Discover the Enchantment and Diversity of Russia
Russia has let go of its turbulent past to embrace an exciting future, all the while enjoying a renewal of its rich history and cultural heritage. The land of the Tsars, Peter the Great and Ivan the Terrible is one of enormous diversity and vitality, coupled with the incredible Russian Revolution of 1917 that shook the world to its core.
Despite the visible effects of hardship and previous isolation from the rest of the world, travellers in Russia will encounter awe-inspiring monuments, great imperial cities and glittering cathedrals. Visitors will experience the magic of Tchaikovsky, the Kirov and Bolshoi Ballet, and marvel at priceless Russian religious icons and the unique style of onion-domed architecture.
While most westerners associate Russia with the great imperial centres of Moscow and beautiful St Petersburg, they are mere scratches on the surface of this vast and varied land. Straddling two continents and 11 time zones, the Russian Federation is the largest country on earth, nearly twice the size of the United States Within this impressive expanse lie natural wonders such as Lake Baikal, the deepest lake in the world; beautiful mountains, rivers and forests abundant with wildlife; and traditional villages scattered across the Siberian landscape.
Visitors exploring Russia won’t be disappointed: its impressive museums, overwhelming sense of history, culture and unspoilt wilderness will leave one with a deep yearning to uncover more and its relative isolation has ensured that Russia retains its sense of mystery and enchantment.
Key Facts
- Language:
- Russian is the official language. Some people speak English, French or German.
- Passport/Visa:
Valid visas in expired passports or other expired travel documents are not accepted. Visitors must carry ID at all times whilst in Russia. An Immigrant Card will be issued on board the aircraft or on arrival. All visitors staying for longer than seven working days must register with the Federal Migration Service upon arrival; if staying in a hotel, the hotel will arrange this, otherwise you can find the forms to fill out at a post office and post the forms to the Federal Migration Service. Anyone travelling on a tourist visa must hold vouchers from the hotel or travel agency. Passengers are required to hold return/onward tickets and documents required for the next destination. Exit permits are required on departure. These are usually issued with the visa, or can be obtained at hotels not less than two days before departure. Passports must be valid for period of intended stay. It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
The official currency is the Rouble (RUB), which is divided into 100 kopeks. Most major international credit cards are accepted in larger establishments. Currency can be changed at banks, bureaux de change and hotels, with ATMs widely available in major cities. It’s hard to get roubles outside Russia and travellers are advised to take currency in good condition to exchange once there.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. Round two-pin plugs are standard.
Overview
Russia holds a wealth of sightseeing opportunities across all nine of its time zones, incorporating the largest forestland and freshwater supply in the world. It’s little wonder that Russians refer to their country as the Motherland – it’s an undeniably bountiful place.
The State Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg captures ancient to modern Russian history in the Winter Palace, a former residence of the tsars. The Moscow Kremlin is a wonder to behold while Red Square, Moscow’s broad and bustling city square, is flanked by the famous Basil Cathedral. The Bolshoi Ballet Theatre, in neighbouring Theatre Square, is one of the most ornate theatres in the world and home to the world’s oldest and most successful ballet company.
But there is more to see by way of both history and natural splendour, with Russia’s immense forests becoming more dense and overwhelming the further east you go. The best way to take in the Russian countryside is via the Trans-Siberian Railway, winding southeast along the same route that once transported prisoners of Stalin’s purges to gulag labour camps. Those in search of natural beauty should also consider travelling down to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lake Baikal, the deepest and largest lake (by volume) in the world.
Climate in Russia
The main holiday season for Russians and foreigners is during the warmest months of July and August, but it also rains a lot during this time. The best times to visit are May and June or September and October, avoiding most of the crowds and the rain. Winters are very cold and bitter, especially in Siberia, but are also beautiful. February usually has the worst weather – it’s windy and extremely cold with very little snow.
Health Notes when travelling to Russia
Drinking water should be treated, with bottled water readily available. Local state medical facilities in cities outside the main urban hubs are of a low standard, and visitors are strongly advised to have full insurance for medical treatment and accidents should they require private care. Blood transfusions should not be performed in Russia, due to uncertainties concerning the blood supply. Essential medications and supplies may be limited.
Safety Notes when travelling to Russia
Though Russia is generally a safe country in which to travel, visitors should be vigilant and watch out for pickpockets, particularly on the metro and buses. Moreover, travellers must insist on seeing official identification from police officers. Political protests often end in violence and visitors are advised to avoid all street demonstrations and political gatherings.
