aftermarket cruise control ford fiesta

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250-9610 Ford Fiesta 2011-2019 Rostra Complete Cruise Control Kit

This is a complete Rostra Cruise control kit for the 2011-2019 Ford Fiesta. Step by step installation instructions included, and located below. Easy installation with very little disassembly. Cruise switch installs on the plastic shroud that surrounds...

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Ford Fiesta Cruise Control Kit (2010-2016) Rostra - Regular or New Switch

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Fitment Information

• Ford Fiesta 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016 (All)

Specs & Features

The Rostra Cruise Control kit is designed to add a cruise control system to those vehicles which did not come with one from the factory.  You can set your desired speed by using the Rostra cruise control switch that is steering column mounted.  Once you set your speed, the Rostra cruise control measures engine load and vehicle speed to ensure your car stays cruising at the desired speed.  You can slow down or accelerate from your cruise by using ths switch for ease of use. The cruise controls feature set speed, tap up/tap down (1 mph per tap), coast/reduce speed, resume/accelerate, and controlled resume rate.

While most of our customers install these aftermarket kits themselves, we recommend professional install of this cruise control system.

Rostra has been manufacturing these cruise control units for years, and is an ISO9001 certified company that has proven to be one of the largest manufactures of cruise controls in the United States.

Rostra Cruise Control Features:

• 3 Year / 36,000 Mile Warranty from Rostra
• Slow down or accelerate without the pedal
• Increase comfort and reduce fatigue while driving
• Includes full color illustrated installation manual
• Built in an ISO9001 Quality Certified facility

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PRECISION CRUISE CONTROL FORD FIESTA

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The PRECISION CRUISE CONTROL FORD FIESTA is an Original Equipment quality, retrofit Cruise Control System. This particular system is compatible with the following vehicles:

          Ford Fiesta   2002 - 2008 *

          Ford Fiesta   2008 - 2012 ***

          Ford Fiesta   2013 -

           Ford Fiesta   2017 -

          * No plug-in accelerator option available for this car - requires direct wire connection to the accelerator pedal wiring.

          *** Not compatible with 1.4 TDCi engine

PRECISION CRUISE is a retrofit electronic cruise control system that provides all the functionality and convenience of Original Equipment systems, along with many enhanced features. This unit comes pre-programed for your specific vehicle and the full vehicle compatibility list can be found under the compatibility tab above.

Luxury and Convenience

Our PRECISION CRUISE Control Systems take all the stress and frustration out of long distance travelling. Simply activate the Cruise Control and remove your foot from the accelerator pedal for a much smoother and more comfortable driving experience. Should you wish to increase or decrease your speed to suit driving conditions or traffic flow speeds, the cruise control provides the option to increase or decrease your speed by pressing the respective button on the cruise control arm.

Dual Memory Settings

The PRECISION CRUISE Control System features the ability to preset two Cruise speeds in the Cruise memory. This enables you to drive at your most commonly used cruise speeds at the touch of a button, without having to drive to the desired speed first.

Original Equipment Quality Equipment

All of our Cruise Contol Equipment is OE Quality and comes complete with a 'Plug n Play' Pedal Harness to reduce Installation time and cost. Our Universal Cruise Arm (pictured) is an OE Quality Cruise Arm with all the required functionality and performance of original equipment systems. However, there is also the option on certain vehicles to incorporate the Original Equipment Cruise Control Switch for an even more professional installation.

Independent Speed Limiting

The Cruise Control also features the option of setting an Independent Speed Limit. This is controlled via the Universal Cruise Arm and can be activated to prevent the driver from speeding in areas where speed limit restrictions are enforced. The Cruise control can still be used independently below this limit. Please note that this facility is not available on vehicles where the Original Equipment Cruise Switch has been installed.

Reduces the Risk of Speeding Fines

Recently, there has been a dramatic increase in the number of speed cameras and police surveillance equipment on the roads. Using the PRECISION CRUISE enables the driver to mainatain a safe (and legal) speed limit without the worry of being penalised.

