Today we explore must-visit places in Russia. Russia is an incredible nation filled with wonder and surprises; from its rich cultural history and breathtaking natural landscapes, to Moscow and the Ural Mountains or Lake Baikal; Russia offers something incredible for travelers of any kind to discover! There is so much more than meets the eye in Russia; don’t miss this amazing experience!
Below are 8 must-visit places in Russia that will take your breath away, from iconic Red Square to Kremlin and all that lies between. From beautiful Red Square and Kremlin squares, to breathtaking White Sea cliffs or golden Ring of cities – Russia offers something spectacular for everyone’s vacation needs – so get packing for an incredible journey across this diverse land.
Must-Visit Places In Russia:-
1. Moscow
Moscow is Russia’s capital city and an essential travel destination. Home to some of the finest museums and art galleries worldwide – visit State Tretyakov Gallery to see some of Russia’s finest paintings, or State Russian Museum which boasts over 1,500,000 items!
Discover the breathtaking architecture of GUM Department Store on Red Square and St Basil’s Cathedral with its colorful mosaics, both landmarks found near Red Square. Don’t miss the White Nights Festival (when the sun doesn’t set) held annually during summer months in Moscow; plus don’t forget the world-famous Ice Festival held annually as well! Don’t forget the Kremlin, home to centuries of Russian rule; visit Armoury Museum with over 100,000 pieces of exquisite jewelry, art, and weaponry; as well as Ivan the Great Bell Tower for its largest bell!
2. Ural Mountains
The Ural Mountains mark the boundary between Europe and Asia, located deep within Siberia’s heartland. A major feature in Russian history, Yekaterinburg – named after Catherine the Great by Romanovs – offers visitors stunning vistas. There’s even the Gulag-Archaic Museum to teach about harsh labor camp conditions!
Visit Chelyabinsk, Russia’s industrial hub, to see the world’s largest diamond, an artifact from the first Soviet nuclear reactor or even a meteorite which fell from the sky on February 2013. Trek through the breathtaking Ural Mountains for breathtaking vistas including Sparkling Waterfalls of Urals or Extremely Cold Lake of Urals.
3. Lake Baikal
Lake Baikal in southern Siberia is the world’s deepest lake, holding 20% of global fresh water supplies and is the oldest and most biologically diverse lake on Earth. Enjoy boat rides across its waters to see its stunning rock cliffs or visit its Museum of Natural History to gain more knowledge about wildlife or ethnographic Museum to uncover stories about indigenous tribes living along its shores.
Visit Irkutsk and Ulan-Ude for some of the finest Russian souvenirs such as ornate wooden carved dolls or traditional fur coats. Don’t miss a visit to Spasskaya Tower which provides picturesque views of Lake Baikal or Ilimskiy Monastery which houses one of the country’s oldest churches – both offer unforgettable views!
4. White Sea
White Sea The White Sea lies to the northwest of Russia. Explore Arkhangelsk, one of the largest cities within the Arctic Circle and gateway to its waters. Visit places such as Church of St Dmitry, Arctic Inter-trading Museum or Russian Polar Explorers House to gain more knowledge about its rich history.
Visit the White Sea Biological Station to admire an exceptional piece of architecture, the world’s southernmost freshwater aquarium, or learn about fisheries in your region at either Russian Herring Biological Station or Solovetskiy Islands which are both UNESCO World Heritage sites and home to renowned monasteries such as Solovetsky Monastery.
5. Sochi
Are you searching for the perfect Russian destination? Sochi should be at the top of your list. Located along the Black Sea, Sochi is known for its breathtaking beaches, magnificent mountains and vibrant culture – everything imaginable awaits in Sochi from relaxation beach vacations to active adventure trips. From sunbathing on its idyllic beaches to exploring Caucasus Mountains’ incredible mountainous terrain with Mount Elbrus as Russia’s highest peak; Sochi offers it all.
Once you’ve explored Sochi’s outdoor beauty, experience its lively culture. Start at the Sochi Art Museum where you’ll be inspired by beautiful works of art; then get lost among its winding streets where there are restaurants, cafes, and shops galore; don’t miss the breathtaking Black Sea views from Sochi Sea Port either – Sochi has something for everyone.
6. Golden Ring Of Cities
Golden Ring of Cities The Golden Ring of Cities is an iconic route encompassing some of Russia’s oldest and most stunning cities. Visit Vladimir, Russia’s third oldest city, to view its UNESCO-listed Golden Gates or Assumption Cathedral; while Suzdal, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers spectacular landscapes to be enjoyed along with beautiful architecture in Cathedral of Transfiguration – two spots not to be missed!
Visit Ivanovo, the country’s silk capital, to view its Cathedral of the Intercession – listed as a World Heritage site by UNESCO; then venture nearby Kineshma to witness Raskolnikov House or Pereslavl-Zalessky with its Russian Fairytale Town or Yaroslavl – both listed by UNESCO – before arriving in Vladimir – known for its icon painting workshops that employ traditional methods to produce masterpieces.
7. Volga River
Europe’s longest river, the Volga runs through Russia from East to West. Explore ancient Veliky Novgorod with its UNESCO-listed St. Sophia Cathedral or Ivan the Great Bell Tower as you traverse this river through Russia’s heartland. Also make time to visit Mikhailovskoe Cemetery or Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery along this stretch.
Explore Kazan, Russia’s fourth-largest city and home to its own Kremlin listed by UNESCO; also stop by Kul-Sharif Mosque or Zolotoy Bridge while in Nizhny Novgorod the Archbishop’s Residence or Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin are not to be missed!
8. Kamchatka Peninsula
The Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia’s Far East lies along the Pacific Ocean. Visit Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, its capital city, to take in Avacha Bay or Kronotsky Nature Reserve or Valley of Geysers or Esso Highlands on your visit – they all feature on the World Heritage list!
Explore Yelizovo, Eurasia’s northernmost settlement, to witness Klyuchevskaya Sopka Volcano – the world’s highest active volcano – or Kronotsky Biosphere Reserve, Russia’s only World Heritage site located in the Far East. Afterward, head out to nearby Ozernovsk for its UNESCO-listed Sredny Stolovy Cemetery or Ust-Kamchatsk (Russia’s oldest wooden city).
Conclusion
Russia offers something for everyone. From Moscow’s bustling metropolis to Kamchatka Peninsula’s remote beauty, there is so much to see and do. Explore St Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow and Kremlin as well as Lake Baikal natural wonders as well as UNESCO-listed towns of Golden Ring of Cities for inspiration and pleasure.
Visit the Ural Mountains and White Sea, travel down the Volga River into Kamchatka or head north along its length; whatever your choice, you will be amazed by Russia’s beauty and cultural riches! Don’t wait – obtain your Russian visa now and set off on an incredible adventure to discover its best features!
Also read:- 8 Must-Visit Places In Finland To Make The Most Of Your Trip!