Exploring a Land of Contrasts, Culture, and Timeless Stories
Russia had always fascinated me — a country known for its grand history, vast landscapes, powerful architecture, and deep-rooted traditions. In 2025, I finally traveled to Russia, and the experience was unlike anywhere else I had been. From colorful onion domes and imperial palaces to snow-covered streets and warm hospitality, Russia revealed itself as a destination full of depth and surprises.
This blog shares my personal Russia travel experience, along with essential travel tips, must-visit places, food experiences, and practical advice to help you plan your own unforgettable journey.
✈️ Arrival in Russia – First Impressions
I arrived in Moscow, Russia’s vibrant capital. The airport was modern and well-organized, and immigration procedures were smooth with proper documentation. Stepping outside, I immediately noticed the grandeur — wide roads, historic buildings, and a sense of powerful history everywhere.
Getting from Airport to City
- Aeroexpress train (fast and reliable)
- Metro connections
- Official taxis & ride-hailing apps
💡 Tip: The Aeroexpress train is the easiest way to reach central Moscow.
🏨 Where I Stayed in Russia
Choosing the right area is important due to the size of Russian cities.
Best Areas to Stay
- Central Moscow: Close to Red Square & major attractions
- Arbat District: Cultural, walkable, lively
- Nevsky Prospekt (St. Petersburg): Historic & scenic
I stayed near Red Square, which made sightseeing extremely convenient.
🏙️ Day 1 – Moscow & Red Square
My first day was dedicated to the heart of Moscow.
Red Square Highlights
- Saint Basil’s Cathedral
- Kremlin walls
- Lenin’s Mausoleum
- GUM Department Store
Seeing Saint Basil’s Cathedral in real life was surreal — its colorful domes looked straight out of a fairytale.
🚇 Day 2 – Moscow Metro & City Life
The Moscow Metro is not just transportation — it’s an underground museum.
Famous Metro Stations
- Komsomolskaya
- Mayakovskaya
- Kievskaya
- Ploshchad Revolyutsii
Each station showcased chandeliers, mosaics, and Soviet-era artwork.
🏰 Day 3 – Kremlin & Russian History
The Kremlin is the political and historical center of Russia.
Inside the Kremlin
- Cathedrals Square
- Armoury Chamber
- Tsar Cannon & Tsar Bell
- Presidential buildings
Walking inside the Kremlin felt like stepping back into imperial Russia.
🚄 Day 4 – St. Petersburg: The Cultural Capital
I took a high-speed train to St. Petersburg, often called Russia’s most European city.
First Impressions of St. Petersburg
- Elegant canals
- Pastel-colored buildings
- Romantic bridges
- Artistic atmosphere
✨ The city felt refined, calm, and incredibly beautiful.
🏛️ Day 5 – Hermitage Museum & Palaces
St. Petersburg is a paradise for art lovers.
Must-Visit Attractions
- Hermitage Museum (Winter Palace)
- Peterhof Palace & fountains
- Catherine Palace
- Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood
💡 Tip: Dedicate at least half a day to the Hermitage Museum.
🍽️ Russian Food – Hearty & Comforting
Russian cuisine is simple, warm, and satisfying.
Must-Try Russian Dishes
- Borscht (beet soup)
- Pelmeni (dumplings)
- Blini (pancakes)
- Beef Stroganoff
- Pirozhki (stuffed pastries)
Pairing meals with hot tea during cold days was incredibly comforting.
🛍️ Shopping in Russia
Shopping in Russia is unique and cultural.
Best Shopping Spots
- GUM Mall (historic & elegant)
- Arbat Street (souvenirs & art)
- Local markets
- Matryoshka doll shops
Traditional Russian handicrafts make beautiful souvenirs.
❄️ Experiencing Russian Winter
Traveling in colder months adds a magical charm.
Winter Highlights
- Snow-covered streets
- Festive lights
- Ice skating rinks
- Cozy cafés
💡 Tip: Dress in layers and invest in good winter shoes.
🚶 Getting Around Russia
Russian cities are well-connected.
Transportation Options
- Metro systems
- Trams & buses
- High-speed trains
- Taxis & ride-hailing apps
The metro is affordable, fast, and easy to navigate.
💡 Russia Travel Tips (2025)
- Check visa requirements carefully
- Carry passport copies
- Learn basic Russian phrases
- Use offline maps & translation apps
- Respect local customs
🌱 Responsible Travel in Russia
Being mindful enhances your experience.
Responsible Travel Tips
- Respect historical sites
- Support local businesses
- Follow photography rules in museums
- Be culturally sensitive
💖 What Russia Taught Me
Russia taught me that behind its serious image lies warmth, pride, and deep cultural richness. The people, history, and landscapes left a powerful impression on me.
📌 Final Thoughts – Is Russia Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. Russia in 2025 is bold, historic, artistic, and unforgettable. It’s a destination that challenges perceptions and rewards curious travelers with profound experiences.
Russia isn’t just a country you visit — it’s a story you live.
