Russia

Travel Guide
Minin and Pozharsky Monument which includes heritage architecture
The world’s largest country offers thrills and attractions aplenty, from exuberant imperial palaces and onion-domed orthodox cathedrals to outdoor adventure in the countryside.

Russia is vast and varied. Trek across rugged mountains, spend days wandering around bustling metropolises, lounge beside idyllic lakes and explore the shimmering seas and remote islands of the coast. Whether it’s the opulent architecture, astonishing art collections or warmth of the people, Russian never fails to captivate. 

Among the most recognizable of Russia’s many cities is the capital Moscow, the country’s cultural hub. Attend a ballet performance at the Bolshoi Theatre and stroll down the Arbat, one of Moscow’s oldest and most upmarket streets. Don’t miss Red Square, a huge cobblestone central plaza surrounded by striking buildings and monuments such as the State Historical Museum and Lenin’s Mausoleum.

St. Petersburg, the second-largest city in Russia, is known for its striking bulbous-domed churches and picturesque palaces. See golden statues in Peterhof Park and marvel at the colorful façade of the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood. The region’s history is evident in the blue and gold Catherine Palace, which once hosted the Russian czars.

Outside of these two major cities, Russia’s attractions are widespread and plentiful. Head northwest to Arkhangelsk for the State Northern Sea Museum, a fascinating institution that displays old whaling tools. In the winter, skiers of all levels can find groomed trails on the slopes of Mount Elbrus. For stunning natural views and a remote getaway, head to the Solovetsky Islands in the White Sea and explore the impressive Solovetsky Transfiguration Monastery.

Luckily for travelers hoping to explore as much of Russia as possible, an efficient train network and plenty of domestic flights make getting around relatively easy. Buses and fixed-route minibuses, often referred to as “marshrutky,” are usually reliable. Renting a car is possible, but check ahead to make sure your planned routes are adequately maintained with decent signposting. 

Visit during Russia’s high season, from June to September, for warm weather. Cold winters promise picturesque snowy vistas, while spring and fall offer milder temperatures.

Since the fall of the Soviet Union, Russia has become an increasingly popular vacation spot, attracting visitors with its culturally rich cities, Black Sea beach resorts and great ski destinations.

Popular cities in Russia

Moscow Kremlin featuring night scenes, a river or creek and a city
Moscow
Known for Historical, Theaters and Museums
Visit the capital of Russia, a large modern city that combines dazzling architecture with cultural riches and a fascinating history.

Reasons to visit

  • Red Square
  • Moscow Kremlin
  • Bolshoi Theatre
St. Petersburg featuring a park, night scenes and a fountain
St. Petersburg
Known for Castle, Cathedrals and Historical
Cruise along canals, tour architectural masterpieces and enjoy festivals under a midnight sun in Russia’s second-largest city.

Reasons to visit

  • State Hermitage Museum and Winter Palace
  • Russian Museum
  • St. Isaac's Cathedral
Yekaterinburg
Yekaterinburg
Known for Theaters, Monuments and Universities
Trip time! Discover the theater, monuments, and skiing in trendy Yekaterinburg.

Reasons to visit

  • Church on Blood in Honor of All Saints Resplendent in the Russian Land
Kazan
Kazan
Known for Monuments, Theaters and Museums
Kazan is calling! Discover its monuments, theater, parks, and more.

Reasons to visit

  • Kul Sharif Mosque
Nizhny Novgorod
Nizhny Novgorod
Known for Rivers, Roller skating and Ice skating
Escape to Nizhny Novgorod! Enjoy its ice-skating, theater, and monuments.

Reasons to visit

  • Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin
Sochi
Sochi
Known for Skiing, Mountains and Entertainment
Explore Sochi: its monuments, skiing, riverfront, and more!

Reasons to visit

  • Port of Sochi

Popular places to visit

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