Russia
Russia has been popular for being the largest nation in the world. A lot of famous museums such as The Hermitage Museum also have their homes in this country. Apart from the beauty of its architectural works, Russia is also blessed with abundant natural beauty. Nature lovers will fall in love with Lake Baikal and the rest of the beautiful mountains, trees and rolling meadows. Russia has been instrumental in producing some great gems in the field of both literature and music – Anton Chekhov, Igor Stravinsky and Leo Tolstoy to name a few.
St. Petersburg
While St. Petersburg today is Russia’s second most important and populated city, it was once the centre of political power in the country. The Tsarist capital of Russia, St. Petersburg is still home to the glorious heritage of the dynasty, reflected in it’s museums, gardens and many stunning palaces. The city of St. Petersburg captures the imperial history of Russia to perfection. A few days spent here and you will come to realise the grandeur with which the Tsars rules the vast land for two long centuries. There are tons of museums throughout the city, most of them set in imperial buildings, displaying various facets of Russian history. The Hermitage Museum, for example, is one of the world’s finest art collections, occupying a total of 6 major buildings.
Hermitage Museum
A monumental museum situated across 6 buildings on the Palace Embankment. It is one of the largest and oldest museums of art and culture in the world, with a collection of over 3 million items! The Hermitage Museum is one of Russia’s most important museums. It is home to one of the biggest collections anywhere in the world, and has a long history since it was established 1764 by Catherine the Great. The museum has several exhibitions dedicated to various styles and eras, such as the Italian Renaissance, the Italian and Spanish fine arts, the Impressionists and post-Impressionists and so on. The museum has acquired over the years several paintings of the greatest artists ever known to man – Rembrandt, Raphael, Anthony van Dyck, Holbein and of neoclassical, modern and post-Impressionists such as Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, Matisse among several others. Church of the Saviour on Spilled Blood, St. Petersburg Overview This historic church was built on the location where Alexander II was fatally wounded, and is an absolute sight to behold. After initiating several reforms in Russia never taken before, Alexander II was subject to many assassination attempts. The one which succeeded was at the location of the church we see today, when he was mortally wounded by a bomb thrown at him. This imposing cathedral was funded solely by the imperial family and private donors, and is one of the most stunning structures in all of St. Petersburg. The architecture is unlike the Baroque and Neoclassical styles predominant throughout the buildings of that period, and was actually built in classical Russian architecture.
St. Isaac’s Cathedral
St. Isaac’s Cathedral is the largest orthodox basilica in the world, with stunning Russian-Byzantine architecture and a fully gold plated dome. It serves as both a cathedral and museum today. This magnificent cathedral was completed in 1858, after 40 years of detailed work. The faade of the cathedral is adorned with intricate work, and massive granite columns, a total of 112 of which are used in the entire church. The gold dome at the top is surrounded by 12 statues of angels, which were made by a technology called electrotyping, which meant they are extremely light and thin yet sturdy. This was the first such use of electrotyping at that time. The interiors of the church, as you’d expect, are elaborately decorated with mosaics, along with a huge stained glass window of the ‘Resurrected Christ’ inside the main altar. In 1931, it was turned into the Museum of Religion and Atheism by the new communist regime. Though after the fall of USSR the church resumed it’s regular worship services, it is still used as a popular tourist museum today.
Winter Palace
The Imperial Palace of St. Petersburg and the residence of the Tsars. Today it is the main building of the Hermitage Museum. The Winter Palace is the single most popular building in St. Petersburg. It has the richest of imperial histories, and still holds all of it’s grandeur from it’s glory days. The palace design we see today was completed in the 1760s in the Russian Baroque style, and is a piece of genius by the architect Bartholomeo Rastrelli, who’s magnificent works are seen in many imperial buildings of St. Petersburg. The palace is in the shape of a square, with a courtyard in the centre. Inside, it has nearly 1500 rooms. The Hermitage collection was always housed in the Winter Palace, however today it has become the primary reason for the millions that visit the palace everyday. The banquets, rooms, galleries and the intricate architecture inside this massive palace just cannot be missed. The imperial glory of the Winter Palace was restored after the fall of the communist regime, and you have not visited St. Petersburg without visiting the Winter Palace.
Moscow
Moscow is Russia’s capital, and its cultural, economic and political heart. It is the largest and the most populated city in Russia, and also a city of huge global influence. It is the country’s biggest tourist destination, home to some of the most historic architectural works in the country. Moscow is a city with a very rich past. It served as Russia’s capital for a long time and after the Bolshevik Revolution became the capital of Russia again. It has one of the best collections of architectural structures in the world. The Kremlin, which serves as the residence of the Russian President today, is an emphatic complex of palaces, cathedrals and walls. The iconic St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most unique cathedrals you’ll find anywhere in the world. Moscow has a huge number of museums as well, displaying artworks from throughout the history of Russia. There is even a display of priceless jewellery and state regalia in the Kremlin Armoury. Apart from that, Moscow is home to many splendid gardens and parks that find their origins in the imperial era.
