Russia is the world’s largest country, and it is full of extraordinary places that most travelers never get a chance to see. From magical old towns and remote natural wonders to colorful cities with deep history, Russia offers something truly unique for every visitor. The good news is that traveling to Russia has become much easier in recent years thanks to the introduction of the Online Russian eVisa system.

With a valid eVisa, visitors from many countries can now explore Russia without the long process of traditional visa applications. In this article, you will discover some of the most unique places to visit in Russia, along with helpful information about the eVisa requirements.

Understanding the Russian eVisa

Before planning your trip, it is important to know how the Russian eVisa works.

1. Who can apply?
   Citizens of many countries, including those from Europe, parts of Asia, and the Middle East, are eligible. The list is regularly updated, so always check the latest information before applying.

2. Where is it valid?
   The eVisa is accepted in certain regions and entry points of Russia, such as St. Petersburg, Kaliningrad, and the Far East. The system is expanding, so more regions are being added over time.

3. How long is it valid?
   Usually, the eVisa allows a stay of up to 16 days in Russia.

4. How to apply?
   The process is simple: fill in an online Russian eVisa application form, upload a photo, and pay the processing fee. Approval often comes within four days.

Now that the entry process is clear, let’s look at the incredible and unique destinations you can explore once your eVisa is approved.

1. St. Petersburg – The Cultural Gem

No trip to Russia is complete without visiting St. Petersburg, often called the “Venice of the North.” This city is filled with canals, bridges, and breathtaking architecture.

1. Explore the Hermitage Museum, one of the largest and oldest museums in the world.

2. Walk through the Peterhof Palace, known as the “Russian Versailles,” with its golden fountains and gardens.

3. Visit the colorful Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, a symbol of Russian artistry.

St. Petersburg is also one of the main regions where the eVisa is valid, making it an ideal first stop for travelers.

2. Kazan – Where Europe Meets Asia

Kazan is the capital of Tatarstan and one of the most unique cities in Russia. It is famous for its mix of Russian and Tatar cultures, Christian and Muslim traditions, and European and Asian influences.

1. The Kazan Kremlin is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can see both a mosque and an Orthodox cathedral standing side by side.

2. The Kul Sharif Mosque is one of the most stunning mosques in Russia, especially beautiful at night.

3. Enjoy Tatar cuisine, which is very different from typical Russian food, with dishes like chak-chak (a honey dessert) and echpochmak (meat pastry).

Kazan shows how diverse and multicultural Russia truly is.

3. Kaliningrad – Russia’s European Corner

Kaliningrad is a small region of Russia located between Poland and Lithuania on the Baltic Sea. With an eVisa, this is one of the easiest parts of Russia to visit.

1. Discover the Curonian Spit, a narrow strip of sand dunes and forests stretching along the sea, listed as a UNESCO site.

2. Visit the Amber Museum, as Kaliningrad is the world’s amber capital.

3. Walk through the city’s old German architecture, since Kaliningrad was once the city of Königsberg before World War II.

Kaliningrad feels very different from the rest of Russia and is perfect for travelers looking for something off the beaten path.

4. Lake Baikal – The Oldest Lake in the World

Lake Baikal in Siberia is not just any lake – it is the world’s oldest and deepest freshwater lake, holding 20% of the Earth’s unfrozen fresh water.

1. In summer, you can hike along the Great Baikal Trail and enjoy views of crystal-clear water.

2. In winter, the lake freezes, and visitors can walk, skate, or even drive across its frozen surface.

3. The villages around Baikal, such as Listvyanka, offer a taste of Siberian hospitality and local dishes like smoked omul fish.

This natural wonder is one of the most unique places on Earth.

5. Vladivostok – Russia’s Pacific Gateway

Located near China, Korea, and Japan, Vladivostok is Russia’s window to the Pacific Ocean. The city combines Russian culture with an Asian influence.

1. See the impressive Golden Bridge and Russky Bridge, symbols of modern Russia.

2. Visit the Vladivostok Fortress, which played an important role in Russian military history.

3. Take a ride on the Trans-Siberian Railway, which begins here and travels all the way to Moscow.

Vladivostok is one of the main regions where the eVisa is valid, so it is very accessible for foreign travelers.

6. Sochi – The Pearl of the Black Sea

Famous for hosting the 2014 Winter Olympics, Sochi is both a summer and winter destination.

1. Relax on the Black Sea beaches during summer.

2. Explore the Caucasus Mountains, perfect for hiking or skiing depending on the season.

3. Visit the Sochi Arboretum to see rare plants and stunning views over the city.

Sochi is unique because it combines seaside resorts with mountain landscapes, all in one place.

7. Murmansk – Land of the Northern Lights

For travelers who dream of seeing the Aurora Borealis, Murmansk is one of the best destinations in Russia.

1. From September to March, the northern skies often glow with green and purple lights.

2. Explore the Arctic environment, including snowmobile rides and husky sled tours.

3. Visit the Alyosha Monument and learn about Murmansk’s history as a port city during World War II.

Murmansk offers a once-in-a-lifetime Arctic adventure.

8. Suzdal – A Step Back in Time

Suzdal is part of Russia’s Golden Ring, a group of ancient towns northeast of Moscow. Unlike big cities, Suzdal feels like a living museum.

1. Wooden houses, old churches, and monasteries make the town look like a painting.

2. The Suzdal Kremlin and Museum of Wooden Architecture show what life was like centuries ago.

3. Festivals here often include folk music, costumes, and traditional food.

Suzdal is perfect for travelers who want to see authentic Russian culture away from modern city life.

9. Kamchatka Peninsula – Wild Nature at Its Best

For adventurous travelers, Kamchatka is one of the most remote and untouched places in Russia.

1. Home to more than 300 volcanoes, including the active Klyuchevskaya Sopka.

2. The Valley of Geysers is the second largest geyser field in the world.

3. Wildlife lovers can spot brown bears, sea eagles, and even whales along the coast.

Kamchatka is not the easiest place to reach, but its natural wonders are truly unforgettable.

10. Yekaterinburg – At the Border of Europe and Asia

Yekaterinburg is a fascinating city located right on the border between Europe and Asia.

1. Visit the Church on the Blood, built on the site where the last Russian Tsar and his family were killed.

2. Stand on the Europe-Asia border monument where you can literally place one foot in each continent.

3. The city also has a vibrant modern art and music scene.

Yekaterinburg shows the balance between Russia’s dramatic history and its modern cultural growth.

Final Thoughts

Russia is a land of endless variety – from golden palaces and historic cities to frozen lakes and active volcanoes. Each region offers something new, and thanks to the Russian eVisa, exploring these destinations has become easier than ever before.

Whether you choose the cultural elegance of St. Petersburg, the wild landscapes of Kamchatka, or the multicultural beauty of Kazan, your journey will be full of unique experiences.

So, prepare your eVisa, pack your bags, and get ready to discover the most unforgettable places in Russia.