Lokomotiv

Lokomotiv Stadium (RZD Arena): Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance in Moscow

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in Moscow’s Cherkizovo district, Lokomotiv Stadium—officially known as RZD Arena—stands as a vibrant testament to Russia’s football tradition and industrial legacy. Since its grand reopening in 2002, it has not only hosted passionate football showdowns as the home of FC Lokomotiv Moscow (a club born from the nation’s railway heritage in 1922), but also served as a cultural and architectural landmark reflecting Moscow’s post-Soviet evolution. With its blend of classic English football ground aesthetics and innovative design—featuring prism-inspired stands and a pylon-supported roof—the stadium accommodates up to 27,000 fans, offering an intimate and electrifying matchday experience.

Beyond football, RZD Arena acts as a cultural hub. Its locomotive motifs, club museum, and guided tours immerse visitors in the intertwined histories of Moscow’s railways and football culture. Thanks to its convenient location near Cherkizovskaya metro station, accessing not only the stadium but also nearby attractions like Izmailovsky Park, the Museum of the Moscow Railway, and the Izmailovo Kremlin is exceptionally easy.

Whether you’re attending a high-stakes Russian Premier League fixture—such as the Moscow Derby against CSKA Moscow—or exploring Moscow’s rich sporting and industrial heritage, a visit to RZD Arena is essential. For the latest on visiting hours, tickets, and travel tips, consult the official FC Lokomotiv Moscow website (RZD Arena Official Site), (StadiumDB), (Football Tripper).

Lokomotiv MCC station train on elevated tracks in Moscow

Image of a yellow and blue MCC train locomotive at Lokomotiv MCC station

MCC station locomotive 6617 at Lokomotiv MCC station platform

MCC station platform with train arriving

Electric train at MCC Lokomotiv station in Moscow

Lokomotiv MCC station with train on tracks

MCC train arriving at Lokomotiv MCC station platform

MCC station locomotive 6630 at Lokomotiv MCC station

MCC station with locomotive and platform

Introduction
History and Cultural Significance
Architectural Features and Urban Context

Historical Foundations
Modernization and Design
Facilities and Accessibility
Sustainability Initiatives

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
Accessibility and Travel Tips
Matchday Experience and Stadium Tours
Nearby Attractions and Local Culture
Practical Visitor Tips and FAQs
Conclusion

1. History and Cultural Significance

Lokomotiv Moscow was founded in 1922 as the football team of Soviet railway workers, a heritage still reflected in its name, club emblem, and traditions. The original Stalinets Stadium was built in 1935 for Moscow’s electric workers, holding about 30,000 spectators, and embodied the communal spirit of Soviet sports infrastructure (Wikipedia). Today’s stadium, opened in 2002 after a comprehensive reconstruction, symbolizes Moscow’s transition from Soviet-era pragmatism to modern, fan-focused sporting venues.

With three Russian Premier League titles, ten Russian Cups, and three Russian Super Cups, Lokomotiv Moscow has established itself as a football powerhouse (Official Lokomotiv Moscow Website). The club’s deep ties to the railway industry are celebrated throughout the stadium, from its locomotive sculpture at the entrance to the memorabilia in the on-site museum.

2. Architectural Features and Urban Context

Historical Foundations and Modernization

The present RZD Arena sits on the site of the old Lokomotiv Stadium, which was itself a replacement for the Stalinets ground. The current structure, completed in 2002 under architect Andrei Romanov and Mosprojekt 4, cost approximately $150–170 million and was funded by the Ministry of Transportation (StadiumDB). The design draws inspiration from classic English football grounds, with steep, U-shaped stands and a capacity of over 27,000.

Structural and Visual Highlights

Seating Bowl: Two tiers, separated by business skyboxes, foster an energetic atmosphere and excellent sightlines (Old Stadium Journey).
Prism-Inspired Stands: The U-shaped configuration opens to the south, enhancing accessibility and visual openness. The use of metal triangular girders and expanded mesh panels results in a striking, airy façade (Factsgem), (Arch Group).
Roof and Lighting: Four 55-meter pylons support the roof, with translucent panels providing natural light. Integrated lighting ensures optimal visibility for evening matches.

