russian tourism companies

• Trip Planner
• Private Tours
• Small Group Tours

Two Capitals

• City Breaks

Trans-Siberian

• River Cruises
• Russia & Beyond

4-star edition of the private 9-day tour of the Russian capitals

5-star edition fo the private 9-day tour of Moscow & St. Petersburg

13-day in-depth discovery of Moscow, Kazan, and St. Petersburg

7-day tour designed to harness the best of the Venice of the North

11-day private discovery of Moscow, St. Petersburg, and the Golden Ring

Your Russia Getaway

Fill out the short trip survey to receive a personalized itinerary from a destination expert.

• Travel guide
• Before you go
• What to see

Russia Trip Planner

Learn about the dos and the don'ts for your amazing trip to Russia

• Our Partners
• Reservation Policies

Rated 9/10 on the Trustpilot review platform

• My itineraries
• Chat with us
• Trip survey

Groups & Agents

• For Suppliers

+1 (888) 744-6056

• North America : +1 (888) 744-6056
• Oceania and Australia : +61261888118

Where Journeys to Russia Begin

Award-winning Private & Small Group Tours to Russia

Award-winning Private & Small Group Tours to Russia.

START PLANNING TODAY

START PLANNING

Due to the current geopolitical situation, we temporarily stopped accepting new bookings for travel to Russia.

Russian Journey of Your Lifetime

St. petersburg, volga river, golden ring, the world-leading company for tours to russia..

To this day, we have organized more than 200,000 trips to Russia, private and small group, Trans-Siberian and Volga river cruises . Our tours have become the golden standard for the industry of inbound travel to Russia. Each year, we take thousands to Russia and show them the very best of this enigmatic country.

Learn more about our history and values

Our Approach

Plan with us because we care about your journey..

We cared from the very start of our company when we helped around-the-world travelers to cross Siberia, and we continue to work with simple, yet powerful principles. We work with the very best suppliers, with the best hotels, with best guides, with the best transportation companies. We negotiate the very best rates, and we pass many of the savings to our customers offering a remarkable overall quality of service and travel experience.

Discover more about how we plan your trip

We are rated 4.9 based on 422 reviews

WOW. From the choice of hotels, amazingly planned itineraries, to the amazing guides and drivers, and, of course, the stunning cities of Moscow and St Petersburg. No long queues for museums, churches, and palaces entries. I would gladly recommend using Travel All Russia to anyone.

- Chris Wimpenny from Australia traveled to Russia in 2020

• Call us now
• Request a call
• Chat on WhatsApp
• Start Live chat
• Contact via email

Moscow & St. Petersburg Small Group Tours Private Tour Packages Trans-Siberian Trips Russian River Cruises Moscow Tour Packages St. Petersburg Tours All Russia Tours

Why Travel to Russia Best Time to Visit Russia Russian Visa Information Tips Before Traveling Tips on Arrival Russian Currency Moscow Travel Guide Read More in Our Blog

Hermitage Museum Church of the Savior on Blood The Kremlin Sergiev Posad, Golden Ring Kizhi Island The Red Square Siberia Lake Baikal

Fla. Seller of Travel Ref. No. ST39939 All Rights Reserved © 2024 About Us | Testimonials  | Our Blog  |  Terms of Service  | Privacy Policy  

• #Luxury travel
• #Unusual Moscow
• #Jewish Heritage
• #Russian traditions

• #Saint Petersburg
• #Photospots

The capital city with a thousand options

The city you will fall in love

The popular tourist route with the network of ancient towns north-east of Moscow

• #Golden Ring

Read our articles and discover Russia’s tourist attractions, ways to learn its traditions and culture, top activities and interesting places, world-famous museums and hidden gems, and much more that’ll inspire you to come and see Russia.

These are some of our hand-picked tours and itineraries that will let you get the most out of your trip to Russia. Choose one of ready programs or customize it and create your own trip!

• 9 excursions

• 4 excursions

• 6 excursions

• 3 excursions

Practical information for your trip to Russia

Share the best of Russia on our networks

We use cookies to improve your experience on our Website, tailor content, and measure advertising. By continuing to use our Website, you accept our Privacy Policy .

Your request has been sent successfully! Our travel expert will contact you shortly.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

• Testimonials
• Search Trip
• Trans-Siberian Tours
• Saint Petersburg
• Northern Lights
• Lake Baikal
• Russia For Expats
• Winter Trains
• Arctic & North
• Golden Ring
• Russia Cruises
• Trans-Mongolian
• Sightseeing
• Trans Siberian
• Wildlife & Nature
• The Snow Empire
• Under 8 Days
• Kid Friendly
• Small Groups
• Senior Travels
• Expats Travel
• Luxury Trains
• Luxury Travels
• Russian Cruises
• Snowmobile Tours
• Youth Travel
• Why Book with Us
• Sustainable Travel
• At a glance
• Dates & Rates
• Terms & conditions

Browse tours by travel themes

Providing you with the best russian tours, our reviews, russian travel update.

Russia is open for international travelers regardless their citizenship/country of residence. Tourist visas are being issued in the USA, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the UK, EU, Japan, and worldwide. Electronic visas (up to 16 days of stay, single entry) are available for the following nationals: Austria, Andorra, Bahrain, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Croatia, Cyprus, China, Czech Republic, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Iran, Ireland, Iceland, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Latvia, Lithuania, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Myanmar, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Oman, Poland, Portugal, Philippines, Romania, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, Sweden, Taiwan, Turkey, Vatican, Vietnam.

You can bring foreign currency and exchange money freely in Russia. You can open a bank account and g et a debit card in one hour time, once you will have arrived, we assist.

Medical insurance is available for international travelers through Russian insurance companies.

International flights to Moscow and St Petersburg are available via Tbilisi (Georgia), Yerevan (Armenia), Baku (Azerbaijan), Istanbul (Turkey), Belgrade (Serbia), Dubai & Abu-Dhabi (UEA), Doha (Qatar), Algiers (Algeria),Tehran (Iran), Muscat (Oman), Cairo (Egypt), Astana & Almaty (Kazakhstan), Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, Shenzhen, Qingdao & Xian (China), Delhi (India), Colombo (Sri-Lanka), Male (Maldives). Information changes frequently, please inquire.

Trans-Siberian travels can fly in/out Vladivostok via Beijing (China), Harbin (China), Bangkok (Thailand), Tashkent (Uzbekistan).

Trans-Siberians taking off in Irkutsk/Lake Baikal, fly to Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan), Dushanbe (Tadjikistan), Namangan (Uzbekistan), Osh (Uzbekistan), Beijing Daxing (China), Bangkok (Thailand), Ulaaanbaatar (Mongolia).

