Cities
- Moscow: Discover the vibrant capital city of Russia, home to iconic landmarks such as the Red Square, the Kremlin, and St. Basil’s Cathedral.
- St. Petersburg: Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of this imperial city, known for its stunning architecture, including the Hermitage Museum and the Peterhof Palace.
- Novosibirsk: Explore the cultural hub of Siberia, with its thriving arts scene, beautiful parks, and the iconic Novosibirsk Opera and Ballet Theatre.
- Yekaterinburg: Visit the city where Europe meets Asia, and discover its historical significance, including the Church on the Blood, built on the site of the Romanov family execution.
- Kazan: Experience the unique blend of Russian and Tatar cultures in this vibrant city, home to the stunning Kazan Kremlin and the Qol Sharif Mosque.
Airports
- Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO): Located in Moscow, this airport serves as a major gateway to Russia, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights.
- Pulkovo Airport (LED): Situated in St. Petersburg, this airport provides convenient access to the city and serves as a hub for both domestic and international flights.
- Tolmachevo Airport (OVB): Serving Novosibirsk, this airport is one of the busiest in Russia, connecting the city to various destinations within the country and abroad.
- Koltsovo Airport (SVX): Located in Yekaterinburg, this airport offers a range of domestic and international flights, providing easy access to the city and its surrounding areas.
- Kazan International Airport (KZN): Serving Kazan, this airport connects the city to numerous destinations, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.
Airlines
- Aeroflot: Russia’s flagship carrier, offering a wide network of domestic and international flights with a focus on safety, comfort, and excellent service.
- S7 Airlines: One of Russia’s largest airlines, known for its extensive domestic and international routes, modern fleet, and top-notch customer service.
- Ural Airlines: A popular choice for domestic travel, Ural Airlines connects various cities within Russia and offers convenient connections to international destinations.
- Rossiya Airlines: Operating both domestic and international flights, Rossiya Airlines provides reliable service and comfortable travel experience.
- Nordwind Airlines: Offering a diverse range of destinations, Nordwind Airlines is known for its affordable fares and convenient schedules.
Destinations
- Lake Baikal: Explore the stunning natural beauty of the world’s deepest and oldest freshwater lake, known for its crystal-clear waters and unique wildlife.
- Golden Ring: Embark on a journey through ancient Russian towns, such as Vladimir, Suzdal, and Sergiev Posad, and discover their rich history and architectural treasures.
- Kamchatka Peninsula: Experience the raw beauty of Kamchatka’s volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and diverse wildlife, including bears and eagles.
- Trans-Siberian Railway: Embark on an epic train journey across Russia, spanning from Moscow to Vladivostok, and witness the country’s vast and diverse landscapes.
- Sochi: Known as Russia’s “Summer Capital,” Sochi offers a combination of stunning beaches, lush mountains, and world-class ski resorts.
Hotels
- The Ritz-Carlton Moscow: Enjoy luxurious accommodations and impeccable service in the heart of Moscow, with stunning views of the city skyline.
- Belmond Grand Hotel Europe: Experience the elegance of St. Petersburg at this historic hotel, known for its opulent interiors and world-class dining.
- Marins Park Hotel Novosibirsk: Located in the city center, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and convenient access to major attractions and transportation.
- Hyatt Regency Yekaterinburg: Experience modern comfort and excellent amenities at this centrally located hotel, ideal for both business and leisure travelers.
- Hotel Shushary Kazan: Situated near the Kazan Kremlin, this hotel provides comfortable accommodations and easy access to the city’s main sights.
Recreation Sites
- Hermitage Museum: Marvel at one of the world’s largest and most prestigious art museums, located in St. Petersburg, housing a vast collection of masterpieces.
- Baikal National Park: Discover the natural wonders of Lake Baikal, with opportunities for hiking, boating, and wildlife spotting in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Valley of Geysers: Explore the geothermal wonders of Kamchatka, with its impressive geysers, hot springs, and volcanic landscapes.
- Russian Museum: Immerse yourself in Russian art and culture at this museum in St. Petersburg, showcasing a comprehensive collection of Russian artworks.
- Red Square: Visit Moscow’s iconic Red Square, surrounded by architectural marvels such as the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and the State Historical Museum.
Folkloric Events
- Maslenitsa: Experience the festive atmosphere of Maslenitsa, a traditional Russian holiday celebrating the end of winter, with pancake feasts, music, and dancing.
- White Nights Festival: Join the vibrant celebrations in St. Petersburg during the White Nights, when the city experiences almost 24 hours of daylight.
- Scarlet Sails: Witness the magical spectacle of the Scarlet Sails, a grand fireworks display and a boat parade marking the end of the school year in St. Petersburg.
- International Folklore Festival: Enjoy traditional music, dance, and costumes from different regions of Russia and around the world at this annual festival in Moscow.
- Christmas Markets: Explore the festive markets in various Russian cities during the holiday season, offering traditional crafts, food, and entertainment.
Best Souvenirs
- Matryoshka Dolls: Take home a piece of Russian culture with these iconic nesting dolls, hand-painted and available in various sizes and designs.
- Samovar: Bring the taste of Russia to your home with a traditional samovar, a heated metal container used for brewing tea.
- Ushanka: Stay warm in style with a classic Russian fur hat, known as ushanka, featuring ear flaps and a distinctive design.
- Amber Jewelry: Admire the beauty of Baltic amber and choose from a wide selection of jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.
- Vodka: Indulge in Russia’s most famous spirit and bring home a bottle of premium vodka, known for its smooth taste and quality.
With its diverse cities, rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and unique traditions, Russia offers a wealth of experiences for travelers. Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Moscow and St. Petersburg, immersing yourself in the natural wonders of Lake Baikal and Kamchatka, or attending vibrant folkloric events, Russia is sure to captivate your senses. Don’t forget to bring back some of the country’s best souvenirs as a lasting memento of your unforgettable journey.