A holiday to Russia offers a unique blend of history, culture, and adventure. While exploring iconic landmarks like the Kremlin and Red Square is a must, there are also plenty of cool and unusual things to do in Russia that will make your vacation unforgettable. Here are some exciting options:
Location: St. Petersburg
Timings: 10:30 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 5:00 p.m. (timings may vary)
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of St. Petersburg is by taking a canal tour. With over 800 bridges spanning 300 kilometers of artificial canals, the city offers a picturesque view of its waterways. Summer is the perfect time to embark on this canal adventure.
Location: Ploshchad’ Kuybysheva, 1, Samara, Samarskaya oblast’, Russia, 443010
Timings: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Indulge in the magic of Russian culture by attending a performance at the Samara Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre.
From enchanting decorations to captivating ballet and symphony orchestras, this theatre offers an unforgettable evening steeped in Russia's folklore.
Location: Red Valley
Timings: Sunrise till sunset
For adventure enthusiasts, the Red Valley is a skiing and snowboarding paradise. Host to the 2014 Winter Olympics, this destination boasts vast and diverse slopes, making it a top spot for winter sports in Russia.
Location: Kubinka, Moscow Oblast, Russia
Timings: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Experience the unusual by visiting the 'Military Disneyland' in Moscow. Here, you can dine on army rations, handle grenade launchers, and inspect a surface-to-air missile. Don't forget to grab some Vladimir Putin accessories as unique souvenirs.
While Russia has famous mainstream museums, there are also offbeat hidden gems to explore. The Museum of Soviet Arcade Games allows you to play vintage games with Soviet-era kopek coins. Additionally, the Museum of Hygiene in St. Petersburg provides intriguing insights into disease prevention and cleanliness.
Location: Pyatnickaya St, 3/4/1, Moscow 115035, Russia
Timings: NA
Experience a unique dining concept at Moscow's Twin Stars Diner, where the entire staff consists of identical twins. These twins wear identical clothing and perform all the roles, creating a surreal atmosphere inspired by the 1964 Soviet film 'Kingdom of Crooked Mirrors.'
Location: Zvyozdny gorodok, Moscow Oblast, Russia, 141160
Timings: 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 a.m.
Star City, located on the outskirts of Moscow, is a cosmonaut training center. Here, you can participate in simulated rocket launches or experience zero-gravity flights. It's a thrilling opportunity to dive into the past and future of space exploration.
Location: Street along the left bank of the Volga river in Central Samara, Russia
Timings: NA
Enjoy a relaxing day along the Volga River at the Samara Embankment. Whether you prefer sunbathing, exercise, or a boat cruise, this scenic spot offers a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the beautiful Russian outdoors.
9. Watch Moscow Cat Theatre
Location: Kutuzovsky Ave, 25, Moscow, Russia, 121151
Timings: NA
Experience a one-of-a-kind circus performance at the Moscow Cat Theatre, where over a hundred cat "actors" join human performers to showcase astonishing tricks such as balancing on balls and walking tightropes. This show is a beloved and quirky attraction in Russia.
Location: River Vuoksi
Timings: NA
For a dose of extreme fun, join the Bubble Baba Challenge. For over a decade, participants have braved the rapids of Russia's Vuoksi River using inflatablesex dolls as flotation devices. Competitors dash into the river, vying to be the fastest. Note that participants must be 16 years or older to take part in this offbeat spectacle.
Location: Pushkin, Sankt-Peterburg
Timings: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (timings may vary)
Explore the magnificent Amber Room, housed within the Catherine Palace. Originally installed in Berlin as a gift to Peter the Great, this chamber has been meticulously renovated over time. Adorned with gold leaf and mirror panels, the Amber Room is an astonishing work of art with a fascinating history.
Location: Dargavs, 363128, Russia
Timings: Open throughout the day
Discover the enigmatic Dargavs Village, often referred to as the 'city of the dead.' This ancient village is home to an eerie cemetery where people were buried with their belongings. With over 100 ancient stone crypts, Dargavs is shrouded in myths and folklore. According to locals, a plague in the 18th century led to a significant number of deaths in the area.
Location: Red Square, Moscow, Russia, 109012
Timings: Open throughout the day
One of Russia's top tourist attractions is Lenin's Mausoleum, located in Moscow. It houses the embalmed body of Vladimir Lenin within a striking red granite and black labradorite step-pyramid. Discover the intriguing history of this iconic site, including how it became a permanent resting place for Lenin after his death in 1929.
Location: Yekaterinburg, Russia
Timings: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Witness the mesmerizing patterns found 650 feet below ground in Yekaterinburg's psychedelic salt mines. These intricate designs emerge over time due to the layers of the mineral carnallite, creating stunning yellow, white, red, and blue swirls. Visiting these salt mines promises a unique and unforgettable experience.
