Russia

The best time to visit Russia depends on the experience you’re seeking. Summer (June to August) is ideal for exploring Moscow, St. Petersburg, and the Golden Ring with pleasant weather and long daylight hours. Winter (December to February) transforms Russia into a snowy wonderland, perfect for witnessing the Northern Lights in Murmansk or enjoying ski resorts in Sochi.

A week is enough to explore highlights like Moscow and St. Petersburg. For a more in-depth Russia itinerary that includes the Golden Ring, Lake Baikal, or a Trans-Siberian Railway journey, plan for 12 to 21 days.

Russia appeals to history enthusiasts, art lovers, adventure seekers, and cultural explorers alike. From the opulence of the Kremlin and the Hermitage Museum to Siberian wilderness and the Northern Lights, Russia has experiences for families, couples, and solo travellers.

Russia is famous for its onion-domed cathedrals, the Red Square, the Hermitage Museum, and the Trans-Siberian Railway. Its landscapes range from Lake Baikal to the Caucasus Mountains, and its traditions include ballet, literature, and folk dances. Beyond landmarks, Russia also offers travellers wellness escapes at countryside sanatoriums and traditional healing practices rooted in nature and spirituality.

Russia is a transcontinental country, with about 77% of its land in Asia and 23% in Europe. However, the majority of its population lives in the European part, including major cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg. This unique geography makes Russia a blend of European and Asian influences.

Yes, Indian travellers need a visa to visit Russia. Options include tourist visas, e-visas (available for specific regions), and transit visas depending on travel plans. The process requires confirmed accommodation and travel details. Always check the latest requirements before your trip, and verify details on the official Russia visa portal.

The currency of Russia is the Russian Ruble (RUB). Due to international sanctions, most international credit and debit cards do not work in Russia. The best option for travellers is to carry cash — either Russian Rubles if available in advance, or US Dollars to exchange locally upon arrival. Currency exchange counters are available at airports and in major cities, making cash the most reliable way to cover expenses during your trip.

The official language of Russia is Russian. English is spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and by younger generations in larger cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg. In rural regions, English is less common, but travellers often find locals welcoming and helpful.

Russian culture values formality and respect. A firm handshake is a common greeting, and punctuality is appreciated. When visiting churches or monasteries, dress modestly, with women covering their heads and men removing hats. Avoid discussing politics with strangers, and always respect personal space.

Russian cuisine is hearty and diverse. Popular dishes include borscht, pelmeni (dumplings), blinis, and beef stroganoff. Vegetarians will find limited options in traditional eateries, but larger cities offer international and plant-based dining. Tea culture is strong, and vodka holds cultural significance at celebrations.

Russia can be tailored to various budgets. Mid-range travellers can expect to spend INR 8,000–12,000 per day on meals, stays, and local transport. Backpackers may spend less with hostels and local dining, while luxury travellers will find high-end hotels and exclusive experiences in major cities.

Russia’s main international airports include Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo, and Vnukovo in Moscow, as well as Pulkovo Airport in St. Petersburg. Other key airports are located in Sochi, Kazan, and Vladivostok for regional access.

Russia is vast, and travel often involves long distances. High-speed trains connect Moscow and St. Petersburg, while sleeper trains link other regions. Domestic flights are the fastest way to cover Siberia and the Far East. In cities, metros, trams, and buses are efficient, though English signage may be limited.

Train travel in Russia is one of the most popular and memorable ways to experience the country. The network is extensive, with both government-operated and private trains connecting major cities and regions. High-speed trains like Sapsan link Moscow and St. Petersburg in under four hours, while long-distance and overnight trains such as the Rossiya or the world-famous Trans-Siberian Railway cover vast distances across multiple time zones.

There are several classes of service available:

• First Class (SV) – private cabins with two berths, air-conditioning, and premium service. Can be compared to AC 1st class on Indian trains. 

• Second Class (Kupe) – four-berth compartments offering comfort at a lower cost. Can be compared to AC 2 Tier on Indian trains but cabin style with doors for privacy.

• Third Class (Platzkart) – open-plan coaches with shared berths, popular with locals and budget travellers. These can be compared to our AC 2 tier coaches without curtains. 

Facilities on board vary but typically include bedding, dining cars, and samovars (hot water for tea/coffee). Tickets can be booked on tutu.travel, but due to language barriers and the complexity of the system, it is highly recommended to book through a trusted travel agency. This is especially important for older travellers, as managing transfers, tickets, and station navigation independently can be challenging. Connect with us if you want detailed information. 

Connectivity between Russia’s major cities is excellent via rail and air. The Moscow–St. Petersburg high-speed train is a popular route, while the Trans-Siberian Railway connects the country east to west. Frequent domestic flights make travelling across long distances more practical.