The Ostankino Tower, standing at a height of 450 meters, is considered the tallest structure in Russia and one of the highest in the world. It is a renowned tourist attraction that draws numerous visitors to Russia. Not only is it a national television antenna, but it is also a symbol of the country. From the top of the Ostankino Tower, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Russia. Designed by architect Nikolai Nikitin in 1959, the tower was built with durable materials to ensure longevity. Additionally, the tower features a restaurant at 400 meters above the ground, where guests can savor delicious meals while taking in the stunning vistas of Russia.
Ostankino TowerLake Baikal is considered the deepest and oldest freshwater lake on Earth, holding approximately 20% of the world's unfrozen freshwater. It is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and is one of the most unique lakes globally. Located in Siberia, Lake Baikal is around 25 million years old and is surrounded by mountain ranges. Often referred to as the 'Jewel of Siberia,' it is home to over 1,700 species of flora and fauna. A popular resort and a must-visit tourist destination, Lake Baikal was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.
Lake BaikalThe Kremlin is located at the heart of Moscow, on the left bank of the Moskva River, atop Borovitsky Hill. Built in 1475, it quickly became a symbol of Russia. Historically, it served as the residence of Russian tsars and the seat of government. Today, it is the center of Russian political life, housing the offices of top government officials. The Kremlin is a historic fortress overlooking Red Square, consisting of the Kremlin Palace, Kremlin churches, the Kremlin walls, and Kremlin towers. It is open daily to visitors from around the world.
Kremlin PalaceMount Elbrus is located in the western part of the Caucasus Mountains in Russia. Once an active volcano, it has been dormant for about 2,000 years and is now capped with snow and ice. Standing at 5,642 meters, Elbrus is the highest peak in Europe. It has hosted high-level conferences and attracts experienced mountaineers as well as adventurous tourists from Russia. At the base of Elbrus, visitors can find mineral springs believed to have healing properties. There are also cable cars that take visitors up to 3,800 meters, offering easy access for climbers and stunning views of the mountain.
Mount ElbrusThe Nurulla Mosque is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a remarkable example of Islamic architecture. It features distinctive elements such as mausoleums, castles, and barracks, all of which adhere to the unique characteristics of Islamic design. Nurulla Mosque is a significant spiritual center for many devout Muslims. Every year, the mosque hosts various Islamic ceremonies, attracting large numbers of worshippers and tourists from around the world who come to observe and experience the religious and cultural significance of the site.
Nurulla Mosque6. Saint Isaac's Cathedral
Saint Isaac's Cathedral is not only the largest church in St. Petersburg but also one of the four largest domed structures in the world. Inside the cathedral, there are 3,000 mosaics made from tiny pieces of stone, which are some of the most intricate artworks within the church. Another remarkable feature is its dome, which is made of pure gold. It is estimated that around 100 kilograms of gold were used to create this striking dome. Due to its unique architecture and interior, Saint Isaac's Cathedral is considered a vast museum of art and architecture, attracting tourists eager to explore and learn more about its cultural significance.
Saint Isaac's CathedralThe Hermitage Museum is the largest museum in Russia and ranks as the third largest in the world, following the Louvre in France and the Vatican Museums in Italy. Founded in 1764, it houses over 3 million items, including art pieces from various periods and ancient artifacts from diverse cultures. The collections are spread across six historic buildings, including the Winter Palace, once home to the Russian emperors.
The Hermitage MuseumAlexandrovsky Garden is named after Emperor Alexander I, who played a key role in defeating enemy forces during the 1812 war. The garden is adorned with a variety of flowers and trees symbolizing the vitality and soul of Russia, including oaks, birches, willows, and linden trees. Visiting Alexandrovsky Garden on a trip to Russia allows you to walk through time and view cultural and historical landmarks that have withstood the test of Russia's turbulent history. Notable features include the Ruins – a structure built from remnants destroyed by Napoleon's army, and the Romanov Stone Monument.
Alexandrovsky GardenSt. Basil's Cathedral is considered one of the most iconic churches in the world. Located to the south of Red Square, it is known for its colorful onion-shaped domes. A visit to St. Basil’s is a must-see for travelers in Russia, as it is a stunning architectural masterpiece that carries an air of sorrow.
Legend has it that after completing the church, Tsar Ivan the Terrible had the architect blinded to ensure that no one else could build such a magnificent structure again. This famous landmark is rightfully considered a symbol of Moscow and continues to be praised by tourists from around the world.
St. Basil's CathedralAlthough only about 1 km long, Old Arbat Street is packed with charm and fascination. It serves as a window into the soul of the city, where vibrant street art and portraits are sold along the sidewalks, street performers create art, and pigeons glide down peacefully at the feet of tourists. In the fall, a stroll along Arbat offers a serene view of the Moscow River, bathed in golden sunlight, creating a scene as beautiful as a poem. It is a spot in Russia that lingers in your heart, evoking indescribable emotions.
