last edited Dec 11, 2019
Introduction to Russia
Quick Overview
Covering over 17 million km², Russia is the world’s largest country, stretching from Eastern Europe to the Pacific across 11 time zones (from Kaliningrad to the Kuril Islands). While mostly flat, it features mountain ranges in the Caucasus and along the borders of China and Mongolia. Geographically, the Ural Mountains mark the divide between Russia’s European and Asian parts.
Despite its vast size, Russia has a low population density—fewer than 10 inhabitants per km²—with most people concentrated in the western part of the country. The harsh climate explains this sparse population. While 80% of the population is ethnically Russian, the country is also home to numerous minorities, some of which have partial autonomy over their territories. Russia’s wealth comes largely from its natural resources, particularly oil, gas, and iron.
Key Facts
- Location: East of Europe and north of China.
- Latitude/longitude: 55°45' N, 37°42' E (Moscow).
- Local time: for the capital. The country spans eleven time zones, from UTC+2 to UTC+12.
- Capital: Moscow
- Government: federal republic.
- Official languages: Russian (plus various local languages).
- Currency: ruble.
- Population: 142,122,776 (2018).
- Area: 17,125,191 km².
- Density: 8.5 inhabitants/km².
- Highest point: Mount Elbrus (5,642 m).
- Lowest point: Caspian Sea (-28 m).
- Coastline: 37,653 km.
- Driving side: right.
- Flag: [drapeau: Russie]
Tourism
Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Vladivostok, the Trans-Siberian Railway, Siberia with its vast and rugged landscapes—Russia has plenty to inspire both culture seekers and nature-adventure enthusiasts, even if traveling there isn’t always straightforward.
Each year, the country welcomes over 20 million visitors (24.551 million in 2018), many from former Soviet republics or China. Western travelers are relatively few, with just over a million visitors from the EU (led by Germans, French, and Finns), who would likely come in greater numbers if entry and visa requirements were simpler. Unsurprisingly, Moscow and Saint Petersburg are the most visited destinations for foreign tourists.
Travel Essentials
- Destination: Suitable for beginners (Moscow and St. Petersburg) and more experienced travelers (rest of the country).
- By air: France to Moscow.
- Entry requirements: Passport valid for at least six months after entry date + visa + insurance + tourist voucher.
- Currency to bring:
- Exchange rate:
- Daily backpacker budget:
- Best for accommodation:
- Best for getting around:
- Risks:
- Best time for climate/crowds/prices:
- Interests (out of ): Nature ; Adventure ; Culture ; Relaxation/Holidays
Useful Addresses
Socio-Economic Statistics
- "Quality of life": 49/188 (2018 ranking)
- GDP per capita: $27,900 (2017)
- Average monthly income: ()
- Inflation: +3.7% (2017)
- "Official" unemployment: 5.2% (2017)
- Population below poverty line: 13.3% (2015)
- Life expectancy: 71.3 years (2018)
- Migration rate per 1,000 inhabitants: +1.7 (2017)
- Population growth: -0.11% (2018)
- Literacy rate: 99.7% (2015)
- Urban population: 74.4% (2018)
- Press freedom: 148/180 (2018 ranking)
- Political regime: Authoritarian regime (144/167 in 2018)
Sources: World Bank, Human Development Indicators, RSF, The Economist, The World Factbook