Customs in Russia
Photography of anything to do with the military, strategic sites or the airport is prohibited. In Russian Orthodox churches, women are advised to wear skirts and cover their heads with a scarf. It’s a legal requirement for visitors to carry passports for identification, with copies not being sufficient. Russia has a poor LGBT rights record, and same-sex couples should exercise caution.
Duty Free in Russia
The following may be imported into Russia without customs duty: 200 cigarettes, 100 cigarillos, 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco products (over 18 years), 2 litres of alcohol (over 21 years), perfume for personal use, gifts up to the value of US$10,000. Tourists must complete a customs declaration form, to be retained until departure, allowing for the import of articles intended for personal use (including currency and valuables) which must be registered on the declaration form.
Additionally, 250g of caviar per person may be exported, with a receipt proving it was purchased at a store licensed to sell it to foreigners and a licence from the Ministry of Economic Development. Any items or artwork that might have historical value, like icons, maps, coins or paintings, have to be registered with the Ministry of Culture before departure, which usually involves a 100% customs duty fee.
Doing Business in Russia
Business in Russia is conducted in a fashion similar to Western countries, but with some subtle differences. Russians are business-minded so it’s not generally necessary to form personal relations with business colleagues, but developing a good network of resident associates is a good idea.
Dress is formal and conservative and on greeting a good firm handshake and direct eye contact indicates strength. Business cards are exchanged and it’s advisable to print a Cyrillic translation of your details on the alternate side. Business hours are generally from 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.
Communication in Russia
The international access code for Russia is +7. Hotels, cafes and restaurants offering free wifi are widely available. As international roaming costs can be high, purchasing a local prepaid SIM card can be a cheaper option.
Tipping in Russia
Hotel bills in the large Russian cities usually include a 10 to 15 percent service charge. If no service charge has been added, a tip of at least 10 percent is expected. City Guides and their drivers also expect a small tip and tipping in bars and nightclubs is common.
Passport/Visa Note
Valid visas in expired passports or other expired travel documents are not accepted. Visitors must carry ID at all times whilst in Russia. An Immigrant Card will be issued on board the aircraft or on arrival. All visitors staying for longer than seven working days must register with the Federal Migration Service upon arrival; if staying in a hotel, the hotel will arrange this, otherwise you can find the forms to fill out at a post office and post the forms to the Federal Migration Service. Anyone travelling on a tourist visa must hold vouchers from the hotel or travel agency. Passengers are required to hold return/onward tickets and documents required for the next destination. Exit permits are required on departure. These are usually issued with the visa, or can be obtained at hotels not less than two days before departure. Passports must be valid for period of intended stay. It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
United States citizens must have a passport valid on arrival. A visa is required.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian citizens must have a passport valid on arrival. A visa is required.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
British citizens must have a passport valid on arrival. A visa is required.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian citizens must have a passport valid on arrival. A visa is required.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish nationals require a passport valid on arrival. A visa is required.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand nationals require a passport valid on arrival. A visa is required.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South Africans must have a passport valid on arrival. No visa is required for a maximum of 90 days.
Tourist Offices
Russian Tourism Authority: +7 495 623 7978 or http://www.russia-travel.com
Russia Embassies
- In the United States:
Russian Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 939 8907.
- In Canada:
Russian Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 235 4341.
- In the United Kingdom:
Russian Embassy, London, United Kingdom: +44 20 7229 6412.
- In Australia:
Russian Embassy, Canberra, Australia: +61 2 6295 9033.
- In Ireland:
Russian Embassy, Dublin, Ireland: +353 1 492 2048.
- In New Zealand:
Russian Embassy, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 4 476 6113.
- In South Africa:
Russian Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 12 362 1337.
Foreign Embassies in Russia
- American Embassy
United States Embassy, Moscow: +7 495 728 5000.
- Canadian Embassy
Canadian Embassy, Moscow: +7 495 105 6000.
- British Embassy
British Embassy, Moscow: +7 495 956 7200.
- Australian Embassy
Australian Embassy, Moscow: +7 495 956 6070.
- Irish Embassy
Irish Embassy, Moscow: +7 495 937 5911.
- New Zealand Embassy
New Zealand Embassy, Moscow: +7 495 956 3579.
- South African Embassy
South African Embassy, Moscow: +7 495 540 1177.
Public Holidays Around the World
Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
