The Russian language itself, as well as the state languages of the Russian national republics, are based on the Cyrillic alphabet, which is enshrined in law. However, the Latin alphabet can still be found in quite a few places across Russia.

On transport schemes and signposts

A service dog in Moscow's Sheremetyevo airport.

Sputnik

In the subway, at airports, railways stations, stadiums and at customs control, navigation signs are (for the most part) translated into English and, sometimes, also into Chinese.

In big cities, stops on public transport began to be announced in English, as well. This was introduced after the 2014 Sochi Olympics and the 2018 World Cup, which was held in Russia.

At the Pushkinskaya metro station.

Sergei Bobylev/TASS

In major cities, key toponyms on address plates and information billboards are also written in the Latin script. Proper names are transliterated rather than translated: for instance, Kitay-gorod metro station is listed as Kitay-gorod, not literally 'China Town'.

In border areas

Russia-Finland border.

Petr Kovalev/TASS

On highways, as one drives into borderline settlements, toponyms on road signs are written both in the Cyrillic and Latin alphabet.

A cafe in the city of Vyborg.

Ekaterina Chesnokova/Sputnik

In cities and villages near the border, one may come across translations of sign plates into the language of the neighboring country: by doing so, the owners of businesses demonstrate their being client-oriented to those visiting Russia.

On commercial signage

A shawarma kiosk in St. Petersburg.

Alexei Danichev/Sputnik

The use of the Latin script is not always aimed at foreigners. It is sometimes used, or rather "mixed", with Cyrillic, for instance, in the naming of venues or brands. And, at times, it looks... quite original!

Canteen in office center in Moscow.

Russia Beyond

Dear readers,

Our website and social media accounts are under threat of being restricted or banned, due to the current circumstances. So, to keep up with our latest content, simply do the following:

• Subscribe to our Telegram channel
• Subscribe to our weekly email newsletter
• Enable push notifications on our website
• Install a VPN service on your computer and/or phone to have access to our website, even if it is blocked in your country