Explore the best travel destinations in Russia with our wide range of sightseeing tours to Moscow, St Petersburg, Golden Ring, Kazan; Northern Lights viewing tours; wildlife & nature tours to Lake Baikal tours, Altai, Kamchatka tours, Trans-Siberian train tours, and more. Find the best guided trips and expert planned Russian holidays 2023-2024.

Thank you! One of your our travel experts will contact you within 24 hours.

• Sign up for newsletter

• Tourist visa to Russia
• Business visa to Russia
• St. Petersburg tours
• Moscow tours
• Golden Ring tours
• Tours in Karelia
• Tours in the Urals
• Baikal tours
• Tours in Siberia
• Tours in other Russian cities
• Hotels in Russia
• Russian B&B and hostels
• Apartments in Russia
• About Transsib
• Trans-Siberian packages
• Transsib train tickets
• Trans-Siberian tours
• Transsib Accommodation
• Transfers in Russian cities
• Russian Train Tickets
• Russian Plane Tickets
• Russian Theater Tickets
• Russian Folklore
• Special Offers
• For Cruise Tourists
• FIFA Confederations Cup 2017
• FIFA World Cup 2018
• UEFA EURO 2021
• Privacy Policy
• Payment Options
• Terms & Conditions
• Reservation
• Travel Tips for Russia
• Tourist Destinations in Russia

Travel to Russia from Russian tour-operator

Tours in Moscow →

Tours in St.Petersburg →

Trans Siberian Travel →

Golden Ring Tours →

Baikal tours →

Valaam & Kizhi Tours →

Russian Train Trips →

For Cruise Tourists →

We are glad to offer you our Magic Kaleidoscope of Tours and everything for travelling to Russia — and have a variety of choice for your individual trip to Russian Federation.

We are ready and happy to help you to organize your trip to Russia and arrange everything so as to make your stay in Russia pleasant and unforgettable!

10 Best Russia Tour Operators 2024 [Unbiased & With Reviews]

10 best russia tour operators 2024.

Are you planning to visit Russia, but unsure which tour provider to select? Now, you no longer have to waste time searching the internet and filling out dozens of contact forms. Simply fill out ONE form, we’ll send it off to multiple tour providers and they’ll contact YOU! You’ll be able to compare rates and find the lowest cost tour for the most affordable trip abroad.

Get Free Quotes From 10 Best Russia Tour Operators

Have you been thinking about an exciting trip to amazing Russia? Are you interested in enjoying a memorable tour in Russia ? Does the idea of visiting Russia with the top tour company sound great to you?

Russia, the world’s largest country, boasts a diverse landscape with castles, mountains, and frozen lands, complemented by exceptional cuisine. Whether in St Petersburg, Moscow, or Siberia, Russia offers opportunities to explore the Tundra and witness the Northern Lights. Enjoy skiing, visit volcanoes, palaces, and castles, and indulge in a vodka production tour.

Choosing the right tour company is crucial for a memorable trip to Russia. With numerous options available, investing in a top-rated company can save you time and money, ensuring a fun, safe, and regret-free adventure.

We strongly believe that without comprehensive and analytical research, you may end up spending a lot of money and time on a company that does not have your best interest. With our help, you will find well-researched and analyzed information about the top 10 tour companies in Russia to help make a solid and informed decision.

Continue reading to explore the top 10 highly rated tour companies in Russia and their best travel packages.

Table update Jan 19, 2024

Volgograd Sputnik Travel Company

As one of the Russia’s oldest tour operators, Volgograd Sputnik Travel Company has been providing travel-related services since 1991. The key focus of their tour is the city of Volgograd itself. This leading tour operator offers day-tours, excursions and even virtual tours of Volgograd and its surrounding areas. The company is led by a team of dedicated and friendly tour guides that will help you make the most of your visit throughout your stay. They believe in receiving their foreign guests with a positive attitude and thus, invite you on a tour of Volgograd.

Volgograd Sputnik Travel Company Best Russia Tour Packages

This company organizes many different activities for you to be a part of in their tour packages. Honor Soviet war heroes in their historic 3 Day Stalingrad Battlefield Tour . You will visit different sights along the Volga and Don rivers and see places of historical importance in this tour.

Don’t miss out on their sightseeing tour of Hero-City Volgograd . See major sights from the WW II era like the Alley of Heroes, Peace Street, Eternal Flame and many more.

The company also offers a unique tour of Rossoshka where you can observe German and Soviet cemeteries. The central attraction of this tour is a famous sculpture named the “Mourning Mother”.

Volgograd Sputnik Travel Company Reviews

Volgograd Sputnik’s long-standing history is marked by praises and appreciation from the many tourists they have served. This Russian travel company has 326 reviews on TripAdvisor and is ranked as #1 of 17 Tours & Activities in Volgograd. A past customer of theirs wrote:

Went on the big tour of Stalingrad this morning was out for about 5 hours with my man Mikhail. A bit pricey but a good engaging overview chauffeured and one on one… Alexander

Read all reviews of Volgograd Sputnik Travel Company on TripAdvisor .

Explore the diverse landscapes of Hungary by joining one of the 10 Best Hungary Tour Operators , guaranteeing an immersive and enjoyable trip.

Flotilla Radisson Royal

If you are looking for a luxurious cruise experience in Moscow then look no further than Flotilla Radisson Royal ! This top-reviewed Russian travel operator provides excellent tours on the Moscow River where you can enjoy the best views of Moscow. They have a fleet of 10 ice-class yachts that are fully serviced for sightseeing tours as well as large private gatherings. The team at Flotilla Radisson Royal is highly specialized in bringing you the comfort you seek on your trip to Russia.

Flotilla Radisson Royal Best Russia Tour Packages

Flotilla Radisson Royal provides a large array of tour packages on their first-class luxury yachts.

The company offers one of the most unique yacht cruises through the display of theatre! Book their Dinner with a Classic boat tour where you will watch an Italian drama performance. Enjoy the bewitching sights of Moscow city while fine-dining on special Italian dishes.

Their services also extend to themed cruises on their yachts. You can call ahead and book a customizable cruise. They offer sightseeing, romantic, theatrical, literary, family and gastronomic tours in this package.

You can also go on regular yacht cruises according to their yacht schedule. They will take you on a round-trip of Russia’s popular attractions.

Flotilla Radisson Royal Reviews

This tour company in Russia provides an interesting mix of exciting and luxurious boat trips that all customers seem to like. They have 1,127 reviews on TripAdvisor, out of which most are 5-star ratings. They are ranked as #2 of 96 Boat Tours & Water Sports in Moscow. A satisfied customer wrote:

This was a surprise for me by my partner and daughter. Getting onto the boat was very orderly, and our table was gratefully in a good position so Moscow at night could be appreciated… Pete17 Read all reviews of Flotilla Radisson Royal on TripAdvisor

ExploRussia

ExploRussia is a leading Russian tour operator that specializes in creating exceptional tours for global travelers seeking an authentic and local perspective in Russia. The agency is one of the best when it comes to showcasing Russia’s historical landmarks, beautiful landscapes, and contemporary culture. The company was first established in 2012 with the aim of responsible tourism in mind. Comprising a team of passionate and young entrepreneurs, the company is dedicated to bring you a fantastic vacation in Russia with personalized attention and off-the-beaten-track exploration.

