10 Practical Tips for Traveling in Russia
Practical Tips
2026-10-02
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Cash, e-visas, church dress codes, and metro navigation—these 10 tips can make or break your trip to Russia.
- Cash is king: International Visa/Mastercard cards are largely unusable in Russia. Bring enough Russian rubles in cash and have a UnionPay card as backup.
- Apply for your e-visa in advance: Confirm that your entry point supports e-visas, and keep the visa PDF and hotel booking confirmation handy.
- Download the Yandex suite: Essential apps include Yandex Maps for navigation, Yandex Go for rides, and Yandex Translate for language help.
- Carry your passport at all times: Russian police can ask to see ID, and both hotel check-in and train boarding require your passport.
- Follow church etiquette: Women should cover their heads with a scarf, and men should remove their hats. Always check if photography is allowed before taking pictures.
- Book tickets in advance: Popular attractions like the Hermitage, Catherine Palace, and Mariinsky Theatre often sell out weeks ahead for high-demand shows.
- Choose your train berth wisely: Long-distance sleeper trains offer hard and soft sleepers. Second-class platzkart cars are open-plan—first-time travelers may prefer a private compartment.
- Pack for winter: When temperatures drop below –20°C, dress in three layers: thermal base, insulating layer (like down), and windproof outer shell. Waterproof snow boots with good grip are essential.
- Watch currency fluctuations: Exchange rubles in batches, and base your shopping budget on real-time exchange rates.
- Keep your immigration card: The customs control portion of your entry card is checked when checking into hotels or boarding transport, and must be returned when you leave the country.
- Be cautious when taking photos: Photography is prohibited near military or police facilities, in airport security zones, and at some government buildings.
- Prepare for limited English: English isn’t widely spoken. Save your hotel’s address as a Russian-language screenshot to show drivers or ask for directions.
- Get travel insurance: Private clinics in Russia can be expensive and require cash payment. Choose a policy that includes medical evacuation.
- Save emergency numbers: The universal emergency number is 112; police is 102, and ambulance is 103. Also save your embassy and consular assistance contact details.