When to go & weather

Weather

Moscow's continental climate enjoys five seasons: spring, summer, autumn, winter - and Russian winter. The deepest, darkest part of winter is undeniably cold, but if you are prepared, it can be an adventure. Furs and vodka keep people warm, and snow-covered landscapes are picturesque. A solid snow pack covers the ground from November to March. The lowest recorded temperature is -42°C, although it's normally more like -10°C for weeks on end. Occasional southerly winds can raise the temperature briefly to a balmy 0°C. Daylight hours during winter are very few.

During the spring thaw - late March and early April - everything turns to mud and slush. Summer comes fast in June, and temperatures are comfortable until well into September. The highest recorded temperature is 39°C, although on a humid August day you'll swear it's hotter than that. July and August are the warmest, wettest months.

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