Driving Optimisation and Fuel Saving

When the Cruise Control is activated, the vehicle speed is regulated more than 50 times per second, optimising driving performance. This in turn can also reduce fuel and transportation costs without comprimising vehicle performance.

Installation Service

We also provide a full installation service of all our PRECISION CRUISE SYSTEMS. Please contact us directly to arrange a quotation and book an appointment.

PLEASE SELECT YOUR VEHICLE IN THE BOX ABOVE SO THAT WE CAN PROVIDE YOU WITH THE CORRECT SYSTEM. PLEASE CONTACT US DIRECTLY IF YOU DO NOT SEE YOUR VEHICLE ON OUR COMPATIBILITY LIST AS WE MAY BE ABLE TO PROVIDE A SOLUTION FOR YOU.

Due to the unique nature of this product, certain vehicles may incur a lead time for despatch and next day delivery may not always be available.

The PRECISION CRUISE comes complete with a Universal Cruise Arm that can be installed on the steering column. Most kits also come with a ready made 'Plug n Play' pedal harness for easy installation

Full, vehicle specific, Installation Instructions will be provided with each Cruise Control System purchased.

VEHICLE COMPATIBILITY LIST

IF YOUR VEHICLE IS NOT LISTED BELOW, PLEASE CONTACT US DIRECTLY TO SEE IF WE CAN PROVIDE A SOLUTION FOR YOU

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NCS Systems trading as CANM8 Limited, Unit A2, Langham Park, Maple Road, Castle Donington. Derby. DE74 2UT

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Rostra 250-9610 Custom Cruise Control Kit - Ford Fiesta 2010-2011

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Product Description

Rostra Precision Controls Custom Cruise Control Kit compatible with 2010-11 Ford Fiesta

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E-Cruise control for Ford Fiesta

Are you tired of driving without the help of a cruise control.

• It’s possible to install an E-Cruise cruise control even if your Ford Fiesta is from year 2002 and onwards and equipped with an electronic accelerator pedal.
• If your Ford Fiesta is from year 2008 and onwards you can choose between original user functions in the steering wheel (a new steering wheel has to be installed) or an EC 80 control switch.
• If your Ford Fiesta is from 2017 and onwards and with an original speed limiter (with user functions build in the steering wheel), you can use it as well for your E-Cruise cruise control.

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2013 Fiesta S - add cruise control

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you might want to find a different dealer. your guy is a nut bar. All they have to do is pull the vin # and find out if the option has been installed and i doubt it was. If it wasn't installed as an option there will be NOTHING THERE to even activate a cruise control. The additional connector plugs on the wiring harness might be there but that would be all. Maybe. I don't know how many customers I've had that insist their car is supposed to have a clock , a power trunk release, insulated hood or other options. I just pull the vin# and look up the factory installed options. And " No, your car doesn't come with those options ". Customer is not happy but there is nothing i can do. I did a little research and shit when i found out a cigar lighter option was $118.00 extra. A cell phone charge plug was $85.00 extra from the factory. You will have to find out if the actual cruise control equipment is even there. Good luck.  

glad you got it sorted. General rule of thumb is if there isn't a switch to turn it on you don't have it. Even dash warning lights. If the ABS light doesn't come on when you turn the key you don't have it. Providing the bulb didn't burn out.  

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Aftermarket Cruise Control

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Has anyone installed or had the dealership install cruise control in your 2011 Fiesta? How much did it cost? Were the buttons on the dash or on the blinker control lever?  

Here is one from the Cruise Control store, it looks oem and comes with its own stalk, but it's pricey at $280: 2011 Ford Fiesta  

The Ford factory controls are all on the right-hand spoke of the steering wheel - easy thumb control.  