ExploRussia Best Russia Tour Packages

The team at ExploRussia goes the extra mile with their tour packages to ensure that you have an unforgettable experience in their country.

You can choose to go on their Moscow Off the Beaten Path Tour where you will experience the local culture of Moscow without being in crowded streets. Explore the Orthodox Church, taste different Russian food and discover the major sights like Kremlin, Red Square and Bolshoi Theatre.

 You can also explore traditional markets with your own local tour guide on their Moscow Food Tour . You will discover enchanting Russian cuisine and taste different kinds of food items that are remnants of the USSR.

For an adventurous journey, travel to the mountains of Altai near Moscow. In this 6 day tour of the Altai Mountains, you will be in close contact with nature while camping and horse-riding around local villages.

ExploRussia Reviews

As the pioneers of responsible tourism in Russia, ExploRussia has set a great example to other local and international tour companies. This Russian tour operator has 595 reviews on TripAdvisor and is ranked at the top as #1 of 1,116 Shopping in Central Russia. A recent customer of theirs wrote:

When I reached out to Olga from ExploRussia , she was already invested in my request , asking the right questions and pointing out the possibilities… Hassan M

Read all reviews of ExploRussia on TripAdvisor .

 Explore the cultural treasures of Turkey by choosing one of the 10 Best Turkey Tour Operators , providing expert guidance.

St. Petersburg Guided Tours

St. Petersburg Guided Tours , founded in 2005, is a locally owned travel company in Russia. The company is founded by Valeria Grigoryeva, a licensed and qualified tour guide. They operate private and customized free tours. Their services include walking adventures, cultural, and historical tours. The guides are highly qualified professionals passionate about Russia’s history with extensive experience in the local and international travel industry. With this company, you will certainly have a memorable time traveling through the Russian countryside.

St. Petersburg Guided Tours Best Russia Tour Packages

For more than 15 years, St. Petersburg Guided Tours has improved and perfected fun, authentic, and luxury Russian tours to select from .

If you are looking to spend quality time with your partner, you can choose their  Romantic Getaway Tour . On this excursion, you will visit the Empress Alexandra residence built in 1829.

You can also join the  2-Day comfort Tour  carefully planned for you to see many city sights of St. Petersburg without waiting or standing in line.

They also have a popular  1-Day Private Tour  that will give you value for your money by taking you for a day tour in St. Petersburg. After visiting famous museums, you will be introduced to traditional foods and vodka tasting.

St. Petersburg Guided Tours Reviews

This local tour operator in Russia has no shortage of great reviews and satisfied clients. They are ranked as #2 of 670 Tours & Activities in St. Petersburg and have 156 reviews on TripAdvisor. A customer that toured with them recently wrote:

Everything was very well organised by Valeria, from helping us with choosing the right accommodation, preparation of visas and including the right places to visit… Dmitri L

Read all reviews of St. Petersburg Guided Tours on TripAdvisor .

Archer Tour

Archer Tour is a local Russian travel agency that provides group and individual tours of major sights in Russia. Their aim is not to give you a lot of tours but to make each tour worthy and memorable. They also offer tailor-made and custom tours that you can plan according to your requirements. As a company, Archer Tour is continuously improving their services and trying to be one of the best tour companies in Russia. Your vacation to Russia will be worthwhile and entertaining with Archer Tour at your side!

Archer Tour Best Russia Tour Packages

From private and corporate escorts to boat trips, paragliding and flights, the range of tour packages that Archer Tour provides is absolutely immense.

Take their Sightseeing Tour of Kaliningrad and discover a unique blend of German and Soviet architecture. You can see museums, churches and military fortifications in this diverse tour package.

Also, their Baltiysk and Yantarny Tour provide historical background into Russia’s important monuments. In this trip, you can take a ferry to Vistula Spit as well as visit an amber factory and see amber production up close!

Archer Tour also provides VIP tours upon customers’ request. You will get the best luxury services, the highest level on comfort and a visit to the top locations and restaurants in their tailor-made VIP tours.

Ahtilahti Best Russia Tour Packages

Ahtilahti’s quality of service regarding their tours and tour packages are unmatched and they’ll ensure that you have the best vacation of your life in Russia.

Plan ahead and go on a Kayaking Tour of the Oredezh River . This trip is perfect for beginner rafters since there are no challenging rapids. You will get to enjoy the tranquil nature while having an exciting experience.

For a winter tour, you can opt for their phenomenal Skating Tour on Lake Baikal . As the oldest lake on Earth, Lake Baikal has a special wonder to it. Your guide will accompany you as you skate, have fun and enjoy the Siberian landscape in this amazing journey.

Explore their hometown of Kaliningrad on a road-trip . In this 7 day tour, Ahtilahti will take you a thrilling journey that covers all of Kaliningrad’s major as well as non-trivial attractions for a truly immersive experience.

Ahtilahti Reviews

Considered one of the most unique travel agencies in Russia, few companies can accomplish what Ahtilahti has accomplished through their tours. They have 171 reviews on TripAdvisor and are ranked as #2 of 157 Boat Tours & Water Sports in St. Petersburg. This is what a satisfied customer said about them:

Excellent experience with SUPsurfing starting from narrow channel in SpB center and going to Neva river. Surfing is safe, supervised by both guiedes Asja and Dmitry… Dr D

Read all reviews of Ahtilahti on TripAdvisor .

As a fully licensed tour company in Russia, Alla Tours proudly offers the best tour and travel services in Russia. Established in 2005, the company is renowned for its top-notch tour guides and detailed itineraries. Their top priority is offering fulfilling, safe, and authentic tours for travelers worldwide. Based in St. Petersburg, Alla Tours has also developed tour excursions across Europe and the Baltic region. With personalized service in mind, Alla Tours will take you on a trip across Russia that will be imprinted in your memory for a lifetime!

Alla Tours Best Russia Tour Packages

With years of service in the tourism industry, Alla Tours offers an extensive array of tour packages in Russia to choose from. You can join their  1-day St. Petersburg Intro Tour  and visit many spectacular venues, including the Peterhof Fountains and Garden and the Hermitage Museum. On this guided private walking tour of St. Petersburg, Russia, you will be able to see the city through the eyes of the locals.

If you have more time, you can take the  2-day St. Petersburg Royal Tour  and combine top-ranked sights with a shore excursion. The tour is perfect for discovering Russia’s modern art, architecture, canals, and rivers.

