The Best Things to Do in Russia For Beginners
The Best Things to Do in Russia For Beginners
Russia is… well, a whole mood. It’s the kind of place that leaves you wondering if you’ve stepped into a history book, a surreal dream, or a movie set (spoiler: it’s all three). With its mind-blowing size, jaw-dropping contrasts, and unapologetic quirks, Russia demands your attention — and it delivers.
It’s where you can sip tea with a babushka one moment and belt out karaoke with locals in a bar the next. It’ll make you think you know what to expect, and then surprise you, charm you, and maybe even confuse you, but it’ll never leave you bored.
So, what’s Russia really like? It’s beautiful, brash, bizarre, and breathtaking. It’s a country that challenges you to think differently, to stare in awe at its quirks, and to embrace its rich, complex soul.
So let’s dive into the best things to do in this destination of a lifetime.
Watch a Ballet Performance at the Bolshoi Theatre
There are ballet performances, and then there’s the Bolshoi Theatre, where the stage transforms into a portal of pure artistry. Built in 1825 and boasting a legacy that’s as dramatic as the art form it hosts, the Bolshoi is the gold standard of ballet. This is a global icon where legends are born, from “Swan Lake” to “The Nutcracker.”
Step into its opulent interiors, with gilded chandeliers, plush red velvet seats, and a ceiling so beautifully painted it might distract you from the performance (only briefly, though—the dancers will pull you right back in). Watching a show here is an emotional rollercoaster of grace, athleticism, and music that stays with you long after the final bow.
Highlights
Iconic Performances: From classics like “Giselle” to contemporary pieces, every performance is a masterclass in ballet perfection.
Historical Ambiance: The Bolshoi’s lavish interiors and rich history make attending a performance feel like stepping into another era.
Live Orchestra: The music is as mesmerizing as the dance, performed by some of the finest musicians in the world.
Location & Getting There
Location: The Bolshoi Theatre, Teatralnaya Square, Moscow.
Getting there: Take the Moscow Metro to Teatralnaya Station—it’s just a short walk from there. Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Yandex or Bolt will also get you there for around 400–600 RUB ($5–$8 USD) from most parts of the city.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
Opening Hours: Performances usually start at 7 PM, but timings can vary. Check the schedule online.
Best Time to Visit: Evenings for the full theater ambiance, with an extra touch of glamour and a buzzing crowd.
Price: Tickets range from 2,000 RUB ($25 USD) to 15,000 RUB ($190 USD), depending on the seat and the performance.
Pro Tips
Dress to impress—while formal attire isn’t mandatory, the Bolshoi is the kind of place where you’ll want to look sharp.
Arrive at least 30 minutes early to soak in the atmosphere and explore the stunning foyer.
Don’t forget to check out the schedule for premieres or special performances—those are the ones you’ll be bragging about.
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Experience a Russian Banya
If you’ve never tried a Russian banya, get ready for a steamy, slightly intense, and incredibly relaxing adventure. The banya isn’t just a sauna—it’s a ritual, a social event, and a full-body cleanse rolled into one. You’ll be sweating out your stress in a wood-paneled steam room, being smacked (gently, we promise) with birch branches, and then cooling off with an icy plunge or a cold shower. It sounds dramatic, but trust us, your body will thank you afterward.
Highlights
Steam Room: The heart of the banya, where temperatures soar and your stress melts away.
Venik Treatment: A traditional "massage" using birch or oak branches to exfoliate and improve blood flow. It’s oddly soothing—once you get used to it.
Cold Plunge: Brace yourself for an icy dip or cold shower after the steam—it’s invigorating and the perfect way to reset.
Location & Getting There
Location: Russian banyas are typically found in cities and spa resorts. If you’re in a major city like Moscow or St. Petersburg, ask locals for the most authentic spots. Popular options include Sanduny Baths in Moscow or Yamskiye Baths in St. Petersburg.
