Russia's Top 10 Must-Visit Destinations

Russia, the world's biggest country, is a destination of limitless exploration. From its vibrant history to its breathtakingly beautiful natural scenery, Russia is a destination that has something for all types of travellers. If you love history, culture, nature, or adventure, Russia's world-famous attractions are guaranteed to leave you amazed. If you are thinking of a visit, here's an overview of the top 10 places to see that should certainly be on your travel list and are the famous places in Russia.

1. Moscow

When Russians are thought of, the first city to spring to mind is Moscow, and for good reason. As the capital, it's a veritable treasure house of history, art, and culture. Its renowned landmarks include the breathtaking Red Square and the vibrantly hued St. Basil's Cathedral, both of which are emblems of Russian greatness. Yet there is more to Moscow than its legendary landmarks. You can explore the fascinating Kremlin, take in a ballet at the Bolshoi Theatre, or stroll through Gorky Park on a warm day is one of the most famous attractions in Russia. Moscow is brimming with energy, and it’s impossible not to be swept up in its vibrant pace.

Must-See Attractions:

• Red Square & St. Basil’s Cathedral
• Kremlin and Armoury Chamber
• Bolshoi Theatre

2. St. Petersburg

Generally referred to as Russia's "Venice of the North," St. Petersburg is a city of classical beauty, grand palaces, and fine art collections. Dubbed the cultural capital of Russia, it contains some of Russia's best-known tourist sites. The Hermitage Museum is one of the world's most famous art museums, featuring masterpieces from Da Vinci to Rembrandt. For architecture buffs, the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood is a stunner with its elaborate, colourful architecture. This city is one where every corner is filled with a story.

Must-See Attractions:

• The Hermitage Museum
• Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood
• Peter and Paul Fortress

3. Lake Baikal

For nature enthusiasts, Lake Baikal is one of the most stunning famous landmarks in Russia. Named the world's largest and deepest freshwater lake, Baikal's pure waters and rock formations create a nature enthusiast's paradise. It's an outdoorsman's dream with its lakeside hiking trails, fishing areas, and ice skating in winter. Baikal is ringed by special villages and wildlife such as the seldom-seen Baikal seal. Summer or winter, the peace of Lake Baikal will render you speechless.

Must-See Attractions:

• Listvyanka Village
• Olkhon Island
• Baikal Ice Festival

4. Sochi

Situated on the Black Sea, Sochi is Russia's most popular resort for sunshine, beaches, and outdoor activities. Famous as the venue for the 2014 Winter Olympics, Sochi is now Russia's top tourist destination. But aside from the new Olympic facilities, Sochi has rolling mountains, a subtropical climate, and a relaxed atmosphere. Whether skiing the Caucasus Mountains in winter or soaking up the sun on the beaches during summer, Sochi is a destination year-round for adventure and relaxation.

Must-See Sites:

• Krasnaya Polyana Ski Resort
• Sochi Arboretum
• Rosa Khutor Mountain Resort

5. Kazan

Kazan, the capital of the Republic of Tatarstan, is a lively city where Russian and Tatar cultures meet beautifully. It's Russia's most renowned location for history lovers and those wanting a distinctive cultural experience. Kazan Kremlin, a UNESCO World Heritage site, contains both an Orthodox Christian cathedral and a mosque—representing the city's cultural unity is one of the most famous attractions in Russia. Kazan's vibrant energy and rich heritage give it a sense of being a city that is both contemporary and full of history.

Must-See Attractions:

• Kazan Kremlin
• Kul Sharif Mosque
• Bauman Street

6. The Golden Ring

The Golden Ring is a group of old towns around Moscow that provide a glimpse into Russia's history. The towns are brimming with popular tourist destinations in Russia with great architecture and a more relaxed lifestyle. Suzdal, Vladimir, and Yaroslavl are studded with exquisite monasteries, wooden homes, and quaint riverbanks. A journey through the Golden Ring is like entering a living museum, where Russian history and customs are alive and kicking.

Top Attractions:

• Suzdal Kremlin
• Golden Gate of Vladimir
• St. John the Baptist Church in Yaroslavl

7. Trans-Siberian Railway

For those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, the Trans-Siberian Railway is an iconic way to explore Russia. Spanning over 9,000 kilometres, this train route crosses Russia from Moscow to Vladivostok, offering views of everything from snow-covered Siberian landscapes to lush forests and mountain ranges. Along the way, you’ll pass through some of the most famous places in Russia, such as Lake Baikal and Yekaterinburg, and experience the diverse regions of this vast country.

Must-Visit Places:

• Lake Baikal
• Yekaterinburg
• Ural Mountains

8. Kamchatka Peninsula

For adventurous souls who want to see the untamed side of Russia, the Kamchatka Peninsula is one of the popular places in Russia that has breathtaking scenery and wildlife. This remote area harbours some of the most active volcanoes in the world, hot geysers, and rocky coastlines. Kamchatka is also a prime destination for spotting brown bears, and it’s one of the best places to see the northern lights. Whether you’re trekking through volcanic fields or enjoying a hot spring, Kamchatka feels like the ultimate off-the-beaten-path destination.

Must-See Attractions:

• Valley of Geysers
• Klyuchevskaya Sopka Volcano
• Kuril Lake

9. Murmansk

For those who are attracted to the stark beauty of the Arctic, Murmansk is a special place situated north of the Arctic Circle. The port city boasts interesting Arctic landscapes and ranks among the top famous tourist places in Russia to see northern lights. Russian military history can be found in Murmansk, and the world-famous nuclear icebreaker, Lenin, lies berthed here. If you go in winter, Murmansk provides an abundance of activities such as dog sledging and snowmobiling.

Must-Visit Places:

• Alyosha Monument
• Murmansk Regional Museum
• Kola Bay

10. Altai Mountains

The Altai Mountains, deep in the south of Siberia, are a secret haven for nature enthusiasts. The area boasts breathtaking beauty, with blue lakes, snow-white peaks, and endless forests. The Altai is not just rich; the area is filled with ancient petroglyphs covering the terrain. Whether one takes a trek up to Belukha Mountain or sails along Lake Teletskoye, the Altai Mountains present a total immersion in Russia's untamed centre.

Must-See Attractions:

• Lake Teletskoye
• Belukha Mountain
• Altai Nature Reserve

Final Thoughts

From the majesty of Moscow and St. Petersburg to Kamchatka's untamed beauty and the Altai Mountains, Russia is a country that's full of surprises. Russia's popular tourist destinations in Russia provide a diverse range of experiences, from cultural icons to stunning natural wonders. Whether you're delving into history, gazing at landscapes, or looking for adventure, famous tourist places in Russia guarantee an unforgettable experience.

Before you go on your Russian adventure, remember to protect your trip with travel insurance. We provide complete travel protection that lets you travel in confidence wherever you are in Russia. Ready to go? Your Russian adventure is waiting!

FAQs

1. What is the best time to visit Russia?

   The ideal time to travel to Russia is in late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September-October) when it is warm.

2. Do I need a visa to enter Russia?

   Yes, the majority of tourists travelling to Russia need a visa, so apply early.

3. Is it safe to travel to Russia as a tourist?

   Yes, Russia is safe for tourists to visit, but you should take the trouble to learn about local customs and rules.