Tour guides Russia

5 ideas for guided tours in Russia

• Golden Ring

  

  Northeast of Moscow, a fascinating route unfolds, linking several historic Russian cities that date back to the Middle Ages. This region lies between the Volga and Klyazma Rivers, offering a journey deep into the country’s heritage.

  Traveling through hamlets and villages, you’ll find cathedrals, churches, monasteries, and museums at every turn. Spending a few days with a knowledgeable Russian guide is the best way to fully immerse yourself in the local history and traditions that have endured for centuries.

  Here are the main stops along the way:
  – Suzdal: often considered the most beautiful city on the route, once the spiritual center of Russia.
  – Vladimir: home to remarkable 12th-century religious monuments.
  – Sergiev Posad: famous for the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, often called the “Orthodox Vatican.”
  – Yaroslavl: the heart of the Golden Ring, with a UNESCO-listed historic center.
  – Kostroma: a former trading town that has preserved a strong sense of authenticity.
  – Pereslavl-Zalessky: an ancient city on the shores of Lake Pleshcheyevo, rich in history and charm.

• Kiji Island

  

  The charming and picturesque island of Kizhi lies about 700 kilometers north of Moscow, on the tranquil waters of Lake Onega in the heart of the Republic of Karelia.

  Barely 7 kilometers long and 500 meters wide, the island offers an unforgettable excursion into Russia’s wooden heritage. Visitors can admire windmills, barns, and several old churches, all built in the traditional style. Among them stands one of the tallest wooden structures in the world.

  The highlight is the Church of the Transfiguration, rising 37 meters high with 22 onion-shaped domes — built entirely without nails. The island also features a beautiful parish complex made of fir wood, offering a glimpse into Russia’s rural past.

• Vladivostok

  

  On the edge of the former Soviet Empire, facing Japan, lies Vladivostok. The final stop of the legendary Trans-Siberian Railway, this vibrant city has grown into a lively modern metropolis. From its hills — especially the Eagle’s Nest, accessible on foot or by funicular — you get sweeping views of the entire Zolotoi Rog Bay (Golden Horn).

  Its immense port, the largest on the Pacific and in the Russian Far East, stretches below, framed by surrounding mountains. History enthusiasts can explore the Vladivostok Fortress and its military museum, which retraces the region’s naval past. In the old town, the Millionka district reveals a mix of architectural styles — classical, baroque, and gothic.

  In the historic center, a stroll along the cobbled Fokina Street leads to the sea, passing hidden courtyards filled with cafés and restaurants. For a wilder escape, head to Russky Island, a pristine stretch of land with empty beaches and cliffs plunging into the ocean.

• The Kola Peninsula

  

  In the far north of the country, west of Finland, lies the remote Kola Peninsula. Often called “Russian Lapland,” this region offers vast, majestic northern landscapes.

  Following the shores of the Barents Sea, you cross the raw, untouched tundra. The journey begins above the Arctic Circle and leads all the way to the port city of Murmansk.

  Along the way, you can meet the Sami people, traditional reindeer herders, near Lake Lovozero. Depending on the itinerary, you might cross the frozen Lake Umbozero by snowmobile or venture into the Khibiny Mountains. From January to March, the night sky often lights up with the spectacular dance of the northern lights.

• Yekaterinburg

  

  Now we arrive in the economic heart of the Urals, on the border between Europe and Asia. Yekaterinburg is Russia’s fourth-largest city. It was here, in the former Ipatiev House, that Tsar Nicholas II and his entire family were executed on July 17, 1918.

  The house was later replaced by the Church on the Blood. Today, the city remains a major industrial hub, particularly for metallurgy. It also boasts several museums, including the Museum of Architecture and History, home to the “Shigir Collection” featuring the Great Shigir Idol — the oldest known wooden sculpture in the world, estimated to be 9,500 years old. Yekaterinburg’s cultural scene is lively, with numerous libraries, theaters, and exhibition centers.

  Downtown life is centered around Vaynera Pedestrian Street and Lenin Avenue, where a tourist bazaar, shops, bars, restaurants, and nightlife keep the area buzzing.