8 Best Places To Visit in Russia Before You Die

 Some of the best places to visit in Russia before you die  are on this list, but it’s hardly even the tip of the iceberg. Considering the sheer size of this massive country, it would be impossible to cover even half of the attractions located here in one go. So here’s a few to start you off, and as you might know, there’s a particular famous attraction that actually brings you to the country’s most famous destinations…

The Trans-Siberian Railway is arguably the most incredible way to discover Russia. Should you decide to take this once-in-a-lifetime train ride, you can span nearly the entire continent. It runs from Moscow to Vladivostok, and you choose to stop as many times as you like.

Romas_Photo/Shutterstock.com

Romas_Photo/Shutterstock.com

Russia is a country that is rich in history, culture, and nature’s wonders, as well. There sure are some fantastic places to visit in Croatia before you die, as well as some of the other Eastern European countries that border or are near Russia, but none of them would take the amount of time you would need to cover Russia. So where to begin? Hiking the forest trails? Climbing up some of the tallest mountains or visiting the oldest lake in the world? What about gorgeous port cities, the cultural capital or the iconic landmarks? Good thing you don’t have to choose, they are already on this list, the only questions is, what other best places to visit in Russia before you diel will you add?

 

8. Mount Elbrus

On the list with the Seven Summits of the world, this incredible dormant volcano can either be hiked by adventurers or reached by taking a cable car up by the more relaxed day trippers. The cable car gets you up to 3,800 meters out of the over 5,000 meters it is to the top.

Mikhail Pogosov/Shutterstock.com

Mikhail Pogosov/Shutterstock.com

 

7. Valley of Geysers

Does the thought of a field of geysers appeal to you? Imagine seeing one geyser, then an entire field of them, the second largest in the world, in fact. It’s truly a magnificent sight and not your everyday tourist attraction.

Vadim Petrakov/Shutterstock.com

Vadim Petrakov/Shutterstock.com

 

6. Novgorod

If it’s more antiquity you are seeking, Novgorod is the spot to head too. This is one of the oldest towns in the country and holds one of the oldest buildings, Cathedral of St Sophia. The Church of Our Savior-at-Ilino, streets lined with frescoes buildings, and views from the Volkhov River can be enjoyed from Yuriev Monastery.

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5. Yekaterinburg

An exciting attraction just outside the city is the Euro-Asia border. Here’s your chance to stand on two continents at the same time! The Byzantine churches and Monasteries of Martyrs are worth a visit, but the main attraction, if you’re a nature-lover, is the Ural Mountains. Summer calls for hiking through the rich green forests or pick up a winter sport if it’s snowing outside.

ET1972 / Shutterstock.com

ET1972 / Shutterstock.com

 

4. Vladivostok

This port beauty is thousands of miles from the nation’s capital on the Pacific Ocean. With the ocean on the horizon and a modern city behind it, this is certainly one of the prettiest cities in the country. Entertainment, a lively harbor, and excellent cuisine being served up are just the beginning.

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3. Lake Baikal

Talk about an old wise one, this lake here is not only the oldest, but also the deepest on our planet. Over 20 million years this lake has lived and its spectacular display is encompassed by majestic mountains. It’s considered to be one of the most crystal clear lakes ever seen. So do you really need any more for a reason to visit?

ALEKSANDR RIUTIN/Shutterstock.com

ALEKSANDR RIUTIN/Shutterstock.com

 

2. St. Petersburg

One of the country’s most historical and cultural cities is St. Petersburg. The edgy megapolis is home to some 2,000 libraries, hundreds of museums, and if you’re into the performing arts, you only have about 80 theaters to choose from. We hope it’s enough. The boho cafes, happening nightlife, and premier shopping are on point, and the historic city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of a network of canals and architectural wonders.

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And, the best place to visit in Russia before you die is: Moscow

Not surprising to see at the ultimate stop in Russia here, it’s no secret. Moscow is a fabulous city that has a lot to offer. This sophisticated capital plays host to some top notch establishments. Dining, shopping, art galleries and more are world-class, the nightlife scene is thriving, and culture is oozing out from every corner. There are of course the must-see’s such as the Red Square that is home to the world-famous Kremlin and St. Basil’s Cathedral, and there are plenty of other notable historic sites that are dotted around this marvelous city; you’re just going to have to see for yourself.

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We love these best places to visit in Russia before you die, but there are so many more! What to add?