Why Russia now? Three practical reasons: an e-visa open to a number of nationalities including Saudi passports with far simpler steps than Schengen; prices, with Moscow and St Petersburg hotels and dining gentler on the budget than Paris or London at the same level; and the experience itself, European-grand cities with a character entirely their own.
When is the best time to visit Russia?
When to go? For mild weather and long walks, May to September, peaking in June and July when St Petersburg lives its white nights and the sun barely leaves the sky. If you're team snow, the Russian winter from December to February is the full experience: frozen rivers, white parks and warm winter markets.
Where do the days go between Moscow and St Petersburg?
Where do the days go? Moscow needs at least three: Red Square and the Kremlin, Arbat Street, and metro stations that look like palaces. St Petersburg deserves the same: the Hermitage alone takes a day, then Peterhof's fountains and a summer canal cruise.
What about language and halal food?
Language and food? English is limited outside major hotels, so keep a translation app and your hotel's address in Russian. Halal restaurants are well established in both big cities, delivery apps work everywhere, and Azerbaijani and Uzbek kitchens are a reliable fallback.
What should you confirm before booking?
Before booking: confirm your visa route by nationality first; the e-visa doesn't cover everyone and has fixed stay limits. Send us your nationality and dates on WhatsApp and we'll confirm the route, requirements and your document checklist shortly.
