Renting a scooter in Moscow is a fun, affordable, and efficient way to explore the city, especially during the warmer months. With a growing number of electric scooter rental services available, getting around on two wheels has become a popular mode of transport for both locals and tourists. Whether you’re cruising through the Gorky Park, zipping past Moscow’s iconic landmarks like the Kremlin or Red Square, or just trying to avoid traffic, renting a scooter can be a convenient and eco-friendly way to navigate the city.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of renting an electric scooter in Moscow, including how to use rental apps, find available scooters, and ensure a smooth riding experience.
1. How to Rent a Scooter in Moscow: The Process
1.1. Download the Scooter Rental Apps
The first step in renting a scooter in Moscow is to download one of the major scooter rental apps. Some of the most popular services in the city include:
- Yandex.Go (Yandex Scooter)
- Lime
- Wind
- Hoppy
- BeeRide
These apps allow you to find, rent, and pay for scooters directly from your smartphone. Most of them have English interfaces, making them accessible for non-Russian speakers.
1.2. Create an Account
Once you’ve downloaded the app, you’ll need to create an account. Typically, this requires:
- Phone number verification.
- Payment details, such as a credit card or digital wallet (some apps may also support payments through Apple Pay or Google Pay).
1.3. Find a Nearby Scooter
After logging in, the app will show a map of available scooters nearby. You can easily zoom in on the map to locate scooters in your area. The scooters will be marked with a green dot or icon to indicate availability.
- Check availability: Most rental apps will show you how far the nearest scooter is and whether it’s ready to ride.
- Unlock the scooter: To unlock the scooter, simply click on the scooter icon in the app and follow the instructions to scan the QR code on the scooter. Some apps also allow you to enter a code manually if needed.
1.4. Start Riding
Once the scooter is unlocked, you can begin your ride. Most electric scooters in Moscow are equipped with:
- Speed limits (usually 15 km/h within pedestrian areas).
- Electric braking and accelerator controls on the handlebars.
- Helmet availability: Some apps provide free helmets at designated locations or offer them for a small extra charge.
You can use the app to monitor your ride time, battery level, and distance traveled while on the go. Be sure to check the battery status before starting, as you may want to find another scooter if the battery is low.
1.5. Ending the Ride
When you’re done with your ride, you’ll need to park the scooter in a designated scooter parking zone or near bike racks. Make sure the scooter is parked correctly to avoid fines or penalties.
To end the ride:
- Lock the scooter in the app.
- Follow the instructions to take a photo of the scooter in the correct parking spot, which may be required by the rental service.
- The app will charge you for the ride, based on the duration and distance traveled.
1.6. Payment
- Pay for the Ride: Charges are typically based on a combination of an initial unlocking fee (usually 20-50 rubles) and a rate per minute of use (typically around 10-25 rubles per minute).
- Some services may have flat rates or discounted fares for specific times, such as off-peak hours or short trips.
1.7. Safety and Rules
While riding scooters in Moscow, it’s important to follow the city’s safety rules:
- Always ride on bike lanes or roads when possible.
- Wear a helmet if provided, or bring your own if necessary.
- Be mindful of pedestrians and respect traffic laws.
- Don’t ride on sidewalks or in restricted areas.
Many scooter rental apps also provide in-app safety tips to remind you of the rules.
2. Where to Find Scooters in Moscow
Electric scooters are available throughout central Moscow and in areas with heavy foot traffic. Some popular spots to find rental scooters include:
- Gorky Park and Muzeon Park: Popular spots for tourists and locals.
- Arbat Street: A bustling pedestrian street filled with shops and restaurants.
- Kremlin and Red Square Area: Central landmarks where scooters are widely used for sightseeing.
- VDNKh: A large park and exhibition center with scooters available for easy commuting between the pavilions.
- Moscow Metro Stations: Scooters are often parked near metro stations for easy transfers.
Use the app to locate nearby scooters and check their availability before heading out.
3. Prices for Scooter Rentals in Moscow
The pricing for renting electric scooters in Moscow typically consists of:
- Unlocking fee: Around 20–50 rubles to start the ride.
- Per-minute charge: Typically 10–25 rubles per minute of use, depending on the service and type of scooter.
- Daily or monthly rates: Some services offer flat daily or monthly rates, which can be ideal for tourists planning to use scooters frequently during their stay.
Example:
- A 15-minute ride would typically cost around 150–300 rubles.
- Longer trips, such as an hour-long ride, may cost 300–500 rubles depending on the service.
Discounts and Special Offers:
- Some services offer promotions for new users or discounts for extended rides. Keep an eye on in-app offers and coupons to save money.
4. Popular Electric Scooter Rental Services in Moscow
4.1. Yandex.Go (Yandex Scooter)
- One of the most popular scooter rental services in Moscow.
- Available via the Yandex.Go app, which also supports taxi and ride-hailing services.
- Offers e-scooters with adjustable speed settings and easy unlocking via the app.
4.2. Lime
- A well-known global scooter rental service.
- Lime scooters are found across major cities, including Moscow.
- Offers a simple app interface and a large fleet of electric scooters available for rent.
4.3. Wind
- Known for scooter-sharing services in Moscow.
- Simple app interface and affordable pricing.
- Scooters are easy to locate and rent.
4.4. Hoppy
- A local scooter-sharing service in Moscow.
- Provides eco-friendly electric scooters for short and long trips.
- App available in English and Russian.
4.5. BeeRide
- A Russian-based service providing affordable electric scooters throughout Moscow.
- Offers convenient rental options via a user-friendly app.
5. Safety Tips for Riding a Scooter in Moscow
5.1. Wear a Helmet
While not mandatory for all riders, wearing a helmet is recommended for safety, especially when riding at higher speeds or in busy areas.
5.2. Obey Traffic Rules
Always ride on bike lanes or roads, never on the sidewalk. Be respectful of pedestrians and other vehicles.
5.3. Ride Responsibly
Be mindful of other people using the road or path, and always yield to pedestrians. Avoid using your phone while riding to stay focused.
5.4. Check the Scooter Before Riding
Inspect the scooter for damages and ensure it’s functioning properly (e.g., brakes, lights, and battery).
Conclusion
Renting a scooter in Moscow is a quick and fun way to get around, especially during the warmer months. By using one of the popular scooter rental services like Yandex.Go, Lime, or Wind, you can easily explore the city and reach key destinations. Remember to follow safety rules, use the apps for a smooth experience, and enjoy the flexibility that electric scooters offer for exploring Moscow at your own pace. Happy riding!
