Russia is the biggest country in the world, and its mighty scale is mirrored in the splendor of its culture and natural beauty. Colorful, intricate, and monumental, Russia should be on everyone’s list of holiday destinations. There are so many splendid cities to see, and everything is beautiful in its own way. Russia forms the bridge between Russia and Asia. The melting pot that is Russia boasts some of the most magnificent and sensational cities in the world. Without further ado, here’s a list of Russia’s best cities to visit.
Saint Petersburg
Saint Petersburg steals most of the attention. Founded in 1703, it has changed its name several times. Saint Petersburg has also been known as Petrograd and Leningrad. After the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the city became Sankt-Petersburg (in Russian). Dropping Lenin’s name signified abandoning the legacy of the Russian revolutionary leader.
There are five sumptuous imperial palaces around the city, namely Peterhof, Catherine Palace, Gatchina, Konstantinovsky Palace and Oranienbaum Palace. Much of the city’s architecture is Baroque and neoclassical. The architectural styles can be seen in some of Saint Petersburg’s heritage sites, including the Winter Palace (home to the renowned Hermitage), Saint Isaac’s Cathedral, and the Mariinsky Theatre, to name a few.
Not many know that Amsterdam served as an inspiration for the construction of Saint Petersburg. Peter the Great admired the way Amsterdam transformed into the richest city in Europe. An interesting place to visit in Saint Petersburg is New Holland, an artificial island located in the heart of the city.
Moscow
Moscow draws travelers from all over the world. It’s fast, lively, crowded, and mystical. The Bolshoi Theater is a must-do for a visit to Russia. The theatrical season opens in October, and you can see top performances, such as the Nutcracker. If you have no interest in seeing a performance, at least take a guided tour inside the theater.
Can you survive in Moscow if you don’t speak the Russian local language? Well, yes. Restaurants in the center have an English menu. Almost all businesses have someone who speaks English. You’ll hear English all around you because of the focus on tourists. So, why bother learning Russian? Because it can be fruitful for your social life and career opportunities. Your…
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