Russia is the world’s largest country; it borders 14 different countries and straddles 10 different time zones – and yet to most, it feels largely unknown. The Iron Curtain has long been lifted and Russia is open for business. Its natural beauty and outlandish architecture make it a once-in-a-lifetime destination. However, you still need a visa and letter of support from a tour company or Russian organisation to enter, so you may want to save yourself the worry and leave the paperwork to an experienced tour provider.
Don’t miss these Russia attractions
- Moscow’s Red Square and St Basil’s Cathedral
- St Petersburg museums
- Siberia
- Pokrovskoyem
- Kamchatka
City breaks
A trip to Moscow is essential in order see the legendary Red Square and the iconic twisting, colourful domes of St Basil’s Cathedral. Lay eyes on and take a tour inside the mighty, fortified Kremlin complex, the official residence of the President of the Russian Federation.
Get a taste for blinis and borsch as you wander around the country’s cultural capital in St Petersburg. You’ll be treated to museums galore, like the Hermitage Museum with seemingly endless collections of Russian art, and more palaces than you can poke a stick at.
The whole story
Travel beyond Moscow and St Petersburg and experience Russia’s extreme landscapes – from the forests of Siberia to small countryside villages. Visit the birthplace of the infamous Rasputin in the town of Pokrovskoyem – where you can also experience a traditional Russian steam room, commonly known as a ‘banya’.
Adventurers can get their kicks with a trek up the snow-strewn face of Mount Elbrus, the highest peak in Europe, and helicopter flight over the jagged terrain of the Valley of Geysers in Kamchatka. This region is bursting with outdoor pursuits and you can spend your days luxuriating in the Dachniye hot springs or hiking Mount Vachkazhets.
