Written/Compiled by MOOK Scenic Spots Travel Life Network, Chen Guanxin | Source/MOOK Editorial Department
Russia, with its vast land spanning across the Eurasian continent and both the Eastern and Western Hemispheres, boasts the largest territory in the world. As the communist era fades into history and the country transitions toward a capitalist social system, it has not only entered a new and unprecedented phase but also...countriesfrom around the globe to this far northern land. In Russia, the Red Square, which encapsulates the spirit and hope of the nation; world-class museums with collections that rival the best globally; the king of classical dance—ballet; as well as the intoxicating flavors of vodka and caviar; and the richly historic grand shopping malls—all shine brilliantly, presenting post-Iron Curtain Russia to the world in dazzling allure.
With its profound cultural and artistic heritage, Russia shatters the frozen stereotypes the world once held. (Image credit/MOOK Editorial Department)
1. Red Square by Day and Night
Just like the Eiffel Tower in Paris or the Statue of Liberty in New York, Red Square is undoubtedly the symbol of Moscow. By day, it's a bustling playground where tourists come and go, excitedly wandering around and leaving their mark. As night falls and the lights go on, the varied buildings around Red Square emit a subtle glow, and the square seems to stretch infinitely in the quiet. No ticket is required—just a three-minute walk from Revolution Square Metro Station. First thing to do in Russia: experience Red Square by day and night.
The daytime and nighttime scenes of Red Square are strikingly different and well worth a closer look. (Image credit/MOOK Editorial Department)
2. World-Class Museums
Culture and art hold a very important place in Russia. However, due to language barriers or limited access, literature, music, and theater may not be very easy for tourists to engage with. Artworks, however, transcend time and space without barriers. The State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg is the largest museum in Russia and one of the largest in the world, housing an astonishing collection of about three million items. In terms of size and collection, the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts in Moscow ranks second in Russia. This neoclassical building, exuding balanced beauty, contains a wealth of ancient civilization art and classical European paintings from various periods.
The rich collection of artworks attracts many art-loving tourists to Russia. (Image credit/MOOK Editorial Department)
3. A Boat Tour of St. Petersburg
Known as the “Venice of the North,” St. Petersburg has 90 waterways totaling 217.5 kilometers, covering 10% of the urban area, and more than 580 bridges within the city. Cruising through the shimmering waters, bridges, and canals is absolutely the most romantic way to experience this magnificent 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. Each trip lasts about 1–1.5 hours, and tickets can be purchased at the dock or on the boat. However, due to the long, harsh northern winters when the water is 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.
Canal cruises are only available from May to September each year—don’t miss your chance if you want to experience them. (Image credit/MOOK Editorial Department)
4. Relaxing in a Russian Banya
Russians’ love for the banya (Russian sauna) has remained unwavering for centuries. Visiting a public bathhouse regularly with friends is one of life’s most anticipated pleasures. Upon entering the steam-filled bath, do not wet your hair or use soap on your body, as it will close your pores. The correct procedure is to first soak birch branches, then gently pat your entire body. Once you adjust, you can pat more firmly—Russians often make loud noises until their skin turns red. Locals believe the heat causes the birch branches to release beneficial elements for the body. Once your body heats up, you can step out for a shower. In modern bathhouses, there are separate warm and cold pools. Start with a warm shower, then try a cold one on the second or third round. After cooling off, sit outside the bathhouse to rest before going back in for another round. To fully enjoy the Russian banya, let your body gradually adapt to the heat. Don’t stay too long in the first round—about five minutes is enough—then take a warm shower, rest, and return for another session.
Just as visiting Turkey calls for experiencing a Turkish bath, coming to Russia means you must try the invigorating relaxation of a Russian banya. (Image credit/MOOK Editorial Department)
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