Russia is the largest country in the world and has a great number of cultural, historical and scenic attractions. The country boasts of Moscow and Saint Petersburg with its active night life, the architectural brilliance of the two cities, the quietude of Lake Baikal and much more. If it is architecture, art, history, or the thrilling adventures in extreme nature, people definitely will not remain indifferent in Russia. Nevertheless, one must remember that to travel to Russia most of the foreigners need to obtain a Russia visa, though the process of its obtaining is rather simple.
Having a Russian visa you will be able to visit some of the most astonishing places in the country. Every part of Russia is very beautiful and interesting, and when visiting the country, tourists will have a chance to explore its historical and ethnical background and enjoy natural beauty. From the snowy mountains of Sochi in Caucasus to the Tatar Kozan, Russia welcomes you with its broad and diverse sightseeing opportunities. Below are five places that should be on your travel list.
Here is the 5 Amazing Destinations to Visit in Russia
1. Moscow
Moscow is Russia’s capital city, and it is one of the most amazing places anyone can ever visit due to its many tourist attractions, unique architectural designs, and cultural heritage. The Red Square and the Kremlin are easily recognizable landmarks situated in the central part of the city and provide a view at the political and cultural background of the country. Tourists can also take a walk in the famous Red Square and also see the architectural marvel that is Saint Basil’s Cathedral with its bright domes. However, the city also has a rich night life and contemporary architecture, as well as such parks as Gorky Park and VDNKh. Of course, it would be a sin not to go to the Bolshoi Theatre and watch the performance of a ballet or opera.
2. Saint Petersburg
Also known as the Venice of the North, Saint Petersburg is famous for its imperial palaces, numerous canals, and stunning museums. This city is the place of the famous Hermitage Museum, which is one of the largest and most beautiful in the world. One can also go round the splendid Winter Palace which was once the home of Russian emperors, it is an exquisite piece of Baroque architecture. The beauty of Saint Petersburg is in its European looking buildings, beautiful cathedrals such as Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood and beautiful bridges built across the Neva River. White Nights Festival in the summer is when the sun sets only for a short time and St. Petersburg is filled with music, arts and cultural events.
3. Lake Baikal
It is a perfect place for lovers of wild nature and travel, Lake Baikal is located in Siberia. Also known as the ‘Pearl of Siberia,’ it is the deepest and the oldest freshwater lake in the world. It contains approximately 20% of the global unfrozen freshwater resources and is located near mountains, forests, and rocky shores. The lake is also accessible by boat in the summer or by the ice in the winter. Some of the common activities include trekking, wildlife viewing and taking a dip in the natural hot water springs. A special attention is paid to Olkhon Island, the largest island on the territory of Lake Baikal, which is famous for its mystical and cultural appeal.
4. Kazan
The Republic of Tatarstan’s capital, Kazan, is an interesting mix of Russian and Tatar cultures. Often referred to as the ‘Third Capital of Russia’, Kazan boasts the magnificent Kazan Kremlin listed as the world heritage site with the Orthodox churches and mosques side by side. One of the most famous sights, which is the Qol Sharif Mosque with two blue domes and two minarets, is a true face of the city. Kazan is also famous for its active and diverse food culture where a tourist can taste the famous Tatar dishes chak-chak and echpochmak. The city has a rich history and a lot of new sites to visit, so it is always interesting to travel there.
5. Sochi
Sochi is one of the coastal cities of the Black Sea and it became famous all over the world as the place of the XXII Winter Olympic Games in 2014. This is a preferred tourist spot for the summer and winter holidays with a beautiful sandy shoreline, fabulous mountain ranges and well-developed ski resorts in the Caucasus Mountains nearby. During the summer, tourists can have a sunbathing on the local beaches, visiting Sochi Arboretum or having a pleasant walk in Sochi National Park. In winter Sochi becomes a winter sport destination with ski resorts such as Rosa Khutor hosting some of the best ski and snowboard events. That is why Sochi can be visited at any time of the year, as it has the warm subtropical climate and stunning nature.
Conclusion
Russia is one of the largest countries in the world and has a very rich and diverse history, culture and nature that can be hardly found in other countries. As you travel through the eye-catching sights of Moscow and St Petersburg, the beauty of Lake Baikal, or the Tatar influences of Kazan, each location has its unique appeal. From the beautiful mountains of Sochi to the unique architecture across the country, travelling to Russia is always a worthwhile endeavor.
When planning on a trip to Russia, it is advisable to ensure that your visa is in order in order to enhance your trip. As one can find out, there is so much to do and discover in this amazing country, that you will want to come back for more. From history lovers to nature lovers, to the adventurous, there is something for everyone in Russia.
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