I would say that the CruiseControlShop aftermarket cruise is a great find. If it performs well, I would not flinch at the cost. I see you have an S model; for me, that's a great value car -- except for the lack of cruise control -- and now you have solved that issue. As for the cruise, modern engines have deceleration fuel shut-off: on the Fiesta the on/off of the decel shutoff is really, really smooth (in that, when you just "toe" the throttle, the injectors "wake-up" with barely any jerkiness. Much bettter than many cars that I have driven. The question, in my mind, is the degree to which this aftermarket cruise is eager to maintain the exact speed. As you crest a highway hill, just beyond the highest elevation part -- that's where an overly-active control will be annoying. the decel fuel shut off gets triggered, and then un-triggered... If the cruise system is moderate in its intent to maintain set-point -- that'd be ideal. Hope it is. Eurofordfan  

I've installed one of there cruise controls on a toyota echo, it is not user friendly, haha. The module for it died within a few months and its not smooth it would be best described as jumpy, also the stalk they provided did not match the car at all and was very klunky and again not well designed for cruise control. Though it did give this base model car cruise control so it was not all bad.  

has anyon installed the cruise control stores model yet? I have the "S" too, and really would like the cruise.  

Bumping I just got an SE 4 door. I used to drive a 96 Probe SE manual with cruise, but someone hit me and totaled it. I love the Fiesta. I am a big dude, about 350, 6'1" or so, (fatty), but still the little car fits. The thing is, though, that I did not notice when I bought it that it didn't have cruise. I was in desperate need of an affordable car and I happened upon this one. I still love it, but I drive back and forth from college to home and the 400 mile trip is torture without cruise. Please, someone tell me if they had any luck with an aftermarket cruise. I could go stock cruise, but the dealer said that they would have to replace the steering wheel and all the wiring harnesses in the car, since it isn't wired for cruise. This would probably cost upwords of 2 grand. I need cruise for my trips. Thanks for any info.  

I purchased an online cruise kit this week for $280 shipped. I'll do a write-up after the install, it should arrive before the weekend...I hope.  

.....  

http://fiestafaction.com/forums/int...plete-aftermarket-cruise-control-install.html  

Well as long as it is working for you. Thats all I was worried about. I just didn't want to install a shoddy piece of equipment that was going to have control of my speed. I don't think I will get as advanced as the button system you have set up because I will be taking it to a shop to have it done. I do like your 3 button system, though. It looks good. Out of sight. That would be nice to link it to the light in the dash, too. But thanks for your write up. Hope you have good luck with it. I should be getting mine in a few weeks here.  

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Ford Fiesta 2017-2023 Aftermarket Cruise Control Kit

Vehicle Specific Cruise Control for Ford Fiesta 2017-2023

Cruise Control: Elevate your driving experience with our advanced cruise control system.

• Maintain a steady speed effortlessly • Set custom speed limits for safety • Prevent exceeding preset speed limits • Vehicle Specific for Easy Installation • Pre-programmed for compatibility • Upgrade to CM5 command modules • No impact on vehicle warranties

Contact us today for a safer and more comfortable ride!

Installation – what to expect:

• Average installation time – 3+ hours

£ 467.00 £ 398.73

Description

Additional information.

Cruise control is a versatile product that offers comfort and safety to both drivers and passengers. It not only allows the driver to maintain a constant speed at the touch of a button, but also provides a driver-set speed limiter that can be adjusted according to road conditions. Moreover, it comes with a top-end speed limiter that prevents the vehicle from being driven above a certain speed limit, which is set during installation. We believe that everyone can benefit from having a cruise control installed in their vehicle.

If you are interested in purchasing and installing a cruise control, Conrad Anderson provides installation services through our approved 3rd party installers. The installation process typically takes around 2-3 hours, although some vehicles may require more time depending on their make, model, and year, as well as their physical and electronic accessibility.

With a cruise control installed in your vehicle, you can enjoy a more comfortable and safe driving experience. Contact us today to learn more about our cruise control products and installation services.

