Russia Destination Guide
A vast land of striking contrasts, Russia is the largest, and depending on who you ask, the greatest country in the world. From barren tundra to sunny beaches in the Black Sea, Russia offers a near endless variety of picture-perfect landscapes straddling two continents, ten time zones and sharing a border with 14 different countries.
Characterised by its tumultuous history, immense size and incredible natural beauty, Russia is an ideal travel destination for adventurists, historians and those that love to get off the beaten track.
Start your Russia holiday by choosing the perfect itinerary for your interests and budget. Prices in the country can vary excessively from pricey capital Moscow to more affordable Asian towns.
Discover Russia's cultural capital
Russia tours have a lot to offer but since it is impossible to see everything in only one trip, you will have to take your pick from one of the many suggested routes or grab a Russia travel guide and make your own path.
One popular circuit is the Golden Ring, a group of historic Russian cities and towns in Central Russia that are known for their colourful churches and convents.
Others opt to take the world famous Trans-Siberian Railway, the longest railway in the world which connects the Russian capital Moscow and the city of Vladivostok in the far east.
When looking for flights to Russia you will have many options to choose from. Flying into St Petersburg is one possibility and this important city in northeastern Russia is undoubtedly the country's most picturesque, boasting sparkling waterways and a very European feel.
Home to world class museums such as the Hermitage and the Russian Museum, as well as the Saint Petersburg Philharmonic Grand Hall, where the city's world famous orchestra performs, Saint Petersburg is one of the friendliest of Russia's big cities.
Marvel at the majesty of Moscow
Moscow, the country's enormous capital, is another fantastic travel option. Moscow offers visitors countless things to see and do and is full of breathtaking architecture. Must-visit sights include the colourful Saint Basil's Cathedral and of course the glorious Red Square.
The Kremlin is perhaps the city's most famous landmark and visitors are sure to love the walled-in complex of palaces, cathedrals and government buildings. Don't leave Moscow without taking a look at the gorgeous architecture of the metro system, or window shopping on the exclusive Petrovka Boulevard.
If you go to Russia in winter definitely put aside a few rubles to add a few extra layers to your wardrobe - temperatures over the New Year dip deep below freezing in most parts of the country!
Stocked with your new fur coat you can try ice fishing or snowmobile driving in the countryside surrounding Murmansk, the largest city in the world above the Arctic Circle, or check out the abundance of wildlife found in Yugyd Va National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you'll spot reindeer, moose, wolf and fox if you cross your fingers tight enough.
Having recently hosted the Winter Olympics, Russia is also slowly gaining popularity as a skiing destination. Black Sea resorts offer the highest mountains, but you'll find better snow quality in the Urals ski resorts.
Something to keep in mind when deciding to visit Russia is that citizens of most countries do need a visa to visit. The process isn't overly complicated but it can take a little bit of time which rules out any last minute trips. Looks like you better start planning!