Old Arbat StreetSochi is a charming town located on the Black Sea in the Krasnodar Krai region of southern Russia, not far from Abkhazia, Georgia to the north. Once a popular summer resort for Russians, it offers a variety of holiday accommodations. Sochi enjoys a subtropical climate with average daily temperatures in February falling below 10°C. During this time, a variety of activities are held here, and visitors can often see people relaxing on skateboards under palm trees after a match.
Attractions include the Michael Archangel Church, Archangel Column, Sochi Art Museum, and the botanical nursery.
Sochi12. Krenitsyn Volcano on Onekotan Island
Onekotan is an uninhabited volcanic island located near the northern tip of the Kuril Islands chain in the Sea of Okhotsk, northwest Pacific Ocean. Krenitsyn Volcano, situated within a lake at the center of the island, last erupted in the 1950s and has remained dormant ever since. To visit this remote location, visitors must obtain a permit from the government. While the process may be cumbersome, the breathtaking, picturesque scenery and the ancient natural charm make it a worthwhile experience.
Krenitsyn Volcano on Onekotan IslandThe Manpupuner rock formations are a breathtaking natural wonder and one of Russia's seven wonders. Located in the western Ural Mountains in the Troitsko-Pechorsky district of the Komi Republic, these seven towering rock pillars stand within the Pechoro-Ilychski Nature Reserve, between the Ilych and Pechora rivers. About 200 million years ago, towering mountains once stood in this spot. Over time, weathering from rain, snow, wind, frost, and heat wore down the landscape, shaping the formations we see today. Numerous legends surround Manpupuner, and the rocks were once considered sacred by the Mansi people, with climbing them believed to be a sinful act.
Manpupuner Rock FormationsSt. Petersburg, once the heart of the mighty Russian Empire, is now known as the 'Northern Capital.' It houses key government institutions like the Russian Constitutional Court and the President's Heraldry Council. Unlike Moscow, the historic architecture of the city center is primarily composed of 18th and 19th-century Baroque and Neoclassical structures, many of which have been preserved, despite some destruction during the Bolshevik era and the Siege of Leningrad. The oldest building is a wooden house built for Peter I in 1703, located by the Neva River near Trinity Square. Since 1991, the historic center of St. Petersburg has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site. The city is also home to the Hermitage, one of the largest and most renowned art museums in the world.
St. PetersburgSuzdal, a historic town in Russia, has been carefully preserved by the government, showcasing some of the finest examples of Russian architecture. The city is devoid of modern buildings, and most residents live in quaint wooden houses. From the colorful onion domes to the intricate cathedrals and monasteries, Suzdal stands as a magnificent testament to the former Soviet Union. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and tranquil atmosphere, Suzdal is a must-visit destination.
SuzdalKazan is a unique city in Russia where people from various religions and cultures coexist in harmony. Tourists visiting Kazan often come to explore the Kazan Kremlin, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Major attractions include the watchtower, museums, and the grand cathedral. A popular spot in Kazan is its pedestrian street, a vibrant area where visitors can stroll and soak in the city's cultural diversity.
KazanKarelia is a breathtaking land shaped by glaciers, stretching from the White Sea to the Gulf of Finland. It is home to two of Europe's largest lakes – Onega and Ladoga. With its expansive lakes and scenic hills, Karelia is one of nature's greatest masterpieces. The vast outdoors make this destination ideal for a wide range of activities, including rafting, hiking, biking, swimming, kayaking, and horseback riding.
KareliaThe Volga River, stretching 3,700 km, is a source of immense pride for Russia, being the longest river in the world. Beyond its size, it stands as a testament to the rise and fall of many communities along its banks. Historically, it played a vital role in Russia's trade with the rest of the world. A journey along this majestic river offers a glimpse into the vastness and grandeur of Russia's landscape.
Volga RiverThe Winter Palace is a prime example of Russian architectural grandeur, featuring 700 lavishly decorated rooms. Construction began in 1753, using imported marble from Italy and Finland, with over 2,300 workers dedicating themselves to the project for nine years. Despite the many changes in history, the palace's core architecture remains intact. The scale and magnificence of the Winter Palace required extensive resources, both in labor and finances. Today, it stands as a major tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors eager to explore the rich culture and history that it holds.
Winter PalaceRed Square is one of Russia's most iconic landmarks, a source of immense pride for the people, further enhanced by its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Located at the heart of Russia's beautiful capital, this historic square was established in the late 15th century. Over the years, it has witnessed numerous significant events in Russian and world history. Surrounding the square are several other famous structures, each with its own legend and historical significance.
Red SquareThe Pushkin Museum, a national museum of Russia, was founded in the early 19th century. Over the years, the museum has gone through several stages of development and today stands as a major venue for academic art exhibitions, attracting a large number of visitors. It is also home to an extensive collection of famous works by both Russian and international artists, including renowned paintings and sculptures of immense cultural and historical significance. The museum hosts numerous exhibitions annually, meeting the demands of art lovers. Additionally, the Pushkin Museum serves as a hub for art education, offering training for those passionate about the arts.
Pushkin Museum