Russia Visit Guide: Practical Tips for First‑Time Travelers

Thinking about hopping on a plane to Russia? You’re not alone – the country’s mix of history, architecture, and wilderness pulls a lot of wanderers. Before you book your ticket, let’s break down the basics you need to feel confident and enjoy every moment.

Visa, Money & Connectivity

The first hurdle is the visa. Most visitors need a tourist visa, which you can get through an online invitation and a local Russian consulate. Give yourself at least two weeks for paperwork; rushing often leads to mistakes. When you land, the ruble is the currency. Exchange a small amount at the airport for immediate needs, then use ATMs in city centres for the best rates. Credit cards work in hotels and bigger stores, but keep cash handy for markets or smaller towns.

Staying connected is easier than you think. Buy a local SIM card from providers like MTS, Beeline, or MegaFon. It costs around 300‑500 RUB for a gigabyte of data, enough for maps, translation apps, and checking train schedules on the go.

Getting Around: Trains, Metro, and Flights

Russia’s size makes travel an adventure in itself. The high‑speed Sapsan train zips between Moscow and St. Petersburg in about four hours – perfect for a quick city‑hop. For longer distances, the Russian Railways network offers sleeper cabins that are surprisingly comfortable and cheap if you book in advance. Domestic flights are also affordable; airlines like Aeroflot and S7 connect major hubs with smaller cities such as Kazan or Sochi.

If you’re staying in a big city, the metro is a must‑try. Moscow’s stations are practically art galleries, and the trains run every few minutes. Buy a Troika card for easy tap‑in, tap‑out travel across buses, trams, and metro lines.

Now that logistics are sorted, let’s talk about what to actually see.

Must‑See Highlights

In Moscow, the Kremlin, Red Square, and St. Basil’s Cathedral are non‑negotiable. Arriving early in the morning helps you avoid crowds and snap clearer photos. For a modern vibe, head to the Gorky Park area – you’ll find cafés, street art, and bike rentals.

St. Petersburg feels like a different country. The Hermitage Museum alone could take a full day, but don’t miss the Church of the Savior on Blood and a boat ride through the canals. If you love literature, a stroll along the Nevsky Prospekt while sipping tea at a historic café is pure bliss.

Beyond the cities, the Golden Ring towns (like Vladimir and Suzdal) showcase wooden churches and traditional Russian life. For nature lovers, Lake Baikal in Siberia offers crystalline water, hiking, and the chance to see the famous “ice bubbles” in winter.

When you’re out exploring, keep a few cultural tips in mind: greet with a firm handshake, remove shoes when entering someone’s home, and learn a few basic Russian phrases – a simple "Спасибо" (thank you) goes a long way.

Lastly, pack smart. The weather can swing dramatically, especially if you travel between Moscow’s winters and Sochi’s subtropical summer. Layered clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and a portable charger are your best friends.

With these pointers, your Russia visit can move from “scary” to “awesome” in no time. Ready to book that flight? The adventure awaits!