As the largest country in the world, spreading from Europe in the west to Asia in the east, Russia has much to offer visitors. Whether you are visiting one of the fascinating and elegant European-inspired cities or exploring some of the wilder region to be found on the borders of former USSR republics, visiting Russia is a unique experience. Although parts of Russia are unsuitable for tourists because of local conflicts, the vast majority of this huge nation will welcome you with open arms, particularly in the major cities of Moscow and St Petersburg or the beach resorts on the Black Sea. The Trans-Siberian railway has been popular with backpackers for decades, taking visitors cheaply from Moscow to Vladivostock on Russia’s eastern coast, passing through over 9,000 kilometres of the Russian countryside.
Moscow and St Petersburg are the most likely destinations for visitors from outside Russia, attracted by their architecture and art, as well as their important roles in some of the major historical events of the 20th century. In St Petersburg, the Hermitage museum features many of the treasures of the Tsars, while the Mariinsky theatre hosts world-class ballet and opera performances throughout the year. Every visitor to Moscow should head straight for Red Square, the heart of the city and the site of many of its most famous buildings and memorials. Here you can see the Kremlin, the iconic colourful towers of St Basil’s cathedral and you can even visit Lenin’s tomb.
The “Golden Ring” is the name given to group of cities north-east of Moscow that also played important roles in Russia’s religious, cultural and military history. Many are home dozens of historical monuments, churches and fortresses, and tours of the Golden Ring from Moscow are very popular with tourists.
If you want to escape the inland cities, or you prefer to spend your holidays in a more relaxed atmosphere, the Black Sea resort of Sochi has been popular with Russians for many decades. As well as being home to several pleasant beaches and all the usual tourist amenities, Sochi’s streets are also full of architectural treasures and interesting historical buildings. In the winter, the region is just as popular with holidaymakers, thanks to its proximity to the skiing resorts of the Northern Caucasus.
If you really want to get away from it all, you should head to the far north of Russia, to Lake Baikal in Siberia. One of Russia’s most popular natural tourist attractions, you can get there on the Trans-Siberian railway, and if you are planning to cross Russia on the train, it is worth making a stop at Baikal. As well as beaches, there is a walking trail that skirts the shore of this huge body of water, offering some of the best views in the whole country.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Russia? Then below is a selection of holiday villas in Russia and holiday apartments in Russia that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