Getting there: Taxis like Yandex or Bolt will get you there for around 300–500 RUB ($4–$7 USD), depending on your starting point.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
Opening Hours: Most banyas operate from early morning until late evening (8 AM–10 PM). Some even offer overnight sessions.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for a quieter experience, as weekends tend to be busier with locals unwinding.
Price
Expect to pay anywhere from 1,000–3,000 RUB ($15–$45 USD) for entry, depending on the banya’s exclusivity and included amenities. Extras like venik treatments or massages cost extra.
Pro Tips
Bring your essentials: Pack a swimsuit, flip-flops, and a towel. Some banyas rent these out, but bringing your own is more hygienic.
Stay hydrated: Drink water or tea between sessions to keep your energy up.
Go easy on yourself: Start with shorter steam sessions and build up—no need to overdo it on your first try.
Try the snacks: Some banyas have cozy cafes serving traditional Russian snacks like tea, honey, and rye bread. Perfect for recharging after all that sweating.
Join a Local Festival Like Maslenitsa
If you’ve ever wanted to party like it’s the 17th century and eat your weight in pancakes, Maslenitsa is your golden ticket. Held in the week leading up to Lent, Maslenitsa is all about indulgence before the fasting begins. Known as the "Butter Week" or "Pancake Week," this ancient Slavic festival marks the end of winter and welcomes spring with food, music, and good old-fashioned bonfires.
Highlights
Blini Galore: Sweet, savory, or stacked like a pancake cake—blini is the star of the show. It’s a carb lover’s paradise.
Traditional Games: Think tug-of-war, sledding, and playful wrestling matches, all designed to keep the energy and spirits high.
Effigy Burning: The fiery farewell to winter is both symbolic and totally Instagram-worthy. Don’t miss the bonfire!
Location & Getting There
Location: Maslenitsa is celebrated across Russia, but major cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg throw some of the biggest parties. Parks, town squares, and cultural centers are the usual hotspots.
Getting there: If you’re in Moscow, head to Kolomenskoye Park or Red Square. In St. Petersburg, try the Peter and Paul Fortress. Public transport or a short taxi ride (200–500 RUB/$2–$7 USD) will get you there.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
Festival Dates: Typically held during the last week before Orthodox Lent, usually in late February or early March.
Best Time to Visit: Weekends are the liveliest, with more performances, games, and crowds soaking up the festive vibes.
Price: Most events are free to attend, but expect to spend 100–300 RUB ($1.50–$5 USD) on food and small souvenirs.
Pro Tips
Dress warm—Maslenitsa celebrates spring, but winter usually sticks around for the party.
Come hungry; you’ll want to sample every type of blini on offer.
Brush up on a few Russian phrases like “Spasibo” (thank you) and “Kakaya vkusnota!” (how delicious!) for ad-hoc use.
Ride a Husky Sled Across The Siberian Plains
This one’s way better than anything Hollywood could dream up. Imagine gliding through endless blankets of snow, icy winds nipping at your face, and a team of energetic huskies leading the charge. These dogs aren’t just adorable — they’re born for this, with boundless energy, sharp instincts, and a contagious enthusiasm that’ll make you feel like part of the pack.
Picture towering snow-draped trees, frozen rivers, and a horizon so wide it feels like the edge of the world. This goes beyond the ride — this is about connecting with nature, the huskies, and the ancient Russian traditions of sledding that date back centuries.
Highlights
Adrenaline and Awe: Speed across snowy plains as your team of huskies eagerly pulls the sled, creating a thrilling and unforgettable experience.
Connect with Nature: This is Siberia at its finest—pristine, untouched, and breathtakingly beautiful.
Meet the Huskies: Get to know your fluffy team before the ride. Spoiler alert: they love belly rubs and will probably steal your heart.
Location & Getting There
Location: Husky sledding tours are available in several Siberian regions, including Lake Baikal and Altai.
Getting there: Fly into Irkutsk or Novosibirsk, then connect with local tour operators who organize transport to the sledding locations. Many packages include transfers, so you’re covered.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
Opening Hours: Tours typically operate during daylight hours, starting from early morning. Exact times depend on the provider.
