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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
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Great Moscow State Circus
Best Time
More showtimes available

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Europe's largest circus, offering spectacular acrobatics, juggling, and animal acts in a historic, classic venue.
"A classic Russian experience with stunning performances and a memorable, albeit sometimes cramped, outing."
🎯 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:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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

Animal Acts
Enjoy a limited but charming selection of animal performances, including dogs and elephants.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Prime Seats
Prepare for a Long Show
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Moscow Circus
🎯 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:Moscow State Circus
🇷🇺 Language Barrier
Announcements are primarily in Russian, so enjoy the visual spectacle!
:microphone:🎭 Classic Soviet Atmosphere
Embrace the vintage charm of this historic circus building.
:vintage_camera:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 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:🇷🇺 Language Barrier
Announcements are primarily in Russian, so enjoy the visual spectacle!
:microphone:🎭 Classic Soviet Atmosphere
Embrace the vintage charm of this historic circus building.
:vintage_camera:What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
Parking availability can be limited, especially during peak show times. It's often recommended to use public transportation to avoid parking hassles.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The shows typically last between 2 to 3 hours, including a 20-minute intermission.
Yes, there are limited animal performances, including dogs and elephants, alongside the human acrobatics.
The circus is generally family-friendly, with a variety of acts that can entertain children. However, some stunts might be intense.
Seating can be a bit cramped, with limited legroom, especially for taller individuals. Gallery seating is mentioned as providing a comfortable view.
Yes, restroom facilities are available within the premises.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Light snacks and soft drinks are available for purchase within the premises at reasonable prices.
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.
Expect typical circus fare like popcorn, sweets, and soft drinks.
📸 📸 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.
The main performance area offers dynamic shots. Consider capturing the grandeur of the building's exterior and the vibrant atmosphere inside.
Similar to photography, video recording policies can be strict. Always confirm with the venue before recording performances.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spectacle of Performances
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. 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.
Understanding the Venue and Seating
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. 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.
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