Set foot on the world’s largest country and discover the timeless cultural and artistic splendor of Russia

Written/Compiled & Reported by MOOK Travel Life Network’s Chen Guanxin | Source/MOOK Editorial Department

Russia, spanning both Europe and Asia and straddling the Eastern and Western Hemispheres, boasts the largest land area in the world. As the communist era gave way to history and the nation transitioned toward a capitalist social system, it not only ushered in an unprecedented new chapter for Russia but also...countriesaround the world have been drawn to this distant northern land. In Russia, you’ll find landmarks that embody the spirit and hope of the nation—the Red Square, world-class museums housing collections unmatched anywhere else, ballet—the king of classical dance—along with the intoxicating flavors of vodka and caviar, and opulent historic shopping arcades. All of these showcase post-Curtain Russia in dazzling brilliance to the world.

1. The Red Square Day and Night

Just as the Eiffel Tower symbolizes Paris and the Statue of Liberty represents New York, the Red Square is undoubtedly the emblem of Moscow. By day, it’s a bustling playground where tourists come and go, excitedly wandering around and leaving their mark. When night falls and the lights go up, the various architectural forms around the square emit a subtle glow, and the plaza seems to expand infinitely under the quiet. No admission fee is required—just a three-minute walk from Revolution Square Metro Station. First thing upon arriving in Russia? Experience the Red Square day and night.

2. World-Class Museums

Culture and art hold a highly significant place in Russia. However, due to language barriers or difficult access, literature, music, and theater may not be very accessible to tourists, but artworks transcend time and space without such barriers. The Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg is the largest museum in Russia and one of the biggest in the world, boasting an astonishing collection of about three million items. In terms of scale and collection, the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts in Moscow ranks second in Russia. This building, exuding the balanced beauty of neoclassicism, houses a wealth of ancient art and European classical paintings from various periods.

3. A Boat Tour of St. Petersburg

Known as the “Venice of the North,” St. Petersburg has 90 waterways covering a total length of 217.5 kilometers, accounting for 10% of the city’s area, and more than 580 bridges. Taking a boat ride through the shimmering waters, bridges, and canals is absolutely the most romantic way to experience this great city. There are four main routes for canal tours in the city, with boats departing every 20–30 minutes starting at 11:00 am daily, and each trip lasting about 1 to 1.5 hours. Tickets can be purchased at the docks or on board. However, since the long northern winters leave the waterways frozen, boating is only possible from May to September each year. If you want to experience the charm of the canals, be sure to plan your visit during this period.

4. A Rejuvenating Russian Bath

Russians’ love for the banya has remained unwavering for centuries. Going to a public bathhouse weekly to meet up with familiar friends is considered one of life’s great pleasures. Upon entering the steam-filled bath, do not wet your hair or use soap on your body, as this will close your pores. The proper procedure is to first soak birch twigs and leaves, then gently pat your whole body. Once you get used to it, you can pat more vigorously. Russians often make loud noises while doing so until their whole body turns red. Locals believe the heat from the birch releases beneficial elements for the body. After your body heats up, you can go out for a rinse. In modern bathhouses, there are separate warm and cold pools. For the first round, start with warm water, and then try cold water in the second or third round. After cooling off, you can sit outside the bathhouse and rest before going back in for another round. To truly enjoy the Russian bath, you need to gradually let your body adapt to the high temperatures. Don’t stay too long in the bathhouse during the first round—about five minutes is enough—then step out for a warm rinse, rest, and return for the next session.