Top Travel Tips for Visiting Russia with iBestTravel

The world’s largest country beguiles and fascinates with its world-class art, epic landscapes, and multifaceted society. Moreover, perseverance and a sense of humor will enhance your travel experience. Here are some top tips for avoiding common pitfalls when visiting Russia.

DO apply for a visa early and register on arrival

Visas must be applied for in advance by all visitors. How you do that varies depending on your nationality and where in Russia you are traveling to. Travelers from many countries, including the UK and US, need to apply in-person at an embassy or consulate and provide biometric data. An e-visa may be an option for passport holders from 52 countries, which include many EU travelers, as well as those from China, India, Japan, Singapore, and some Middle Eastern countries. However, these are temporarily suspended due to COVID-19. For confirmation, consult your local Russian embassy or consulate for up-to-date information here.

It is advisable to initiate the visa application process at least a month before your trip. Consequently, consider using a specialist travel agency to assist with visas and transport bookings. Every visitor to Russia should have their visa registered within seven days of arrival, excluding weekends and public holidays. This obligation lies with your hotel, hostel, landlord, or friend if you’re staying in a private residence. Also, bear in mind that your visa entry and exit dates will adhere to the European calendar convention (day/month/year), avoiding any confusion that may lead to overstaying your visa.

DO check the events calendar

During major holidays, particularly the first week in January (between New Year’s Day and Orthodox Christmas) and the first week or two of May (around Labour Day and Victory Day), both Moscow and St Petersburg tend to empty out. However, both cities are festive during these times, with parades, concerts, and various events, albeit museums and institutions may have shortened hours or be closed altogether. The months from May to September are ideal for visiting St Petersburg, particularly mid-June when the White Nights festivities peak.

DO dress up for a night out

Enhance your chances of entrance at Moscow’s top clubs by making a sartorial effort. High heels and skirts for women and an all-black ensemble for men are recommended. Moreover, Russians generally make an effort when attending the theater or posh restaurants; therefore, you should do likewise to fit in.

DO learn the Cyrillic alphabet

Familiarizing yourself with the Cyrillic alphabet can significantly enhance your experience. It will aid in decoding street and metro signs, maps, timetables, and menus. While digital tools like the Russian Metro app and Google Translate streamline communication, brushing up beforehand can reduce frustration and endear you to the locals.

Rideshare options such as Taxovichkoff and Yandex Taxi have transformed the taxi landscape in Russia. Consequently, while it alleviates pressure from knowing key phrases for hailing taxis, it remains wise to learn essential phrases, particularly your hotel address or the intersection near your rental apartment.

DO expect to spend your money

Moscow is one of the most expensive cities worldwide, and St Petersburg is also a costly destination. It is common to experience wallet-thinning shocks at many restaurants and hotels. Moreover, as a foreign traveler, you often face higher fees, sometimes ten times the amount Russians pay at certain museums. If you’re a student, showing your ID can save you money at various institutions.

You can economize on dining in several ways. Many restaurants offer “business lunches,” which provide great value and are quite filling. Additionally, the trend for “anti-cafes” emerged in larger Russian cities, where patrons pay by the minute for coffee, snacks, and wi-fi time.

Food markets combining farmers markets and food halls are popular, often located in architecturally significant vintage buildings. These markets allow you to shop for ingredients to cook or sample global cuisines from various vendor stalls. Many food markets are less expensive than traditional sit-down restaurants and provide an opportunity to try a wider variety of local and international dishes.

DON’T ask for a mixer with your vodka

Few traditions in Russia are as sacrosanct as the drinking of vodka. Consequently, any foreign notions of mixing it with orange juice or tonic are anathema to your average Russian. If you require something to complement it, you can chase it with a lemon, a pickle, or a separate glass of water. Vodka is typically consumed in swift shots rather than sipped leisurely. Additionally, it is traditional and wise to eat a small something following each shot, so consider ordering some vodka snacks as well.

DON’T be disrespectful in a church

While working churches are open to everyone, it is vital to remain mindful not to disturb any devotions or offend local sensibilities. Although there is no formal face control, women should cover their heads and shoulders when entering a church. In some monasteries and churches, it is also required for women to wear skirts, which are often available at the entrance. Men should remove their hats in church and avoid wearing shorts.

DON’T take photos of government buildings

Be exceptionally cautious when photographing stations, official-looking buildings, and any military-security structures; if in doubt, avoid taking pictures altogether. Travelers have faced arrests and fines for such seemingly innocent behavior.

DON’T be surprised if you’re stopped by the police

Even though new laws were enacted in 2011 intended to improve the relationship between the police and the public, it is still prudent to carry copies of your passport, visa, and registration. Present these documents when an officer requests to see them. Additionally, special tourist police can often be found near major attractions such as Red Square, trained to assist travelers.

If you receive a fine, Russian authorities might expect an “unofficial payment” to expedite matters on the spot rather than processing issues at the police station later. Always ask for an official receipt in such situations and consider storing the phone number for your country’s embassy in case complications arise.

This article was originally published in August 2009 and was last updated in September 2021.