About Russia (Moscow)
Discover the beauty of Russia through our well-designed Russia tour packages that include some of the cities and places that should be visited such as Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Kazan, Sochi and the beautiful towns or rather the Golden Ring. Our tours are short as 5 days, to in depth 15-day tours, and are ideal with families, couples, honeymooners, and solo travelers in pursuit of culture, history and spectacular sceneries.
India Russia honeymoon packages are offered to couples in India who want to have a romantic holiday whereby India Russia holiday packages are offered to families and groups who want to visit Russia to experience the rich heritage and the modern attractions of Russia. Rates begin with 1,50,000 to 6,00,000 with international flights, luxurious hotels, and city tours, sightseeing tours, and ranged meals.
Reserving a Russia trip package in India or a Russia travel package in India makes the experience hassle-free, including airport transfers and specialized guides as well as experiences. You need a Russia vacation package in India, a Russia Tour Package In Delhi or Russia tour packages in Kerala, we have the right package that is designed to offer the comfort, convenience and the memories that you can always remember. Our Russia tour packages offer a fusion of history, culture and contemporary flair to its guests.
About Russia
Russia is the country of contrasts, where the history of the emperor is opposed to the modern constructions, big landscapes are contrasted with the colorful city life. Russia is a place to visit due to its grand palaces, the famous Red Square, and the world-renowned Hermitage Museum that have become the perfect locations to experience the combination of culture, history, and nature in the most extraordinary way.
We take about 30 Russian tour packages in India with short 5 day tours and long 15 day trips around the country. We have packages that cover all that you require in a hassle free travel experience that includes international flights, accommodation, sightseeing, tours around the city, airport transfers and customized trips.
Cruising through Moscow, visiting palaces and canals in St. Petersburg, watching Northern lights in Murmansk, or watching the picturesque beauty of Sochi and the Golden Ring towns are some of the incredible experiences that the travelers can have with our Russia holiday packages and Russia honeymoon packages in India.
Our flights fly between major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kochi and therefore, it is easy to begin travelling. Be it a Russia trip package in India or Russia vacation package in India, our team will guarantee a memorable way of travelling at a perfect mix of culture, adventure and comfort.
What kind of a Tour is the best for you?
City Tours (first time in the city): See Moscow, Saint Petersburg and Kazan by guided sightseeing, landmarks and iconic places of interest and this is ideal in providing a first-time visitor of Russia with a perfect sightseeing experience.
Culture & Heritage (to history lovers): Explore the rich history of Russia and visit the Hermitage Museum, Kremlin, cathedrals, and the UNESCO World Heritage sites with professional guides who will tell you the most interesting stories.
Special Season Tours (to have something unique): have Russia at its finest with winter wonders, spring festivals or Northern lights in Murmansk, and combine the beauty of the seasons with the activities that are tailored specifically.
Family Tours (kids and families): Custom-crafted, entertaining itinerary that includes museums, cultural performances, and attractions that are kid-friendly, and, consequently, offer every family member a wonderful vacation.
Adventure Tours (when you are a nature lover): Trek, cruise, or see the scenic views of Russia, including, Caucasus mountains, Lake Baikal, with adventurous outdoor activities that will attract the adventure seekers.
Luxury Tours (premium experience): Spend the night in 5-star hotels, have a personal guide, special experience, and fine food, providing comfort, convenience and sophistication to spend a luxurious vacation in Russia.
These India-based Russia tour packages suit all kinds of travellers be it adventure, romance, culture, or luxury and would make your holiday in Russia with Russia memorable.
Quick Facts About Russia
Capital City: Moscow It has imperial history, modern architecture, and dynamic culture, so the city of Moscow can be seen as the center of Russian politics, business, and nightlife. It forms part of every Russia tour package that we offer in India.
Money: Russian Ruble (RUB) - Accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and stores.
Language: Russian (official), and English can be commonly spoken in tourist spots.
The location is Moscow Time (MSK) UTC +3 (depending on the area up to UTC +12).
Most Ideal Time of the Year: May through September- have a taste of pleasant climates, long days and perfect sightseeing.
Weather by Season:
Spring (March–May): 5 o C to 20 o C; ideal in sightseeing, photography, city tours.
Summer (June-August): 20C- 30C: hot weather, best suited to the cruising of the rivers, outdoor activities and feasts.
