Travel patterns for the upcoming long weekend around February 23 show clear preferences among travelers from the Russian Federation and international visitors. A large share of Russians choose to stay closer to home, prioritizing historic cities like St. Petersburg and the capital Moscow, while travelers arriving from abroad consistently seek lodging in vibrant international hubs such as Istanbul and Dubai. These observations come from a comprehensive OneTwoTrip study summarized by DEA News, reflecting how demand shifts with the calendar and holiday timing.
Travel service analysts report that hotel reservations for the forthcoming long weekend are being placed across both Russian and foreign destinations. The data indicate a broad, nationwide appetite for short breaks, with search activity and bookings concentrated in cities that offer cultural attractions, easy access, and favorable hotel inventories. The study emphasizes that interest is not limited to a single locale but rather spans multiple regions, signaling a balanced approach to weekend travel among domestic travelers and a steady interest from overseas guests.
This year the long weekend extends from Thursday, February 23, creating a four-day break for many Russians. Yet travelers often maximize time off by taking additional days, turning a standard long weekend into a longer vacation. Industry representatives note that the extended break can translate into higher room occupancy as people plan midweek escapes, midwinter excursions, and visits to family or friends who live far away. The booking patterns suggest that travelers are weighing weather, event calendars, and personal schedules when choosing their destinations for the February period.
Within the Russian Federation, hotel reservations are distributed across several major cities. The latest figures show that St. Petersburg accounts for a notable portion of bookings, while Moscow also commands a significant share. In concrete terms, about one-fifth of all national reservations occur in St. Petersburg, with Moscow close behind, reflecting the enduring appeal of these two metropolises for weekend getaways. The city mix indicates that travelers prioritize iconic architecture, museum-rich itineraries, and riverfront experiences that are especially attractive during late winter when crowds are thinner yet cultural offerings remain abundant.
Many travelers have expressed interest in visiting the Krasnodar Territory, with Sochi emerging as a favored seaside-wrap destination even in late winter. Sochi’s appeal lies in its coastal scenery, sports facilities, and resort amenities that tend to offer reliable comfort and a dose of sunshine, helping to offset cooler air temperatures elsewhere. The booking data shows Sochi capturing a meaningful share of the domestic demand, underscoring how regional diversification helps travelers spread risk and enjoy varied experiences during a short trip.
On the international front, Istanbul stands out as the most sought-after foreign destination for this particular long weekend, drawing the lion’s share of foreign reservations. Turkish hospitality, combined with a historic cityscape and competitive rates, makes Istanbul a compelling option for travelers from many countries who want culture, cuisine, and cosmopolitan energy in a compact itinerary. Dubai also remains a steady magnet for those seeking modern luxury, shopping, and family-friendly attractions, reinforcing the cross-continental appeal of the United Arab Emirates as a short-haul escape from Russia and neighboring regions.
Industry experts also warn about potential price shifts as borders reopen and travel demand adjusts. While markets adapt to evolving travel norms, the underlying trajectory shows growth in inbound and outbound tourism for the Russian Federation, with price sensitivity influenced by seasonal demand and geopolitical developments. The overall message from analysts is clear: the February weekend is a catalyst for robust activity across both domestic hubs and popular international cities, with travelers keen to optimize value, convenience, and memorable experiences amid ongoing changes in the global travel landscape.