The Moscow Central Circle (MCC), also known as the MCC Ring or Кольцевая железная дорога (Kolcevaya Zheleznaya Doroga), is a modern rail system that forms a loop around Moscow’s city center. The MCC is an excellent choice for both locals and tourists, providing a convenient and quick way to travel around the city and connect to the Moscow Metro, while also offering scenic views of the city. Whether you are commuting or sightseeing, here’s everything you need to know about taking the Moscow Central Circle train.
1. What is the Moscow Central Circle (MCC)?
The MCC is a modern railway line that runs around Moscow, offering easy access to neighborhoods and districts not covered by the Metro. It is an important part of the Moscow Railway network and complements the existing metro system by providing another layer of connectivity across the city. The line runs along a 16-station loop, covering a wide range of areas, including downtown, industrial zones, and residential areas.
Key Features of the MCC:
- Loop Route: The MCC runs in a loop, connecting several major areas of Moscow, including central districts like Kievsky, Kurskaya, and Luzhniki.
- 16 Stations: It has 16 stations, many of which are connected to metro lines and other transport options, making it an excellent alternative for bypassing city traffic.
- Train Frequency: The trains run frequently, with departures every 5–10 minutes, depending on the time of day, making it a reliable option for quick travel around the city.
2. How to Buy Tickets for the MCC
Buying tickets for the MCC is simple, and you have several options depending on your travel needs.
Ticket Options:
- Single Ride Ticket:
- Cost: A one-way ticket for the MCC typically costs 50 rubles for a short distance.
- Where to Buy: You can purchase single-ride tickets from ticket machines located at all MCC stations or from ticket counters.
- Troika Card:
- If you plan to travel on the MCC frequently, the Troika card is a great option. This contactless smart card works across Moscow’s public transport system, including the metro, buses, and the MCC.
- Cost: The Troika card itself costs 50 rubles, and you can load it with funds for multiple rides or unlimited travel.
- Payment: Tap your Troika card at the turnstiles to enter and exit the stations.
- Unlimited Travel Passes:
- MCC-only Travel Pass: If you plan on using the MCC exclusively for your travel, there are unlimited travel passes available for one day or multiple days.
- Price: A 24-hour unlimited MCC pass costs around 150 rubles.
- Where to Buy: These passes can be bought at ticket counters or via ticket machines at the stations.
- Mobile Payment (via Moscow Transport App):
- You can also use the Moscow Transport app on your smartphone, linked to your bank card or Apple Pay/Google Pay accounts. Simply tap your phone on the card reader at the station entrance to pay for your ride.
Ticket Purchase Locations:
- Ticket Machines: Located at all MCC stations, these machines allow you to buy single-ride tickets and load your Troika card.
- Ticket Counters: At larger stations, you can buy tickets or ask for assistance from station staff.
- Mobile App: You can pay via the Moscow Transport app for contactless entry with your phone.
3. MCC Train Stations and Connections
The MCC’s 16 stations are strategically located around Moscow, allowing you to connect with major metro lines, other train routes, and popular areas. Many stations also offer easy transfers to the Moscow Metro.
Key Stations on the MCC:
- Kievskaya: Located near the Kievsky Railway Station and connected to the Kievskaya Metro Station on the brown Circle Line (Moscow Metro).
- Kurskaya: A key transfer station that connects the MCC with the Kurskaya Metro Station on the Circle Line.
- Luzhniki: Close to the Luzhniki Stadium, making it ideal for visitors attending sporting events or concerts.
- Begovaya: Offers easy access to the Begovaya district and connects to the Tverskaya metro area.
- Olimpiysky: Close to the Olimpiysky Stadium, this station is a prime stop for tourists visiting cultural and sports venues.
- Paveletskaya: Another important station, connected to the Paveletskaya Metro Station, offering access to the Paveletsky Railway Station and the aeroexpress to Domodedovo Airport.
Key Metro Connections:
- Many MCC stations offer easy access to Moscow Metro lines, making transfers between metro and MCC trains fast and convenient.
- For example, Kievskaya connects with the Circle Line (brown), while Kurskaya offers a transfer to the Circle Line (brown) and Komsomolskaya to the Red Line (Line 1).
4. How to Ride the MCC Train
Taking the MCC train is straightforward and very similar to using the metro. Here’s a step-by-step guide to riding the train:
Step 1: Buy a Ticket or Use Your Troika Card
- Choose one of the payment methods mentioned above (single ride, Troika card, mobile payment) to purchase a ticket.
- Swipe your Troika card or tap your smartphone on the card reader at the station entrance.
Step 2: Enter the Station
- The turnstiles at MCC stations are similar to those at metro stations. After tapping your ticket or card, the turnstiles will open for you to pass through.
Step 3: Wait for the Train
- MCC trains arrive frequently (every 5-10 minutes during peak times). The platforms are equipped with signs indicating the direction and train intervals.
- Trains are modern and comfortable, with clear signs and announcements in both Russian and English.
Step 4: Ride the Train
- Once the train arrives, board and find a seat. The MCC trains are generally spacious and air-conditioned. They offer a comfortable ride with large windows providing good views of Moscow’s surroundings.
Step 5: Exit at Your Destination
- As you approach your destination, watch for the station names on the digital displays inside the train.
- At your destination, tap your Troika card or mobile app on the turnstile to exit the station.
5. MCC Train Timetable and Frequency
- Operating Hours: The MCC operates from 5:30 AM to 1:00 AM, making it a reliable choice for both early morning and late-night travel.
- Train Frequency: During rush hours, trains run every 5-6 minutes. Outside of rush hours, expect a 7-10 minute interval between trains.
6. MCC Benefits for Tourists
- Scenic Views: The MCC offers a more relaxed ride than the metro, with panoramic views of Moscow’s urban and green spaces.
- Easy Transfers: Convenient transfers to the Moscow Metro make it a seamless way to travel across the city.
- Quick and Reliable: The trains are fast and avoid road traffic, making it an efficient way to travel around Moscow.
7. Tips for Tourists
- Plan your route: Use apps like Yandex Maps or Google Maps to find the best connections and routes involving the MCC.
- Crowds: During rush hours, trains can be crowded, so if you’re traveling with luggage or need a seat, try to travel during off-peak times.
- Keep your ticket handy: Always keep your Troika card or single ride ticket with you in case of random ticket inspections.
Conclusion
The Moscow Central Circle (MCC) is a modern, efficient, and comfortable way to travel around Moscow, offering scenic views and easy connections to the metro and other parts of the city. Whether you are a tourist exploring Moscow or a local commuting to work, the MCC is a great option for traveling around the city. By purchasing a Troika card, using mobile payment, or opting for a single ride ticket, you can easily enjoy all that the MCC has to offer.