Comfort is an essential factor during a vacation trip so the  2-Day St. Petersburg Comfort Tour  combines top attractions, including the Church of the Spilled Blood, Hermitage Museum, and Peterhof Fountain Park.

Alla Tours Reviews

Alla Tours is a Russian tour operator that is well-respected by international as well as local tour companies. Their 4,798 reviews on TripAdvisor are a evidence to their top-notch service. They are ranked as #8 of 670 Tours & Activities in St. Petersburg. A past client of theirs wrote:

A full 2 day tour picked up from our cruise ship. Gives a great taste of all the major attractions. Not cheap but fully worth the cost. Cannot recommend highly enough… Mark_Dornoch

Read all reviews of Alla Tours on TripAdvisor .

Embark on a Scandinavian getaway in Finland. Join one of the 10 Best Finland Tour Operators , guaranteeing a memorable and relaxing vacation.

Moscow Private Tours

Moscow Private Tours , founded in 2011, is one of the highest-reviewed tour companies in Russia. They cater exclusively to private and small groups ensuring the best quality service. They are the #1 Rated Private Tours in Moscow. They have their tourists’ best interests in mind and their tours are personalized, child-friendly and have flexible timings. Their tour guides are highly trained locals that will look after you on your trip. Your trip to Russia will be made easier and hassle-free through this company’s continuous efforts.

Moscow Private Tours Best Russia Tour Packages

Catering to small and private groups, Moscow Private Tours’ various tour packages are enjoyable and all-inclusive.

Enjoy the complete Kremlin experience on their Kremlin and Armoury Tour . Visit the State Kremlin Palace, see the Tsar Cannon and Tsar Bell and immerse yourself into medieval history and architecture, Soviet heritage and imperial treasures in this popular tour package.

Moscow looks the prettiest during the night. Go on their Night Moscow Tour with a private guide and see its major attractions like the Bolshoi Theatre and St Basil’s Cathedral.

Embrace the cultural swirl of Russian cuisine through their Russian Food Tour . From borscht to pancakes, eat your way through 3 different eateries and learn about traditional Russian food and their origins.

Moscow Private Tours Reviews

As one of the best-rated tour operators in Russia, Moscow Private Tours has a spectacular track record of many satisfactory clients. They are ranked as #9 of 540 Tours & Activities in all of Moscow and have over 1300 reviews on TripAdvisor. A customer who visited them recently wrote:

Very nice boat tour around Moscow with good dinner and excellent tour guide (Maria). Thanks for your service. I recommend it… Seradi155

Read all reviews of Moscow Private Tours on TripAdvisor .

Discover the natural wonders of the Czech Republic by joining one of the 10 Best Czech Republic Tour Operators , promising an unforgettable and eco-friendly adventure.

Bridge to Moscow

With more than 10 years of experience in the tourism industry, Bridge to Moscow is a highly-rated tour operator in Russia. They offer original and professional private tours in Moscow. They apply a personal approach to their customers, viewing them as friends rather than tourists. The company values commitment, safety and reliability above all else. Bridge to Moscow stands out from the rest through their team of licensed multi-lingual tour guides that dedicate all their efforts to bring you an excellent vacation in Russia.

Bridge to Moscow Best Russia Tour Packages

With over 97 detailed travel itineraries, you will have a large selection of tour packages to choose from.

If you are planning a trip to visit Russian churches, you can start with their Sergiev Posad Tour . This early 14 th century monastery holds intricate architecture and soulful history. See their iconic cathedrals, watch the church choir and visit local bakeries in this tour.

For a sightseeing tour of Moscow, you can book their Moscow in 1 Day tour package. You will be able to visit Moscow’s historic center, the Red Square and the presidential and state palaces. Don’t forget to check out their Moscow Metro as well.

Also, you can choose Glimpses of Baikal tour for a nature-infused experience. This 3 day tour will have you travelling through local villages to reach Lake Baikal. Once there, you can admire the breathtaking views of the oldest lake on the planet and its surrounding areas.

Bridge to Moscow Reviews

Bridge to Moscow’s tours has gathered a lot of positive reviews from many tourists that deemed them to be satisfactory. This Russian travel agency has 454 reviews on TripAdvisor and stands as #10 of 540 Tours & Activities in Moscow. A client that recently toured with them wrote:

The metro tour was very very interesting. My son loved it. And our guide Ivan was so friendly and knowledgeable… chandrasekar r

Read all reviews of Bridge to Moscow on TripAdvisor .

White Nights Travel

White Nights Travel is a unique company that offers a wide range of professionally customized private tours in St. Petersburg. The company’s bespoke services make them a popular tour company in Russia that provides programs suitable for seniors, families, and groups with the chance to explore beautiful locations in St. Petersburg. The company caters to tourists from all walks of life and is happy to work within your budget. White Night Travel’s major goal is to give you a different yet authentic Russian experience of a lifetime.

White Nights Travel Best Russia Tour Packages

There are plenty of options you can choose from with White Nights Travel’s tour packages.

The  Walking Tour with Hermitage  is one of the most popular programs the company offers in St. Petersburg. During the trip, you will discover various art galleries, museums, and parks, and in the evening, you will walk to the city center for vodka tasting and street food.

Do not miss out on the world-class five-hour Russia  Golden Tour  that will provide an opportunity to walk to Catherine Palace, Amber Room, and Church of the Spilled Blood.

The  Jewish Heritage Tour  combines a boat ride tour and the Grans Choral Synagogue tour, which offers you a fantastic opportunity to learn Jewish history in Russia with an English-speaking guide.

White Nights Travel Reviews

Their personalized service and attention to detail has led White Nights Travel to become one of the best tour operators in Russia. With over 650 reviews on TripAdvisor, the company is ranked #10 of 670 Tours & Activities in St. Petersburg. A past customer wrote:

Maria was absolutely fabulous showing our group of 8 the beautiful sights of St. Petersburg. She was so good at moving us thru crowds, her English is spectacular… Debra D

Read all reviews of White Nights Travel on TripAdvisor .

Dive into the rich history and culture of Greece. Join one of the 10 Best Greece Tour Operators , ensuring an immersive and authentic experience.

The best time to visit Russia is during the months of May to September. Although Russia is the largest country and weather can vary vastly, the popular cities and locations in Russia will be experiencing a warm weather and long, sunny days during this time.

You can expect to spend around $60 – $80 for a solo traveler staying at a decently rated hotel. This price will cover food, transportation and other fees. For a more luxurious vacation, you will be spending anywhere from $150 – $250.

Russia has a lot of specialties attached to it. From ballet and theatre to vodka and Russian culture, there is a lot to expect. Famous landmarks include Lake Baikal, The Red Square, The Hermitage and Moscow Metro System.

