Russia
Money in Russia: currency, ATMs, cards and tipping
Use Russian rubles (RUB) for most purchases; keep some cash (about 3 % of daily budget) and a debit/credit card for larger payments, but verify card acceptance before you travel.
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Key facts
- Currencycheck
- Russian ruble (RUB)
- Cash necessity
- 3 % of daily expenses
- Typical tipcheck
- 5–10 % of bill, round up
Currency and cash
The official currency is the Russian ruble (RUB). ATMs in cities and larger towns dispense rubles; foreign‑currency notes are not accepted for purchases.
Carry enough rubles for small shops, markets, taxis and tips. A guideline is to have cash equal to roughly 3 % of your daily budget, as card acceptance can be limited in some venues.
- Banknotes: 10, 50, 100, 500, 1000, 5000 RUB
- Coins: 1, 5, 10, 50 kopecks
Cards and ATMs
Most major Russian banks have ATMs that accept Visa, Mastercard and, increasingly, UnionPay. However, sanctions and local bank policies may affect foreign‑issued cards; confirm with your bank before departure.
Debit cards are usually cheaper than credit cards for cash withdrawals. Expect a fee of 1–2 % plus a possible local ATM surcharge.
- Check card compatibility with Russian banks (e.g., Sberbank, VTB).
- Notify your bank of travel dates to avoid blocks.
Tipping in Russia
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. In restaurants, round the bill up or leave 5–10 % for good service. In cafés and bars, rounding up to the nearest 10 RUB is common.
For hotel staff, a small amount (20–50 RUB) per bag or per night is customary. Taxi drivers do not expect a tip, but rounding up the fare is polite.
- Restaurants: 5–10 % or round up.
- Cafés/bars: round up to nearest 10 RUB.
- Hotels: 20–50 RUB per service.
- Taxis: round up fare.
Questions people ask
What currency is used in Russia?
The Russian ruble (RUB) is the official currency; all cash transactions must be in rubles.
Should I use cash or a card in Russia?
Use cash for small purchases and tips, and a debit/credit card for larger payments, but verify that your card works with Russian ATMs before you travel.
How much should I tip in Russia?
Tip 5–10 % in restaurants, round up in cafés and bars, and give 20–50 RUB for hotel staff; taxi drivers usually just need the fare rounded up.
Can I exchange foreign currency in Russia?
Yes, exchange offices and banks in cities accept US dollars and euros. Avoid street changers; rates at banks are fair and safer.
Are ATMs widely available in Russia?
ATMs are common in cities and towns, but less so in rural areas. Carry enough cash when traveling outside major centers.
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Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
- secondaryVoykit – Russia guide
Ask about Russia
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