The Russian capital played a special role at the FIFA World Cup 2018. Moscow launched the Championship and ultimately became the place where a team lifted the coveted World Championship trophy.
The Moscow Mundial showcased the best that Russia has accumulated throughout its history, including:
- World-class tourist and sports facilities
- Historical landmarks and cultural attractions
- Modern infrastructure and transportation options
In this guide, we also cover how to rent a car in Moscow for visitors exploring the city.
FIFA World Cup 2018 Moscow Match Schedule
Moscow hosted football teams at two world-class stadiums: the legendary Luzhniki Stadium and Spartak Stadium (Otkritie Arena). Together, these venues held 12 World Cup 2018 matches, including 8 group stage games and 4 knockout rounds culminating in the final.
Group Stage Matches at Luzhniki Stadium
- June 14 (Thursday, 5 p.m.): Russia vs Saudi Arabia – Group A (Opening Match)
- June 17 (Sunday, 6 p.m.): Mexico vs Germany – Group F
- June 20 (Wednesday, 3 p.m.): Portugal vs Morocco – Group B
- June 26 (Tuesday, 5 p.m.): France vs Denmark – Group C
Group Stage Matches at Spartak Stadium
- June 16 (Saturday, 4 p.m.): Argentina vs Iceland – Group D
- June 19 (Thursday, 3 p.m.): Poland vs Senegal – Group H
- June 23 (Saturday, 3 p.m.): Belgium vs Tunisia – Group G
- June 27 (Wednesday, 9 p.m.): Serbia vs Brazil – Group E
Knockout Stage Matches in Moscow
The following playoff matches were held at the Luzhniki Stadium:
- July 1: Round of 16 – Runner-up of Group A vs Winner of Group B
- July 10: Semi-final match
- July 15: The FIFA World Cup 2018 Final
The Spartak Stadium hosted a Round of 16 match on July 3, featuring the winner of Group H against the runner-up of Group G.
How Moscow Prepared for the World Cup 2018
The Russian capital underwent significant transformations ahead of the Mundial. Key changes included:
- Bilingual street signs: All major streets displayed names in both Cyrillic and Latin characters
- Improved road infrastructure: Enhanced access roads to stadiums and more comfortable driveways
- Trained volunteers: Multilingual, active individuals ready to assist visitors with navigation and information
- Hotel staff training: Staff learned football terminology in multiple languages
- Fan accommodation zones: Budget-friendly lodging options for supporters
The “Moscow Metro” mobile application featured a dedicated World Cup 2018 section offering:
- Stadium information and contact details
- Shortest routes to match venues
- Match schedules and live results
- Availability in six languages: English, French, Spanish, Chinese, German, and Portuguese
Luzhniki Stadium: Moscow’s Iconic World Cup Venue
The reconstruction of Luzhniki Stadium began in 2014, transforming it into a world-class sporting venue. The $350 million renovation brought numerous improvements:
Key Features of Luzhniki Stadium
- Increased capacity: Expanded from 78,000 to 81,000 spectators
- Optimized viewing angles: Stand inclination redesigned for closer proximity to the pitch
- Extended canopy: Weather protection expanded by 11 metres
- Improved crowd flow: Additional exits to prevent long queues
- Observation deck: Free public access outside match days
- High-tech LED roof: Displays match scores, team lineups, and highlights
- Modern natural grass surface: State-of-the-art playing field
- Heating systems: Both field and stands equipped for winter matches
- Latest communications technology: Enhanced connectivity throughout the venue
The Luzhniki continues to serve as Russia’s main sports park. Unlike other World Cup venues, it does not function as a home arena for any Moscow football club, as FC Spartak built its own stadium and FC CSKA completed construction of their dedicated home ground.
Spartak Stadium (Otkritie Arena): Moscow’s Modern Football Arena
Built in 2014 at a cost of 14 billion roubles, this impressive venue officially opened on September 5, 2015. The stadium was constructed on the site of the former Tushino Airport in northern Moscow.
Spartak Stadium Specifications and Features
- Capacity: 45,000 spectators
- Ownership: Businessman Leonid Fedun
- Playing surface: Natural Danish grass that remains evergreen year-round
- Lighting system: Special lamps simulating sunlight for optimal grass growth
- Undersoil heating: Advanced field heating system
- Unique landmark: “The Starostin Family” monument near the fan sector
Following the World Cup 2018, the stadium returned to its role as FC Spartak’s home arena. During the tournament, it was simply called “Spartak” since the commercial “Otkritie Arena” name could not be used due to FIFA advertising regulations.
The sports complex also includes a Minor Arena – an indoor venue with 12,000 capacity for all-weather matches.
The stadium development brought significant infrastructure improvements to the area, including the new Spartak metro station in Tushino, enhancing the region’s potential as a recreational and entertainment hub.
How to Rent a Car in Moscow: A Complete Guide
While Moscow residents typically use private vehicles or public transport, visitors often prefer the flexibility of car rental. Renting a vehicle without a driver is straightforward and available throughout the city.
Top Car Rental Companies in Moscow
- Troika: Market leader with four Moscow offices, offering vehicles no older than 2 years
- Hertz: International brand with four Moscow locations
- Avis: Four affiliated offices across Moscow
- Europcar: Reliable international service
- Pilot-auto: Trusted local provider
- Rentmotors: Wide selection of vehicles
- Avtorentovik: Local service with trucks and chauffeur options
What to Expect When Renting a Car in Moscow
- Pricing: From approximately 1,700 roubles per day for economy vehicles
- Vehicle options: Economy, mid-level, business class, premium cars, minivans, and offroaders
- Insurance coverage: CDW, TP, and TPL typically included
- Pickup locations: Delivery to any address, airports, or railway stations
- Booking: 24/7 online rental available on company websites
Required Documents for Car Rental in Moscow
- Valid passport
- National driver’s license
- International Driving Permit (IDP) – mandatory for foreign visitors
Do You Need an International Driving Permit for Moscow?
Important: Without an International Driving Permit, you are not legally permitted to drive a rental car in Moscow or anywhere else in Russia.
If you don’t yet have an IDP, click here to apply online. This essential document enables you to drive confidently not only across Moscow but anywhere in the world.
Published May 18, 2018 • 5m to read