Being the largest country on the planet, there is definitely a lot of area to cover in Russia. However, most of Russia is barren and uninhabitable. For popular tourist destinations, 2 weeks should be enough for a majestic experience of Russian culture, nature and food.

The most iconic Russian dishes include the Blini (Russian pancakes), Pelmeni, Beef Stroganoff, Syrniki, Kasha (porridge), Borscht and Okroshka. Russia is also famous for their world-renowned vodka.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser .

• Moscow Tours

Our 20 Best Moscow Tours of 2022

Join us on an unforgettable tour to Moscow, the capital of Russia. Imagine visiting Red Square, St. Basil’s the Kremlin and more. Moscow is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and one of Russia’s most historical. All of our tours to Moscow are fully customizable and can be adjusted to fit any budget. Our most popular tours are listed below. Please click on the tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page. You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Classic Moscow

This is our most popular Moscow tour that includes all the most prominent sights. You will become acquainted with ancient Russia in the Kremlin, admire Russian art in the Tretyakov Gallery, listen to street musicians as you stroll along the Old Arbat street, and learn about Soviet times on the Moscow Metro tour.

Accommodation

PRIVATE TOUR

A Week in Moscow

This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing.

Weekend in Moscow

This tour is a great way to get acquainted with the capital of Russia if you are short of time. You will see all the main attractions of the city, the most important of which is the Kremlin - the heart of Russia. The tour starts on Friday and can be combined with a business trip.

Group Tour Moscow Break by Intourist

Russia's capital has so much to offer, from the Kremlin and the Metro to the Old Arbat street and the Tretyakov Gallery. Besides these sites, you will also visit a fascinating country estate which today is quite off the beaten path, Gorky Estate, where the Soviet leader Lenin spent the last months of his life.

Kolomenskoye Tour with transport

The history of Kolomenskoye stretches back for centuries. In 1380, Dmitri Donskoi’s army passed through Kolomenskoye on their way to the Kulikovo battlefield, and it was...

Tours by car

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Armory Tour

The Kremlin is truly a fascinating structure, at the same time it is an ancient tower, the city’s former military fortification, a palace, an armory, the sovereign treasury...

Walking tours

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals, Armory, Diamond Fund Tour

Old Arbat walking tour

You will be told of the street’s interesting history and view the street’s artisan culture. You will also have the opportunity to view and purchase souvenirs from the...

Tour to Sergiev Posad with transport

Considered by some to be the Russian Vatican, Sergiev Posad is the temporary residence of the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Trinity St. Sergius Monastery (Lavra)...

Tour to Kuskovo with transport

The Kuskovo Estate often called the Moscow Versailles due to its perfectly preserved French park, is an example of an 18th century, luxurious Moscow summer residence. Its history...

Tour to Tsaritsyno with transport

The Tsaritsyno Estate is located in the southern part of Moscow. The estate was constructed for Catherine the Great by the Russian architects Bazhenov and Kazakov in a romantic...

Moscow Metro and Old Arbat Tour

The Moscow Metro is one of the largest and most grandly built metro systems in the world. It was meant to be a showcase of the Soviet Union’s achievements for both the Russians...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion and vodka tasting)

Vodka is an important component of Russian life, an element of national identity and everyday culture. We invite you to visit the Vodka Museum and feel the atmosphere of long-gone...

Mikhail Bulgakov Apartment Museum

This apartment museum located close to Patriarch Ponds became the prototype of the "bad apartment" described in the novel "The Master and Margarita." Currently the museum's...

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Diamond Fund Tour

The State Museum of Lev Tolstoy Tour

Take this opportunity to learn more about the Russian writer Lev Tolstoy. During the visit to the museum you will see part of a vast collection of exhibits connected to Tolstoy...

Novodevichy Convent Tour with transport

Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure...

City Tour with Visit to St. Basils & Red Sq. with transport

Panoramic City Tour. This Moscow tour is a great start to your trip and the best way to get acquainted with many of the city’s major highlights. Our professional guide will...

City Tour of Moscow

Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous...

Moscow Metro walking tour

Kremlin, Red Square and Cathedrals Tour

KGB Tour with transport

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to...

Soviet and Post-Soviet Moscow Tour

The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened...

Tretyakov State Gallery Tour

This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and...

Jewish Heritage of Moscow Tour

This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion only)

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

Tours to Moscow

Our Moscow tours are land only meaning that you arrange your own air travel to Russia and our expert staff meets you at the airport and handles everything else from there. Our online Airline Ticket booking system offers some of the most competitive rates to Russia available on the web so if you need tickets, please visit our Russian air ticket center . Rest assured that you will be taken great care of on one of our Moscow tours. Express to Russia has a fully staffed office in Moscow that will help to make your visit fun, informative and unforgettable. Please remember that of all these tours are private and can be adjusted to your taste. You can add, replace or skip some sights; you can add more days to the package or cut the tour short. Our specialists will be glad to help you create the tour of your dreams!

Moscow, a City Like No Other

Moscow is Russia’s largest city with a population of between 12 and 13 million. It is also Europe’s largest city and when you visit Moscow, you can feel it. The layout and architecture of the city is eclectic, ranging from crooked, ancient streets and alleyways to wide, bustling boulevards, from medieval churches to Stalin skyscrapers and to modern, glass buildings towering over everything and of course in the center of it all is the Kremlin and the magnificent Red Square. Moscow is also home to a fantastic, efficient and very beautiful metro system – each station having its own special design. In fact, Express to Russia’s Moscow metro tours and excursions are some of our most popular attractions that we offer. On our Moscow tours, you will see this and more.

Moscow Tours centering on Russian History

Moscow has a long and interesting history and has been the capital of Russia in many of its different iterations – capital of the Grand Duchy of Moscow , the Russian Empire and of course the Soviet Union (who could ever forget the Soviet Union?). Moscow, was founded in the 12th century by Prince Yuri Dolgaruki (Yuri of the long arms – he really did have long arms!). From that time on, it was home to the Russian Tsars until Peter the Great moved the capital to St. Petersburg in 1703. The city has survived invasions and sieges from the Mongols, the Tartars, the Poles, Lithuanians and Napoleon but has always persevered. Our Moscow tours will enlighten you on this great history and give you insights into Muscovites and their unique culture. Our Moscow tours show you what the city is like today but also brings to life the past. Moscow never seems to sleep and is bursting with energy. A Moscow tour with Express to Russia is truly the best way of getting to know Russia’s largest and most vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

What is the best time to visit moscow.

Any time of year is fine depending on what you plan to do. Summertime is pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city and its vibrant atmosphere, but Moscow will be much busier and accommodation is more expensive. Winter can be quite cold but beautiful nonetheless, and this is unproblematic if you intend to spend most of your trip in museums and galleries. There are also various festivals and events organised throughout the year. For more information about the best time to visit, read our guide

How many days are enough in Moscow?

