Russia, the largest country in the world is best known for its vodka, bears, cold weather, and beautiful women. This transcontinental country is located in the north of Asia and east of Europe and is the most populous nation in Europe and the ninth-most populous nation in the world. The country has become a famous tourist spot in recent decades because of its highly-spirited history and ethnic diversity that has attracted trippers from far and wide. Whether you are looking for top things to do in St Petersburg Russia or the best things to do in Russian river, the country has got a lot to keep you busy. So, make a plan and pack your bags and check out the below list of top things to do in Russia that will make your itinerary a memorable one.

1. SKIING AT RED VALLEY

The red valley was once the home for Winter Olympics in 2014 and is also an ideal hub for skiing and snowboarding because of its vast and diverse slopes. If you love adventure and snow sports then you will surely love visiting this mini paradise. Skiiing is one of the fun things to do in Russia that attracts several tourists from different parts of the world.

2. GO FOR A CANAL TOUR

St. Petersburg the port city in Russia has an abundance of canals along with 800 bridges. You can go on a voyage and see these magnificently architectured bridges crossing the total length of 300 Kms of these artificial canals; this is indeed one of the most memorable things to do in the St. Petersburg Russia.

3. SPEND YOUR EVENING AT THE SAMARA ACADEMIC OPERA AND BALLET THEATRE

Visit this picturesque opera theatre and make your evening magical amidst Russia’s charming local traditions and folk tales. You will witness amazing decorations, ballet, orchestra, symphony, colorful and bright costumes, singing, dancing, everything here is truly fantastic.

4. VISIT UNIQUE MUSEUMS

Apart from the famous conventional museums like The State Hermitage Museum, Pushkin Museum of fine arts, Museum of Military Vehicles and many more, the country also has some unique museums like Soviet Playing Machines Museum, The Moscow Light Museum, The Burganov House, Museum of Soviet Arcade Games, Museum of Hygiene and a lot more the country is full of unusual places like these.

5. FEEL WEIGHTLESS IN THE STAR CITY

Star city is a place in Moscow Oblast; it is a cosmonaut or astronaut training center, here while diving into the past you can leap into the future. If you want to experience an unforgettable adventure, devour in a zero-gravity flight or simulated rocket launch is one of the craziest and best things to do in Moscow Russia.

6. ENJOY AT THE SAMARA EMBANKMENT

It is a 5 km long street for pedestrians along the left bank of the Volga River in Central Samara, where you can make the most of your bright sunny day by either laying and relaxing on the beach by taking some drinks and snacks or indulging yourself in exercise. You can also go on a boat cruise if you want to excite up your day.

7. WATCH MOSCOW CAT THEATRE

This theatre is the only place, where these cute pet furry friends are called proud actors. There are more than hundreds of cats who perform stunts like walking a tightrope and balancing on a ball. However, some people highly criticize these shows based on animal torture and animal rights activities.

8. VISIT THE GLORIOUS AMBER ROOM

If you are a lover of fine arts and amazing artworks, then this place will surely be a feast for you. This glorious Amber Room comprises of gold leaf and the mirror panel is located in the Catherine Palace, St. Petersburg. This famous chamber has been renovated several times; it was last reconstructed in 2003 and is an amazing piece of art to witness.

9. VISIT THE LENIN’S MAUSOLEUM

The Lenin’s Mausoleum in Moscow is another stunning tourist attraction in Russia, often referred to as the ‘Modern Mummy’ it has Vladimir Lenin’s preserved body laying within a red granite and black labradorite step pyramid. This mausoleum was made in 1929 when the local people demanded a permanent mausoleum for Lenin after his death; you should surely visit this place and know other amazing facts behind the construction of this mausoleum.

10. AMAZE YOURSELF AT THE PSYCHEDELIC SALT MINES

You should surely visit this place on your vacation to Russia and spend colorful hours here and capture a lifetime memory. These bizarre swirls were found 650 ft below in Yekaterinburg, formed due to the layers of mineral carnallite. You will be surely stunned to see the unique patterns and beautiful designs formed with yellow, red, white, and blue forms eventually over time. No wonder, it is listed amongst one of the top Russia things to do that you must add in your itinerary.

11. TRANQUIL WALKS AT KIZHI ISLAND

If you have refined sensitivity towards art, architecture, and nature, then this place will surely excite your nerves. Kizhi Islands is believed to be one of the most beautiful places in Russia, as it showcases the iconic 18th-century Russian architecture along with scenic and delightful natural beauty. The place also comprises of two churches, amazingly built from wood in an ancient Russian architectural design. So, if you are an architecture addict and a nature lover then this place will surely prove to be eye candy for you.

12. VISIT THE SYMBOL OF RELIGIOUS UNITY

If you are on a vacation to Russia then surely visit ‘Temple of all Religions’ in Kazan, established by a Russian philanthropist Ildar Khanov. This place is a unique architectural complex, representing all the major religions of the world and emphasizes peace, harmony, and brotherhood.

13. ENJOY AT SOCHI PARK ADVENTURELAND

If you are on a holiday with family and have kids along with you then you should mark this place in your checklist. This is a colorful amusement park with various exciting rides, many kiddie attractions, multiple eateries based on different themes and you may also see animal shows. This place is family-friendly with various amenities so take your camera to capture some fun-loving moments with your family.

14. SPEND YOUR DAY IN LIMPOPO ZOO

If you are a zoophilist and want to see a wide variety of creatures then this place is a must to visit. Here you can also buy some food and get a chance to feed them, if there are children along with you on your vacation then surely bring them here for an unforgettable experience with animals. The zoo also hosts funfair activities for the young ones to enjoy. The animals are very friendly, loved, and are taken care of. So, do visit this zoo and take back a bag full of memories and a lovely time spent with the animals of Limpopo Zoo.

15. VISIT SAINT BASIL’S CATHEDRAL

This Christian churn in Red Square, Moscow is regarded as the cultural symbol of the country also known as the Trinity Cathedral. The architecture or design of this church has no parallel in Russian architecture was designed in the 16th century. The architecture of the building is like a flame of a bonfire rising into the sky, the design will astonish you because of its complexity, strangeness, unexpectedness, and its dazzling interweaving of the manifold details. This piece of architecture is superficially attractive especially for architecture aesthetes; you should surely visit this cathedral and enjoy its magnificence.

What’s next waiting for you?

Russia has something for all sorts of travelers. Whether you are on an adventurous solo trip or traveling with family on a vacation with friends or holidaying as a couple, this country proves to be an excellent paradise to satisfy the appetite of the explorer in you. Apart from visiting the profusion of attractions, there are many other exciting and fun things to do in Russia. Now you know what to do in Russia, you can plan your journey judiciously to make your tour an epic one.

About Author:

Ayushi Malhotra – Painting her voice through her writings

A teacher by profession, and a logophile by heart! She is a passionate reader and loves traveling and writing. You would often find her sitting in her bed with a cup of coffee either reading a historical novel or lost in the articles related to space. She is always ready to travel to places that are either having snow-peaked mountains or lush green lands. Music lover and a die-heart foodie are the synonyms that define her the best. Writing keeps her occupied, happy, and calms the chaos in her.