October (September 12 September 30) 5 0 C 15 0 C: Fall foliage, golden and beautiful, and a good time to take a cultural tour or heritage tour.
Winter (December-February): -10 o C -0 C; snowy sceneries that are ideal in skiing, ice skating, and winter activities.
Famous Food in Russia
Borscht - Beet soup served with sour cream.
The pelmeni - Dumplings stuffed with meat, hot.
Blini - Thin pancakes, either sweet or savory, which are common all over Russia.
Beef Stroganoff Beef Tender And Creamy Sauce, also a Russian specialty.
Caviar - Famous Novelty served on blini or toast.
Shchi – Traditional cabbage soup.
Pirozhki - Little stuffed buns, fried or baked.
Olivier Salad - Russian potato salad, potatoes, vegetables and mayo.
Top Attractions:
Moscow, Red Square - Famous square which includes the cathedral of Saint Basil.
Kremlin, Moscow - Old fortress and political center.
Hermitage Museum, Saint Petersburg- World-known art and culture museum.
Peterhof Palace - Beautiful gardens and fountains close to Saint Petersburg.
Lake Baikal - The deepest freshwater lake that has beautiful landscapes.
Sochi – Winter and beach city.
Golden Ring towns - Historic towns that represent Russian culture.
Saint Petersburg Cathedral, Saint Isaac- Panoramic and architectural wonder.
Things to Do:
Get acquainted with Red Square and the Kremlin.
Cruise Moskva & Neva rivers.
See Northern Lights in Murmansk.
Hermitage Museum and Winter Palace.
Hiking in the Caucasus Mountains or hiking in Lake Baikal.
Watch Russian ballet, opera and cultural festivals.
Skiing and beaches in Sochi.
Explore Golden Ring towns and historical buildings.
Buy handicrafts, souvenirs and local goods.
Experience the real Russian food in food tours.
Food to Try:
Borscht - Eastern soup of beets with deep savory taste.
Pelmeni - Russian dumplings that are typically filled with meat.
Blini - Fine pancakes, usually accompanied by caviar or jam.
Beef Stroganoff - Tender beef with a creamy sauce of mushrooms.
Pirozhki - Small fried or baked buns with different fillings.
Caviar - Anglo-Russian fish caviar.
Shchi - Traditional cabbage soup, full and warm.
Olivier Salad -Russian-style potato salad with vegetable and mayonnaise.
What to Buy in Russia:
Matryoshka dolls - Typical nesting dolls.
Fabergé fakes - Lovely decorated, handmade eggs.
Russian vodka - Globally known.
Amber jewelry - Unique and handcrafted.
Ushanka hats These are traditional fur hats.
Lacquer boxes - Painted ornamental souvenirs.
Conventional scarfs - Right souvenirs and presents.
Chocolate and sweets - Russian desserts.
Travel Tips: Our Russia travel package in India will be one where you get to visit all the attractions in a comfortable manner and it may be a family visit, a romantic vacation with our Russia honeymoon packages in India or a solo trip. Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore and Kochi flights. It can be Russia Tour Package From Delhi or Russia tour packages from Kerala.
Interesting Facts about Russia
Russia is the largest country in the world with a total area of 17.1 million square kilometers that occupies 11 time zones and approximately twice the size of the United States.
Trans-Siberian Railway - The longest railway in the world is the line that runs between Moscow and Vladivostok which has fantastic scenic views covering a distance of 9000km.
Lake Baikal The Deep Giant Lake Baikal is the deepest freshwater lake on earth with approximately a quarter of the unfrozen freshwater on the Earth.
Vodka Origins - The vodka is said to be popularised in Russia, and the country drinks approximately 12 liters of vodka on average annually.
Language Diversity - Russian is the official language, however, more than 100 languages are spoken in the country as the cultural diversity of this nation is great.
Home of the Ballet - Russia has given birth to one of the most renowned ballet ensembles in the world such as Bolshoi and Mariinsky that has attracted world audiences.
Endless Winters - There are also Siberian towns, such as Oymyakon that are as cold as -50C which makes them the coldest inhabited locations on Earth.
Firsts in Space Russian spaceships were the first to put a human being into space, Yuri Gagarin in 1961, marking the beginning of space exploration.
