Russia is a vast and captivating country, brimming with historic cities, breathtaking landscapes, and bucket-list-worthy adventures.
Whether you’re a history buff, an adrenaline junkie, or someone looking to soak in unparalleled natural beauty, Russia’s got something for you.
From vibrant metropolises to remote wilderness, here’s your ultimate guide to the 10 best places to visit in Russia.
1. Moscow’s Red Square
If there’s one place that screams “Welcome to Russia,” it’s Moscow’s Red Square.
This colossal square is the heart of the city and a symbol of Russia’s past and present.
Flanked by stunning landmarks like the Kremlin walls, Lenin’s Mausoleum, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and the State Historical Museum, this historic hub is a must-see.
The moment you step onto its cobblestone expanse, you’re surrounded by centuries of history.
Whether you’re snapping pictures of the iconic onion domes of St. Basil’s Cathedral or marveling at the grandeur of the Kremlin, every corner is steeped in fascinating stories.
At night, Red Square is even more magical, with golden lights illuminating its magnificent buildings.
Pro tip? Visit during winter when a fairytale-like Christmas market pops up, making the experience even more enchanting.
2. Lake Baikal
Nestled deep in Siberia, Lake Baikal isn’t just another pretty body of water—it’s the deepest, oldest, and most voluminous freshwater lake on Earth.
That’s right, this UNESCO-listed wonder holds about 20% of the world’s fresh water!
In summer, Baikal’s crystal-clear waters invite adventurers for kayaking, swimming, and hiking along its scenic trails.
But winter? That’s when it transforms into something straight out of a fantasy movie.
The frozen surface creates a glass-like ice sheet that people can skate on, and if you’re lucky, you’ll spot the Baikal seal, the world’s only freshwater seal.
The mix of rugged cliffs, dense forests, and tranquil shores makes Lake Baikal one of Russia’s most breathtaking natural escapes.
3. The Trans-Siberian Railway
Ever wanted to cross an entire continent on a train? The Trans-Siberian Railway is your chance! Spanning over 9,000 kilometers from Moscow to Vladivostok, this legendary journey is one of the world’s longest rail routes, offering an unforgettable ride through Russia’s diverse landscapes.
Think endless birch forests, sprawling steppes, remote villages, and snow-capped mountains—all from the comfort of your train window.
With stops in cities like Yekaterinburg, Irkutsk, and Ulan-Ude, you can hop off to explore unique cultures, historic sites, and delicious regional cuisine.
Whether you’re traveling first class or budget, this trip is an epic adventure that should be on every traveler’s list.
4. Saint Petersburg’s Hermitage Museum
Art lovers, prepare to be amazed. The Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg isn’t just any museum—it’s one of the largest and most prestigious in the world, housed in the gorgeous Winter Palace along the Neva River.
With over three million pieces of art, including works by Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt, and Michelangelo, the Hermitage is a treasure trove of human creativity.
The palace itself is an architectural masterpiece, dripping in opulence. You could spend days wandering its gilded halls and still not see everything.
If you love history, art, or just jaw-dropping beauty, this is your spot.
5. Kamchatka Peninsula
Welcome to one of Russia’s wildest frontiers—the Kamchatka Peninsula.
This remote region in the country’s Far East is a paradise for adventure seekers, offering an untamed world of volcanoes, hot springs, geysers, and untouched wilderness.
You can trek up active volcanoes, soak in natural hot springs, go white-water rafting, or even spot brown bears in their natural habitat.
The landscapes here feel like another planet, with steam rising from the ground and rivers cutting through vast valleys.
If you’re looking to get off the beaten path and experience nature at its rawest, Kamchatka is the place to be.
6. Sochi
Think Russia is all about cold weather? Think again! Sochi, sitting on the Black Sea coast, is a sunny resort town that became famous worldwide after hosting the 2014 Winter Olympics.
It’s where Russians go to unwind—whether that means hitting the beaches in summer or shredding ski slopes in winter.
From lush botanical gardens and scenic hiking trails in the Caucasus Mountains to vibrant nightlife and beachside cafés, Sochi offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. No wonder it’s one of Russia’s top vacation spots!
7. Kazan
Welcome to Kazan, Russia’s fascinating blend of East and West.
Known as the “Third Capital of Russia”, this city in Tatarstan showcases a beautiful mix of Russian and Tatar cultures, making it unlike anywhere else in the country.
Its star attraction? The Kazan Kremlin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a stunning mix of Orthodox churches and Islamic mosques.
The city’s food scene is also a must-try—don’t leave without tasting a chak-chak (sweet fried dough) or echpochmak (Tatar meat pie).
8. Altai Mountains
Nature lovers, get ready—the Altai Mountains are an untouched wonderland of snowy peaks, lush valleys, and shimmering lakes.
Located in Siberia, this region is perfect for hiking, horseback riding, and white-water rafting.
Home to indigenous cultures and mystical legends, the Altai region feels timeless and magical. If you’re craving pure, rugged nature, this is the ultimate escape.
9. Veliky Novgorod
Russia’s oldest city, Veliky Novgorod, is a history buff’s dream. Dating back over 1,000 years, this medieval town is home to Russia’s oldest Kremlin, historic monasteries, and stunning Orthodox cathedrals.
Less crowded than Moscow or Saint Petersburg, it’s a peaceful, culture-rich getaway where you can explore ancient churches, wander cobbled streets, and dive deep into Russia’s past.
10. Mount Elbrus
Calling all thrill-seekers! Mount Elbrus, standing tall in the Caucasus Mountains, is Europe’s highest peak at 18,510 feet.
Whether you’re an experienced mountaineer or a first-timer, there are guided tours that make reaching the summit an achievable feat.
Even if climbing isn’t your thing, the surrounding area offers breathtaking views, alpine meadows, and incredible hiking trails.
It’s a place that leaves you speechless—literally and figuratively.
Final Thoughts
Russia is packed with incredible destinations, from cultural powerhouses like Moscow and Saint Petersburg to remote natural wonders like Kamchatka and Baikal.
If you’re looking for a mix of adventure, history, and jaw-dropping landscapes, these 10 destinations are the perfect starting point.
So, which one’s going on your bucket list first?