Why go
The safe, durable advice is to confirm the vehicle, destination and displayed fare before moving. Metro travel is usually more predictable across the center, while a taxi becomes useful for a door-to-door transfer or a group sharing one direct journey.
The full story
Moscow traffic can make a short road distance slow and expensive in time. Use a licensed taxi or a reputable current dispatch channel, match the registration and vehicle details, and confirm the destination before departure. Keep the address in writing, preferably with the nearest entrance or landmark, because large complexes may have several approaches. Do not accept an unexplained switch from the normal meter or app process to a private flat fare. The legacy practice of flagging down any driver is not appropriate safety guidance. If details do not match or the process feels wrong, end the interaction before entering. For central journeys, compare the route with the Metro; trains often avoid congestion and uncertain pickup points. A taxi is more valuable late in a complicated journey, with heavy bags, or when several travelers can share one vehicle. Current payment compatibility and airport pickup arrangements must be checked rather than assumed.