Russia Travel Guide

Last Updated on 20 February 2026 by Johan

TravelGuideEurope.eu does not endorse or promote travel to Russia, Belarus, or Kazakhstan. This page provides factual, neutral information about Russia’s geography, history, climate, and natural regions for educational purposes.

Russia is the largest country in the world, spanning northern Asia and the western part of Europe. The Ural Mountains traditionally mark the boundary between the European and Asian continents, placing western Russia within Europe and the vast remainder in Asia. The country borders the Arctic Ocean to the north and the North Pacific Ocean to the east, with an extensive coastline that stretches across multiple seas and climatic zones.

Geography and Borders

Russia covers more than 17 million square kilometers, making it the world’s largest country by land area. Its territory includes tundra, taiga forests, steppes, mountain ranges, and Arctic islands. The landscape varies dramatically from west to east, reflecting the country’s immense size.

Russia shares land borders with fourteen countries:

Russia also has one of the longest coastlines in the world, measuring approximately 37,653 kilometers. Its coasts lie along the Arctic Ocean, the Baltic Sea, the Black Sea, the Sea of Japan, and the Bering Sea.

Terrain and Natural Regions in Russia

Russia’s terrain is shaped by vast plains, mountain systems, and extensive forested areas.

European Russia

The western part of the country consists mainly of broad plains and low hills. This region includes major cities such as Moscow and Saint Petersburg and is home to the majority of Russia’s population.

Siberia

East of the Urals lies Siberia, a region dominated by coniferous forests (taiga), tundra, and permafrost. Siberia stretches from the Arctic Ocean to the borders of Mongolia and China. It is known for its extreme climate, long winters, and vast wilderness.

Southern Mountain Regions

Along the southern borders, Russia features several mountain ranges, including the Caucasus Mountains, home to Mount Elbrus, the highest peak in Europe. Other ranges include the Altai Mountains and the Sayan Mountains.

Arctic and Far East

Northern Russia includes Arctic islands, tundra landscapes, and coastal regions influenced by polar climates. The Russian Far East features volcanic landscapes, rugged coastlines, and diverse wildlife.

Climate in Russia

Russia’s climate varies widely due to its size and geography. The country includes several major climate zones:

  • Steppe climate in the south, with hot summers and cold winters
  • Humid continental climate in much of European Russia
  • Sub‑arctic climate across Siberia
  • Tundra climate in the far north
  • Moderate coastal climates in parts of the Far East

Winters range from cool along the Black Sea coast to extremely cold in Siberia, where temperatures can drop below −40°C. Summers vary from warm in the southern steppes to cool along the Arctic coast.

Historical Overview of Russia

Russia’s modern history is shaped by imperial expansion, revolution, and political transformation.

Russian Empire

The Russian Empire grew over centuries, becoming one of the world’s largest empires by the early 20th century. Its defeat in World War I triggered political upheaval.

Soviet Union

In 1917, the Bolshevik Revolution led to the creation of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR). Under Josef Stalin (1924–1953), the Soviet Union experienced rapid industrialization, political repression, and significant human suffering. After Stalin’s death, the country entered a period of relative stability but also stagnation.

Reforms and Dissolution

In the 1980s, Mikhail Gorbachev introduced reforms known as glasnost (openness) and perestroika (restructuring). These policies aimed to modernize the Soviet system but also accelerated political change. By December 1991, the USSR dissolved into fifteen independent republics, including the Russian Federation.

Post‑Soviet Russia

Since 1991, Russia has undergone political and economic transitions. The country has faced challenges in building democratic institutions and a market economy. Its international relations and domestic policies continue to shape global discussions.

Population and Society of Russia

Russia has a population of around 144 million people. The country is ethnically diverse, with more than 190 recognized ethnic groups. Russian is the official language, and the majority of the population identifies with the Russian Orthodox Church, although many other religions are practiced.

Urban centers such as Moscow and Saint Petersburg are cultural and economic hubs, known for their architecture, museums, and historical sites.

Nature and Wildlife in Russia

Russia’s ecosystems range from Arctic tundra to temperate forests and mountain habitats. Wildlife includes:

  • Brown bears
  • Wolves
  • Lynx
  • Reindeer
  • Siberian tigers (in the Far East)
  • Arctic foxes
  • Numerous bird species in wetlands and coastal areas

Protected areas such as national parks and nature reserves help preserve biodiversity across the country.

Tourism Context

TravelGuideEurope.eu does not promote or endorse travel to Russia. However, for general informational purposes: Russia is known for its cultural heritage, historic cities, and natural landscapes. Major attractions include:

  • Moscow’s Red Square and Kremlin
  • Saint Petersburg’s palaces and museums
  • Lake Baikal, the world’s deepest freshwater lake
  • The Trans‑Siberian Railway
  • The Golden Ring towns northeast of Moscow

This information is provided solely for educational context.

Sources

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