Best Time to Visit: Winter is peak season (December to February) when the snow is at its finest, but early spring (March) can also offer stunning conditions.
Price
Expect to pay around $100–$200 USD per person for a 2–3 hour sledding adventure, depending on the region and tour package. Longer multi-day expeditions are also available if you’re ready to channel your inner Arctic explorer.
Pro Tips
Dress in layers and wear proper winter gear—thermal gloves, waterproof boots, and a hat that won’t fly off in the wind. Siberia doesn’t mess around with the cold.
Don’t forget your camera, but make sure it’s cold-resistant (or bring extra batteries—Siberian weather drains them fast).
Take a moment to bond with the huskies before and after the ride—they love the attention and will reward you with wagging tails and slobbery kisses.
If you’re steering, listen carefully to your guide’s instructions. The dogs are pros, but you’ll need to keep them on track.
Photograph the Northern Lights in Murmansk
Murmansk, perched in Russia’s Arctic region, is your golden ticket to witnessing one of nature’s most dazzling shows: the aurora borealis, a.k.a. the Northern Lights. These magical, dancing ribbons of green, pink, and purple light up the night sky like a cosmic rave party. Murmansk is one of the easiest and most accessible places to chase the auroras, offering both rugged Arctic wilderness and a dash of Russian hospitality.
Bonus: With Murmansk’s long polar nights, your chances of spotting them are sky-high during the aurora season.
Highlights
Dancing Lights: Witness the Northern Lights in all their glory, with vivid colors rippling through the Arctic night sky.
Starry Backdrop: Murmansk’s location far from light pollution gives you a crystal-clear view of the stars, making your photos even more magical.
Adventure Factor: Venture into the snow-covered tundra for the best viewing spots—because the lights deserve nothing less than a wild Arctic backdrop.
Location & Getting There
Location: Murmansk, Russia’s Arctic region. The best viewing spots are outside the city, in the nearby tundra.
Getting there: Fly into Murmansk Airport from Moscow or St. Petersburg (about a 2.5-hour flight). From there, join a guided tour or hire a car to explore aurora-chasing locations.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
Best Time to Visit: September to March is prime aurora season. Polar nights (December to January) mean extended darkness, giving you more opportunities to spot the lights.
Viewing Hours: Late evening to early morning (10 PM–2 AM) is when the auroras usually put on their best show.
Price
Guided Aurora Tours: Start from 5,000 RUB ($50 USD) per person, including transport and a knowledgeable guide.
DIY: Renting a car costs around 3,000 RUB ($30 USD) per day, but make sure you have proper gear and a local map.
Pro Tips
Dress like an Arctic explorer—layers, insulated boots, gloves, and a hat are non-negotiable.
Bring a tripod and a DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings for those pro-level aurora shots.
Check the aurora forecast online and choose a night with clear skies—cloud cover is the ultimate buzzkill.
Book a guided tour if you’re new to aurora chasing—they know all the best spots and tricks.
Ski in Rosa Khutor
If hitting the slopes in style is your idea of a good time, Rosa Khutor in Sochi is where you need to be. This premier ski resort gained global fame during the 2014 Winter Olympics, and it’s been a hotspot for adrenaline junkies and snow enthusiasts ever since. With over 100 km of perfectly groomed pistes, modern lifts, and jaw-dropping views of the Caucasus Mountains, Rosa Khutor offers something for everyone—from first-timers to seasoned pros.
And it’s not just about skiing. The village at the base of the resort is like stepping into a European postcard, with cozy chalets, bustling cafes, and even après-ski spots where you can trade slope stories over a warm drink.
Highlights
Diverse Slopes: With trails ranging from beginner-friendly greens to heart-racing black diamonds, there’s a run for every skill level.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Modern gondolas, chair lifts, and equipment rentals make your ski experience seamless and stress-free.
Spectacular Views: The panoramic views of the Caucasus Mountains are worth the trip alone—just don’t get too distracted mid-run!