What’s included in the box:

• Cruise control computer: preprogrammed for your vehicle
• Computer wiring loom: for power and vehicle speed pulse, brake switch, clutch switch or CANBUS connection.
• T-Harness: plug-in connection to the throttle pedal
• Command module: GC3 standard stalk, with the option at purchase to have GC4 or GC5

Cruise control is a useful feature that enhances driver comfort and safety, but it also comes with certain safety features to ensure that it operates safely and reliably. Here are some of the safety features that are commonly found in cruise control systems:

• Brake circuit detection: Before cruise control can engage, it must detect resistance across the brake circuit to ensure that the brakes are functioning properly. If there is a fault in the brake lights or brake switch, the cruise control will not work.
• Speed deviation limit: If the vehicle’s speed increases or decreases by more than 15% of the set speed during cruise control operation, the system will automatically deactivate. For example, if the vehicle is driving up a steep hill and cannot maintain the set speed in the current gear, the cruise control will deactivate.
• Throttle pedal connection: The connection between the throttle pedal and the cruise control only affects the vehicle’s operation when the cruise control is turned on. When the cruise control is turned off, the pedal signals are unchanged, allowing the throttle pedal to operate normally.
• Brake and clutch deactivation: The cruise control will automatically deactivate if the driver applies the brake or clutch pedal, ensuring that the driver retains full control over the vehicle.

These safety features help to ensure that cruise control operates reliably and safely, providing drivers with a more comfortable and stress-free driving experience.

General installation process – for Ford Fiesta 2017-2023

Installing a cruise control system typically requires accessing the area under the dashboard and steering column. Here are the general steps involved in the installation process:

• Remove the knee-trim and steering column cowling to access the area where the cruise control components will be installed.
• Use soldered joints for the +ve and CANBUS connections, which can be found in the OBD or Data link connector.
• Unplug the throttle pedal connector and place the T-harness inline. Connect the other end of the harness to the cruise computer.
• Install the command module to the steering column cowling, ensuring that you mark the best position before removing the trim. Run the cabling and connect it into the main computer loom.
• Once the components are installed, perform a simple setup procedure that typically takes 10-20 minutes. This procedure does not require any extra equipment, and the necessary information to communicate with the vehicle is pre-installed by Conrad Anderson.
• Take the vehicle on a short drive and test the cruise control to ensure that it is working correctly. Some modified body or high payload vehicles may require some adjustment to make sure the speed is kept constant and the acceleration rate is suitable.

By following these steps, you can have a cruise control system installed in your vehicle, enhancing your driving experience with increased comfort and safety.

Command module functions

The GC3 is the basic stalk that is included in the cruise control product price. It provides all the basic functions required for cruise control operation, including setting the current speed, increasing or decreasing the speed, coasting to deactivate the cruise (which can also be done by applying the brake or clutch pedal), and resuming the cruise at the previous speed.

Alternatively, there are other command modules available that include the same basic functions as the GC3 but with additional preset speed memory buttons. These buttons allow you to save specific speeds and quickly recall them later, without having to manually adjust the cruise control every time you want to travel at a different speed.

For example, the GC4 command module includes two preset memory buttons, while the GC5 has three preset memory buttons in a new design. These preset speeds can be changed at any time, but they are non-volatile, meaning they will remain set even after the ignition is turned off.

By providing these additional preset speed memory buttons, the GC4 and GC5 command modules make it easier to use cruise control, allowing you to quickly adjust your speed to match different road conditions or driving situations.

When installing the command module for the cruise control, the stalk command modules are bolted to the steering column cowling. The wiring for the command module runs through the centre of the hollow mounting bolt and connects to the main computer wiring loom. The wires are supplied non-terminated, which means that they need to be run through the drilled cowling before being connected to the pre-pinned cables.

During installation, it’s important to take care to mount the module in a location that provides enough space behind the cowling for the securing nut and flanged washer. The final position of the stalk is adjustable using the integral ball joint, so it can be adjusted to the optimal position for the driver’s comfort and convenience.

Overall, the installation process for the command module requires careful attention to detail and precision, but it is relatively straightforward for an experienced installer. Once the module is installed and connected to the main computer wiring loom, it can be calibrated and tested to ensure that it is working correctly and providing the desired functionality for the driver.

Troubleshooting:

If the cruise control does not activate, there are several steps that can be taken to diagnose and troubleshoot the issue. The first step is to check the power supply and main fuse for the command module. If the module indicator light does not change from green to red, it may be

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Aftermarket Cruise control fitting

By Connall, March 13, 2019 in Ford Fiesta Club

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does anyone know of or have an recommendations for someone to fit aftermarket cruise control to a mk7.5 140 ecoboost?