Matryoshka Dolls - The Russian Matryoshka Dolls are known as nesting dolls that were developed in 1890 and are now trending all over the world as cultural dolls.
Why is Russia So Popular Now?
Magnificent Natural Beauty - Since the snowy scenes of Siberia to the crystal-clear waters of Lake Baikal and the picturesque beaches of Sochi, Russia has breathtaking landscapes all through the year, and makes it an ideal place to take holidays.
New Attractions and Experiences - Moscow, Saint Petersburg, and seasonal festivals are among some of the modern developments that make Russia an interesting destination to both first-time and repeat travelers.
Great Travel Deals - With affordable rates on Russia tours package, flights and accommodation, it is high time to treat yourself to a luxurious or affordable Russian vacation.
Culinary Delights – Savor Russian cuisine; Russian classics like Borscht, Pelmeni and Blini as well as local-made beverages. Traditional dining and food tours are common in most of the big cities.
Easy Travel and Connectivity - Russia is well-linked to international flights of Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore and any other country in India, therefore, it is easy to begin a Russia Tour Package From Delhi or any other Russia tour package to Russia.
Best places to visit in Russia
Moscow- Moscow is the capital city of Russia, it is very busy and has a mixture of traditional buildings and city life.
Well known attractions: the Red Square, Kremlin, the Cathedral of Saint Basil, and nightlife.
When to go: May to September.
Location: Western Russia
Popular places of interest: Red Square, Kremlin, Saint Basil Cathedral, Bolshoi theatre, Gorky park.
Special: Politics, culture and history of Heart of Russia
Saint Petersburg - This is the cultural center of the North and is referred to as the Venice of the North due to its classy design and canals.
Tourist attraction sites include: Hermitage museum, palaces and artistic heritage.
Most favorable time of the year: June 8.
Location: Northwestern Russia.
Best sites: Hermitage Museum, Peterhof Palace, Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, Saint Isaac's cathedral, Nevsky Prospect.
Special: The cultural and artistic capital of Russia.
Sochi - Sochi is a city on black Sea and is known as a beach and winter resort.
Well known: Resorts, ski slopes, venues of the 2014 Winter Olympics.
High season: June to September (summer) / December to March (winter sports)
Location: Southwestern Russia, the coast of Black Sea.
Best attractions: Rosa Khutor Ski Resort, Olympic Park, Sochi Arboretum, Riviera Park, Agura Waterfalls.
Special: Beach and mountain activities.
Kazan -Kazan is the capital of Tatarstan, a cultural melting-pot with a rich Islamic background.
Popular attractions include: Kazan Kremlin, Qol Sharif Mosque and a variety of food.
When to visit the area: May to September.
Site: Western Russia, on the Volga river.
Key attractions: Kazan Kremlin, Qol Sharif Mosque, Kul Sharif Mosque, Bauman street, Temple of All religions.
Special: Intense mix of Russian and Tatar culture.
Lake Baikal -The deepest freshwater in the world.
Well-known: Natural beauty, wildlife, and winter ice formations are the outstanding beauty of this country.
Best season: May to September (summer) / January to March (winter ice)
Place of origin Siberia, southern Russia.
Best places: Listvyanka village, Olkhon Island, Baikal Nature Reserve, Chersky Peak, Circum-Baikal Railway.
Special: The paradise of nature lovers with distinctive ecosystems.
Golden Ring Towns- The Golden Ring Towns are historic towns located northeast of Moscow that are characterized by medieval architecture.
Known attractions: old churches, monasteries, and the old Russian culture.
The best season to go: May to October.
Setting: Northeastern Russia, near Moscow.
Best sights: Sergiev Posad, Suzdal, Vladimir, Yaroslavl, Rostov Veliky.
Special: Travel back in time to experience the traditional Russian heritage.
Do Indians Require a Visa to Russia?
Yes - Indian nationals should obtain a visa to travel to Russia to visit Russia for tourism, business and other reasons.
Visa Validity: A single-entry tourist visa lasts 30 days; multiple visas last a maximum of 90 days.
Processing Time: Approximately 7-10 working days, however, it is advisable to apply at least 2-3 weeks prior to travel.
How to Apply:
Complete the online visa application on the official Russian visa site.
Make a reservation in the Russian Visa Application Center or consulate.