If you plan your itinerary strategically and aren’t averse to a packed schedule, you can cover Moscow’s main sights over a long weekend. Most popular attractions are in the city centre, and the Moscow Metro allows you to cover much ground in a small amount of time. Ensure that your accommodation is fairly central and book tickets in advance, so that you can make the most of your days. For an informative and well-organised day out, check out our Moscow day tours with options to suit all interests.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

As Russia’s capital city, tourists are well accommodated in Moscow. There should be English-speaking staff in restaurants, bars, hotels, shops and attractions in tourist hotspots, and there are also English-speaking tourist police. Transport services have English translations on their maps and English announcements via intercom; alternatively, order taxis from the Yandex Taxi app (Russian Uber), though it’s unlikely that your taxi driver will speak English. If you get stuck and cannot communicate, it’s fine to use Google Translate.

Is it safe to travel to Moscow?

It is no less safe to travel to Moscow than to any European city if you exercise common sense and look after your belongings. As with every city some regions can be more unsavoury than others, but no tourist attractions are located there. The traffic in Moscow is notorious, so exercise caution when crossing roads. Do not take unlicensed taxis; book in advance or take public transport, which is widespread and perfectly safe. If you encounter any problems, look for the special tourist police who can help you. For more information, read our guide about staying safe in Russia .

Our travel brands include

Express to Russia

Join us on Facebook

We invite you to become a fan of our company on Facebook and read Russian news and travel stories. To become a fan, click here .

Join our own Russian Travel, Culture and Literature Club on Facebook. The club was created to be a place for everyone with an interest in Russia to get to know each other and share experiences, stories, pictures and advice. To join our club, please follow this link .

We use cookies to improve your experience on our Website, and to facilitate providing you with services available through our Website. To opt out of non-essential cookies, please click here . By continuing to use our Website, you accept our use of cookies, the terms of our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service . I agree

• Destinations
• For Agencies

Our goal is to provide the highest quality services to make your clients fall in love with Russia.

Whether you are looking to get the most out of a tight budget or prefer premium luxury when discovering Russia, Olta Travel will be your perfect partner.

Let us make your tour to Russia a memorable experience, so you can enjoy a worry-free journey!

• FROM BIG GROUPS TO INDIVIDUALS: we craft a tailored offer for almost any budget, thanks to our distributed network of trusted partners, direct connections with service providers and our own profound knowledge of destinations in Russia. 
• TOP SERVICE GUARANTEE:  We take care of everything to secure travelers’ satisfaction and are prepared to deal with unexpected issues should they arise.
• COMFORTABLE PRICING:  Olta Travel keeps the cost of discovering Russia at a fair, reasonable level because we love our country and seek to share this love with you.
• NATION-SPECIFIC PROGRAMS : based on our experience working with tourists from all parts of the world, we know how to surprise and amaze your compatriots with Russia.

PRIVACY POLICY ON THE PROCESSING OF PERSONAL DATA

This Policy of personal data processing (hereinafter - the Policy) applies to all data that "OLTA Travel" Co. Ltd (hereinafter – Olta Travel) receives from the visitors of website http://www.oltatravel.com (hereinafter "the Website") and explains how it is processing, stored and how the confidentiality is ensured.

1. Processing and use of personal data.

1.1. In this Policy, personal information means any information left by users on the Website of Olta Travel, including Name, Surname, company, email address and other contact information, left in the message.

1.2. The person who left personal data on the Website of Olta Travel, consents to their use, namely:

1.2.1. The inclusion of the email address, name, surname, company name or any other contact information left in the message in the contact database of Olta Travel. The database is hosted in a secure cloud-based customer relationship management service Bitrix 24, as well as on a secure service for newsletters – Unisender.

1.2.2. Receiving email newsletters with news, promotions, special offers and other useful materials, but no more than twice a week. The visitor of the Website at any time has the right to unsubscribe from the mailing list of Olta Travel, by clicking on the unsubscribe link located at the bottom of each letter.

1.2.3. Direct communication with the manager of Olta travel on the treatment of the user.

1.2.4. The use of contact information to show relevant advertisements to users in social networks and the Internet.

1.2.5. For other purposes performed with the individual consent of the user.

2. The collection, storage and protection of personal data.

2.1. All personal data collected on the Website is processed, stored and secured in strict accordance with the provisions of the legislation of the Russian Federation (Federal law of the Russian Federation of 27 July 2006 № 152-FL "On personal data") and the European Union (The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) (EU) 2016/679).

2.2. Olta Travel is taking the necessary legal, organizational and technical measures to protect personal information from unlawful or accidental access, copying, distribution of personal information, as well as other unlawful actions in relation to personal data of users, which include:

•     secure transfer and storage of personal data on secure servers;

•     automated processing of personal data;

•     identification of possible threats to the security of personal data;

•     limiting the number of persons having access to personal data;

•     application of measures of internal regulation of the procedure of working with personal data (internal regulations for employees of Olta Travel);

•     improving methods of collection, storage and processing of data.

2.3. All data received on the Website of Olta Travel are transmitted via a secure https Protocol and stored on servers in secure, cloud-based customer relationship management service Bitrix 24, as well as in safe service for creating email newsletters Unisender.

3. User rights and obligations of Olta Travel.

3.1. Upon the request from the user Olta Travel should:

•        confirm the fact and methods of storage and processing of personal data of users;

•        inform about the method of obtaining personal data of the user;

•        explain the legal bases, objectives and timing of the processing of personal data;

•        in case of personal data leakage, inform the user about it;

•        make changes or delete users ' personal data from the database to stop storing and processing it;

•        warn about the expected cross-border transfer of personal data.

3.2. The user has the right to request the deletion of his personal data by sending an e-mail to [email protected] as well as the exclusion from the email-mailing by clicking on the "Unsubscribe" button located in the body of each letter.

4. Conditions of termination of processing and storage of personal data:

•       company liquidation;

•       a written request for withdrawal of consent or exclusion from the database;

•       at the request of the user, if the data were obtained illegally.

5. Olta Travel is not responsible for information posted by a visitor on the third party websites, links to which can be posted on the Website of Olta Travel.

6. More information about the collection, storage and processing of personal data by Olta Travel, the user may get by sending an email to [email protected] .

Best Russia Luxury Tour Companies

Search 94 Russia tour operators and travel companies, with 339 reviews.

