Luzhniki Aqua Complex
Originally known as the Central Lenin Stadium when it was opened in 1956, the Luzhniki Sports Complex hosted the Olympics in 1980 and the final game of the FIFA World Cup earlier this summer. Apart from an 80,000-person stadium, the complex also contains two outdoor pools perfect for cooling down during Moscow’s hot summer days.
Visitors to the Luzhniki Aqua Complex can opt for a sports ticket, which provides access to the 50-meter lane swimming pool (Zone A), or a sports and recreation ticket, which provides access to both Zone A and a 21-meter recreational pool (Zone B). Visitors are provided with a colored bracelet depending on their ticket, and that gives them access to the complex and changing rooms. The changing rooms are basic but clean and have everything you would require, including a sauna to unwind after a swim.
The outdoor pool area has light wooden decking and makes use of the surrounding natural grass. The pools themselves are accessed by walking through an area with loungers and a sand volleyball court. There is a café nestled in between the two swimming pools that has a relaxed vibe with no music playing.
The sports pool was deep enough for anyone wishing to practice diving, while the recreational pool was shallower and more suitable for young children and families. Overall, there was a good mixture of families, groups, couples, and individuals with only a few selfie sticks.
Passes are for 90 or 180 minutes and range from 800 to 1900 rubles, depending on the day and time period. Towel rentals are an additional 200 rubles.
24 Ulitsa Luzhniki. Metro Vorobyovy Gory. www.aqua-luzhniki.ru/