Olympic Legacy: Ski on the same slopes that challenged the world’s best athletes during the Winter Olympics.
Location & Getting There
Location: Rosa Khutor Alpine Resort, Sochi, Russia, about 50 km from Sochi city center.
Getting there: The easiest way is by train (the Lastochka) from Sochi to Rosa Khutor station—it takes about 1.5 hours and costs around 350 RUB ($4 USD). Taxis or transfers are also available, costing roughly 2,000 RUB ($25 USD).
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
Opening Hours: Lifts typically operate from 9 AM to 4 PM during the ski season, which runs from December to April.
Best Time to Visit: January and February offer the best snow conditions, though December and March are less crowded.
Price
Lift Passes: Prices start at 1,500 RUB ($18 USD) for a single-day pass, with discounts for multi-day packages.
Equipment Rental: Expect to pay around 1,200 RUB ($14 USD) for a full-day rental, including skis or a snowboard, boots, and poles.
Lessons: Ski schools offer beginner lessons starting at 3,000 RUB ($37 USD) per hour.
Pro Tips
Dress in layers—it’s chilly at the top but can warm up as you hit the lower runs.
Book your passes and rentals online in advance to skip the lines and snag better deals.
Even if you don’t ski, take the gondola to the top for stunning mountain views and a cozy café stop.
Don’t skip the après-ski scene—the mulled wine and live music in the village are worth staying for.
Visit a Dacha
Ever wondered how Russians unwind, recharge, and embrace the simple life? They chill in their dachas. A dacha is a summer house; and it’s also a lifestyle, a tradition, and a sanctuary for grilling, gardening, and good old-fashioned relaxation. These countryside retreats are where locals escape the hustle of city life, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the kind of peace that only fresh air and homegrown veggies can bring.
Expect cozy wooden houses and sprawling gardens bursting with fresh produce. At a dacha, life slows down. You’ll sip tea from a samovar, help harvest vegetables, or fire up the barbecue for a shashlik (grilled meat) feast. It’s a glimpse into a cherished part of Russian culture that’s all about family, tradition, and unwinding in style.
Highlights
Rustic Charm: Think quaint wooden cottages surrounded by lush gardens. Each dacha has its own personality, from colorful exteriors to quirky decor.
The Banya Experience: Many dachas have a banya—an authentic Russian sauna experience that will leave you feeling refreshed.
Homegrown Delights: Dachas are famous for their gardens, so don’t be surprised if you’re treated to cucumbers straight off the vine or freshly made berry jam.
Location & Getting There
Location: Dachas are typically located just outside major cities in Russia, often in rural or forested areas. If you’re near Moscow or St. Petersburg, you’re in luck—there are plenty of options.
Getting there: Most dachas are reachable by train, marshrutka (minibus), or car. A round trip from the city could cost around 300–500 RUB ($4–$7 USD), depending on the distance.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
Opening Hours: Dachas are private homes, so your visit will depend on your host’s availability. Plan ahead!
Best Time to Visit: Summer is prime dacha season. The gardens are in full bloom, and the weather is perfect for lounging outside and firing up the grill.
Price
Costs vary based on whether you’re renting a dacha or being hosted. Day visits can be free if you’re invited by a local, while rentals might set you back 2,000–5,000 RUB ($25–$65 USD) per day.
Pro Tips
Bring a small gift for your host—it’s a thoughtful gesture and part of Russian hospitality culture. Chocolate or a bottle of wine works wonders.
Dress comfortably and be ready to help out with gardening or prepping food.
If there’s a banya, don’t be shy. Just be prepared for some serious heat (and maybe a birch branch or two).
Paddleboard on the Volga River
If you’ve ever dreamed of gliding across calm waters with endless scenic views, paddleboarding on the Volga River is your dream come true. Stretching over 3,500 kilometers, the Volga is Europe’s longest river and a natural wonder steeped in history and beauty.