50 Degrees North

Health Safety

Featured Russia Trips

Travel All Russia

Heritage Expeditions

Bravo Asia Tours

Alexander + Roberts

Sign in  to see which companies give additional savings to Travelstride Members (it’s free)

Odysseys Unlimited

Great Rail Journeys

Azamara Club Cruises

Nomadic Expeditions

Insight Vacations

Viking River Cruises

AMA Waterways

Smithsonian Journeys

Authentic Ireland

Affordable Tours

Atlas Travel Web

25 match your criteria (1 - 20 shown)

View Russia trips

Plan your Russia trip

Russia Reviews & Ratings

Trusted Customer

Baltic Capital Cities

Interesting cities with beautiful old towns explored with a guide who knows them inside out. All the cities are different and it was wonderful to visit them in the ...

Harry and Liz Glover

Full on, varied and very interesting.

Trip was great but was spoiled by poor weather - not your...

See all Russia reviews

Related Trips and Tours

Trip planning.

Ukraine-Russia war latest: Russia could be shifting battlefield focus

Russia's focus on the battlefield may be shifting to areas other than around Avdiivka, according to a thinktank. Meanwhile, fire has broken out at a Russian oil refinery after Ukrainian drone attacks. Listen to a Daily podcast on whether the UK should send troops to Ukraine as you scroll.

Wednesday 1 May 2024 10:40, UK

• Fire at oil depot after drone strikes - reports
• Signs Russian battlefield focus could be shifting
• When will US weapons package reach Ukraine?
• Your questions answered: Will Ukraine launch another spring offensive?
• Listen to the Sky News Daily above and  tap here  to follow wherever you get your podcasts
• Live reporting by Lauren Russell

Ukrainian forces defending Chasiv Yar have said they are desperately waiting for more ammunition to arrive from the US. 

Oleh Shyriaiev, commander of Ukraine's 225th Separate Assault Battalion which is fighting in the eastern city, specifically called for long-range weapons.

He said long-range missiles will "cut (Russian forces) off from logistics and supplies".

Mr Shyriaiev also called for cluster munitions which are banned by a number of countries over the danger they pose to civilians. 

Earlier, we reported that Russian troops appear to be concentrating advances in the Chasiv Yar direction - which lies 80km north of Avdiivka.

If captured the city would give the Russians a better opportunity to target towns and cities further to the west.

The images below show the apocalyptic scenes in Chasiv Yar after bombardment by the Russians.

At least two people have been killed after Russian guided bombs struck the northeast Ukrainian region of Kharkiv. 

A man and a woman were killed in their car as they travelled in the village of Zolochiv, Oleh Syniehubov, the regional governor, said. 

A man, 77, and a woman, 74, were injured after three fires broke out after the strike.

Ten homes were also damaged. 

The region of Kharkiv has been under intense fire by Russian forces targetting energy infrastructure.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy said yesterday that his country needed a "significant acceleration" in the delivery of weapons to enable its troops to push back advancing Russian troops in several parts of the frontline.

The Ukrainian security service (SBU) is today conducting counterintelligence measures in a Kyiv district.

Officials will inspect some buildings and premises searching for unspecified prohibited items, the SBU said. 

The district of Shevchenkiv, including the Sofiyska and Mykhailivska squares in the old part of the city, is the main focus of the operation.

Checks will also be carried out on citizens, some of who may be asked to show identification documents and observe curfew.

The SBU said the national police force and the military law and order service will be involved.

An American man has admitted plotting to smuggle sensitive drone technology worth more than $250,000 (£200,000) into Russia.

Nikolay Grigorev, 36, pleaded guilty yesterday after more than 11,500 electronic components were stopped from going to Russia. 

He faces up to five years in prison.

Lisa Monaco, deputy attorney general in New York, said: "The justice department will continue to hold accountable those who defy our sanctions and export controls to support Russia's unprovoked and unjustified aggression in Ukraine - whether they're based in New York City or overseas."

The justice department said it is still searching for two other people connected to the case. 

These images show devastation in Kharkiv after Russian strikes yesterday. 

One person died in the attack, which appeared to target the northeastern region's railway infrastructure. 

Two districts of the city were hit and at least nine people were injured.

A short time ago, we brought you a report from Russia detailing that defence minister Sergei Shoigu had ordered new weapons for Moscow (see 6.56am post). 

But what about weapons for Kyiv? 

On the Ukrainian side, a massive US military assistance package will soon be felt on the battlefield. 

On Monday, the White House confirmed that security assistance deliveries were taking place. 

"The aid into Ukraine is ongoing. They have been receiving that security assistance," White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said. 

"I want to be very careful, because there is operational security," she noted, "but we hope that the aid will get to the frontlines soon so that Ukraine can continue to defend itself."

The bill, worth some $60bn in support for Ukraine, was finally signed into law on 24 April after months of debate in the Republican-controlled House of Representatives. 

Russia's focus on the battlefield may be shifting to areas other than around Avdiivka, according to a leading thinktank. 

Moscow's forces have seen their considerable progress slow to the west of the city, with troops now appearing to be concentrated in the Chasiv Yar direction, the US-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW) has said.

Chasiv Yar is some 80km north of Avdiivka. 

"The Ukrainian General Staff's morning and evening reports [yesterday] stated that Ukrainian forces repelled a total of 47 Russian attacks in the Avdiivka direction and 57 Russian attacks in the Bakhmut direction throughout the day, notably a much higher number of attacks in the Chasiv Yar direction than Ukrainian sources have recently reported out on," ISW said in a report. 

"One day's worth of reporting is not sufficient to establish a pattern," it said, "but it may suggest that Russian forces are somewhat slowing down the rate of attacks around Avdiivka while re-committing to offensive pushes around Chasiv Yar", it added. 

Reports have suggested Russia has set its sights on the strategic town of Chasiv Yar which, if captured, would make it easier for Moscow to advance further in the east. 

ISW also noted recent Russian successes near Avdiivka, notably at Ocheretyne (northwest of Avdiivka) and Novokalynove (north of Avdiivka), but said "the rate of confirmed advances appears to have slowed". 

Here's what the current battlefield situation looks like, according to ISW...

Russia's defence minister has ordered bigger and speedier weapon deliveries for its troops in Ukraine, the Russian defence ministry has said. 

In a statement, the Kremlin's defence minister Sergei Shoigu said: "To maintain the required pace of the offensive it is necessary to increase the volume and quality of weapons and military equipment supplied to the troops, primarily weapons."

The comments were made days after Ukraine's troops were compelled to make a tactical retreat from three villages in the eastern region, where the Kremlin's forces have been making incremental gains.

Ukraine and its Western partners are in a race against the clock to deploy critical new military aid that can help check the recent steady Russian advance across eastern areas, as well as thwart drone and missile attacks.

Ukraine launched drones on several Russian regions overnight, Russian officials are saying this morning, with Russian news outlets reporting a fire at the Ryazan oil refinery after the attack.

Pavel Malkov, governor of the Ryazan region in western Russia, said there were no injuries in the drone attacks there.