In order to be interviewed, one has to submit the needed documents, pay the fee, and take part in an interview (when requested).
Collect your visa on its approval.
Cost: around 4000-6000 rupees of a tourist visa of one entry (this can change according to processing speed and consulate).
Documents required: Valid passport (at least 6 months before the date of travel), application form, current passport size, travel itinerary, hotel reservations, visa invitation (issued by a travel agency in Russia), travel insurance.
Types of Visas: There are available tourist visa, business visa, transit visa and multiple-entry visa (frequent travelers).
We have Russia tour packages in India that also include visa processing which means that you can prepare your trip with ease.
How to Get to Russia
Indian: There are direct and indirect flights in the metropolis of such cities as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, and Kochi.
To Russia: The primary international airports to fly into will include Sheremetyevo International Airport (Moscow), Domodedovo International Airport (Moscow), Pulkovo Airport (Saint Petersburg), and Sochi International Airport (Sochi).
Flight Time: Delhi to Moscow: Direct flights require about 89 hours. Depending on connections, flights between Mumbai and Bangalore or any other city can take 9-11 hours.
Airlines:
Aeroflot - Delhi and Mumbai to Moscow flights.
Air India - DIRECT flights and connections to Moscow and Saint Petersburg.
Lufthansa - Connections flights over Frankfurt to Moscow or Saint Petersburg.
Emirates - connecting flights to Moscow, Saint Petersburg and Sochi through Dubai.
Qatar Airways - is the connecting flight between Doha and major Russian cities.
A Russia tour package booked in India will not just take care of the flight arrangements, transfers, and the airport pick-ups, but it will also help you plan the travel easily without trying to do it on your own, on a Russia honeymoon package in India, family holiday, and a solo trip.
Top Attractions
Moscow Red Square- The Heart of Russia.
The central development of Moscow is the historic Red Square, which is the monument of the city, and in the middle of it, there is the Catherine Cathedral of Saint Basil, known worldwide. It is the ideal place to walk, take photos, and enjoy the colorful mood of the city. Going to Red Square will allow you to feel the most symbolic object of Russian history and culture.
Cathedral of Saint Basil - Rainbow of Russia.
The Cathedral of Saint Basil is considered one of the most recognizable Russian monuments thanks to its colorful domes which are in the form of onions. Visit the interiors of the cathedral, get to know the history of the building with the help of exhibitions, and take amazing photos of the outside. It is one of the architectural masterpieces that must be seen when in Moscow.
Kremlin, Moscow – Seat of Power
Moscow possesses a historic fortress known as the Kremlin which contains an armoury museum, cathedrals, and palaces. The Kremlin sightseeing is a way to learn about the history of kings, their religious edifices, and the centuries-old Russian culture at the same place.
Hermitage Museum, Saint Petersburg - Art Lover Dream.
The Hermitage Museum is a museum of art that is among the largest in the world with an array of artwork that dates back to centuries. Visit the collections, participate in guided tours, and enjoy the fancy interiors of the palaces. This museum is a jewel to both the art and history lovers.
Peterhof Palace- Russian Versailles.
The Peterhof Palace containing its precious halls, big gardens and the beautiful fountains on the Gulf of Finland is commonly referred to as the Russian Versailles. The visitors will be able to walk the gardens, see the shows in the fountains and visit the halls located in the palace, and it is an ideal blend of the architecture and nature.
Lake Baikal – Nature’s Wonder
Lake Baikal is the deepest freshwater lake in the world with mountains and the wilderness. The tourists are able to walk along scenic routes, go on boat rides and watch special wildlife. It is the heaven of nature because of its spectacular sceneries.
Sochi – Sea and Mountain Adventures.
Sochi is a city by the shore that is known for its beaches, ski slopes, and Olympic facilities. The visitors are able to rest at the beaches, ski in the winter season, and visit the Olympic Park. Sochi is a place where one can experience both winter and summer.
Golden Ring Towns - Step Back in Time.
The towns of the Golden Ring are old towns north-eastern of Moscow containing ancient churches, monasteries and traditional Russian architecture. Tour monasteries, stroll through antique streets and buy local arts. These cities provide a realistic insight into Russian history.
Panoramic Views of Saint Isaac, Cathedral, Saint Petersburg.
