Attractions and Places To See in Russia - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in Russia include a diverse range of sites across the world's largest country. The region features iconic landmarks, significant cultural sites, and extensive natural landscapes. Visitors can explore a blend of ancient history, varied architecture, and natural wonders. Russia offers a vast array of points of interest for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see in Russia
- The most popular attractions is Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, a religious building that is a memorial church in St. Petersburg. This elaborately decorated church, known for its extensive mosaics, commemorates the assassination of Tsar Alexander II.
- Another must-see spot is Saint Basil's Cathedral, a religious building located on Red Square in Moscow. This cathedral is a masterpiece of 16th-century Old Russian architecture and a recognized UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Visitors also love Gazprom Arena, a man-made monument that is a football stadium in Saint Petersburg. It is the home stadium of Zenit St. Petersburg and has a capacity for more than 68,000 spectators.
- Russia is known for its historical sites, religious buildings, and natural wonders. The country offers a variety of attractions, from ancient citadels and opulent palaces to vast lakes and towering mountains.
- The attractions in Russia are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 100 upvotes and over 20 photos shared.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Gazprom Arena
Highlight • Monument
The Gazprom Arena (Russian "Газпром Арена"; also Saint Petersburg Stadium [1], Krestovsky Stadium, Zenit Stadium) is a football stadium in the Russian metropolis of Saint Petersburg. It has space for 68,134 spectators. [2] The venue was built on Krestowski Ostrow (German Krestowski Island) on the site of the old Kirow stadium, which was demolished in 2006 to make room for the new building.
source
de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gazprom-Arena
From photo by A.Savin / crop by Osepu - This file is an excerpt from another file: Spb 06-2017 img40 Krestovsky Stadium.jpg, FAL, commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid = 70299129
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Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood
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St. Isaac's Cathedral
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Saint Basil's Cathedral
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Kazan Cathedral
Highlight • Religious Site
In the interior we met numerous believers who, in an impressive way, paid homage to the "Icon of Our Lady of Kazan".
The adoration of the Madonna was in the foreground here. But also the admiration of the many other icons was not neglected here. The orthodox faith seems to be still, or again, very strongly rooted in Russia!
Note: You don't pay an entrance fee here.
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Lomonosov Bridge
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The original Chernyshev Bridge was 63 meters long and 14.7 meters wide. It was built from 1785 to 1787. In the 19th century, other moving bridges were converted into fixed bridges to facilitate traffic. The Chernyshev Bridge remained unchanged and retained its original appearance. The movable middle section of wood was replaced in 1912 by a solid metal bridge. It was not until 1948 that the bridge was renamed after the scholar Mikhail Vasilyevich Lomonosov (1711-1765).
Source: Wikipedia
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Winter Palace
Highlight • Historical Site
The oldest and best-known building on the square is the Baroque, white-green Winter Palace of the Russian Tsars (built 1754-1762), which gave the square its name. Although the adjoining buildings were built in the classical style, they fit perfectly into the size and rhythm of the Winter Palace.
The opposite, southern side of the square has been designed arcuately by Georg Friedrich Veldten (Russian: Юрий Матвеевич Фельтен) in the late 18th century. However, the plans did not materialize until half a century later, when Alexander I planned a place as a huge monument in memory of the Russian victory in the Patriotic War against Napoleon and Carlo Rossi was commissioned to design the arch-shaped buildings of the General Staff in the style of the Empire ( 1819-1821), in which a double triumphal arch with Roman quadriga is integrated.
In the center of the square stands the Alexander Column (1830-1834), designed by Auguste de Montferrand. The column is made of red granite and is the highest of its kind in the world at 47.5 meters. Their weight is 500 tons. "
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Palace Bridge (Dvortsoviy Most)
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Tip: Boat tour at night through the bridge - a very spectacular experience (see photos). The bridge is also an excellent viewing point during the day.
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VNIISK Building, 17 Shosse Entuziastov
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Bell Tower of Peter and Paul Cathedral
Highlight • Religious Site
Incidentally, the Peter Paul Cathedral was the first cathedral in Russia with a carillon. Today there are supposedly at least an impressive 140 bells 🔔🔔🔔🔔🔔 ...
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Tips from the Community
For us it was the most impressive building on Red Square.
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The building at 17 Shosse Entuziastov is an example of late Stalinist neoclassicism (1957) with a brick façade and typical bas-reliefs — a transitional decor between Stalinist splendor and Khrushchev's minimalism. VNIIEK, created in 1942 to develop high-voltage insulators, ceramic-metal bonding technologies, and materials for direct current power transmission lines, operated here. The institute, which replaced 7 departments, including the State Committee for Automation, became a key center of the electrical industry of the USSR. The ceramic elements of the building symbolically reflected scientific specialization: from refractories to electroporcelain. A little-known monument, where the aesthetics of the economy of the 1950s intertwined with industrial progress.
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A beautiful cathedral and a great view once you've climbed the steps. But the effort is rewarded and you are simply fascinated
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the administrative building (1957) was built for the All-Union Research and Design Institute of Electroceramics. The premises are rented out. Behind this building was an old military unit, the barracks of which were marked on the maps of 1838. On the maps of the late 19th century, this place was designated as the Gunpowder Factory and the Artillery Laboratory.