Red Square
The Red Square is the most popular city plaza in Moscow. It is the location of various popular tourist attractions, such as the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, Lenin’s Mausoleum, State Historical Museum, GUM shopping mall and the Kazan Cathedral. If you watch a lot of Hollywood movies, you would’ve noticed the Red Square many times. It is a massive city plaza, often considered as the centre of Moscow since a majority of Moscow’s major streets originate here. It was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with the Kremlin building, due to their major role in Russian history. The Red Square is the most popular area in Moscow due to the fact that it houses Moscow’s most popular attractions. The St. Basil’s Cathedral is a fantastic 16th century cathedral, which today serves as a museum.
St. Basil’s Cathedral
The cathedral is an absolutely stunning piece of architecture. It is painted in unique and unusual colours and is Moscow’s most popular tourist attraction. The central idea behind the architecture of the cathedral is debated till this date. It has not been ascertained even today as to what inspired Barma and Postnek Yakovlev to come up with the design that they have. The cathedral was initially built in white, but was painted in dazzling colours and patterns as we see it today in the 17th century. The layout has 8 smaller churches surrounding the central 9th church, as opposed to the usual 7 surrounding the centre. Today, St. Basil’s Cathedral serves as a museum, allowing visitors to see the simply breathtaking interiors and the intricacy of the work that was put into it’s construction. It is truly a spectacle and an absolutely enchanting sight at night when it lights up!
Bolshoi Theatre
A historic theatre of ballet and opera and the second largest opera house in all of Europe. It is also renowned for it’s classical Russian architecture. While the company was founded back in 1776, the magnificent building we see today was completed in 1824. Since then, it has served as Russia’s national theatre. All white in colour, with 8 columns, intricate detailing on the facade and the ‘quadriga’ adorned at the entrance, the theatre is truly a stunning example of classical Russian architecture. The performances in the theatre are mostly of Russian origins, with a few foreign performances also taking places. The Bolshoi Ballet and Opera companies are counted amongst the most reputable companies all over the world, with the ballet company actually being the largest in the world. This is definitely a must for lovers of opera and ballet. You can check the listings of performances to decide when to go and the grandeur and the atmosphere of this theatre is sure to make it worth the visit.
Alexander Garden
The Alexander Garden is one of the most crowded parks in Moscow, adorned with many monuments and attractions, and is truly a spectacular and calm oasis in the big bustling city. The park stretches along the western wall of the Kremlin and on the other edge has the Moscow Manege. The park was constructed after Napoleon and the French were defeated, on orders of Tsar Alexander I. The damage that had been done to the city is symbolically represented in one of the major monuments of the park, the Grotto, which was intentionally made to look like a ruined monument. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, whose eternal flame is always guarded by sentinels. The view of the Moscow Kremlin that you get from the garden as well, is something which could alone be the reason for you to visit the place, giving you access to some parts of the wall and towers which you can’t get from anywhere else. There’s more, the Negglinayya river, which was initially put under the ground, was artificially recreated, adds a lovely charm to the entire gardens. As you explore this entire park, you will not be able to miss the sprawling flower beds that have been laid out to capture your imagination, making the Alexander Garden an absolutely awe-inspiring experience.
Siberia
The Siberian Federal District covers 30% area of its country, Russia. Holding over a dozen cities, Siberia boasts of the deepest lake in the world, Lake Baikal. Siberia is an ideal location for travellers who want to encounter with the untouched beauty of nature, mighty mountains, and unexplored enigmas. Known for its extremely harsh winters, Siberia has a lot to offer. From the crown of Siberia ‘Lake Baikal’ to the rides in Trans-Siberian railway; from the fascinating Altai mountains to picture-perfect cities- Siberia has its own ways to entice its visitors. Cities like Novosibirsk, Tomsk, Irkutsk, Ulan-Ude, Omsk and Krasnoyarsk take pride in their own beauties. Novosibirsk is not just the capital of Siberia, but also the most pulsating city with thriving cultural scenes. Tomsk is an architectural heaven absolutely one of its kind, offering you endless photographic spots. Irkutsk is not just the gateway to Lake Baikal, but also a great exemplar of contrasts of the new and old. Ulan-Ude is a tranquil Buddhist city you definitely can’t miss to visit. Some breathtaking destinations to explore in Siberia other than the lake are Ulkok Plateau, Lena River, Sayan Mountains, Chara Sands and Ergaki National Park.
