2003 honda crv cruise control fuse

Fuse box diagram

Fuses and relay Honda CR-V 2002-2006

For the Honda CR-V 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005,2006 model year.

Fuse box located.

Engine bay.

The under-hood fuse box is located in th eengine compartment on the driver’s side.

fuse box diagram.

Fuses in the vehicle passenger compartment CR-V 2002-2006.

The interior fuse box is underneath the steering column.To remove the fuse box lid, pull it toward you and take the lid out of its hinges.

codes as follows,

2003 Honda CR-V fuse box diagram

The 2003 Honda CR-V has 2 different fuse boxes:

Honda CR-V fuse box diagrams change across years, pick the right year of your vehicle: 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 Petrol 2007 Diesel 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998

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Honda cr-v (2002 – 2004) – fuse box diagram.

Year of production: 2002, 2003, 2004

Interior fuse box

The interior fuse box is underneath the steering column.

Under – hood fuse box

The under-hood fuse box is located in the engine compartment on the driver’s side.

WARNING: Terminal and harness assignments for individual connectors will vary depending on vehicle equipment level, model, and market.

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• Gen 2 CR-V: 2002-2006 (UK 2002-2007)

Cruise Control won't engage

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• Replaced the Brake Switch (at the pedal) with a new Honda OEM part and adjusted to the service manual specs
• Followed the Troubleshooting steps outlined in the Factory Service Manual (mostly continuity and voltage tests)
• Replaced the CC logic board unit pulled from a 2003 CR-V from the junkyard
• Replaced the CC left side switch pulled from the same 2003
• Replaced the steering wheel CC combo switch (set/cancel/resume) pulled from the same 2003
• Replaced the CC Actuator (servo) in the engine compartment with pulled from the 2003

The SET button does not require a 2-second press to engage (at least, it doesn't on our 2006). that said, is it possible your V has rodent damage (chewed wires)? For sure, find a helper (or a LONGGG set of meter reads).If your V is FWD, you could get the front wheels off the ground and the engine could spin them. Trans range sw: any difference if you bump the shifter while trying to engage?  

Buff, Good ideas... keep 'em coming. Thanks for the update about the set button. It is AWD, and I edited my original post. I've crawled under the dash a lot in order to troubleshoot this problem and to correct the door lock problem (posted in another thread), and I'm not seeing any sign of rodents. Yes, I did try bumping/nudging the shifter. Thanks -Doug  

Corroded/shorted trailer socket.  

Thanks, but, no trailer wiring. -Doug  

Did you do the continuity check thru the clock spring? It is just that you seemed to have done just about everything else  

Yeah, cable reel, clock spring .. same thing. It allows the steering wheel to turn and keep all the electrical connections to the steering wheel controls So apparently you have checked the continuity thru the clock spring? This should mean that the MICU is getting the proper inputs Did you check the output from the MICU to the throttle position actuator?  

Don’t know if you’ve already done this... How about giving a look a the actuator cable attachment to the throttle body? Over on the Element website, they have a number of folks where the actuator cable has physically broken out of the throttle body. The linkage to the throttle body is unfortunately made out of plastic. Of course, check the free play of the cable too.  

The CR-V bracket at the throttle body is metal and yes all appears to be ok there. Thanks -Doug  

At this point you need to get a wiring diagram of the CC itself to follow it and check all the connections and wiring conditions. Without this diagram were chasing rodents in a circle.  

Storm... I have been using the wiring diagrams, and more particularly I have gone through all the troubleshooting steps in the Service Manual, which also just mostly tests wiring connections.  

Well, it seems that you found part of the problem. Clock spring. The intermittent "on" after 20 tries to catch once. The voltage thru the clock spring should remain consistent with the commands from the switches as indicated by the manual. Sounds like the cruise control unit is trying to follow commands But, when it can not then it turns off the light. It is possible the actuator or the cables are not functioning properly How to test? IDK, sorry. Good luck.  

I'm trying to track down a problem with my Cruise Control where after engaging for a few seconds, something is causing the Cruise Control to disengage. I've worked all the typical 'fixes': fuses, Brake Switch, etc. I swapped various parts and verified there are no LED taillights. While researching the problem, I found this message on another forum where the vehicle was a 2007 Honda Odessey. "The way to know for sure is to take it to someone who has a professional scan tool and you can look at the last 10 cruise control disconnect commands. Something is likely commanding it off and the computer will store that info." I'd very much like to know the 'disconnect commands' the computer is seeing. Can anyone tell me if my 2002 CR-V would have these commands 'stored', and available to the right scan tool? Thanks -Doug  

What is the link to that forum so others can see what is said and described?  

Cruise Control Fuse?

Merged duplicate threads.  

