The first consideration for most visitors coming to Russia is, of course, the weather. Everyone knows that Russia is cold, but Moscow is not Siberia or the far North and, apart from the occasional cold snap when temperatures can descend below -20 ºC, the winter is quite bearable if you come equipped. And it's worth bearing in mind that the cultural life of the city is less active during the more popular summer months.

Moscow winter

In winter, which lasts from mid-November to mid-March, the temperature averages about -8 ºC, and there is plenty of sunshine to stave off the symptoms of SAD. Moscow is probably at its most characteristically beautiful after a good heavy snowfall, when the white stuff turns the hectic city into a hushed and happy playground, especially when the first snows settle in November. Provided you wrap them up warm, this is an excellent time to come with children, and there are plenty of opportunities to go sledding or skating, or just enjoy the magical atmosphere in the historic center.

25 December is a working day in Russia - the Orthodox Christmas is celebrated on 6 January - and New Year is the big winter holiday. Celebrations are taken seriously, and continue on and off right up to the Orthodox New Year (13th January). If you have friends or family here, this a great time to come and see them, but otherwise you may feel a little bit left out of this not very public holiday.

Essential clothing in winter includes hat, scarf and gloves, thick socks and winter boots, plenty of layers and a genuinely warm coat - many Russians now are switching from more traditional furs and sheepskins to synthetic padded coats, but they do need to be of equivalent warmth to their natural predecessors. Bear in mind that, while it's cold on the street, indoors it's normally well above "room temperature", so unless you're planning to spend the whole day outside you're better off with things that can be easily taken off and put back on again. Thermal underwear is not necessarily the best bet.