Russia

Russia: general info for travelers

Russia is the world's largest country in terms of land area, located in northern Eurasia. It shares borders with Norway, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Belarus, Ukraine, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, China and North Korea. Moscow is the capital city and the cultural, political and economic center of the country. Russia has a rich history and culture, with many famous landmarks and tourist destinations such as the Red Square, the Kremlin, St. Petersburg, Lake Baikal, the Hermitage Museum and the Trans-Siberian Railway. Russian cuisine is unique and diverse, featuring dishes such as borscht, stroganoff, blini, caviar and vodka. The climate in Russia varies greatly, with arctic conditions prevailing in the north and subtropical conditions in the south.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Russia, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Russia: places to visit

There are many amazing places to visit in Russia, here are a few popular ones with a brief description: 1. Saint Petersburg: This city, also known as the Venice of the North, is famous for its cultural heritage and stunning architecture. It's home to the Hermitage Museum, the Peterhof Palace, the Church of our Savior on Spilled Blood, and many more attractions.
2. Moscow: The capital city of Russia, Moscow is the hub of political and economic activity in the country. Red Square, the Kremlin, Saint Basil's Cathedral, and the GUM department store are just a few iconic landmarks to see here.
3. Kazan: Located on the Volga River, Kazan is the capital city of the Republic of Tatarstan and is renowned for its mix of Islamic and Orthodox cultures. The city you can see the UNESCO-listed Kazan Kremlin, as well as the Qol Sharif Mosque and the Annunciation Cathedral.
4. Sochi: As the host city for the 2014 Winter Olympics, Sochi has beautiful beaches, stunning mountains, and world-class ski slopes. The city also offers many cultural events and festivals throughout the year.
5. Lake Baikal: The world's largest freshwater lake, Baikal is known for its crystal-clear water and stunning scenery. Visitors can take boat trips, hike around the lake, or even swim in its icy waters. 6. Kamchatka: Known for its untouched wilderness and active volcanoes, Kamchatka is a destination for adventure seekers. Visitors can explore hot springs, glaciers, and national parks while enjoying the rugged and unique landscape.
These are just a few destinations to visit in Russia. It's a vast country with many other charming towns, sights and natural landscapes to experience.
There is more to see and do in Russia: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Russia: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Russia, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Russia is a country with diverse climates, so the weather can vary depending on the region. In general, summer (June-August) is the warmest time, with temperatures ranging from 20-30°C in most regions. This is a good time to visit places like Moscow, St. Petersburg, and the countryside.
Winter (December-February) is cold in most of the country, particularly in areas like Siberia and the Arctic Circle. Temperatures can drop to -30°C or lower, but this time of year can be a great opportunity to experience winter sports and activities, such as skiing and ice skating.
Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) tend to be mild and pleasant, with less crowds and lower prices. However, the weather can be unpredictable in these seasons.
In summary, the best time to visit Russia depends on what you want to do and see. Most tourists prefer to visit during the summer months, but others prefer the winter season for unique activities.

Russia: activities and what to do

Russia offers a wide range of activities and sports for vacationers. Some popular options are: 1. Skiing - Russia has many excellent ski destinations such as Sochi, Krasnaya Polyana, and Mount Elbrus.
2. Ice skating - Moscow's famous Gorky Park has one of the largest ice rinks in the world, or you can try ice skating on frozen lakes and rivers throughout the country.
3. Football (soccer) - Russia hosted the 2018 FIFA World Cup and has many world-class stadiums and football clubs to visit.
4. Swimming and beach activities - Russia has many coastal resorts along the Black Sea, such as Sochi, where you can enjoy sun, sea, and sand.
5. Hiking and trekking - Russia has some stunning scenic trails, such as the Caucasus Mountains, Altai Mountains, and Lake Baikal.
6. Cultural activities - Russia has a rich history and culture to explore, with many museums, art galleries, and architecture to discover.
7. Wildlife tours - Russia is home to a wide range of wildlife, including bears, wolves, elk, and Lynx. You can take guided tours to explore these animals in their natural habitats.
These are just a few examples of the activities and sports you can enjoy on holiday in Russia.