I think here requires a shop that can lift the CRV if AWD and test the CC to see what is the cause of the failure to set the CC. Just a DIY can't do this unless you can lift and test is in actual drive mode to see what is happening.  

The service manual does not list a condition of turning on the cruise control and setting the speed only to turn off after a few moments. So, I believe that the cruise control turns on. It also sets the speed (remember the speed must be at or above 30 mph). But, when it does not get feedback that all is well then it turn itself off.  

It appears that you might have another bad cable, perhaps a ground connection. Look for the CC ground terminal. I believe the CC gets signal from speed sensor. Test the buttons on steering wheel but wiggle them as you test for continuity, something is loosing connection. Check for a loose connection in the wiring.  

new-2-me-CR_V said: Test the buttons on steering wheel but wiggle them as you test for continuity, something is loosing connection. Check for a loose connection in the wiring. Click to expand...

On page 4-44, control unit input test, Engine electrical Pin 1, Brown with white stripe, test condition is to connect battery power to pin test result desired- Check the operation of the magnetic clutch: Clutch should click and output link should be locked. Since your result is not staying locked, possible causes are - Faulty actuator, Poor ground (G201), An open in the wire, Short to ground I think they are talking about the brown/white wire between cruise control unit and the actuator Looking at the schematic, that is pin 1 on cruise control unit and pin 2 on the cruise control actuator The actuator has the ground G201 which is pin 1. The test for the actuator is on page 4-47 Location of ground G201 appears to be on page 22A-17 right (passenger) front near bumper Body electrical. Hope this helps  

I did have to remove the front bumper cover, but I was able to find that G201 ground location. But, nothing looks amiss there. I was able to get continuity between that whirl of ground wires and the pin 1 on the actuator plug (and pin 3). Good idea though..  

Did you test the brown with white stripe wire for short to ground or open? Also, is the actuator working/engaging?  

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Fuse Box Diagrams

All automotive fuse box diagrams in one place

Honda CR-V (2002-2006) fuses

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In this article, we consider the second-generation Honda CR-V, produced from 2002 to 2006. Here you will find fuse box diagrams of Honda CR-V 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006 , get information about the location of the fuse panels inside the car, and learn about the assignment of each fuse (fuse layout).

See other Honda CR-V:

Fuse Layout Honda CR-V 2002-2006

Cigar lighter (power outlet) fuses in the Honda CR-V are the fuses #2 (Rear Accessory Power Socket) and #18 (Front Accessory Power Socket) in the Instrument panel fuse box.

Table of Contents

Fuse box location

Passenger compartment.

Engine compartment

Fuse box diagrams

2002, 2003, 2004, instrument panel.

Secondary Fuse Box

Learn more:

all fuse and relay box with diagram

Honda CR-V 2G (2002 – 2006) fuse and relay

The 2 nd generation Honda CR-V was produced in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006 with body designations: rd4 rd5 rd6, rd7, rd8, rd9. During this time, the model has been restyled. In this material, we will present a description of the Honda CRV 2 fuses and relays with fuse box diagrams, photographs and locations. Note the cigarette lighter fuse.

The location of the blocks and the purpose of the elements in them may differ from those shown and depend on the year of manufacture, the region of delivery and the level of equipment of your car.

Wrong generation of model or diagram do not fit?

[ Description of Honda CRV 5 ] [ Description of Honda CRV 4 ] [ Description of Honda CRV 3 ] [ Description of Honda CRV 1 ]

• 1.1 Location
• 1.2 Fuse and relay box
• 1.3 Additional elements
• 2.1 Location
• 2.2 Main fuse and relay box
• 2.3 Additional fuse and relay box

Passenger compartment

• Hatch closing relay
• Hatch opening relay
• Front socket relay
• Low beam relay
• Daytime running light relay

Fuse and relay box

• Keyless Entry Receiver
• Daytime running lights control unit

In the cabin, the main fuse and relay box is located at the bottom of the instrument panel, on the driver’s side.

To access, remove the protective cover.

Designation

Additional elements

• Immobilizer control unit (receiver)
• Seat heating relay
• Automatic Transmission Reverse Relay Air Fuel Ratio (A/F) Sensor Relay
• Engine control module/transmission control module (ECM/PCM)
• Electric mirror heating relay
• Shift Interlock Relay, Seat Heater Main Relay (AT)
• Rear Accessory Power Connector Relay
• Ignition Coil Relay Automatic Reverse Transmission Relay
• Main Relay PGM-FI #1
• Main relay PGM-FI #2

Separately, at the rear, a unit responsible for the operation of the rear wiper is installed.

Engine compartment

There are two fuse/ relay boxes in the engine compartment, under the hood next to the battery: (1) the main fuse and relay box and (2) the secondary fuse and relay box.

Main fuse and relay box

To access, remove the protective cover of the unit. The box itself will look something like this.

