How many days do you need in Russia, for?

This itinerary covers 7 days in Russia, for, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Russia, for?

Plan your perfect 7 days trip to Russia, for. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

7-Day Winter Backpacking Adventure Across Russia in December

Day 1: Moscow Landmarks

Moscow, Russia on December 1, 2025

9:00am

Red Square and Kremlin

Start your trip with a visit to Red Square and the Kremlin, iconic symbols of Russia’s history and politics. Explore the fortified complex and admire the architecture, including St. Basil's Cathedral.

RUB700, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Teremok

Enjoy traditional Russian fast food like blinis and borscht at Teremok, a popular eatery open till late, perfect for a quick meal in downtown Moscow.

RUB350, 1h0m

2:00pm

State Historical Museum

Visit this large museum on Red Square showcasing Russian history from ancient times to the present, a great overview before deeper exploration.

RUB500, 1h30m

4:00pm

Walk along Arbat Street

Stroll this pedestrian street filled with shops, street performers, and cafes. It's a vibrant spot to experience local culture and grab souvenirs.

Free, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Café Pushkin

Dine in a charming restaurant serving classic Russian cuisine with a cozy atmosphere, perfect for warming up after a day in the cold December air.

RUB1200, 2h0m

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Day 2: Moscow Museums

Moscow, Russia on December 2, 2025

9:00am

Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts

Explore this renowned museum showing European art from ancient to modern times, ideal for art lovers.

RUB500, 2h0m

11:30am

Breakfast at Dr. Zhivago

Savor hearty Russian breakfasts with a Soviet-era ambiance in this centrally located cafe.

RUB600, 1h0m

1:00pm

Tretyakov Gallery

Visit the foremost gallery for Russian art from medieval icons to contemporary pieces, a cultural highlight.

RUB700, 2h0m

3:30pm

Explore Gorky Park

Enjoy a winter walk in Gorky Park, the city’s favorite green space which often hosts winter activities and ice skating.

Free or ice skate rental approx RUB400, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at LavkaLavka

Taste farm-to-table Russian dishes at this sustainable restaurant offering seasonal and local produce in a warm atmosphere.

RUB1000, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Moscow

Day 3: Train to Saint Petersburg

Moscow to Saint Petersburg, Russia on December 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Izmailovsky Market

Grab coffee and pastries at this vibrant market known for crafts and local foods before departure.

RUB300, 1h0m

9:30am

Sapsan Train to Saint Petersburg

Take the high-speed Sapsan train from Leningradsky Station to Saint Petersburg, a 4-hour scenic journey through Russian winter landscapes.

RUB2500, 4h0m

2:00pm

Check-in and Lunch near Nevsky Prospekt

Settle into your hostel and enjoy lunch at a nearby café offering pelmeni and hearty soups to keep warm.

RUB400, 1h0m

3:30pm

Hermitage Museum

Explore one of the largest and oldest museums in the world featuring vast art collections housed in the Winter Palace. Open until 6pm on weekdays.

RUB900, 2h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Pyshechnaya

Enjoy traditional Russian doughnuts and tea at this nostalgic café operating since Soviet times, perfect for a light and sweet dinner.

RUB300, 1h0m

Find Hotels in Moscow to Saint Petersburg

Day 4: Saint Petersburg Sights

Saint Petersburg, Russia on December 4, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Zoom Café

Start the day with gourmet coffee and healthy breakfast options at this trendy local spot.

RUB350, 1h0m

10:00am

Peter and Paul Fortress

Visit this historic fortress, birthplace of the city, with a cathedral containing the tombs of Russian tsars.

RUB700, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Kuznya House

Dine riverside on modern Russian cuisine in the damproom of a shipyard, open from noon, perfect for warming up.

RUB900, 1h0m

2:00pm

Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood

Admire this colorful and ornate Russian Orthodox church famous for its mosaics, open until 6pm in December.

RUB400, 1h0m

3:30pm

Nevsky Prospekt Walk

Explore the city’s main avenue with impressive architecture, shops, and cafes, providing an authentic city vibe.

