Tour operators report a growing interest among Russian travelers in visiting European destinations, even when direct flight options remain limited. Dmitry Gorin, Vice President of the Russian Travel Industry Association, spoke with Izvestia to confirm a sustained appetite for European travel despite practical hurdles. The conversation highlights a broader pattern: Russians are seeking diverse European experiences that blend culture, history, and regional cuisine while navigating travel constraints that have shaped plans in recent years.
Gorin highlighted that in 2022 more than 680,000 Russians secured Schengen entry documents. He described this milestone as a clear signal of ongoing interest in multi-country travel among Russian tourists, suggesting many are crafting itineraries that weave experiences across several European nations. The figure underscores a shared commitment by travelers and authorities to maintain mobility, even as visa policies and security considerations evolve. This renewed mobility demonstrates how travelers adapt by taking advantage of available routes and visa processes to maximize access to Europe’s varied regions.
According to Gorin, the nations most frequently pursued include Italy, Spain, Greece, France, Austria, and Hungary. These countries attract Russians for their rich historical sites, renowned art and architecture, celebrated culinary scenes, and well-connected travel infrastructures. Travel experts observe that these destinations offer a mix of iconic cities and scenic regions, creating compelling routes for a multi-country experience within a single trip. The appeal underscores a broader trend where cultural magnetism and regional hospitality drive tourism across Europe.
Beyond Europe, there is notable interest in travel to Israel, driven partly by direct flight links with Russia. The convenience of direct connections shortens journeys and reduces transit complications. Industry observers note that direct flights can make destinations more accessible, encouraging longer or more frequent trips and expanding the potential for return visits as travelers weigh time, budget, and personal interests when planning itineraries.
Since September 2022, a group of six EU member states Poland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Finland, and the Czech Republic introduced entry restrictions on the EU external border for tourism by Russian nationals. Several other European countries, including Belgium, the Netherlands, Norway, and Slovakia, paused issuing tourist visas. The cumulative effect of these measures has reshaped how Russian travelers approach European journeys, influencing destination choices, travel timelines, and visa strategies. Travel agencies and tour operators responded by building alternative routes, focusing on countries with more predictable visa processes, or by offering guidance on documentation and compliance to help clients navigate evolving rules. These shifts illustrate how geopolitical dynamics influence tourism flows and the planning behind international trips as travelers seek certainty in uncertain times.
Sergey Prostakov, a former expert with the Foundation for People’s Diplomacy, commented on Europe’s enduring appeal despite obstacles. He noted that even substantial costs do not deter many travelers from pursuing European experiences, underscoring the continuing value placed on a European journey. Prostakov’s observations reflect a broader willingness to allocate resources toward meaningful travel, prioritizing cultural immersion, personal enrichment, and the social value of travel experiences even when budgeting is tight. This perspective helps explain why demand remains strong despite visa barriers and flight limitations, highlighting Europe as a travel destination that continues to attract global audiences.