Russian Federation (Russia)-7-day-itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Russia

Day 1: Arrival in Moscow

Places to Visit:

  • Red Square (including Lenin’s Mausoleum and St. Basil’s Cathedral)
  • The Kremlin (optional guided tour)

Activities:

  • Explore the city’s metro system, known for its ornate stations
  • Try traditional Russian cuisine for dinner

Things to Know:

  • Moscow is a busy city, be prepared for crowds and long lines
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites
  • Learn some basic Russian phrases, such as “Здравствуйте” (hello) and “Спасибо” (thank you)

Day 2: Moscow

Places to Visit:

  • Tretyakov Gallery (world’s largest collection of Russian art)
  • Novodevichy Convent (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Activities:

  • Take a stroll along the Moskva River embankment
  • Visit the famous Izmailovo Market for souvenirs

Transportation:

  • Use the metro to get around the city (buy a rechargeable Troika card)
  • Consider purchasing a Moscow City Pass for discounts and perks

Day 3: Moscow to St. Petersburg

Transportation:

  • Take the high-speed Sapsan train from Moscow to St. Petersburg (approx. 4 hours)

Places to Visit:

  • The Hermitage Museum (one of the world’s largest and most famous museums)
  • Palace Square and the Winter Palace

Activities:

  • Explore the canals and ornate bridges of St. Petersburg
  • Enjoy a traditional Russian ballet performance at the Mariinsky Theatre

Day 4: St. Petersburg

Places to Visit:

  • Peterhof Palace (UNESCO World Heritage Site, optional guided tour)
  • Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood

Activities:

  • Take a hydrofoil ride along the Neva River
  • Visit the State Russian Museum for an insight into Russian art and culture

Things to Know:

  • St. Petersburg is known as the “Venice of the North” due to its many canals
  • Be prepared for long days, as the sun sets late in summer

Day 5: St. Petersburg

Places to Visit:

  • Catherine Palace (optional guided tour)
  • Pavlovsk Park and Palace (relaxing escape from the city)

Activities:

  • Take a cooking class to learn about Russian cuisine
  • Explore the trendy bars and restaurants of the Nevsky Prospekt

Day 6: St. Petersburg to Lake Baikal (optional)

Transportation:

  • Fly from St. Petersburg to Irkutsk (approx. 5 hours) and then take a bus or taxi to Listvyanka (approx. 1 hour)

Places to Visit:

  • Lake Baikal, the world’s largest and deepest freshwater lake
  • Listvyanka Village, with its traditional Siberian architecture

Activities:

  • Take a boat tour of the lake and surrounding villages
  • Try omul fish, a local specialty, at one of the many lakeside restaurants

Day 7: Departure from Irkutsk

Transportation:

  • Return to Irkutsk Airport for your departure flight

Things to Know:

  • Check with your airline for any travel restrictions or requirements
  • Consider purchasing travel insurance before your trip

Visa Requirements:

  • Citizens of most countries require a visa to enter Russia
  • Apply through the Russian Embassy or Consulate in your home country, or use a reputable visa service agency
  • Ensure you have at least 6 months’ validity on your passport

General Tips:

  • Learn some basic Russian phrases to show respect and appreciation for the culture
  • Be prepared for variable weather conditions, with warm clothing and waterproof gear
  • Respect local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting religious sites
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak holiday seasons (e.g. New Year’s) for smaller crowds and lower prices

Health and Safety:

  • Ensure you have all necessary vaccinations before traveling
  • Take precautions against pickpocketing and petty theft in tourist areas
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night or in crowded areas
  • Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical expenses

Enjoy your trip to Russia!