Russia seems like such an obvious choice when it comes destinations for your getaway vacation, but I hardly hear anyone talk about visiting it.
No more! If you’ve been thinking about the best destination for your vacation, then I implore you to think about spending some time in Russia. Why? Well, allow me to tell you all about the activities, and how you can make the most out of your time there, AKA the best places to visit on your trip.
However, let’s discuss a couple things before you go to Russia.
Treat Russia Like Any Other Country
The number one reason people don’t want to visit Russia, as far as I’ve seen, is the fear that people have surrounding the country. Without any prior research of their own, travelers believe that Russia is a dangerous country where prison is always only one wrong move away.
Fortunately, you won’t get thrown in jail for taking the wrong step, as Russia is just like any other country. Yes, there are a few more “strict” rules, but nothing that should concern you as a tourist.
Keep in mind, however, that Russia runs a tight ship when it comes to their Internet, so if you’re going anytime soon, be sure to grab a Russian VPN—if you want to access most of your social media and websites, at least.
Learn the Cyrillic (Russian) Alphabet Before the Trip
You don’t need to know how to speak Russian, but you should at least know the basics of the Cyrillic alphabet. Sure, it doesn’t help your conversation with the locals, but you won’t be getting lost as often if you can read the road signs, you know?
Cyrillic is not hard; you can definitely learn the basics of it in a day or two.
Now, without further ado, let’s discuss the best places to visit on your trip to Russia!
The Kremlin
The Kremlin—the seat of the Russian government. A beautiful name that strikes elegance and fear into the hearts of people. No matter your views on the Russian government, there’s no denying that the Kremlin is one beautiful building, and one certainly worth the time visiting and snapping a few pictures.
The Red Square
The Red Square houses the President of Russia and looks good doing it. A city square located in the center of Moscow, the Red Square offers the chance to admire the beauty of the capital city and learn a bit of the country’s history.
If you want to see the square at its most magical, visit in winter. Not only will you be treated to winter wonderland scenery – the square is also beautifully illuminated with Christmas decorations including an imposing Christmas tree.
St Basil’s Cathedral
In 1561, history was made—the St Basil’s Cathedral was finished, and now the cathedral stands as the icon for the country.
Better yet, it’s on the Red Square, so you can kill two birds with one stone during your trip. No reason not to visit the cathedral!
The Bolshoi Theatre
Theatre may not be your preferred pastime, but there’s no denying the beauty and culture that the Bolshoi Theatre offers. And it would be a crime to be in Moscow and not watch a Swan Lake performance in the most famous ballet theatre in the world!
State Hermitage Museum
The Hermitage is the second largest museum in the world and as such it can easily take several days to fully explore. It was founded by Empress Catherine the Great, a keen art collector, in 1764 and houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures and antiquities.
Entrance is free of charge the third Thursday of every month for all visitors. If you’re a student, bring your student ID along and you’ll get in for free any day.
The Church Upon The Blood/Romanov Death Site
I know, not the most inviting name for a building, but it’s a church with a significant amount of history in it. Located in Yekaterinburg, the church was built to commemorate the location of the execution of the Romanov family.
