15 Things to Do in Russia – Palaces, Rail Journeys, & Arctic Adventures

From the White Nights of St. Petersburg to the untouched wilderness of Siberia, you will be astonished to find the long list of things to do and experience here, which will transform you from within.

Dive into this comprehensive blog and find out the best things to do in Russia.

15 Top Things to Do in Russia – for an Immersive Russian Experience

To be honest, squeezing the top things to do in Russia to just 15 is not justified because this country is huge and vast are the opportunities to explore and experience it. This is a country where you will find grand palaces, stunning natural wonders, compelling history of ancient cities, and a unique culture. Russia makes sure it touches the heart of every kind of traveler—be it a history lover or adventure enthusiast.

For ease of understanding and reading, we have narrowed down the best things to do in Russia seasonally.

Best Things to Do in Russia by Season

Whether it’s the scenic Trans-Siberian Railway ride or the Northern Lights in Murmansk, Russia offers unique experiences throughout the year. Each season brings out a different beauty of Russia, and that’s why there are various things to do in Russia depending on the season. While you are planning for a visit to Russia, you must know about the seasonal opportunities there so that you can make the most of your Russia Tour Packages.

Best Things to Do in Russia – Summer Special

Want to know the best time to visit Russia? Summer is the easy answer because the weather is a darling with a mild breeze but long daylight hours. The landscapes look green, flowers bloom, and outdoor events and activities increase. Check out the fun things to do in Russia during the summer.

1.  Witness the Spectacular White Nights – St. Petersburg

From late May to early July, a beautiful natural phenomenon transforms the whole look of Russia. St. Petersburg is located at a high northern latitude, and during peak summer, the sun barely sets below the horizon. Therefore, you will see almost 19 hours of bright sunlight and pearlescent nights. The nights glow so much naturally in hues of pink and gold that there’s no need for street lights. As this is a strangely beautiful natural phenomenon, the whole city comes alive with music, art, and cultural performances. Many tourists gather here from around the globe to witness the magical White Nights. While you are here, don’t miss the world-class ballet, opera, and classical music, experience the Scarlet Sails celebration, and click as many photographs as you want of this spectacular festival.

2.  Enjoy Volga River Cruise

You can say the Volga River is the lifeline of Russia. You get the best scenic experiences while cruising on this river from Moscow to St. Petersburg. A summertime river cruise on the Volga would be one of the best things to do in Russia because you get to enjoy the cool breeze and see the historical landmarks pass one by one. The charming towns and countryside also offer the best views. Seeing the Kremlin, Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral, Palace of Uglich Princes, Church of Elijah the Prophet, Kostroma, etc. is an inexplicable feeling.

3.  Discover the Insane Beauty of Lake Baikal

Everyone knows that Lake Baikal is the deepest freshwater lake in the world and quite deservedly it is a national treasure. It attracts millions of tourists in summer season because it offers many outdoor activities. You can go hiking to the lakeside trails or enjoy boating and kayaking on the lake. There’s rare wildlife for you to discover and some picturesque Siberian villages. The magical sunsets from the panoramic viewpoints would add more joy to your stay here.

4.  Explore Golden Ring Towns

Soviet journalist Yuri Bychkov was given a task to write an essay about the historic towns’ northeast of Moscow. So, while drawing a plan for the road trip, he realized that these historic towns are forming a loop with Moscow as the focal point. The word "golden" represents the historical, cultural, and financial affluence of these cities. The cities are Sergiyev Posad, Pereslavl-Zalessky, Rostov the Great, Kostroma, Suzdal, etc., and exploring these places would be the top thing to do in Russia. You will come across centuries-old cathedrals and monasteries and be amazed at the Russian architecture. Visitors also highly appreciate the local museums and artisan workshops.

5.  Ride the Legendary Trans-Siberian Railway

You may come to Russia in peak season, shoulder season, or off season, but you simply cannot miss riding the Trans-Siberian Railway. The summer season brings to you some unique experiences, comfortable conditions, and diverse nature views. This 9289 km rail route will take you through multiple time zones (almost), vast stretches of forests, lakes, and mountains. The green taiga of pine and birch looks fascinating with steppes in between. It`s quite astonishing to pass by the traditional wooden Siberian villages. Moreover, you can observe the spectacular views of the deepest freshwater lake in the world, Lake Baikal, right from your cabin—if that’s not the best thing to do in Russia, then what is?

Best Things to Do in Russia – Winter Special

Spectators say you truly see Russia only if you have been there in winter. Yes, it is brutally cold, but that’s what transforms the whole personality of this country. The cities are mostly covered in snow, marketplaces and streets turn festive, lakes are frozen, and the spirits among people are high as ever. Check out the best things to do in Russia during the winter.

6.  Witness the Captivating Northern Lights in Murmansk

Who doesn’t get startled by the very mention of Aurora Borealis, popularly known as Northern Lights? You all know that Norway and Iceland are mostly famous for Northern Lights views, but Russia has Murmansk that will offer you the same views at half the cost. Geographically, Murmansk is located at 68.9° North latitude, which is almost inside the Arctic Circle, and that’s why the northern lights are visible in all their glory. Just imagine staying awake in the long, dark winter nights to see the sky perform a colorful play—isn`t that the most interesting thing to do in Russia? Apart from that, explore the tundra landscapes.