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Gazprom Arena, construction costs €930 million, inauguration April 2017, i.e. for the 2018 World Cup.
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As if from 1000-and-1 Nights: It is modeled on Moscow's St. Basil's Cathedral and, as the only one with a non-Italian or non-classical architectural style, is accordingly conspicuous.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most significant historical attractions in Russia?
Russia boasts a rich history reflected in numerous sites. Key historical attractions include the iconic Saint Basil's Cathedral on Red Square in Moscow, a masterpiece of 16th-century architecture. In St. Petersburg, the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood is a memorial church known for its elaborate mosaics, commemorating the assassination of Tsar Alexander II. Other notable historical sites include the Winter Palace (now part of the Hermitage Museum) and the Kazan Kremlin, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring the Kul Sharif Mosque.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Russia?
Yes, Russia offers many attractions suitable for families. In St. Petersburg, the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood and St. Isaac's Cathedral are both listed as family-friendly. The Gazprom Arena in Saint Petersburg, a major football stadium, also welcomes families. Beyond these, many museums, parks, and cultural sites across the country, such as the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow or the Peterhof Palace with its grand gardens, provide engaging experiences for all ages.
What natural wonders can I explore in Russia?
Russia's vast landscape is home to incredible natural wonders. Lake Baikal in Siberia is the world's deepest and oldest freshwater lake, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and unique biodiversity. The Kamchatka Peninsula features the Valley of Geysers and numerous volcanoes, offering dramatic geothermal activity. Other natural highlights include the towering Lena Pillars along the Lena River and the unique wooden architecture of Kizhi Island in Karelia.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
Many attractions are close to opportunities for outdoor activities. For running enthusiasts, there are routes like the 'Running loop from Лужники' or the 'Zaryadye Park – Kremlin Embankment loop from Павелецкая'. Cyclists can enjoy routes such as the 'Bolshoi Theatre – New Comfortable Bike Path loop from Преображенская площадь' or the 'Old Krasnopolyanskoye Road – Rosa Khutor Resort loop from Олимпийская деревня'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Running Trails in Russia and Cycling in Russia guides.
Are there any wheelchair accessible tourist sites?
Yes, some attractions in Russia are noted for their accessibility. For instance, the Gazprom Arena in Saint Petersburg is categorized as wheelchair accessible. The Winter Palace, home to the Hermitage Museum, also offers accessibility features. It is always advisable to check specific venue websites for the most up-to-date information on accessibility.
What are some unique cultural experiences available in rural Russia?
Beyond the major cities, rural Russia offers profound cultural experiences. The Golden Ring, a collection of ancient towns northeast of Moscow, showcases traditional crafts, beautiful old churches, and monasteries like the Trinity-St. Sergius Lavra in Sergiev Posad. The Solovetsky Islands, a UNESCO site, provide a glimpse into Russia's religious and historical past with its monastery complex. Veliky Novgorod also features historic monuments recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What is the best time to visit the Golden Ring cities?
The Golden Ring cities are beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. Summer (June-August) offers warm weather ideal for exploring the towns and their architecture. Spring (May) and Autumn (September-October) provide pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, with autumn foliage being particularly scenic. Winter (November-March) can be magical with snow-covered landscapes, though temperatures are very cold.
What are some of the most impressive architectural landmarks?
Russia is home to stunning architectural landmarks. The vibrant, onion-domed Saint Basil's Cathedral in Moscow is instantly recognizable. In St. Petersburg, the opulent Winter Palace, the grand Peterhof Palace, and the intricately designed Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood stand out. The Kazan Kremlin, with its blend of Russian and Islamic architectural styles, including the Kul Sharif Mosque, also represents a unique architectural marvel.
Where can I find scenic routes for cycling in Russia?
Russia offers diverse cycling opportunities. For gravel biking, you might explore routes like the 'Pizza Riiska loop' or the 'Grocery store in Nevezhino – Rozhdestvenskoye Reservoir loop'. These routes provide a different perspective on the Russian landscape. More information on these and other gravel biking trails can be found in the Gravel biking in Russia guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Russia?
Visitors frequently express admiration for the grandeur and historical significance of Russia's attractions. Many are captivated by the intricate details of religious buildings like the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood and St. Isaac's Cathedral, often highlighting the impressive mosaics and panoramic views from their towers. The unique architecture, rich history, and the sheer scale of sites like the Red Square and the Hermitage Museum are consistently praised.
Are there any famous bridges worth seeing?
Yes, St. Petersburg is particularly known for its beautiful bridges. The Lomonosov Bridge and the Palace Bridge (Dvortsoviy Most) are notable examples. The Palace Bridge, with its nightly raising to allow ships to pass, is a popular spectacle, especially during the White Nights season.
What are some must-see sights in Russia beyond the major cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg?
Beyond Moscow and St. Petersburg, Russia offers a wealth of attractions. Consider exploring the ancient towns of the Golden Ring, such as Sergiev Posad, for a deep dive into Russian history and architecture. The Kazan Kremlin in Kazan is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a unique blend of cultures. For natural beauty, Lake Baikal in Siberia and the volcanic landscapes of Kamchatka are unparalleled. Kizhi Island in Karelia, with its wooden churches built without nails, also offers a unique cultural and architectural experience.
Most popular routes in Russia
Most popular attractions in Russia
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