Russian Federation Russia 2 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Exploring Moscow
Morning
- 9:00 AM: Start the day at Red Square, one of the most iconic squares in the world. Take a stroll around the square and admire the stunning architecture of St. Basil’s Cathedral, Lenin’s Mausoleum, and the Kremlin Wall.
- 10:00 AM: Visit the Tretyakov Gallery, a world-renowned museum showcasing Russian art from the 10th to the 20th centuries.
Afternoon
- 1:00 PM: Take a break for lunch at a traditional Russian restaurant, such as Café Pushkin or Ginza Project. Try classic Russian dishes like borscht, beef stroganoff, and blini.
- 2:30 PM: Explore the Moscow Metro, known for its ornate stations and efficient service. Take a ride on the Circle Line to see some of the most impressive stations.
Evening
- 6:00 PM: Enjoy a traditional Russian folk show at the Folk Graphic Theatre or take a stroll along the Moskva River Embankment, offering beautiful views of the city.
- 8:00 PM: Try some local cuisine at Lavkalavka, a trendy restaurant serving modern Russian dishes.
Things to Know
- Russia has a visa requirement for most nationalities. Check with the Russian Embassy or Consulate in your country for specific requirements and application procedures.
- Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions, especially during peak season (June to August).
- Russians are known for their hospitality, so don’t be afraid to ask locals for help or recommendations.
Transportation
- The best way to get around Moscow is by using the efficient Moscow Metro system. You can buy a single ticket or purchase a rechargeable Troika card.
- Alternatively, take a taxi or ride-hailing services like Gett or Yandex Taxi.
Day 2: Exploring St. Petersburg
Morning
- 9:00 AM: Take an early train from Moscow to St. Petersburg (approximately 4 hours).
- 1:00 PM: Check-in at your hotel and freshen up before exploring the city.
- 2:30 PM: Visit the Hermitage Museum, one of the largest and most impressive museums in the world, housing a vast collection of art and cultural artifacts.
Afternoon
- 4:30 PM: Take a stroll along the picturesque Nevsky Prospekt, lined with grand buildings, shops, and restaurants.
- 6:00 PM: Enjoy a scenic Canal River Cruise, offering a unique perspective on the city’s architecture and history.
Evening
- 8:00 PM: Experience St. Petersburg’s vibrant nightlife at New Holland Island, featuring trendy bars, restaurants, and clubs.
- 10:00 PM: End the day with a traditional Russian dinner at Gosti, serving classic dishes like beef stroganoff and borscht.
Things to Know
- St. Petersburg is often called the “Venice of the North” due to its numerous canals and waterways.
- Be prepared for variable weather, as St. Petersburg can be quite chilly and rainy even in summer.
- Many attractions offer audio guides or guided tours in English, but it’s still a good idea to learn some basic Russian phrases to show respect for the culture.
Transportation
- The best way to get around St. Petersburg is on foot or by using public transportation like buses, trams, and trolleybuses.
- Alternatively, take a taxi or ride-hailing services like Gett or Yandex Taxi.
Other Tips and Recommendations
- Learn some basic Russian phrases like “Здравствуйте” (Zdravstvuyte) - Hello, “Спасибо” (Spasibo) - Thank you, and “До свидания” (Do svidaniya) - Goodbye.
- Try to avoid traveling during peak season (June to August) if you can, as it can get very crowded and hot.
- Don’t drink tap water; instead, buy bottled water or try some local beverages like kvass or mors.
- Be respectful of Russian culture and traditions, especially when visiting churches or attending cultural events.