Russian President Sets June Deadline for Car Tourism Concept

Russian President Vladimir Putin has directed the government to draft a comprehensive concept for the development of car tourism in Russia, with a deadline set for June 15. The announcement was communicated by the Kremlin press office, signaling a strategic push to diversify travel options and boost regional mobility through road-based tourism. The plan is framed as a national project, aiming to map out the path from policy to practice and to coordinate across ministries, regional administrations, and the private sector to unlock new opportunities for travelers who prefer driving across vast landscapes and historic corridors rather than flying between points on a map. The initiative reflects a broader emphasis on domestic tourism and cross-border travel by car, recognizing Russia’s diverse geography and cultural heritage as a magnet for both residents and international visitors who arrive by road. press office

According to the draft concept, the state will work to develop and approve a centralized framework that outlines the conditions for building and upgrading the necessary infrastructure. This includes road networks, rest stops, service centers, and information hubs that help travelers plan routes, understand visa or border requirements when applicable, and access critical services along the way. The document also anticipates a pilot phase that would roll out car tourism throughout key regions of the country, including routes linking major urban centers with regional hubs, as well as scenic routes that showcase Russia’s natural beauty and historic sites. The plan underscores the interconnection between transportation policy, regional development, and tourism promotion, with pilots designed to test demand, safety standards, regulatory alignment, and the capacity of local communities to host visitors. press office

Industry data from Kommsant indicate that roughly 180 thousand certificates allowing Russian citizens to drive abroad were issued in 2022, signaling a notable uptick in international driving privileges. Analysts suggest several drivers behind this trend: a growing interest in flexible travel options, the dispersion of Russian residents seeking opportunities abroad under various circumstances, and the appeal of road trips that enable closer engagement with neighboring countries and remote regions alike. The shift away from air travel is also linked to the rising cost of airline tickets, prompting families and adventure seekers to explore road-based itineraries that offer the freedom to alter plans on the fly, stop at regional festivals, and discover lesser-known locales along the route. While the data reflect a particular year, the pattern points to a sustained appetite for car-based exploration among Russian travelers and return-visit potential from foreign visitors who respect Russia’s diverse landscapes.

Experts cited in industry coverage note that the acceleration in issuing international driving rights aligns with broader demographic and lifestyle changes—most notably, emigration trends tied to regional and international opportunities. The growth in car tourism is seen not merely as a reaction to ticket prices but as part of a larger evolution in how people plan and experience travel. Curious travelers are increasingly willing to drive across borders to access cultural events, culinary experiences, and historical sites, while car enthusiasts appreciate the flexibility of itineraries and the ability to explore offbeat paths without relying on fixed schedules. In this context, the development concept is designed to address safety, border policies, vehicle standards, and the harmonization of signage and conventions so that long-distance road trips can be both enjoyable and secure for drivers and passengers alike. The initiative also contemplates partnerships with automotive brands to showcase capable vehicles, camping setups, and travel accessories that enhance comfort on extended journeys. press office