, while SUVs and 4x4 luxury sedans are popular winter choices for icy road conditions.
• Location: Counters are centralized in the Arrivals Hall of Terminal B, with vehicles parked in the multi-story garage.
• Booking: Advance booking is essential during the summer season (June-August) and the December holiday rush. An International Driving Permit is a legal requirement for foreign drivers alongside their national license.

Secure your wheels today: Book your rental car in advance for the best rates and guaranteed availability.

Sheremetyevo International Airport Taxi Services

Yandex Go is the ubiquitous local rideshare service; you can also use BelkaCar for car sharing if you need a short-term rental for the city. Pickup zones are geofenced, so you must physically stand at the marked "Taxi" stands—usually Door #2 at Terminal B—before the app will allow you to request a ride. A standard trip to Red Square currently averages around $18-$22 under normal traffic conditions.

Private Car Services

Wheely offers a premium, fixed-price service targeting business travelers who require English-speaking drivers and luxury sedans like Mercedes-Benz S-class. These can be booked in advance via the app and will meet you inside the arrivals hall with a name board.

Bus Services at Sheremetyevo International Airport

In addition to the express bus to Khovrino metro station, inter-terminal buses run frequently between the Northern and Southern complexes for those without connecting boarding passes. The stops are clearly marked outside the main exit doors. The bus from the parking structure to Terminal B drops off at a transit area inside the multi-story parking lot, from where you take a covered bridge into the terminal.

Hotel Shuttles

Major hotels such as Novotel Sheremetyevo, Park Inn by Radisson, and SkyPoint Hotel provide complimentary shuttle buses. You typically need to arrange these via the hotel directly; the pickup spot is usually at the far end of the arrivals curbside, separate from the taxi zones.

Parking at Sheremetyevo International Airport

All terminals are flanked by multi-story parking structures offering covered, secure parking. Terminal D has a direct pedestrian bridge to its parking garage, and Terminal B features a similar enclosed link. Short-term rates are ideal for drop-offs, while daily rates hover around $12-$15 for 24 hours.

Electric vehicle charging stations have been installed in some covered lots, although they are not yet abundant. Payment is handled at automated pay stations accepting international Visa, Mastercard, and Mir cards, making cash transactions increasingly rare.

Places to explore near Sheremetyevo International Airport

• The Kremlin & Red Square (29 km, 50 min driving): The absolute heart of Moscow. St. Basil's Cathedral and the Armory Chamber need no introduction.
• Vystavochny Tsentr (VDNKh) (20 km, 30 min driving): The Exhibition of Achievements of National Economy. A stunning Stalinist amusement park and museum complex closer to the northern end of the subway line.
• Khimki Forest & Reservoir (8 km, 15 min driving): A quick escape to nature with pine forests and waterfront promenades for a breath of fresh air during a layover.
• Sergiev Posad (80 km, 1.5 hours driving): A Golden Ring city featuring the beautiful blue-and-gold domes of the Trinity Lavra monastery, reachable by highway north from the airport.
• Arkhangelskoye Estate (25 km, 35 min driving): A magnificent 18th-century palace west of the airport, known as the "Versailles of the Moscow Region."

Local Weather and Best Time to Visit Moscow

• Winter (December-February): Cold and snowy. Temperatures range from -10°C to -15°C (14°F to 5°F) but can drop further. Perfect for snow-covered fairy-tale scenes but requires thermal clothing.
• Spring (March-May): Muddy and unpredictable. Early spring is slushy (around 0°C to 5°C / 32°F to 41°F), while May blooms with greenery and temperatures jumping to a pleasant 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F).
• Summer (June-August): The White Nights and best travel season. Warm, with highs reaching 25°C (77°F). Thunderstorms are brief. This is the busiest and most expensive tourist period.
• Autumn (September-November): Golden leaves in parks by late September make it a photographer's paradise. Temperatures drop rapidly from 10°C (50°F) in October to freezing by November.

Essential Travel Tips

👉 Arrival Time: For domestic flights, 2 hours is generally sufficient, but international passengers should always allow a strict 3-hour check-in window due to rigorous border controls.

👉 Flight Status: Track live updates via the official Sheremetyevo app or flight information displays due to occasional seasonal schedule adjustments.

👉 Packing Advice: A sturdy pair of waterproof boots is essential from October to April, when Moscow walkways alternate between slush and ice.

👉 Currency: The Russian Ruble is king. While airport retailers accept cards, small kiosks and city markets may require physical rubles. Have cash for buying snacks at tiny shops.

👉 Language: English signage is prevalent inside the airport, but outside, knowledge of the Cyrillic alphabet is a lifesaver. Download Yandex Translate for offline text translation.

👉 Documentation & Driving: A visa is required for most visitors. If renting a car, your valid national license and a physical International Driving Permit are mandatory. Fuel stations accepting international cards are located on the M-11 highway south toward Moscow.

About the City

Moscow, a metropolis of over 12 million people, stands as a bridge between Eastern history and Western modernity. The city skyline blends golden Russian Orthodox domes with Stalin's "Seven Sisters" skyscrapers and futuristic glass towers. Taste the rich, hearty local cuisine—try borscht soup, pelmeni dumplings, or blini pancakes topped with caviar in a traditional restaurant like Café Pushkin. The Moscow Metro alone is worth the trip, a subterranean palace of marble and chandeliers that efficiently connects you to world-class theaters like the Bolshoi. Beyond the tourist sites, Moscow serves as a dense, energetic base for understanding the vastness of Russia's culture.

Start Your Journey at Sheremetyevo International Airport

Whether you are catching a connecting flight to the far reaches of Siberia or stepping into Russia for the first time, Sheremetyevo International Airport provides a world-class welcome. With its sprawling duty-free plazas and network of relaxing VIP lounges, the airport is far more than a transit point—it is part of the adventure. Ensure your trip beyond the runway is just as smooth: Compare car rental deals now to pick up your keys right from the arrival hall and hit the road straight away.