When planning travel to Russia, there are several factors to consider, including the distance from your home, the weather when you arrive, and the airfare. Of course, if you are familiar with the weather in Russia, you will know that it often has the highest impact on planning a Russia trip, as many things to do in the country are weather-dependent. Typically, many travelers prefer to avoid the crowds, but this is one place that is much more exciting when the crowds of locals return to their homes from vacation in the late summer and early autumn months. Russia is teeming with activities and fun things to do, from exploring the great outdoors in Siberia to experiencing the lively cities. While the weather is most likely a key factor in your vacation, it is important to also consider your choice of activities, as there are various times throughout the year that are best to visit Russia for certain activities, such as skiing and river cruises.

There are several things to consider when planning a Russia trip, and deciding when to travel to Russia is one of the most important factors of planning a vacation. Russia is one of the coldest countries, but the summer season can be quite warm, making it exceptionally popular among tourists, so be aware of the potential crowds. Summer weather in both Moscow and St Petersburg, as well as many other popular destinations in Russia such as Lake Baikal in Siberia, is preferred by most visitors, and this time of year is usually considered the best to travel to Russia; however, as it is the most popular time for Russia tourism, the influx of visitors creates crowds that can be a bit uncomfortable for some visitors. It is also important to remember that while summer is the most popular of seasons among travelers, the weather can be unpredictable and varies throughout this vast country, ranging from sweltering hot to cold and dreary rain, so visitors would be wise to pack for every kind of weather.

Activities have a great influence on the best time to visit Russia. The list of things to do in Russia is endless, varying from skiing to stepping out to enjoy the nightlife in Moscow, and most activities are best done during certain seasons. This is especially true if your activities revolve around the outdoors. The winter months are a great time to hit the slopes for a bit of skiing and snowboarding, such as the Black Sea resort city of Sochi, which is hosting the 2014 Winter Olympics.

Russia Map

Throughout spring, summer, and early autumn, adventurous travelers can comfortably engage in other outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and rafting. The lengthy rivers in Russia offer excellent fishing opportunities, and week-long trips to Siberia or the Russian Far East are a popular way to enjoy this activity. The Solovetsky Islands are also a beautiful destination in the summer, when the long days give visitors plenty of time to see the historic monastery and enjoy the scenery. There are also plenty of indoor activities to do even in cold weather, such as touring museums and historic palaces, which are among the loveliest in the world.

Moscow and St Petersburg are interesting cities, and there are several periods throughout the year that are particularly exciting to visit. At these times, at the beginning and end of summer and from December to March, the cities are bursting with life, and these are, without a doubt, the best times to experience Russia at its liveliest—locals have returned, and tourists are just arriving for vacation. Many events and festivals are taking place during these times of year as well, including the White Nights in St. Petersburg.

Whatever you choose to do when you visit Russia, and wherever you choose to go during your Russia trip, you’re sure to have an unforgettable visit, provided you choose the best season to suit your vacation, and while Russia is beautiful in every season, visitors should be aware that it is still one of the coldest destinations if you're visiting in the dead of winter. Once you have your travel plans made, pack for every occasion, but most important, relax and enjoy your Russian vacation.