The Cathedral of Saint Isaac is a huge cathedral with its golden dome and views on the city. The visitors are able to climb the colonnade, observe the elaborate mosaic and attend religious services. It is a very impressive architectural monument in Russia.
Best Activities in Russia
Red Square and Kremlin, Moscow Visit Red Square and the famous Old Kremlin complex in Moscow. Explore Russian history, architecture and the life of the Russian streets.
Location: Red Square, Moscow
Go to Hermitage Museum, Saint Petersburg - Explore millions of art pieces and historical objects of one of the biggest museums of the world. Do not overlook the luxurious interior of palaces.
Location: Palace Square, Saint Petersburg.
Take a ride along the Moskva and Neva Rivers – Have a scenic ride in the river in Moscow and Saint Petersburg where you can have an exclusive view of popular sights and city skyscrapers.
Location: Moscow and Saint Petersburg.
Trek Around Lake Baikal, Siberia – Trek through the deepest freshwater lake in the world and the surrounding wilderness by hiking trails and boat rafts. Ideal with nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Location: Irkutsk Oblast, Siberia
Skiing and Snowboarding in Sochi - It is in Sochi, one of the leading destinations of winter sports enthusiasts located in the Caucasus Mountains.
Place of location: Sochi, Rosa Khutor Ski Resort.
Explore Golden Ring towns: Visit the old medieval churches, monasteries and the traditional Russian way of life in such historical towns as Suzdal and Vladimir.
Place: Northeast of Russia, near Moscow.
Visit a Russian Ballet or Opera - Enjoy the best ballet or opera in the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow or the Mariinsky Theatre in Saint Petersburg.
Location: Moscow and Saint Petersburg.
Sample traditional Russian food Taste Borscht, Pelmeni, Blini, and Russian drinks, in the local restaurants and food markets.
Location: In Moscow, Saint Petersburg and Kazan.
Caucasus Mountains Adventure - Go paragliding, zip-lining or hiking in the beautiful Caucasus area to have an adrenaline rush.
Location: Sochi region and Kabardino-Balkaria.
New Attractions in Russia
Zaryadye Park Urban Nature Escape.
The urban park that can be discussed as a beautiful example of the integration of landscaped gardens with the futuristic architecture is the Zaryadye Park located in the city center of Moscow along with Red Square. Tourists have a chance to relax in the floating bridge, picturesque paths to walk as well as marvel at the Moscow skyline. It can be called an ideal place to relax and take photos in the center of the city.
Okhta Center Observation Deck Sky-High Views.
The Okhta Center observation deck currently under construction in Saint Petersburg will provide stunning views of the city, rivers and historic landmarks. Being the tallest building in Russia, the building will offer an unforgettable experience to both the tourists and the photography lovers.
Krestovsky Island Culture Hub- Art and Entertainment.
In Krestovsky Island, Saint Petersburg, there is a cultural and entertainment complex in the dynamic state of affairs. This neighborhood has art galleries, performance spaces, and fine dining to offer a lively blend of art, culture, and recreation to both residents and visitors.
VDNKh Renovation - Renovated Exhibition Spaces.
The VDNKh exhibition and culture park in Moscow has been built up in large-scale renovations that merge Soviet-style architecture with contemporary parts. The visitors are able to visit interactive exhibits, contemporary art displays, and family friendly activities, making it an excellent place that cultural enthusiasts should visit.
Sochi Adventure Park- Thrilling Relaxation.
In the Adventure Park called Sochi on the coast of the Black Sea, one can find adrenaline-filled activities like zip-lining, rock climbing and mountain biking. It is the perfect attraction to the adventure seekers who want to enjoy the natural beauty of Russia with the thrill of outdoor adventure.
Adventure Activities in Russia
Skiing and Snow boarding- Rosa Khutor, Sochi.
Skiing and snowboarding in Sochi is among the most popular places to visit in Rosa Khutor Ski Resort. The resort is available between December and March, and it provides slopes of excellent quality both to newcomers and professionals, with the stunning views of Caucasus mountains. It was a host to one of the main events of the 2014 Winter Olympics and, therefore, a destination for people who like winter sports.
Hiking- Lake Baikal, Siberia.
Lake Baikal, the deepest freshwater lake in the world, provides fantastic trekking during the seasons between May and September. Traverse picturesque tracks, forest and mountain, and wildlife sightseeing as some of the most untouched backdrops in Siberia.