Free, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Teplo

Cozy restaurant specializing in comfort food with a warm atmosphere, open until 11pm.

RUB1000, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Saint Petersburg

Day 5: Veliky Novgorod Day Trip

Saint Petersburg to Veliky Novgorod, Russia on December 5, 2025

7:00am

Early Train to Veliky Novgorod

Catch a morning train from Saint Petersburg to Veliky Novgorod, a historical city known for medieval architecture, taking about 3 hours.

RUB1200, 3h0m

10:30am

Breakfast near Veliky Novgorod Station

Enjoy local pastries and tea at a nearby café after arrival.

RUB300, 1h0m

11:30am

Veliky Novgorod Kremlin and Museums

Explore the historic kremlin with its ancient churches and museums detailing Russia’s medieval history, open 10am-6pm.

RUB600, 2h30m

2:00pm

Lunch at Ryumochka

Taste traditional Russian dishes in this cozy local favorite to recover from the morning walk.

RUB700, 1h0m

3:30pm

Yaroslav's Court Historical Complex

Visit this open-air museum about the roots of Russian statehood, a peaceful winter walk spot.

RUB350, 1h0m

5:00pm

Return Train to Saint Petersburg

Head back by train to Saint Petersburg for overnight rest.

RUB1200, 3h0m

8:30pm

Late Dinner at Pizzeria Paolo

Enjoy a casual late dinner at this affordable and popular pizzeria near your accommodation.

RUB500, 1h0m

Find Hotels in Saint Petersburg to Veliky Novgorod

Day 6: Kazan Journey

Saint Petersburg to Kazan, Russia on December 6, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Saint Petersburg Station

Grab a quick breakfast and coffee before boarding the train to Kazan.

RUB300, 0h30m

7:30am

Overnight Train to Kazan

Board the overnight sleeper train heading east to Kazan, offering a unique view of Russia’s Ural landscapes; journey lasts about 12 hours.

RUB3000, 12h0m

9:30pm

Arrival and Check-in at Kazan Hostel

Settle into your hostel in Kazan and rest after a long journey.

RUB800, Overnight

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Day 7: Explore Kazan

Kazan, Russia on December 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Khakhalova 28

Enjoy traditional Tatar breakfast dishes in a friendly family-run café popular among locals.

RUB400, 1h0m

9:30am

Kazan Kremlin

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site featuring a blend of Russian and Tatar architecture including the Kul Sharif Mosque and Annunciation Cathedral, open 10am-6pm.

RUB450, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Dom Tatarskoy Kulinarii

Taste authentic Tatar cuisine such as echpochmak and chak-chak in a welcoming setting.

RUB700, 1h0m

1:30pm

Bauman Street Walk

Explore this lively pedestrian street filled with shops, historic buildings, and cafes, perfect for souvenir shopping.

Free, 2h0m

4:00pm

Visit Temple of All Religions

Check out this unique architectural complex symbolizing religious unity, open daily, a fascinating blend of styles.

Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Tugan Avylym

Indulge in Tatar and Russian dishes with live music for a lively farewell dinner to your trip.

RUB900, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Kazan

Step 1 Outline Preview:

7-Day Winter Backpacking Adventure Across Russia in December

Day 1: Moscow Landmarks

9:00am

12:30pm

2:00pm

4:00pm

6:30pm

Day 2: Moscow Museums

9:00am

11:30am

1:00pm

3:30pm

6:00pm

Day 3: Train to Saint Petersburg

8:00am

9:30am

2:00pm

3:30pm

6:30pm

Day 4: Saint Petersburg Sights

9:00am

10:00am

12:30pm

2:00pm

3:30pm

6:30pm

Day 5: Veliky Novgorod Day Trip

7:00am

10:30am

11:30am

2:00pm

3:30pm

5:00pm

8:30pm

Day 6: Kazan Journey

7:00am

7:30am

9:30pm

Day 7: Explore Kazan

8:00am

9:30am

12:00pm

1:30pm

4:00pm

6:00pm

Plan Your Russia, for Trip