Appointment

Additional fuse and relay box

There is something to add – write in the comments.

Related posts:

• Honda Civic (1990 – 1995) fuse and relay
• Honda Civic (2012 – 2015) fuse and relay
• Honda Odyssey (2018 – 2023) fuse and relay
• Honda Elysion 1 (2004 – 2014) fuse and relay

exellent information , thanks

I recently bought a 2004 CR-V and it does not have the secondary fuse box under the hood. Where would those fuses be?

Saya beli Crv gen 2 2005. Info ini sangat berguna untuk saya. Terima kasih.

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2003 - Cruise control stopped working

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cruise control not working suddenly. I had the brake light switch replaced a few weeks ago because the gear was stuck in park. Sometime after this the cruise stopped working, but I can't really say it was immediately after because I didn't notice. I had the mechanic who replaced the switch check it again to make sure the wires were hooked up and he said it was. The cruise light does not come on within the pushbutton switch nor does the cruise control engage with the wheel controls. The horn does work and I checked fuse 6. Thanks!  

Take a look at this very similar thread. I think your brake light switch has not been correctly adjusted. http://www.piloteers.org/forums/14-problems/18571-cruise-control-problem.html  

cruise control I just checked that and adjusted it again, but still not working. I even pushed the plunger of the switch down as far as it can go with my finger and the cruise control light does not turn on. I'll meter the actual contacts of the switch to make sure, but it seems like that's not the problem. Anyone know how to test the cruise control computer/actuator?  

I got the bulb from my local Honda parts counter. Part is shown under "switch" on parts lists. Bulbs were pc 19 or 20 (part of pc 21) on drawing. I believe pc 20 is the cruise bulb, pc 19 is back light for cruise and VSA switch. Your 2003 may be different. This drawing is for a 2005 EXL. Honda Automotive Parts  

You'll find this thread helpful. http://www.piloteers.org/forums/14-...hboard-lights-2.html?postid=322347#post322347  

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Genuine Honda CR-V Fuse

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41 Fuses found

Honda CR-V Fuse A, Multi Block (100A/70A)

• 2007-2011 Honda CR-V | 5 Door EX (2WD), 5 Door EX (4WD), 5 Door EX-L (2WD), 5 Door EX-L (4WD), 5 Door LX (2WD), 5 Door LX (4WD), 5 Door SE (2WD), 5 Door SE (4WD) | KA 5AT

Honda CR-V Fuse, Blade (20A)

• Other Name : Mini Fuse; Fuse
• 2007-2021 Honda CR-V | 5 Door EX (2WD), 5 Door EX (4WD), 5 Door EX (AWD), 5 Door EX-L (2WD), 5 Door EX-L (4WD), 5 Door EX-L (AWD), 5 Door LX (2WD), 5 Door LX (4WD), 5 Door LX (AWD), 5 Door SE (2WD), 5 Door SE (4WD), 5 Door SE (AWD), 5 Door Touring (2WD), 5 Door Touring (AWD) | KA 5AT, KA CVT

Honda CR-V Fuse, Blade (10A)

Honda CR-V Fuse, Multi Block

• 2017-2021 Honda CR-V | 5 Door EX (2WD), 5 Door EX (AWD), 5 Door EX-L (2WD), 5 Door EX-L (AWD), 5 Door LX (2WD), 5 Door LX (AWD), 5 Door Touring (2WD), 5 Door Touring (AWD) | KA CVT

Honda CR-V Fuse, Block (100A)

• Other Name : Fuse
• Replaces : 38218-SM4-000
• 1997-2006 Honda CR-V | 5 Door EX, 5 Door EX (2WD), 5 Door EX (4WD), 5 Door LX (2WD), 5 Door LX (4WD), 5 Door SE | KA 4AT, KA 5AT, KA 5MT, KL 4AT, KL 5MT

Honda CR-V Fuse, Blade (15A)

Honda CR-V Fuse, Blade (7.5A)

Honda CR-V Fuse, Mini (20A)

• 2012-2016 Honda CR-V | 5 Door EX (2WD), 5 Door EX (AWD), 5 Door EX-L (2WD), 5 Door EX-L (AWD), 5 Door LX (2WD), 5 Door LX (AWD), 5 Door SE (2WD), 5 Door SE (AWD), 5 Door Touring (2WD), 5 Door Touring (AWD) | KA 5AT, KA CVT

Honda CR-V Fuse, Mini (7.5A)

• 1997-2011 Honda CR-V | 5 Door EX, 5 Door EX (2WD), 5 Door EX (4WD), 5 Door EX-L (2WD), 5 Door EX-L (4WD), 5 Door LX (2WD), 5 Door LX (4WD), 5 Door SE, 5 Door SE (2WD), 5 Door SE (4WD) | KA 4AT, KA 5AT, KA 5MT, KL 4AT, KL 5MT

