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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.

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The dos and don'ts of visiting Russia for the first time

Sep 24, 2021 • 6 min read

These top tips can help you make the most of your visit to Russia © MarinaDa / Shutterstock

The world’s largest country beguiles and fascinates with its world-class art, epic landscapes and multifaceted society. You may also find that perseverance  and a sense of humour will go a long way in enriching your first-time Russian travel experience. From the things you absolutely must do before you travel to the things we recommend that you steer clear of once you're there, here are some top tips for avoiding common pitfalls when visiting  Russia .

DO apply for a visa early and register on arrival

Visas must be applied for in advance by all visitors. How you do that varies depending on your nationality and where in Russia you are traveling to. Travelers from many countries, including the UK and US, need to apply in-person at an embassy or consulate and provide biometric data. An e-visa may be an option for passport-holders from 52 countries, which include many EU travelers, as well as those from China, India, Japan, Singapore, and some Middle Eastern countries. However these are temporarily suspended due to COVID-19.  Check with your local Russian embassy or consulate for confirmation, or get up-to-date information here . 

You can apply at the last moment, but it may cost you a fortune. Start the application process at least a month before your trip and consider using a specialist travel agency to arrange visas and make key transport bookings. Every visitor to Russia should have their visa registered within seven days of arrival, excluding weekends and public holidays. The obligation to register is with your hotel or hostel, or landlord, friend or family if you’re staying in a private residence. Also keep in mind that your visa entry and exit dates will be written according to European calendar convention (day/month/year) as opposed to the American style, so don't get mixed up or over-stay your visa. 

DO check the events calendar

During major holidays – the first week in January (between New Year’s Day and Orthodox Christmas) and the first week or two of May (around Labour Day, or May Day, and Victory Day) – Moscow and St Petersburg empty out. Despite this, both cities are festive during these times, with parades, concerts and other events, but museums and other institutions may have shortened hours or be shut altogether. May to September is the best time to visit St Petersburg but mid-June is when the city is irresistible, with the White Nights revelry at its peak.

DO dress up for a night out

We can’t guarantee you’ll make it past Moscow’s "face control" (the term comes from clubs trying to "save face" by only letting in patrons who meet their image standards) but you can better your chances of getting in to the top clubs by making a sartorial effort – high heels and skirts for women, all black for men. Russians also make an effort when they go to the theater or a posh restaurant – you should do likewise to fit in.

DO learn the Cyrillic alphabet

Making an effort to familiarize yourself with the Cyrillic alphabet repays tenfold. It will help you decode street and metro signs, maps, timetables and menus, even if you don't know many Russian phrases. While digital tools like the Russian Metro app  and Google Translate make it easier than ever to visit countries where you don't speak or read the language, brushing up beforehand can reduce frustration and endear you to the locals.

Rideshare options such as Taxovichkoff and Yandex Taxi upended the taxi industry in Russia as much as anywhere else. That means less pressure to know the Russian phrases you'd need to hails cabs in the streets, but it still is wise to learn key phrases in case there's a navigation mixup, like the address of your hotel or intersection of your short-term apartment rental. 

DO expect to spend your money

Moscow is one of the most expensive cities in the world and St Petersburg is not a cheap destination either; wallet-thinning shock is common at many restaurants and hotels. As a foreigner you’ll also find yourself paying more than a Russian for some museums – often as much as 10 times the price Russians pay. If you’re a student, flashing your ID can save you money at museums and other institutions.

You can save on dining out a few different ways. Many restaurants offer "business lunches" that are great value and very filling. Several years ago the trend for " anti-cafes " cropped up in larger Russian cities, and there are still a few where you pay by the minute for coffee, biscuits, and a little wi-fi time. 

Food markets  that blend farmers markets and food halls are popular, and are often found in architecturally significant vintage buildings. You can shop for ingredients to cook yourself or sample cuisines from around the world from dozens of  vendor stalls. Many food markets are less expensive than sit-down restaurants and let you try a wider variety of local and international dishes. 

DON’T ask for a mixer with your vodka

Few traditions in Russia are as sacrosanct as the drinking of vodka , and any foreign notions of drinking it with orange juice or tonic are anathema to your average Russian. If you need something to wash it down, you can chase it with a lemon, a pickle or, perhaps, a separate glass of water. Vodka is drunk in swift shots, not sipped. It’s traditional (and good sense) to eat a little something after each shot, so order some vodka snacks too.

DON’T be disrespectful in a church

Working churches are open to everyone, but as a visitor you should take care not to disturb any devotions or offend sensibilities. There's no face control, but women should cover their heads and bare shoulders when entering a church. In some monasteries and churches it’s also required for a woman to wear a skirt – wraps are usually available at the door. Men should remove their hats in church and not wear shorts.

DON’T take photos of government buildings

Be very careful about photographing stations, official-looking buildings and any type of military-security structure – if in doubt, don’t snap! Travelers have been arrested and fined for such innocent behaviour.

DON’T be surprised if you’re stopped by the police

Although new laws were passed in 2011 that ostensibly reconfigured Russia's police and their interactions with the public, it's still wise to carry a photocopy of your passport, visa and registration – not to mention travel documents that indicate how and when you'll return home – and present them when an officer demands to see your documents. You may also see special tourist police near major attractions like the Red Square , who have special training and language skills to assist travelers.

If you're issued a fine, Russian authorities might expect an "unofficial payment" to expedite their service on the spot, as opposed to handling the matter later at the station. Either way, always ask for an official receipt, and consider carrying the phone number for your country's embassy in case matters get more complicated. 

You might also like: How to spend a perfect weekend in Moscow    How to plan and pack for the Trans-Siberian Railway    Beyond the Trans-Siberian: travelling Russia's unexplored northwest by train   

This article was originally published in August 2009.

This article was first published October 2019 and updated September 2021

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Russia Travel Guide

Your ultimate russia travel guide, with tips, and things to see and things to do in russia. great for first-time and returning travelers..

Russia, the world’s largest country. From off-the-beaten-path destinations, like Irkutsk, to the idyllic countryside to glittering palaces and ancient fortresses to vodka induced parties that last until the wee hours of the morning, Russia definitely has it all. 

This Russia travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.

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Table of contents

Table of Contents

Fast Facts about Russia

• Russian power voltage is 220V 50Hz;  Plug C
• The Russian currency is the Russian ruble and is around 69 RUB to 1 USD
• Get your visa well in advance . North Americans and most Europeans will need visas to enter Russia. The official invitation option has been dropped, however people still need to show certain documents, such as hotel confirmation letters, bank/income statements or a travel insurance policy.
• Upon arrival you will be handed a  migration card  that is either filled out or blank (which you will need to fill out yourself!) You will need this card to register at hotels and to leave the country so make sure you don’t lose it!
• Be extremely careful at zebra crossing / crosswalks.  There are times when cars will not slow down and will fail to give way.  Never assume that a driver will stop for you when you cross the street. 
• When buying art you need the piece certified as being  culturally insignificant  to have it pass through customs. It can take time to get the proper documents, so it is advisable to avoid buying art if you are visiting Russia for a short time.
• Women should cover their heads with a scarf in Orthodox churches, if it is an active church.
• Travelers are advised against all travel to Chechnya, Ingushetia and Dagestan, as well as all but essential travel to North Ossetia, Karachai-Cherkessia and Kabardino-Balkaria.
• Avoid drinking water from the faucet, especially in St. Petersburg. The water leaving the purification plant is fine but the water pipe system is woefully outdated and the purified water is often contaminated with city ground water.

Things to See and Do in Russia

• Climbing Mt Elbrus  – You don’t have to pay a fee to conquer the 5640m European peak.
• Hiking in the Altai Region  –The region has incredible spots for hiking and beautiful scenery.
• Moscow Kremlin  – Features cathedrals built in the 15th and 16th centuries.
• Hermitage Museum  – Features over 3 million art and culture exhibitions.
• Attend a concert  – You’ll enjoy a stunning performance at the Moscow International Performing Arts Center.
• The Magnificent Moscow Metro  – the metro system is more of an art deco design project than a transport hub.
• The Astrakhan Kremlin  – Located on the banks of the Volga River ever so close to the Caspian Sea, this pleasant waterfront city boasts a bustling boardwalk complete with jugglers, rollerbladers, performers and vendors.

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Accommodation

Budget  – Some budget hotels can be found in Russia starting at $15 US per night. They may include free Wi-Fi and a private room.

Mid Range  – Mid-range hotels start around $85 per night. They may include a restaurant, family rooms, and a lounge.

High End  – Luxury hotels are priced at $200 – $300 per night. These hotels offer high-end amenities such as indoor pools, fitness centers, and spas.

Check out our favorite booking platforms  Booking.com ,  Tripadvisor  and  Air B&B  for the best deals on accommodation in Russia.

• Pelmeni  – Pastry dumpling filled with meat.
• Borscht  –Soup made with beetroot. 
• Blini  – Thin pancakes that resemble crepes.
• Solyanka  – Stew made with meat, pickles, onions, herbs, and spices. 
• Kvass  –A beverage made from rye bread. 
• Plov  – Seasoned rice with meat.
• Okroshka soup  – Made with yogurt, mayonnaise, or kvass. 

The Best Ways to Get Around Russia

Getting to russia:.

Flights:  The main airports in Russia that have international flights include Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo, and Vnukovo. These airports receive flights from many countries, including Britain, Turkey, Egypt, Spin, France, and many more.

You can check for the best flights to Russia on  Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Buses : In Russia, you can get around by bus at affordable prices. The general cost of bus fare in Russia is as low as $1.

Taxis / Uber : Taxis are available in almost every part of Russia. Some of the popular taxi services are Yandex Taxi, Taxi Moscow International, and Lingo Taxi. Taxi prices in Russia start from $13 for a distance of 1.5 KM.

Car Rental:  In Russia, there are both local and international car rental services such as Avis, Europcar, Hertz, Sixt, Prokat Auto, and Arenda Car. On average, a rental car in Russia costs $45 a day. You can also compare  prices here .

When to go To Russia

Russia  has a largely continental  climate  because of its sheer size with warm to hot dry summers and cold winters with temperatures of -30°C and lower and sometimes heavy snowfall. 

In Moscow and St. Petersburg the first snow usually falls in late November and stays till early April. The average winter temperature is about -10°C. Much of the country experiences only two main seasons: summer and winter.

• Russia has four seasons and there is no bad time to visit Russia if you are prepared for the weather.
• It has a very similar climate to Canada.
• Summer (June to August) is a good time for road trips , hiking, and exploring cities.
• Winter (November to February) is great for skiing, ice skating, and winter carnivals.
• Spring (late March to May) can be unpredictable with a mix of snow, rain and warm sunshine and the same can be said for Autumn (September/October) although Autumn is usually dry.

Where to Stay in Russia

• Four Seasons Hotel Moscow  – Located just steps from Red Square, this hotel offers luxury accommodation and many incredible amenities for travelers.
• Kempinski Hotel Moika  – This is a great place to stay in Zenit St Petersburg. The hotel offers warmly decorated rooms, entertainment facilities, among many other amenities.
• Vysotskiy   – This is one of the best hotels for tourists in Yekaterinburg. It offers genteel rooms, suites, city views and spa.

What to Pack for Russia

• Layers –  You could possibly be sweating all afternoon and then be freezing by nightfall! Make sure to stock up on the layers. If you plan on heading to Russia during the winter make sure to pack the  winter essentials:  Warm, waterproof, fleece-lined boots big enough to wear with heavy wool socks, hat, waterproof gloves and thermal long underwear!
• Classic Basic items  – You do not need to be a fashionista to blend in. The key is in embracing neutral toned items that can be mixed and matched easily. Avoid logos, baseball caps, shorts, hoodies, flip-flops and running shoes as these items scream  tourist!
• Rain Essentials –  the weather can be a little unpredictable so make sure to pack a lightweight easily compacted waterproof/windproof jacket and a pair of waterproof boots.
• Personal Safety products  – Certain areas in Moscow and St. Petersburg are known as pickpocket hotspots. Before leaving for your trip, make sure to pack some  personal safety products , like money belts and locks, so that you can keep your valuables safe on your trip.

See our packing tips:  packing tips

Russia Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

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the ultimate travel guide to Russia

Awe-inspiriting architecture, free-flowing vodka, hearty cuisine and fairy-tale castles. Sprawling expanses of forest and icy planes. Hip bars, opulent cathedrals and high-end shopping precincts. There’s a reason travellers are becoming increasingly intrigued by a trip to Russia. Welcome to our Russia travel guide.

One of the world’s most mysterious destinations (thanks to that impenetrable Iron Curtain), Russia is starting to pop up on many a travel hot list.

The nation’s capital, Moscow is one of Europe’s great cultural destinations. Among the many drawcards are the magnificent historical and contemporary art galleries, the picturesque Red Square, The Kremlin and the Bolshoi Theatre. On top of that are the incredible parks and churches.

The variety of food on offer in Moscow is also worthy of note. Feast on traditional Russian soups, stews, pelmeni (dumplings), filled pancakes and caviar.

For more than 100 years Hotel National Moscow has witnessed the country’s political transformation, from imperial reign through to communist rule and the fall of the Soviet Union.

It’s a hotel that perfectly matches the city’s fascinating history.

St Petersburg is a culture capital as riddled with tales of Russia’s turbulent history as it is with artworks and canals.

Thanks to its extreme northerly position, from 11 June to 2 July St Petersburg becomes an insomniac’s dream as the sun never sets. Known as the season of the midnight sun, it’s celebrated with the White Nights Festival. This showcases classical ballet and opera and culminates in the traditional Scarlet Sails celebration.

St Petersburg’s legendary State Hermitage Museum or the Winter Palace, was historically the main residence of the Russian Tsars. Today it presents something of a quandary – do you view the three million (no, that’s not a typo) artworks spanning the Paleolithic to the present day, or the grand architecture housing the art – the splendid confection of the Winter Palace with swathes of gold on walls, columns and ceilings?

According to those in the know, if you spent a minute looking at each exhibit, you would need 11 years to see them all.

Part of the Golden Ring of quaint towns some 200km north-east of Moscow, Suzdal was the capital of the Rostov-Suzdal principality in the 12th century. It’s a quaint little town with a very rich history. Having avoided the industrialisation that blighted much of Russia during the Soviet era (it was bypassed by the Trans-Siberian railways in the 19th century despite lobbying by locals), the town is dotted with stunning historic Russian architecture, including blue-domed churches (the Nativity of the Virgin Cathedral), monasteries, and its very own 10th-century Kremlin.

You may like to venture further afield and explore the icy beauty and rambling forests of Siberia .

Perhaps a trip on the iconic Trans-Siberian railway appeals. It’s the longest railway line in the world (9289 kilometres of track) travelling through the wilds of Siberia taking six nights to travel from Moscow to Vladivostok, and also branching off along the way into the Trans-Mongolian and Trans-Manchurian railways from where you can travel to Beijing, China, and then by connecting train to Vietnam and even Singapore if you are patient.

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Russia Travel Destination Guide - Best Places to visit in Russia

Home / Russia Travel Experiences / Russia Travel Destination Guide – Best Places to visit in Russia

Thinking of travelling to or within Russia but undecided on which destination to go? This Russia Travel Destination guide shares tips and highlights of the best locations to vacation in Russia.

The world’s largest nation has it all – fast-paced, cosmopolitan cities with eye-popping architecture, quaint historic rural villages, mountain ranges, ancient volcanic landscapes, lakes, rivers and forests. From magnificent stretches of coastline to snow-swept tundra to semi-arid desert, no other country can challenge, surprise, inspire and delight visitors with incredible diversity quite like Russia. If you’re planning for the perfect holiday get-a-way to Russia whether it be independent, a guided trip, as part of a group tour or a Russia travel package , this Russia Destination Guide is for you.

Best way to use this Russia Travel Destination Guide: use the Table of Contents below to click on a topic most relevant to you.

Table of Contents

The Russia travel destination guide is your travel companion

1. Top 9 must-visit Russia travel destinations: This Guide will arm you with invaluable traveller’s insights into the most amazing  regions of Russia and what each of them has to offer every traveller.

2. Practical tips for each region: This guide summarises everything from practical travel advice on sightseeing highlights, what to see and experience, to practical information for your ideal trip like the best time to go and how to go, whether you’re coming from overseas by air or travelling overland within Russia.

3. Personalised travel destinations for all: Whether you’re a hardcore historian, architecture admirer, nature and wildlife lover, off-the-beaten-track adventurer or a traveller seeking authentic connections with local people, this is your go-to Russia Destination Guide to a one-of-a-kind experience.

Wherever your interests lie, the Russia travel advice and tips within this guide will reveal in vivid detail which regions in Russia will best fulfil your travel aspirations. Read on and start planning the Russian vacation of your dreams!

Destination #1: Moscow

A modern mega-city of some 13 million souls and bursting at the seams with possibilities, Moscow is a city like no other. It’s exciting, chaotic and constantly on the move. Ugly, beautiful, glamorous, cool and confident, with surprising warmth and hospitality beneath a stern, business-like façade.

A visit to Moscow is an endlessly surprising journey to sights unseen and tastes unsampled. Whims and indulgences are catered to wholeheartedly, whether your desires lie in the steamy pleasures of a traditional Russian sauna, evenings sipping vodka and champagne in an exclusive nightclub, gourmet feasting in a high-class restaurant or simply taking in the atmosphere of the city’s famous public parks and squares and watching the world go by. Moscow’s architectural splendour is legendary but seeing it for yourself will fill you with a sense of awe and wonder that no picture can recreate.

Born from an imperial past, yet an enduring symbol of Soviet Russia, Moscow is a city between two worlds. Unique to any other city you’d find in this Russia Destination Guide, Moscow’s art and architecture reflect a crossroad position astride the Eastern and Western worlds and revels in the centuries of comings and goings of great minds that have called this captivating and engrossing metropolis home.

Moscow is full of history and intrigue – a spiritual and political hub and billionaire playground with a youthful, cosmopolitan culture stirring just beneath the surface. Visit Moscow and decide for yourself what this dynamic city means to you.

Why visit Moscow?

To understand Russia, first, you need to visit Moscow. The city dates back at least 900 years, and there’s a real sense of being transported through time as you stroll the ever-changing streets and districts, showcasing mind-bogglingly intricate 18th-century neo-classicalism and Soviet-era concrete monoliths, through to constructivism’s quirky Russian avant-garde and gleaming contemporary glass skyscrapers. Moscow is all about culture – architecture, history, food , arts, music and nightlife. In a city this size, there’s something to cater to every taste, no matter how eclectic. Dive into the rabbit hole of Moscow’s endlessly engrossing history with visits to the Imperial palaces where mighty rulers rose and fell from power and revolutions were born. Visit magnificent cathedrals, state-of-the-art museums and world-class art galleries.

Moscow shines in the evening, with nightly music, ballet and opera performances in its majestic theatres and concert halls. In recent years, Moscow has become a hub of gastronomy thanks to a new breed of local and international chefs. Yes, Moscow has its fair share of fancy fine dining restaurants and hipster cafes, but you’ll still find street snacks in abundance and homely, traditional Russian fare served in well-loved, hole-in-the-wall eateries.

If you’ve come to Moscow keen to party, you’re in luck. Moscow’s nightlife scene rivals almost any major international city. The label “city that never sleeps” isn’t always warranted, but in Moscow, it’s the truth. There’s after-dark fun to be had every day of the week, with various nightlife districts home to mega dance warehouses, atmospheric underground clubs, friendly local pubs, jazz lounges, rock venues, performance art spaces and the best bar-crawling action this side of London.

Weather in Moscow and when to go

The peak season to travel to Moscow is in Summer between June and August, where temperatures usually hover around a pleasant 20 degrees Celsius. While summers are slightly rainier than other seasons in Moscow, downfalls tend to be fairly heavy but short-lived.

However, for Russia Destination Guide readers keen to avoid higher prices that come with booking accommodation in the summer, you might try the shoulder seasons of spring and early autumn. Late spring (April and May) provide more sunshine and less rainfall, while in autumn, the city’s parks are filled with flowering trees and colourful leaves.

The depths of mid-winter are undoubtedly cold, but a winter visit is an adventure that will give you a true insight into Moscow life – both its hardships and its great beauty. Furs and vodka keep the locals warm and the snow-filled streets are postcard picturesque. With layers of shimmering show blanketing the roofs of Moscow’s grand palaces, parts of the city are transformed into a fairy-tale wonderland. The Christmas lights, traditional winter markets and News Years celebrations offer sights and sounds and an atmosphere to be savoured.

Highlights of Moscow

The Kremlin

No place better represents the triumphs and turmoil of Russia’s past than the Kremlin . Built between the 14 th and 17 th centuries, it served first as the Imperial Residence of the Tsars and later as the headquarters of the Russian presidents. Within the imposing walls of the Kremlin are a plethora of classic buildings, each as stunning as the next. Wander past the Kremlin Palace, the neoclassical Senate Building, the 40-tonne Tsar Cannon and the 200-tonne Tsar Bell, the Armoury Museum, Cathedral Square and others.

The Red Square

Along the eastern side of the Kremlin Wall is the vast cobblestoned expanse of the Red Square . Although it’s been the scene of countless displays of military might, parades and protests since the 15 th century, it’s traditionally been a place of trade and social gatherings/ Today thousands flock to the square to celebrate official state events, be photographed in front of famous monuments or simply soak up its historic splendour.

St Basil’s Cathedral

Located in Red Square is one of Russia’s most iconic buildings, with its vibrant rainbow-painted, onion-shaped domes. The cathedral was commissioned by Ivan the Terrible in 1552 to mark the capture of Kazan from the Mongol forces. According to legend, Ivan was so enamoured by architect Postnik Yakovlev’s design that he had him blinded so that he would never be able to design anything as fantastical again! If the cathedral is open, it’s possible to visit the interior, richly decorated and well worth an explore.

Arbat Street

In the heart of downtown Moscow, Arbat is Moscow’s oldest pedestrian street. The cobblestone roads and classical statues are reminders of its elegant past, but today the area caters mostly for the tourist crowd, with rows of souvenir shops and restaurants and cafes of varying quality. Still, it’s a must-visit attraction with a lively atmosphere. Street performers and musicians ply the street day and night, and you can often watch traditional Russian craft-makers at work.

The Moscow Metro

Apart from being one of the largest and oldest underground railway systems in the world, and a fantastic, cheap way to get around Moscow, the metro is a tourist attraction in its own right, thanks to its spectacularly decorated underground stations. The stations have been described as underground art museums, home to fantastic sculptures, murals and striking architectural elements from stained glass panels to mosaic marble floors.

Bolshoi Theatre

A historic theatre in the centre of Moscow, renowned for its world-class ballet and opera performances. An evening at the Bolshoi Theatre is one of Moscow’s most romantic after-hours options and the theatre offers a range of Russian and foreign works throughout the week. Equally as spectacular as the theatre’s performances is the rich, lavish interior of the six-level auditorium. No matter what performance you take in on this historic stage, the experience is sure to make you feel like royalty, at least for a couple of hours.