But the Volga isn’t just about postcard-worthy views—it’s a cultural lifeline. The river has been a witness to centuries of trade, folklore, and adventure. Paddleboarding here feels less like a workout and more like you’re connecting with the soul of Russia. Oh, and it’s also ridiculously fun. From solo zen moments to splashing around with friends, this is the perfect mix of nature and adventure.
Highlights
Endless Scenery: Paddle through tranquil waters while soaking in the stunning views of forests, historic towns, and rolling hills along the riverbanks.
Relaxation Meets Adventure: It’s as calming or as challenging as you make it. Paddle at your own pace or race your friends—either way, it’s a vibe.
Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for birds, fish, and other river critters—nature is definitely on full display here.
Location & Getting There
Location: The Volga spans across multiple cities, but popular paddleboarding spots include Yaroslavl, Kazan, and Volgograd.
Getting there: Major cities along the Volga are well-connected by trains, buses, and flights. Once you’re there, local rental shops are often located near riverfronts.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
Opening Hours: Paddleboarding rental shops generally operate from 8 AM to 7 PM, but check specific timings in each city.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn (May–September) offers the best weather and calm waters. Early mornings and evenings are ideal for fewer crowds and golden light.
Price: Rental costs range from 500–1,000 RUB ($5–$10 USD) per hour, depending on the city and equipment. Guided tours may cost a bit more.
Pro Tips
Wear quick-dry clothes or a swimsuit—you will get splashed.
Beginners should start close to the shore until you get the hang of balancing.
Bring a waterproof pouch for your phone—because if you fall, you’ll want to laugh about it later.
Stay hydrated and pack sunscreen—the Volga sun can be sneaky.
Learn Matryoshka Painting
Taking a Matryoshka (Russian doll) painting workshop is your chance to unleash your inner artist while diving into a beloved piece of Russian culture. These iconic nesting dolls are a symbol of family, tradition, and artistry, all rolled into one.
The process is surprisingly relaxing. You’ll start with blank wooden dolls and work your way through sketching, painting, and adding fine details. Don’t worry if you’re not Picasso—these workshops are designed for all skill levels, and instructors are there to guide you every step of the way.
By the end, you’ll have a personalized souvenir that’s part art, part keepsake, and all heart.
Highlights
Hands-On Creativity: Get your hands dirty (well, hopefully just colorful) as you paint your own set of Matryoshka dolls.
Cultural Connection: Learn the history and significance of these dolls while bringing your own design to life.
Perfect Souvenir: Forget store-bought souvenirs—this one is 100% you.
Location & Getting There
Location: Workshops are typically held in local art studios or cultural centers—check with your hotel or tour provider for the nearest option.
Getting there: Most locations are centrally located and walkable, but Bolt or Yandex can get you there for around 5–10 GEL ($1.70–$3.40 USD) if needed.
Price
Prices range from 50–100 GEL ($17–$34 USD) per person, including materials.
Pro Tips
Wear clothes you don’t mind getting paint on. It’s a creative process, after all.
Come with a design idea in mind, or let the instructor inspire you with traditional patterns.
Pack your finished dolls carefully—they’re durable but deserve some TLC for the journey home.
Sample Caviar and Vodka at a Riverside Restaurant in Astrakhan
Astrakhan is the capital of Russia’s caviar trade. Settle into one of the charming riverside restaurants, where the Volga River provides a picturesque backdrop to your decadent tasting adventure. This is the place where the world’s finest black gold—beluga, osetra, and sevruga caviar—is served with an obligatory shot (or two) of chilled vodka.
Astrakhan’s culinary roots run deep, and caviar isn’t just a delicacy here—it’s a way of life. The silky texture of the roe, bursting with a briny richness, is perfectly complemented by the sharp, clean burn of vodka. Pair it all with freshly baked blini or toast, and you’re practically dining like a czar.
Highlights
Caviar Heaven: From creamy beluga to nutty osetra, sample a range of the world’s finest caviar, harvested right from the Caspian region.
Vodka Pairing: Ice-cold vodka is a tradition. It perfectly cuts through the richness of the caviar and adds a celebratory flair.