Location: Bolotnaya Ploshchad’, 10, Moscow, Russia
Timings: Open throughout the day
Explore the thought-provoking sculpture titled 'Children Are the Victims of Adult Vices' by Russian artist Mihail Chemiakin. This sculpture depicts two innocent children surrounded by 13 sinister statues symbolizing various societal issues such as child labor, alcoholism, prostitution, and more. It's a thought-provoking masterpiece that sparks contemplation.
Location: Kizhi Island, Russia
Timings: Open throughout the day
Take a peaceful stroll on Kizhi Island, known for its iconic 18th-century Russian architecture. This serene place attracts nature lovers and history enthusiasts with its significant features. Explore two large wooden churches, showcasing an architectural style once popular in Russia.
Location: Kazan, Russia
Timings: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Visit the colorful "Temple of All Religions" in Kazan, which features a unique blend of architectural elements representing major religions worldwide. Established in 1992 as a symbol of religious unity by Russian philanthropist Ildar Khanov, this temple promotes brotherhood and harmony.
Location: Moscow, Russia
Timings: NA
Pay tribute to Laika, the first animal to orbit Earth from space. The Laika Monument, built in 2008 near a Moscow military facility, honors this courageous Russian mutt. Laika was equipped with a space suit before her historic journey in 1957, making this monument a heartwarming tribute to man's best friend.
Location: Golosov Ravine, Russia
Timings: NA
Enjoy peaceful strolls with loved ones at Golosov Ravine, formerly a royal estate transformed into a public wilderness. Interact with locals who can share captivating stories about this serene place.
Location: Park Aleksandrovskiy, 1, St Petersburg, Russia, 197198
Timings: 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
For a family-friendly outing, head to the Leningrad Zoo in the heart of St. Petersburg. As the second-largest zoo in Russia, it houses approximately 2,000 animals from around 410 species. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast or want to learn more about animals, the Leningrad Zoo offers an enjoyable experience for all.
Location: Various locations in St. Petersburg
Timings: 1:25 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (depending on the bridge)
Experience the unique spectacle of drawbridges opening in St. Petersburg. The city is known for its numerous awe-inspiring bridges that provide captivating vistas during the nighttime. Some of the most famous bridges to watch include the Annunciation Bridge, the Palace Bridge, the Trinity Bridge, and the Foundry Bridge.
Russia's blend of tradition and innovation offers a plethora of exciting and unusual activities for every traveler. Whether you're interested in history, adventure, or culture, these unique experiences will make your trip to Russia unforgettable.
What is the capital of Russia?
The capital of Russia is Moscow.
What is the official language of Russia?
The official language of Russia is Russian.
What currency is used in Russia?
The currency used in Russia is the Russian Ruble (RUB).
How big is Russia?
Russia is the largest country in the world by land area, covering approximately 17.1 million square kilometers.
What is the population of Russia?
As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, the population of Russia was estimated to be around 145 million people. Please note that population figures can change over time.
What are some famous tourist attractions in Russia?
Some famous tourist attractions in Russia include the Red Square and the Kremlin in Moscow, the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, Lake Baikal, the Trans-Siberian Railway, and the historic city of Kazan.
Is Russia in Europe or Asia?
Russia spans both Europe and Asia, making it a transcontinental country. The majority of its landmass lies in Asia, while the western part of the country, including Moscow and St. Petersburg, is in Europe.
What is the Trans-Siberian Railway?
The Trans-Siberian Railway is a network of railways that spans the width of Russia, connecting Moscow in the west to Vladivostok in the east. It is one of the longest railway lines in the world and offers a scenic journey across Russia's diverse landscapes.
Do I need a visa to visit Russia?
Many travelers to Russia require a visa to enter the country. Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. It's advisable to check with the nearest Russian embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa information.
What is the climate like in Russia?
Russia has a diverse climate due to its vast size. It can range from Arctic conditions in the north to subtropical climates in the south. Moscow and St. Petersburg have a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers.
Is it safe to travel in Russia?
Generally, Russia is considered a safe country for tourists. However, like any other destination, it's important to take standard safety precautions, be aware of your surroundings, and follow local guidelines and regulations.
What are some traditional Russian dishes?
Traditional Russian dishes include borscht (beet soup), pelmeni (dumplings), blini (pancakes), beef stroganoff, and various types of smoked and cured fish. Russian cuisine is known for its hearty and flavorful dishes.
Step1: Complete the online application by providing your passport details.
Step2: Submit payment online using a credit card.
Step3: Monitor your email for confirmation of payment and receipt of your eVisa, which will be sent electronically.
