A trip to Russia means exploring the largest country in the world, a land of stunning contrasts, diverse cultures, and breathtaking landscapes. From the opulence of St. Petersburg to the remote Siberian wilderness, from Moscow’s iconic onion domes to timeless villages lost in history.
Every region, city, and encounter reveals a different side of Russia, steeped in centuries of history, traditions, and fascinating contradictions. Whether you’re into art, culture, nature, or adventure, Russia has something special for every kind of traveler!
When Is the Best Time to Visit Russia?
Russia is known for its famously harsh winters (just ask Napoleon!), but its climate can also be surprisingly pleasant during certain seasons:
- Spring (April–May): Still a bit chilly, but with blooming flowers and fewer tourists, it’s a beautiful and peaceful time to visit.
- Spring (April–May): Still a bit chilly, but with blooming flowers and fewer tourists, it’s a beautiful and peaceful time to visit.
- Autumn (September–early October): Russia’s golden season, warm tones transform forests and countryside into a stunning natural painting.
- Winter (November–March): Icy cold, but absolutely enchanting! A fairytale atmosphere perfect for holiday lovers and winter sports fans.
10 Unmissable Places and Experiences for Your Trip
Russia is vast and complex, picking just ten highlights wasn’t easy! But for a first trip, these destinations strike the perfect balance of authenticity and accessibility.
Moscow
Russia’s vibrant capital is a thrilling mix of imperial grandeur, Soviet history, and bold modernity.
Don’t miss the Kremlin, Red Square, and the iconic St. Basil’s Cathedral, then stroll through Moscow’s grand avenues and soak up the city’s soul.
👉 Recommended activity: Book a night tour to see Moscow lit up, or enjoy a river cruise on the Moskva River.
St. Petersburg
Often called the “Venice of the North,” this elegant city is famous for its majestic palaces, canals, and art treasures.
The Hermitage, the Winter Palace, Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, and White Nights all make St. Petersburg a dream destination.
👉 Recommended activity: Skip the line with a guided Hermitage tour, and take a romantic evening walk down Nevsky Prospekt.
The Golden Ring
A window into rural, spiritual Russia, perfect for those wanting to escape the tourist crowds.
This scenic loop of historic towns northeast of Moscow includes Suzdal, Vladimir, and Sergiev Posad, known for their monasteries, kremlins, and ancient churches.
👉 Recommended activity: Explore with a local guide and travel by car to get the most out of your visit.
Kazan
A captivating blend of Russian and Muslim cultures. Kazan, the capital of Tatarstan, is home to both mosques and Orthodox churches inside the same Kremlin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
👉 Recommended activity: Visit the Kazan Kremlin and don’t miss tasting chak-chak, a sweet Tatar specialty.
Sochi
Russia’s top Black Sea resort and host of the 2014 Winter Olympics.
Sochi offers a rare combo: summer beach vibes with access to mountain adventures. The region has a mild climate and modern infrastructure.
👉 Recommended activity: Take a scenic cable car ride in Krasnaya Polyana and relax in one of the area’s famous spa resorts.
Lake Baikal
The deepest and oldest lake in the world, and a true natural wonder.
Kayak in the summer or trek along its stunning shores. In winter, the frozen lake becomes a magical ice landscape, perfect for sledding or skating!
👉 Recommended activity: Book a jeep tour across the frozen lake from Irkutsk to Olkhon Island—an unforgettable adventure.
Yekaterinburg
Known as the final chapter in the Romanov dynasty’s tragic history, this city marks the border between Europe and Asia.
Today, it’s a dynamic cultural hub with art, museums, and an up-and-coming food scene.
👉 Recommended activity: Visit historic Romanov sites and take a stroll along pedestrian-friendly Vaynera Street.
Vladivostok
The final stop of the legendary Trans-Siberian Railway! Facing Japan, Vladivostok offers futuristic bridges, vibrant port life, and a unique mix of Russian and East Asian influences.
👉 Recommended activity: Take a boat tour of the bay and visit the scenic Tokarevsky Lighthouse.
Veliky Novgorod
One of Russia’s oldest cities, founded in the 9th century.
Its Kremlin is one of the most picturesque in the country, and the entire town feels like a living museum of religious art and medieval architecture.
👉 Recommended activity: Book a guided tour to fully appreciate the incredible frescoes inside its ancient churches.
Kaliningrad
Gothic architecture, Soviet history museums, and Baltic beaches.
This fascinating enclave between Poland and Lithuania (formerly Königsberg) offers a lesser-known but deeply rewarding slice of Russia.
👉 Recommended activity: Take a guided history tour and visit the world-renowned Amber Museum.
How to Get Internet in Russia
Staying connected while traveling in Russia is essential—for navigation, translation (English isn’t widely spoken), and digital payments.
Internet options while abroad – Russia:
- Free Wi-Fi: Available in hotels, restaurants, and major cities, but it can be unreliable and insecure
- Local SIM cards: Available in stores, but require your passport and a potentially long activation process
- International roaming: Usually extremely expensive, with slow speeds
- eSIM Russia: A digital SIM that connects you instantly to Russian mobile networks
The Best Way to Stay Connected: eSIM Russia
At www.esim.sm you can buy an eSIM for Russia that suits your needs, ready to activate before departure—no physical SIM card required!
Why choose an eSIM from eSIM.sm?
- Flexible plans: from 1GB up to 100GB
- Activate within 90 days of purchase
- Recharge anytime directly from your account
- Immediate internet access upon arrival
- 24/7 customer support
- Keep using WhatsApp to call friends and family
- Check our list of supported devices to make sure your phone is compatible before buying
What You Need to Know Before Traveling to Russia
- Visa: Required! Apply well in advance. You’ll need an invitation letter (voucher) from your hotel or tour agency
- Language: Russian is spoken almost exclusively, and few people speak English
- Currency: The ruble is used. Cards are widely accepted, but cash is still preferred in some areas
- Customs: Border checks can be strict, avoid bringing any sensitive or politically critical material
- Culture: Don’t engage in political discussions, and respect religious sites (cover your head or remove hats if required)
- Transport: Trains and metros are very efficient, download offline maps for more remote areas
- Internet and privacy: Some websites and apps may be restricted, consider installing a VPN before your trip
