Russia holidays

One of the most evocative destinations in the world, Russia is represented in all its contrary ways by two cities: St. Petersburg and the capital Moscow. St. Petersburg is simply one of the world's most beautiful cities, built in defiance of nature and logic - and at great human cost - on marshy islands at the mouth of the River Neva on Russia's Baltic coastline. In contrast, but no less fascinating, Moscow is a more eastern-focused city than it's long-term rival. Want to expand the horizons of your Russia holidays? Take a seat on one of the world’s greatest railways with a ride on the Trans-Siberian. Sip tea from a samovar (Russian tea urn), savour high-quality caviar and lose track of time in the dining car. On this amazing adventure you quickly become accustomed to the rhythms of the train as you peer out of the window at charming wooden houses with flowers in every window, and the deep blue water of Lake Baikal. Pass through the northern corners of Nenets and Evenk and finally pull into the station of Ulan-Ulan, the capital of Buryatia, and the great steppe where shamans and Lamaist Buddhists carve out an existence close to the border of Mongolia.

What can you find in Russia that you can’t find elsewhere?

A continent-sized country that is as diverse as it is huge, Russia holidays can be experienced in a thousand and one ways. From the glamour and glitz of Moscow and St. Petersburg to the sensational scenery that whizzes past the windows aboard the Trans-Siberian, you could spend a lifetime here and only just be able to scratch the surface of this captivating country.

Who is Russia best for?

With its sensational cities packed full of culture, Russia appeals to those travellers seeking a rich and varied heritage. Art lovers will adore the twisting medieval streets, impressive Baroque architecture and endless chances to admire contemporary art. The cities brim with exhibitions, concerts, and operas and you don’t have to go far to enjoy the simple pleasures of the countryside.

What are the best ways to discover Russia?

One of the best ways to discover the wonders of Russia is to explore by train and combine some of the country's best-loved cities. The main line runs from Moscow to St. Petersburg with plenty of opportunities to hop on and off in-between - the perfect way to see as much of this gargantuan giant as possible on your Russian holidays.

Unique experiences in Russia

Ride the mythical Trans-Siberian from Moscow to Lake Baikal or from Moscow to Beijing and leave behind the regal rooftops of Moscow as you trundle across Russia and see some of its more epic scenery. From the steamy fragrance of the tea samovars (Russian tea urn) to the wide-open horizons and the sense of a timeless adventure, the Trans-Siberian is truly a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Winter in St. Petersburg is also an experience that is truly unique and wonderfully romantic. Elegant gardens, stately art collections, and snow crunching beneath your feet – rent a private apartment with your families and friends and get a taste for life in St. Petersburg in all its frosty splendour. The city is seriously impressive, but there's almost more to be learnt about the Russian psyche from the enormous palaces built by subsequent tsars and tsarinas in the countryside around the city. It's easier to understand the shift to communism - the 1917 revolution kicked off here, incidentally - after wandering around these temples to excess with a guide bringing the places to life.

A three hour daytime (or longer overnight) train away from St Petersburg in Moscow the sites of the Kremlin are a magnificent must-see, as are the showy displays of wealth by the winners in the post-communist free-for-all. A reminder that ostentation is a trait the Russians have had all along. We know and can recommend all the latest restaurants, bars and clubs to watch the new Russian money flowing as fast as the champagne.