WHY IS RUSSIA FAMOUS FOR TOURISM?
Russia, the world’s largest country, offers an unparalleled blend of history, culture, and natural wonders. From the opulent grandeur of Moscow’s Kremlin and Red Square to the romantic canals of St. Petersburg, Russia’s iconic landmarks are steeped in stories of empires past. Its cultural heritage is equally captivating, with world-class ballet, opera, and art museums such as the Bolshoi Theatre and the Hermitage Museum drawing visitors from across the globe.
SOME FACTS ABOUT RUSSIA!
Capital: Moscow
Population: Approximately 146 million
Official Language: Russian
Currency: Russian Ruble (RUB)
Time Zones: Russia spans 11 time zones, from Kaliningrad in the west to Kamchatka in the east
WHAT IS IT LIKE TO VISIT RUSSIA?
Visiting Russia is like stepping into a living storybook. Wander through Moscow’s vibrant streets, admire St. Petersburg’s baroque and neoclassical architecture, or explore quaint villages where time seems to stand still. Culinary delights await, from hearty borscht to delicate blinis served with caviar. Whether you’re exploring the northern lights in Murmansk or cruising the Volga River, each moment feels tailor-made for discovery. With Pearl Travel & Leisure Group, your journey to Russia is designed to be as unique as the landscapes you’ll explore.
Uncover the magic of Russia with us - your bespoke luxury adventure awaits!
BEST TIME TO VISIT RUSSIA
Spring (March to May)
Nature begins to awaken, with flowers blooming and rivers thawing. Less crowded tourist spots compared to summer.
Best For: Sightseeing in cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg, exploring parks, and enjoying milder weather.
Weather: Cool, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 15°C (32°F to 59°F).
Late spring is warmer and more pleasant.
Summer (June to August)
The best time for outdoor activities and the famous White Nights in St. Petersburg (when the sun barely sets).
Festivals, river cruises, and exploring Siberian wilderness or Lake Baikal.
Best For: Urban tourism, hiking, and nature trips.
Weather: Warm, with temperatures between 20°C and 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Siberia and the north are cooler.
Autumn (September to November)
Stunning fall foliage, particularly in forests and parks. Quieter tourist attractions compared to summer.
Best For: Photography, cultural events, and city tours.
Weather: Temperatures drop steadily, ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F) in September to below freezing in November.
Winter (December to February)
A magical experience with snow-covered landscapes, Christmas markets, and New Year celebrations.
Unique activities like ice skating, dog sledging, and visiting the Northern Lights in the Arctic regions.
Best For: Winter sports, cultural experiences, and seeing Russia’s iconic architecture in a snowy setting.
Weather: Cold, with temperatures ranging from -15°C to 0°C (5°F to 32°F) in most areas.
Siberia and the Arctic regions can be much colder.
OBTAINING A RUSSIAN VISA
Foreign citizens entering Russia must have an entry visa in a valid national passport.
Make sure that your passport is current and will be valid at least for 6 months after your departure.
A visa to the Russian Federation is a document, permitting stay in Russia for a specific period of time. Visa lists entry/exit dates, your name, passport details, and a purpose of travel. Please note, that your Russian visa is an exit permit just like it’s an entry permit: if you lose it or stay over your designated departure date, leaving the country could be more troublesome than entering it.
In any case, check the visa rules for the Russian Federation applicable for your respective country.
For more details, contact the Consulate of the Russian Federation.
DO’s IN RUSSIA
1. Carry Your Passport and Visa at All Times:
Russian authorities may request to see your documents, especially in larger cities.
2. Learn a Few Russian Phrases:
Locals appreciate when visitors try to speak Russian. Basic phrases like below should be learnt.
Locals appreciate when visitors try to speak Russian. Basic phrases like below should be learnt.
Yes - (da) No - (nyet) Please - (poZHAlusta) Thank you - (spaSIbo)
You’re welcome - (ne za chto) Enjoy (often used instead of "you're welcome" for food) - (na zdaROVye) I'm sorry - (proSHU proSHCHEniya) Excuse me. - (izviNIte) I don’t understand - (YA ne poniMAyu) I don’t speak Russian. - (YA ne govoryU po RUSski) Do you speak English? - (vi govoRIte po angLIYski?) Help me, please. - (pomoGIte, poZHAlusta) Where is the bathroom? - (gde tuaLET?) One ticket, please. - (oDIN biLYET, poZHAlusta)
3. Respect Local Customs:
Show respect for Russian traditions, particularly in religious places like churches. Dress modestly, and women may need to cover their heads when entering some Orthodox churches.
4. Use Public Transport:
Metro systems in cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg are efficient, affordable, and often beautifully decorated.
5. Be Punctual:
Russians value punctuality, especially for formal meetings or appointments.
6. Try the Local Cuisine:
Sample Russian dishes like borscht, pelmeni, blini, and beef stroganoff, as well as regional specialties.
7. Respect Queue Lines:
Russians are orderly about forming lines; avoid cutting in.
8. Be Aware of Historical Sensitivities:
Be respectful when discussing topics like World War II, the Soviet era, or current geopolitics.
9. Use Official Taxis or Rideshare Apps:
Stick to trusted services like Yandex to avoid scams.
DON’TS IN RUSSIA
1. Don’t Assume Everyone Speaks English:
While younger people and those in tourist areas may know some English, it is not widely spoken, especially in rural areas.
2. Avoid Political Discussions:
Sensitive topics, particularly regarding Russian politics, history, or foreign relations, can lead to misunderstandings or offense.
3. Don’t Smile Excessively at Strangers:
Unlike in some countries, smiling at strangers might be seen as unusual or insincere. Russians generally reserve smiles for close acquaintances.
4. Don’t Photograph Certain Areas:
Avoid taking photos of government buildings, military sites, and metro security checkpoints. It could attract unwanted attention.
5. Don’t Drink Alcohol in Public Spaces:
Public drinking is prohibited unless you’re in designated areas like restaurants, bars, or private spaces.
6. Avoid Tipping Too Generously:
A tip of 10-15% is customary in restaurants, but excessive tipping might seem unusual.
7. Don’t Expect Tap Water to Be Drinkable:
Stick to bottled or filtered water, especially outside major cities.
8. Don’t Ignore Cultural Dress Codes:
In religious or formal settings, dress conservatively. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing when visiting churches or attending formal events.
9. Don’t Be Overly Loud:
Loud behaviour in public spaces, especially on public transport, is considered impolite.
10. Don’t Make Negative Remarks About Religion:
The Russian Orthodox Church plays a significant role in Russian culture, and criticism of religious practices can be offensive.