Honda CR-V Fuse, Mini (10A)

Honda CR-V Fuse, Mini (15A)

Honda CR-V Fuse, Block (40A)

• Other Name : Fusible Link; Fuse
• Replaces : 38212-SM4-000
• 1997-2001 Honda CR-V | 5 Door EX, 5 Door LX (2WD), 5 Door LX (4WD), 5 Door SE | KA 4AT, KA 5MT, KL 4AT, KL 5MT

Honda CR-V Fuse, Block (50A)

• Replaces : 38213-SM4-000
• 2002-2006 Honda CR-V | 5 Door EX, 5 Door EX (2WD), 5 Door EX (4WD), 5 Door LX (2WD), 5 Door LX (4WD), 5 Door SE | KA 4AT, KA 5AT, KA 5MT

• 2017-2021 Honda CR-V | 5 Door EX (2WD), 5 Door EX (AWD), 5 Door EX-L (2WD), 5 Door EX-L (AWD), 5 Door Touring (2WD), 5 Door Touring (AWD) | KA CVT

Honda CR-V Fuse A, Multi Block (80A/50A)

• 2014 Honda CR-V | 5 Door EX (2WD), 5 Door EX (AWD), 5 Door EX-L (2WD), 5 Door EX-L (AWD) | KA 5AT

Honda CR-V Fuse B, Multi Block (40A/50A)

• Other Name : Maxi Fuse

Honda CR-V Fuse, Block (30A)

• Replaces : 38211-SM4-000

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Cruise Control Fuse?

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Can anyone tell me which fuse controls the cruise control on a 2007 EX-L. My main cruise indicator light comes on when I turn the cruise on, but then I am not able to set the cruise. If it is not the fuse, could it be a faulty switch? Thank you in advance for any help.  

Lots of things it could be. There are quite a few fuses. Fuses 7 & 13 in the underhood fuse box, fuse 7, 18, and 21 in the drivers under dash fuse box are all associated with the cruise control. I doubt it's a fuse but it doesn't hurt to check those first. The second thing I'd suspect is a bad brake pedal position switch. It has four pins on it. Pins 1 & 2 should be normally open and pins 3 & 4 should be normally closed. Then when you step on the brake pins 1 & 2 should close and 3 & 4 should open. You can check the switch with an ohm meter. Below is the wiring diagram for cruise control: http://www.revbase.com/BBBMotor/Wd/DownloadPdf?id=140867 It could also be a problem in the cable reel (sometimes called a clockspring) in the steering column. Do your radio buttons (if installed) work? It could also be the transmission range position switch. The way to know for sure is to take it to someone who has a professional scan tool and you can look at the last 10 cruise control disconnect commands. Something is likely commanding it off and the computer will store that info.  

Thank you John. I checked the fuses you listed and all look good. The next thing you mentioned was the brake pedal position switch. If the lights are working properly could it still be the switch? If so, do I need to remove the switch in order to test it? I just purchased the vehicle and the dealer claims that the cruise was working when he drove it around for a day. He did do other repairs to it and seems to be trustworthy, as far as used car dealers go. Also, the radio buttons on the steering wheel seems to be functioning properly. Thank you for your help,  

If you look at the diagram you can see it's a four pin switch with two separate switches in the brake pedal switch so, yes, it's possible for the brake lights to work and the cruise control not to work--it's fairly common, actually. The brake lights are on the normally open side so when you press the brake, the switch closes, and the brake lights go on. The cruise is on the normally closed side so that side of the switch has to be making good contact all the time for the cruise to work. When you press the brake it opens that switch and the cruise turns off. If that side of the switch is dirty, corroded, or burned then the cruise won't activate. If you can reach up in there with a meter and test it you don't have to remove it. Sometimes it's actually easier to just remove it, get it on the bench and check it.  

So I was not sure if I was testing the brake switch correctly so I went ahead and replaced it being that it was out and a new one was only $5. Took it for a test drive and still no luck. As I said above the other buttons are working on the steering wheel, so I was wondering if it could be a bad cruise control button on the steering wheel. Would that be worth a try before I bring it in somewhere? Thanks you  

For $5 I'm guessing what you got is pretty low quality. If you have one I would recommend getting out an ohm meter and checking the original switch. Pins 1 (Red wire) and 2 (white/black wire) should be open. Pins 3 (black/red wire) and 4 (brown wire) should be closed. When you activate the switch the pins 1 and 2 should close and 3 and 4 should open. Even if the switch wasn't the problem your original switch is probably going to be better quality than the $5 aftermarket switch you put in there.  

are any warning lights "ON" in the car? Your cruise control will most likely not work if any other system is throwing a warning. Also, how are you you "turning the cruise on"? Not to offend, but could be a user error?  

