Route 9 – The Most Historic Line
Route: Lesnaya Street – Round trip, 20 minutes
This is the most historically significant tram route, as it’s the oldest tram line in Moscow, opened 115 years ago in 1899. It’s also the shortest tram route in Moscow, looping around the central area between Belorusskaya and Novoslobodskaya metro stations. The start and end points are at the same station, which is located near Belorusskaya metro, behind the office buildings on Lesnaya Street.
Route 39 / Route 3 – The Most Scenic Line
Route: Chistye Prudy Station to Paveletsky Station, 15 minutes
This is the most scenic tram route. It begins at the Chistye Prudy metro station and travels along Moscow’s Garden Ring Road, passing 19th-century buildings. The tram crosses a bridge over the Moskva River at the confluence with the Yauza River. From the bridge, you can enjoy spectacular views of the Stalinist architecture along Kotel’nichesky Embankment. This area was once home to the Soviet elite, famous for its cultural and artistic residents.
Route 7 – The Most Practical Line
Route: Novoslobodskaya Station to Komsomolskaya Station, 25 minutes
This route offers a glimpse into everyday life in Moscow. Starting from the Novoslobodskaya metro station,the tram heads towards Komsomolskaya Station, showcasing what the heart of Moscow looks like today. Along the way, it stops at notable spots such as the Dostoevsky Museum, the Russian Army Theater, and the Durov Animal Theater. It also passes by Moscow’s largest mosque, near the Olympic Sports Complex, and continues onto Gilyarovsky Street, heading towards Triumfalnaya Square. This route provides a true feel of Moscow’s vibrant city life.
Additional Tips for Tram Rides in Moscow:
• Tram Tickets: You can buy tickets at the tram stop or use the “Troika” card, which is widely used for public transport in Moscow. Make sure to check if you need to validate your ticket once on board.
• Timings: Trams run frequently, but it’s always a good idea to check the schedules online or at the tram stop for the latest information. Routes 39 and 7 typically operate during the day, while Route 9, being shorter, has more frequent trips throughout the day.
• Best Time to Ride: To fully enjoy the views, it’s best to take these trams in the daytime, especially on clear days when you can capture the stunning architectural landmarks and scenic spots.
• Enjoy the Journey: The trams offer a unique opportunity to see both the historical and modern aspects of Moscow. They’re a great way to enjoy a relaxing tour through some of the city’s most iconic districts.
These tram routes provide an excellent way to explore Moscow’s rich history and vibrant urban life, all while enjoying the charm of one of the city’s most nostalgic modes of transport.