Scenic Dining: Enjoy the serene views of the Volga River while you savor your gourmet spread.
Location & Getting There
Location: Riverside restaurants in Astrakhan, with popular spots like "Caviar House" or "Fish House" along the Volga River.
Getting there: Most of these restaurants are centrally located. A taxi or ride-share app costs about 150–200 RUB ($2–$3 USD) from anywhere in the city center.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
Opening Hours: Restaurants typically open from 12 PM to 11 PM, but it’s best to check with the specific venue.
Best Time to Visit: Early evenings for sunset views over the river and a relaxed, vibrant atmosphere.
Price: Caviar tasting starts at around 2,000 RUB ($25 USD) per serving, depending on the type and quantity. Vodka shots are usually about 300 RUB ($4 USD) each.
Pro Tips
Ask the staff for pairing suggestions—they know which vodka goes best with each type of caviar.
Don’t shy away from trying local specialties like sturgeon soup or smoked fish while you’re at it.
Go easy on the vodka if you plan to make it to dessert—astrakhan desserts like walnut pie are worth saving room for.
Explore the Underground Ice Caves of Kamchatka Peninsula
Hidden beneath layers of volcanic glaciers, these natural wonders are a mesmerizing blend of ice, light, and surreal beauty. The translucent ice walls glow with shades of blue, green, and even golden hues as sunlight filters through.
Formed by streams of hot water from volcanic activity carving through the ice, these caves are as much a work of fire as they are of frost. They’re constantly changing—what you see today might not exist tomorrow.
Highlights
Otherworldly Beauty: The glowing ice walls and intricate formations make you feel like you’ve entered a fantasy realm. Bring your camera—you’ll want to capture every angle.
Volcano Meets Ice: These caves are the result of a unique collision between volcanic heat and glacial ice, creating a one-of-a-kind natural phenomenon.
Seasonal Wonders: The caves shift and reshape with the seasons, so no two visits are ever the same.
Location & Getting There
Location: Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia. The ice caves are typically found near the Mutnovsky and Gorely volcanoes.
Getting there: Fly to Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, the region’s main hub. From there, hire a local guide or join a tour—it’s not a DIY-friendly trek. A 4x4 vehicle is usually required to navigate the rugged terrain, followed by a hike to reach the caves.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
Opening Hours: Open year-round, but the accessibility depends on weather conditions.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring or summer (May to August) is ideal, as the caves are more stable and illuminated by sunlight.
Price: Guided tours typically range from $100 to $300 USD per person, depending on the group size and the tour operator.
Pro Tips
Gear Up: Wear sturdy hiking boots and layer up—it’s icy and can get slippery.
Guides Are a Must: The caves can be unstable, and a knowledgeable guide ensures both safety and an enriching experience.
Pack Light: Bring essentials like water, snacks, and a high-quality camera or phone with good low-light capabilities.
Know Your Limits: Some sections can be narrow or steep, so a basic level of fitness is recommended.
Ride the Moscow Metro
The Moscow Metro is a full-blown underground art gallery. Dubbed the "palace for the people," this system is unlike any other metro in the world. Picture chandeliers, marble pillars, intricate mosaics, and jaw-dropping murals—because that’s exactly what you’ll find. Opened in 1935, the metro was built to showcase Soviet might and beauty, and it delivers on both counts.
Every station is a masterpiece with its own unique theme, from Lenin-inspired sculptures to murals celebrating workers, athletes, and space exploration. With over 200 stations (and counting), this is a cultural deep dive.
Highlights
Mayakovskaya Station: Widely considered the crown jewel of the metro, this station features sleek Art Deco designs and a dreamy ceiling filled with mosaics of Soviet utopias.
Komsomolskaya Station: If you’re into grandeur, this one’s got it all—chandeliers, golden mosaics, and larger-than-life arches. It feels like stepping into a palace.
Ploshchad Revolyutsii Station: Famous for its bronze sculptures of Soviet workers and soldiers. Pro tip: rub the nose of the bronze dog for good luck—it’s a local tradition.