I tested the brake switch the way you described and both tested good so I put the old one back in. Glad they are easy to change. I push the "cruise" button and the green light comes on, on the dash. Then when I push the "set" button, nothing happens. I have seen online that the "cruise" button is known for failing and people have glued them down, but that is not the issue I am having. It stays pushed in, I just cant set it afterwards. Tonight for the first time I got the tire pressure warning, but no codes to speak of. All brake lights are working also, a friend of mine said that some cars the cruise can stop working if a brake light is out, but that is not applicable here. Any other info would be greatly appreiciated.  

just to confirm, you are trying to set the cruise control going over 30 or so mph, right? Cruise control requires minimum speed to activate.  

To finish up this thread, the problem was with the switch. I removed the switch to make sure I could get it out before I ordered a replacement. As long as I had it out, I thought I would take it apart to see if anything was visibly wrong with it. I found liquid residue on the circuit board that collected wear the set button is located because it is the bottom of the switch when vertical. I gently scratched it off with my finger nail. Put it back together and now she works. My guess is when they detailed the van at the dealership they got a little carried away with their cleaning product. Thank you to all who helped on this.  

DanKitz said: To finish up this thread, the problem was with the switch. I removed the switch to make sure I could get it out before I ordered a replacement. As long as I had it out, I thought I would take it apart to see if anything was visibly wrong with it. I found liquid residue on the circuit board that collected wear the set button is located because it is the bottom of the switch when vertical. I gently scratched it off with my finger nail. Put it back together and now she works. My guess is when they detailed the van at the dealership they got a little carried away with their cleaning product. Thank you to all who helped on this. [/QUOTE Hi DanKitz, I am having the same issue & wanted to ask you if the switch was easy to remove? I think that’s where I should start before I have to possibly take it somewhere. Thank you, Dawn Click to expand...

Thanks for posting back. I'm glad it turned out to be something easy.  

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Fuse box diagrams, fuse layouts and assignment

Honda CR-V (2012-2016) Fuse Diagram

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Fuse box diagram (fuse layout), location, and assignment of fuses and relays Honda CR-V Mk4 (RM1, RM3, RM4) (2012-2016).

Checking and Replacing Fuses

If something electrical in your vehicle stops working, check for a blown fuse first. Determine from the chart, or the diagram on the fuse box lid, which fuse or fuses control that device. Check those fuses first, but check all the fuses before deciding that a blown fuse is the cause. Replace any blown fuses, and check if the device works.

• Turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0). Turn headlights and all accessories off.
• Remove the fuse box cover.
• Check each of the large fuses in the under-hood fuse box by looking through the top at the wire inside. Removing these fuses requires a Phillips-head screwdriver.
• Inspect the small fuses in the engine compartment and the vehicle interior. If there is a burned out fuse, remove it with the fuse puller and replace it with a new one.
• Look for a burned wire inside the fuse. If it is burned, replace it with one of the spare fuses of the same rating or lower. If you cannot drive the car without fixing the problem, and you do not have a spare fuse, take a fuse of the same rating or a lower rating from one of the other circuits. Make sure you can do without that circuit temporarily (such as the accessory socket or radio). If you replace the blown fuse with a spare fuse that has a lower rating, it might blow out again. This does not indicate anything wrong. Replace the fuse with one of the correct rating as soon as you can.
• If the replacement fuse of the same rating blows in a short time, there is probably a serious electrical problem in your car. Leave the blown fuse in that circuit and have your car checked by a qualified technician.
• Replacing a fuse with one that has a higher rating greatly increases the chances of damaging the electrical system.
• Never replace a broken fuse with anything other than a new fuse.
• There is a fuse puller on the back of the engine compartment fuse box cover.

Passenger Compartment Fuse Box Diagram

Located under the dashboard.

Engine Compartment Fuse Box Diagram

Located near the brake fluid reservoir. Push the tabs to open the box.

Shooter Files by f.d. walker

Street Photography Tips, Interaction, Travel, Guides

Apr 24 2017

City Street Guides by f.d. walker: A Street Photography Guide to Moscow, Russia

*A series of guides on shooting Street Photography in cities around the world. Find the best spots to shoot, things to capture, street walks, street tips, safety concerns, and more for cities around the world. I have personally researched, explored and shot Street Photography in every city that I create a guide for. So you can be ready to capture the streets as soon as you step outside with your camera!

At over 12 million people, Moscow is the largest city in Russia and second largest in Europe by population ( Istanbul is #1). An urban, cosmopolitan metropolis with more than enough glitz and glam to cater to the elite, but without losing its fair share of Soviet era roughness around the edges. It can be fast paced, brash, busy, and trendy like other big cities, but it has its blend of West meets Russia atmosphere and beauty that provides plenty of unique interest. The Red Square is as famous as it gets, but there’s so much more to this city, including the most beautiful subway system you’ve ever seen. It would take years to capture all of Moscow, but that means you have an endless amount of areas to discover.

