Enchanted Russia: Winter Magic from Kremlin to Hermitage

Winston Churchill once famously described Russia as 'a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma'. This monumental nation remains as elusive today as it ever was. With its vast landscapes as varied and mysterious as its history, visitors will be treated to towering volcanic peaks, frozen Siberian wastelands and some extraordinarily extravagant cities. While the majority of travellers beeline for the west to marvel at the cultural delights of Moscow and St Petersburg, there is plenty to be seen beyond these two central hubs. The Golden Ring is dotted with enchanting historical towns brimming with ancient architecture; the glorious River Volga will transport you south towards the beautiful Caspian Sea where you will witness Russia at its most traditional and authentic; and the famed Trans-Siberian Railway will take you through a land of sublime natural beauty. Whether you are seeking historic cities, idyllic countryside, artistic riches, or vodka-fuelled debauchery, Russia won’t leave you disappointed.

Currency 

Local currency: Russian Ruble 
Symbol: ₽ 
ISO code: RUB 
Subunit: Kopeck 
Banknotes: ₽50, ₽100, ₽200, ₽500, ₽1000, ₽2000, ₽5000 
Coins: 1, 5, 10 rubles 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: Yes 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: Yes (Varies) 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 

Air: 

Main airlines: Aeroflot 
International Airports: Sheremetyevo International Airport (Moscow), Domodedovo International Airport (Moscow), Pulkovo Airport (St. Petersburg) 
Domestic Airports: Vnukovo International Airport (Moscow), Koltsovo Airport (Yekaterinburg), Tolmachevo Airport (Novosibirsk) 

Road: 

Driving on the: Right 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Yes 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 

Railway system: Yes 
Subway System: Yes 

Water: 

Ferries: Yes 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Yes 

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: No 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: 

Russian cuisine is diverse and reflects the country's vast cultural and geographic expanse. It includes dishes like borscht (beet soup), pelmeni (dumplings), blini (pancakes), and beef stroganoff. Vodka is a notable local drink, along with kvass and Russian tea. 

Tipping: 10-15% 

Annual Rainfall: 400-800 mm (16-31 inches)

Average Temperature: 5-7°C (41-45°F)

Summer:

Average highs: 20-25°C (68-77°F)

Average lows: 10-15°C (50-59°F)

Winter:

Average highs: -10 to -2°C (14-28°F)

Average lows: -20 to -10°C (-4 to 14°F)

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit Russia depends on the region and activities. Generally, late spring to early autumn (May to September) offers milder weather and longer daylight hours, suitable for outdoor activities and sightseeing. 

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: Yes 

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 

Plug Type: Type C, Type F 
Voltage (V): 220V 
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50Hz 

* A travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.