Russia: few words on history and culture

Russia has a rich history that spans over a thousand years. Its early history includes the Kievan Rus, a powerful medieval state that existed from around the 9th to the 13th century. In the 16th century, Ivan the Terrible became the first Tsar of Russia. The Romanov dynasty ruled from the late 16th century until the Russian Revolution in 1917, which brought about the Soviet Union.
Russia is known for its distinctive culture, which is influenced by its long history and geography. The country has a wealth of artistic and literary traditions, including icons, folk art, and literature. Some of the most famous names in Russian culture include Leo Tolstoy, Fyodor Dostoevsky, and Sergei Rachmaninoff. Russian cuisine is known for hearty dishes such as borscht and stroganoff, and the country's traditional dances include the famous Cossack dance. The Orthodox church also plays a significant role in Russian culture, and its rich and colorful religious art can be seen throughout the country.

Russia: how to move around on holiday

The best means of transport to reach Russia largely depends on your starting point and where in Russia you intend to visit. Here are some options: 1. Air travel: The most convenient way to reach Russia from abroad is by air travel. Most international flights land at Moscow's Domodedovo, Sheremetyevo, or Vnukovo airports. From there, you can take a domestic flight or travel by train to other parts of the country.
2. Train travel: Russia has an extensive rail network, and traveling by train is a popular and affordable way to explore the country. The Trans-Siberian Railway is a famous route that runs from Moscow to Vladivostok, passing through major cities like Yekaterinburg, Novosibirsk, and Irkutsk.
3. Bus travel: Buses connect several cities in Russia and are a cost-effective alternative to trains and domestic flights.
4. Car rental: Renting a car is an option for those who prefer to explore Russia at their own pace. However, it is important to note that driving in Russia can be challenging, especially in major cities.
Overall, air and train travel are the most popular means of transport for visitors to Russia. To hire a car to visit Russia, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Russia: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Russia with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some typical foods in Russia: 1. Blini - Blini are thin, crepe-like pancakes that are usually served with sour cream, caviar, or jam.
2. Borscht - Borscht is a rich, hearty soup made from beets, cabbage, potatoes, carrots, and onions, often served with sour cream.
3. Pelmeni - Pelmeni are small meat-filled dumplings that are served boiled or fried, often topped with butter or sour cream.
4. Shashlik - Shashlik is a skewered meat dish made from marinated pork, lamb, or beef and grilled over an open flame.
5. Olivier Salad - Olivier Salad is a traditional potato salad made with boiled potatoes, peas, carrots, pickles, eggs, and mayonnaise.
6. Pirozhki - Pirozhki are small baked or fried buns stuffed with meat, potatoes, onions, cabbage, cheese, or mushrooms.
7. Cabbage Rolls - Cabbage Rolls or Golubtsy is a dish made by stuffing cabbage leaves with a mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices.
These are just a few examples of the many delicious foods from Russian cuisine.

Russia: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Russia can be an expensive country for tourists, especially if you plan to visit major cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg. Accommodation, transportation, and food can be relatively costly, and there may be additional expenses for tourist attractions and activities.
However, it is still possible to travel to Russia on a budget by researching and planning ahead. There are also many cheaper options available such as staying in hostels or choosing to eat at local cafes or street food stalls instead of restaurants.
Overall, the cost of a trip to Russia would depend on your travel style, itinerary, and the season you visit.

Russia: where to find accodation

There are multiple ways to find accommodation in Russia, including the following: 1. Online booking platforms: Websites such as Booking.com, Agoda, and Airbnb are great places to search for accommodation in Russia.
2. Local travel agencies: Many travel agencies in Russia specialize in finding accommodation and can provide you with options that cater to your needs and budget.
3. Tourism offices: These offices can provide you with information about accommodation options and can also assist with booking.
4. Direct booking with hotels: Many hotels have their websites where you can book a room directly.
5. Hostels & Guesthouses: Hostels are popular in Russia, especially for budget travelers, and they offer a great opportunity to meet other travelers.
I recommend that you do research in advance, check reviews, and compare prices in order to find the best accommodation that suits your needs and budget.
You can check hotel prices in Russia here:
Booking.com