So here’s a Street Photography guide so you can be ready to capture all that Moscow has to offer before you even arrive!

• Patriarch’s Pond
• Old Arbat Street
• Maroseyka Street
• Tverskoy Boulevard

Top 5 Street Spots:

1. red square.

The Red Square is the most famous square in not just Russia, but all of Eastern Europe. The name actually doesn’t come from the color of the bricks or communism, but from the name in Russian, Krásnaya, once meaning “beautiful” before its meaning changed to “red.” This large plaza is what you see on the cover of guide books and magazines for Moscow, with St. Basil’s Cathedral being the center piece next to Lenin’s Mausoleum surrounded by the Kremlin Wall. Of course, the Red Square attracts hordes of tourist due to the main attractions, but all that activity around an interesting atmosphere does provide street photo opportunities. It’s also the central square connecting to the city’s major streets, providing a good starting point to explore outward.

You’ll also find the popular pedestrian only Nikolskaya Street connecting the Red Square to Lubyanka Square. This line of expensive shops includes plenty of activity, while also leading you to another popular square. Filled with history rivaling any city, the Red Square and surrounding areas are the heart and soul of Russia.

2. Patriarch’s Ponds

Patriarch’s Ponds is one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Moscow. Despite the name being plural, there’s only one large pond, but it’s worth a visit with your camera. It’s a popular spot for locals and expats to come relax or take a stroll around the pond. You get an interesting mix of young and old too, from young love to “babushkas” feeding pigeons. It’s a very peaceful park atmosphere in one of the nicer areas within the city center, while bringing enough activity for street photography. 

The pond is shallow and in the winter becomes a popular spot for ice-skating too. The area is also well-known for the location in the famous Russian novel, The Master and Margarita. 

3. Old Arbat (Stary Arbat)

Old Arbat is the most famous pedestrian street in Moscow, and dating back to the 15th century, also one of its oldest. Originally, it was an area of trade, but soon became the most prestigious residential area in Moscow. During the 18th century, Arbat started attracting the city’s scholars and artists, including Alexander Pushkin. Cafes lined the streets and impressive homes filled the neighborhood. Since then, New Arbat street was created as a highway in the area, while Old Arbat was paved for a 1km pedestrian only walkway.

Due to the historic buildings, famous artists that lived here, and the bohemian atmosphere, Old Arbat has become a big attraction for tourists today. Now, there’s a mix of cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, street performers, street merchants and other attractions for visitors, and some locals, to come enjoy. It can get really busy here and there’s usually something interesting going on so it’s a good street to come walk with your camera for guaranteed life.

4. Gorky Park

One of the most famous places in Moscow is Gorky Park. The official name is Maxim Gorky’s Central Park of Culture & Leisure, which gives you an idea of what goes on here. When built, it was the first of its kind in the Soviet Union. Divided into two parts, it stretches along Moscow River. One end contains fair rides, foods stands, tennis courts, a sports club, a lake for boat rides, and more. This end brings more active life due to its number of attractions, while the other end is more relaxed, where you’ll find gardens, trees, older buildings, and an outdoor amphitheater.

Gorky Park attracts mostly locals so it’s a good spot to capture the non-tourist side of Moscow life. Muscovites come here to escape the city and unwind in a picturesque setting. The park remains alive outside of the warmer months too, especially when the lake turns into the city’s largest outdoor skating rink. I’d recommend taking the metro out here to spend at least half a day exploring the massive park’s life with your camera.

5. Maroseyka Street

Maroseyka Street is a popular area not too far from the Red Square. The long, winding street turns into Pokrovka and is lined with restaurants, cafes, bars and places to stay. It’s actually where I like to stay when I’m in Moscow due to its location and solid street photography opportunities itself. You have Kitay-gorod station near and if you keep walking southwest, you’ll get to the Red Square. But if you walk northwest, as it changes to Pokrovka, you can find a long street of activity for photography with its own interesting atmosphere.

6. Tverskoy Boulevard

Tverskoy Boulevard is the oldest and longest boulevard in Moscow, beginning at the end of Nikitsky Boulevard, and finishing at Pushkin Square, a spot to come for activity itself. The boulevard is made up of two avenues, with pedestrian walkways in-between. You’ll find grass, shrubbery, trees, benches and more walking it’s almost kilometer length. Many people come here to enjoy some relaxation, walk their dog, or just to use it to walk wherever they’re going. Its center location also provides a nice place to walk with your camera near plenty of other spots you’ll want to check out anyway.