How to Get to Moscow

Travel by plane:.

The are four major airports in Moscow – Domodedovo , Sheremetyevo , Vnukovo and Zhukovsky. The majority of international flights go in and out of Sheremetyevo (most of the major international airlines and Russian airline Aeroflot ). Domodedovo Airport is the main hub for Swiss Airlines, Air Malta, British Airways, Emirates, China Eastern, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways and most of the Central Asian airlines. Most domestic flights also operate out of Domodedovo and Sheremetyevo, with a few departing from Vnukovo (UtAir, Vladivostok Avia, flights to North Caucasus), as well as German Wings flights to and from Germany.

To get to the centre of Moscow from the airports, the Aeroexpress train is the fast and easy way, especially during Moscow’s notorious morning and afternoon rush hours. The trip to the city clocks in at around 35 to 40 minutes. Outside of peak times, taxis take an average of 1 hour to reach the city centre, while a private transfer or shuttle is the most comfortable option to arrive directly to your hotel.

Travel by train:

Russia overland travellers from Europe can also reach Moscow by train. Train travel is often less cost-effective compared with flying (at least within Europe) and provides a totally unique experience with the ability to stopover in various European cities along the way.

Direct trains to Moscow depart from Paris, Berlin, Warsaw, Amsterdam and Kiev. The Paris-Moscow Express runs once a week all year and is the most glamorous and comfortable option. The train traverses through four countries (France, Germany, Poland and Belarus) before pulling in at Moscow’s long-distance Belrussky train station after a journey of just under 40 hours. Another classy option popular among tourists is the Berlin-Moscow Swift train. Departing twice a week (Sundays and Mondays) from East Berlin station, it takes a little over 20 hours to cover the 1,896km between the German capital and Moscow.

Destination #2: Saint Petersburg

The former capital of the Russian Empire, the city that Peter the Great founded in 1703 is today a decidedly more laidback city compared with the frenetic pace of Moscow. Explore the highlights of this living museum, where the city centre of Saint Petersburg (also known simply as ‘Peter’) consists of one colossal architectural masterpiece after another.

Peter the Great transformed a tract of swampland on the Neva River delta into what would be regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful cities, reflecting the cultural and artistic prowess of Imperial Russia and a sophisticated European influence inspired by the likes of London, Paris and Vienna.

At the same time, St Petersburg is a thriving, modern metropolis with a population of over five million. Just as it originally attracted architects, poets, painters, composers and revolutionaries, today young creatives flock to St Petersburg’s lively streets, artistic hubs, galleries and performance venues, many of them housed in the shells of crumbling old-world mansions and derelict palaces, providing a youthful, edgy and energetic counterpoint to the city’s stately ornamental façade.

Why visit St Petersburg?

Moscow may be the seat of Russia’s political power, but St Petersburg is the country’s cultural capital. There are many reasons the Russia Destination Guide has to make visiting St. Petersburg a must. Not just for its numerous palaces, churches and museums , but also its theatres and concert halls, its contemporary art hubs and its flourishing live music and bar scene.

St Petersburg is renowned for its illustrious architecture, home to the magnificent Palace Square and Peterhof Palace, the Russian equivalent of Versailles. It also boasts one of the world’s greatest museums in the imposing State Hermitage complex. The entire historic city centre is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site.

Known as the “Venice of the North” for its numerous rivers and canals, Russia’s most romantic city is famous for its beautiful drawbridges. The Palace Bridge is drawn every night in front of crowds of tourists and has become one of the most recognisable symbols of the city. History fans will be enraptured by St Petersburg’s perfectly preserved monuments to Tsarist extravagance, and the many sites and landmarks which played an integral role in the Russian Revolutions and both World Wars.

The city’s epic White Nights are the intoxicating summer weeks between late May and early June when night never falls and the streets and parks are alive with all-night revellers, open-air concerts and dusky evenings that transform almost unnoticeably into the morning.

Weather in St Petersburg and when to go

Despite being the northernmost metropolis in the world, St Petersburg’s proximity to the Gulf of Finland blesses the city with a maritime climate, making it far less chilly than much of Russia over winter, with temperatures rarely dipping below -7°C even in the coldest month of January.

Summers are usually pleasantly warm, with the occasional spell of hot, humid weather. Mid-summer (between late May and mid-June) is also the time of the legendary St Petersburg White Nights when the sun never completely sets and the evenings are alive with a festive atmosphere and concerts and performances take place nightly around the city.

A good amount of snow over winter in St Petersburg is always a given. During winter, the city is arguably at its most beautiful. The streets are relaxed and uncrowded, the Neva River becomes a wilderness of ice and shiny white snowflakes cover buildings and monuments set against a backdrop of bare trees covered in crystalline frost. In winter many parks are converted into ice skating rinks and skiing is possible outside of the city. Theatre life is very much alive over the winter months, with performances of the Nutcracker being a special Christmas favourite.

Here’s a Russia Destination Guide tip: If you find yourself in St Petersburg over New Years, the best way to celebrate in this destination with the locals is to head down to Palace Square. You can join in the countdown for the fireworks display before warming up at one of the many bars, clubs and hotels holding parties.

Highlights of St Petersburg

The State Hermitage Museum

The Hermitage is undoubtedly the jewel in St Petersburg’s cultural crown. One of the world’s greatest collections of ancient and modern art, only the Louvre in Paris and Prado in Madrid rival the Hermitage in terms of worldwide cultural importance. The museum houses some three million individual artworks and artefacts, from Egyptian antiquities to 19 th and 20th-century modern art. The Hermitage comprises six individual buildings including Winter Palace, with its stunning white-columned facade and gallery rooms.

Church of the Saviour on Spilled Blood

One of St Petersburg’s most iconic sights is this extraordinarily decorated church marking the site where Tsar Alexander met his untimely death at the hands of bomb-wielding revolutionaries. Although it bears a resemblance to Moscow’s 16 th St Basil’s Cathedral, with its intricate mosaics and multi-coloured onion domes, the church is just over a hundred years old.

St Issacs Cathedral

St Petersburg is home to countless cathedrals, most conceived in the baroque and neoclassical styles. St Issacs Cathedral is the largest cathedral in St Petersburg, identifiable by its gold-illuminated dome and twelve statues of angels. The cathedral’s history tells an intriguing story of conflict and dissent. The anti-religious Soviet government denounced the Cathedral and converted it into a museum of atheism. In 1937 it was converted into a museum of art, and religious activities resumed in 1990.

Tsarkoye Selo

This grand Imperial estate is located in the handsome town of Pushkin, 25km south of St Petersburg. Amid exquisite parks and gardens, you’ll find the baroque Catherine Palace, a luxurious summer sanctuary surrounded by acres of gardens where remarkable structures like the Marble Bridge, the Dutch Admiralty and the Creaking Pagoda were constructed for her amusement. The estate is also home to Alexander Palace. A fine example of neoclassic architecture, its tumultuous history paints a fascinating portrait of the Romanov family.

Peterhof Palace

With its exquisitely manicured gardens, magnificent fountains and gold sculptures, Peter the Great modelled his sumptuous summer palace on the Baltic Sea on Versailles. It’s living rooms, bedrooms, ballrooms and ceremonial rooms are all extraordinarily beautiful. Peter’s daughter, Empress Elizabeth later extended the park and ordered the construction of the 22km Grand Cascade, featuring a total of three waterfalls, 64 fountains and 37 gilt statues.

Nevsky Prospect

St Petersburg’s high street is a 4.5km long royal avenue lined with stately mansions and palaces as well as countless shops, luxury hotels and Gostiny Dyor , the city’s largest department store. Walking the length of the avenue during the day and again at night is highly recommended by the Russia destination guide to take in the atmosphere of this living piece of history and its captivating mixture of old and new.

Bridges and canals of St Petersburg

A relaxing canal tour is a must-do activity, allowing you to see the sites of St Petersburg and its surrounding suburbs from an entirely different perceptive. A city made up of 42 islands across the Lena River delta, St Petersburg is crisscrossed by 300km of artificial canals, flowing beneath a network of over 800 bridges.

How to get to St Petersburg

The distance between Moscow and St Petersburg is approximately 700km, making either flying or train travel excellent for travelling between the cities. There are numerous flights per day and the flight time is around 1.5 hours. However, you’ll have to factor in the time need to get to and from the airports, which are located on the city outskirts.

Most overseas visitors first touchdown in Moscow and then connect to St Petersburg. There are also direct flights to St Petersburg’s Pulvoko Airport from many international destinations, mostly in Europe, including Paris, London, Brussels, Amsterdam, Zurich, Frankfurt, Prague, Helsinki and Stockholm. Direct flights also operate from Shanghai, Beijing, Doha, Dubai and Istanbul and many other international hubs.

From Moscow, overland options include daytime high-speed trains such as the Sapsan , which whisks you from Moscow to St Petersburg in about four hours. Ticket prices vary but at the time of writing this Russia destination guide, expect to pay around US $70 for an economy seat. Business-class costs around twice as much and first-class around twice again.

There are also several overnight train services travelling between the two cities. The journey takes around 8 to 9 hours and offers the benefit of saving you a night’s accommodation. A bunk in a third-class sleeper carriage is around 2,000 rubles (US $30), while a first-class cabin on the luxury Red Arrow train will set you back around 8,800 rubles (US $134)

Train tickets can be purchased at the station, but to be safe, you can purchase them online up to 90 days in advance from RZD , the official website of Russian Railways.

Destination #3: The Golden Ring

The Golden Ring is renowned as the most popular overland tourist trail through the charming provincial cities of central Russia, and thus certainly deserves a spot in the Russia destination guide’s list. The 740km circular route passes through a collection of small cities northeast of Moscow that counts among Russia’s oldest medieval townships. Despite their modest size, many of the Golden Ring’s cities played a vital role in shaping the country’s history. Its oldest settlements can be traced back to at least the 10 th century.

Scattered across a postcard-perfect landscape of rolling hills, flower blanketed meadows, rivers and streams, the cities of the Golden Ring were considered political backwaters by the time Soviet industrialisation took hold, escaping much of the urban progress that rapidly engulfed Moscow and its surroundings. Consequently, many locals still lead a largely traditional existence, living in tight-knit communities where the ancestral izba (wooden farmhouse) is the centre of daily life.

Today, the region remains remarkably untouched by urbanisation. Surrounded by rolling hills and verdant meadows, these lands are a throwback a rural Russia that has changed little for generations. Many of the towns were instrumental in the rise of the Orthodox church, as evidenced by the abundance of magnificent cathedral spires and domes. Apart from their religious significance, these proud towns have staunchly preserved their time-honoured traditions, folk art and cuisine.

Why visit the Golden Ring of Russia?

Wandering the tranquil, cobblestone streets of the ancient Golden Ring towns feels like genuinely stepping back in time. Virtually every city on the circuit is a living museum, made up of ancient forts, towering monasteries, imposing palaces and magnificent cathedrals. Several of the Golden Ring towns are home to UNESCO World Heritage-listed treasures, including the medieval White Monuments of Suzdal and Vladimir and the historic centre of Yaroslavl.

Readers of the Russia Destination Guide who are admirers of classic architecture  or perhaps history buffs will adore these destinations. Those hoping for an intimate insight into the places, people and events that shaped the complex, deep-rooted history that shaped Imperial and Soviet Russia will find the sights and stories of the Golden Ring region a fascinating and enthralling experience. You can feel the history in the air, among the perfectly preserved medieval wooden houses and the grand fortress and kremlins built in times where these cities wielded substantial political and religious power. Instrumental in the rise of the Russian Orthodox Church, across the centuries, many of these strategic settlements found themselves battling ruthless Mongol invasions, rebellious Tatar sieges and a string of Tsarist scandals.

Due to its proximity to Moscow, the Golden Ring is a popular side-trip for visitors to the Russian capital. The gorgeous countryside and laidback pace of the towns provide a welcome respite from the frenetic atmosphere of Moscow, well worth a diversion of at least a couple of days (hardcore history fans will ideally need a week or more to see most of the region’s highlights).

Weather in the Golden Ring and when to go

With this Russia Destination Guide, you can plan the perfect date of arrival with these tips. The Golden Ring is truly a year-round destination, with each season bringing a new and beautiful palette of colour to the rural countryside. Visitor numbers peak with the warm summer months (June to August) when the skies are a vivid blue, making for a particularly great backdrop against the domes and cupolas of the region’s many churches and cathedrals. In spring (April through to May) the meadows come alive with flowers while in the short autumn months (September to October) the scenery takes on the rich hues of red, orange and yellow. The freezing temperatures of the winter months (November to March) often bring a thick blanket of snow that creates a dreamy wonderland with lakes and rivers frozen over, perfect for ice skating.

Highlights of the Golden Ring of Russia

The most picturesque stop on the Golden Ring circuit, 1,000-year-old Suzdal appears like a scene from a Russian storybook. It’s quiet laneways, cobblestone plazas and medieval churches have inspired artists and poets for centuries. With many of residents living in colourful wooden houses, and classic horse-drawn buggies still a fixture of its quiet streets, Suzdal has managed to retain a tranquil, rural atmosphere, giving you an impression of how much of Russia might have looked centuries ago.

Explore  Yaroslavl,  the first Christian city on the Volga River and the subject of epic poems and heroic prose for centuries. Many of Russia’s greatest craftsmen, stonemasons, painters and sculptors came together to create this city of magnificent churches and monuments, dating back to the 1100s. The Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Saviour is one of the richest and most fortified monasteries. Here’s a Russa destination guide tip for you: A bird’s-eye view of Yaroslavl and its rivers can be had by climbing up to the top of the cathedral’s bell town.

The oldest town in the Golden Ring and is also one of its most architecturally impressive, rich in elegantly restored monuments dating from the 12 th to the 17 th century. Today, a sleepy, village-like atmosphere hovers over the town, bringing a quiet stillness to the evenings that only breaks with the crowing of the cockerels at first like. The supremely photogenic Rostov Kremlin features walls of delicate pink, enclosing a number of extraordinary 17th-century buildings including the domed Assumption Cathedral and the St John the Divine Gateway Church.

Sergiev Posad

The Russia destination guide presents to you Sergiev Posad – one of the most important spiritual centres of the Orthodox Church sometimes referred to as the ‘Russian Vatican’. This is because of its city-wide scattering of magnificent white-walled churches with contrasting blue and gold cupolas – the colour scheme most strongly associated with the perception of Russian divinity. Founded in 1340 by the country’s most revered saint, St Sergius of Radonezh, Sergiev Posad is one of Russia’s holiest destinations, attracting devoted pilgrims since the 14 th century.

How to get to the Golden Ring 

Moscow is the logical starting point for excursions into the Golden Ring region. This small group or private tour is popular among foreign visitors as it allows you to cover the most ground in the shortest amount of time. On a customised tour, you can choose your pitstops and overnight stays depending on which cities most strike your interests. This Russia Destination Guide will assist you in picking the right experience for you.

Day tours that operate out of Moscow and will hit up one or two of the closest towns from the capital (typically Sergiev Posad, or Suzdal, sometimes combined with Vladimir) but to truly appreciate the variety of the Golden Ring cities the languid beauty of its, a multi-day day tour is highly recommended. If you only have a limited amount of time, a tour encompassing an overnight stay and two-day detour from Moscow in the region’s most beguiling town of Suzdal is highly recommended.

It’s also possible to visit some of the major cities on the Golden Ring route via train, although not every popular destination on the route is serviced by a train station. A popular rail loop from Moscow allows for direct stops in Rostov, Yaroslavl, Ivanovo and Vladimir.

Destination #4: Lake Baikal

An ancient lake so vast in size it’s referred to as Siberia’s “inland sea”, the deepest point of Lake Baikal is an abyssal 1,637m, making this 30 million-year-old body of water the deepest lake in the world. Incredibly, 20% of the world’s entire freshwater supply is contained within Lake Baikal. The crescent-shaped lake extends for 636km from north to south and contains 27, mostly uninhabited islands. The vast Baikal region is home to several indigenous cultures, including the ethnic Buryat people who practice a unique form of Buddhism blended with ancient shamanistic rites and religious beliefs. Traditional villages are dotted along the lake’s shore, interspersed with taiga forest and rocky steppe terrain. The national park surrounding Baikal harbour diverse array of wildlife, and the lake’s waters are home to the N erpa , the beloved freshwater Baikal seal.

With its mirror-clear blue water and enthralling natural beauty, Lake Baikal is considered Siberia’s premier attraction and is recognised by UNESCO as one of Russia’s 28 World Heritage Sites. It will certainly enchant any Russia destination guide reader planning a trip to Russia.

Why visit Lake Baikal?

Lake Baikal offers something for every traveller. Readers of the Russia destination guide attracted to laidback summer cruise vacationers, who are adventure sports enthusiasts and culture buffs keen to discover will love this destination. The blend of European, Turkic and Mongol influences are found in the region’s languages, customs, cuisine and traditional ways of living.

With a surface that freezes solid between early January and late May, the ice covering Lake Baikal can be up to a metre thick, giving winter visitors the chance to experience unique activities such as ice driving, snowmobiling, ice fishing and ice rafting (river rafting on an actual chunk of Baikal ice). Lovers of landscape photography are drawn to Lake Baikal’s mystical frozen caves and shimmering ice floes. Summer is the season for Russia destination guide readers interested in multi-day cruises and epic kayaking expeditions to hidden coves and pristine beaches.

Weather in Lake Baikal and when to go

Lake Baikal has a maritime climate which is typically much milder than the rest of Siberia. The vast majority of visitors to Baikal arrive in the summer months, with peak season hitting between June and mid-August. Summer days in Baikal are typically warm and pleasant. Sunbathing and swimming are possible, although water temperatures of 15 degrees or below usually keep swim sessions bracingly short! Boating season starts with the break-up of pack ice in late June and can last until September, although cruise tours are generally offered in July and August.

Autumn falls between the end of August and October and is usually the rainiest time of year. Still, this Russia Destination Guide recommends this season’s exquisite autumn scenery for photographers looking to capture the red and gold flora of the forests and the moody, sometimes dramatically windy and stormy weather.

The lake freezes over between January and May. Baikal is arguably at its most enchantingly beautiful over the winter period. The extreme transparency of the lake’s solid surface allows you to peer beneath the ice and into the inky, unfrozen depths below. The ice caves and glittering hummocks are at their most impressive in March, when the ice is at its thickest and winter sports enthusiasts take to the lake for skating, biking, 4WDing and ice-hole fishing.

Highlights of Lake Baikal

For most tourists reading the Russia destination guide, the unofficial regional capital of Irkutsk is the gateway to Lake Baikal, which lies 70km to the east. With a population of about 600,000, Irkutsk is a compact and friendly city, well worth a visit for its charming traditional wooden architecture, 18th-century churches and local history and art museums.

Olkhon Island

Beautiful, rugged Olkhon is the most populated of Baikal’s islands, consisting of a scattering of tiny villages, occupied mainly by indigenous Buryat communities. The middle of the island, one of the highlights of this Russia destination guide journey, is a green sanctuary of Siberian taiga forest. Its majestic coast is made up of the rocky steppe, white sand beaches and soaring cliffs providing perfect vantage points for witnessing spectacular sunsets across the shimmering surface of the lake.

Circum-Baikal Railway

The Circum-Baikal railway is a short, picturesque stretch of railway running between Slyuduanka and Port Baikal, along with the southern tip of Lake Baikal. A steam train trip along the Circum-Baikal make a great day trip, passing through tunnels and bridges that serve to highlight the sheer feat of engineering that first made the journey possible in the early 1900s.

Baikal Nature Reserve

On a wild, southeastern stretch of Baikal’s coastline, the desolate mountains of the Khmer Daban Range descend steeply to the rocky shores of the lake. The park preserves subalpine meadows and tundra, and deep within the taiga forests, Siberian brown bear, lynx, otter, wolverine and golden eagle.

How to get to Lake Baikal 

The city of Irkutsk is considered the main tourist gateway to Lake Baikal for Russia destination guide travellers. Although it’s about 65km from the lake itself, it hosts an airport with several flights a day arriving from Moscow (around 7 hours). There are also regular flights from the major Russian cities, including St Petersburg, Yekaterinburg, Novosibirsk and Krasnoyarsk. Regular international flights are operated from Beijing and occasional flights from Bangkok, Hong Kong and seasonally, twice a week from Seoul. For the western shore of Lake Baikal, the closest airport is Ulan-Ude. It’s a smaller airport, serviced by flights from Moscow and the larger Siberian airports, as well as flights from Beijing.

Travel by train via the Trans-Siberian Railway:

If time isn’t a limiting factor for you, the Russia Destination Guide will go through a far more interesting way to reach Lake Baikal. This is via the Trans-Siberian Railway . If you’re taking the east-west route from Moscow, the train journey from Moscow to Irkutsk takes about three to four days. To reach Lake Baikal from the Irkutsk railway station, you’ll need to make your way by public transport to the main bus station in town, where buses regularly depart for Listvyanka.

Destination #5: Kamchatka

Once considered an inaccessible “edge of the world” location, only visited by the hardiest of adventure travellers, today Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula is gaining a reputation as one of Russia’s most remarkable tourist destinations. Make no mistake, Kamchatka is remote – with no road or railways connecting it to the outside world, the only practical access into this pristine wilderness is by air, and the only way to travel long distances inside this refreshingly undeveloped region is by 4WD or helicopter.

For this Russia Destination Guide readers keen to get closer to nature, this is a trip worth making. Located at the northernmost edge of the “Pacific Ring of Fire”, the Kamchatka Peninsula juts out dramatically from the northeastern tip of Russia. Thirty active volcanoes are scattered across the peninsula, including Klyuchevskaya Sopka, the largest in the Northern Hemisphere. Equally as stunning are, the 90 geysers and numerous hot springs that make up the 6km Geyser Valley. The second largest concentration of geysers on earth, this natural gem remains a virtually untouched region of raw geothermal power. Getting to Kamchatka is half the journey, but once you arrive, the raw beauty of this far-flung region will floor you.

Why visit Kamchatka?

For lovers of wildlife, challenging hiking and rugged natural scenery, Kamchatka is paradise on earth. If your idea of the ultimate adventure is scaling an active volcano, coming within metres of wild brown bears, or exploring some of the most remote and wildlife-rich coasts on earth, Kamchatka should be at the very top of your bucket list. Active travellers seeking unique physical challenges where few tourists have gone before should visit in winter for action-packed tours , or in summer for incredible backcountry sea kayaking and camping expeditions, tracing Kamchatka’s dramatic coastline, paddling beneath the shadows of volcanoes and riding the swirling Pacific surf.

Weather in Kamchatka and when to visit

Kamchatka stretches across several climatic zones. Central Kamchatka’s climate is mild and continental. The alpine valleys are characterised by frosty winters and hot, humid summers, while the coast experiences a temperate, marine climate. The summer and autumn months (June through to October) are by far the most popular when max temperatures range from 15°C to 30°C but a growing trend in winter sports means Kamchatka receives visitors year-round.

Kamchatka’s famous brown bears hibernate during the long, snowy winter, so you’ll need to visit between late July and mid-September to be able to spot them. Swimming and kayaking in Avacha Bay is possible during the summer months, and the fly fishing season is between May and October. Kamchatka’s ski resorts and off-piste mountain slopes attract hardcore snow junkies from January through to May.

Highlights of Kamchatka 

Volcanoes of the Pacific Ring of Fire

Kamchatka earns a deserving place as one of the most outstanding volcanic regions of the world, with a high density of active volcanoes. Rugged volcanic peaks interspersed with lush valleys, desolate lava-spewing plains and ancient glaciers form a dynamic landscaped with a strange, almost otherworldly sense of beauty. Nineteen active volcanoes are included in the within the six groups of UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites of Kamchatka. Travellers who fancy themselves as mountain trekkers can easily walk to the bases of some impressive mountains.

Valley of Geysers

Seething, steaming and periodically expelling huge volumes of hot water in a spectacular jet, geysers are a remarkable natural phenomenon. Kamchatka’s Geyser Valley is home to the second largest concentration of geysers on earth, scattered across a 6km basin with the Martian-like volcanic scenery. Due to their remote location, the geysers can only be accessed by helicopter. Once inside the valley, local guides and wooden walkways provide a safe passageway past some of the largest and most spectacular geysers.

The Brown Bears of Kamchatka

The Kamchatka brown bear , one of the largest subspecies of brown bear in the world. The region’s well-preserved wilderness has created a safe sanctuary for one of the most concentrated brown bear populations in the world, meaning summer sightings of these impressive animals are virtually guaranteed. During late July to mid-September, Kuril Lake hosts Kamchatka’s largest salmon spawning event, attracting about 2 million fish each season. Tourists, escorted by rangers can observe the bears as they swim, play and fish for salmon.

Kamchatka’s Pacific Coast

Vast, rugged and largely uninhabited, Kamchatka boasts one of the most isolated stretches of coastline in the world. The region’s capital, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, is situated beside the calm waters of Avacha Bay, under the shadow of the three Petropavlovsk volcanoes. Beyond Avacha are thousands of kilometres of rocky coastline. The most conspicuous residents here are seals, giant Stellar sea lions, orcas, whales and sea eagles.

Heli-Skiing in Kamchatka

For experienced skiers and snowboarders with a taste for the extreme, heli-skiing the untouched volcanic slopes of Kamchatka will be a wild winter adventure that’s virtually unrivalled. The experience starts with an incredible flight over the untamed peaks of the peninsula in a Russian chopper – the ultimate chairlift! Then, touchdown in the middle of nowhere and prepare for the free ride of a lifetime. Kamchatka is the only place on earth where it’s possible to ski down active volcanoes, and even to ski into the crater, with active steam vents smoking around you!

How to get to Kamchatka

Sandwiched between sub-Arctic Russia and the Pacific Ocean, Kamchatka has no overland routes leading into the region. There are no regular passenger ferries to anywhere in Kamchatka, so the only practical way for travellers to arrive is by air. You can find the airport located 20km from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky in the village of Yelizovo. There are daily flights from Moscow (nine hours), and several flights a week from St Petersburg, Khabarovsk, Novosibirsk, Vladivostok and Beijing. In the peak summer season, there are occasional flights from Anchorage, Alaska and Tokyo, Japan.

Destination #6: Karelia

Karelia exudes an air of magic unlike anywhere else in Russia. Encompassing vast tracts of untouched wilderness, the far northwestern republic is covered in dense forests, idyllic lakes and waterfalls, fertile hills and barren steppe country. Iconic animal species now extremely rare in much of Europe – bears, wolves, wolverine, lynx, reindeer, moose and otter roam freely along the Russian frontier.

Bordered by Finland and the White Sea, Karelia is not just a far-flung no-mans land but a living museum of human history. Inhabited by Scandinavian peoples for 6,000 years and intermittently contested by Finnish, Swedish, and Russian forces over centuries, Karelia, despite having much of its territory ceded to the Soviet Union in 1939, the region still retains a strong cultural connection with eastern Finland. Distinctly Karelian culture lives on in the peasant traditions of poetry, music and folk ceremonies that reinforce the people’s bond with the land and sea.  

Why visit Karelia?

This Russia Destination Guide will present to you some of the highlights and high points of this magnificent destination. Easily accessible from Moscow and St Petersburg, and blessed with extraordinary natural beauty, a unique culture unlike anywhere else in Russia and some of the best-preserved traditional wooden architecture in the country, Karelia slowly starting to appear on the radar of international travellers.

The region offers a fantastic mix of nature, outdoor adventure and cultural discovery, from the prehistoric petroglyphs near the White Sea Coast to the republic’s most famous attraction, the World Heritage-listed Kizhi Pogost, an open-air museum in the middle of a lake, dedicated to fine 17 th ad 18th-century wooden architecture.

Karelia is an equally enchanting eco-tourism destination for Russia destination guide readers, home to the primordial forests of  Kivach Nature Reserve , and  Ruskeala Mountain Park , a former marble quarry that has been naturally transformed over time into a magnificent flooded canyon, carved from a unique and harmonious fusion of the natural and the man-made.

Karelia’s rivers, lakes and streams allow off-the-grid kayaking, fishing and camping for weeks. In winter, the woods become an enchanting playground for dog sledding, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.

Weather in Karelia and when to visit

Generally speaking, Karelia has a continental climate zone, with typically much milder winters in contrast to other northern regions near the Arctic. However, Karelia’s climate has a reputation for being unpredictable, so no matter which season Russia Destination Guide traveller’s trips coincides with, be prepared for practically any weather.

The short summer period from June to mid-August is modestly warm, but this time of the year welcomes the most visitors to Karelia since it enjoys the sunniest days by far. By the peak of July, the famous ‘midnight sun’ visits northern Karelia, and shines almost around the clock. Expect maximum daytime temperatures of between 16 and 21°C. Karelia’s relatively mild temperatures make it one of the most comfortable destinations for experiencing winter in the Arctic zone. The Russia Destination Guide implores you to explore the ethereal taiga forests and fairytale wooden houses which look especially magical against a snowy winter backdrop. The snowy landscapes are perfect for enjoying favourite local sports such as snowmobiling, skiing and dog-sledding. Its proximity to the Arctic Circle means that the skies above Northern Karelia are sometimes graced with an appearance from the Northern Lights.

Highlights of Karelia

One of the largest open-air museums in Russia has been built on the island of Kizhi in the middle of Lake Onega. Kizhi is immediately recognisable thanks to the iconic Transfiguration Church. This masterpiece of timber architecture features five tiers of 22 wooden domes, built in 1714 without the use of a single nail. The pine walls and domes of the church change colour as the day progresses. The Kizhi State Museum is home to dozens of 18 th and 19th-century log buildings, some furnished in period style, moved here from Karelian villages during the Soviet era.

Ruskeala mountain park

Ruskeala was formerly a marble quarry, mined by the Swedes, Finns and Russians for around three centuries. The 109-metre wide canyon now stretches for 456 metres and its sides are riddled with caves and grottoes. Tall pines sprout from the tops of the canyon walls and the groundwater has become a river of deep emerald green, creating a truly beautiful union of the natural and the man-made. The canyon can be traversed by boat, and some of the caves and mine shafts can be explored with a professional guide.

Solovetsky Islands

The Solovetsky Islands, is a place that many travellers fantasise about visiting when in Russia but few actually ever end up doing so. Located in the Onega Bay of the White Sea, the archipelago is made up of 6 main islands and many smaller ones. The largest island is the Bolshoy Solovetsky and it is home to the main monastery, which dominates the rural idyll of Solovetsky Village, the islands’ main settlement.

Valaam Island

As one of the most popular Orthodox tourist destinations, the main attraction that draws visitors to its shores is the 14th century Transfiguration Monastery. It is a monumental structure that sits on top of the high hill, making it visible from many locations on the island. In the past, the monastery had been subjected to numerous accounts of destruction and devastation from fires and invasions. Now, the gardens, a bakery, vegetable patches and a farm, rolling prairies and granite cliffs with around 200 Orthodox monks living within its walls permanently.

How to get to Karelia

For Russia Destination Readers travelling within Russia itself, S7 Airlines fly between four and five times a week from Moscow (Domodedovo) to the Karelian capital of Petrozavodsk (approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes). The timetable changes regularly so keep an eye out on S7’s flight schedule. Petrozavodsk is a small airport about 12km out of town. Taxis or private transfers are the preferred means of getting into the city. Once you arrive at the Petrozavodsk airport, it is about a 12km drive to the city centre. Pre-arranged private transfers are typically the preferred methods of transportation to get to town.

There are several trains per week, both daytime and overnight departing from St Petersburg to Petrozavodsk (7 hours) or day trains (4 hours). Trains from Moscow to Petrozavodsk run daily, an overnight journey of around 16 hours. The twice-weekly train to Murmansk (capital of Kola Peninsula) also makes a stop in Petrozavodsk.

Travel by bus:

A bus service connects Petrozavodsk to Joensuu in Finland (Thursdays to Sundays) and takes around 4 hours and 40 minutes. There are also bus services to Petrozavodsk from St Petersburg, which takes between 5 and 6 hours and is an extremely cheap way to travel between the two cities.

Destination #7: Kola Peninsula

Pierced by the snow-dusted pines of the taiga forest in the south and blanketed by an endless expanse of tundra in the north, the Kola Peninsula is the quintessential Russian Arctic destination. Inhabited by reindeer-herding nomads and bound by the White and Barents Seas (plied by only the strongest of nuclear ice-breaker ships), this remote region is the stuff of romance and legend. Situated almost entirely above the Arctic Circle, between mid-May and July, daylight lasts a full 24 hours, bathing the peninsula in the dazzling light of the unsetting midnight sun. Conversely, for two months over winter, the Kola Peninsula is blanketed by the polar night, when the sky is only lit by the appearance of the mesmerising Aurora Borealis.

A land of jewel-like lakes and crystal clear rivers, unexplored mountain ranges and wildlife-rich Arctic coastline, Kola’s vast grasslands are subject to visiting grazing reindeer in their thousands over the summer months. Many of the indigenous Sami, who also inhabit northern Scandinavia, still live on to a semi-nomadic way of life, depending on reindeer herding for their livelihood, traversing the tundra on husky-drawn sleds and holding on to their own ancient customs, language and traditions.

Not all of Kola is untouched by modern development. The capital Murmansk, with a population of over 300,000, is the largest city north of the Arctic Circle, and despite its industrial port town feel, is a remarkably lively town, with bars and restaurants and interesting Naval history.

Why visit the Kola Peninsula?

Still very much a frontier tourist destination, Kola is a place for travellers seeking unusual and extreme environments and boundless Arctic wilderness. For those Russian Destination Guide readers keen on winter sports, Kola offers some of the Arctic region’s best cross-country skiing, and the opportunity to go snowmobiling in the taiga. For hardcore history buffs, the peninsula is also a hunting ground for Soviet-era ruins including a haunting submarine graveyard near the Russian naval base at Olenya Bay.

Between the months of September and April, the city of Murmansk receives an influx of visitors hoping to catch the cosmic dance of the Northern Lights above the city rooftops and the hills, forests and snowfields surrounding the town.

Weather in the Kola Peninsula and when to go

Despite its extreme northern location, Kola enjoys one of the mildest climates of any region above the Arctic Circle, thanks to the influence of the warm Atlantic currents. This has helped make Kola an attractive destination for Northern Lights tourism between the autumn and late winter months of September and April.

The coldest month is January, with an average temperature of about -10°C in the Murmansk region. July is the warmest month, with temperatures between 12 and 20°C. From early December till late January, the sun is hidden beneath the horizon day and night, with artificial light the only means of illuminating the infamous polar night. The season of the polar day is from late May to late July when bright sunshine persists regardless of the time of day.

Highlights of the Kola Peninsula 

The Northern Lights in the Kola Peninsula

Known as the best place in the Russian Arctic for a chance to witness the breathtaking spectacle of the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights , Murmansk and its surrounds have become one of the world’s premier destinations for observing and photographing this bewitching natural phenomenon. Although their appearance is unpredictable, the lights can be sighted between late August and April, with September to April considered the best months for maximising your chances.

Nomadic Saami culture

The Sami (or Saami) are also the most prominent indigenous group in Lapland, Scandinavia. So distant is their language and way of life from the rest of Russia the Sami-dominated parts of Kola are usually referred to as Lapland. With a local guide, it’s possible to visit a traditional Sami settlement where many traditional dwellings are still in use. You may be invited to test your reindeer lassoing skills, commandeer your own troupe of sled-pulling huskies and taste authentic Lappish cuisines such as Arctic fish soup and berry pie.

Snow Village

The Snow Village is an ambitious tourism project featuring ornately decorated buildings, sculptures, labyrinthine tunnels and intricately patterned rooms, painstakingly constructed almost entirely out of ice and snow. Drop in at the ice bar, watch a film at the snow cinema, check out the ice sculpture gallery or stroll through the enchanting “village” where you’ll encounter fairy tale characters, mythical snow maidens and perhaps even Santa Klaus himself.

Teriberka Village

Teriberka is an old village, located on the Barents Sea coast. The way to the village takes travellers through the tundra with splendid sceneries on their way. Teriberka village is an authentic place and you will be impressed by arctic nature, village life and almost destroyed households Soviet Union period, cemetery old wooden ships and the famous breathtaking view of the Arctic ocean.

Destination #8: Yamal

Once considered a virtually inaccessible “edge of the world” location, only visited by the hardiest of adventure travellers, Yamal is one of the last refuges of Siberia’s nomadic reindeer herders, custodians of a land of vast plains that stretch from the Polar Ural Mountains to the Kara Sea in the Arctic Ocean. While large-scale reindeer herding is slowly disappearing throughout Russia and the Arctic, Yamal’s remoteness has been key to the preservation of this ancient way of life practised by the indigenous Nenets. Even so, the discovery of immense oil and gas resources in the peninsula will mean the Nenets culture is becoming increasingly under pressure from modern industrial development.

With much of its territory above the Arctic Circle, Yamal means ‘edge of the world’ in the language of its indigenous people. Its administrative centre, the historic town of Salekhard (population 43,000) straddles the Arctic Circle. The Yamal Peninsula was considered so inhospitable that Stalin built his prison camps here. And yet a rich, colourful and resilient culture and ancient shamanistic religion have managed to survive here.

To survive Yamal’s extreme climate, the Nenets migrate with herds of up to 10,000 strong from their winter pastures in the southern taiga, north to their summer grazing lands near the Arctic Ocean. Crossing the frozen Ob, the world’s fifth-largest river is just part of a journey which can span over 1,000km, one way, making it one of the longest annual human migration routes in the world.

Why visit Yamal?

Very few foreigners have set foot on the Yamal Peninsula. There are no roads from outside into the area, and outsiders (both Russians and foreigners) must apply for a visitors permit at least two months ahead. Due to the challenging logistics of visiting Yamal, a guided tour is highly recommended.

The Russia Destination Guide presents to you the single most compelling reason to make this difficult journey to Yamal. Here, you can submerge yourself in a culturally immersive experience like no other. During the reindeer migration season, you will have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to live amongst the indigenous Nenets of Yamal, sleeping in their summer tented camps, working with reindeer and following them on part of their migration on wooden sleds through the snowy taiga forest. The highlight of the year for visitors to Yamal is the annual Reindeer Herder’s Festival , the most important event on the Nenets calendar which showcases all manner of reindeer-related physical challenges.

Weather in Yamal and when to go

Most of the Yamal territory is located within the northern part of the West Siberian Plain, and a small part of the eastern slope of the Ural Mountains. The climate of this region is characterised by long, harsh and winters of up to eight months, and short summers with strong winds and relatively light snow cover.

Summer temperatures hover around 5 to 25°C but the wind chill factor still makes warm clothing outside a must. In deepest winter, out on the tundra, temperatures of a staggering -50°C are common. Clothing and exposure protection suitable for extreme cold is an absolute must for surviving Yamal in the winter time. The Nenets wear heavy coats, hats and boots fashioned from reindeer skin, and while living with them in their tents, guests are highly advised to do the same.

Highlights of Yamal

Reindeer Migration with Nenets

Travel with the Nenets on one leg of their annual migration – it’s one of the most unforgettable and incomparable cultural experiences on earth! Each spring, the Nenets migrate from winter pastures on the Russian mainland to the summer pastures in the Arctic Circle, a one-way journey of up to 1,000km. This is a remarkable extraordinary opportunity to get to know one of the world’s last true nomadic reindeer herders through their eyes.

Reindeer Herder’s Festival in Yamal

The Reindeer Herder’s Festival is a one-day holiday, celebrated in late March or early April in Yamal. For the nomadic Nenets people, a festival day is a major event, which offers a chance to meet with friends and compete in contests of physical skill and a variety of other competitions. It has also become an event in which the Nenets are able to share with the world a rarely-glimpsed slice of their culture, which has remained relatively unchanged for centuries. Visits to the festival combined with a stay in a traditional nomad camp can be arranged by a specialist tour company.

How to get to Yamal

The Arctic city of Salekhard is the gateway to the rest of Yamal. There are direct flights from Moscow and St Petersburg (both around 3 hours) and also from Ekaterinburg (1.5 hours) on Yamal Airlines. Salekhard Airport is about 7km from the city centre.

Fancy a ride on the real, modern-day Polar Express? The train named the “Polar Arrow” was launched in 2013 and makes the 3,550km journey from Moscow, cutting through the Ural Mountains, hauling through Asia and Siberia and crossing the Arctic Circle to reach Labytnangi (the closest station to Salekhard) some 43 to 46 hours later. Taxis from Labytanangi will take you to Salekhard’s town centre in less than half an hour.

Destination #9: Altai Republic

The Altai Republic is, in a word, “diverse.” A mountainous region whose borders touch the semi-deserts of Mongolia and the vast Kazakh plains, Altai has one the most varied climates in Siberia. Still largely undiscovered, Altai now supports a growing, community-based eco-tourism industry. As well as being an incredible hike and ski destination, Altai offers the unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the traditions of the mountain-worshipping Altay people, whose ancient culture reflects Altai’s location at the crossroads of both Europe and East and Central Asia.

Altai is impossibly scenic – watch the scenery slide by as it rolls from rocky steppes to the high desert to impenetrable taiga forest. Colours shift, fields lay in hushed snowfall or blossom in spring. Everything changes here, with only one exception – Altai’s majestic mountain peaks. Home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site “The Golden Mountains of Altai”, the Altai Mountain Range is a refuge for some of the world’s rarest animal species. In the raw, rugged beauty of this long-forgotten wilderness, you can hike for miles in complete solitude. Go fishing in the pristine tributaries of the Katun and Chemal Rivers, search for snow leopard prints in the hills, explore vast underground cave complexes or get your fix of winter sports action in one of the region’s burgeoning boutique ski resorts.  

Why travel to Altai?

Blessed with unforgettable mountain scenery – eternally snow-capped alpine peaks, broad green valleys, rocky canyons and mighty glaciers – Altai cements its place in the Russia destination guide as the ultimate hiking destination. Altai has an enormous amount to offer lovers of landscape, nature and wildlife photography. Despite being a relatively unknown ‘adventure’ destination, Altai’s trekking routes offer something for hikers of all levels of experience, from easy jaunts in the foothills and meadowlands to hardcore, high-altitude multi-day and multi-week treks straddling the mountain ranges that straddle the Mongolian, Chinese and Kazaz borders. Altai’s hiking trails are endless and reaching the summit of one of the high peaks is of the most rewarding things to do in the Altai region.

Weather in Altai and when to go  

The Altai Republic has three main climatic zones – warm and humid continental, subarctic and cold semi-arid, making it essentially a year-round destination. Being located far from the oceans, the lands of the Altai Ranges heat up considerably in summer and cool rapidly in winter, making late spring and summer the ideal season for mountain trekking and camping.

Summer is peak whitewater rafting season in Altai. The Russia destination guide recommendation is to visit around the end of August where you may witness or participate in the White Water Siberia Forum, a sensational event that attracts professional rafters from around the world attempting to conquer the incredibly wild rapids and of the majestic Chuya River.

Highlights of Altai

The Golden Mountains of Altai

The Golden Mountains of Altai is a UNESCO World Heritage site forming the major mountain range in Western Siberia and the source of its greatest rivers – the Ob and the Irtysh. The region harbours the most diverse vegetation and microclimatic zones in central Siberia, from steppe to dense mix forest and high alpine vegetation. The dramatic Altai ranges are home to nearly 700 animal species, including the mountain ram, reindeer and the endangered snow leopard. Stunning Mount Belukha is the highest peak in Siberia at a cloud-piercing 4,506m.

Lake Teletskoye – The Golden Lake

Lake Teletskoye or Altyn-Köl, which means “Golden Lake” is the world’s second deepest freshwater body after Lake Baikal (up to 325m at its deepest point). A dazzlingly transparent aquamarine sometimes referred to as “Baikal’s Little Brother”, the lake spans 233 square kilometres and is surrounded by the alpine meadows, forests and the jagged, rocky peaks of the Altai mountain ranges.

The Indigenous Cultures of Altai

Altai is home to 5 million people speaking 40 languages. The indigenous population includes the various ethnic groups of the Alati people, descendants of the Turkic tribes with ancient cultural links to the Mongols. Among the most famous Altai ancestral traditions is throat singing. The style of throat singing or ‘overtone singing’, (as it sounds as though the vocalist is singing two notes in separate frequencies at the same time) performed in Altai is unique to certain cultures in Siberia and Mongolia.

How to get to Altai   

For Russia Destination Guide readers travelling within Russia, there are two main options for reaching the Altai Mountains by air. From Moscow, you can take a direct flight to Gorno-Altaysk, the capital of the Altai Republic. S7 Airlines runs about two flights a week (check the schedule for seasonal changes to the timetable) with a flight time of about 4 hours and 4 minutes.

Flights also operate several times a week from Moscow to Barnaul (just over 4 hours flight time), capital of the neighbouring Altai Territory and a larger and more developed city than Gorno-Altaysk, from where you can take public transport or rent a car for the three-hour drive to Gorno-Altaysk

Although it is not part of the Altai Republic, lying 447km from the Altai capital of Gorno-Altaysk, Novosibirsk is one the most popular jumping-off points for trips into rural Altai. As the largest city in Siberia, Novosibirsk is well serviced by air, with daily flights to and from all the major Russian cities and some international flights from Frankfurts, Hannover, Beijing, Seoul and Tel Aviv. The largest local airport it Tolmachovo Airport, located 20km west of the city centre by taxi, hotel shuttle bus or private transfer.

The Trans-Siberian Railway from Moscow passes through Novosibirsk, and travellers can disembark the train here before continuing their 5 and a half to 6-hour journey to Gorno-Altaksy by road.

From Novosibirsk or Baurnal, the cheapest way to get into Gorno-Altaysk is by bus. There are around 4 to 5 trips per day from Novosibirsk, while buses depart from Baurnal roughly every 2 hours.

We hope this Russia destination guide was informative and useful to you. Feel free to get in touch with our team for more information on options to travel to Russia.

[email protected] Ph: +61 93889816

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Russia travel guide

Russia tourism | russia guide, you're going to love russia.

Russia is the home of diverse culture and historical heritage and its size is just a great excuse to return and explore more.

What to do in Russia

1. visit the red valley.

The Red Valley is one of the best spots in Russia to snowboard and ski.

2. Hit the Sights in Moscow

Visit the Red Square, Moscow's most famous tourist attraction and landmark.

3. Visit St. Petersburg

In St. Petersburg, don't skip a tour of the famous Hermitage museum.

4. Discover Russian Nature

Travel to the east side of the country to explore the Stolby Nature Reserve.

5. Watch World-Renowned Bolshoi Ballet

Attend a ballet performance at the iconic Bolshoi Theater in Moscow.

When to visit Russia

If you want to see Russia covered in snow, the best time to travel is between November and April. It's the low season, but prices around New Year's tend to increase.

For travelers who prefer the warm weather, plan your trip in June for the White Nights event in St. Petersburg.

How to Get to Russia

Entry requirements.

Nationals from most countries in the world need a visa to enter Russia. The process is often bureaucratic, so start applying for the visa at least one month before your trip. Tourist visas are usually valid for up to one month.

Most international flights to Russia land at one of the three airports in Moscow (Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo, and Vnukovo) or the Pulkovo International Airport in St. Petersburg.

It's possible to enter Russia by train from most of the neighboring countries. Double check if there are special visa conditions for your nationality when crossing the border from one of them.

Russia is equipped with well-maintained roads and highways in urban areas. To drive, you need car registration and insurance papers, your driver's license, and your valid passport and visa.

It's best to cross the border in Latvia, Estonia, Finland, or Lithuania.

There are regular buses to Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Kaliningrad from Tallinn (Estonia), Riga (Latvia), Helsinki (Finland), Warsaw and Gdansk (Poland), and Klaipeda and Vilnius (Lithuania).

In the summer, there are frequent ferry routes to St. Petersburg from Helsinki (Finland), Stockholm (Sweden), and Tallinn (Estonia).

Popular airports in Russia

Popular airlines serving russia, where to stay in russia.

Chain hotels are the most common type of accommodation you'll find in Russia. In large touristic cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg, it's becoming more common to find budget-friendly hostels.

Where to stay in popular areas of Russia

Most booked hotels in russia, how to get around russia, public transportation.

Moscow and St. Petersburg have an excellent subway network, but most cities are served by an efficient system of trams, buses, and trolleybuses.

On average, a bus or tram ticket can cost approximately 15-50 RUB (0.25-0.80 USD) per person.

Getting around by train is one of the most popular and comfortable options. Almost all cities and towns are connected by an efficient railroad with trains that usually run on time.

Long-distance trains are for trips of four hours or longer. For smaller distances, you can take a commuter train.

Long-distance buses are usually used to reach areas not served by regular trains. An extra fee may be charged if you're traveling with luggage.

Renting a car, with or without a driver, is less of a hassle than bringing your car unless you're traveling for a long time in Russia. You'll need your local driver's license, an International Driving Permit, insurance, car registration papers, and a declaration for customs stating that you won't leave your car behind when leaving the country.

The rule of thumb to decide to travel by plane within Russia is to check how long it takes to reach that destination by train. If it involves more than an overnight trip, than catching a domestic flight might be a better option. Most flights depart from Moscow.

The Cost of Living in Russia

Eating out can average between approximately 500 RUB (8 USD) for a cheap meal and 1,000 RUB (16 USD) for a more expensive one. Bus and subway tickets cost around 15-50 RUB (0.25-0.80 USD). A week's worth of groceries costs around 600 RUB (9.50 USD). Both credit and debit cards are accepted and ATMs are commonly found.

Russia Travel

“Russia is a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma.”

Winston Churchill’s observation is as pertinent today as it was in the mid-20th-century. Russia is as intriguing as it ever was. Stubbornly standing its ground as a country which will bow down to no conventions-refusing to be classified as either European or Asian-Russia is still Russia.

While the country has modernised in leaps and bounds since the fall of the USSR, the culture remains ever defiant in its distinctness to western norms. Stirring ballets and operas, not soppy musicals, fill the playbills and sincerity, which is often mistaken for seriousness, i s valued over shows of pleasantries.

Apart from the allure of the enigmatic Russian soul, there are countless other reasons to visit the world’s largest country. Its pristine forests are ripe territory for explorers thirsty for adventure and eye-opening vistas. Villages and cities alike are treasure-troves for history-fanatics. And, since the collapse of the Soviet Union, both art and religion have blossomed — reviving the rich legacy left by the Russian Empire.

Should you already have your heart set on Russia and simply need guidance on the practicalities of visiting this magnificent country, please see our Russia travel tips page.

Your Guide to Russia by a Local Travel Expert

• 1. What is Russia Famous for?
• 2. Is Russia Safe to Visit?
• 3. Top Destinations
• 4. Top Experiences
• 5. Visa Matters
• 6. Russia Travel Seasons
• 7. Russia Travel Map
• 8. Holidays and Festivals
• 9. Curious about Russian Cuisine?
• 10. Dos and Don’ts in Russia
• 11. Speak the Language
• 12. Virtual Russia Travel Guide: Further Reading
• 13. At Your Service

What is Russia Famous for?

R oyal residences: The Romanov family possessed one of the greatest fortunes in their times, most of which they used in building the most extraordinary palaces and parks.

O rthodox religion: The golden cupolas of Orthodox Churches have brightened up Russia’s villages and cities for almost half a millennial. Submerge yourself in the history and traditions of this ancient religion.

S oviet history: In all of Russia’s cities, the Red forces left their indelible mark. Though the gargantuan concrete structures may seem oppressing even today, they are a must-see for anyone hoping to understand Russia’s history.

S cenery: Being the largest country on earth, Russia has no shortage of sights to take your breath away. Any enthusiast of the great-outdoors should see Lake Baikal, Mt. Elbrus and the Siberian Taiga.

I zbas: Far away from civilisation, deep in the depths of Russia’s forests, villages made up of traditional izbas (log houses) seem to come out of a distinctly Russified version of Handsel and Gretel.

Y uletide: Russia is special in any season. But for those who brave the cold and come in December, something more than just special awaits.

A rt: Ballet, poetry, architecture, landscape: Russians have mastered the language of the heart better than any other nation. Experience the crème-de-la-crème of Russian art from the glittering balconies of the Mariinsky and Bolshoi and delve into its history down the marble corridors of the Hermitage and the Tretyakov Gallery.

Is Russia Safe to Visit?

Despite the political jostling between the West and Russia, Russia is as safe for tourists as any other European destination. Since the wild '90s, a lot has changed. Russian cities now have lower crime rates than some of their counterparts in America and corruption in the police force is no longer the norm. Though only a third of Russians speak English, foreigners are met with enthusiasm (and rounds of vodka) in almost all regions of Russia. There are less savoury locations in the south of Russia, but these regions are far from the tourist trails. The only danger that could pose an actual threat to visitors is Russians’ infamously reckless driving. Only taking licensed taxis and crossing roads with care easily solves that issue.

Top destinations

Discover the real Russia — feel the force of history on the Red Square and be dazzled by the best of Russian culture at the Bolshoi — while having all the comforts and conveniences of big city life at your fingertips. Centuries-old royal estates like Tsaritsyno, haunts of the soviet-era — such as Lenin’s Mausoleum and the Seven Sisters — along with the high-rises of Moscow City and high-tech of Star City paint a vivid picture of Russia’s history; from its beginnings as a princedom to the capital of a world superpower. There’s no better place to start your journey into Russia than the sprawling, roaring, yet always welcoming capital that is Moscow: Europe’s biggest city.

Saint Petersburg

See Russia from the vantage point of one of the world’s most cultured cities: Saint Petersburg. Far away from the buzz of Moscow, time seems to stand still. Reflections of baroque palaces glitter in canals and the golden domes of neo-classical cathedrals dominate the skyline unblighted by high-rises. The Hermitage, Peterhof and the Mariinsky — bastions of prestige — are complemented by hidden gems such as the Alexander Nevsky Monastery and Pavlovsk Palace. In Russia’s Imperial capital, culture, history and architecture intertwine to form a city so romantic that it would make a poet’s heart sing.

Dive deep into Slavic culture in the land of the taiga, Ural Mountains and Lake Baikal in Russia’s largest region: Siberia. See how generations of Siberians have braved the extreme climate in historic towns like Tobolsk and marvel at the forces of nature in the boundless wilderness of Siberia’s forests.

Off the beaten-track destinations

On the banks of the Volga, east meets west in the capital of the Republic of Tatarstan: Kazan. Having been founded more than a millennial ago by the Mongols, the city still retains the pompous aura befitting for a key city of the Golden Horde. Elements of Orthodoxy and Imperialism, however, diluted the Oriental influences during the five hundred year Russian rule. See Russia’s lesser-known side, uncover its ties to both Arabia and Asia and meet Russians of many faiths and faces: like a matryoshka doll, Kazan is full of surprises.

Nizhny Novgorod

As the largest closed city in the Soviet Union, this historic hub of industry still remains unknown to most tourists. Yet, according to UNESCO, its collection of medieval cathedrals merits it a place in the top 100 cities of the world. Sail the 300 mile journey from Moscow up the Volga or catch the overnight train to have ancient Rus’ treasures almost all to yourself.

Veliky Ustyug

In the northerly Vologda region, in forests deep and dark, a land of mythical creatures beckons those who are young at heart. Ded Moroz (Father Frost — the Russian Santa Claus) welcomes thousands of guests to his official residence on the outskirts of this small town. Within his whimsically carved wooden palace, Russia’s oldest fairytales are brought to life with the help of the ghastly Baba Yaga and gorgeous Snegurochka. Veliky Ustyug itself is delightfully quaint — being one of the few towns in Russia with almost all its pre-revolution architecture intact. In tsarist times, it was famed for its craftsmen who produced religious iconography — examples of which can be admired in the town’s Museum of Iconography.

Top Experiences

Visa Matters

Tourist visas for visits of 30 days or less can be obtained through Russian consulates, official visa centres or via tour operators like us. The requirements are literally as easy as 1-2-3 to meet. A visa application form, passport and letter of invitation are all that is needed. But, while in theory it may be smooth sailing, the practicalities of applying for a visa in a Russian consulate can make the process rather daunting. Worldwide, dreadful queues and waiting lists served with the typical lack of courtesy characterise Russian consulates. The fees official visa centres or tour operators charge are almost always more palatable than the ordeal that is an appointment at a Russian consulate. While US citizens must apply for a visa via one of the ways listed above, some nationalities can avoid the queues and fees entirely. Lucky nationals of Israel, South Africa, Qatar and the UAE among a few others can visit Russia for up to 90 days without any visa. While citizens of other countries like the EU, China, Norway, Switzerland, India, Mexico, Saudi Arabia and Turkey can also skip consulate queues by applying for a free, 8-day e-visa when going to designated tourist areas like Saint Petersburg.

For further information or assistance please visit our page dedicated to visa applications .

Best Time to Visit Russia

It is difficult to generalise when speaking about a country as vast as Russia. With regards to weather, this is especially true. While certain parts of Russia are indeed formidably freezing, down south the flocks of Russian holidaymakers on picture-perfect beaches gleefully disprove the stereotype that Russia is miserably cold. That being said, the majority of foreigners only visit north-western cities like Saint Petersburg and Moscow and hence the climate most tourists need to prepare for can be characterised as moderately cold European weather. To read about the climate of other Russian regions click here or take look at our travel map below.

When to visit the North-West of Russia:

Spring: Winds of change, fresh and vibrant, fill the air with excitement as crowds bustle in the streets to celebrate the end of winter with an endless stream of public holidays. Defender of the Fatherland Day, Women’s Day, Maslenitsa (blini week), May Day and Victory Day all make for perfect excuses to visit Russia in spring, as do the bargain prices. But though Russians may mark the beginning of spring with much ado in March, snow, ice and knuckle-freezing temperatures are all possible till mid-May.

Summer: Russia isn’t known for its warm summers but, in fact, the period from mid-May to August is almost always pleasant, if not a little too pleasant (temperatures can shoot to 30c and over in cities like Moscow). Prices rise with the temperature as tourists stream in to marvel at the sprawling royal estates in full bloom and the enchanting White Nights in Saint Petersburg. While the main ballet troupes embark on international tours during the summer down season, outdoor festivals like Scarlet Sails take centre stage and enthral crowds till the wee hours of the morning.

Autumn: Affectionately known as Babye Leto (Indian summer), the first few weeks of Russian autumn are often just as golden as the leaves on the parkland trees. As the 20c temperatures plunge towards the end of September, locals replace their weekend strolls with days in the near-empty museums and warm up during the crisp evenings in cozy jazz bars or lavishly-decorated theatres for the start of the ballet season.

Winter: There is no view more quintessentially Russian than that of a church’s onion domes bulging out under a quilt of snow. Nor is there a season that reflects the character of the Russian people better. For those prepared to wrap up warm, a whole month of merriment and heart-warming sincerity during the New Year celebrations awaits as do a multiplicity of traditional and daredevil winter sports.

Russia Travel Map

Use the Russia Map to locate the country’s main cities and find out what each one has to offer:

Holidays and Festivals

Organise your travels to Russia around one of these celebrations:

New Year Season (December to January 8th) – Undoubtedly the nation’s best-loved holiday, Russia’s legendary New Year’s celebrations officially last a whole week. Unofficially, Russians usually pop open the champagne and start turning the music up by the middle of December when New Year’s bazaars, outdoor ice-rinks and ice festivals are in full swing. Uniquely in Russia, one can see in the New Year twice. The splendour of the fireworks, feasts, family-gatherings and fun in the snow are repeated yet again on January 14th — New Year according to Russia’s pre-revolutionary, Julian calendar. Best place to celebrate: Moscow or Saint Petersburg

International Woman’s Day (8th March) – “International Woman’s Day” is a bit of a misnomer. While the day is most certainly feminine (chocolates and flowers are the symbols of this holiday), only ex-Soviet states and their allies actually celebrate Women’s Day in a meaningful way. Along with appreciating mothers, grandmothers, sisters and aunties, this holiday also doubles as a Russian alternative to Valentines Day. This combination of feminism, family and romance may be unorthodox, but somehow it all merges together to form something really special. Best place to celebrate: Moscow

Maslenitsa (Late February-Early March) – This holiday is the perfect excuse to indulge in all the delights of the Russian cuisine. While often translated as “Shrovetide”, Maslenitsa differs starkly from Pancake Day. For starters, the pancake flipping lasts an entire week and the resulting mountains of buttery golden, paper-thin discs are quite unlike western pancakes. In Russia, pancakes or blinis are a meal in themselves. Caviar, fried mince, potatoes, condensed milk and sour cream are just some of the delights stuffed within blinis. Best place to celebrate: Moscow and the Golden Ring

• Siberian Maslenitsa Tour

Victory Day (9th May) – Russia may well be an enigma, but it can become that bit more comprehensible if one learns some of its history. Each spring, on the anniversary of the surrender of Nazi Germany, Russia’s sorrowful history is relived with great passion and pride. The grand parades, solemn ceremonies and nation-wide exhibitions provide the perfect opportunity for foreigners to peer into the Russian national psyche. Arrive a few days earlier on May 1st to see the equally grand May Day celebrations which hark back to the communist parades, with their red banners and mega-floats, banging the drum for workers’ rights. Best place to celebrate: Moscow or Saint Petersburg

White Nights Festival (June) – From May 26th to July 16th, Saint Petersburg becomes the only city in the world with a population of over 1 million to be plunged into the endless days of the polar summer. Strolling under a frothy-pink sky at midnight is a mesmerising experience in itself but, in typical Saint Petersburg fashion, even the seemingly perfect is improved upon and taken to new heights. With the bright-sky as a backdrop, Saint Petersburg’s renowned performing arts troupes take to the streets and wow audiences with pirouettes, arias and rock concerts. The festivities peak at the height of June with the other-worldly high-school graduation celebration, Scarlet Sails; a recreation of a romantic Russian fairytale with a nautical twist. Best place to celebrate: This festival is only held in Saint Petersburg

Spasskaya Tower International Military Music Festival (Late August – Early September) – Fighting for the love and admiration of the audience with the clamouring beat of drums and bellow of trombones, the annual military tattoo in Moscow is a ‘battle of the bands’ in the truest sense of the word. Army bands from the world over come to the Red Square for the chance to march past the monumental walls of the Kremlin in an annual show of musical and military prowess. The harmonious combination of military, classical, folk and pop music, parades and light shows makes this festival one of the brightest and most memorable events of the year. Best place to celebrate: This festival is only held in Moscow

Curious about Russian Cuisine?

The Top Best Dishes to taste while in Russia:

Refined Tastes of Saint Petersburg

Finely sliced beef sautéed in sour cream and forest mushrooms served on a bed of either rice or pasta. This immensely popular dish was dreamed up in the 19th century by French chefs for the ageing Count Stroganov who couldn’t chew tough meat.

As soon as the ice on the Neva melts, quaint fishermen’s boats sail through the centre of Saint Petersburg to catch bucket-loads of silvery smelt. On corner cafes and streets stands, dozens of these finger-sized fish are battered and fried to a crisp. Locals sometimes call these fish “cucumbers” because of their peculiarly fresh, cucumber smell.

Many of Russia’s most elaborate dishes can be traced to the royal scullery of the Hermitage. Comprising of dozens of crisp, caramelised layers of honey biscuit slathered in whipped crème-fraiche, even Empress Elizabeth — who detested honey — was wowed over by the floral notes and luscious creaminess of this cake. Medovik is one of many delectable desserts created by the confectioners of the Romanov court that are still enjoyed by Russians.

Hearty Slavic Foods in Moscow

Piping-hot, puffy and bite-sized, Russian piroshki are worlds-apart from flat american-pies or flaky cornish-pasties. They are an integral part of the Russian diet — the original Slavic fast food — and are especially popular in Moscow. Fillings range from savoury to sweet and change with the seasons: berries or fresh cottage cheese for summer and wild mushrooms, potatoes or baked pumpkin for winter.

The humble blini rules supreme as the ultimate culinary achievement of Russia. The difference between a pancake and a blin may just be a pinch of yeast, a teaspoon of caviar and a dollop of cream, but these small alterations make all the difference. In Moscow’s ritzy restaurants, one can savour the most sumptuous renditions of this classic Slavic dish.

Invented in 1978 by a confectioner in Moscow’s Praga restaurant, the unique combination of the cake’s airy vanilla mousse, entrapped in a thin layer of crisp chocolate and cushioned by a fragrant sponge is simply beyond belief. Hence, the cake’s unusual name. It’s so delicious it seems too good to be true — a little like mythical birds’ milk.

Rib-Sticking, Fiery Siberian Dishes

Stuffed with satiating fillings and served simmering hot with a spoon of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, Siberian pelmeni were made for firing up bellies in the harshest of winters. Throughout the ex-USSR, renditions of these petite dumplings abound. The Ukrainians have varenyiki, the Poles pierogi, but none come close to rivalling the original, meaty, umami-spiced pelmeni of the Siberian hunters.

From the seemingly boundless waters of the Baikal, fishermen haul in copious stocks of fish. The most prodigious species of fish in Baikal, the Omul, is preserved through an age-old curing process. Long lines of these semi-desiccated fish can be seen drying in between windows, trees, market stalls and even bus stops throughout Siberia. These salted fish are then shipped throughout Russia where they are considered a delicacy.

Check out our Russia Travel Guidebook for Food for an in-depth look at:

• Russian National Cuisine

Dos and Don’ts in Russia

• Carry your passport and visa with you at all times. The police sometimes ask foreigners, especially men, to present their IDs.
• Dress modestly, take off your hat and cover your hair with a scarf (if female) when visiting religious sites.
• Be prepared for very cold weather in winter and sweltering days in summer.
• Contact your bank in advance to notify them of your travels to Russia so as to ensure your card payments aren’t subject to undue security restrictions in Russia.
• Carry at least 2000 roubles in cash — card readers aren’t universal. Also, American Express and Discover customers should bear in mind that these sort of cards aren’t usually accepted as a means of payment.
• Use taxi hailing apps or licensed cab companies to get around: it’s easy and avoids the risks that could come with flagging down a ride.
• Look twice when crossing the road, even when crossing on green.
• Drink alcohol outside on the streets or anywhere that isn’t a bar or a restaurant — it could be against the law.
• Buy alcohol or cigarettes from unlicensed buyers.
• Drink unfiltered tap water.
• Purchase antiques of value without procuring an export certificate from the seller.
• Be scared to ask for help. Most Russians understand English, even if they’re too embarrassed to speak it.
• Accept free drinks (foreigners are often targets for drink spiking) or invites to clubs or even museums by strangers on the street.

Speak the Language

Knowing a few basic phrases in the local language will endear you to people and open up doors for friendship and connection during your travels in Russia. Some words and sayings that may come in handy:

Virtual Russia Travel Guide: Further Reading

• Russia Travel Tips
• Russia Tours Page

At Your Service

Whether you’re visiting Russia for the first or hundredth time, a little help and expertise from our passionate team in Moscow will go the way to making sure your trip to Russia is perfect from touch-down to take-off.

Our Russia travel services include:

RUSSIA GUIDE

• UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• Rites and Customs
• Russian Customs
• Russian Cuisine
• Russian Food
• Russian Dishes
• Circum-Baikal Railway
• Exhibitions & Events

RUSSIA TRAVEL

• Travel Restrictions - Covid-19
• Best Time to Visit

Regions [ edit ]

Russia (excluding the disputed territories) is divided into 83 federal subjects: 46 oblasts (provinces), 21 republics, 9 krais (territories), 4 autonomous okrugs, 2 federal cities and 1 autonomous oblast.

Other destinations [ edit ]

• 56.832113 60.348417 1 Border of Europe and Asia — it's clearly defined near Yekaterinburg , and a very popular stop for photo ops straddling the continents!
• 56.8 39.79 2 Golden Ring — a popular loop of pretty historical cities and towns forming a ring northeast of Moscow
• 57 160 3 Kamchatka — the region of active volcanoes, geysers, mineral springs, and bears walking in the streets.
• 62.066667 35.225 4 Kizhi — one of the most precious sites in all Russia, Kizhi Island on Lake Onega is famous for its spectacular ensemble of traditional wooden churches
• 65.07 60.15 5 Komi Virgin Forests — profoundly remote, and hard-to-visit, but this is by far Europe's largest wild area, containing Europe's largest National Park, Yugyd Va
• 53.5 108 6 Lake Baikal — the "pearl of Siberia" is the world's deepest at 1,642 meters and biggest lake by volume and a remarkable destination for all who love the outdoors
• 48.7425 44.536944 7 Mamaev Kurgan — a massive monument and museum on and about the battlefield upon which the twentieth century's most pivotal battle played out: Stalingrad
• 65.024444 35.710556 8 Solovetsky Islands — far north in the White Sea and home to the beautiful Solovetsky Monastery, which has served as both a military fortress and a gulag throughout its tortuous history

History [ edit ]

Tsarist russia [ edit ].

Russian identity can be traced to the Middle Ages, its first state known as Kievan Rus and its religion rooted in Byzantine Christianity (i.e. Orthodox) that was adopted from Constantinople . However, it was not considered part of mainstream Europe until the reign of Tsar Peter the Great, who ruled from 1682 to 1725. He is credited with modernizing the country, and transforming it into a major European power. As part of this effort, he moved the capital from the medieval and insular city of Moscow to St. Petersburg, a city built by force of his will and the strength of his treasury.

The Russian Empire reached its peak during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, producing many colorful and enlightened figures such as Catherine the Great, and authors Fyodor Dostoevsky, and Leo Tolstoy. Nevertheless, the gulf between the authoritarian dynasty and its subjects became more apparent with each generation. While Russia proved to be at least equal to some of the great powers as early as in the Great Northern War (1700-1721) and the Seven Years' War (1756-1763), it wasn't until Napoleon's ill-fated invasion that the rest of Europe took note, that Russia had risen to become a great power on equal footing with France, Prussia or Austria. By the late 19th century, political crises followed in rapid succession, with rebellion and repression locked a vicious cycle of death and despair. The occasional attempts to reform the society and ameliorate the condition of the underclasses invariably ended in failure. To make matters worse, the Crimean and the Russo-Japanese wars proved disastrous militarily but even more politically. The 1905 revolution was in part caused Japan humiliating the Russian military, the first time in centuries that an Asian power had defeated a Western one.

Russia entered World War I on the side of Britain and France, ostensibly to defend Serbia, with catastrophic results for the empire. Tsar Nicholas II and his wife, proved to be feckless, weak, and distracted by personal tragedies and the burdens of the war. By 1917, morale was abysmal, desertion rampant, and a general call for peace omnipresent.

The government proved unable to hold back the two revolutions of 1917. While the short-lived provisional government that resulted from the revolution of February 1917 tried in vain to fight on, the Bolsheviks under their leader Vladimir Lenin promised bread, peace and an end to the unfair distribution of land and wealth. By October 1917 the communist Bolsheviks had taken over Moscow and St. Petersburg (soon to be renamed Leningrad) and thus the effective control of the government. Deposed and held under house arrest, the Romanov dynasty were execued on the order of the new government and buried in unmarked graves. They were found after the fall of communism, and reburied in the St. Paul and Peter Cathedral in Saint Petersburg .

Communist Russia [ edit ]

By 1917, Imperial Russia's governmental and social institutions were strained to the breaking point by World War I . Following a brief interim government headed by social democrat Alexander Kerensky, the Bolshevik faction of the Communist Party under Marxist Vladimir Lenin seized power, withdrew Russia from the war, and launched a purge of clerics, political dissidents, aristocrats, the bourgeoisie, and the kulak class of wealthy independent farmers and landholders. A brutal civil war between the "Red Army" of the communist leadership and the "White Army" of the nobility and middle classes lasted until late 1920. In the civil war, both reds and whites committed war crimes and devastated the country well beyond what it had suffered in the First World War. In his years in power, Lenin used the Red Army and the internal security apparatus to kill imprison or exile millions of political opponents, launch a terror campaign to enforce strict Communist orthodoxy, secure control over the fragments of the old Romanov Empire, and collectivize farmers and farming into gigantic state-owned farms.

Following Lenin's death in 1924, a power struggle among the Bolshevik leadership ensued, with Josef Stalin emerging as the new leader of the Communist Party and dictator of the Soviet Union. Stalin's brutal rule (1928–53) was marked by waves of "purges" in which suspected dissidents in the government, the party, the Red Army, and even the security forces were executed or exiled to gulags (prison camps) on little or no evidence. In addition to following up Lenin's forced collectivization of agriculture and his destruction of private property and economic liberty, Stalin introduced a ruthless economic system ("socialism in one country") that rapidly industrialized the Soviet Union. While the death toll was abhorrent, Stalin's first five-year plan managed to create a heavy industry almost out of thin air, a fact that would prove decisive in the Second World War. Although seen as less of an idealist than his predecessor, Stalin did relentlessly pursue international revolution through the Russia-based Comintern control over the communist parties of foreign countries, and through foreign espionage. If you want to get an idea about Stalin's rule, Animal Farm and 1984 by George Orwell were in large part based on his disillusionment with communism after hearing of Stalin's atrocities.

World War II , from a Soviet perspective, began with Stalin abruptly entering into a Non-Aggression Pact with Nazi Germany. The treaty, which shook Western governments to their core and stunned the Left in Europe and America, guaranteed Hitler a free hand to launch a war against Poland, France, and the United Kingdom. The pact also granted the USSR leave to invade and conquer neutral Finland and take over all of eastern Poland after the German invasion in 1939. Finally in June 1941, having conquered France and most of the rest of Western Europe, Hitler turned on his erstwhile ally and invaded the USSR. A change to an alliance of necessity with the Western nations was instrumental in the defeat of Nazism in 1945. The Red Army's bloody campaigns on the Eastern Front as well as the murderous warfare and related crimes of the Nazis resulted in over 20 million Russian deaths, most of them civilian victims, or soldiers thrown into ghastly land battles.

After the Second World War, the USSR rapidly moved to establish control over all of Eastern Europe , and grew into a global superpower rivalling the United States , thus heralding the Cold War . It annexed the Baltic states and installed Communist regimes in East Germany, Poland, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, Bulgaria, Romania, and Albania and effectively crushed political dissent. In Asia, it also helped to install Communist governments in Mongolia, China, North Vietnam, North Korea, Cambodia, and Laos. Western critics came to describe the USSR and its European and Asian "satellites" as trapped behind an "Iron Curtain" of ruthless totalitarianism and command economies. Uprisings in East Germany (1953), Hungary (1956) and Czechoslovakia (1968) were ruthlessly crushed by the Soviet Army.

After Stalin's death in 1953, Soviet heavy industry and military might have continued to grow under Georgy Malenkov (1953-1955) and Nikita Khrushchev (1955-1964), Stalin's successors as General Secretary of the Party. Although attempts were made to produce consumer goods, the efforts usually failed, and the USSR continued to struggle under the yoke of collectivization and totalitarianism. In 1956, Khrushchev denounced the excesses of Stalin's regime and commenced his purge of sorts to "de-Stalinize" the economy and society of the USSR. Results were mixed, and Khrushchev was deposed. In the late 1950s, the USSR jump-started the space race and was the first to launch a thing (Sputnik), a living thing (Laika the dog), a man (Yuri Gagarin), and a woman (Valentina Tereshkova) into space. However, in-fighting, a lack of funds and incorrect technological and strategic decisions led to the Soviet space program being overtaken by the US thereafter. When the moon landing in 1969 proved that the Americans were now in the lead, the focus of the Soviet space program was instead changed to unmanned probes and a space station. The Soviet Union reached its military, diplomatic, and industrial peak during the closing years of Leonid Brezhnev (1964-1982). But continuing corruption and economic malaise marched inexorably to a crisis that led General Secretary Mikhail Gorbachev (1985–91) to introduce glasnost (openness) and perestroika (restructuring). His initiatives inadvertently released forces that by December 1991 splintered the empire. The European satellites broke free from rule by the USSR and their local Communist leaders, and the USSR collapsed into 15 independent countries.

Modern Russia [ edit ]

The emergence of the Russian Federation from the Soviet Union was accompanied by numerous problems. Boris Yeltsin, the first leader, rose to power after opposing a KGB coup. Although Yeltsin was initially seen as a charismatic, pro-Western leader, his administration was widely regarded as corrupt, inefficient, and unstable.

Yeltsin pursued a highly controversial economic policy known as "shock therapy" which sought to transform Russia into a capitalist economy overnight by eliminating all Soviet-era price controls on essential goods and privatizing the state-owned industries en masse. However, this led to several years of economic hardship, and organized crime gained more influence over the nation. Additionally, a war with Chechen separatists further complicated matters for the country. On December 31, 1999, Yeltsin resigned and appointed Vladimir Putin, a former KGB officer, as his successor.

During Putin's first and second presidential terms, the Russian economy expanded, standards of living markedly improved, rebel movements in the North Caucasus were suppressed, and Russia regained its position as a major global power. After serving his constitutionally limited terms, Dmitry Medvedev was appointed as his successor and Putin became Prime Minister. In 2008, Russia invaded Georgia and recognised two of its regions — Abkhazia and South Ossetia — as independent countries. An independent EU report accused and blamed Georgia for provoking the Russians and Russia for employing excessive military force. As expected, Putin was elected as President again in 2012 after finishing his term as Prime Minister.

Things markedly changed during Putin's third presidential term. In 2014, Putin annexed Crimea and supported wars in Eastern Ukraine , culminating in international sanctions and isolation from the West. In 2018, Putin was elected to serve another presidential term. In February 2022, Putin launched a large-scale invasion of Ukraine and annexed four Ukrainian oblasts, much to the shock and horror of the international community. The invasion has significantly contributed to food crises worldwide and has further exacerbated Russia's demographic crisis.

Where the future lies after Putin is anybody's guess.

Geography [ edit ]

Russia is a large, vast, colossal Eurasian nation, covering 17,098,246 square kilometres (6,601,670 sq mi) of land. This makes it the world's largest country. Russia is slightly larger than Antarctica , around the same size as South America , and half the size of Africa . The country has the same surface area as the dwarf planet Pluto.

The terrain consists of broad plains with low hills west of the Urals ; vast coniferous forest and tundra in Siberia ; uplands and mountains along southern border regions; mountainous and volcanic throughout much of the Russian Far East .

Climate [ edit ]

Russia is a cold country , but there are always shades in the grey. The contrast of tundra's permafrost, which occupies 65% of Russian land and exotic Black sea coast has in between the continental climate, which is the most inhabited zone of European Russia, southern regions of Siberia, and the Russian Far East. Its summers are always warm with a good portion of hot days enabling outdoor swimming in many rivers, lakes, and the seas.

Holidays [ edit ]

Russia's list of holidays is divided into federally and regionally established, ethnic, historical, professional, and religious. The first two types are all-country day-off and should be taken into account while planning a trip. These are official holidays in Russian Federation:

• New Year Holidays (1–5 January) are often merged with Christmas and make up more than a week off.
• Orthodox Christmas (7 January).
• Fatherland Defender Day (23 February).
• International Women's Day (8 March).
• The Day of Spring and Labour (1 May).
• Victory Day (9 May).
• Day of Russia (12 June).
• People's Unity Day (4 November).

Time zones [ edit ]

As of 2021, Russia spans eleven time zones , and Daylight Saving Time is not used. Formerly the country has experimented with a smaller number of time zones and with DST.

• Kaliningrad Time (UTC+2): Kaliningrad Oblast
• Moscow Time (UTC+3): Central Russia , Chernozemye , Northwestern Russia , Southern Russia , Volga Region (except Astrakhan Oblast , Samara Oblast , Saratov Oblast , Udmurtia , and Ulyanovsk Oblast ).
• Samara Time (UTC+4): Astrakhan Oblast , Samara Oblast , Saratov Oblast , Udmurtia , and Ulyanovsk Oblast .
• Yekaterinburg Time (UTC+5): The Urals
• Omsk Time (UTC+6): Omsk Oblast
• Krasnoyarsk Time (UTC+7): Altai Krai , Altai Republic , Kemerovo Oblast , Khakassia , Krasnoyarsk Krai , Novosibirsk Oblast and Tomsk Oblast and Tuva
• Irkutsk Time (UTC+8): Eastern Siberia , except Tuva and Zabaykalsky Krai
• Yakutsk Time (UTC+9): Western Yakutia , Amur Oblast , Zabaykalsky Krai .
• Vladivostok Time (UTC+10): Jewish Autonomous Oblast , Khabarovsk Krai , Primorsky Krai , Sakhalin , central Yakutia
• Srednekolymsk Time (UTC+11): eastern Yakutia , Magadan Oblast , Kuril Islands , Sakhalin
• Kamchatka Time (UTC+12): Chukotka , Kamchatka

Get in [ edit ]

Russia has exceptionally onerous visa requirements. In most cases, you have to solicit a notarised letter of invitation from a Russian citizen or organisation before you can apply for a visa. Some parts of the country ― for example, Chukotka ― are closed to foreigners unless they acquire special permits from the government.

Visas [ edit ]

Visa-free travel [ edit ].

The citizens of the following countries do not need a visa:

Unlimited period

• Belarus , South Ossetia
• Abkhazia , Argentina , Armenia , Azerbaijan , Bolivia , Brazil , Chile , Colombia , Costa Rica , Ecuador , El Salvador , Fiji , Georgia , Grenada , Guatemala , Guyana , Honduras , Israel , Kazakhstan , Kyrgyzstan , Moldova , Nicaragua , Panama , Paraguay , Peru , Saint Kitts and Nevis , South Africa , Tajikistan , Ukraine , Uruguay , Uzbekistan , Vanuatu , Venezuela . Also holders of an Estonian alien's passport and a Latvian non-citizen passport
• Mauritius , Samoa , South Korea
• Bosnia and Herzegovina , Cuba , Laos , Macau , Mongolia , Montenegro , North Macedonia , Serbia , Seychelles , Thailand
• Brunei , Hong Kong , Nauru

In addition, holders of a valid APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) except those issued by the United States or Canada may visit Russia without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. However, Russia does not accept the virtual ABTC, and you will need to bring a physical ABTC to avail yourself of this privilege.

Norwegians living within 30 km of the border:

• These individuals are permitted to enter Russia for up to 15 days without a visa provided they have been resident in the border zone for at least 3 years, and do not travel more than 30 km from the border.
• A border certificate, which is valid for multiple entries, must be obtained from the Russian consulate in Kirkenes in advance, so one should see it as a special kind of visa valid for multiple entries during up to 5 years. A similar arrangement exists for Poles living near the Kaliningrad area.

There are a few cases which allow visa-free access :

• Transit through Moscow Sheremetyevo , Moscow Domodedovo or Yekaterinburg Koltsovo airports does not require a transit visa, provided the traveller has a confirmed onward flight, remains in the airport for no more than 24 hours and is not in transit to or from Belarus and Kazakhstan (travel to and from these countries use domestic terminals). Passing through St. Petersburg Pulkovo airport requires a transit (or other) visa . Visas can, in very limited cases, be obtained from consular officers at the airports.
• Cruise passengers, arriving in and leaving from Russia by boat, do not need a visa if they stay in Russia less than 72 hours . The cruises from Finland have been terminated because of the war on Ukraine. Check to what extent you must keep to your group. Do not overstay the visa waiver. If you do overstay, you need to apply for an exit visa, need to pay a fine of at least €500 and will not be able to enter Russia on a visa waiver for the next five years. The visa process in this case may take over a week, during which you need to pay for your stay and food.
• Citizens of China and Iran may visit Russia for up to 15 days without a visa if they are part of an approved group tour with a group size of at least 5 but not more than 50 people.
• Special events: the best known example was the "supporters visa" temporarily available for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. This was a less onerous visa process, but you had to have tickets for matches and booked accommodation, which meant paying top prices.

E-visa [ edit ]

Citizens of Andorra , Austria , Bahrain , Belgium , Bulgaria , Cambodia , China (mainland), Croatia , Cyprus , Czech Republic , Denmark , Estonia , Finland , France , Germany , Greece , Hungary , Iceland , India , Indonesia , Iran , Ireland , Italy , Japan , Kuwait , Latvia , Liechtenstein , Lithuania , Luxembourg , Malaysia , Malta , Mexico , Monaco , Myanmar , Netherlands , North Korea , North Macedonia , Norway , Oman , Philippines , Poland , Portugal , Romania , San Marino , Saudi Arabia , Serbia , Singapore , Slovakia , Slovenia , Spain , Sweden , Switzerland , Taiwan , Turkey , the Vatican City and Vietnam , may obtain an e-visa , which is a single-entry visa that is valid for 60 days from the date of issue, and permits the holder to stay in Russia for up to 16 days. It costs US$40, takes up to 4 calendar days to process, and requires you to enter via specific ports of entry. Unlike for a regular visa, you do not need an invitation to apply for an e-visa. You must print out a copy of your e-visa to show to your airline check-in staff, and the immigration officer when you arrive in Russia.

The visa process [ edit ]

Everyone else needs to apply for a visa at a Russian diplomatic mission . And for those unfortunates, the complexity of the process depends on the class of visa. Thirty-day tourist visas are fairly straightforward to acquire; 90-day (and more) business visas, less so. US citizens are eligible for 3-year multiple-entry business, homestay/private, humanitarian and tourist visas without an invitation (but with proof of booking arrangements). It is best to start the application process well in advance. While expedited processing is available to those who need visas quickly, it can double the application cost.

Arranging a visa basically involves two steps:

• Getting an invitation and
• Applying for the visa.

You may arrive at any time on or after the start date of your visa's validity and may depart at any time on or before its expiry date. Normally, an exit visa is included in transit, private visit/homestay, tourist, and business visas so long as the visa is still valid. Other classes, such as student visas, still require a separate exit visa that can take up to three weeks to process.

Exit and re-entry during the validity period of your visa requires permits. Getting these permits is a Kafkaesque bureaucratic nightmare that is best avoided entirely by getting a double- or multiple-entry visa in the first place.

If you're in Russia and have lost your passport, your sponsor, not your embassy, must apply to the Federal Migration Service to transfer your visa to your replacement passport. Having a copy of your old visa helps with this, but is not sufficient to let you depart. An exception is for U.S. citizens, who only need show proof that they had not exceeded their duration of permitted stay in order to depart (but a visa would be required for a return to Russia).

An unaccompanied minor of Russian nationality needs, apart from the regular requirements for adults, a notarized statements in Russian signed by both parents. This statement can be requested at the Russian embassy or consulate. The child is likely able to get into Russia without this statement, but will most likely be prevented by the Russian border guards from getting out of Russia at the airport!

1. Getting an invitation [ edit ]

The invitation type determines the visa. A tourist invitation gets you a tourist visa, a private visit invitation gets you a private visit visa, etc. Except for tourist visas, invitations are official documents issued by Russian government agencies and must be applied for by the person or organization inviting you.

Any invitation will include the intended dates of travel and the number of entries required (1, 2 or multiple). The dates on the invitation determine the period of the ensuing visa's validity. If in doubt of dates, ensure that the invitation covers a period longer than the intended stay: a tourist visa valid for 7 days costs the same as one valid for 30 days.

In the likely situation you have to buy your invitation, shop around globally: all invitations come from Russia and the company that gets it for you will have a base in Russia. It doesn't make a difference whether its website is based in Germany, the UK, the US or Eswatini. Many embassies and consulates only require a copy of the invitation; however this is not always the case so check with the embassy or consulate beforehand. If the original invitation is required, it will have to be flown from Russia anyway. It is only applying for the visa that generally requires the application to be made in the applicant's homeland.

A tourist invitation (also called reservation confirmation ) is a letter of confirmation of booking and pre-payment of accommodation and travel arrangements in Russia. It is accompanied by a tourist voucher . These two documents can be issued only by government-approved tour operators, hotels, online hotel booking services or Russian travel agencies (several Russian travel agencies have offices outside Russia and are adept at facilitating visa applications). "Government approval" here is not an endorsement of quality; it just means that the company is registered with the Russian government. An ordinary hotel booking is not sufficient to constitute an invitation. Some hotels charge a fee to issue the invitation. Booking one night in a hotel will get you an invitation valid for one day (maybe two) and hence the resulting visa will be valid for a very brief time.

For independent travellers planning to travel around Russia, it is best to get an invitation through an agency. For a fee, these agencies will issue the necessary invitations and vouchers to any passport holder in any country . They do this without actually collecting any accommodation prepayment (and without providing any accommodation, of course). One big player in the online tourist visa support document business is Way to Russia , a company with a US base (invitation US$30). While the strict legality of such is questionable, these companies are well established and do enough not to upset the authorities. Most importantly, their services do not lead to problems for the traveller. However, if your itinerary is confined to only one hotel, then it makes sense to obtain the invitation documents directly from the hotel as the service fee will be similar.

Consider getting a private/homestay visa if you have friends or relatives in Russia (they do not necessarily have to be Russian). They would need to seek an invitation through their local Passport and Visa Division of the Federal Migration Service (formerly OVIR). These invitations tend to take at least a month to process. The inviting individual also becomes responsible for all your activities while in Russia and can be penalized heavily if something were to go wrong. Because of this, personal invitations are usually not available for a fee through the net.

Business invitations are issued by the government. They are generally time-consuming and costly to acquire but they can be quickly arranged for exorbitant fees. Any registered company in Russia can apply for a business invitation. Travel agencies and visa specialists can also get them issued for you. Business visas have longer validity than tourist visas. Being a tourist on a business visa is permitted, so anyone wanting more than a 30-day stay should get one of these. As a rough guide, one UK company can arrange a business invitation for a single 90-day stay for various amounts between ₤38 (for 12 working day processing) and ₤121 (for 2 working day processing).

Invitations for student visas are issued by the educational institution where you plan to study. Most universities and language schools are familiar with the process.

Some Russian local governments have a right to invite foreigners for cultural exchanges by sending a message directly to the Embassy or Consulate of Russia overseas, requesting the visa be issued to a particular foreigner or group of foreigners. Such messages are used instead of an invitation. This is normally the way to go if you are invited by the government.

2. Applying for the visa [ edit ]

Different embassies and consulates have different requirements for visa applications. They may issue visas by mail, they may require application in person, they may accept a copy of the invitation, they may require the original. They may accept payment by card, they may insist on a money order. Check with the embassy or consulate beforehand — in most cases it will be on their website. Holders of U.S., Canadian, and British passports typically have to complete a longer application. Getting a Russian visa issued away from your country of nationality or one you have a residence permit valid for at least three months can be tricky. This can ruin plans for east-to-west trans-Siberian trippers. In Asia, success (no means guaranteed) is most likely to be found in Hong Kong and Phnom Penh (if necessary, temporary Cambodian residence is simple to buy and only costs about US$100).

Visa service companies, for a fee, will double-check your application and invitation, go to the embassy for you, and return your passport to you. This service is nothing that you cannot do yourself (unlike arranging the invitation) but it can save time and frustration.

A single entry, 30-day tourist visa for citizens of EU-Schengen countries costs €35 and takes three working days for standard processing (€70 gets express service for next day collection). For UK citizens the price is ₤50 and processing takes 5 working days not 3 (express service is next day and costs £100). For citizens of the USA the price is US$160 with standard processing being at least 4 working days (express service is US$250 and stated to be 3 working days).

In some countries which have a busy trade in Russian visas (eg, UK and USA), the visa processing has been outsourced to private companies. These companies levy a further unavoidable application fee on top of the visa fees stated above. For applications made in the UK (by a citizen of any country) the application fee is ₤26.40 for standard service and ₤33.60 for express service. For applications made in the USA, the application fee is US$30.

An additional complication for UK citizens is the requirement to personally attend one of the visa application centres in London, Edinburgh or Manchester to have biometric data, that is fingerprints, taken.

The total cost of getting a visa usually has three parts: invitation fee, visa fee and application fee. If you're lucky, one or more of these may be zero but be prepared to be hit by all three. Take as an example a UK citizen applying for a 30-day, single entry tourist visa with standard processing in the UK (not the cheapest example and not the most expensive): invitation bought through an agency: ₤15, visa fee: ₤50, application fee: ₤26.40-91.40 .

Usually, tourist, homestay, and transit visas can allow one or two entries. Tourist and homestay visas have a maximum validity of 30 days. Transit visas are typically for one to three days for air travel and up to ten days for overland journeys. Business and other visa categories can be issued for one, two or multiple entries.

Any business visa can permit a maximum stay in any one visit of up to 90 days. However, a business visa generally only permits a total stay of 90 days in Russia in a 180-day period, regardless of how long it is valid for (whether it be 3, 6, or 12 months). If you stay in Russia for 90 days, you have to leave and your visa will not permit you to return for another 90 days. This means (give or take - a year isn't 360 days) that a six-month visa permits as long a total time in Russia as a three month visa!

Once you have your visa, check all the dates and information as it's much easier to correct mistakes before you travel than after you arrive!

Arrival and customs [ edit ]

On arriving in Russia, you'll have to fill out a landing card (usually filled out automatically by an immigration officer). As in most places, one half is surrendered on entry and the other portion should remain with your passport until you leave Russia. It is usually printed in both Russian and English though other languages may be available. If you lose it, then upon leaving Russia, you will be charged a nominal fine, and your departure may be delayed by an hour or two for the formalities.

Usually, you will be permitted to enter and remain in Russia for the term of your visa but it's up to the immigration officer to decide and they may decide otherwise, though this is unlikely.

Those who enter Russia with valuable electronic items or musical instruments (especially violins that look antique and expensive), antiques, large amounts of currency, or other such items are required to declare them on the customs entry card and must insist on having the card stamped by a customs officer upon arrival. Even if the customs officer claims that it is not necessary to declare such items, insist on a stamp on your declaration. Having this stamp may prevent considerable hassle (fines, confiscation) upon departure from Russia should the customs agent at departure decide that an item should have been declared upon entry.

Registration [ edit ]

Upon arrival to Russia and then subsequently upon arriving in any new city, you must be registered within 7 business days of arriving. This law is a relic from the Soviet days of controlled internal migration. Today, even Russians are supposed to register if they move cities. The official line is that these expensive pieces of paper with blue stamps help control illegal immigration from the poorer countries on Russia's southern borders in Central Asia , the Caucasus , China and even North Korea .

Hotels that are authorised to accept foreigners will make a copy of your passport and visa and register you. If you are staying in a private residence, your host is responsible for registering you, and will need a copy of your passport and visa to do that.

Overstaying a visa [ edit ]

If you overstay, even by a few minutes, you will likely be prohibited from leaving until you obtain a valid exit visa. You may be able to obtain a visa extension from the consular officer at an airport against the payment of a fine if you overstayed for fewer than three days, but this is not guaranteed. Generally, though, obtaining an extension requires an intervention by your sponsor, a payment of a fine, and a wait of up to three weeks.

Be careful if your flight leaves after midnight and be aware of the time at which the train crosses the border. Border guards will not let you depart if you're leaving even 10 min after your visa expires!

If your overstay was due to reasons such as medical problems, the Federal Migration Service may instead issue a Home Return Certificate rather than an exit visa which is valid to depart Russia within ten days of issue.

Europe [ edit ]

Belarus , Moldova and Ukraine are very well connected to Russia with many trains daily from cities throughout each country. Helsinki in Finland has had high speed trains daily to St Petersburg and one overnight train to Moscow. Riga in Latvia, Vilnius in Lithuania and Tallinn in Estonia each has at least one overnight or daytime train to Moscow and St Petersburg.

Kaliningrad has a short summer-only train connection to Gdynia and Gdańsk in Poland. The trains from Kaliningrad to Moscow and St Petersburg pass through Vilnius in the afternoon.

Beyond Russia's immediate neighbours and former Soviet dominions, direct trains connect Moscow with Austria , Bulgaria , Croatia , Czech Republic , France , Germany , Hungary , Italy , Monaco , Montenegro , Netherlands , Poland , Romania , Serbia , Slovakia , and Switzerland . Most trains from Central Europe to Moscow pass through Belarus, for which westerners need a transit or tourist visa, even if they're visa-exempt for Russia. The Belarus visa needs to be double-entry to return the same way. Although there are often rumours about westerners being blocked and turned off the train at the Belarus-Russia border, this rail route (as of summer 2018) has for some years been trouble-free, and alternative routes via Ukraine or Scandinavia add more bother than they save. It's the road route across that border where troubles sometimes occur.

Western Europe has a different track gauge from Russia, Finland and the CIS so bogies must be exchanged when the train crosses into the ex-Soviet countries (usually Ukraine or Belarus ). This adds a couple of hours to the long wait already encountered for immigration. You can stay on the train as the wheels are being changed so it won't disrupt your sleep too much.

Asia [ edit ]

Moscow is connected to all the former Soviet Central Asian countries (except Turkmenistan ) – Kazakhstan , Kyrgyzstan , Tajikistan and Uzbekistan – at least 2–3 times per week. Journeys take 4 or 5 days. For the Caucasus , there is a service from Moscow to Baku in Azerbaijan (3 days), but the Azerbaijan-Russia border is only open to CIS passport holders. There is also a service from Moscow via Sochi to Sukhumi in the disputed territory of Abkhazia . The Trans-Siberian Railway spans the entire country and connects with Chinese cities such as Beijing and Harbin , as well as Ulaanbaatar in Mongolia . There is a service at least twice a month from Moscow to Pyongyang in North Korea , which is nowadays open to westerners with the correct paperwork. Its coaches attached to the Rossiya Moscow– Vladivostok train that are detached at Ussuriysk for the 36 hour onward haul into and across North Korea .

By car [ edit ]

You can travel to Russia by car, but the driving experience there does differ from what you'd expect in most western countries; see get around below for details. Also, crossing the border by car is a peculiar entertainment.

If coming from the EU, check the current situation at your border crossing; the border to Finland has been closed most of the time since the autumn, as of February 2024. Also, your insurance may be invalid in Russia.

By bus [ edit ]

A few bus companies, most notably Eurolines , Ecolines and Lux Express , operate international coach services from a number of destinations to Moscow and Saint Petersburg . Tallinn , Helsinki , Riga , Vilnius , Warsaw and Berlin have regular services to Russia.

By boat [ edit ]

Ferry services operate in the summer between Sochi and Turkey's Trabzon . In Vladivostok there is a scheduled roll-on, roll-off ferry to Busan and numerous lines to the different Japanese ports, however they are mostly oriented to the used Japanese car imports and less to tourism, there is also a weekly service in summer between Korsakov on Sakhalin and Wakkanai on the Japanese island Hokkaido . Cruise ships are also call to Russian ports frequently. There is a boat connection from Lappeenranta , Finland to Vyborg . There is now daily (overnight) service between Helsinki and St. Petersburg on St. Peter Line that does not require a visa for stays less than 3 days. If you join a cruise tour of St. Petersburg, then you don't need a Russian visa but you have to stay with the tour. See Russia#Visa free entry by ship .

By bicycle [ edit ]

There are two Eurovelo international cycling routes that pass through Russia: EV2 ( Capitals Route ) from Ireland to Moscow and EV10 ( Baltic Sea Cycle Route/Hansa circuit) interconnecting Saint-Petersburg with Estonia and Finland.

By helicopter [ edit ]

In some northern regions, there are regular helicopter flights to distant villages with reasonable prices.

By air taxi [ edit ]

In some northern regions, there are regular air taxi flights to distant villages with reasonable prices.

By thumb [ edit ]

Russia has a very lively hitchhiking culture, with many hitchhiking clubs, there is even an Academy of Hitchhiking. There are many competitions. Despite horror stories about bad things happening in Russia, it is relatively safe to hitchhike, especially in the countryside. In some regions Russians expect a little bit of money for a ride.

See [ edit ]

Historical attractions [ edit ].

Russia's history is the number one reason why tourists come to this country, following the draw of its fascinating, sometimes surreal, oftentimes brutal, and always consequential national saga.

Early history [ edit ]

Derbent , in the Caucasian Republic of Dagestan , is Russia's most ancient city , dating back 5,000 years. Home to the legendary Gates of Alexander, the walled fortress-city, alternately controlled by Caucasian Albania, Persian empires, and the Mongols (until its eighteenth century conquest by the Russian Empire) was for 1500 years the key to controlling trade between Western Russia and the Middle East. Other ancient peoples of Russia left less evidence of their civilization, but you can find traces of the Kurgan people of the Urals , in particular the ruined pagan shrines and burial mounds around the old capital of Tobolsk and throughout the Republic of Khakassia .

Of early Russia' s city states, one of the best preserved and most interesting is Staraya Ladoga , regarded as the nation's first capital, established by the Viking Rurik, to whom the first line of Tsars traced their lineage. Novgorod , founded in 859, was the most important city of Kievan Rus in modern Russia (with Kiev being the capital of modern-day Ukraine ), and home to Russia's first kremlin.

Early Medieval Russia saw two major civilizations, that of the independent Novgorod Republic and the Mongol Empire, which dominated the Russian principalities of former Vladimir-Suzdal (whose initial capital of Vladimir retains an excellent collection of twelfth century monuments and kremlin) and Kievan Rus. While the Mongols left mostly devastation of historical sites in their wake, the wealthy trading nation to the north developed grand cities at the capital of Novgorod, as well as Staraya Ladoga, Pskov , and Oreshek (modern day Shlisselburg ), all of which have extant medieval kremlins and a multitude of beautiful early Russian Orthodox churches filled with medieval ecclesiastical frescoes.

As Mongol power waned, the Grand Duchy of Moscow rose to power, and particularly under the later reign of Ivan the Terrible, consolidated power in all of Western Russia, including the conquest of the Kazan Khanate (and establishing another grand citadel there) and concentrated power in Moscow , building its kremlin, St Basil's Cathedral, and several other of Russia's best known historical sites. The cities of the Golden Ring surrounding Moscow likewise saw significant construction during this period. A really neat off-the-beaten-path destination also rose to prominence in the extreme north of the country—the Solovetsky Monastery -fortress on the islands of the White Sea, which served as a bulwark against Swedish naval incursions.

Imperial history [ edit ]

Ivan the Terrible's reign ended in tragedy, the Time of Troubles, which only saw destruction and ruin, and you will find little evidence of civilizational development until the establishment of the Romanov Dynasty in the early seventeenth century. Peter the Great, after having consolidated power, began the construction of his entirely new city of Saint Petersburg on the Gulf of Finland, the Window to the West . Saint Petersburg from its foundation through the neoclassical period became one of the world's most magically beautiful cities, and the list of must-see attractions is far too long to be discussed here. The surrounding summer palaces at Peterhof , Pavlovsk , and Pushkin are also unbelievably opulent attractions.

The Russian Revolution was one of the twentieth century's defining moments, and history buffs will find much to see in Saint Petersburg. The two best known sites are found at the Winter Palace, which the communists stormed to depose Tsar Nicolas II, and the beautiful Peter and Paul Fortress on the Neva River, which housed numerous revolutionary luminaries in its cold, hopeless prison. For those interested in the grisly end of the Romanov family of Nicholas II, perhaps inspired by the story of Anastasia, look no further than the Church on the Blood in Yekaterinburg , built on the spot of his family's execution. Moscow , on the other hand, has the most famous monument from the revolutionary period—Lenin's himself, with his embalmed body on display in Red Square (against his wishes).

Soviet history [ edit ]

The Soviet Era saw a drastic change in Russian history, and the development of a virtually brand new civilization. Mass industrialization programs came with a new aesthetic ethos which emphasized functionality (combined with grandiosity). The enormous constructivist buildings and statues of the twentieth century are often derided as ugly monstrosities, but they are hardly boring (whereas the industrial complexes polluting cities from the Belarusian border to the Pacific are genuine eyesores). A new architectural style known today as Stalinist architecture also developed, and was popular into the 1950s; the grandest of these buildings are seven skyscrapers in Moscow known as the Seven Sisters .

Both World War II and Stalin's reign of terror made their presence felt greatly upon Russia's cultural heritage. The bombings involved in the former virtually wiped out anything of historical interest in Russia's extreme west (the Chernozemye region) and damaged much more throughout European Russia. It did, however, lead to the construction of monuments to the war throughout the entire country. For military buffs, a visit to Mamaev Kurgan, the museum complex at Volgograd (former Stalingrad) is an excellent destination. Kursk , for its enormous tank battle, and Saint Petersburg , site of the Siege of Leningrad, make interesting destinations.

Maybe the saddest of the Soviet legacies is the network of prison camps known as the Gulag Archipelago . The term Archipelago really does not capture the scope of suffering across 10,000 kilometers of cold steppe. Perhaps the most interesting sites for those interested in this legacy are on the Solovetsky Islands in the White Sea, and the devastatingly bleak Kolyma gulag system of Magadan Oblast . If you were hoping to see where Alexandr Solzhenitsyn was imprisoned, you'll have to travel beyond the Russian borders to Ekibastuz in Kazakhstan .

Cultural sights [ edit ]

Russia has several of the world's greatest museums , particularly in the field of the visual arts . The Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg is the true star, with an enormous collection amassed first by the wealthy tsars (particularly by its founder, Catherine the Great) and later by the Soviets and the Red Army (which seized enormous treasure from the Nazis, who in turn had seized their bounty from their wars around the globe). Equally impressive is the edifice housing the collection on display, the magnificent Winter Palace of the Romanov Dynasty. Saint Petersburg's often overlooked Russian Museum should also be a priority, as it has the country's second best collection of purely Russian art, from icons of the tenth century on through the modern movements, in all of which revolutionary Russia led the charge ahead of the rest of the world. Moscow 's art museums, only slightly less well known, include the Tretyakov Gallery (the premiere collection of Russian art) and the Pushkin Museum of Western Art.

Other museum exhibitions certainly worth seeking out are the collections of antiquities in Saint Petersburg and Moscow, particularly at the Hermitage Museum, and the Armory in the Moscow Kremlin. For military buffs, Russian military museums are often fantastic, truly best-in-the-world, regardless of whether you are at one of the main ones in the Moscow—the Central Armed Forces Museum, Kubinka Tank Museum, Central Air Force Museum, Museum of the Great Patriotic War (WWII), or way off in the provinces. The other category in which Russian museums outshine the rest of the world would be within the literary and musical spheres. Nary a town visited, if only for a day, by Alexander Pushkin is without some small museum dedicated to his life and works. The best of the big city museums include the Bulgakov Museum in Moscow and the Anna Akhmatova, Pushkin, and Dostoevsky museums in Saint Petersburg. Great adventures await in quieter parts of the country, at Dostoevsky's summer house in Staraya Russa , Tolstoy's "inaccessible literary stronghold" at Yasnaya Polyana , Chekhov's country estate at Melikhovo , Tchaikovsky's house in Klin or remote hometown of Votkinsk in Udmurtia , Rakhmaninov's summer home in Ivanovka , Pushkin's estate at Pushkinskie Gory , or Turgenev's country estate at Spasskoe-Lutovinovo near Mtsensk . The best museums are in the countryside. For classical music lovers, the apartment museums of various nineteenth and century composers in Saint Petersburg are worth more than just nostalgic wanderings—they often have small performances by incredible musicians.

All tourists in Russia find themselves looking at a lot of churches. Ecclesiastical architecture is a significant source of pride among Russians, and the onion dome is without question a preeminent national symbol. The twentieth century, sadly, saw cultural vandalism in the destruction of said architecture on an unprecedented scale. But the immense number of beautiful old monasteries and churches ensured that an enormous collection remains. The best known, as usual, are in Saint Petersburg and Moscow , in particular the old baroque Church on the Spilled Blood, Alexander Nevsky Lavra, and the monumental Kazan and Saint Isaac's Cathedrals in the former, and Saint Basil's Cathedral and the massive Church of the Annunciation in the latter. The spiritual home of the Russian Orthodox Church is to be found at the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius in Sergiev Posad on the Golden Ring circuit (lavra is the designation given to the most important monasteries, of which there are only two in the country), although the physical headquarters of the Church is at Danilov Monastery in Moscow. Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery in Vologda Oblast is often considered Russia's second most important (and is a neat way to get off the beaten track). Other particularly famous churches and monasteries are to be found at Saint Sophia's Cathedral in Novgorod , the Cathedral of the Assumption in Vladimir , the fascinating Old Cathedral of Königsberg (home to Immanuel Kant's tomb) in Kaliningrad , Novodevichy Convent in Moscow, Optina Putsin (the basis for Father Zossima's monastery in The Brothers Karamazov ), and Volokolamsk Monastery in West Moscow Oblast . Kizhi Pogost on Lake Onega and Valaam Monastery on Lake Ladoga are also popular sites, especially with those cruising between Saint Petersburg and Moscow.

Ecclesiastical architecture does not, however, end with the Russian Orthodox Church — Russia also has a wealth of Islamic and Buddhist architecture. The nation's most important mosques are the Qolşärif Mosque in Kazan , the Blue Mosque in Saint Petersburg and the Heart of Chechnya in Grozny (the largest mosque in Europe). Notably absent from that list is the Moscow Cathedral Mosque, which was considered the principal mosque in the country, before it was demolished in 2011 amid much controversy. Russia's most prominent Buddhist temples are in both Kalmykia , Europe's lone Buddhist region, and the areas closer to Mongolia, especially around Ulan Ude in Buryatia and Kyzyl , Tuva .

Natural attractions [ edit ]

While the distances are great between them, Russia's natural wonders are impressive and worth seeking out for nature lovers. Most of the country is rich in Eurasian wildlife . The best known destinations are far to the east in Siberia, with Lake Baikal known as its "jewel." At the extreme eastern end of Russia, nearly all the way to Japan and Alaska, is wild Kamchatka , where you will find the Valley of the Geisers, lakes of acid, volcanoes, and grizzlies galore.

Other highlights of the Far East include the idyllic (if kind of cold) Kuril Islands to the south of Kamchatka, whale watching off the coast of arctic Wrangel Island , the remote Sikhote-Alin mountain range , home to the Amur Tiger, and beautiful Sakhalin . The nature reserves throughout these parts are spectacular as well, but all will require permits in advance and specialized tours.

The northern half of Russia stretching thousands of miles from the Komi Republic through Kamchatka is basically empty wilderness, mostly mountainous, and always beautiful. Getting to these areas is problematic, as most are not served by any roads, infrastructure, or really anything else. Russia's great north-south rivers are the main arteries for anyone moving through the area: the Pechora, Ob, Yenisey, Lena, and Kolyma. Beyond that, expect to be in canoes, helicopters, and military issue jeeps will be the only way of getting around, and you'll likely want to go with a guide.

Russia's other mountainous territory is in its extreme south, in the Northern Caucasus . There you will find Europe's tallest mountains, which tower in height over the Alps, including mighty Elbrus . Favorite Russian resorts in the area include those at Sochi (which hosted the 2014 Winter Olympic Games) and Dombai . As you go further east in the North Caucasus, the landscapes become ever more dramatic, from the lush forested gorges and snow capped peaks of Chechnya to the stark desert mountains of Dagestan , sloping downwards to the Caspian Sea.

Throughout the entire country, there are over a hundred National Parks and Nature Reserves ( zapovedniki ). The former are open to the public, and considerably more wild and undeveloped than you would find in, say, the United States. The latter are preserved principally for scientific research and are often not possible to visit. Permits are issued for certain reserves, but only through licensed tour operators. If you have the opportunity, though, take it! Some of the most spectacular parks are in the aforementioned Kamchatka, but also in the Urals, particularly in the Altai Mountains ( Altai Republic and Altai Krai ).

Itineraries [ edit ]

• Circum-Baikal Railway is the road on the shore of Baikal Lake.
• Golden Ring — the classic route around ancient cities and towns in Central Russia crowned with golden cupolas of its churches and convents.
• Green Ring of Moscow — Natural Parks and Reserves in Moscow vicinities.
• Silver Ring — the chain of northern towns surrounding Saint Petersburg .
• Trans-Siberian Railway — the endless train ride that needs no introduction.

Do [ edit ]

• Music — Russia has a long musical tradition and is well known for its composers and performers. There is no doubt you will find more orchestra performances the bigger the city. Classical music is played in various theaters, where domestic and guest concerts are scheduled for weeks ahead. Russia has one of the world's strongest classical music traditions, having give rise to numerous great composers such as Tchaikovsky, Mussorgsky, Rachmaninoff and Prokofiev, and even today the Moscow Conservatory is regarded as one of the best in the world. Besides that, the state supports folk ensembles in smaller towns or even villages and singing babushkas gatherings are still a well-established tradition in many areas. In areas traditionally inhabited by ethnic minorities, you may encounter ethnic music of every possible sound, like throat singing in Tuva or rare instruments of Chukotka . Sometimes only specialists can distinguish the Cossack songs of the Urals from the Cossack songs of Krasnodar . Professional jazz players meet at Jazz over Volga festival in Yaroslavl . Walking along the main street on a Sunday will definitely enable you to hear guitar, saxophone, harmonium or flute in any city.
• Military Parade on the Victory Day, which is celebrated on the 9th of May is commonly all-Russia holiday with city squares getting full of uniformed men and military vehicles both dated to Great Patriotic War/WWII and new ones. The Defender of Fatherland Day is a holiday when women in families or at work congratulate their men and co-workers. It happens on 23, February, just a couple of weeks before men return the favor to ladies on International Women's Day , 8 March.
• Dancing . Russian classic ballet is renowned in the world and some national troops exist even in such remote areas like Dagestan or Yakutia . The two most renowned ballet companies in Russia, which are both considered to be among the best in the world, are the Bolshoi Ballet in Moscow and the Mariinsky Ballet in St Petersburg. Lezginka is a vibrant folk dance, always performed at big Caucasian events. If you are interested in folk style then watching a concert of Igor Moiseyev Ensemble alive is simply a must. Out of big cities you may easily find Irish dance, belly and Ball clubs, not to mention hip-hop and all.
• Cinema festivals . The major movie event in Russia is Moscow International Film Festival held at the end of June during 10 days and boasting first-class stars from all over the world. Kinotavr [dead link] of Sochi , Moscow's Festival of Latin America [dead link] and international film festival Zerkalo , named after Andrei Tarkovsky, in Ivanovo are also of interest for film fans.
• Watch sports: - Ice hockey is the leading sport. 23 teams contest the KHL (Kontinental Hockey League), with four based in Moscow and one in St Petersburg; there are also teams from Helsinki, Riga, Minsk and Beijing.
• Circuses . Russia prides in the enjoyment of world class one-ring circuses. Combined traditions include clowning, juggling, acrobatics, contortion and animal acts. The Great Moscow State Circus, for example, holds everyday circus performances during afternoon and evening.

