Yandex Travel researchers analyzed where Russians prefer to celebrate the New Year, mapping the taste for destinations across regions and countries. The findings reveal a clear pattern that mirrors recent years: most travelers opt for domestic getaways to ring in the holiday season, enjoying the comfort of familiar landscapes and familiar customs. This preference underscores a strong domestic travel culture that continues to shape holiday plans and hotel demand across the country.
Beyond home soil, neighboring nations closely follow in popularity. Belarus, Abkhazia, and Kazakhstan emerge as the leading picks among nearby regions, while among countries outside the Commonwealth of Independent States, the UAE, Türkiye, and various European nations attract the most interest. These choices reflect a balance of convenience, affordability, and the appeal of varied climates and experiences during the winter break.
When it comes to cities, Moscow, St. Petersburg, Sochi, Kazan, and Nizhny Novgorod lead in hotel bookings. These urban centers offer a blend of historical charm, cultural events, and extensive hospitality options that appeal to travelers seeking a festive atmosphere, easy logistics, and reliable services during the New Year period.
Guests tend to spend between four and seven days in foreign hotels during the New Year holidays, while stays in Russian hotels are commonly around three days. Reservations for Russian stays typically occur well in advance, with the average lead time around sixty-two days before the New Year. Destination planning often begins long before the holiday, with Arkhyz planned about ninety-two days ahead, Sochi about seventy-seven days ahead, and Anapa roughly seventy-four days in advance. These patterns illustrate a well-established habit of early decision-making, which helps travelers secure preferred accommodations and favorable prices during peak season.
Earlier, Yandex Travel specialists highlighted the January holidays as a standout period for travel. The TOP five destinations for solo trips in 2024 point to choices that combine safety, accessibility, and opportunities for personal discovery, suggesting that single travelers are actively seeking experiences that are both manageable and enriching during the New Year window.
In another study, Russians identified three key criteria when selecting a restaurant for the New Year celebration. They emphasized value for money, a menu aligned with holiday traditions, and reliable service that ensures a smooth, festive experience. These considerations reflect a practical approach to dining that enhances the overall holiday mood and fosters positive memories of the season.