1. Beyond the Capital: Must-Visit Regions
Russia is home to 11 time zones, meaning the landscape changes dramatically as you move across the map.
The Golden Ring
If you want to see "Old Russia," the Golden Ring is a loop of ancient cities northeast of Moscow. Towns like Suzdal and Vladimir feel like open-air museums. You will find:
White-stone churches from the 12th century.
Wooden architecture and traditional peasant cottages.
Local honey and crafts, perfect for those looking for an authentic rural atmosphere.
Lake Baikal: The Pearl of Siberia
Deep in the heart of Siberia lies Lake Baikal, the deepest and oldest freshwater lake on Earth.
In Summer: The water is crystal clear, surrounded by hiking trails and the Great Baikal Trail.
In Winter: The lake freezes into a thick, turquoise sheet of ice. You can drive across it, go ice-skating, or even try "ice diving." It is one of the most surreal natural sights in the world.
Kazan: Where East Meets West
Kazan is the capital of Tatarstan and offers a fascinating mix of Russian Orthodox and Muslim cultures. Inside the Kazan Kremlin, a cathedral and a grand mosque stand side-by-side, symbolizing the peaceful coexistence of different faiths.
2. Unique Experiences and Activities
When you travel to Russia, don't just look at the buildings—participate in the local way of life.
The Russian Banya (Bathhouse): This is a national ritual. It involves a very hot steam room, followed by a refreshing plunge into cold water or snow. It is believed to be great for your health and is a deeply social experience.
Trans-Siberian Railway: For the ultimate adventurer, taking the train from Moscow to Vladivostok is a bucket-list item. The journey takes about seven days non-stop, passing through the Ural Mountains, the Siberian taiga, and various ethnic regions.
Dog Sledding and Volcanoes: In the Far East, specifically Kamchatka, you can witness active volcanoes and go dog sledding across volcanic plateaus.
3. Practical Tips for a Smooth Journey
Russia has its own set of social rules and practicalities that are helpful to know before you arrive.
Topic
Advice
Payments
Currently, most international credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) do not work inside Russia. You must bring cash (USD or Euro) to exchange for Rubles at local banks.
Shoes
Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home. You will likely be given tapochki (slippers) to wear.
Flowers
If you buy flowers for a host, ensure there is an odd number. Even numbers are strictly for funerals.
App Navigation
Download Yandex Go for taxis and Yandex Maps. These apps work much better than Western counterparts in Russia.
4. Understanding Russian Etiquette
Russians may seem serious at first glance, but they are known for their incredible hospitality once you get to know them.
Public Behavior: It is uncommon to smile at strangers on the street or speak loudly on public transport. Keeping a calm, reserved demeanor is considered polite.
Chivalry: Traditional manners are still very common. Men will often hold doors for women or offer to carry heavy bags for strangers.
Respecting Icons: When visiting Orthodox churches, women should cover their heads with a scarf, and men should wear long trousers (no shorts).
5. What to Eat: A Taste of the North
Russian food is hearty, warm, and perfect for the climate.
Pelmeni: Small meat dumplings often served with sour cream.
Plov: A fragrant rice and meat dish popular in the southern regions and at markets.
Kvass: A traditional fermented drink made from rye bread—very refreshing in the summer!
Blini: Thin pancakes served with everything from sweet honey to savory caviar.
Traveling through Russia is a lesson in scale and diversity. Whether you are drinking tea on a long-distance train or watching the sunset over the Caspian Sea, the country offers a sense of wonder that few other places can match.