Russia: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the Federal Agency for Tourism of the Russian Federation, Russia received approximately 29 million tourists in 2019. The peak tourist season in Russia is typically during the summer months from June to August, as the weather is generally mild and conducive to travel. Many popular attractions, such as Saint Petersburg's Hermitage Museum and Moscow's Red Square, can become crowded during this time. Additionally, major holidays such as New Year and Orthodox Christmas (January 7) can also attract large numbers of visitors.
Russia is generally considered a safe country for tourists, but like any other destination, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Tourists should be vigilant in crowded areas and tourist sites, as pickpocketing and other petty crimes can occur in these areas. It is also advisable to avoid any demonstrations or political rallies, as these events could turn violent.
In terms of specific places to avoid, it is recommended to steer clear of regions such as Chechnya, Dagestan, and Ingushetia, where there have been reports of terrorist activity and political unrest in the past. It is also wise to avoid any areas near the Russian-Ukrainian border or the disputed regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia.
Overall, tourists should exercise caution and stay informed of any potential risks when traveling to Russia, but with proper preparation, a trip to Russia can be a safe and enjoyable experience.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Russia on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Russia: events for tourists

There are several interesting events for tourists in Russia that are worth checking out. Here are a few suggestions: 1. Moscow International Travel and Tourism Exhibition (MITT) – This is the largest tourism exhibition in Russia and one of the top five in the world. It takes place annually in March and brings together over 2,000 companies and organizations from around the world.
2. White Nights Festival – This is a cultural festival that takes place in St. Petersburg every summer. The festival includes numerous concerts, operas, ballets, and other cultural events. The highlight of the festival is the "Scarlet Sails" event, which is a massive fireworks display and ship parade along the Neva River.
3. International Fireworks Festival – This festival takes place in Moscow every summer and features several countries competing in a fireworks competition. The festival also includes music performances and other events.
4. Red Square Victory Day Parade – This parade takes place on May 9 every year in Moscow and celebrates the victory of the Soviet Union over Nazi Germany in World War II. The parade includes military displays and a flyover by the Russian Air Force.
5. Russian Winter Festival – This festival takes place in Moscow every December and January and celebrates Russian winter traditions. The festival includes ice sculptures, traditional Russian food and drink, ice skating, and other winter activities.
These are just a few of the many events that take place in Russia throughout the year. There is always something to see and do in this fascinating country.

Russia: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Russia, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here is a suggested two-week itinerary for a tourist visiting Russia: Day 1-3: Moscow - Visit Red Square, St. Basil's Cathedral, the Kremlin, and the Bolshoi Theatre - Explore the impressive collection of Russian art at the Tretyakov Gallery - Enjoy Russian cuisine and drinks at local restaurants and bars Day 4-6: St. Petersburg - Tour the Hermitage Museum and the impressive architecture of Peterhof Palace - Walk along Nevsky Prospekt, the main street in St. Petersburg - Enjoy a boat cruise on the Neva River to see the city from a different perspective Day 7-8: Veliky Novgorod - Explore the historic city center and visit the Novgorod Kremlin - See the ancient St. Sophia's Cathedral and Yaroslav's Court - Try traditional Russian food at local restaurants Day 9-11: Kazan - Visit the UNESCO-listed Kazan Kremlin and see the Kul Sharif Mosque - Walk through the pedestrian Baumana Street and explore local shops - Learn about the Republic of Tatarstan and its culture at the National Museum of the Republic of Tatarstan Day 12-13: Irkutsk and Lake Baikal - Take a train from Moscow or St. Petersburg to Irkutsk - See the historic wooden houses in the city center and visit local markets - Take a boat trip on Lake Baikal, the world's deepest lake, and explore its surroundings Day 14: Return to Moscow or St. Petersburg - Take a train or flight back to Moscow or St. Petersburg for your departure Of course, there are many other cities and attractions in Russia one can visit, but this itinerary gives you a good mix of major cities, landmarks, and cultural experiences throughout the country.

