Where are we heading
This year, the travel industry notes that the strongest demand from independent travelers in Russia is for domestic flights. Internal analyses by a major Russian travel service show that the domestic market currently satisfies about 84 percent of plane-ticket demand within the country. This insight reflects the ongoing shift toward homegrown travel options, especially as travelers consider routes that keep close to home while seeking familiar destinations.
Around 30 percent of air tickets go to Moscow and St. Petersburg. Rail travel this year focuses on Moscow, St. Petersburg, and popular southern routes, underscoring the continued appeal of Russia’s core hubs for both business and leisure travel.
Security and accessibility issues have constrained certain southern destinations such as Simferopol, Gelendzhik, Anapa, Rostov-on-Don, and other Crimea-area resorts, where airport operations have been disrupted. The disruption presents challenges for hospitality businesses in Crimean regions and nearby resorts, particularly during peak season. This situation also impacts industry players who rely on smooth logistical links to these areas. In response, it is hoped that rail services can be increased to connect Crimea with major regions and resort hubs in Krasnodar Territory, potentially offsetting some tourism losses.
In the current climate, popular Russian travel choices include Sochi and Abkhazia. While this benefits local tourism, travelers may face higher hotel and transport costs during peak season due to strong demand and limited supply. As spring arrives, interest in regions such as Altai and Lake Baikal is expected to rise. However, these areas may struggle to secure accommodation and services during peak periods until their tourism infrastructure catches up with demand.
The Kaliningrad region is predicted to attract many visitors this summer thanks to its unique architecture, sea access, the Curonian Spit, and distinctive local cuisine. This mix makes Kaliningrad an appealing option for travelers seeking something different on a Baltic edge.
Where not to go – and why
There are numerous Russian regions that have not yet drawn mass tourist attention but hold significant potential for discovery. A growing consensus suggests these areas deserve closer scrutiny by travelers seeking offbeat experiences. Regions such as Khakassia stand out for their pristine nature and outdoor adventure opportunities, including canoeing or rafting along the Yenisei, rock climbing in rugged parks, and serene lakeside retreats.
Beyond nature, the cultural facet offers added value. Khakassia presents a chance to explore shamanic traditions and local customs, including unique crafts and rustic stays that immerse visitors in the regional way of life. For travelers from Europe and the eastern parts of Russia, the Ural region—comprising Bashkiria, Chelyabinsk, Sverdlovsk, and the Perm Territory—holds potential that is often underestimated. These areas share natural beauty and a rich historical heritage, while ongoing improvements in services and infrastructure boost their appeal.
For residents farther east, lands such as Khabarovsk Territory, Primorye, and Sakhalin offer magnificent nature and rapidly developing infrastructure. In these places, visitors can enjoy expansive outdoor activities year-round, from winter northern lights photography and snowmobile adventures to summertime maritime towns and rugged coastal expeditions.
One more destination panel gaining interest is the Murmansk region, where outdoor activities flourish in every season. Winter tasks include northern lights photography and dog sledding, while summer invites exploration of Teriberka, visits to Umba, and secluded forest-tundra camping or jeep tours of the Sredny and Rybachy peninsulas. The region’s vast landscapes promise a blend of adventure and solitude for travelers seeking something beyond the usual routes.
Border discussions and international travel
Longstanding international favorites for Russian tourists in 2023—such as Turkey, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Thailand, Georgia, the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Bali, Goa, and Vietnam—remain in rotation. Spring’s top choices include Turkey, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, and Thailand. Tunisia is expected to regain some direct-flight attention, with all-inclusive tours offering competitive pricing relative to Egypt and Turkey. While European destinations like Greece, Spain, and Italy will still appeal to higher-spending travelers, broad mass tourism may be less affordable for many travelers in the near term. The landscape suggests a continued preference for value-rich, accessible destinations combined with practical travel planning for the season ahead.