Arbatskaya Station: A pastel-colored marvel that’s almost too pretty to be real.
Location & Getting There
Location: All over Moscow! With 14 lines and over 250 stations, the metro covers nearly every corner of the city.
Getting there: Hop on at any metro station—just look for the iconic red “M” signs. Central stations like Komsomolskaya, Arbatskaya, or Revolution Square are great starting points for exploring the most beautiful stops.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
Opening Hours: The metro runs from 5:30 AM to 1:00 AM daily.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late evening for quieter stations and uninterrupted photo ops. Midday is best for catching the hustle and bustle in all its chaotic glory.
Price: A single ride costs around 60 RUB ($0.80 USD), and day passes are available for unlimited rides.
Pro Tips
Download a metro map app—it makes navigating the Cyrillic station names a lot easier.
Spend some time station-hopping rather than focusing on getting from A to B. The beauty is in the journey.
Don’t rush. Many stations have hidden details that you’ll miss if you’re in a hurry.
Cruise the Canals of St. Petersburg
They don’t call St. Petersburg the “Venice of the North” for nothing. With its 300+ bridges and winding canals, this city practically begs to be explored by boat. A canal cruise is hands down one of the best ways to soak up the grandeur of St. Petersburg.
The canals were originally built in the 18th century as part of a transportation system for goods and people. Today, they’re less about hauling cargo and more about offering travellers an unforgettable sightseeing experience. The vibe is pure romance, with a dash of history and plenty of architectural eye candy.
Highlights
Architectural Bliss: From the Baroque beauty of the Winter Palace to the iconic spires of St. Isaac’s Cathedral, you’ll see St. Petersburg’s top landmarks without ever leaving your seat.
Romantic Vibes: Evening cruises take it up a notch with city lights sparkling on the water—perfect for couples or anyone who loves a bit of magic.
Bridges Galore: Glide under historic bridges, each with its own unique design and story, like the iconic Anichkov Bridge with its dramatic horse statues.
Location & Getting There
Location: Most canal cruises depart from popular spots like the Fontanka River embankment, Nevsky Prospekt, or the Griboyedov Canal near the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood.
Getting there: These spots are easily walkable if you’re in the city center. Otherwise, a Yandex taxi will get you there for 300–500 RUB ($4–$7 USD).
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
Opening Hours: Day cruises typically run from 10 AM to 10 PM, while night cruises operate from late spring to early summer.
Best Time to Visit: Summer is peak canal cruising season, but late evening cruises during the White Nights (June–July) are pure magic.
Price: Standard cruises cost around 1,000–2,000 RUB ($14–$28 USD), while private or themed cruises can go up to 5,000 RUB ($70 USD).
Pro Tips
Opt for an evening cruise during the White Nights for an unforgettable experience of endless twilight.
Dress in layers—it might get breezy on the water, especially during spring or fall.
Grab a hot tea or coffee on board (many boats sell them) to keep cozy while you take in the views.
If you’re into history, pick a guided tour with commentary for the inside scoop on what you’re seeing.
Feed Swans at Catherine Park
This dreamy escape in Tsarskoye Selo is packed with pristine lakes, lush greenery, and—you guessed it—graceful swans gliding across the water. This park, part of the UNESCO-listed Catherine Palace grounds, was designed in the 18th century for Russian royalty, and it shows. Every corner is picture-perfect, and the vibe is pure zen.
The real stars here are the swans that float around like the aristocracy of the animal kingdom, and feeding them is one of the park’s most beloved traditions. Bring along some bird-friendly snacks (no bread, please—it’s bad for them) and watch as they glide up to you, curious and majestic.
Highlights
Swan Spotting: These graceful creatures are all over the park’s lakes, and feeding them is the biggest highlight here.
Park Design: From manicured gardens to romantic bridges, the landscape architecture here is peak royal elegance.
Hidden Gems: Keep an eye out for the Marble Bridge and the Grotto Pavilion—two stunning spots for the best photo opps.