But Russian Telegram channel Baza , which is close to the security services, said the attack sparked a fire at the Ryazan refinery.

"Eyewitnesses reported that a rumble was heard, and then two explosions occurred," the channel reported.

"Operational services employees are currently working at the oil refinery. According to preliminary data, no victims."

The refinery, owned and run by Rosneft, refines about 5.8% of Russia's total refined crude. 

It has been a frequent target for Ukraine's air attacks.

The governors of the Kursk and Voronezh regions in southwest Russia that border Ukraine also reported drone attacks on their territories, saying there was no damage or injuries.

Russia rarely discloses information about the full impact of Ukraine's attacks on its territory and infrastructure.

Sky News cannot independently verify the reports.

Welcome back to our coverage of the Ukraine war.

Before we start live updates today, here are the main developments over the past 24 hours:

• The number killed in a Russian missile attack on a university building in a seafront park in the Black Sea city of Odesa rose to five.
• One woman was killed and three people were wounded after Ukrainian forces shelled the border village of Kozino, in Russia's Kursk region;
• Russian officials said Ukraine attacked Crimea with US-produced army tactical missile systems in an attempt to pierce Russian air defences of the annexed peninsula, but six were shot down;
• Russian guided bombs targeting a railway killed at least one person and damaged civilian infrastructure in the northeastern Ukrainian city of Kharkiv, officials said;
• Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine needed "a significant acceleration" in deliveries of weaponry from its partners.

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

Antony Blinken arrives in China with warning for Beijing over support of Russia

US secretary of state to hold talks with Chinese counterpart and most likely with President Xi Jinping

Antony Blinken has landed in China amid a worsening rift between the world’s two most powerful countries that threatens to overshadow otherwise improving relations.

The US secretary of state arrives with a warning that the US and its European allies are no longer prepared to tolerate China’s sale of weapon components and dual-use products to Russia, which are helping Vladimir Putin rebuild and modernise his arms factories, enabling him to intensify his onslaught on Ukraine.

Relations between China and the US had been warmer recently, with Beijing significantly less bellicose in its military posturing in the Taiwan strait since the meeting between Xi Jinping and Joe Biden in Woodside , California, in 2023. In the wake of that summit, progress was made on people-to-people ties, more than doubling the number of flights between the two countries, for example.

At Woodside, Xi also agreed to take action to curb the flow of precursors and equipment used in the making of fentanyl in Latin America, which is causing rising deaths among young Americans.

On his three-day visit, Blinken will first stop in Shanghai on his way to Beijing, to speak to students and attend a basketball game, the sort of popular diplomacy that would have been unthinkable a year ago, when bilateral relations were fraught, mostly over Taiwan .

However, when Blinken reaches Beijing for a meeting with his counterpart Wang Yi on Friday, expected to last six hours, and most likely with Xi too, the mood could cool, with discussions about China’s sale of dual-use products to Russia on the agenda.

US sanctions against the Chinese companies involved are also looming over this week’s visit.

“We’re committed to taking the steps necessary to defend our national interests,” a senior administration official said, adding that the planned measures would be aimed at “firms that are taking steps in contravention to our interests and in ways that severely undermine security in both Ukraine and Europe.”

“This will be a key issue of discussion while we’re in Beijing,” the official said. The Wall Street Journal reported that the Biden administration was also considering sanctions against Chinese banks, but US officials say that there are no imminent plans to take such measures.

The US believes its hand is strengthened on this issue having discussed a common position with European allies, who are alarmed by the prospect of a rebuilt, modernised and battle-hardened Russian military in the hands of an increasingly aggressive leader in the Kremlin. The G7 foreign ministers issued a strongly worded statement earlier this week, saying: “China should ensure that this support stops.”

“My expectation is that friends in Europe will have opportunities to express their concerns both in public and private to Chinese officials as well,” the senior administration official said. “So our objective will be to clearly make the case what the implications are of this support, and why that may not be in China’s interest going forward.”

US officials believe such joint pressure has helped convince Beijing to back down from their plans to supply arms directly to Russia earlier in the Ukraine war. However, they acknowledge that it will be hard to convince Xi to stop selling dual use industrial goods to China’s most important strategic partner.

Before Blinken’s arrival, China’s foreign ministry spokesperson, Wang Wenbin, restated China’s position.

“Let me stress again that China’s right to conduct normal trade and economic exchanges with Russia and other countries in the world on the basis of equality and mutual benefit should not be interfered with or disrupted,” Wang said, according to Beijing Youth Daily. “China’s legitimate and lawful rights and interests should not be infringed on.”

The Blinken team is aware that China’s response to pressure over Russia could be to slow down progress in other areas of the bilateral relationship.

Beijing has taken steps to curb the trade in fentanyl precursors and equipment in the wake of the Woodside summit, issuing a warning to pharmaceutical firms that it would enforce the law on those chemicals and taking police action against some suppliers. Blinken will be pressing for more, in the form of disruption of the financing networks around the trade, and more consistent law enforcement action.

It is unclear whether Beijing will limit cooperation on such a vital issue for Washington – fentanyl is the primary cause of death among Americans aged 18 to 49 – in response to threatened measures over Russia.

Beijing’s adamant support for Moscow is deepened by its belief that the US is seeking to encircle China by constructing an interlocking network of alliances around it.

Earlier this month, the US, Japan, and the Philippines, held a trilateral summit at the White House, reaffirming the security alliance between the three countries in the face of “dangerous and aggressive behavior in the South China Sea”, less than a year after a similar summit at Camp David with Japan and South Korea. In recent years, the US also formed the Aukus security pact with Australia and the UK.

On most such bilateral issues, US officials say, the Chinese are highly disciplined in discussions, to the point where officials turn the page on their notes at the same time as Wang. There is rarely any diplomatic give and take in the meeting, but rather a recital of positions. Explorations of mutual benefit are left to working groups. Wang is more likely to go off-script on multilateral issues such as the Middle East, where both countries share an interest in the free flow of shipping.

Blinken and Wang have spoken six times since the outbreak of the Gaza war on 7 October about the situation in the region, where both US and China urged restraint on their respective partners, Israel and Iran, when an all-out war threatened to ignite this month .

Washington would like Beijing to do the same with North Korea. In US eyes, China has walked away from efforts to try to influence Pyongyang, at a time when the regime there has ramped up its threatening rhetoric against South Korea and other neighbours and warned of accelerated missile launches since it began deepening its relationship with Russia.

While US officials expect that some of Blinken’s sessions with Chinese counterparts may be “scratchy” because of the multiple irritations in the relationship, they also believe that China is committed to maintaining stability in the coming years while the leadership addresses economic challenges.

• Antony Blinken
• US foreign policy
• Asia Pacific

Most viewed