How to apply for an e-visa, why cash is essential, when to see the White Nights and Blue Ice—get everything sorted before you go.
Visas & Entry
Most foreign visitors need a visa to enter Russia: individual travelers can apply for an e-visa (electronic visa) by filling out a form on the Russian Foreign Ministry’s official website. Processing usually takes 4–10 days, and the visa is valid for a single entry and about 16 days of stay, and is accepted at most major entry points. For longer trips or multiple entries, apply for a paper visa through a travel agency. Those joining a group tour registered with both countries can enter visa-free. Be sure to fill out and keep your immigration card upon arrival; hotels will register your stay.
Best Time to Visit
- Summer (June–August): Ideal for visiting the Golden Ring cities and St. Petersburg. Enjoy the White Nights and Scarlet Sails Festival in St. Petersburg (June–July), with temperatures between 15–25°C.
- Blue Ice Season (mid-February to mid-March): The clearest ice on Lake Baikal, with stunning blue ice and bubble ice formations on Olkhon Island.
- Winter (December–February): Snowy landscapes and New Year festivities in Moscow and St. Petersburg, plus aurora viewing in Murmansk.
- Golden Autumn (mid-September to early October): Golden foliage in country estates and tree-lined avenues, fewer crowds and lower prices.
Budget Reference (Per Person Per Day, Excluding Flights)
| Category | Daily Budget | Description |
|---|
| Budget | $49–$77 | Hostels/budget hotels, coffee chains, and cafeteria-style restaurants |
| Comfortable | $99–$170 | 3–4 star hotels, Russian restaurants, and theater performances |
| High-End | $255 and above | Palace hotels, front-row seats at the Mariinsky Theatre, private guided tours |
The ruble exchange rate fluctuates significantly—always check the current rate. Since foreign cards are difficult to use in Russia, make sure to bring enough cash to cover your entire trip.
Etiquette & Taboos
- Women should wear a headscarf and men remove their hats when entering an Orthodox church. Skirts should cover the knees, and no loud talking is allowed inside.
- Russians shake hands to greet, but men should wait for a woman to extend her hand first.
- Maintain a respectful demeanor at historical sites (such as during the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier).
- Don’t put empty bottles back on the table, and remember there’s an order to toasts during Russian banquets.
- Stand on the right side of escalators in subway stations, leaving the left for those in a hurry.