Location & Getting There
Location: Catherine Park, Tsarskoye Selo, Pushkin (25 km south of St. Petersburg).
Getting there: Take a train from St. Petersburg to Tsarskoye Selo station (about 30 minutes), then a short taxi or bus ride to the park. Taxis via Yandex or Bolt cost around 300–500 RUB ($4–$7 USD).
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
Opening Hours: Typically open from 7 AM to 9 PM, but seasonal variations may apply.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn, when the gardens are in full bloom and the swans are most active. Early mornings or weekdays are best if you want to skip the crowds.
Price
Entry to Catherine Park costs around 150–300 RUB ($2–$4 USD), depending on the season.
Pro Tips
Bring bird-safe snacks like grains, lettuce, or oats—swans will love you for it, and you’ll avoid harming them.
Wear comfy shoes; the park is massive, and you’ll want to explore every corner.
Pack a picnic! There are plenty of scenic spots to kick back and enjoy the views.
Hike in the Altai Mountains
Spanning Russia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, and China, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a natural masterpiece, featuring snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and lush valleys. Beyond the landscapes, the Altai region is steeped in history and mythology.
Known as the “Golden Mountains,” it’s considered the cradle of Turkic culture and is peppered with ancient petroglyphs (ancient rock carvings) and burial mounds that date back thousands of years.
Highlights
Belukha Mountain: The highest peak in Siberia, standing tall at 4,506 meters, is a magnet for experienced hikers and climbers.
Lake Teletskoye: A shimmering gem surrounded by dense forests, this lake is perfect for a post-hike chill session or even a boat ride.
Petroglyphs & History: Some trails lead to ancient rock carvings that give you a glimpse into the lives of those who roamed here centuries ago.
Wildlife Encounters: Keep your eyes peeled for ibex, snow leopards (if you’re lucky!), and rare birds that call these mountains home.
Location & Getting There
Location: The Altai Mountains span four countries, but the Russian Altai region is the most accessible. Base yourself in Gorno-Altaysk, the gateway to the mountains.
Getting there: Fly to Gorno-Altaysk from major Russian cities like Moscow or Novosibirsk. From there, hire a guide or hop in a jeep to reach trailheads.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
Opening Hours: Nature doesn’t close, but guided hikes typically start early morning.
Best Time to Visit: June to September is prime hiking season with clear skies and manageable temperatures. Winter is magical but more suited for skiing than hiking.
Price
Self-Guided Hikes: Free, but you’ll need permits for certain areas like the Belukha Nature Park (approximately 500–1,000 RUB or $7–$14 USD).
Guided Tours: Prices vary depending on the trail and length, but expect to pay 5,000–10,000 RUB ($70–$140 USD) for multi-day hikes.
Pro Tips
Gear Up: Sturdy hiking boots, layers, and a rain jacket are essentials.
Hire a Guide: The Altai can be rugged and remote, so having a local guide is not just smart but could also lead you to hidden gems.
Respect the Culture: Many areas are sacred to local communities, so stick to the trails and follow any guidelines.
Pack Snacks: You’ll be burning calories like crazy, so stock up on energy bars, nuts, and chocolate.
Russia—A Land of Contrasts and Captivation
Travellers often say Russia is a place that gets under your skin. It’s the ridiculousness of taking a shot of horseradish vodka and chasing it with pickles. It’s the quirkiness of spotting a Lenin statue next to a McDonald’s. It’s the awe of standing in Red Square, surrounded by history so thick you can practically feel it.
Russia doesn’t do things halfway. It’s extreme—in its weather, its architecture, its culture, and its ability to make you feel small and yet incredibly alive. Tourists usually land in the country expecting cold weather, stoic faces, and endless vodka shots (okay, the vodka part is true), but you’ll leave with stories of warmth—both from the people and the endless cups of tea they insist on sharing.
You come for the things to do, but stay for the stories you’ll collect—the kind you’ll be telling your friends long after you’ve left. Because if there’s one thing Russia guarantees, it’s a travel experience that’s impossible to forget.