In Moscow, it's polite to greet people with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact, especially in business settings. Avoid using first names until invited to do so. This helps establish respect and understanding.

When addressing people in Moscow, it's customary to use their titles and surnames unless invited to use their first name. This shows respect and acknowledges their social status or professional achievements.

It's common to bring gifts when invited to someone’s home. Flowers, chocolates, or wine are typical gifts, but avoid giving even numbers of flowers, as it's associated with funerals.

Always wait for the host to begin eating and try a little of every dish offered. Leaving a small amount of food on your plate shows you are full and satisfied.

Being on time is appreciated in Moscow; however, hosts might expect guests to be fashionably late by about 15 minutes. This reflects a relaxed approach to social appointments.

Moscovites tend to dress smartly, and the city embraces fashion and style. Wearing classy and neat attire is advised, particularly in restaurants or theaters.

Stand on the right and walk on the left on escalators. On crowded transport, giving up your seat to elderly or pregnant passengers is customary.

Muscovites value privacy and personal space in public, so it's considered impolite to be loud or overly expressive. Respectful and modest behavior is appreciated.

Queue jumping is frowned upon, so always take your place in line. This reflects orderliness and patience, highly valued in Russian culture.

Some places like the Moscow Metro or churches may have restrictions on photography. It's essential to ask for permission or abide by signs to avoid conflicts.

Tipping is customary in Moscow, with 10-15% being standard at restaurants. While not always expected, it’s appreciated in service sectors.

Toasts are significant during meals and celebrations. The host typically initiates the first toast, and it's common to make eye contact and take a sip after a toast.

Dress modestly, and for women, covering the head with a scarf in Orthodox churches is customary. This shows respect for religious traditions.

Avoid discussing politics or sensitive historical topics unless you know your conversation partner well. Such subjects can be contentious and might cause discomfort.

Direct gestures or large arm movements can be seen as rude. Instead, use subtle and calm gestures to communicate.

Vodka is a cultural staple in Moscow, often consumed during toasts at celebrations. Accept offers graciously but moderate your intake.

In local markets, friendly haggling can be a part of the experience. Building rapport with vendors is beneficial, but also respect fixed prices in shops.

Participating in local festivals like Maslenitsa gives you a taste of local traditions and customs. Be prepared for lively celebrations involving food, music, and dance.

Small keepsakes from your home country can be appreciated when meeting new acquaintances. They symbolize goodwill and cultural exchange.

Show respect at historical sites, like the Kremlin or Red Square, especially during official ceremonies. It's a reflection of respect for the country’s history and people.