Russia: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Russia described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Astrakhan is a city in southern Russia, located on the banks of the Volga River near the Caspian Sea. It is the capital of Astrakhan Oblast and known for its rich history, diverse culture, and unique ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Astrakhan
- Barnaul is a city located in the Altai Krai region of Russia, situated along the Ob River. It is the administrative center of the region and has a population of approximately 630,000 people. Founded i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Barnaul
- Chelyabinsk is a city in Russia located in the Ural Mountains region. It is the administrative center of Chelyabinsk Oblast. The city has a population of roughly 1.2 million people and is known for it... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chelyabinsk
- Ekaterinburg is a city located in the Ural Mountains region of Russia. It is the fourth-largest city in the country, with a population of over 1.4 million people. The city was founded in 1723 and name... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ekaterinburg
- Irkutsk is a city located in Eastern Siberia, Russia, with a population of around 620,000 people. It is situated on the banks of the Angara River, and is known for its beautiful historic architecture,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Irkutsk
- Kaliningrad is a Russian city located on the Baltic Sea, and it is the capital of the Kaliningrad Oblast. It was formerly known as Koenigsberg and was part of the German Empire. It has a rich history ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kaliningrad
- Kaluga is a city located southwest of Moscow in Russia. It has a population of around 330,000 people. Kaluga is known for its rich history, culture, and architecture. It is considered one of the oldes... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kaluga
- Kazan is the capital city of the Republic of Tatarstan in Russia. It is located about 800km east of Moscow and has a population of over 1.2 million people, making it the eighth most populous city in R... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kazan
- Kemerovo is a city in southwestern Siberia, Russia. It is the administrative center of Kemerovo Oblast and the third largest city in the region. Kemerovo is situated on the Tom River, and is surrounde... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kemerovo
- Kirov is a city in Russia located in the Kirov Oblast region. It sits on the banks of the Vyatka River, about 900 kilometers east of Moscow. The city has a population of over 470,000 residents. Kirov ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kirov
- Kostroma is a historic city located in central Russia, around 330 kilometers northeast of Moscow. It is part of the Golden Ring - a group of ancient cities northeast of Moscow that played a significan... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kostroma
- Krasnodar is a city in southern Russia, located on the Kuban River in the Krasnodar Krai region. It is the administrative center of the region and the largest city in the South of Russia, with a popul... CONTINUE here for a trip to Krasnodar
- Krasnoyarsk is a city located in the eastern part of Russia, in the Siberian region. It is the third-largest city in Siberia and has a population of around 1 million people. It is situated on both ban... CONTINUE here for a trip to Krasnoyarsk
- Magnitogorsk is a city located in the Ural Mountains region of Russia. It has a population of approximately 400,000 people and is situated on the banks of the Ural River. The city is well-known for it... CONTINUE here for a trip to Magnitogorsk
- Moscow is the capital and largest city of Russia, located in the western part of the country, along the Moskva River. It has a population of around 12 million people and is a major political, economic... CONTINUE here for a trip to Moscow
- Murmansk is a port city located in the extreme northwest of Russia, on the eastern coast of the Kola Bay. It is the largest city located north of the Arctic Circle, and also serves as the administrati... CONTINUE here for a trip to Murmansk
- Nizhny Novgorod is a city located in western Russia, along the banks of the Volga River. It is the fifth largest city in Russia and serves as an important economic, cultural and transport center for t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nizhny Novgorod
- Nizhny Tagil is a city in the Ural Mountains region of Russia, located in the Sverdlovsk Oblast. It's the seventh largest city in the oblast, with a population of over 350,000 people. It has a rich hi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nizhny Tagil
- Novorossiysk is a city located in the Krasnodar Krai region of Russia, on the northeastern shore of the Black Sea. It is the main Russian port on the Black Sea, serving as a gateway to the Caucasus an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Novorossiysk
- Novosibirsk is a city located in the southwestern part of Russia, in the Siberian region. It is the third-largest city in Russia, with a population of over 1.5 million people. The city is a major tran... CONTINUE here for a trip to Novosibirsk
- Omsk is a city located in southwestern Siberia, Russia. It is the administrative center of Omsk Oblast and has a population of over 1.1 million people. Omsk is located at the confluence of the Om and ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Omsk
- Orenburg is a city in southwestern Russia, located at the confluence of the Ural and Sakmara Rivers. It is the administrative center of Orenburg Oblast. The city has a population of over 550,000 peopl... CONTINUE here for a trip to Orenburg
- Perm is a city located in the Ural Mountains region of Russia. It is the administrative center of Perm Krai and has a population of over 1 million people. The city is known for its cultural heritage, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Perm
