2 Weeks in Russia

What You Should Know Before Going On A Russia Tour

Russia tours often visit the two great cities on the European side of Russia: Moscow and surroundings (the ancient Golden Ring) and the beautiful Baltic city of St. Petersburg. It is often difficult to exchange for rubles (RUB) in your home country, so it is advised to take out 3,000-10,000 RUB at an ATM upon arrival.

If you can avoid using an ATM at an airport, you can generally cut down the price of withdrawal fees. Make sure to pack a 220 volt - 2 round European outlet power adapter and brush up on some basic Russian phrases (hello: privet, yes: da, no: nyet) to have an enjoyable and memorable trip!

Who Will Enjoy Russia Tours?

There is a little bit for everyone when it comes to Russia tours. Ranging from children and families to seasoned senior travelers, you can find over 100 tour options for every age group. Whether you are looking for a relaxing culturally enriched tour or a high-adventure tour, a solo trip or a group tour excursion, luxury to value lodging. No matter your interests or travel style you can find the perfect Russia tour for you on Stride.

Top Cities & Attractions in Russia

Russia is one of the largest countries in the world. Here are some top destinations to visit on your next tour.

1. Moscow - Moscow is one of the most popular cities in Russia for travelers. Existing as the nation’s capital, this cosmopolitan city is the home to many of Russia’s iconic sights including the Moscow Kremlin, the GUM department store, and St. Basil's Cathedral.

2. Red Square -  Located in Moscow, Russia, Red Square is the most famous and central square. The city’s most beautiful and historical buildings are found at Red Square, including the vibrant State History Museum, Lenin's Mausoleum, St Basil's Cathedral, the Moscow Kremlin, and the GUM department store.

3. Saint Petersburg -  A Russian port city on the Baltic Sea, Saint Petersburg is Russia’s second largest city after Moscow. With European influences, this cosmopolitan city is remarkable in architecture and culture.

4. Bering Strait - The Bering Strait is a narrow body of water that straddles the International Date Line between Russia and Alaska, U.S.

5. Irkutsk - Irkutsk is located is Siberia, Russia along the Angara River. This southeastern city is lined with beautiful churches and buildings and is located close to the Mongolian border.

6. Hermitage Museum - The State Hermitage Museum is located in Saint Petersburg. Home to over 3 million spectacular pieces art from around the world, this museum is a staple stop on a visit to the great city.

7. Kazan - Kazan is the capital and largest city of the Republic of Tatarstan, Russia. You can find many of Russia’s must-see sights including Kazan Kremlin, the Kul Sharif Mosque, and the Temple of All Religions in this southwestern Russian city.

8. Vladivostok - Overlooking Golden Horn Bay, Vladivostok is a major Pacific port city bordering with North Korea and China. Vladivostok is most famously known for being the final eastern stop of the Trans-Siberian Railway.

9. Trans-Siberian Railway - Running 9,289 kilometres (5,772 miles) in length, the Trans-Siberian Railway is the longest railway in the world. It is a fun and convenient way to travel across Russia from Moscow to far east Russia.

10. Peterhof Palace - Peterhof Palace is comprised of magnificent palaces, gardens, and fountains within Saint Petersburg. Also known as the “Russian Versailles,” Peterhof Palace is a must-see destination in Saint Petersburg.

What is The Weather Like in Russia?

A common misconception about the weather in Russia is that it is always cold. Don’t let the phrase “Russian Winter” mislead you. Given the large size of the country, weather can vary depending on region and time of year. Generally speaking, Russia follows a continental climate trend, where summers range from warm (18°C/64°F) to hot (30°C/86°F) and winters are cold (-6°C/22°F).

January tends to be the coldest month, with the northern regions experiencing the coldest, and longest winters, with snowfall and average temperatures of -40°C/-40°F. If you are looking for more mild Russian weather, a destination near the Baltic coast would be the location for you.

Common Russia Tour Lengths

The average Russia tour length is 13 days. A majority of these tours focus on the two most popular destinations in Russia: Moscow and St. Petersburg. If you are planning to tour in these regions, plan for at least a 1-2 week period.

Physical Level Requirements

If you are looking for an experiential tour that is relaxing and spectacular, Russia is the place for you. Most tours offered are in the very easy-moderate physical range. Don’t worry, if you are a traveler who enjoys a more strenuous tour, there are plenty of options for you! Hiking, trekking, biking, and expeditions are some of the many tours that would be a perfect fit for higher-intensity, active travels.

Is Russia Safe?

As of December, 2018 - a Level 2 Travel Advisorywas put into place by the United States Government. This advises "increased caution" traveling to Russia, as a result of terrorism, harassment, and the arbitrary enforcement of local laws.

But can I still travel to Russia? Yes! There are several precautions to take to ensure that you have a safe and fun trip to Russia. When traveling to Russia, it is advised to remain aware of your surroundings and stay alert at all times, especially in high density tourist destinations. Avoid traveling to The north Caucasus, including Chechnya and Mount Elbrus, and Crimea. Locate your country’s embassy address and contact information in advance, and tour in regions that are deemed safe to visit.

It is recommended to check your government websites for crime and safety reports for the area as well as sign up to receive updated information and alerts regarding safety conditions.For visitors from the US,you can enroll in STEP(Smart Traveler Enrollment Program). It is always a good idea to share your itinerary with family and friends prior to your trip.

Finally, we at Stride highly recommend booking a guided tour, rather than trying to navigate the foreign country yourself.

Travelers should take note that Russia has confirmed 2 cases of coronavirus as of March 2nd, 2020. 

Obtaining a Russia Travel Visa

Do you need one? Most tourists visiting Russia will need to obtain a Tourist Visa prior to their trip. Check your government website to see if you are from one of the few countries that do not require a Visa upon entry. There are few countries that are offered and E-Visa option, but most tourists will need to fill out their application and deliver it to a consulate in person or by mail, or go through a third-party agency for processing.

A standard Tourist Visa last for 30 days and can be either single-entry or double-entry. For US citizens, you can obtain a Tourist Visa application and find the most up-to-date rules and regulations for applying for a Russian Tourist Visa on the Embassy of the Russian Federation website. See the Visa list below for information on obtaining a Russian Visa in other countries.

Are there ways to travel to Russia without a Visa? Yes! There is a way to travel to Russia “Visa-free.” Designated tour companies operating transportation into Russia via a cruise ship or ferry allow travelers to visit for up to 72 hours while accompanied by a licensed tour operator.