Facilities and Accessibility

VIP Areas: Glass-covered skyboxes and a dedicated VIP lounge in the West Stand provide premium experiences (Arch Group).
Team Facilities: Modern locker rooms, coaching offices, and medical suites meet international standards.
Inclusivity: The stadium is fully accessible, with ramps, elevators, designated seating, and assistive technologies for disabled visitors (Factsgem).
Playing Surface: A hybrid grass pitch combines natural and synthetic fibers for durability and quality.

Ancillary Facilities

Training Complex: Adjacent practice fields and a minor arena support youth development and community sports.
Rollerdrome: A glass passage connects the stadium to a two-story Rollerdrome, expanding its utility for events.

Sustainability

RZD Arena incorporates lightweight materials, natural ventilation, and energy-efficient lighting. While not extensively documented, these features reflect a growing commitment to sustainability (StadiumDB).

3. Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

Matchdays: The stadium opens 1.5–2 hours before kickoff and closes about an hour after the final whistle.
Guided Tours: Available by appointment, typically from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Tours include access to locker rooms, VIP areas, and the club museum.
Tickets: Purchase online via the official website or at stadium box offices. Prices range from 500 to 3,000 RUB, depending on event and seating.
Museum: Open during tour hours, featuring exhibits on the club’s history and railway heritage.

4. Accessibility and Travel Tips

Metro: The stadium is a five-minute walk from Cherkizovskaya station (Sokolnicheskaya/Red Line), ensuring fast access from central Moscow (Football Tripper).
Train: Suburban trains serve nearby Cherkizovo station.
Taxi/Ride-Sharing: Yandex.Taxi and Uber provide convenient service.
Bus/Trolleybus: Multiple routes stop near the arena, though metro is preferred during busy events.
Parking: Limited spaces available; public transport is recommended.
Disabled Access: All facilities are accessible, with clear signage and support staff.

5. Matchday Experience and Stadium Tours

Atmosphere: Lokomotiv’s “Railroaders” supporters create a lively, family-friendly environment. The compact stadium design amplifies chants and cheers (Factsgem).
Concessions: Russian snacks and soft drinks available at multiple kiosks; alcohol is not sold inside the stadium.
Merchandise: The official club shop offers jerseys, scarves, and souvenirs.
Tours: Include access to dressing rooms, the players’ tunnel, pitchside, and the President’s office (Football-Stadiums.co.uk).

6. Nearby Attractions and Local Culture

Izmailovsky Park: Expansive green space for relaxation and recreation.
Izmailovo Kremlin & Market: Cultural complex and market for crafts, antiques, and souvenirs.
Museum of the Moscow Railway: Celebrates the city’s railway legacy.
Red Square & Kremlin: Accessible via metro for a deeper dive into Moscow’s history (Holidify).
Museum of Cosmonautics: Explore Russia’s achievements in space.

7. Practical Visitor Tips and FAQs

Essential Tips

Language: Russian is primary, but English is spoken at main venues and on signage.
Safety: The area is well-patrolled on event days; usual city vigilance applies (Hikersbay).
Payment: Both cash (rubles) and cards are accepted.
Weather: Summer (May–September) offers mild temperatures; dress accordingly.
Photography: Personal photography is permitted; professional equipment may require permission.
Dress Code: Casual, but club colors are encouraged.

FAQs

Q: What are the RZD Arena visiting hours?
A: Matchday entry starts 1.5–2 hours before kickoff; tours run 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (check the official website for updates).

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Online via the official site or at the stadium box office.

Q: Is the stadium family-friendly?
A: Yes, with designated family areas and child-friendly amenities.

Q: Is RZD Arena accessible for disabled visitors?
A: Fully equipped with ramps, elevators, and accessible seating.

Q: What are nearby attractions?
A: Izmailovsky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Museum of the Moscow Railway, and central Moscow sites.

8. Conclusion

RZD Arena is more than a football stadium: it’s a living monument to Moscow’s sporting, industrial, and cultural heritage. Combining architectural innovation with deep-rooted traditions, it offers visitors not only thrilling matchdays but also an opportunity to explore Moscow’s history and community spirit. For a seamless experience, purchase tickets through official channels, plan your visit using up-to-date information, and enjoy the rich array of nearby attractions.