Spring
A beautiful time when flowers bloom and temperatures rise, making it ideal for sightseeing.
Travel guide
俄羅斯
Russia, the largest country in the world, offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the vibrant cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg to the serene landscapes of Siberia, there is much to explore beyond the capital.
Izborsk_landscapes.jpg : Strokin.ru derivative work: Jjtkk · CC BY 3.0- Best MonthsMay to June, September to October
- AirportsSheremetyevo, Domodedovo, Pulkovo
- TransitExtensive public transport system
- Power220V, Type C and F plugs
- Tipping10% in restaurants
- LanguageRussian
01
When to go
The best time to visit Russia is during the late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and the tourist crowds are smaller.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Best monthsHot monthsCooler months
Summer
Warm weather attracts tourists to beaches and outdoor festivals across the country.
Autumn
A picturesque season with colorful foliage, perfect for exploring cultural sites.
02
Where to stay
Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.
Central
Moscow City Center
Experience the heart of Russia with its iconic landmarks and vibrant nightlife.
Busy and expensive.
Cultural
St. Petersburg's Historic Center
Explore the cultural capital with its stunning architecture and museums.
Tourist-heavy in summer.
Cultural
Kazan
A blend of Tatar and Russian cultures, known for its Kremlin and vibrant atmosphere.
Less touristy than Moscow.
Coastal
Sochi
A resort city on the Black Sea, famous for its beaches and the 2014 Winter Olympics.
Best in summer.
Coastal
Vladivostok
A port city with stunning views and a unique blend of Russian and Asian influences.
Far from other major cities.
Siberian
Irkutsk
Gateway to Lake Baikal, known for its wooden architecture and historical significance.
Cold winters.
Cultural
Yekaterinburg
A city with a rich history, known for its role in the Russian Revolution.
Industrial vibe.
Cultural
Nizhny Novgorod
A historic city with a beautiful Kremlin and vibrant arts scene.
Less known to tourists.
03
What to eat
Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.
Borscht
A beet soup often served with sour cream, found in many traditional restaurants.
→ Try it homemade.
Pelmeni
Dumplings filled with meat, popular in Siberian cuisine, available in local eateries.
→ Look for homemade versions.
Blini
Thin pancakes served with various fillings, found at street vendors and cafes.
→ Best with caviar.
Olivier Salad
A traditional Russian salad made with potatoes, peas, and meat, common at celebrations.
→ A must-try at festive meals.
Pirozhki
Baked or fried buns filled with meat, vegetables, or sweet fillings, available at bakeries.
→ Perfect for a snack.
Kasha
Buckwheat porridge, a staple in Russian cuisine, often served as a side dish.
→ Healthy and filling.
Kvass
A fermented beverage made from bread, commonly found in markets and cafes.
→ Refreshing in summer.
04
What to see
An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.
Red Square
Moscow's iconic square, home to the Kremlin and St. Basil's Cathedral.
The Hermitage Museum
One of the largest and oldest museums in the world, located in St. Petersburg.
Lake Baikal
The deepest freshwater lake in the world, known for its stunning natural beauty.
Kremlin
The fortified complex in Moscow, a symbol of Russian power and history.
Peterhof Palace
A magnificent palace with beautiful gardens, often referred to as the 'Russian Versailles'.
The Golden Ring
A group of historic cities northeast of Moscow, showcasing traditional Russian architecture.
Trans-Siberian Railway
The longest railway line in the world, offering breathtaking views of Russia's landscapes.
Bolshoi Theatre
Famous for its ballet and opera performances, located in Moscow.
St. Isaac's Cathedral
An architectural marvel in St. Petersburg, known for its impressive dome.
The State Historical Museum
Located in Moscow, it showcases the history of Russia from ancient times to the present.
Catherine Palace
A stunning baroque palace located in Tsarskoye Selo, near St. Petersburg.
Kamchatka Peninsula
Known for its volcanic landscapes and diverse wildlife, a paradise for nature lovers.
The Kremlin in Kazan
A UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing the blend of Tatar and Russian cultures.
The Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood
A stunning church in St. Petersburg, known for its colorful onion domes.
The VDNH Exhibition Center
A large park and exhibition center in Moscow, showcasing Soviet architecture and culture.
Mount Elbrus
The highest peak in Europe, located in the Caucasus Mountains, popular for skiing.
05
Getting around
Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.
Air Travel
Major airports include Sheremetyevo (SVO), Domodedovo (DME), and Pulkovo (LED).
SVOSheremetyevo
DMEDomodedovo
LEDPulkovo
Train Travel
The Trans-Siberian Railway offers a unique way to see the country, connecting major cities.
Public Transport
Cities have extensive metro and bus networks, making it easy to get around.
Car Rentals
Available in major cities, but driving can be challenging due to traffic and road conditions.
06
Practical notes
Plugs
Russia uses type C and type F plugs, with a standard voltage of 220V.
Cash
Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to have cash for small purchases.
Tipping
Tipping is customary, usually around 10% in restaurants.
Language
Russian is the official language; knowing basic phrases can be helpful.
Data
A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing.
Trip Duration
A trip of at least 10 days is recommended to explore major attractions.