Outdoor life [ edit ]

The association between Russia and its two biggest metropolises, Moscow and St Petersburg, is strong in the minds of tourists, but given its vast expanses and low population density, Russia is a nature lover's paradise as well. Russia has a network of exceptional natural areas, comprising 35 National Parks and 100 Nature Reserves ( zapovednik ) covering a total land mass larger than Germany . List of Russian Nature Reserves (in Russian) one can find here

Some Russian Nature Reserves on the internet:

• [dead link] The Great Arctic State Nature Reserve .  
• [dead link] Central Forest State Nature Bioshere Reserve .  
• Ilmen State Reserve .  

Provided your paperwork is in order, you may visit these areas independently. For those wishing to seek guidance, there are travel agencies specializing in ecotourism in Russia such as:

• [dead link] Dersu Uzala: Ecotourism Development Fund , ☏ +7 495 518-5968 , fax : +7 495 692-2053 , [email protected] .  

Tipping [ edit ]

While tipping was traditionally frowned upon in Russia it has been emerging after the fall of socialism. Tipping is not necessary, but expected. A tip exceeding 10% would be unusual. Some restaurants may include service into the amount, but that is very rare; if a service charge is included then a tip is not expected. Round up when paying your bill at a restaurant, particularly if it happens to be more or less like 10% above the total, and it may be interpreted as a tip. If the service was particularly bad and you don't want to leave a tip, ask for your change. It is impossible to write-in a tip into restaurant credit-card payment.

Tipping is not considered customary for taxis, in fact, you should negotiate and settle upon your fare before you get in the taxi.

Shopping [ edit ]

In general, Russian-made items are cheap although Russia has become a major player in the luxury goods market, but products imported from the West are often expensive.

Dining etiquette [ edit ]

Generally speaking, Russian table manners follow traditional European norms.

• When having food with hosts, do not get up until you are invited to leave the table. This is not considered polite.
• The hosts might get quite persistent when offering an alcoholic drink. You will often have to be very firm if you want to reject that second (or third, fourth, tenth...) shot. Claiming problems with medicine or pregnancy, or stating that you're driving a car are imperfect options. Simply and grimly stating that you are an alcoholic can do the job too, but will depress your hosts.
• Sometimes you will be urged to take second helpings ad infinitum. If so, take it as a form of respect. Moreover, they really will love you if you keep eating.
• Do not rest your elbows on the table. This is considered rude (especially for kids).
• When a mixed group of people dine together, sometimes the bill can split among the men , and then the women are not expected to pay. This is not always be the case, so it's better to follow the example of your fellow diners.

Tipping in restaurants [ edit ]

Restaurant staff in Russia are not as dependent on tips as in the United States , but tipping is still encouraged, even if it is not common among the locals. A tip of 10% of the total bill, usually paid by rounding up the invoice amount, would be reasonably generous. Don't tip in cafeteria-like settings, where you travel along the counter with a tray and pay at the cash register. Drop a couple of 10-ruble coins (or the older notes) into the tip jar for staff. There is no way to leave a tip on your credit card so keep enough small notes in your wallet to hand to the staff.

Sleep [ edit ]

In most cities, quality hotels are really scarce: most were built in Soviet times decades ago and have been renovated in decor, but rarely in service and attitude. Even for a local, it's quite a problem to find a good hotel without a recommendation from a trusted person. For the same reason, it may be really hard to find a hotel during mass tourist-oriented events like St. Petersburg's anniversary.

Generally chained-brand hotels provide better service than independents.

Hotels in Russia may be quite expensive in metropolises and touristy areas. If you do speak a bit of Russian and are not entirely culture shocked, it is much smarter to seek out and rent a room in a private residence. Most Russians are looking to make extra money and, having space to spare, will rent it out to a tourist gladly. Native Moscovites or residents of Saint Petersburg would rather rent out to tourists than their own countrymen: foreigners are considered more trustworthy and orderly. Expect to pay US$60-70 a night (usually with breakfast prepared by your host), and the accommodations will certainly be very clean and proper if not modern. When it comes to home/family life, Russian culture is very warm and inviting.

Another useful option is short-term apartment rental offered by small companies or individuals. This means that certain flats in regular living buildings are permanently rented out on a daily basis. The flats may differ in their location and quality (from old-fashioned to renovated), but in any case you get a one- or two-room apartment with own kitchen, toilet, and bath. Additionally, the hosts provide bed linen as well as cups, plates, and other kitchen equipment. The apartment rental provides great autonomy and flexibility (e.g., there is no strict check-out time). On the other hand, you do not get certain hotel facilities, such as breakfast, laundry service, etc. The price for the daily apartment rental normally does not exceed the price for the hotel of similar quality, so it is a very useful options, especially in large cities. The negotiations are usually quite official: the host collects the data from your ID, while you get a bill and a rental agreement.

A new phenomenon has been the development of "mini-hotels" in large Russian cities. Such hotels usually (but not necessarily!) provide clean modern rooms with private baths at far lower costs than conventional large hotels, approximately US$60 vs. well over US$150. These small hotels are located within existing apartment buildings and include one, two, or more floors located a story or two above street level. They also often serve breakfast. Saint Petersburg has quite a few with more opening all of the time and some are appearing in Moscow.

Couchsurfing is very popular in Russian cities.

Learn [ edit ]

Education is taken very seriously in Russia, and the country has one of the best mass-education systems in the world. According to data from the OECD, Russia has the highest tertiary education attainment rate in the world.

Moscow State University is Russia's most prestigious university, while the Moscow Conservatory is one of the world's foremost institutions for aspiring classical music performers.

One of the great attractions of education in Russia is the cost, especially when compared to the quality. Degree study tuition can range from US$2,000 to $8,000 per year, with other costs (room & board, books, etc.) ranging from US$1,500 to $5,000 per year, depending on location and spending habits.

The academic year lasts from September 1st to mid June everywhere, with long summer vacations from July 1st to August 31st. The year is divided at "autumn semester"(from 1st September to 25th January) and "spring semester" (from February to June)

Several universities and private schools offer Russian language courses with either individual or group tuition.

Work [ edit ]

It is generally difficult to obtain a work permit, as Russia has a relatively strict immigration policy. However, to get work and residence permits is reasonably easy for citizens of the CIS countries. There are many migrants also from poor areas of China , from North Korea , Vietnam and Laos in Siberia , and migrants from across Russia.

The work ethic in Russia is similar to that in the Western world, with some post-Soviet particularities. The working day normally starts at 08:00 or 09:00 and ends at 17:00 or 18:00 with the lunch break from 12:00 to 13:00 or 12:45. In Moscow and other bigger cities the working time tends to be shifted to an hour later (from 09:00-10:00 to 18:00-20:00). In some offices, being late often results in fines and reprimands. Staying late at work isn't always considered OK, and this part of your work is not normally paid. There is a chance that a foreign worker will be offered with temporary accommodation (e.g. a dorm room), but this is not a common story.

Russian work culture is hierarchical and formal – you are expected to address your superiors formally and properly (e.g. Ivan Mikhailovich , Dmitri Vladimirovich , Anna Nikolayevna , and so on) and be unquestioningly loyal to them. In other words, if your Russian boss asks you to do something, do it. Being a foreigner in a Russian company will, without a doubt, make you stand out.

Money is perhaps the most important motivational factor in the business world; Russians normally expect to be appropriately and fairly compensated for their skills and experience. Therefore, it is advised that you make your Russian subordinates feel valued.

Political unrest [ edit ]

North caucasus [ edit ].

As a tourist, you used to be strongly discouraged to travel to the North Caucasus , as the region suffered from terrorism, crime and extremes of both corruption and lawlessness.

After 2013, the situation has greatly improved and travel in the region is mostly safe, but check the safety of your planned itinerary and activities, and keep yourself updated. Some governments still recommend against travel at least to parts of the region, as the situation is unpredictable.

LGBT travellers [ edit ]

Russia is not a safe destination for LGBT travellers.

Advocacy for LGBT rights is a crime, and anti-LGBT sentiments are widespread. Russians generally believe that LGBT sentiments challenge and threaten traditional family values and beliefs. If you are the victim of anti-LGBT violence, the police may not help you.

In other words, if you are LGBT, you are strongly advised not to travel to Russia. If you do, be very discreet about your sexuality.

Driving conditions [ edit ]

Driving in Russia is chaotic and reckless (hence the viral dashcam videos), and statistics have consistently shown that Russia has one of the highest road fatality rates in the world. Aggressive and impatient driving habits, poorly developed and maintained infrastructure, inadequate training (some Russians have forged licenses), weakly enforced traffic rules and regulations, and the commonness of old cars all contribute to the country's high road fatality rate. Be especially careful when crossing roads, because Russian drivers usually ignore pedestrian crossings.

Russia has a very harsh stance against driving under the influence. The penalty for driving under the influence is two years of imprisonment.

If the GIBDD (Russian Traffic Police) pulls you over for whatever reason, comply. Do not run away from them. If they try to solicit bribes, report the incident to the nearest police station.

Racism [ edit ]

Russia is a multicultural nation, due to historical conquests and immigration from parts of the former USSR and other parts of the world. Racially-motivated violent crimes, once a major issue, have dropped steadily since 2009, and the average traveller is unlikely to face any major problems. Most ethnic Russians are of the view that racism has never existed in Russia, and is exclusively a phenomenon of the West.

People from Central Asia , and the North and South Caucasus , as well as the indigenous ethnic groups of Asian Russia , are often viewed with distrust and contempt, and are often discriminated against by landlords. Similarly, individuals who aren't Russian or not from a Slavic-language speaking country can also be barred from renting homes in certain areas. After a terrorist attack perpetrated by Islamist terrorists in March, there are reports that Tajiks face increased discrimination and hostility.

Interracial couples, particularly those in a relationship with a Russian local, may often attract unwanted stares or curiosity.

Dangerous animals [ edit ]

You may meet packs of aggressive dogs that are strays or on guard duty but not chained or otherwise restrained, especially off the beaten tourist path. Staying calm and holding your bags in front of you may prove sufficient. See the linked article for more advice.

There are bears and other potentially dangerous animals in the wilderness. If you intend to visit national parks or the like, check applicable safety measures.

If you get bitten, there is a risk for rabies ; treat the wound and urgently seek professional care.

Respect [ edit ]

Russians are generally reserved and well-mannered, and tend to be more traditional than other Europeans. This is partly due to the influence of the Russian Orthodox Church, which is a major force in Russian society.

Social etiquette [ edit ]

Smiling is traditionally reserved for friends and close acquaintances. Smiling at someone you don't know could get someone to think you're mocking or making fun of them. Sales assistants and public servants are normally expected to look serious and businesslike.

Although things are gradually changing, Russians, in general, are straightforward . They're quite comfortable with expressing their thoughts clearly, and they prefer to speak to the point. Don't be put off if people deliver brief, terse answers at first — this does not mean that they are uninterested in you.

It is a social expectation to show respect to the elderly and authority figures.

Try to learn a few Russian phrases and words. Even just using the Russian equivalents of 'please' ( pozháluysta ) and 'thank you' ( spasíbo ) will make a noticeable difference.

Despite stereotypes, public drunkenness is frowned upon in Russia.

Women are traditionally treated with chivalry. For women travellers, there is a good possibility that Russian male friends could pay their bills at restaurants, open every door in front of them, offer their hand to help them climb down that little step or help them carry anything heavier than a handbag. Male travellers should understand that Russian women will expect these subtleties.

Russians have a marvellously and intimately quiet way of speaking with one another in public. Try to follow suit.

Sensitive issues [ edit ]

Historical events [ edit ]

Russia has a long history of turbulent events. You should tread carefully when discussing the following subjects:

• Russian Empire — many Russians are proud of its achievements.
• World War II — every Russian family has relatives among the 25–30 million who died. Russians are very proud of the achievements and sacrifices of their soldiers. As in many other European countries, the display of Nazi symbols, or denial of the crimes committed by Nazi Germany (including the Holocaust) is illegal in Russia.
• Soviet Union — Russians are both proud of the achievements of the Soviet era and ashamed of its failings. Mikhail Gorbachev is widely disliked due to his role in the collapse of the USSR.
• The Yeltsin years — many Russians hold Boris Yeltsin, the first president of post-Soviet Russia, responsible for diminishing Russia's position as a major world power, and the 1990s are remembered with pain and anguish.
• Conflict with the North Caucasus — the Chechen wars and the Beslan school siege are still very much open wounds in the national consciousness.

Social issues [ edit ]

• Relations with Russia's ethnic minorities are a sensitive issue that is best avoided. While most ethnic Russians believe that Russia has always embraced cultural diversity and treated its ethnic minorities well, some members of ethnic minorities resent what they see as discrimination, for example in terms of disproportionate military mobilization and war casualties relative to ethnic Russians, and forced cultural assimilation policies first adopted during the time of the Tsars.
• Russians generally do not take too kindly to foreign criticism of their country.

Political issues [ edit ]

Political discourse is incredibly sensitive; many people, especially those who are opposed to Vladimir Putin and the Russian government, have been harassed and targeted for their views.

• The ongoing Russia–Ukraine war is an extremely controversial subject. Many are not comfortable discussing it.
• Vladimir Putin is a highly controversial figure. While his supporters praise him for restoring Russia's status as a great power, many of his critics call him an authoritarian leader who has eroded democratic institutions.
• Many Russians believe that the state-sponsored doping scandal that led to bans on Russian athletes are false allegations.
• The Abkhazia conflict, the Georgian–Ossetian conflict, Russia's relations with Georgia , Russia's relations with the Western world, and the status of ethnic Russians in the Baltics are sensitive issues in some circles.

Religion [ edit ]

Despite having been severely repressed under communism, the Russian Orthodox Church and (in some regions) Sunni Islam have become very influential in Russian politics since the fall of the Soviet Union. The Russian Orthodox Church is the state religion and adhered to by the majority of Russians, though freedom of religion is generally respected, and some Muslim areas such as Chechnya have been granted the right to implement Sharia law. Most Russians are believers and are respectful toward religion but do not very actively practise it.

Russia has a blasphemy law that harshly punishes disrespectful behavior towards religion. In 2017, the law was used to prosecute a 22-year old for playing Pokemon Go in a Russian Orthodox Church. Irreligion is not persecuted, but be careful not to say or do anything that religious people might find offensive.

In 2017, the Supreme Court of Russia banned Jehovah's Witnesses from the country and classified them as extremists.

When visiting churches, it is recommended that you dress modestly. What this means: no flip-flops, sleeveless tops, shorts, short skirts, trainers, bright makeup, or bright clothing. Men are required to take their hats off, and women are required to cover their hair with a shawl or veil before entering a church. Additionally, it's disrespectful to take pictures, record videos, or talk loudly in churches.

When visiting mosques, be sure not to openly wear any symbol of another religion. Otherwise, behave with the same restraint as outlined above.

Be very careful visiting the folk religions' shrines within areas where ethnic minorities live. You never know which kind of behavior would be considered there as irreverent. Even a small, seemingly unassuming grove may be seen by locals as a house of spirits . Most often, this can be encountered in Siberia and the Far East, but similar beliefs may also be shared by some of European Russia's ethnicities who syncretize Orthodox Christianity with traditional beliefs (Mari, Erzya, Moksha, Ossetians, etc.)

Home etiquette [ edit ]

• If you've been invited to a Russian person's home, do not show up empty-handed. It's customary to bring your Russian hosts a gift as a form of respect.
• If you plan to give your Russian host(s) flowers, only give them odd-numbered flowers; even-numbered flowers are usually brought to funerals. Avoid gifting your Russian host(s), especially a woman in a relationship, yellow flowers, as the colour is associated with infidelity in Russia.
• Do not give a baby gift until after the baby is born to a particular family. It is bad luck to do so sooner. Verbal congratulations before a person's birthday is often thought as a bad sign.

• Take off your shoes before entering someone's house.
• If you've been invited to a Russian person's home, dress modestly. This rule may not apply to young people, however.

Other etiquette [ edit ]

• When traveling by train, you would better share your food with others near by, since then you will be viewed as polite. You shouldn't avoid speaking to people on trains: it is common to speak about everything with your train neighbours.
• Do not whistle inside someone's house; Russians believe that whistling inside someone's house will make the owner of the house poor.
• Do not shake hands with someone, kiss someone, greet someone, or give someone something over a threshold; Russians believe that these actions bring bad luck.
• Do not sit at the corner of a table; Russians consider this impolite.

Connect [ edit ]

Most Russian news outlets that don't report the government's views uncritically have been closed down, and many foreign newspapers and broadcasting companies have withdrawn their journalists because of the 2022 laws on "fake news" – ordinary journalism could land them in jail. Getting information on developments in e.g. Russia or Ukraine may thus depend on personal contacts and resources.

Internet [ edit ]

As of 2014, the Russian government is moving to restrict access to public Wi-Fi on the grounds that the Internet is "a CIA project" and laws requiring identity documents from anyone attempting to access the network are needed to fight extremism and terrorism. Often you still simply need a Russian phone number and you can register at free Wi-Fi, especially in train stations or banks. Even Wi-Fi at hotels often require a Russia phone number, if you don't have one hotel staff sometimes accept to do it for you and tell you the SMS code.

Some messaging applications are blocked, but this is easily circumvented by using most free VPN apps, and way less enforced than in China. However, there are fears that Russia will cut off its internet from the global network entirely. If that happens, you have to arrange your own gateways.

Phones [ edit ]

The country code for Russia is 7 .

Russian phone numbers have an area code with three, four or five digits (according to their province), followed by an individual number with, respectively, seven, six, or five digits, always yielding ten digits in total. The three-digit code 800 is used for toll-free calls. Mobile phones always have three-digit "area" codes and seven-digit numbers.

Calls within any one area code may omit the area code (except in Moscow ).

Inter-area code calls within Russia: 8 (wait for the tone) full Russian number including area code .

The international access code for dialling out from Russia is the sequence of 8 (wait for secondary tone and then) 10

International calls to Russia, as always, replace the plus sign (+) in the international phone format with the local international access code for the country you're calling from, followed by Russia's country code of 7 followed by the individual Russian phone number including area code.

Prepaid SIM cards [ edit ]

There are five main mobile operators in Russia: Beeline [dead link] , Megafon [dead link] , MTS [dead link] , Tele2 , and Yota [dead link] .

All carriers offer cheap SIM cards with data plans that are always a better alternative to paying roaming charges. Megafon is considered to have the best coverage but Beeline is considered to be the cheapest. MTS does not charge differently between areas, as other mostly do. Data is very cheap in Russia and you can buy unlimited packages for all Russia.

If you buy a SIM card in a shop, you'll need your passport for identification and it will take around 5 minutes to complete the required paperwork. If you don't speak Russian, you will need to find someone who speaks English. Alternatively, you can buy a SIM card from automated kiosks in metro stations. Calls to landlines from mobile phones are more expensive than calls to other mobile phones, especially those that use the same network. Incoming calls are free. You can add value to your card at the stores of the company you are using or at automated kiosks or online. You can buy a prepaid card for international calls, but online services such as Skype are often cheaper.

If you want to connect your laptop or computer to a data network, you can also buy cheap SIM cards for a USB-modem.

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Introduction

Spreading 5,000 miles from west to east, Russia is the world’s largest country. It shares it land borders with Norway, Finland , Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Belarus, and Ukraine to the west, Georgia and Azerbaijan to the southwest, and Kazakhstan , China , Mongolia , North Korea to the east and much of the south. While geographically mostly in Asia, the bulk of Russia’s population is concentrated in the European part and, culturally, Russia is unmistakably European.

From frozen Siberian lands to volcanic regions and the bustling cities in between, Russia offers more than any tourist can experience in one vacation. For this reason, it is suggested that tourists focus on the country’s two major cities, Moscow and St. Petersburg , which present the highest concentration of popular attractions.

Moscow, Russia’s capital city, is home to prominent landmarks such as Red Square and the iconic St. Basil Cathedral. Also located by Red Square is the Kremlin, a massive walled complex of government buildings and palaces that is home to the Russian president.

St. Petersburg’s main attractions include the Winter Palace, which showcases the wealth and power of Imperial Russia. Housing more than 3 million artifacts and art works from Europe, Asia and Russia, the Heritage Museum is the greatest of its kind in the world.

Outside the cities, the remote and wild Kamchatka Peninsula is popular for its volcanic region, hot springs, geysers and variety of wildlife. Located by Lake Onega, Kizhi Island is a huge open-air museum of historic buildings and artifacts where tourists can learn about traditional Russian peasant life.

Because Russia is a vast country, the rail system is perhaps the best way to get around. Stretching across the entire length of Russia, the Trans-Siberian Railway journey offers a great number of interesting sights and spectacular landscapes.

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One glance at a map of Russia might have you overwhelmed at the sheer size of the terrain; how can a foreign traveler even begin to get a sense of its infinite landscapes? A spin of the globe will render this part of the world one immense blur that dominates its counterparts. But it’s no optical illusion: Russia is by far the largest country in the world, and it takes a place of this grandeur to fit in all the contradictions that make it one unforgettable destination. No one writes off Russia. Whether you’re attracted to its romantic writers, rocky history or rich present (it’s home to more billionaires than anywhere else) this country has the flare to thrill the fussiest of travellers. The iconic capital of Moscow is almost 1,000 years old and has just as many sights to keep travellers’ itineraries tight. From the golden orbs of the Kremlin to the colourful towers of Saint Basil’s Cathedral, the city’s spotless attractions seem as if they were dreamed into fruition by a whimsical architect of the modern day.

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In recent years, I have seen no significant improvement in visa policies. This makes Russia an irrational choice for travelers. The country has become more closed off to the West, and even apolitical Russian citizens will think of the United States as an enemy. I will discuss the issues you should be aware of when planning your trip to the country.