Sample Street Walk:

For a full day of Street Photography, covering some of the best spots, you can follow this sample street walk for Moscow:

• Start your morning walking around the Red Square (1), while exploring the surrounding area, including Nikolskaya Street
• Then walk northwest to Patriarch’s Ponds (2) and slowly walk the pond and surrounding area with your camera
• Next, walk east to the Pushkin Monument and stroll down Tverskoy Boulevard (6)
• Once Tverskoy Boulevard (6) ends, it will turn into Nikitsky Boulevard. Follow this down until you get to the start of Old Arbat Street (3), across from Arbatskaya station
• After you’re done walking down Old Arbat Street (3) for more street photography, spend some time checking out Moscow’s beautiful metro stations
• To finish off the day with more street photography, get off the metro near Red Square (1) again, Maroseyka Street (5) or wherever you’re staying for the night.

3 Things I’ll Remember about Shooting in Moscow:

1. museum metro.

The Moscow metro system was the first underground railway system in the Soviet Union and today includes 203 stations across 340km of routes. The elaborate system has some of the deepest stations in the world too, with escalators that seem to go on forever. None of this is what makes it so special, though. Many of its stations feel like stepping inside a museum, making it without a doubt the most interesting and beautiful metro system I’ve been in.

When built, Stalin wanted to make the metro stations “palaces for the people” with marble, chandeliers, and grand architecture. The best part is the variety of architecture and styles used, making many of the stations a completely different experience visually. You could easily spend a whole day traveling the stations and there are even tours available for people who wish to do just that. My advice, though, would be just to buy a ticket and hop on and off at different stations, while exploring different lines. The museum-like surrounding mixed with the crowds of characters can make for a great photography experience.

Since there are so many stations, here are some of my favorites to check out:

• Novoslobodskaya
• Mayakovskaya
• Elektrozavodskaya
• Komsomolskaya
• Ploschad Revolyutsii
• Dostoyevskaya
• Prospekt Mira

2. Moscow is Big

It’s no secret that Moscow is a big city, but it can feel even bigger with how spread out much of it is. This is especially true if you compare it to cities outside of Asia. If I compared it to cities in Europe, I’d probably say only Istanbul would warrant more time to really discover the depths of this city. Most only explore around the Red Square and surrounding area, but that is such a small part of the city. Although, that central area does give you plenty to see on its own.

Fortunately, I had a good friend living in the city to show me around, but it opened up my eyes even more to how much there is to discover in Moscow. It’s a big city with a variety of atmosphere that can take you from “east” to “west” and trendy to rugged depending on where you go. I’d imagine you’d have to live here a while to really know the city.

3. Cosmopolitan Mix of East meets West

Modern skyscrapers mixed with amazing architecture, a world-class metro system with museum-like beauty, trendy fashion and chic clubs, Moscow is a rich mix of Russian culture and history in a more western cosmopolitan package. There is a push to keep the Russian culture, while also pushing forward with a modern metropolis the whole world will envy. This comes with an impressive skyline, that continues to grow, and endless modernities, but with soviet nostalgia and atmosphere mixed in for good measure.

Mixed in with this grand western cosmopolitan atmosphere, is a strong national pride in Russia. This includes their famous leader, Vladimir Putin. Maybe no other place will you see a country’s leader more often. All over, from the pricey tourist shops to the underground walkway stalls, you’ll find goods with Putin’s likeness covering them. From t-shirts to magnets to Matryoshka dolls. There’s a strong national pride that can be seen around the city, which also extends to their leader. Moscow is many things. It’s East meets West, modernizations meets Soviet era, and a whole lot more.

What To Do For a Street Photography Break?:

Eat at a stolovaya.

Stolovayas are Russian cafeterias that became popular in the Soviet days. You grab a tray and walk down the line of freshly prepared local dishes, and select whatever you want from the chefs. They’re usually inexpensive and a much better value than restaurants, while giving you the opportunity to try from a wide selection of everyday Russian food. They’re also very tasty. I always include some borsch on my tray and go from there. The places themselves are all over Moscow and usually come with Soviet-era aesthetics to complete the experience.

Street Safety Score: 7

*As always, no place is completely safe! So when I talk about safety, I’m speaking in general comparison to other places. Always take precaution, be smart, observe your surroundings and trust your instincts anywhere you go!

Being the 2nd largest city in Europe with over 12 million people, you’re going to have your dangerous areas, but for the most part, it feels safe walking around. Russia is statistically higher in crime compared to most of Europe, but this generally doesn’t apply to tourists and visitors. Around the Red Square and surrounding city center, you should feel completely safe walking around. Pick pocketing can happen, but no more than other touristic places. I always explore Moscow freely without coming across too much to worry about. It’s a spread out city, though, so of course it matters where you are. Just use basic street smarts, know where you are and Moscow shouldn’t give you a problem. 

