During a regional tourism forum held from August 5 to 8, Russia’s diverse regions showcased their travel treasures. Attendees learned about landmarks, regional cultures, crafts, and the distinctive national cuisine that flavors every corner of the country.
Rostourism outlined a forward-looking plan to map national tourist routes. The agency already has 29 routes in the pipeline, designed to make travel across the nation more engaging, convenient, and safe for both solo travelers and organized groups. Officials emphasized that Rostourism stands ready to assist regions, hotels, tour operators, and guides in crafting fresh, appealing itineraries that highlight local character and hospitality.
Uzbekistan served as the forum’s partner country for the year, giving Russian visitors a full spectrum of travel possibilities to a neighboring state. The Uzbek ambassador pointed out ongoing developments in sports, ethnic, ecological, gastronomic, and cultural recreation, ensuring there is something appealing for every traveler departing from Russia.
Among the topics, car tourism emerged as the central focus for future industry growth. Plans are in place to build a robust road-side infrastructure that includes gas stations, hotels, dining options, and campsites. The proposal to incorporate car tourism into the new tourism law would provide a solid legal framework to support sustained development in this sector.
Yulia Rybakova, an advisor to the head of the Federal Agency for Tourism, introduced a concept centered on journeys to sites celebrated as national pride within Russia. As part of a workshop on national routes, regional representatives presented route options for Samara, Orenburg, Rostov, Tver, Kemerovo, Arkhangelsk, Mordovia, and the Perm Territory. Additionally, the presentation titled Try the Taste of the National Tourist Route offered a curated menu of regional dishes that travelers can sample on these itineraries, illustrating how food can play a pivotal role in regional storytelling.
During the forum’s business program, discussions covered strategies to boost the investment appeal of tourism zones, strengthen public-private collaboration in regional development, advance the camping sector, and introduce innovative technologies for hospitality and rural tourism. The exchange also highlighted efforts to enhance tourism in the Caucasus, signaling a regional focus on expanding access to varied landscapes and cultural experiences across the area.
One notable line of discussion explored how to attract more private capital into local tourism initiatives and how authorities can work alongside private partners to scale services, improve infrastructure, and raise overall visitor satisfaction. The conversations underscored the importance of sustainable planning, community involvement, and practical innovation to keep growing regional tourism in a crowded, competitive landscape.
Further emphasis was placed on the concept of mobility and exploration, encouraging travelers to consider longer, more immersive road trips that connect major centers with lesser-known gems along the way. The forum also touched on the role of tourism in rural areas, presenting models where countryside communities benefit from payments for services, authentic experiences, and participation in the broader national tourism tapestry.
- Driving updates and announcements can be accessed via compatible messaging platforms, as shared during the forum.
Photo: Press service of the Russian Tourism Forum Travel!