If you plan to visit Russia, you might think traveling during the winter is a wild idea. But as long as you don't mind the cold and are well prepared, winter is often one of the best seasons to visit this country.
There is still plenty to do, and since it couldn't be further from the high season, you'll often find that museums, galleries, and other attractions in Moscow and St Petersburg are less crowded with shorter queues. And it's easier to find tables in restaurants.
However, like visiting Russia at any other time of the year, you must be fully prepared and know what to expect to enjoy a memorable trip. We've compiled some tips for visiting Russia's capital cities in the winter.
Table of Contents
Russia Travel Tips
1. What To Pack: Wrap Up Warm
First, pack plenty of warm clothes for your winter visit to Moscow and Saint Petersburg. The temperatures can easily drop below zero, so wearing plenty of layers is wise.
The more layers you wear, the better—after all, you can get warm when you go indoors, so if you can take a couple of layers off when you're warm, you can stay comfortable. If you're wondering what to pack, here are some basics.
A coat
This one is not to be scrimped on! Before you head to Moscow and Saint Petersburg in the winter, you must invest in a thick, padded jacket. Finding a coat with a thermal base layer is even better to ensure you're well-protected from the cold.
Thermals
Thermal underlayers will be your best friend throughout the winter when traveling in Russia. You can wear them underneath your regular clothing to lock in heat and act as an extra protective barrier against the elements.
Hat, scarf, and gloves
Warm and cozy accessories are essential in Moscow and Saint Petersburg during the winter. A thick scarf will keep your shoulders warm, and a hat that protects your ears from the cold is ideal. Skip the leather gloves, as they don't always offer much protection against the cold.
Boots
Sturdy, warm boots are ideal if you'll spend a lot of time walking. The ground can get icy, so it's worth investing in good winter boots with sturdy tread.
2. Get Your Documents in Order
No matter what time of year you plan to visit Moscow and Saint Petersburg, make sure that your travel documents are in order. Your passport must have at least six months left on it from your date of travel, and you may need to apply for a visa to enter Russia.
Even if you're traveling from a European country, you will need a visa to enter Russia, so it's worth keeping this in mind. The rules for issuance of visas are similar for all EU citizens. To obtain a visa, you must first receive an invitation to Russia. This could be from a relative or friend who is a citizen there, or you may be able to get an invitation from your tour company.
3. Arrange Your Travel
Getting from St. Petersburg to Moscow and vice versa can be quite a lengthy journey, so it's worth arranging your travel plans beforehand. Use this trusted website to find tickets for Russian railways. Check the times, as they could differ during the winter, particularly around public holidays. Visit Russian Train Tickets to learn more about the route between the two capitals and pre-arrange your tickets.
You can book tickets online, but you must print them out and have them ready when you arrive at the station. It's also a good idea to update yourself regularly on travel, as extreme weather may cause disruptions.
Don't forget about travel when you are getting around the cities, too – you can get around in various ways, including metro, bus, trolley bus, and tram in Moscow, and metro, bus, trolleybus, and aquabus in Saint Petersburg. You can purchase travel cards for use on public transport in each city. The easiest way to get a ticket is at a ticket office, which you can find at both major stations.
4. Check the Events Calendar
Finally, it's worth checking out the events calendar before your trip, whether you want to avoid the celebratory crowds or are planning to get involved. Several different events are held throughout the winter in Russia. Christmas markets are held in each city from late November through December and January.
If you visit after Christmas Day, you'll be thrilled to know that Christmas markets will still be open, as Russian Orthodox Christians celebrate this holiday in early January. But bear in mind that if you visit around January 6th or 7th, it's the peak Christmas season, and many shops and restaurants may be closed for the week.
New Year's Eve is also a massive celebration in Russia. If you want to enjoy the country's biggest party of the year, then this is the perfect time to go and celebrate with the locals.
If you're in Moscow, head to Red Square to participate in the celebrations—concerts, fireworks, and food stalls are plentiful. The locals hold street parties all night, waiting for the President's New Year message to be broadcast at midnight. In Saint Petersburg, every major restaurant will host New Year's Eve events, with many parties and celebrations.
Traveling to St Petersburg and Moscow in Russia during the winter can be a fantastic trip, but make sure you're fully prepared!
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This story was brought to you in partnership with Firebird Tours.
