Russia Travel Guide

Yes, it’s big. And a little imposing. But don’t let the daunting size, challenging language or arduous visa process keep you from venturing into one of Europe’s most fascinating and yet-to-be-overrun-with-tourists destinations. Dive right in to the history in larger-than-life Moscow. The Kremlin, the Red Square and Saint Basil’s Cathedral will top your list, but other treasures, like the Dostoevsky House-Museum and Izmaylovo Country Estate, will make you linger. Long Russia’s “Window to the West,” sophisticated St. Petersburg will seep beneath your skin with its winding canals, tsarist palaces and opulent Baroque architecture. Ride the Trans-Siberian Railway, delve into Siberia, climb Mt. Elbrus. And if you’re really daring, take a birch whipping at a traditional Russian bathhouse. (No, really.)