Arriving at Domodedovo with children requires some planning. The airport itself is modern and well-equipped, but the onward journey to Moscow has a few family-specific considerations.
The terminal with kids
DME is a large, modern terminal with smooth floors suitable for pushchairs. There are lifts between levels, baby changing facilities in the restrooms, and a pharmacy in the arrivals area. The immigration queue is the main challenge — it can take over an hour with no seating, which is tough with small children. If possible, have one parent queue while the other keeps children entertained in the nearby seating areas.
After customs, the arrivals hall has shops and cafes if you need to regroup before heading into Moscow.
Aeroexpress with children
The Aeroexpress train is genuinely family-friendly. Carriages are spacious with luggage racks, and the ride is smooth. Children under 5 travel free, and ages 5–7 get discounted tickets. The platform is accessible from the terminal without going outside.
The challenge comes at Paveletskaya station in Moscow. The metro connection involves escalators and corridors that are difficult with a pushchair and heavy luggage. Some stations have lifts, but they are not always working or easy to find. If your hotel is directly accessible from Paveletskaya, the Aeroexpress is ideal. If you need to transfer across multiple metro lines, it becomes impractical with young children.
Child seats in vehicles
Russian law requires child restraints for children under 12. In practice:
- Yandex Go taxis do not reliably provide child seats. You can request one in the app, but availability is not guaranteed.
- Private transfers can arrange child seats, booster seats, and infant carriers when requested at booking. This is the most reliable option.
- Bringing your own travel seat is the safest bet if you want guaranteed compliance.
Luggage with a family
A family of four typically has luggage that exceeds what a standard sedan can comfortably carry. Yandex Go's standard class may send a compact car. For private transfers, you specify your group size and luggage count, and an appropriate vehicle — usually a minivan or large sedan — is assigned.
Recommended approach
For families with children under 6, a private transfer directly to your hotel is the most practical option. It costs 40–60 EUR to central Moscow and eliminates the metro navigation problem entirely. The driver meets you at arrivals, handles luggage, provides a child seat, and takes you door to door.
For families with older children who travel light, the Aeroexpress is a fun and efficient experience — kids often enjoy the train ride. Just be prepared for the station transfer at the other end.