- Petrozavodsk is a city located in the Republic of Karelia, in northwest Russia. It is situated on the western shore of Lake Onega, which is the second largest lake in Europe. The city has a population... CONTINUE here for a trip to Petrozavodsk
- Rostov-on-Don is a city located in southern Russia, on the banks of the Don River. It is the administrative center of the Rostov Oblast region and has a population of around 1.2 million people, making... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rostov sul Don
- Ryazan is a city located in central Russia, about 180 kilometers (112 miles) southeast of Moscow. It is the administrative center of the Ryazan Oblast region and has a population of approximately 540,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ryazan
- St. Petersburg is a city located in northwest Russia, on the banks of the Neva River. It was founded in 1703 by Peter the Great and was the capital of the Russian Empire from 1712 until 1918. The city... CONTINUE here for a trip to Saint Petersburg
- Samara is a large city located in the European part of Russia, on the banks of the Volga River. It is the sixth largest city in Russia and has a population of approximately 1.2 million people. Samara ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Samara
- Saransk is the capital city of the Republic of Mordovia in Russia. It is located in the central part of Russia, about 630 kilometers southeast of Moscow. The city has a population of around 300,000 pe... CONTINUE here for a trip to Saransk
- Saratov is a city located on the banks of the Volga River in southwestern Russia. It is the administrative center of Saratov Oblast and has a population of about 840,000 people. The city was founded i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Saratov
- Smolensk is a historic city in western Russia, located about 400 km southwest of Moscow. It is the administrative center of Smolensk Oblast and has a population of more than 300,000 people. The city h... CONTINUE here for a trip to Smolensk
- Sochi is a city located in Krasnodar Krai, Russia, on the Black Sea coast. It is known as a popular resort destination, particularly for its mild subtropical climate and beautiful beaches. Sochi attra... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sochi
- Stavropol is a city located in the southern part of Russia, near the border with Georgia. It is the capital of the Stavropol Krai region and has a population of approximately 400,000 people. The city ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Stavropol
- Syktyvkar is the capital city of the Komi Republic in Northwestern Russia. It is located around 1,200 kilometers northeast of Moscow and situated on the Sysola River. Syktyvkar has a population of aro... CONTINUE here for a trip to Syktyvkar
- Tambov is a city located in western Russia, specifically in the Tambov Oblast region. It has a population of around 280,000 people and is situated on the banks of the Tsna River. The city has a rich h... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tambov
- Tomsk is a city located in Western Siberia, Russia. It is the administrative center of Tomsk Oblast and has a population of around 590,000 people. Founded in the late 17th century, Tomsk is considered... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tomsk
- Tula is a city in central Russia, located about 193 kilometers south of Moscow. It is the administrative center of Tula Oblast and has a population of around half a million people. Tula is known for i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tula
- Tver is a city in central Russia located 170 kilometers northwest of Moscow. It has a population of approximately 400,000 people and is located on the Volga River. Tver is known for its rich history a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tver
- Ufa is the capital and largest city of the Republic of Bashkortostan in Russia. It is located in the southern part of the Ural Mountains and has a population of approximately 1.1 million people. The c... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ufa
- Ulan-Ude is a city located in the southeast of Russia, near the border with Mongolia. It is the capital of the Buryat Republic and has a population of about 400,000 people. The city is located on the ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ulan-Ude
- Veliky Novgorod is an ancient city located in the northwest of Russia, situated on the banks of the Volkhov River. It is one of the oldest and most historic cities in Russia, with a rich and fascinati... CONTINUE here for a trip to Veliky Novgorod
- Vladikavkaz is the capital city of the Republic of North Ossetia–Alania, a federal subject of Russia. It is located in the North Caucasus region, near the border with Georgia. The population of Vladik... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vladikavkaz
- Vladivostok is a city located in Russia's Far East, on the coast of the Sea of Japan. It is the largest city in the Primorsky Krai region and serves as a major transportation and economic hub for the ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vladivostok
- Volgograd is a city located in southwestern Russia, near the banks of the Volga River. The city was formerly known as Stalingrad and played a crucial role in World War II as the site of one of the mos... CONTINUE here for a trip to Volgograd
- Voronezh is a city located in southwestern Russia, on the banks of the Voronezh River. It is the administrative center of Voronezh Oblast, and is the 13th largest city in Russia with a population of o... CONTINUE here for a trip to Voronezh
- Yaroslavl is a historic city located in central Russia, about 250 kilometers northeast of Moscow. It is the largest city and the administrative center of the Yaroslavl Oblast region. Yaroslavl is cons... CONTINUE here for a trip to Yaroslavl


Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: