Great Moscow State Circus - gray elephants performing on circus
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Great Moscow State Circus

4.7
·13k reviews·Moskva, Russia

Europe's largest circus, offering spectacular acrobatics, juggling, and animal acts in a historic, classic venue.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

More showtimes available

CrowdHigh
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Great Moscow State Circus - gray elephants performing on circus

Great Moscow State Circus

Best Time

Weekends

More showtimes available

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Europe's largest circus, offering spectacular acrobatics, juggling, and animal acts in a historic, classic venue.

4.7
(13k reviews)

"A classic Russian experience with stunning performances and a memorable, albeit sometimes cramped, outing."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early for Snacks

Grab light snacks and drinks at reasonable prices before the show starts. :pizza:

📏 Legroom Alert!

Seats can be tight; taller visitors might find legroom limited. :straight_ruler:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Acrobatic Marvels

Acrobatic Marvels

Witness breathtaking stunts and gravity-defying performances by world-class artists from around the globe.

Reddit
Juggling Mastery

Juggling Mastery

Be mesmerized by incredibly skilled jugglers who perform dazzling routines with speed and precision.

Reddit
Animal Acts

Animal Acts

Enjoy a limited but charming selection of animal performances, including dogs and elephants.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Prime Seats

The Great Moscow State Circus is a popular attraction, so booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially for premium seating. Arrive early to soak in the atmosphere and grab snacks before the show begins. Reddit

Prepare for a Long Show

Shows typically run for 2-3 hours with an intermission. While performances are captivating, be aware that seating can be cramped, particularly for taller individuals. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
More showtimes available
Crowd
High
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, good for dates
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Moscow Circus

🎯 Arrive Early for Snacks

Grab light snacks and drinks at reasonable prices before the show starts. Reddit :pizza:

📏 Legroom Alert!

Seats can be tight; taller visitors might find legroom limited. Reddit :straight_ruler:

reddit.com

Moscow State Circus

🇷🇺 Language Barrier

Announcements are primarily in Russian, so enjoy the visual spectacle! Reddit :microphone:

🎭 Classic Soviet Atmosphere

Embrace the vintage charm of this historic circus building. Reddit :vintage_camera:

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early for Snacks

Grab light snacks and drinks at reasonable prices before the show starts. Reddit :pizza:

📏 Legroom Alert!

Seats can be tight; taller visitors might find legroom limited. Reddit :straight_ruler:

🇷🇺 Language Barrier

Announcements are primarily in Russian, so enjoy the visual spectacle! Reddit :microphone:

🎭 Classic Soviet Atmosphere

Embrace the vintage charm of this historic circus building. Reddit :vintage_camera:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(13k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Great Moscow State Circus for its stunning, world-class performances featuring talented acrobats and jugglers from around the globe. The classic Soviet atmosphere and limited animal acts are also highlights. However, some find the seating uncomfortable and legroom insufficient, and announcements are exclusively in Russian.

"Amazingly nice show. No English speaking presenters though. Seats are wide enough but leg spec is not enough of your are 6’ or taller."

AbdulAziz Jaafar

"A Classic Russian Experience with Stunning Performances

The Great Moscow State Circus is a grand and iconic venue—one of the largest and most famous circuses in Europe. The show features world-class acrobats, jugglers, and performers with incredible costumes, lighting, and music. It’s a true cultural experience and a great outing for families or anyone wanting to see a traditional Russian-style circus.

However, be aware that some acts involve animals, which may not be comfortable for everyone. While the performances are impressive, the seating can be a bit cramped, especially in the premium rows. Despite that, the overall experience is memorable and worth seeing at least once while in Moscow.
Tip: Arrive early to explore the area and grab snacks before the show starts. The performances last around 2–3 hours with an intermission"

Athif Abdul Azeez

"The shows are nice, enjoyable and varied, but the seats are uncomfortable and the distance between the seat and the front seat is narrow. Also, the ventilation is not good."

Hakeem الحكيم

What People Like

World-class performances
Talented artists
Classic atmosphere

What People Dislike

Cramped seating
Limited legroom
Russian-only announcements

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The circus is located near Moscow State University. Public transport, including metro and buses, is readily available. Check local transit apps for the most convenient routes from your location. Reddit

Parking availability can be limited, especially during peak show times. It's often recommended to use public transportation to avoid parking hassles. Reddit

You can take the metro from Red Square to a station near Moscow State University and then walk or take a short bus ride. Consult a transit map for specific lines and transfers. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets can be purchased online through the official circus website or at the box office. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular show dates. Reddit

Ticket prices vary depending on seating location and show. Expect a range from moderate to premium for better views. Check the official website for current pricing. Reddit

Information on discounts for children or family packages is usually available on the circus's official ticketing page. It's best to check directly for any available offers. Reddit

The circus operates based on show schedules. It's crucial to check the specific showtimes for the day you plan to visit, as hours vary. Reddit

While possible, it's risky to rely on same-day tickets, as popular shows often sell out. Booking ahead ensures your spot and preferred seating. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The shows typically last between 2 to 3 hours, including a 20-minute intermission. Reddit

Yes, there are limited animal performances, including dogs and elephants, alongside the human acrobatics. Reddit

The circus is generally family-friendly, with a variety of acts that can entertain children. However, some stunts might be intense. Reddit

Seating can be a bit cramped, with limited legroom, especially for taller individuals. Gallery seating is mentioned as providing a comfortable view. Reddit

Yes, restroom facilities are available within the premises. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Light snacks and soft drinks are available for purchase within the premises at reasonable prices. Reddit

It's generally advisable to check the circus's specific policy on outside food and beverages. Usually, small personal items might be allowed, but large meals are often restricted. Reddit

Expect typical circus fare like popcorn, sweets, and soft drinks. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Policies on photography can vary. It's best to check with the venue staff upon arrival or look for signage. Flash photography is often prohibited to avoid disturbing performers. Reddit

The main performance area offers dynamic shots. Consider capturing the grandeur of the building's exterior and the vibrant atmosphere inside. Reddit

Similar to photography, video recording policies can be strict. Always confirm with the venue before recording performances. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Great Moscow State Circus offers a fantastic outing for families. The variety of acts, from energetic acrobats to charming animal performances, is sure to keep children entertained. Reddit While the show is long, the excitement of the performances can hold young attention spans. Reddit Be prepared for potentially cramped seating, so consider booking seats with a bit more space if available, or bring a small cushion for added comfort. Reddit The snacks and drinks available are also a hit with younger audiences. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Great Moscow State Circus offers a classic Moscow experience at a reasonable price, especially if you opt for non-premium seating. Reddit Arriving early allows you to enjoy the atmosphere without extra cost. While food and drinks are available, they can add up, so consider having a meal before or after the show. Reddit The gallery seating is often mentioned as a more affordable option that still provides a good view. Reddit

couples

A visit to the Great Moscow State Circus can be a unique and memorable date night. The thrilling performances and vibrant atmosphere create an exciting shared experience. Reddit Opt for evening shows for a more romantic setting. While the seating can be a bit close, it can also add to the intimacy of the experience. Reddit Consider booking seats that offer a good view of the entire arena to fully appreciate the artistry. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Spectacle of Performances

The Great Moscow State Circus is renowned for its diverse and thrilling performances. Audiences can expect a dazzling array of acts, from gravity-defying acrobats and nimble jugglers to captivating clowns and impressive animal trainers. The show often features artists from various countries, showcasing a rich tapestry of international circus traditions. Reddit The use of stunning costumes, dynamic lighting, and energetic music enhances the overall theatrical experience, making it a feast for the senses. Reddit

While the human performances are the main draw, the circus also includes a limited number of animal acts, such as dog shows and elephant performances, which add a classic circus element. Reddit However, it's worth noting that some visitors may have reservations about animal involvement in performances. The show is structured with two halves, typically lasting around 1.5 hours each, separated by a 20-minute intermission, providing ample time to enjoy the spectacle. Reddit

Understanding the Venue and Seating

The Great Moscow State Circus is housed in a historic building that contributes to its unique Soviet-era atmosphere. Reddit While the venue is grand and iconic, the seating arrangements can be a point of contention for some visitors. Many reviews mention that the seats are not particularly comfortable and that the legroom is limited, especially for taller individuals. Reddit Some visitors found the gallery seating to offer a more comfortable viewing experience. Reddit

Despite the seating challenges, the overall ambiance of the circus is often described as memorable and classic. The building's age adds to its charm, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of entertainment. Reddit It's advisable to book premium seats in advance if possible, or be prepared for a potentially snug fit during the 2-3 hour show. Reddit

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