10 Best Places to Visit in Russia – Breath-taking sights

Kamchatka is a massive volcanic peninsula where dramatic and rugged sights create a mesmerizing picture worth exploring. The region is covered in fertile and rich forest, snow-capped volcanic mountains and wild animals roam this beautiful landscape. To top it all, there are hot springs scattered around the area. It will not be easy to get there though. You may have to browse through some of the best holiday deals to Russia before you stumble upon one that offers to take you to Kamchatka. You may have to ask a travel agent such as Macktrip.com to

Karelia is hailed as one of the most beautiful places in Russia. Trees grow on gargantuan rocks and bountiful lakes and waterfalls add to the region's beauty. The region borders Finland unsurprisingly the landscape looks more Finnish than Russian.

Velikiy Novgorod is essentially historically important region in Russia. The city is sometimes referred to as the 'birth place of Russia' as it was the unification of Novgorod with Moscow that took place in the 15th century that became an integral step in forming a unified Russia. You can admire specimens of wooden architecture at the museum of Vitoslavlitsi.

Cathedrals and Mosques scattered around Kazan testify to the city's shared past between Russian and Tartar cultures. You can sample some of the dishes such as chuk-chuk, a honeyed pastry dish to get a true taste of the blend of the two cultures.

Nestled along the southern bank of the Yenisei River, Stolby Nature Reserve is known for its curiously curved stone pillars. The rocks were formed more than 600 million years ago when molten magma pierced the surface. If you are interested in learning more about local flora and fauna, you can sign up for a guided tour of the reserve.

The deepest lake in the world hides many mysteries beneath its waters. Tales about the Baikal monster are just as fascinating as the ones about the more famous Loch Ness monster. There are numerous hiking paths that lead to Lake Baikal and in summer you can swim in its waters. But the water tends to be cold even in August.

Yessentuki is a historic resort town. Travellers have been frequenting its mineral and hot springs since the 19th century. About 17 of the mineral springs are said to offer medical benefits, especially for problems in the digestive tract.

The mountains are known as the 'golden mountains' (from the Mongolian term 'Altan' for gold). Seeped in myths and legends, the strikingly beautiful mountains are rich in biodiversity. Nature seems to have favoured this particular region with all its alluring beauty from snow forests, inimitable vistas of the steppes, and snow-capped peaks to the charm of deserts. You can go for hikes along the terrain, go rafting in the rivers or simply sink into a blissful state in a sauna made out of a cedar barrel.

Kaliningrad is a dining and a shopping destination in Russia with a German heritage. The Fishing Village in Kaliningrad was recreated in the medieval style to attract tourists, but it is pretty much a laudable attempt. The flea market in the area is worth a visit.

St Petersburg is a seemingly magical city with its exquisite architecture and literary references. The Church of the Saviour on Spilled Blood and the Winter Palace possibly stand out from the rest of the architecture thanks to the sheer magnificence of the décor and design.