The Russian Travel Industry Association predicts a 19–20% rise in domestic tourist trips by the end of 2023, a forecast reported by TASS and tied to remarks from Ilya Umansky, the chairman of the Russian Congress of Tourism during the General Assembly of Sports and Tourism Day. The statement reflects a broader confidence across the sector that demand will rebound as travel resumes and people re-evaluate domestic options in a shifting global travel backdrop.
According to Umansky, Russia could see as many as 86 million tourist trips this year, a notable jump from about 72 million in 2022. That projection is shaped by a combination of factors, including improved consumer sentiment, a sustained push for domestic travel, and targeted investments that expand access to diverse destinations across the country. Industry operators emphasize that this growth would bolster regional tourism hubs, increase seasonal visitation, and help spread travel activity beyond traditional hotspots.
Umansky also reminded stakeholders that Russia aims to attract about 140 million visitors annually by 2030. Reaching such a level would require a coordinated tourism development strategy that aligns policy, infrastructure, and service quality with growing traveler expectations. The plan prioritizes accessibility for travelers, enhanced hospitality options, and the continued modernization of travel networks to support sustained growth.
The industry association expects a robust recovery of the tourism sector following the pandemic downturn and ongoing travel restrictions. A key driver of this rebound is the expansion of domestic tourism, supported by campaigns and investments intended to stimulate local travel, preserve cultural heritage sites, and improve transport connectivity to less-visited regions.
Earlier reports indicated that tourist inflows to Russia in 2023 were projected to surpass 75 million, based on preliminary data released by Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko. This level exceeded pre-pandemic figures from 2019, while 2022 saw about 73.1 million visitors. President Vladimir Putin has shown interest in broadening the domestic tourism program to include catering facilities as part of the initiative, a move supported by measurable gains in the construction and operation of mid-range hotels. The program’s momentum is evident in the ongoing development of 3- to 4-star hotel properties, aimed at delivering better value and more reliable service across regions.
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The broader question remains for many residents and visitors: what will rental and accommodation costs look like in 2024? That inquiry underscores the intersection of travel demand with housing markets, a topic closely watched by travelers choosing when and where to explore within Russia.