Essential Travel Guide to Russia: Tips for a Safe and Smooth Journey

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Summary

This comprehensive guide offers essential tips for travelers to Russia, covering safety, transportation, registration requirements, and financial transactions. It highlights the importance of preparation, from understanding visa requirements to navigating local transportation options like Yandex Go. The guide also advises on dealing with currency and banking challenges, ensuring a smooth travel experience in major cities like Moscow and Saint Petersburg.

Moscow & Saint Petersburg

Major cities like Moscow and Saint Petersburg are generally safe for travelers, with common big city issues.

Tips

Exercise common sense and be aware of your surroundings. Scams and heavy traffic are common.

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Russian Railroads

An official website for Russian railroads offers ticket purchases and timetable viewing.

Tips

No restrictions on travel across Russia by car, but some areas may require special permits.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Trans Siberian Railway - FIRST CLASS Train Tour", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HKqj4mYcU2U", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Aug 15, 2019", "length": "" }</div>

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Land Border Crossing

Foreign tourists can enter Russia by any means of transport, visa required.

Tips

Ensure to have all necessary documents and be aware of the vehicle rules when crossing by car.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Finland closes all border points with Russia for two weeks to ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YpwBElW4gT8", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Nov 30, 2023", "length": "" }</div>

Finnish Border Crossings

Three major Finnish border crossings with Russia are planned to be opened.

Tips

Check for the latest updates on border status and required documents for crossing.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Finland closes land border with Russia", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4UVBZesv9I", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Nov 29, 2023", "length": "" }</div>

Registration in Russia

Mandatory registration for foreigners and tourists in Russia.

Tips

Complete registration within the first 24 hours of arrival to avoid penalties.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "How to Get a Russian Visa for Americans", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kb7eMg8rutA", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Sep 15, 2018", "length": "" }</div>

Migration Card

Migration card is required for foreign tourists entering Russia.

Tips

Keep the migration card with you during your stay and present it upon departure.

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Moscow Airports

Moscow has three main airports: Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo, and Vnukovo.

Tips

Consider distance and transportation options when choosing your airport.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Moscow Metro: How to get from Vnukovo Airport to Moscow", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8fWeN-fszNU", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Sep 14, 2023", "length": "" }</div>

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Taxi Services

Yandex Go is the most popular taxi service in Russia, offering various classes of rides.

Tips

Use the app to book rides and avoid overcharges by drivers.

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