Russia And Northern Eurasia Map
If you’re planning a trip to Russia and Northern Eurasia, this travel guide has got you covered. Explore the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
Start your trip by visiting the iconic Red Square in Moscow, where you can see St. Basil’s Cathedral and the Kremlin. Head to the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg to admire the art collection of Catherine the Great. Don’t miss the stunning Lake Baikal, the deepest lake in the world, located in Siberia.
Hidden Gems
One of the hidden gems of Russia is the Solovetsky Islands, a remote archipelago in the White Sea with a fascinating history. In Kazakhstan, visit the Charyn Canyon, nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia,” for breathtaking views.
Food Scene
Try traditional Russian dishes like borscht, pelmeni, and blini. In Georgia, indulge in khachapuri, a cheese-filled bread, and khinkali, dumplings filled with meat or cheese.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Consider staying in a hostel or Airbnb instead of a hotel, and take advantage of public transportation. Many museums and attractions offer free admission on certain days.
Outdoor Adventures
Explore the Altai Mountains in Siberia, hike the Caucasus Mountains in Georgia, or go skiing in Sochi. The Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia is also a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Historical Landmarks
Visit the ancient city of Kazan, known for its stunning mosque and kremlin. In Uzbekistan, explore the historic cities of Bukhara and Samarkand, both on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Family-Friendly Activities
Take a trip to the Moscow Zoo or the Oceanarium in Vladivostok. The Elbrus region in Russia offers family-friendly skiing and snowboarding options.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Visit the Russian village of Suzdal, known for its picturesque churches and monasteries. In Kyrgyzstan, stay in a yurt and experience the traditional nomadic way of life.
Natural Wonders
Aside from Lake Baikal, Russia and Northern Eurasia are home to other natural wonders like the Valley of Geysers in Kamchatka, the Kolsai Lakes in Kazakhstan, and the Saryarka Desert in Uzbekistan.
Vibrant Nightlife
Experience the nightlife scene in Moscow, with its trendy bars and clubs. In Georgia, head to Tbilisi for a lively atmosphere and unique wine bars.
Local Markets
Visit the Izmailovsky Market in Moscow for souvenirs and traditional crafts. In Uzbekistan, explore the Chorsu Bazaar in Tashkent for fresh produce and spices.
Beaches and Mountains
Sochi is known for its beaches and the nearby Caucasus Mountains, making it a great destination for both sun and snow. In Kazakhstan, head to the Caspian Sea for a beach vacation.
Cultural Immersion
Experience traditional Kazakh culture by attending a horse race or visiting a yurt. In Russia, attend a ballet performance at the Bolshoi Theatre or visit a traditional banya (sauna).
Art and Music Scene
Explore the contemporary art scene in St. Petersburg, with its many galleries and museums. In Georgia, attend the Tbilisi Jazz Festival for world-class music.
Walking Tours
Take a walking tour of the historic center of Moscow or explore the Old Town of Tbilisi. In Kazakhstan, visit the Almaty Green Bazaar on foot.
Architectural Marvels
Visit the Cathedral of Christ the Savior in Moscow, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world. In Uzbekistan, admire the intricate tilework of the Registan in Samarkand.
Historical Sites
Explore the Gulag Museum in Moscow to learn about the Soviet labor camps. In Kazakhstan, visit the Akmolinsk Camp, which was once a site of political repression.
Biking Routes
Explore the countryside of Belarus on a bike ride through the Berezinsky Biosphere Reserve. In Kazakhstan, bike along the Silk Road, an ancient trade route.
Wellness Retreats
Relax at a traditional Russian banya, which offers sauna and steam room treatments. In Georgia, visit the Tskaltubo Spa Resort for natural hot springs.
Adventure Sports
Try your hand at ice climbing in the Caucasus Mountains or go paragliding in the Altai Mountains. In Kyrgyzstan, go horseback riding or trekking through the mountains.