Moscow and St. Petersburg are obvious travel destinations, especially for the first-time traveler to Russia. But what about other cities and towns in Russia? They're worth visiting, too! Russia's cities and towns all have their own personalities and will make their particular marks on your travel memories.
Moscow - Russia's Capital City
iStockphoto/Chris Ronneseth
Moscow has long been the heart of Russia. With the Kremlin, Lenin's body, and the Tretyakov Gallery, Moscow represents Russia's place in history and the world.
St. Petersburg
CC by Carlton Browne
St. Petersburg is Russia's "window to the West." Built by Peter the Great in the 18th century, this Russian city is full of beautiful architecture, lively entertainment, and spectacular art. If you find Moscow too gritty, St. Petersburg might be your best alternative.
Sochi
iStockphoto/liseykina
Sochi is a Black Sea resort city in the southern part of Russia. It has been designated the host city of the 2014 Winter Olympics.
Suzdal
CC BY-NC-SA Routard05
Yaroslavl
iStockphoto/eeX
Yaroslavl celebrated its 1000th anniversary in 2010. This city has a preserved historic core that allows visitors to envision what old Russia was like.
Rostov-on-Don
iStockphoto/trait2lumiere
Rostov-on-Don is located on the Don River. Beloved by Russia's past literary and artistic greats, Rostov-on-Don has a rich cultural heritage.
Pereslavl-Zalessky
CC BY-NC-ND carlfbagge
Rostov Veliky
CC BY-SA Elena Schurova
Kaliningrad
iStockphoto/leonkenig
Separated from the rest of Russia by Poland, Kaliningrad is a naval port on the Baltic Sea. It was taken from Germany by Russia in WWII.
Sergiev Posad
CC BY Jean & Nathalie
