Russian Federation (Russia)-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Moscow

  • Arrive at Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO)
  • Take a taxi or metro to your hotel
  • Check-in to your accommodation and take some time to rest
  • Must-visit place: Red Square, where you can admire the St. Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s Mausoleum
  • Things to know:
    • Russia is 7 hours ahead of GMT (UTC)
    • Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas
    • Basic Russian phrases like “Privyet” (hello), “Spasibo” (thank you), and “Dosvidanya” (goodbye) will go a long way

Day 2: Moscow

  • Visit the Tretyakov Gallery, one of the world’s largest museums featuring Russian art
  • Explore the Moscow Metro, with its ornate and beautiful stations
  • Walk through the historic Kitay-Gorod district, known for its narrow streets and charming architecture
  • Activity: Take a stroll along the Moscow River embankment at sunset
  • Things to know:
    • Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular tourist spots
    • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water
    • Try some traditional Russian cuisine like borscht, beef stroganoff, and blini

Day 3: Moscow

  • Visit the Kremlin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring impressive architecture and historic landmarks
  • Explore the adjacent Armoury Chamber, home to a vast collection of royal artifacts and treasures
  • Visit the Novodevichy Convent, one of Russia’s most beautiful monasteries
  • Activity: Attend a ballet or opera performance at the Bolshoi Theatre (book tickets in advance)
  • Things to know:
    • Be respectful of the Kremlin walls; no photos allowed near the official residence of the President
    • Consider purchasing a tourist SIM card for convenient data access

Day 4: St. Petersburg

  • Take an overnight train or flight from Moscow to St. Petersburg ( approx. 6 hours)
  • Check-in to your accommodation and freshen up
  • Must-visit place: The Hermitage Museum, one of the world’s largest and most famous museums
  • Things to know:
    • Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular tourist spots
    • Don’t miss the stunning views of St. Petersburg from the top floor of the Hermitage Museum

Day 5: St. Petersburg

  • Visit the Peterhof Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring impressive fountains and gardens
  • Explore the historic Canal District, known for its beautiful architecture and lively atmosphere
  • Take a stroll through the Nevsky Prospect, one of Russia’s most famous streets
  • Activity: Attend a concert or recital at the St. Petersburg Philharmonic Hall (book tickets in advance)
  • Things to know:
    • Don’t miss the breathtaking views of St. Petersburg from the Peterhof Palace fountains
    • Consider purchasing a Museum Card for access to multiple museums and attractions

Day 6: Kazan

  • Take an overnight train or flight from St. Petersburg to Kazan (approx. 7 hours)
  • Check-in to your accommodation and freshen up
  • Must-visit place: The Kazan Kremlin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring stunning architecture and historic landmarks
  • Things to know:
    • Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular tourist spots
    • Don’t miss the beautiful Tatar mosques and churches in the city center

Day 7: Departure from Moscow

  • Take an overnight flight or train back to Moscow (approx. 6 hours)
  • Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring any last-minute attractions
  • Things to know:
    • Ensure you have all necessary documents and visas for departure
    • Consider purchasing a souvenir from your favorite store or market

Visa Requirements:

  • Citizens of most countries require a visa to enter Russia; check the Russian Federation’s official government website for requirements
  • Tourist visas (valid for 30 days) can be obtained at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo International Airport upon arrival
  • Consider applying for an e-visa prior to your trip (available for citizens of certain countries)

Transportation:

  • Domestic flights and trains are available between major cities; consider booking in advance for optimal prices
  • Metro systems are efficient and convenient in Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Kazan
  • Private taxis and ride-hailing apps like Yandex.Taxi are widely used

Other Tips:

  • Russia has a vibrant cultural scene; attend a music or dance performance to experience local traditions
  • Consider purchasing a Russian SIM card for data access and convenient communication
  • Don’t forget to try some delicious Russian cuisine, such as borscht, beef stroganoff, and blini!