Explore the Best Winter Holiday Spots in Russia 

Wintertime in Russia is a fairy tale: it is a snowy land of bright lights and fairytale buildings. Russia is a great place to spend winter holidays: from the great Kremlin in Moscow to the chilly banks of Lake Baikal and the picturesque snowy villages of Siberia, Russia is a place you will never forget. No matter what your interests, in skiing, cultural festivals, or just basking in the frosty beauty, Russia gives you a special combination of nature and heritage in the winter. 

To the UAE-based travellers, winter getaway to Russia has never been more convenient. You can easily get your Russia visa from Abu Dhabi with the help of Go kite Travel and start your snowy adventure with no hustle. This guide will discuss the best winter destinations in Russia and assist you to plan a smooth trip. 

1. Moscow A Winter Wonderland 

The capital of Russia, Moscow, is magical in winters. The city is decorated with Christmas lights, and Red Square appears to be taken out of a snow globe. Some of the things to do include skating at the GUM ice rink, touring the famous St. Basil Cathedral during the snowfall, or walking along the Arbat Street with a hot drink. 

Highlights: 

VDNKh and Gorky Park ice skating 

Red Square Christmas and New Year markets 

Bolshoi Theatre Russian ballet performances 

Moscow is also a perfect destination of a first-time traveller, as there are numerous organized tours, luxurious hotels, and convenient transport. Note, when you are travelling to Russia, you need to seek Russia visa in advance in the case you are travelling out of UAE through trusted agencies such as Go kite Travel to guarantee you a smooth entry process. 

2. St. Petersburg- Imperial Beauty in Snow 

St. Petersburg which is commonly referred to as the Venice of the North is a very romantic place that becomes more romantic in winter. The canals full of snow, the frosty rivers and the impressive architecture make it a fairy-tale. 

Highlights: 

Go to Hermitage Museum and Winter Palace 

Visit the concert series of the stars of the White Nights 

Visit Catherine Palace and its glittering halls 

Winter Festival of St. Petersburg presents Russian folklore, dances, and cuisines; an ideal festival to those who are fond of culture. It is also one of the most photogenic locations in Russia in winter thanks to its snowy backgrounds. 

3. Sochi- the Winter Sport Center of Russia 

Sochi is the place you want to be, in case you are rather active during winter holidays. On the coast of the Black Sea and bordered by the Caucasus Mountains, Sochi was the location of the 2014 Winter Olympics and provides ski resorts of international standards. 

Highlights: 

Snowboarding and skiing in Rosa Khutor and Krasnaya Polyana 

Wellness spas and hot springs 

The Museum and the Olympic Park 

Mild winter and modern facilities in Sochi make it a good location to visit with family or as a sports lover. The best way to book is to use a trusted travel agent such as Go kite Travel; this will guarantee you curated packages, accommodation and help with your Russia visa Abu Dhabi. 

4. Lake Baikal- The Frozen Giant 

The deepest and oldest freshwater lake is Lake Baikal in Siberia. During the winter it becomes a natural ice rink with a beautiful clear blue ice. This is a place to go to the adventurous spirit that wants to find some untouched nature and the natural beauty. 

Highlights: 

Trekking on ice and hovercraft on frozen Baikal 

Snowmobiling and dog sledding 

The feeling of the local Buryat tribes culture 

Lake Baikal is not very easily arrived at, but the payback is a memorable experience. A guided tour is highly encouraged particularly in winter. Make sure that everything is documented and apply Russia visa in Abu Dhabi earlier before planning to avoid delays. 

5. Murmansk The Land of Northern Lights 

Have you ever imagined the Northern Lights? Visit the biggest city of the Arctic Circle to get an opportunity to observe this heavenly phenomenon in Murmansk. Murmansk has a harsh winter that is beautiful. 

Highlights: 

Viewing of Aurora Borealis between December and March 

Husky sled tours and snowmobile tours 

The trip to the nuclear-powered ship Icebreaker Lenin 

Murmansk is a unique chance to see the Arctic life. To the UAE citizens, the advance booking with such specialists as Go kite Travel will assist in organizing the cold climate logistics, renting equipment, and obtaining your Russia visa in Abu Dhabi with maximum efficiency. 

6. Karelia Russia- The Winter Secret 

The underrated winter destination Karelia is close to the Finnish border and is laden with deep forests, frozen waterfalls, and snow-dusted wooden churches. It is also perfect to eco-tourism and people who want to have a break at the big cities. 

Highlights: 

Kivach Waterfall and Ruskeala Marble Canyon 

Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing 

Live in wooden cabins and use typical Russian saunas (banyas) 

7. Vladivostok Asians and Russia become acquainted 

Vladivostok is a city that can be recommended to those who would like to see the Far East of Russia; it is a mixture of Russian and Asian culture. During winter, the Sea of Japan is usually frozen and the scenery is a frozen delight. 

Highlights: 

Go to the Eagles Nest Hill to have a panoramic view of the city 

Visit the frozen Amur Bay 

Ice fishing and food tours of culture 

Vladivostok is a less visited destination and a tour operator such as Go kite Travel will help you avoid any problems, such as finding a place to stay, guides, and your Russia visa in Abu Dhabi. 

Conclusion 

Winter in Russia is not merely season, it is a kind of experience which consists of Christmas mood, spirit of adventures and cultural depth. Red Square skating, skiing in Sochi or following Northern Lights in Murmansk, Russia has something to offer to any kind of a traveller in the snowy months. Russia offers beautiful sceneries, colorful festivals, and exciting adventures, and this explains why winter is increasingly becoming a favorite holiday destination by tourists in the UAE. 

In case you plan to enjoy the Russian winter, be sure to follow the basics: select a reliable travel agency such as Go kite Travel, and apply for Russia visa from Abu Dhabi well beforehand. Planned and directed well, your winter getaway in Russia will be nothing but an extraordinary experience.