Why I love Russia

“A traveller's relationship with Russia is never an easy one, but over two decades of exploring this multifaceted country, I've yet to tire of it or be disappointed. It's a thrill to discover the latest on the dynamic and liberal art scene in the major cities and I particularly relish the serene countryside, with Lake Baikal a favourite location. Above all, it has been encounters and passionate conversations with...” Read More

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Simon Richmond
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Top experiences in Russia

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A guide to Moscow’s park life

In recent years, Moscow’s major urban parks have undergone a great transformation – these days they draw people of all ages and social groups, and some have become tourist attractions in their own right. Gone are the quiet spots for parents with their strollers and elderly people feeding the pigeons. Here’s our guide to Moscow’s vibrant green spaces and what they have to offer, from cycling, dance and yoga to art exhibitions and music festivals, exotic plants and wildlife and everything in between.

Gorky Park, Moscow’s most famous green space © Kira Tverskaya / Lonely Planet
Kira Tverskaya
Lonely Planet Writer

The heart of the Urals: exploring Yekaterinburg

Russia’s fourth-largest city doesn’t overstate its importance with glitz and glamour. Yekaterinburg, instead, sits back and lets its pedigree reel you in. Savvy businesspeople and investors have been coming here for a long time, but as of late holidaymakers are stopping by too, often to break up their Trans-Siberian journey and explore the Ural Mountains. Those wise enough to stay for a few days will discover a vibrant city with energy to match, and a nature playground a hop and a skip away.

Named after Peter the Great’s wife Catherine, the capital of the Ural region lies on the border of Europe and Asia and has long been a prosperous city. Yekaterinburg played a major role in trade between the east and west throughout the 1700s and 1800s, increasing its status and wealth; more recently, mining and industrial work has propelled the city into the limelight. And it keeps reaching for the stars: Yekaterinburg is one of the host cities for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, and the Russian government has injected billions of roubles to improve its infrastructure in preparation for the big event (including the upgrade of the Central Stadium and the construction of new metro stations).
Tatyana Leonov
Lonely Planet Writer

Best free things to do in St Petersburg

It’s well known that St Petersburg isn’t a cheap destination, and most of its entertainment comes with a price tag. But there are still many attractions you can enjoy for free. From St Petersburg’s elegant parks and sprawling flea markets to stunning Orthodox cathedrals and cutting-edge art galleries, there’s something for every penny-pinching traveller. Here’s our pick of the best free things to do in Russia’s imperial capital.

The spectacular Winter Palace, home of the State Hermitage Museum © Valeri Potapova / Shutterstock
Ksenia Elzes
Lonely Planet Writer
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Russia adventures

£2379 Small group tours

Trans-Mongolian Express

From the Great Wall of China to the Hermitage in St Petersburg, travel halfway around the world in three incredible weeks. Board one of the world’s great trains and ride the rails on this once-in-a-lifetime trip across the grassy steppes of Mongolia and through the taiga forests of Siberia. Share train carriages with locals, overnight in a Mongolian ger and in a cozy Russian homestay. Not only does this trip provide the perfect blend of comfortable accommodations and plenty of activities, but also free time to explore this fascinating region at your own pace.
£387.43 Small group tours

Ultimate 3-Day Tour of Moscow

The ultimate tour of Moscow can last 3 days with 7 hours each day, or 4 days with 5 hours each day.
£221.97 Sightseeing tours

2-Day Moscow City Tour

Embark on a 2 day Moscow city tour and learn about the most interesting facts about the city. Find out why Moscow is so different and discover the off the beaten path gems of Moscow. You will get acquainted with Russian foods and visit one of the royal estates, Kolomenskoe or Tsaritsino.
£290.58 Sightseeing tours

3 Days in Moscow

Get to know Moscow on this 3-day private sightseeing tour for a full 5-hours each day. Along with your professional guide, you will visit the Moscow Kremlin with its cathedrals, palaces (see from outside) and towers. See the Red Square, Bolshoi Theater, Tretyakov Gallery, Kolomenskoe or Tsaritsino park and other must-see attractions of Moscow. Browse through ancient Kitay Gorod and Zamoskvorechye districts. Have the best traditional Russian lunch in an authentic setting and spoil yourself at the best Russian chocolate bistro.
£220.16 Sightseeing tours

St. Petersburg Shore Excursion: Small-Group 2-Day Visa-Free Tour Including Boat Ride

Explore St. Petersburg with an English-speaking guide, on this two-day tour. Visit Peter and Paul's Fortress, St. Issac Cathedral, Church of our Saviour on the Spilled Blood, the Hermitage Museum and more. Ride on the canal, enjoy traditional Russian lunches and immerse yourself in this beautiful city on this small-group shore excursion for ships in port for 2 days.
£295.87 Small group tours

St Petersburg 3-Day Deluxe All-Inclusive Tour with Canal Boat Ride

This is the best way to spend 3 days in St. Petersburg! You will see the essential Highlights, from the galleries of the Hermitage to the fountains of Peterhof, and with added extras like a canal boat ride, a visit to the new Faberge Museum and the impressive collection of Impressionist paintings in the General Staff Building of the Hermitage. You will learn about the founding of St. Petersburg, its imperial past, the hardships of WWII, the Cold War period, and right up to modern day life.
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