I'm located in Central Scotland, so ideally someone not too far away.

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2 hours ago, Connall said: Hi all,  does anyone know of or have an recommendations for someone to fit aftermarket cruise control to a mk7.5 140 ecoboost? I'm located in Central Scotland, so ideally someone not too far away. cheers  

I wouldn't go for a aftermarket one, you can get a ford steering wheel cheaply from off eBay etc that has the cruise control switches and activate the cruise control using forscan for a fraction of the price of a aftermarket item, if I remember correctly a good aftermarket will set you back about £400 fitted

Paul is right.   I had cruise control fitted to a 2006 Fiesta when it was new and it cost £400 then.

16 hours ago, Tebba said: I wouldn't go for a aftermarket one, you can get a ford steering wheel cheaply from off ebay etc that has the cruise control switches and activate the cruise control using forscan for a fraction of the price of a aftermarket item, if I remember correctly a good aftermarket will set you back about £400 fitted

Would a mk 8 one such as this work?  https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/FORD-FIESTA-ST-LINE-2018-FLAT-BOTTOM-STEERING-WHEEL-LEATHER-MULTIFUNCTION-WHEEL/283411791860?_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIM.MBE%26ao%3D2%26asc%3D20140122125356%26meid%3D522e829d71c24d8dac6183ef7c0985af%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D4%26rkt%3D12%26sd%3D223314387798%26itm%3D283411791860&_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851

or would I need to stick to the 7.5?

Hi, I'd stick to the original mk7. 5 type to guarantee compatibility as wiring / airbag might be different, ask on the forum though as someone might have already fitted one

If your loom looks like this in your steering column then you already have the wiring and sensors for the OEM cruise control. You just need to add the steering wheel switch and activate with Forscan. Lots of guides on here. 

JOHN FISHER

Thanks to David and  Paul for their advice. I have bought correct steering wheel on eBay for my 2018 Fiesta 1.0T ecoboost powershift titanium and need advice on what exactly I NEED TO TRANSFER from the new wheel to MY CAR?

17 minutes ago, JOHN FISHER said: Thanks to David and  Paul for their advice. I have bought correct steering wheel on ebay for my 2018 Fiesta 1.0T ecoboost powershift titanium and need advice on what exactly I NEED TO TRANSFER from the new wheel to MY CAR? Jack.

You can simply swap the wheel (there’s good guides on YouTube) or swap out the switch and silver trim - you can do that without removing the airbag if you’re careful. You then need to activate the CC using Forscan. There’s a couple of good guides on here. 

• 2 years later...

Desmondo1601

Thanks for this fix, just what I need. Only question is how do I activate the Forscan? Is this something i can do or does a main dealer have to activate this please?

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Shooter Files by f.d. walker

Street Photography Tips, Interaction, Travel, Guides

Apr 24 2017

City Street Guides by f.d. walker: A Street Photography Guide to Moscow, Russia

*A series of guides on shooting Street Photography in cities around the world. Find the best spots to shoot, things to capture, street walks, street tips, safety concerns, and more for cities around the world. I have personally researched, explored and shot Street Photography in every city that I create a guide for. So you can be ready to capture the streets as soon as you step outside with your camera!

At over 12 million people, Moscow is the largest city in Russia and second largest in Europe by population ( Istanbul is #1). An urban, cosmopolitan metropolis with more than enough glitz and glam to cater to the elite, but without losing its fair share of Soviet era roughness around the edges. It can be fast paced, brash, busy, and trendy like other big cities, but it has its blend of West meets Russia atmosphere and beauty that provides plenty of unique interest. The Red Square is as famous as it gets, but there’s so much more to this city, including the most beautiful subway system you’ve ever seen. It would take years to capture all of Moscow, but that means you have an endless amount of areas to discover.

So here’s a Street Photography guide so you can be ready to capture all that Moscow has to offer before you even arrive!

• Patriarch’s Pond
• Old Arbat Street
• Maroseyka Street
• Tverskoy Boulevard

Top 5 Street Spots:

1. red square.

The Red Square is the most famous square in not just Russia, but all of Eastern Europe. The name actually doesn’t come from the color of the bricks or communism, but from the name in Russian, Krásnaya, once meaning “beautiful” before its meaning changed to “red.” This large plaza is what you see on the cover of guide books and magazines for Moscow, with St. Basil’s Cathedral being the center piece next to Lenin’s Mausoleum surrounded by the Kremlin Wall. Of course, the Red Square attracts hordes of tourist due to the main attractions, but all that activity around an interesting atmosphere does provide street photo opportunities. It’s also the central square connecting to the city’s major streets, providing a good starting point to explore outward.

You’ll also find the popular pedestrian only Nikolskaya Street connecting the Red Square to Lubyanka Square. This line of expensive shops includes plenty of activity, while also leading you to another popular square. Filled with history rivaling any city, the Red Square and surrounding areas are the heart and soul of Russia.

2. Patriarch’s Ponds

Patriarch’s Ponds is one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Moscow. Despite the name being plural, there’s only one large pond, but it’s worth a visit with your camera. It’s a popular spot for locals and expats to come relax or take a stroll around the pond. You get an interesting mix of young and old too, from young love to “babushkas” feeding pigeons. It’s a very peaceful park atmosphere in one of the nicer areas within the city center, while bringing enough activity for street photography. 

The pond is shallow and in the winter becomes a popular spot for ice-skating too. The area is also well-known for the location in the famous Russian novel, The Master and Margarita. 

3. Old Arbat (Stary Arbat)

Old Arbat is the most famous pedestrian street in Moscow, and dating back to the 15th century, also one of its oldest. Originally, it was an area of trade, but soon became the most prestigious residential area in Moscow. During the 18th century, Arbat started attracting the city’s scholars and artists, including Alexander Pushkin. Cafes lined the streets and impressive homes filled the neighborhood. Since then, New Arbat street was created as a highway in the area, while Old Arbat was paved for a 1km pedestrian only walkway.

Due to the historic buildings, famous artists that lived here, and the bohemian atmosphere, Old Arbat has become a big attraction for tourists today. Now, there’s a mix of cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, street performers, street merchants and other attractions for visitors, and some locals, to come enjoy. It can get really busy here and there’s usually something interesting going on so it’s a good street to come walk with your camera for guaranteed life.

4. Gorky Park

One of the most famous places in Moscow is Gorky Park. The official name is Maxim Gorky’s Central Park of Culture & Leisure, which gives you an idea of what goes on here. When built, it was the first of its kind in the Soviet Union. Divided into two parts, it stretches along Moscow River. One end contains fair rides, foods stands, tennis courts, a sports club, a lake for boat rides, and more. This end brings more active life due to its number of attractions, while the other end is more relaxed, where you’ll find gardens, trees, older buildings, and an outdoor amphitheater.

Gorky Park attracts mostly locals so it’s a good spot to capture the non-tourist side of Moscow life. Muscovites come here to escape the city and unwind in a picturesque setting. The park remains alive outside of the warmer months too, especially when the lake turns into the city’s largest outdoor skating rink. I’d recommend taking the metro out here to spend at least half a day exploring the massive park’s life with your camera.

5. Maroseyka Street

Maroseyka Street is a popular area not too far from the Red Square. The long, winding street turns into Pokrovka and is lined with restaurants, cafes, bars and places to stay. It’s actually where I like to stay when I’m in Moscow due to its location and solid street photography opportunities itself. You have Kitay-gorod station near and if you keep walking southwest, you’ll get to the Red Square. But if you walk northwest, as it changes to Pokrovka, you can find a long street of activity for photography with its own interesting atmosphere.

6. Tverskoy Boulevard

Tverskoy Boulevard is the oldest and longest boulevard in Moscow, beginning at the end of Nikitsky Boulevard, and finishing at Pushkin Square, a spot to come for activity itself. The boulevard is made up of two avenues, with pedestrian walkways in-between. You’ll find grass, shrubbery, trees, benches and more walking it’s almost kilometer length. Many people come here to enjoy some relaxation, walk their dog, or just to use it to walk wherever they’re going. Its center location also provides a nice place to walk with your camera near plenty of other spots you’ll want to check out anyway.

Sample Street Walk:

For a full day of Street Photography, covering some of the best spots, you can follow this sample street walk for Moscow:

• Start your morning walking around the Red Square (1), while exploring the surrounding area, including Nikolskaya Street
• Then walk northwest to Patriarch’s Ponds (2) and slowly walk the pond and surrounding area with your camera
• Next, walk east to the Pushkin Monument and stroll down Tverskoy Boulevard (6)
• Once Tverskoy Boulevard (6) ends, it will turn into Nikitsky Boulevard. Follow this down until you get to the start of Old Arbat Street (3), across from Arbatskaya station
• After you’re done walking down Old Arbat Street (3) for more street photography, spend some time checking out Moscow’s beautiful metro stations
• To finish off the day with more street photography, get off the metro near Red Square (1) again, Maroseyka Street (5) or wherever you’re staying for the night.

3 Things I’ll Remember about Shooting in Moscow:

1. museum metro.

The Moscow metro system was the first underground railway system in the Soviet Union and today includes 203 stations across 340km of routes. The elaborate system has some of the deepest stations in the world too, with escalators that seem to go on forever. None of this is what makes it so special, though. Many of its stations feel like stepping inside a museum, making it without a doubt the most interesting and beautiful metro system I’ve been in.

When built, Stalin wanted to make the metro stations “palaces for the people” with marble, chandeliers, and grand architecture. The best part is the variety of architecture and styles used, making many of the stations a completely different experience visually. You could easily spend a whole day traveling the stations and there are even tours available for people who wish to do just that. My advice, though, would be just to buy a ticket and hop on and off at different stations, while exploring different lines. The museum-like surrounding mixed with the crowds of characters can make for a great photography experience.

Since there are so many stations, here are some of my favorites to check out:

• Novoslobodskaya
• Mayakovskaya
• Elektrozavodskaya
• Komsomolskaya
• Ploschad Revolyutsii
• Dostoyevskaya
• Prospekt Mira

2. Moscow is Big

It’s no secret that Moscow is a big city, but it can feel even bigger with how spread out much of it is. This is especially true if you compare it to cities outside of Asia. If I compared it to cities in Europe, I’d probably say only Istanbul would warrant more time to really discover the depths of this city. Most only explore around the Red Square and surrounding area, but that is such a small part of the city. Although, that central area does give you plenty to see on its own.

Fortunately, I had a good friend living in the city to show me around, but it opened up my eyes even more to how much there is to discover in Moscow. It’s a big city with a variety of atmosphere that can take you from “east” to “west” and trendy to rugged depending on where you go. I’d imagine you’d have to live here a while to really know the city.

3. Cosmopolitan Mix of East meets West

Modern skyscrapers mixed with amazing architecture, a world-class metro system with museum-like beauty, trendy fashion and chic clubs, Moscow is a rich mix of Russian culture and history in a more western cosmopolitan package. There is a push to keep the Russian culture, while also pushing forward with a modern metropolis the whole world will envy. This comes with an impressive skyline, that continues to grow, and endless modernities, but with soviet nostalgia and atmosphere mixed in for good measure.

Mixed in with this grand western cosmopolitan atmosphere, is a strong national pride in Russia. This includes their famous leader, Vladimir Putin. Maybe no other place will you see a country’s leader more often. All over, from the pricey tourist shops to the underground walkway stalls, you’ll find goods with Putin’s likeness covering them. From t-shirts to magnets to Matryoshka dolls. There’s a strong national pride that can be seen around the city, which also extends to their leader. Moscow is many things. It’s East meets West, modernizations meets Soviet era, and a whole lot more.

What To Do For a Street Photography Break?:

Eat at a stolovaya.

Stolovayas are Russian cafeterias that became popular in the Soviet days. You grab a tray and walk down the line of freshly prepared local dishes, and select whatever you want from the chefs. They’re usually inexpensive and a much better value than restaurants, while giving you the opportunity to try from a wide selection of everyday Russian food. They’re also very tasty. I always include some borsch on my tray and go from there. The places themselves are all over Moscow and usually come with Soviet-era aesthetics to complete the experience.

Street Safety Score: 7

*As always, no place is completely safe! So when I talk about safety, I’m speaking in general comparison to other places. Always take precaution, be smart, observe your surroundings and trust your instincts anywhere you go!

Being the 2nd largest city in Europe with over 12 million people, you’re going to have your dangerous areas, but for the most part, it feels safe walking around. Russia is statistically higher in crime compared to most of Europe, but this generally doesn’t apply to tourists and visitors. Around the Red Square and surrounding city center, you should feel completely safe walking around. Pick pocketing can happen, but no more than other touristic places. I always explore Moscow freely without coming across too much to worry about. It’s a spread out city, though, so of course it matters where you are. Just use basic street smarts, know where you are and Moscow shouldn’t give you a problem. 

People’s Reaction Score: 7

Moscow is fast paced, big city life, which usually means people aren’t too concerned with you, or your camera. I don’t find people notice or pay much attention to me when I’m out taking photos in Moscow. For the most part, people just go about their day. You shouldn’t get too many looks or concern. But it can depend on the area you are in. The more you stick out, the more you might get noticed with suspicions. I’ve never had any problems in Moscow, or Russia, but just be careful who you’re taking a photo of if you get out of the city center. Other than that, it’s about average for reactions. 

Street Tips:

Learn the alphabet .

Much of Moscow, including the metro system, doesn’t use english. The Russian alphabet uses letters from the Cyrillic script, which if you aren’t familiar with it and don’t know the sounds, can be hard to decipher the words. This is most important for street names and metro stops when trying to get around. It can save confusion and make it easier getting around if you learn the basic alphabet. At the very least then, you can sound out the words to see which are similar in the english conversion, which can help matching them to maps. When out shooting street photography, getting around is as important as anything. So save yourself some time and frustration by learning the Russian Alphabet.

Use the metro

While Saint-Petersburg feels very walkable for a city its size, Moscow can feel very spread out, even for its bigger size. Outside of the Red Square area, you can have plenty of walking before getting anywhere very interesting, so you’ll need to take the metro a lot if you really want to explore the city. Maps are deceiving here too, it will always be further than it looks.

Another reason it’s less walkable than Saint-Petersburg is its completely different set-up. Moscow’s streets are mostly contstructed in rings with narrow, winding streets in-between. This is common with medieval city cities that used to be confined by walls, but you usually don’t have it in a city this massive. Saint-Petersburg has a more grid-like pattern that also uses the canals to help you know your way around. When it comes to navigating on foot in Moscow, it can be more difficult, so bring a map and take the metro when needed. It’s why Moscow’s metro carries more passengers per day than the London and Paris subways combined.

Explore other areas if you have time

Moscow is really big. While most people stay around the Red Square within the Boulevard Ring, there’s so much more to the city. I covered some other spots outside of this circle, but if you really want to see the city, you’ll need time. If you do have time, some other areas I’d check out first are Zamoskvarechye, along some of the south and western Moscow.

Inspiration:

For some more inspiration, you can look through the Street Photography of Moscow photographer Artem Zhitenev  and check out 33 of my photos taken in Moscow .

Conclusion:

Moscow’s name brings a certain mystique, but once you’re there it might bring a different atmosphere than you expect. It’s big and sprawling, but beautiful in many ways. It can feel like a European capital on a grand scale, but you can definitely find its Russian side in there.

The urban sprawl of Moscow can be intimidating, but give it enough time and you’ll be rewarded with plenty to discover. All with the world’s best metro system to take you around.

I hope this guide can help you start to experience some of what Moscow contains. So grab your camera and capture all that Moscow has to offer for Street Photography!

If you still have any questions about shooting in Moscow, feel free to comment below or email me!

(I want to make these guides as valuable as possible for all of you so add any ideas on improvements, including addition requests, in the comment section!)

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