Russia Breaks the ‘Two Capitals’ Mold as Foreign Tourism Expands Nationwide

Foreign tourists no longer perceive Russia as a country limited to two major destinations. According to the Association of Tour Operators of Russia, international visitors are now actively exploring regions across the country, marking a significant shift in travel patterns.

Photo: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:RU_Lake_Baikal_Olkhon_Cape_Khoboy_0003.jpg by Alexander Klink

Lake Baikal

Alexander Musihin, CEO of tour operator Intourist, said that before the pandemic nearly 90 percent of foreign visitors restricted their trips to Moscow and St Petersburg. Today, he noted, the geography of inbound tourism has expanded dramatically.

"If earlier most foreign guests limited themselves to Moscow and St Petersburg, now the situation has changed fundamentally.”

New Regions Attract International Visitors

Among the destinations gaining popularity with foreign travelers are the Russian Far East, Lake Baikal, Kazan, and Murmansk. These regions are attracting tourists with their natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and unique historical identity.

Tour operators report growing interest in Arctic tourism in the north, ethnic and religious diversity in the Volga region, and eco-tourism in Siberia. For many visitors, these locations offer experiences that differ sharply from traditional European city tourism.

Rising Demand for Combined Tours

Another notable trend is the growing demand for combined tours, in which travelers visit several cities and regions during a single trip. Such itineraries allow visitors to experience Russia's geographic scale and cultural contrasts in a short time.

According to industry representatives, combined routes are particularly popular among repeat visitors who have already seen the major capitals and are now seeking deeper immersion.

Tourist Preferences Vary by Country

Musihin highlighted that preferences differ significantly depending on travelers' countries of origin. Tourists from Turkey show strong interest in routes across the Russian North, while visitors from Argentina have requested journeys along the Trans-Siberian Railway.

Japanese tourists, meanwhile, have actively explored Yekaterinburg, discovering the city's industrial heritage, modern urban culture, and historical significance.

"Requests that once seemed exotic are now becoming reality.”

A Broader Image of Russia

Experts believe the shift reflects both changing tourist expectations and improved regional infrastructure. As international travelers seek authentic experiences, lesser-known Russian regions are gaining visibility and recognition.

The trend suggests that Russia's image abroad is evolving from a destination defined by two iconic cities into a vast country offering diverse cultural, natural, and historical experiences across its territory.