Moscow Weather in Winter — What to Expect

Overview

Moscow, Russia — winter turns Moscow into a snow-covered wonderland — bitterly cold but stunningly beautiful, with festive lights and steaming street food. Whether you are planning a holiday or a business trip, understanding the weather helps you pack right and make the most of your time.

Temperature

Daytime highs reach -5°C (23°F) while nights cool to -10°C (14°F). Expect around 1 hours of sunshine per day.

Rainfall

Moscow sees about 50mm of rainfall across 18 days during this period. Rainfall is moderate. The odd shower is possible but unlikely to ruin your plans.

Humidity and Comfort

Average humidity sits at 85%. Combined with the heat this can feel oppressive. Stay hydrated, wear breathable fabrics, and take advantage of air-conditioned spaces during peak afternoon hours.

What to Pack

• Insulated winter coat with thermal base layers
• Warm hat, gloves, and a scarf
• Insulated waterproof boots
• Compact umbrella or light rain jacket
• Comfortable walking shoes suited to the terrain

Best Things to Do

• Walk Red Square under snow and see St Basil's Cathedral illuminated
• Watch a ballet at the legendary Bolshoi Theatre
• Explore the lavishly decorated Moscow Metro stations
• Shop and warm up inside GUM department store's historic arcades

Travel Tips

• Dress for extreme cold: thermal layers, down jacket, and insulated boots are non-negotiable
• Daylight lasts only about 7 hours — plan accordingly
• The Moscow Metro is fast, warm, and beautiful — use it instead of taxis

Quick Summary

---

Plan your trip with the live Moscow forecast on Weather Tomorrow.