Lake Baikal
The deepest lake in the world, Lake Baikal is a must-see if you’re planning your trip to Russia. It has been entitled as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. You can’t put Lake Baikal off your list if you’re visiting Siberia. A spectacular landscape of clear blue water surrounded with lush green surroundings that captivates you in its charm so badly, that you can’t get over it.With a depth of about 1620 metres, this freshwater lake is home to some indigenous animals like nerpas. Even if you visit the lake during winter, you get assured breathtaking views of the frozen lake, as well as some ‘chilling’ icy-activities. What a splendor it might feel standing (virtually) on the deepest lake in the world!
Exploring the cities
Cities in Siberia have somehow tried to retain the essence of their good-old times in spite of the continuous growth and development. One must definitely visit the Siberian cities to indulge into the Russian affair. Irkutsk has some beautiful wooden and stone buildings, some museums, churches as well as central markets. Novosibirsk is the 3rd largest city in Russia and has some strong cultural flavors and interesting museums and monuments. The wooden architecture in Tomsk is so appealing that you wouldn’t want to keep your camera inside the bag. Ulan Ude is a centre of Buddhist Buryat culture, and hence you’d find classic monastries and some other attractions including the Winter palace of Bogd Khaan as well as a museum and gallery.
Altai Mountains
The majestic mountains of Altai stretch over 2000 km with the highest point 4500 meter above the sea level. The Altai mountains have always been in the spotlight of Siberian tourism. You can go for hiking, climbing, rafting, or just spend some lovely time with your family in the woods. The Altai Republic also has two museums which are definitely worth a visit- Altai Museum of Regional Studies and History, and Altai State Art Museum.
Trans-Siberian Railway
The legendary Trans-Siberian Railway boasts the longest rail road in the world, with 9,289 kilometers of rails. The Great Siberian Route is so amazing that you can travel the entire country just by sitting inside the train holding a cup of coffee in your hand marvelling at the awe-inspiring sights outside the window. It is the best way to inhale the true essence of Russia, combined with excellent services right inside the carriage. The rail stops at most of the significant towns and cities; and you can even plan to get down at a city station and spend some pleasant time there in solace.
Sochi
Sochi is an idyllic seaside retreat that attracts hundreds of people to it each year, including celebrities and renowned politicians. In 2014, Sochi hosted the Winter Olympics, making it even more popular amongst tourists across the globe. The city is also called the Black Sea Pearl. Think picturesque mountains, pretty shingle beaches and a nightlife to die for! Sochi is a popular spot among tourists, attracting a whopping total of more than 4 million visitors each year. It also has something on offer for everyone _ parks for nature lovers, museums and other sites for history lovers and beautiful beaches for some true R&R.
Rosa Khutor Ski Resort
This is a very popular ski resort, located close to the Krasnaya Polyana. It has fun activities for everyone and makes for an ideal way to spend your day at Sochi. Hiking, skiing and cycling are all available here at Rosa Khutor Ski Resort. They have a snowmaking system, thus allowing you to enjoy skiing right from November to April. Lake Road, Panama, Magical Forest and Forbidden Valley are some scenic routes at this resort that you can stroll along.
Park Arboretum
If you absolutely love exotic plants, birds and animals, do visit the Park Arboretum in Sochi, which includes lots of rare plants as well as a floral arena or arboretum, with birds and animals. Park Arboretum boasts of a rare collection of flora and fauna belonging to the Russian subtropics. Their collection of the same goes over 1,800 in number! After viewing all the greenery on display, visit the floral arboretum and see if you can spot the rare birds and animals living there. End your visit by taking the cable car in the arboretum, which offers you a stunning view of the surrounding mountains as well as the sea.
33 Waterfalls
This is a UNESCO site and an area of great pride for the residents of Sochi. A collection of 33 waterfalls, all varying in their height, gush down the mountains, making for a beautiful picture. Trek up from Bolshoy Kichmay to view this stupendous site. These waterfalls are a part of the Dzhegosh Stream. It is best to visit this place during the spring season. Spring means that the snow on the Caucasus mountains will melt, leading to more water being formed and thus, a greater force.
Stalin’s Villa
History lovers should not leave Sochi without stepping into StalinÍs villa. Stalin had this villa built some years before World War II and it is visited each year by thousands of people. Located in the middle of Agura Canyon and Matsestinskaya Valley, StalinÍs green villa sits neatly at the top of a mountain. Visitors can view most of the rooms inside, one of which is a museum, converted from StalinÍs little cinema and billiards room. There are guides there, who speak English and who will tell you all about StalinÍs life and the history behind his villa.
The Singing Fountains
This is SochiÍs most visited tourist attraction, built back in 1970 and is a beautiful place to visit while youÍre in the city. The Singing Fountains are situated close to the Sochi Trade Gallery. There are pools and streams aplenty here and a wonderful VFX system in place. This gives you the illusion of a singing, dancing fountain. However, these fountains are active and switched on only during summer time and mostly once it begins to get dark