Ice Climbing -Siberian Mountains.
The mountain ranges of Altai and Sayan offer a thrilling playground to the ice climbers between January and March. Professional guidance will allow adventurers to climb frozen waterfalls and icy cliffs under the influence of adrenaline which will be unforgettable.
Paragliding- Caucasus Mountains.
In the Caucasus Mountains, near Sochi and Kabardino-Balkaria, a panoramic view of the valleys, the mountains and the rivers can be seen by paragliding. It is a thrilling activity best done between May and September and it involves adventure plus spectacular views.
White Water Rafting - Sochi River.
The Sochi River is a white water rafting experience that promises amazing views of wonderful gorges in May to August. It is an adventure that is suitable to both the beginners and experienced rafters and it comprises excitement and beautiful scenery.
Dog Sledding- Siberia, Yakutia.
Yakutia and the Siberian tundra Dog sledding is a special winter event between December and February. Traveling on snowy plains, riding with a group of huskies, discovering the distant wild wilderness areas, in old fashion.
Mountain Biking -Caucasus Trails.
The rocky routes of the Caucasus mountains around Sochi and Kabardino-Balkaria are best mountain biking between May and September. The riders are capable of riding through forest trails, rocky terrain and scenic trails as they experience adrenaline-filled experiences.
Best Places to Eat in Russia
Restaurants
White Rabbit – Fine Dining
White Rabbit is an award-winning restaurant that provides fine-dining and breathtaking views of the city and is situated at the Smolenskaya square in Moscow. It has its signature meal, which is Beef Stroganoff, which is made up of tender beef with creamy mushrooms and presented in a contemporary manner. Its products are a combination of gourmet food and panoramic landscapes making it one of the best places to visit when a food lover.
Mari Vanna – Russian Traditional Cuisine.
Mari Vanna, located on Spiridonovka Street, Moscow, provides the real home-style atmosphere in Russia. The most prominent one here is Pelmeni which are Siberian dumplings with sour cream. The warm interior and the traditional cuisines make it the best place to go when one wants the touch of Russian flavor.
Cafe Pushkin - Historical Chic.
Cafe Pushkin in Moscow is located on Tverskoy Boulevard and is a valuable experience of the cuisine of Russia. Michelson (2015) notes that their special meal is Borscht, a soup of beets cooked in sour cream and herbs. The theme of history supports the theme of real dining.
Teplo – Cozy Contemporary
Teplo, which is situated at Nevsky Prospekt in Saint Petersburg, has a comfortable environment. Their thin pancakes, Blini, which are accompanied by caviar or smoked salmon, are a necessary delicacy and present the traditional Russian tastes in a contemporary manner.
Probka – Italian-Russian Fusion.
Saint Petersburg Probka is a combination of both Italian and Russian cuisine and lies in the Bolshaya Morskaya street. Their Olivier Salad is their potato salad with vegetables and meat that is also prepared in a gourmet manner. It is also perfect for the ones who desire to have a blend of comfort and fancy food.
Street Food
Pirozhki - Small stuffed pies with either meat, cabbage or potatoes. They are ideal as a tasty, fast bite as one tries to visit Russian cities.
Shchi – The traditional cabbage soup which usually is served hot in the markets and food stands. As a warm meal particularly in colder seasons.
Caviar - Caviar is a luxury snack that is consumed on bread or blini. It presents a true flavor of Russian fine cuisine.
Kholodets - Stuffed meat stew served at parties. Travelers who are adventurous ought to experience it as a cultural experience worth making.
Syrniki are pancakes filled with fried quark cheese and served either with jam or honey. Rich, sugary, and a delicacy served in the street in Russia.
Shopping in Russia
Shopping Areas
Arbat Street – Moscow
Arbat Street is the central Moscow street of the historical place, where one may find various boutiques and souvenirs. The visitors will be able to buy the Russian handicrafts, traditional scarfs, Matryoshka dolls and enjoy the shows on the streets and colorful local culture.
GUM Department Store – Moscow
GUM is a luxurious shopping centre that is located on the Red Square and has high-end brands and Russian specialty shops. The most bought ones are designer fashion and gourmet chocolate as well as Fabergé replicas.
Nevsky Prospekt, Saint Petersburg.
