Russia is home to a variety of ancient ruins and interesting architecture. One of the most famous ancient ruins is the Kremlin in Moscow, which dates back to the 15th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Kremlin is a complex of …
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Backpacking Russia in 2025
A complete guide for backpacking in Russia with best places to go, best time to visit, what to bring and safety advice.
Visit Russia
Welcome to Russia, a vast canvas of history, culture, and diverse landscapes that beckons adventurous backpackers. Pros? Immerse in iconic landmarks, from the Kremlin to the Trans-Siberian Railway, and enjoy affordable accommodations and hearty cuisine. However, the language barrier can be challenging, and vast distances require careful planning. For the intrepid backpacker, Russia offers a blend of grandeur and grit, where each step unveils a new chapter in history and a unique cultural encounter, making it a distinctive and rewarding destination for those seeking an expansive and immersive journey.
Why to go?Why backpacking in Russia
Architecture
💡 HighlightsTop-5 things to do in Russia
- Visit Red Square in Moscow: Red Square is the heart of Moscow and one of the most iconic landmarks in Russia. It is home to the famous St. Basil’s Cathedral, the State Historical Museum, and the Kremlin. Exploring Red Square allows you to immerse yourself in Russian history and architecture.
- Explore the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg: The Hermitage Museum is one of the largest and oldest museums in the world, housing a vast collection of art and cultural artifacts. It is a must-visit for art lovers, as it showcases works by renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Leonardo da Vinci, and Van Gogh.
- Take a trip to the Trans-Siberian Railway: The Trans-Siberian Railway is the longest railway line in the world, spanning over 9,000 kilometers. It offers a unique opportunity to witness the vastness and diversity of Russia’s landscapes, from the Ural Mountains to the Siberian taiga.
- Visit the historic city of Kazan: Kazan is the capital of Tatarstan and a city where East meets West. It is known for its stunning UNESCO-listed Kremlin, a blend of Islamic and Russian architectural styles. Exploring Kazan allows you to experience the rich cultural heritage of both Russian and Tatar traditions.
- Discover the beauty of Lake Baikal: Lake Baikal is the deepest and oldest freshwater lake in the world, known for its crystal-clear waters and unique biodiversity. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and even ice diving during winter.
But Russia offers more...
🌤️ When to go?Best time to go backpacking Russia
The best time to visit Russia for backpacking is during the summer months, from June to August. This is when the weather is the most pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 20-30 °C (68-86 °F). The days are longer, allowing for more exploration and outdoor activities. Additionally, many popular tourist destinations, such as Moscow and St. Petersburg, host various festivals and events during this time. However, it is important to note that Russia is a vast country, and weather conditions can vary significantly depending on the region. It is advisable to check the specific climate of the areas you plan to visit to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable backpacking experience.
Risk level: high (100%)Safety advice for Russia
- Foreigners, including Australians, are at ongoing risk of arbitrary detention or arrest. Russian authorities make strong, negative comments in relation to Western countries, including Australia. Local authorities may adopt a more negative attitude towards foreigners in Russia in reaction to perceived support for Ukraine and sanctions on Russia. Non-participating bystanders can draw scrutiny from security forces and have been detained. Remain vigilant, avoid protests or demonstrations, and avoid commenting publicly on political developments.
- There's a high ongoing threat of terrorism. Terrorist groups, including al-Qaeda and Daesh-aligned groups, continue to call for attacks in Russia. Attacks can be indiscriminate and may occur on or around seasonal, festive, or religious events in public places, including popular tourist sites. Attacks may occur with little or no warning. Always be alert to possible threats and have a clear exit plan. On 22 March, there was a terrorist attack at Crocus City Concert Hall, resulting in significant loss of life. Security measures or restrictions may continue to be in place across the country. Follow the advice of local authorities.
- Security incidents, such as drone attacks and explosions, often occur in southern and western areas of Russia, including regions bordering Ukraine, Moscow, and St Petersburg. This can cause significant flight delays and travel disruption. You shouldn't attempt to travel to the Russia-Ukraine border or cross into Ukraine from Russia.
- The security situation could deteriorate further with little warning. If you're in Russia, leave immediately using the commercial options available or private means if it's safe to do so. Departure routes from Russia may become disrupted at short notice, so have an alternate exit plan.
- If you decide to stay in Russia, review your personal security plans. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family. Our ability to provide consular assistance in Russia is limited. The Australian Government won't be able to evacuate you from Russia.
- There are limited transportation options, restrictions on financial transactions and possible shortages of essential products and services.
- The Russian Government has introduced a 'medium response level' in several regions of Russia, including Krasnodar, Belgorod, Bryansk, Voronezh, Kursk, and Rostov and a 'heightened preparedness level' in the remainder of the Central and Southern Federal districts. A basic readiness level covers the rest of Russia. There may be an increase in security personnel and installations. Security measures or restrictions may be introduced with little to no notice. Monitor the media for developments.
- Continue to follow the advice on Smartraveller. If you have significant concerns for your welfare or that of another Australian, contact the Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 outside Australia.
source: smartraveller.gov.au
source: www.gov.uk
RussiaMy tips to get you on the way!Does Russia sound like your next backpacking destination? Use these steps to get you on the way.
Get inspiration 📚
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.
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Prepare your trip ✅
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for Russia. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. Russia may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for Russia. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. Russia may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.
Book your flight ✈️
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute). A final tip would be to check airports in neighbouring countries. Not necessarily for cost saving but it can be intriguing to journey into Russia, travel overland to one of its neighbours and fly back home from there.
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute). A final tip would be to check airports in neighbouring countries. Not necessarily for cost saving but it can be intriguing to journey into Russia, travel overland to one of its neighbours and fly back home from there.
Book your first night(s) 🛌
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.
My personal packing list 🎒
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Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.
Money & Documents
Clothing
Electronics
Health
Others
Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.Money & Documents
Clothing
Electronics
Health
Others
Moneybelt
[Amazon]
“Best way to carry your important documents”
Quick dry pant
[Amazon]
“Nothing beats these quick dry and light pants when traveling”
Light rain jacket
[Amazon]
“Hiking in rainy season? These keep you dry”
Thermo underwear
[Amazon]
“Less weight and volume than bulky sweaters or jackets”
Quick dry towel
[Amazon]
“Normal towels get smelly and heavy when traveling”
Power bank
[Amazon]
“Pick a small and light one, with 10.000mAh or more”
Travel adapter
[Amazon]
“Needed as each country has its own electricity plugs”
Number lock
[Amazon]
“No chance of losing your key; handy for lockers in dormitories”
Packing cubes
[Amazon]
“Keep your wet or dirty clothes separate from the rest”
Travel pillow
[Amazon]
“Light and great for flights and long bus journeys”
last page update: 28 September 2024