UK
Vast, Vivid & Full of Mystery
From imperial palaces and golden-domed cathedrals to Siberian wilderness and literary legends, Russia is a land of epic scale and cultural depth. It’s a destination for UK travellers drawn to grandeur, history, and adventure.
Air Travel
Flights from London to Moscow or St. Petersburg take around 4–5 hours. Domestic flights are essential for reaching distant regions like Siberia, Kazan, or Vladivostok.
Airlines
Aeroflot, Turkish Airlines, Emirates, and Qatar Airways operate international routes. Domestic travel is covered by Aeroflot, S7 Airlines, and Pobeda.
Russia
Vast, Vivid & Full of Mystery
Landmark
Travel Season
- June–August: Warm and lively, ideal for sightseeing and festivals
- May & September: Mild shoulder seasons with fewer crowds
- December–February: Snowy wonderland, perfect for winter lovers
Currency & Money Tips
- Currency: Russian Ruble (RUB)
- Cash is widely used; cards accepted in major cities
- ATMs available in urban areas; exchange rates better at banks
- Foreign cards may face restrictions—bring backup cash
Connectivity
- Wi-Fi available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces
- Local SIM cards (MTS, Beeline, MegaFon) available at airports
- Yandex Maps is more reliable than Google Maps in Russia
Getting Around
- Trains are scenic and reliable—book long-distance routes in advance
- Metro systems in Moscow and St. Petersburg are efficient and ornate
- Domestic flights for vast distances
- Taxis and ride-hailing apps (Yandex Go) are widely used
Time Zone
- Russia spans 11 time zones. Moscow and St. Petersburg operate on Moscow Standard Time (MSK) – GMT+3
Etiquette & Culture
- Greet with a firm handshake and eye contact
- Respect Orthodox customs in churches
- Tipping is appreciated (10% in restaurants)
- English is limited outside tourist zones—basic Russian helps
Top Destinations
- Moscow: Political power, Orthodox cathedrals, and nightlife
- St. Petersburg: Art, canals, and imperial elegance
- Kazan: Tatar culture and Kremlin views
- Sochi: Black Sea beaches and mountain escapes
- Lake Baikal: Nature, hiking, and local villages
- Vladivostok: Pacific port and end of the Trans-Siberian
fastfood Food & Drink
- Must-try: Borscht, Pelmeni (dumplings), Beef Stroganoff, Blini (pancakes)
- Vodka is iconic; try local kvass and mors drinks
- Tap water isn’t recommended—stick to bottled
- Cafés and stolovayas (canteens) offer hearty meals
personal_bag What to Pack
- Warm layers for winter; light clothing for summer
- Smart casual for dining and museums
- Power adapter (Type C/F plugs)
- Travel phrasebook or translation app
Best Time to Visit
- June–August: Warm and festive, ideal for city breaks
- May & September: Mild and less crowded
- December–February: Magical snowscapes and winter charm
health_and_safety Safety & Health
- Check UK travel advice before visiting
- Emergency number: 112 (police, ambulance, fire)
- Travel insurance is essential
- Vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, routine UK jabs recommended