7.  Experience Snow-Covered Moscow

Winter turns Moscow into a fairytale you have only read in novels and seen in movies. The Kremlin and the Red Square—two of the most famous and prestigious attractions in the capital of Russia—get wrapped in a cover of snow and look majestic. The famous rink at the Red Square gets major footfalls because it`s fun to skate around, and it`s one of the best things to do in Russia. The cafés and restaurants all around turn cozier to accommodate guests in extreme cold weather. Moreover, you can enjoy concerts and cultural shows.

8.  Have Fun at the Frozen Lake Baikal

We all know Lake Baikal holds almost 20% of the world`s unfrozen surface freshwater. In the winter season, Lake Baikal freezes due to extreme cold temperatures (-30 to -50 degree Celsius). The surrounding Siberian climate coupled with the unique physics of water leads to a frozen Lake Baikal which becomes a top thing to see in Russia. A clear sheet of ice covering a vast lake makes up for a surreal beauty. If you are here in winter, you can also experience the ice caves and frozen grottoes. Snowmobiling and ice trekking adventures are also thoroughly enjoyed by tourists.

9.  Experience Christmas Markets in Russia

Christmas is the time to get ready for festivities, and Russia looks pretty during this time. Tourists get a sneak peek into the traditional festivals. The marketplaces all over Russia become the center of attractions as all the shops, restaurants, and bars deck up at their brightest best. Therefore, the famous Russian tourist activity in winter is to go for shopping, dining, entertainment, and cultural shows at these Christmas markets.

10.  Enjoy Winter Sports in Sochi

Since 2014, when it hosted the Winter Olympics, Sochi has become the premier winter sports destination in Russia. One of the fun things to do in Russia is skiing on mountain resorts, going for snowboarding, and taking cable car rides to get the most captivating views of the snowy mountains. Sochi, surrounded by the Caucasus Mountains, is one of the best places to visit in Russia, especially during winter for the adventurous opportunities.

Best Free Things to Do in Russia – Yes You Don’t Need to Spend a Penny

Yes, Russia is the largest country in the world with a developed economy, but that doesn’t mean exploring the country always asks for big budgets. There are plenty of places in Russia that you can roam around for free, meaning there aren’t any entry fees required. These places would give you a better insight into Russian culture and lifestyle.

11.  Visit the Palace Square in St. Petersburg

With stunning architecture all around, Palace Square is one of the best free public places where you can go to spend quality time. The grandeur of the Winter Palace and the Alexander Column are unforgettable.

12.  Have Fun at Public Parks and Gardens

There are many public parks and gardens all over Russia where you can sit quietly with a book or music player or play around with your children. Zaryadye Park and Alexander Garden are some examples where you can visit. Many artists perform in these free public spaces.

13.  Red Square Surroundings

Red Square is the cultural heart of Russia, and you simply cannot miss walking around this historic landmark. Nobody would charge you while you are admiring the exterior walls of St. Basil’s Cathedral and the Kremlin.

14.  Stroll Around Arbat Street

Arbat Street is one of the most iconic streets in Moscow. There are historic buildings, cafés, and shops displaying souvenir items that you may buy for your loved ones back home. Many musicians and street performers show off their skill to entertain you.

15.  Moscow Metro Stations

Yes, the metro stations in Moscow are spectacular and require time to admire. Not totally free, but just a nominal metro ticket won’t burn your pocket, and with that you will come across spectacular interiors. From chandeliers to marble work, mosaics to paintings—seeing the metro stations is definitely one of the best things to do in Russia, as they pay perfect tribute to art, history, and culture.

Conclusion

Russia is rewarding—as you get to explore various things throughout the year. Summer and winter are two major seasons here, and both attract tourists. Summer is more bearable, and that’s why the number of tourists is higher compared to the frigid winters. Both seasons offer multiple things to do in Russia, like witnessing the White Nights, enjoying skiing, or taking the legendary Trans-Siberian Railway. This blog will guide you to the best things to do in Russia, along with the free things to do and see there. Read it carefully and plan your Russia trip. For more detailed information about this country, dive into our Russia travel guide blog.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best things to do in Russia?

The best things to do in Russia are riding the Trans-Siberian Railway, exploring St. Petersburg, especially White Nights, and visiting the Moscow Red Square and Kremlin.

Is the Trans-Siberian Railway worth all the hype?

Yes, the Trans-Siberian Railway is worth all the hype. It offers the most stunning views of Lake Baikal, Siberian villages, and the mountains and forests.

What is the best time to visit Russia so that I can experience the best things there?

Generally, the best time to visit Russia is between May and September, which is the summer time. In summer, you can experience the world-renowned White Nights. But if you want to experience the Northern Lights, you must come to Russia in the winter season.

What are the top adventure activities in Russia?

The top adventure activities in Russia are skiing in Sochi, trekking along Lake Baikal, and rafting in the Altai Mountains.

Can I visit Lake Baikal all year round?

Yes. Summer here is perfect for hiking or boating, while winter is excellent for Northern Lights and Christmas markets.