Planning a 10-Day Russia Itinerary: Moscow, Saint Petersburg & Beyond

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Russia, a land of imperial grandeur, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. This 10-day itinerary focuses on the iconic cities of Moscow and Saint Petersburg, offering flexible options to venture further afield and discover more of this vast nation.

Why Visit Russia?

Russia captivates with its rich history, artistic masterpieces, and architectural wonders. From the opulent palaces of the Tsars to the Soviet-era monuments, every corner tells a story. Beyond the urban centers, you'll find diverse natural beauty, from the Black Sea coast to the Siberian wilderness.

Essential Planning Tips

Visa and Entry

Most foreign visitors require a visa to enter Russia. It's crucial to research the specific requirements for your nationality well in advance and apply through the official channels. Ensure your passport has sufficient validity beyond your intended departure date.

Best Time to Visit

The shoulder seasons (May-June and September-early October) often offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer (July-August) is popular, especially for Saint Petersburg's White Nights, but can be warm and busy. Winter (November-April) transforms the country into a snowy wonderland, ideal for those who enjoy colder climates and festive atmospheres.

Getting Around

Russia boasts an extensive and efficient public transport system. For inter-city travel between Moscow and Saint Petersburg, the Sapsan high-speed train is highly recommended, offering comfort and speed. Domestic flights connect major cities for longer distances. Within cities, the metro systems (especially in Moscow and Saint Petersburg) are fast, reliable, and often works of art themselves.

The Itinerary: Moscow & Saint Petersburg (Days 1-8)

Days 1-4: Majestic Moscow

Begin your Russian adventure in the dynamic capital, a city where ancient history meets modern ambition.

Day 1: Red Square & Kremlin.Arrive in Moscow. Settle in and head straight to the iconic Red Square. Marvel at the vibrant domes of St. Basil's Cathedral, explore GUM department store, and walk along the walls of the Moscow Kremlin. Consider an evening stroll to see the illuminated landmarks.
Day 2: Inside the Kremlin & Museums.Dedicate the morning to exploring the Moscow Kremlin's treasures: visit the Armory Chamber, Cathedral Square, and the Diamond Fund (separate ticket). In the afternoon, immerse yourself in art at the State Tretyakov Gallery, home to an unparalleled collection of Russian fine art.
Day 3: Metro & Culture.Discover Moscow's stunning metro stations, often dubbed "underground palaces," known for their intricate architecture and artwork. Afterwards, visit the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts or explore the vibrant Arbat Street.
Day 4: Day Trip to the Golden Ring.Take a day trip to one of the historic cities of the Golden Ring, such as Sergiev Posad. This spiritual heart of Russia is home to the stunning Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a significant monastery.

Fun Fact:The Moscow Metro has over 250 stations, and some of the most beautiful are Ploshchad Revolyutsii, Komsomolskaya, and Mayakovskaya, each a unique architectural marvel.

Day 5: High-Speed Train to Saint Petersburg

Enjoy a scenic morning ride on the Sapsan high-speed train from Moscow to Saint Petersburg (approximately 4 hours). Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and begin exploring the elegant "Venice of the North." Stroll along Nevsky Prospekt, soaking in the city's sophisticated atmosphere.

Days 6-8: Imperial Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg, founded by Peter the Great, is a city of canals, world-class museums, and magnificent palaces.

Day 6: Hermitage & Palace Square.Dedicate your day to the legendary State Hermitage Museum, housed within the opulent Winter Palace. This is one of the largest and oldest museums in the world. Afterwards, explore the grandeur of Palace Square and the surrounding Saint Petersburg Old Town.
Day 7: Churches & Canals.Visit the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, famous for its colorful onion domes and elaborate mosaics. Ascend the colonnade of St. Isaac's Cathedral for panoramic city views. Consider a relaxing canal cruise to experience Saint Petersburg from a different perspective.
Day 8: Imperial Palaces Day Trip.Take a day trip to the magnificent suburban palaces. Options include Peterhof, known for its stunning fountains and gardens (best visited late May to early October), or Catherine Palace in Pushkin, home to the breathtaking Amber Room.

Beyond Moscow & Saint Petersburg (Days 9-10)

For your final two days, consider extending your exploration beyond the two main cities. Here are a few options, depending on your interests and travel style:

Option A: Delve Deeper into History & Culture

Veliky Novgorod:Easily accessible by train from Saint Petersburg (around 3 hours), this ancient city is considered the birthplace of Russian democracy. Explore its Kremlin, St. Sophia Cathedral, and the Open-Air Museum of Wooden Architecture.
Kazan:A short flight from Moscow, Kazan is the capital of Tatarstan and a fascinating blend of Russian and Tatar cultures. Visit the Kazan Kremlin, a UNESCO site with its iconic Kul Sharif Mosque and Annunciation Cathedral. Experience the unique cultural fusion of this vibrant city.
Volgograd:Fly to Volgograd to experience a city steeped in WWII history. Visit the Mamayev Kurgan memorial complex, dominated by the colossal "Motherland Calls" statue, commemorating the Battle of Stalingrad.

Option B: A Taste of Nature & Adventure

Sochi:Fly to Sochi, Russia's Black Sea resort city, known for its subtropical climate and Olympic legacy. Relax on the beaches, explore the arboretum, or head into the nearby Caucasus Mountains for hiking and scenic views.
Yekaterinburg:For a brief glimpse into Siberia, take a flight to Yekaterinburg, located on the border between Europe and Asia. Explore its fascinating history, including the Church on the Blood and the European-Asian Obelisk.
Krasnoyarsk&Stolby Nature Reserve:A longer flight from Moscow,Krasnoyarsk offers stunning natural beauty. Spend a day hiking among the unique rock formations of the Stolby Nature Reserve, a truly spectacular natural park. (This option requires careful flight planning for 2 days).

Option C: Unique European Enclave

Kaliningrad:Fly to Kaliningrad, Russia's westernmost territory, an exclave nestled between Poland and Lithuania. Explore its unique history as Königsberg, visit the Cathedral, and wander through the charming fishing village of Rybnaya Derevnya.

Practical Tips for Your Russian Journey

Language:While many younger people in major cities speak English, learning a few basic Russian phrases (hello, thank you, excuse me) and familiarizing yourself with the Cyrillic alphabet will be immensely helpful.
Currency:The official currency is the Russian Ruble (RUB). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but it's wise to carry some cash for smaller purchases or local markets.
Safety:Russia is generally safe for tourists. As in any major city, be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and take standard precautions against pickpocketing.
Cuisine:Don't miss trying traditional Russian dishes! Sample borscht (beetroot soup), pelmeni (dumplings), blini (pancakes), and beef stroganoff.
Connectivity:Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for easy data access.

Conclusion

A 10-day journey through Russia's heartland offers an incredible blend of history, culture, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you stick to the imperial grandeur of Moscow and Saint Petersburg or venture further to explore ancient cities or natural wonders, Russia promises a trip of a lifetime. Start planning your adventure today!