People’s Reaction Score: 7

Moscow is fast paced, big city life, which usually means people aren’t too concerned with you, or your camera. I don’t find people notice or pay much attention to me when I’m out taking photos in Moscow. For the most part, people just go about their day. You shouldn’t get too many looks or concern. But it can depend on the area you are in. The more you stick out, the more you might get noticed with suspicions. I’ve never had any problems in Moscow, or Russia, but just be careful who you’re taking a photo of if you get out of the city center. Other than that, it’s about average for reactions. 

Street Tips:

Learn the alphabet .

Much of Moscow, including the metro system, doesn’t use english. The Russian alphabet uses letters from the Cyrillic script, which if you aren’t familiar with it and don’t know the sounds, can be hard to decipher the words. This is most important for street names and metro stops when trying to get around. It can save confusion and make it easier getting around if you learn the basic alphabet. At the very least then, you can sound out the words to see which are similar in the english conversion, which can help matching them to maps. When out shooting street photography, getting around is as important as anything. So save yourself some time and frustration by learning the Russian Alphabet.

Use the metro

While Saint-Petersburg feels very walkable for a city its size, Moscow can feel very spread out, even for its bigger size. Outside of the Red Square area, you can have plenty of walking before getting anywhere very interesting, so you’ll need to take the metro a lot if you really want to explore the city. Maps are deceiving here too, it will always be further than it looks.

Another reason it’s less walkable than Saint-Petersburg is its completely different set-up. Moscow’s streets are mostly contstructed in rings with narrow, winding streets in-between. This is common with medieval city cities that used to be confined by walls, but you usually don’t have it in a city this massive. Saint-Petersburg has a more grid-like pattern that also uses the canals to help you know your way around. When it comes to navigating on foot in Moscow, it can be more difficult, so bring a map and take the metro when needed. It’s why Moscow’s metro carries more passengers per day than the London and Paris subways combined.

Explore other areas if you have time

Moscow is really big. While most people stay around the Red Square within the Boulevard Ring, there’s so much more to the city. I covered some other spots outside of this circle, but if you really want to see the city, you’ll need time. If you do have time, some other areas I’d check out first are Zamoskvarechye, along some of the south and western Moscow.

Inspiration:

For some more inspiration, you can look through the Street Photography of Moscow photographer Artem Zhitenev  and check out 33 of my photos taken in Moscow .

Conclusion:

Moscow’s name brings a certain mystique, but once you’re there it might bring a different atmosphere than you expect. It’s big and sprawling, but beautiful in many ways. It can feel like a European capital on a grand scale, but you can definitely find its Russian side in there.

The urban sprawl of Moscow can be intimidating, but give it enough time and you’ll be rewarded with plenty to discover. All with the world’s best metro system to take you around.

I hope this guide can help you start to experience some of what Moscow contains. So grab your camera and capture all that Moscow has to offer for Street Photography!

If you still have any questions about shooting in Moscow, feel free to comment below or email me!

(I want to make these guides as valuable as possible for all of you so add any ideas on improvements, including addition requests, in the comment section!)

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Kuznetski Most area in Moscow

Kuznetski Most is a small area between Tverskaya street, Kremlin, and Kitai Gorod (Lubyanka) and it's a downtown of Moscow. First of all, 'Kuznya' is a great place to walk: it is a real Moscow area, not a postcard at all, hectic busy streets neighbour tranquil lanes and courtyards with traditional architecture. There are also many very nice cafes, restaurants, clubs, and shops. If you want a cool place to meet people, go for a walk and to get the real feeling of the city, check out this area.

Long time ago there were only half-broken low wooden houses in Kuznetski Most area, and it was the place where poor blacksmithes lived. Blacksmith is 'Kuznets' in Russia, hence the name. In the beginning of the street (on top) there was a bridge over a small river, later this river was put underground, so there's no bridge anymore. About 200 years ago there was a rich Moscovitan noble buying this area. He immediately put away all the blacksmiths' houses and started to build a fancy new district. Just in few years he built up beautiful houses, with impressive ornaments, rich decoration, pools in the courtyards. Also, he opened some French boutiques in the area. That's when Kuznetski Most started to become fashionable. In a short time all the elite moved to this  area, and those who wasn't so fast were coming here to make some shopping and to sit in many of the restaurants and cafes around.  In the 20th century, when the communist times arrived, most of the buildings were given to government offices, some were given to soviet shops. The area became boring, the architecture was slowly deteriorating , but nobody seemed to care. In the beginning of the 90s  the area was revived again: the buildings were  restored , there was many new cafes being opened, boutiques, and shops. One important landmark of Kuznetsky Most is that it's home to FSB (Federal Security Bureau - former KGB) offices, and if you walk along Kuznetsky Most street you can get to the FSB reception, which is open 24 hours (in case you have something to report).  

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