If you are a culture vulture, then you’ll love Russia travel. For adventure lovers, it’s the perfect destination . You can visit Tolstoy’s country estates and hike through the Caucasus, or go mountain climbing in the Altai Republic. You can also take a cruise on Lake Baikal. Regardless of your interests, you’ll find that the country has something for you.

There are many restrictions on travel to Russia. Even if you’re traveling with a multiple-entry visa, you must fill out a new migration card when you enter and exit the country. If you lose it, you’ll be subject to fines, serious delays, and even imprisonment when you return to the country. If you are planning to spend time in Russia, you should plan for some political rallies and demonstrations. You can expect to find demonstrations and political protests in various cities. There are a number of small earthquakes in Russia throughout the year. If you’re visiting a remote region of the country, you should check out the latest information on earthquakes.

In addition to being a fantastic place to visit , you’ll have an experience that will last you a lifetime. There are ancient cities, glittering palaces, swirling spired churches, and idyllic countryside. You can explore artistic treasures, epic train journeys, and vodka-fuelled nightlife in Europe . What’s more, you’ll be able to explore the countless attractions of the country.

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Russia Travel Guide

If you want to get a unique and unforgettable travel experience, consider a trip to Russia. The country is rich with fascinating sites and attractions. Every region of Russia has its own characteristic and charm. For example, pristine nature, historical monuments, and beautiful lakes and rivers will surely leave you spellbound. However, you should be aware of some important rules before traveling to the country. Here are some helpful guidelines: First, don’t use vulgar language. In addition, you should avoid touching the ground with your hands, while riding public transport.

Secondly, you should try to avoid drunk drivers, as well as driving on a shady roads. You should not drive alone at night, and you should avoid picking up hitchhikers. Also, roads in Russia are not very safe, so you should be extra cautious when driving. In addition, you should remember that photography is generally prohibited in some areas, and you should not be loud or talk loudly in public. Therefore, you should take all the necessary precautions and stay alert at all times.

Thirdly, you should try to visit churches and cathedrals in Russia. While each city will have several churches, the most famous ones will probably be the ones that are best-known. They aren’t necessarily the oldest or largest; they are simply the most elaborate in beauty. Moreover, you can visit any of these places for free. However, you must be respectful when speaking inside these buildings. If you have photos of the buildings, don’t bother taking them.

Lastly, make sure to avoid visiting high-risk areas of the country. While Russia doesn’t have dangerous regions, you should avoid traveling to these areas if possible. The two most dangerous regions are Chechnya and Dagestan. As with any country, it’s still important to exercise caution and check with the international government for any warnings. It’s best to avoid these locations if you’re visiting these areas, especially if you’re unsure of the local laws.

While the country is rich with amazing landmarks, you should plan your trip to Russia based on your interests. Baikal is an exceptional lake, which is an ideal location for a relaxing trip. For another reason, you should visit Moscow. The capital city is also home to a number of museums. Visiting the Russian Museum of Natural History is also a must when visiting the country. A tour through this beautiful region will give you a glimpse of the ancient culture and its unique place in the world.

Another reason to travel to Russia is to visit historic places . The country has incredible cathedrals and churches. You can visit some of them and marvel at their beauty. In addition, you can visit the Russian Mardis Gras, which is celebrated on Sunday. During Victory Day, you should also visit the churches. The cathedrals are beautifully decorated. You can also visit other historical places of interest while in Russia. Just be sure to keep your expectations in mind and don’t forget stereotypes.

Best Places to Visit in Russia

One of the Best Places to Visit in Russia is Vladivostok, a beautiful city in eastern Russia. Once the site of the Minny Gorodok military base, Vladivostok is now one of the world’s largest ports. This city has a rich cultural heritage and is full of museums and parks. If you have the chance, you should take a tour of the monastery.

While most people travel to Moscow, the capital of Russia, it’s well worth spending a day in Vladivostok. This ancient city is situated halfway between the Altai Mountains and the sea. While you’re there, don’t miss out on the amazing hiking and camping experiences in the Sayan Mountains. And don’t forget to check out the Museum of Military History, which has fascinating exhibits about the country’s military history.

For those who love nature, there’s nothing like Lake Baikal, located in the North West of Russia near the border with Finland. The water in Baikal is icy cold in summer, but you can hike through its lush green forests. There are also several hiking paths and camping grounds, which you can explore during the summer months. Despite the cold waters, you’ll have an unforgettable experience. Once you’ve conquered the fear of cold water, you’ll be ready to experience the country’s traditional culture and traditions.

If you’re traveling solo , there are a lot of attractions in Russia to see. The country’s most famous attractions are St. Basil’s Cathedral and the National History Museum. Other popular attractions include the Kremlin, where the Kremlin is located. The Kremlin contains the Armoury. Those who are interested in history and culture should try to take a river cruise of the city.

St. Petersburg has a rich history. It was originally named Nyens in 1611, but it gradually grew in size and prestige and was renamed several times. Tsar Peter the Great established the city in 1703, and it is now a federal city. With a rich culture and a rich history, St. Petersburg is one of the best places to visit in Russia. The beautiful landscapes and historical monuments make it an unforgettable trip.

There are plenty of places to visit in Russia. The largest city is Moscow. The second biggest town is Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, a picturesque seaside town that is a must-see in the country. Visiting these towns is a great way to see the country’s natural beauty. A number of other small towns are also worth the trip. The Golden Ring is an area in northeastern Russia that is renowned for its wonderful food and quaint cottages.

HOTELS in Russia – The Best Choices for Families, Couples, and Honeymoons

When it comes to luxury travel, the best options in Russia include high-quality international chains, boutique hotels , and hostels. Whether you’re staying in Moscow, St. Petersburg, or the Russian Far East, there are plenty of options for all tastes. The best hotels are centrally located, close to the city’s main attractions. However, if you’d like to stay in the heart of the action, you’ll need to reserve your room well in advance.

There are a variety of hotel options in Russia, and not all of them are high-end. While there are a few high-end chains in Moscow, the majority of rooms are expensive and cater primarily to international travelers. There are a few mid-range hotels in Moscow, but many are run by independent operators and are very cheap. In addition, there are some budget-friendly options, including apartments in downtown Moscow. You can also choose to stay at a hostel, guesthouse, or apartment building.

Those traveling on a budget should consider a Russian hostel or Airbnb. These hostels and apartments offer affordable accommodations, great views of the city, and commendable service. Regardless of where you stay, you’ll be sure to have a relaxing and enjoyable stay in Russia. If you’re planning to stay in Moscow, you should check out NashOtel, an excellent budget hotel in Russia. The NashOtel is also a good option for those traveling on a tight budget.

A small hotel in Moscow is a good choice for a budget-conscious traveler. A four-star hotel may be more suitable for business travelers. A luxury hotel in Moscow can be an excellent choice if you don’t have much money to spend. Depending on your budget, a Russian boutique hotel is a great option. But if you want to stay close to the city center, look for 3-5 star accommodation.

In Russia, there are luxury hotels and cheap hotels. The cost of a luxury hotel in Moscow is typically lower than the cost of a comparable European hotel. But, if you’re looking for a romantic holiday, Saint-Petersburg is an ideal destination for couples. While it may be costly, it’s worth the trip. A Russian honeymoon in a luxurious hotel in St. Petersburg can be a great way to celebrate a new marriage.

Cheap Flights to Russia

Flights to Russia are available from many different airlines. In addition to their great range of cheap tickets, flights to Russia can also be booked easily through travel agencies. Moreover, these international flights can be booked well in advance. You can also find information on the various travel agencies in the country. In addition to that, you can also find out about the different airlines operating in the country. There are also many different airlines that offer discounted rates on their airfares.

The most popular option for flights to Russia is Skyscanner. It is a free travel service that searches 600 airlines and the top travel agents to find the cheapest flights to Russia . You can compare the prices of different airlines and book your tickets right away. This tool will allow you to save more than 80% on your flight. Once you have chosen a price, you can also book directly on the airline’s website. If you want to get cheap flights to Moscow, you can try Russian Airlines.

When searching for cheap flights to Russia , you can make use of various travel resources to help you make the right decision. For example, TravelDescribe will search top travel agents and find you the best deals on your flights to Russia. The site also provides helpful travel tips , detailed images, and customizable suggestions so that you can find the cheapest flight to Russia. By using this service, you can enjoy great deals on cheap Russian flights and book them easily online.

Using a travel comparison site such as Orbitz can help you save time and money on flights to Russia. It allows you to search for the best prices on more than 600 airlines. In addition to that, you can book flights directly with the airline. The best way to find cheap flights to Moscow is by making use of a travel broker. They have access to a huge range of flight booking resources and can provide you with a great deal on a flight to Russia.

You can check for cheap flights to Moscow and other cities. These services can also help you choose the most suitable days to travel to Russia and find the cheapest flight. In addition, you can also get special discounts on the best days to travel to Russia. If you are traveling for business purposes, you can use a hotel with a convenient location. In order to save money on airfares, you can make use of TravelDescribe.

When planning a trip to Russia, you can make use of flight promo codes available on CheapOair.com. In addition, you can also sign up for the newsletter for frequent updates on travel deals . To take advantage of these offers, you must book your flight to Russia in advance. As a rule, flights to the country from the US and Canada are more expensive during the summer. However, you can use the cheap flights to Russia to save money on airfare to Moscow.

Best Tips For Traveling to Russia

When you visit Russia, you’ll want to know how to deal with the Russian police. There are special laws for tourists and a lot of traffic jams, so make sure to learn a few basic words and phrases. Be aware that 99.9% of signs will be written in Cyrillic, so you should keep your passport handy. Unless you’re staying in a luxury hotel, the Russian Ruble is the national currency. US dollars are more commonly accepted, but US citizens may need to carry Euros while visiting the country’s major attractions.

Always make sure to carry a few extra dollars with you when you’re in Russia. Banknotes are not perfect and can be picked up by pickpockets, so be sure to use a high-quality banknote. It’s best to stay with a group, or at least notify a leader of your tour. This way, you’ll be protected from pickpockets and other thieves.

Remember to take cash when you’re in Russia. The Russians are big on cash, so it’s best to carry enough for your entire trip. It’s also a good idea to exchange local currency for roubles before you go. If you don’t, you’ll end up paying higher fees than you’d have to if you’d just used credit cards. You can also use the money you’ve exchanged for local currency in the country beforehand.

One of the best tips for traveling to Russia is to study the language. Having knowledge of Russian is an advantage, as you can speak the language. Don’t be shy about using a translation app to get by with basic phrases. A Russian dictionary is essential for getting by on a trip. If you’re not a native speaker, learn the language before you go. You’ll be glad you did! You’ll be glad you did.

The first thing to remember about the weather in Russia is the climate. Unlike in the United States , Russia has cold winters and hot summers. Whether you’re visiting Moscow or St. Petersburg, understand the weather to plan the day’s activities. If you are traveling to the capital city, be sure to bring a change of socks and appropriate footwear. The Russians are famous for their hospitality, so don’t be afraid to be polite.

Dress appropriately for the weather. Despite the reputation of Russians, they prefer to pay in cash instead of using credit cards. If you’re in town, you’ll probably want to use a card for public transportation, but many restaurants in the city aren’t set up to accept credit cards. You’ll also want to remember that it is common for Russians to use their local currency rather than the local currency.

The Best Russia Experiences – Things to do in Russia

A small group trip to Russia can give you an authentic Russian experience. These tours often include meals, such as pancakes and gingerbread, and other delicacies that are unique to this country. You may even get to try some traditional Russian dishes like stew or gingerbread. And, if you’re looking for an experience that’s as unique as Russia itself, consider booking a small group excursion to St. Petersburg. Read on to learn more about Russia’s Experiences.

St. Petersburg

If you’re planning a trip to St. Petersburg, Russia, you may be wondering how to experience the local culture. The city has an extensive history that you’ll want to learn about with a local guide. A trip to the market, where you can buy everything from pickled meats to honey, is an enjoyable way to get a taste of local life. You’ll also gain an appreciation for the Russian Orthodox faith.

While there are numerous attractions in St. Petersburg, its architecture is the most prominent. The original baroque and classicism styles remain prominently in the city’s center and Moskovskiy district. Despite this, there are also numerous examples of Stalinist neoclassical architecture that was intended to repress the city’s citizens. The most popular place to view this architectural style is Moskovsky Prospekt, which starts from Moskovskaya metro station.

When planning your visit to the capital of Russia, you’ll find that there are a number of Moscow Experiences that will make your trip memorable. One of the most renowned attractions in Moscow is the Kremlin, a cosmopolitan historic complex that is the home of the president and boasts tsarist treasures in the Armoury. The most symbolic center of Russia is Red Square, home to Lenin’s Mausoleum and the State Historical Museum’s extensive collection. Finally, make sure to visit the onion-shaped domes of St. Basil’s Cathedral, an impressive cathedral located in the center of the city.

If you’d like to learn more about Russian culture, consider enrolling in a Russian language class. In addition to learning about the country’s history and culture, you’ll have the opportunity to speak the Russian language with local residents. These classes are often conducted by an experienced local guide and will include some practice sessions with participants. You’ll also learn about Russian culture and religion while attending a tour of medieval Moscow. You’ll also be able to learn to cook traditional Russian food and drink tea, and you’ll be able to interact with locals during your stay.

The Kremlin

The Kremlin is a historical fortress complex in Moscow, Russia, and it is the principal symbol of the Russian nation. The Kremlin’s history dates back to the foundation of the city in 1147, and its walls were originally made of wood. Italian architects were commissioned to construct the Kremlin’s walls in 1485, and they decided not to tear them down. They instead built over them.

Today, the Kremlin has been used for government meetings and ceremonies, and the buildings within it are a fascinating insight into the history of Russia. The Kremlin complex encompasses more than 65 acres of land and is surrounded by 1.5 miles of defensive walls. It features 20 towers, the tallest of which is the Spasskaya Tower. The Kremlin complex is one of the most well-known symbols of the Russian capital, and the Cathedral of the Dormition is a landmark of the complex with its golden domes and white stone. The Kremlin also includes impressive icons and colorful frescoes.

The arts in Russia are a fascinating mix of traditions. Traditionally Russian art reflects the contrasting traditions of the countryside and urban centers. Artistic expression, such as music and theatre, has been influenced by religion, culture, and history. As the country grew, artistic production was influenced by the changing pace of urban life and the industrial revolution. However, the arts in Russia were not immune from the political and economic turmoil experienced after the 1917 Revolution.

During the Soviet period, Russian music evolved from folk songs to complex symphonic compositions. Russian classical music features a unique blend of lightness, artistic depth, and dramatic character. Great Russian composers regularly performed in world-famous theatres. Likewise, Tchaikovsky’s ballets are instantly recognizable and recognizable. While Russian cinema often mimics Western films, many cult Russian films feature unique styles, storylines, and acting. Soviet cinema won numerous prestigious awards and was widely seen throughout the world.

The Russian language

The Russian language in Russia experiences significant dialect variation. While Russian is an almost uniform language, there are dozens of smaller dialects throughout the country. Many of these dialects display nonstandard features in terms of pronunciation, intonation, vocabulary, grammar, and more. Some dialects are merely remnants of ancient usage; others are completely discarded in favor of standardized language. Despite these differences, Russian remains a useful language for international travel.

As a result, it is not surprising that the Russian language in Russia experiences a high level of linguistic diversity. Among the country’s most widespread languages, Russian is spoken by the vast majority of the population. Its historical roots date back to the Middle Ages when the Russian language was spoken by the people of Kievan Rus, a conglomeration of Eastern Slavic tribes that existed from the late 9th century to the mid-13th century. As a result, Russian is one of the official languages of the UN and is the primary language of many post-Soviet countries.

Travel Restrictions in Russia

If you plan to travel to Russia, you should be aware of the country’s travel restrictions. The security environment is uncertain and the current military conflict is affecting the country’s stability. As a result, you may experience limited transportation options, financial restrictions, and possible shortages of essential products. It is also possible to experience extreme weather conditions.

Russia travel restrictions

Travel to Russia can be challenging due to a variety of regulations and restrictions. Before departing, it is important to have all the correct documents and permissions, including a mandatory health declaration form. This document requires proof of vaccination and other travel-related tests. Travel insurance is also important. You should check with the Russian government for specific requirements, as restrictions and policies can change.

The Russian government is trying to encourage international tourism by implementing several measures. In order to boost the country’s economy, it has suspended flight operations to China and significantly curtailed the number of flights. The government has also restricted the travel of journalists and diplomats from some countries. In addition to this, the country has closed its eastern border with China, affecting airports in Amur, Khabarovsk and Jewish Autonomous Oblasts.

Visiting Russia requires a visa. For people with multiple entries on their passports, this document must be renewed before leaving the country. In addition, Russian visa holders must have a sponsor apply for a visa on their behalf. Visiting Russia without a visa may result in deportation. The validity period for your visa must be at least two months beyond the date you plan to depart.

Russia travel requirements

Before you plan a trip to Russia, you must first understand the country’s travel requirements. For most foreign tourists, a visa is necessary for the country. However, certain groups of people are exempt from these requirements. These include Russian citizens, their families, members of diplomatic missions, and highly qualified specialists. If you are planning to visit Russia, you must learn about the country’s rules and regulations, and pack your travel health kit. You should also know how to behave in case of a security situation.

To enter Russia, you must have a valid migration card. These cards are distributed on flights and at ports of entry. However, some airports may not offer them. In any case, you should keep your migration card and passport safe. Without this, you may be denied entry into the country or be subject to severe delays. It’s also important to register with the authorities as soon as you arrive – preferably at least 72 hours in advance, excluding national holidays and weekends.

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Discovering Russia: A Guide to Safety and Respect

I magine walking through the historic streets of Moscow, admiring the grandeur of the Red Square, or traversing the vast Siberian landscapes. Russia, with its rich history and diverse culture, beckons travelers from around the world. But, like any other destination, it comes with its own set of challenges. How do you ensure you're both safe and respectful during your Russian adventure?

TL;DR: Key Takeaways

• Stay informed about the regions you're visiting and their safety levels.
• Respect local customs and traditions to ensure a harmonious trip.
• Be cautious but don't let fear deter you from exploring this magnificent country.
• Always have a backup plan, especially in unfamiliar territories.
• Engage with locals; they're your best guide to authentic experiences.

Navigating Safety Concerns

According to the Global Peace Index 2021 , Russia ranks 154 out of 163 countries, indicating a somewhat higher level of risk for travelers. This might sound alarming, but it's essential to understand the nuances behind these numbers. While certain regions might pose risks, many parts of Russia are as safe as any other popular tourist destination.

The U.S. Department of State's Level 2 Travel Advisory for Russia emphasizes increased caution due to concerns like terrorism and arbitrary law enforcement. It's always a good idea to stay updated with travel advisories and plan your itinerary accordingly.

Respecting Russian Customs

Chris Grayling, a British politician, once said, "Russia is a beautiful country with a rich history and culture, but it is also a place where you need to be aware of your surroundings and always respect local customs and laws." This sentiment is particularly true for first-time visitors. From simple gestures like greeting elders with respect to understanding religious customs, being aware can make your journey smoother.

For instance, when visiting religious sites, dressing modestly is a sign of respect. In Russia, it's customary for women to cover their heads when entering orthodox churches. Similarly, always wait for an invitation before entering someone's home and remember to remove your shoes.

Engaging with Locals: The Key to Authentic Experiences

One of the best ways to truly understand a country is by interacting with its people. Russians are known for their warmth and hospitality. While language might be a barrier in some parts, a smile is universally understood. Don't hesitate to engage in conversations, ask for directions, or simply share a meal. These interactions often lead to the most memorable travel experiences.

Understanding the Russian Soul

When you step into Russia, you're not just entering a country; you're delving into a rich tapestry of history, culture, and emotion. The Russian soul, or "Russkaya Dusha" as locals call it, is a unique blend of deep sentiment, resilience, and a touch of melancholy. It's this soul that has given the world literary giants like Tolstoy and Dostoevsky, and it's this same spirit that you'll encounter in the streets of Russia, from the bustling avenues of Moscow to the serene landscapes of Siberia.

The Importance of Family and Tradition

Family is paramount in Russian culture. Don't be surprised if a newfound Russian friend invites you over for a family dinner. These gatherings are often filled with laughter, stories, and a lot of food. Traditional dishes like Borscht, Pelmeni, and Blini are not just meals; they're a celebration of Russian heritage. If you're lucky enough to be invited to a Russian home, remember to bring a small gift as a token of appreciation. It's a customary gesture and is sure to earn you extra brownie points!

Language: The Bridge to Hearts

While many Russians, especially the younger generation, speak English, making an effort to learn a few basic Russian phrases can go a long way. Simple words like "Spasibo" (Thank you), "Privet" (Hello), and "Da" (Yes) can make your interactions smoother. Plus, Russians appreciate it when foreigners make an effort to speak their language. It's seen as a sign of respect and can lead to more meaningful connections.

Deborah Green's Insider Tips

Deborah Green shares, "While major cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg are quite cosmopolitan, venturing into the countryside offers a glimpse into the real Russia. But remember, always inform someone about your whereabouts, especially if you're exploring offbeat paths."

She adds, "Public transport is efficient, but having a translation app can be a lifesaver. And yes , always carry a copy of your passport and visa. It's common for officials to check them."

Russia, with its vast landscapes and rich cultural tapestry, offers an unparalleled travel experience. While it's essential to be cautious and informed, it's equally important to embrace the journey with an open heart. After all, every trip is about making memories, learning, and growing.

Is it safe to travel alone in Russia?

Yes, many solo travelers explore Russia without any issues. However, always stay informed, avoid risky areas, especially at night, and keep your belongings secure.

Can I use credit cards everywhere in Russia?

While credit cards are widely accepted in cities, it's advisable to carry some cash when traveling to remote areas.

Are there any specific customs I should be aware of when dining in Russia?

Yes, it's polite to finish all the food on your plate as it's a sign of appreciation for the meal. Also, when toasting, it's customary to look into the eyes of the person you're toasting with.

How should I dress in Russia?

While cities are quite liberal, it's always a good idea to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. In winters, ensure you're adequately layered as temperatures can drop significantly.

Is it okay to photograph everything in Russia?

While capturing memories is essential, always ask for permission when photographing people. Avoid taking pictures of military installations or other sensitive areas.

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U.S. Department of State - Russia Travel Advisory

Russia Beyond - Understanding Russian Customs

Exclusive: Russia tightens officials' travel rules due to fears over secrets, sources say

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• FSB pressing for tighter travel rules, say sources
• Push comes amid Ukraine war, crisis in Russia-West ties
• Rules vary across Russian government departments
• Russia fears officials could get trapped or extradited
• Foreign travel especially tough for state secret holders

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The governor of Russia's western region of Smolensk said on Saturday that a Ukrainian drone hit a fuel depot overnight, setting it on fire, while an attack on the regional centre has been repelled.

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