Irkutsk

Entry requirements vary by passport. Check the requirements for your specific passport on the Russia page at Yoogo.

Russia uses the Russian ruble (RUB). Card payments are widely accepted in major cities at hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets, though smaller establishments and rural areas often prefer cash. It is advisable to carry rubles for markets, public transport, and smaller towns where card infrastructure is less reliable.

Russia's major tourist destinations, including central Moscow and Saint Petersburg, have large numbers of international visitors and established tourist infrastructure. Travellers are encouraged to consult their government's current travel advisory before departure, as conditions can vary significantly by region.

Moscow and Saint Petersburg both have extensive metro systems, widely regarded as efficient and affordable, with English signage available in major stations. Long-distance travel between cities is most commonly done by train, including high-speed Sapsan services between Moscow and Saint Petersburg, while domestic flights connect more distant destinations such as Vladivostok and Sochi.

Late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October) offer mild temperatures and manageable crowds, making them popular times to visit the main cities. Saint Petersburg is particularly sought after in June and early July for the White Nights, when the sky barely darkens overnight, while ski resorts in Sochi and the Caucasus are at their best from December to March.

English is increasingly spoken in Moscow and Saint Petersburg, particularly among younger residents, hotel staff, and workers in tourist areas. Outside major cities, English proficiency drops considerably, and it is useful to learn the Cyrillic alphabet to read signs and to know a handful of basic Russian phrases, as these are appreciated by locals.

No vaccinations are required for entry into Russia, but travellers are advised to ensure routine immunisations including hepatitis A, diphtheria, tetanus, and measles are up to date. Those planning outdoor activities in forested or rural regions, particularly in Siberia and the Far East, should consider a tick-borne encephalitis vaccine, as the condition is present in parts of Russia. Seek advice from a travel health clinic at least four to six weeks before departure.

Tipping is not obligatory in Russia but is customary in restaurants in major cities, where 10 per cent of the bill is a common and appreciated gesture. It is best to tip in cash and hand it directly to the server. Hotel porters and housekeeping staff are often tipped small amounts as well.