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Travel in Russia: the practical guide

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Saint Basil's Cathedral and its colourful domes in Moscow
Contents

In short: Moscow and Saint Petersburg are the two great cities to discover, linked by the fast Sapsan train. You need a visa (an e-visa for short stays) and a connection, in Istanbul, Belgrade or Dubai, as there are no direct flights from the European Union.

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Entry requirements: the visa

  • Citizens of many countries, including France, can apply for a unified e-visa for a short stay (up to 16 days), online on the official website of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
  • For a longer stay, you need a standard visa from the consular services.
  • Your passport must be valid for at least six months.

Check the latest rules for your nationality before you go.

Getting there

There are no direct flights between the European Union and Russia. You need a connection, notably in Istanbul, Belgrade or Dubai, to Moscow or Saint Petersburg.

When to go

  • May to September: the best time; in Saint Petersburg, the White Nights (late May to July), when it stays almost light all night.
  • Winter: very cold and snowy, but magical for snow-covered monuments; pack warm clothes.

Getting around

  • In town: the Moscow metro, famous for its decorated stations, and the Saint Petersburg metro are fast and frequent.
  • Between the two cities: the high-speed Sapsan train in about 4 hours, or a night train.

Internet

Russia is not part of the European Union: check your operator’s terms, or install a travel eSIM.

What to see in Russia

  • Moscow: Red Square, the Kremlin, Saint Basil’s Cathedral, the Bolshoi Theatre, the Tretyakov Gallery, the metro stations.
  • Saint Petersburg: the Hermitage and the Winter Palace, the canals, Saint Isaac’s Cathedral, Peterhof and its fountains.
  • And also: the Golden Ring (Vladimir, Suzdal), Kazan.

Where to stay

Our Moscow and Saint Petersburg pages present the best areas for your travel style.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a visa for Russia?

Yes. Citizens of many countries, including France, can apply for a unified e-visa for a short stay (up to 16 days), online on the official website of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs; longer stays require a standard visa. Your passport must be valid for at least six months.

How do I get to Russia from the EU?

There are no direct flights between the European Union and Russia: you need a connection, notably in Istanbul, Belgrade or Dubai.

How do I get from Moscow to Saint Petersburg?

The high-speed Sapsan train links the two cities in about 4 hours, centre to centre. Night trains also run.

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