The largest country in the world, Russia combines the imperial pomp with natural harsh beauty, rich history and culture. Snowy mountains of the Caucasus Mountains and architectural wonders of Moscow and St. Petersburg to name a few, the country is packed with experiences that first-time visitors will get. Are you fascinated with arts, fascinated with Soviet history or just eager to see untouched nature, Russia has something to offer to everyone.

Nevertheless, a first time visit to Russia can prove to be an overwhelming experience unless one is well prepared. Ranging as far as acquiring a Russia visa from dubai to knowing the local customs and transportation system, there are quite a number of factors that travelers need to consider. Here is the ultimate guide to visiting Russia, including all the essential information you should know about traveling here: travel papers, weather, local customs, and safety precautions so that your trip starts with no stress and only excitement.

1. Russia Visa should be obtained in Advance

Among the initial things that you should know about visiting Russia is the fact that virtually all foreign nationals are required to obtain a Russia visa prior to entering the country. Russia does not offer visa on arrival, therefore, you need to obtain Russia visa at a consulate or an official visa center in your home country. The visas vary in type; they are tourist, business and student visas and this is dependent on the reason why you are travelling. To obtain a tourist visa, you will normally be required to provide a passport with at least 6 months remaining on it, a filled in application form with a recent photograph, evidence of your accommodation, and an official invitation letter (also called visa support document) issued by a Russian travel agency or hotel. Depending on the process it can take between 7 to 20 business days and therefore always plan ahead.

2. Learn the Geography and Distance

Russia is immense--so immense, indeed, that it comprises 11 time-zones and stretches across Europe and Asia. The implication of this is that travel between cities such as Moscow and Vladivostok may take a number of hours in an aeroplane or even days in a train. One of the things that first-time visitors must learn about visiting Russia is that it is important to plan your itinerary. It is better to use popular routes like MoscowSt. PetersburgGolden Ring in case it is your first trip. One of the most common and scenic means of transport is trains, particularly the legendary Trans-Siberian Railway to travel long-distance in Russia. You can also fly domestically which is reliable and saves you a lot of traveling time.

3. There is a lot of Variability in Weather

The climate of Russia is arctic in Siberia and subtropical in the region of the Black Sea. Moscow and St. Petersburg have long winters and snow in November to March; summers (June to August) are rather warm and ideal for sightseeing. The one thing that travelers must know about visiting Russia is to dress accordingly to the season and bring layers in case you are going to visit more than one city. Spring and fall are unpredictable with the weather changing very fast, thus, a waterproof jacket and sturdy footwear are necessary. Travelling during winter is a mystical experience-snowy cathedrals and frozen rivers-but requires both good thermal clothing and protection against icy conditions.

4. Language Barrier Is Not Imaginary

The official language is Russian and though English is spoken in large hotels and tourist attractions, it is not very common in countryside or small cities. It is strongly advised that novice travellers should learn some simple Russian words or download translation applications in order to go around. The other tip you must learn about visiting Russia is that metros and other places tend to have signs written in Cyrillic. Getting acquainted with Cyrillic letters will allow you to read maps, move around the metro and the city easier.

5. Currency, Payments and Internet Access

Russia has the Russian Ruble (RUB) and in spite of the fact that larger cities accept credit and debit cards, cash remains necessary, particularly in smaller establishments and in areas that are rural. ATMs are well distributed and tend to provide English language services. Exchanging money in official banks or exchange bureaus is preferable to obtain better rates, and to prevent frauds. Internet access via mobile and Wi-Fi are relatively good and cheap. Local SIM card is available and can be purchased at the airport or in local telecom stores. Such apps as Yandex Maps, Yandex Taxi, and Google Translate can make your trip much easier.

 6. Adhere to Local Customs and Laws

The Russian society is formal and respectful. Upon meeting somebody, a strong handshake accompanied by straight eye contact is desirable. Women are supposed to wear head coverings in church and religious places and men should take off their hats. Modest dressing is also welcome particularly when in monasteries or towns in the countryside. Among the things you must know about visiting Russia is that it is unlawful to take photographs of some buildings such as military or strategic buildings of government. Never take photographs of people without their permission particularly in rural or traditional places.

7. Visit the Landmarks and Non-Touristy Attractions

Moscow Red Square, the Kremlin, St. Basil Cathedral, and the Bolshoi Theatre are the major attractions that a person cannot miss visiting Russia. The Hermitage Museum, Peterhof Palace and the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood are not to be missed in St. Petersburg. To have a more original experience you can visit Lake Baikal, the deepest and oldest freshwater lake in the world, or you can visit Kazan, the city of co-existence of Russian and Tatar cultures. These places give a better understanding of the wide heritage and geography of Russia.

8. Metro Systems and Transportation Is Effective

A significant advantage of traveling in Russia is the fact that there is a great public transport in large cities. The Moscow Metro is both a tourist attraction and a convenient means of transport, as it has artistic stations. Prices of tickets are cheap and the network is wide. Uber alternatives are cheaper taxi services such as Yandex Taxi or Gett. One should not hail cabs in the street. Most cities also have buses, trams, and trolleybuses and travel passes may save your time and money.

9. Emergency and Safety Information

Although Russia is relatively safe to tourists, petty crimes like pick pocketing are possible especially at tourist busy places. Never leave your belongings unattended to, and do not show off valuables. It is also recommended to check-in your visa on arrival which is normally automatically done by your hotel or host. Save emergency numbers, in Russia the universal emergency number is 112. It is also advisable to carry a copy of your passport and visa at all times since the police has the right to be able to verify any time.

Conclusion:

The first time in Russia can be a wonderful and very rich experience. Nevertheless, it is important to plan well to overcome the cultural, linguistic, and logistics differences. When you first apply to receive a Russia visa and until you get to see the snow-covered onion domes of St. Basil, the experience can be seamless and fun with proper preparation.

Having what you need to know about visiting Russia, you can now accept the challenge with confidence. Comprehending local traditions, anticipating weather changes, familiarizing yourself with means of transport in the country will not only save you time and stress, but also will enable you to experience the beauty and depth of Russian culture on a completely different level. Therefore, prepare, pack and begin your adventure by making your Russia visa application today!