The central street of Saint Petersburg is Nevsky Prospekt which is a street that is overrun by shops, cafes, and galleries. Traditional souvenirs, jewelry and amber crafts, and Russian vodka can be picked up by the tourists.
Izmailovsky Market – Moscow
This is a busy market that would be interested in genuine Russian crafts and antiques. Customers have a chance to visit hand-painted lacquer boxes and Soviet-era items and Russian paintings.
Gostiny Dvor Saint Petersburg.
Gostiny Dvor is one of the oldest shopping arcades in Russia and is found close to Nevsky Prospekt. The products that should be purchased are porcelain, classic clothes and decorative glass.
Tsum – Moscow
The luxury Moscow department store is called Tsum and the place to go to make premium purchases. One can find designer products, luxury jewelry, and luxury leather products.
Shopping Tips
Tax-Free Shopping - Find out stores that provide VAT back to the tourists to save money.
Payment systems - Credit/debit cards are common, however, they should carry a little cash to use in markets and small shops.
Local Traditions - It is typical in the markets and not department stores. Observe domestic mannerisms when making purchases.
Store Times - The majority of the stores open between 10 AM and 8 PM; markets can be opened earlier.
Other Good Things to keep in mind: It is important to verify the authenticity of the products, in particular of luxury items and souvenirs, and have a reusable bag to ensure that it is easy to carry around.
How Much Does a Russia Trip Cost?
Price Ranges
Russia is a destination that can fit any budget. Expenditures on budget trips vary between 150,000 and 250,000 rupees, and are generally a combination of cheap air travel, 3-star hotels, minimal sightseeing, and few guided tours. Mid-range tour packages are priced between 250000 to 400000 and include comfortable flights, 4 star hotels and resorts, breakfast every morning, tours around the country, and perhaps a few adventure activities. The basic luxury tours begin at 4,00,000 plus, which includes flights in the business-class, 5-star hotels, fine-dining, personal guides, unique experiences, and customized itinerary.
Cost Breakdown
Flights: 60,000 to 150,000, depending on the class and the city of departure.
Hotels: 3000-15,000 per night, 5-star and 4-star hotels.
Food: 1000-3000 per day of eating out in restaurants and cafes.
Transport: 500 to 2500 in one day- taxis, metro or car hire.
Activities: 1000 to 10000/day sightseeing, museums, cultural shows and adventure sports.
Money-Saving Tips
Book flights in advance in order to get the best Indian airfares.
Shoulder seasons (April–June, September to October) can be also used to avoid the highest prices.
Travel using the public transport such as metro and buses in the city rather than using taxis.
Select sightseeing packages to economize on attractions and museums.
Choose local restaurants and street food in the name of real flavors and cheaper food.
Look at package tours whereby travel agencies provide flights, hotels, and tours as a bundle to save on more.
Common Travel Mistakes in Russia.
Ignoring Visa Requirements - Most of the travelers think they do not need a visa. This can lead to denied entry. Always make an application long before time.
Failure to Learn Simple Russian Phrases - The use of just English may lead to a problem in communication in small towns. Get a couple of basic phrases in greeting, directions, and shopping.
Overpacking in Cold Weather - Winters in Russia are very cold. It will be unpleasant to carry all the light clothes only. Bring in thermal layers, insulated jackets and well-worn-out boots.
Skipping Public Transport - The cost of taking cabs alone is costly. Moscow and Saint Petersburg use the metro and buses, which are efficient, safe, and cost-effective to use.
Not Carrying Cash - Cards are not accepted in some markets and street vendors. Always have a little bit of Russian rubles to buy some trifles and tips.
Going to only Moscow or Saint Petersburg - Travelling to only big cities in Russia is a travesty to the culture. Add other resorts such as Sochi, Kazan or Lake Baikal.
Not Checking Local Holidays - During national holidays, stores and attractions are closed. You should plan your itinerary on official holidays in order to avoid disappointment.
Negligence to take Safety Measures - It may be petty theft that happens in busy places. Lock up valuables and be more alert in tourist attractions.
Expecting Instant Service - The service in the restaurants or the shops can be slower in comparison to India. Patience and politeness; it is an aspect of the local experience.
- Underestimating Distances - Russia is enormous and it may take hours or days to get to another city. Make domestic flight/train plans in advance to save.
