Moscow vs Beijing - City Size Comparison

Is Moscow Bigger Than Beijing?

Beijing is significantly larger, covering 6.5 times the area of Moscow. Beijing spans 16,411 km² (6,336 mi²) while Moscow covers 2,511 km² (970 mi²) — a difference of 13,900 km². You could fit Moscow inside Beijing approximately 6 times.

About Moscow

Russia's capital and largest city. Known as "The Third Rome", Moscow covers 2,511 km² with a population of 12.5 million. The city was established in 1147. Moscow is known for The Kremlin, Red Square, Saint Basil's Cathedral, among other attractions. The city's main transit system is the Moscow Metro.

Moscow's metro stations are considered some of the most beautiful in the world, often called 'underground palaces'

About Beijing

China's capital and political center. Also known as "The Northern Capital", Beijing has an area of 16,411 km² and is home to 21.5 million people. Its history stretches back to 1045 BC. Visitors come for The Forbidden City, Great Wall of China, Temple of Heaven, and much more. Getting around is easy with the Beijing Subway.

Beijing's administrative area of 16,411 km² makes it larger than many small countries

Metropolitan Area Comparison

Looking beyond city limits, the Beijing metropolitan area covers 16,411 km², which is 2.8x larger than greater Moscow at 5,891 km². The Beijing metro area is also more populous, with 21.5 million people compared to 17.1 million.

Population Density

Moscow has a population density of 4,994 people per km² — a moderately dense city. Beijing, with 1,313 people per km², is a relatively spread-out city. Moscow is dramatically more crowded, with 3.8x the population density.

Climate & Time Zone

Both cities share a humid continental climate, though local geography creates distinct microclimates in each. When it's noon in Beijing, it's 7:00 AM in Moscow — a 5-hour time difference.