A dream trip to Russia should begin with research. Start as far as advance as possible and read everything you can find online and in print about different places to visit in Russia, as well as Russian culture and history.
Visitors that enjoy the outdoors should explore Siberia and Russia's far east, whereas culture and architecture buffs should stay in European Russia with mandatory stops in St. Petersburg and Moscow (reference 1).
As a general rule, because of the sheer size of Russia, it's recommended to focus your trip around a specific area. If you're dead set on exploring far-flung areas in Russia, expect to spend a lot of cash on air travel, or a lot of time traversing the countryside.
When you've gotten a feel for Russia, and what parts of the country interest you, start thinking about how much time and money you have to spend. This will make a big difference in how much of Russia you can explore.
Don't forget to keep the weather in mind when making your plans. If you're up for the cold and ice, Lonely Planet recommends visiting Russia during the Winter months when snow blankets cities and countryside alike, but warns that in some rural areas summer months are peak periods for disease carrying bugs and insects (reference 5)
When you've decided on a time-span and a budget, as well as your preferred destinations in Russia , it's time to start researching package deals, airfare, and accommodations.
Less experienced travelers should consider package deals that include guides but all travelers must plan far enough in advance to obtain a visa.
Visas are required for all travelers to Russia and are obtained through invitation, application, registration process wherein you have to get an invitation (from a hotel or travel agency). Apply for your visa at a Russian embassy in your home country, and then register it in every place you stay in Russia (reference 4).
Once you've booked your flights and accommodations, and obtained your visa, further research the areas of Russia you plan to visit, and be sure to take notes on local traditions, interesting attractions and events to experience.
Learn some basic Russian so that you can say please, thank-you, and where's the bathroom, if nothing else. It is also advisable to acquire a Russian dictionary and phrasebook and learn some Russian words written in Cyrillic letters. Having a basic knowledge of Russian will make your trip easier and more enjoyable (reference 4).
Make sure to bring copies of your passport, visa, credit cards and important documents. Keep them separate from the originals in case you lose them.
Travel with crisp clean, never wrinkled cash in American Dollars or Euros and credit cards, which are widely accepted throughout Europe (fact check, reference 6). While Traveler's checks can be exchanged for cash in Russia, they aren't very convenient, and many places will charge a commission.
Check on the weather forecast in the parts of Russia you plan to visit. Pack accordingly. Wear comfortable clothing and appropriate shoes, especially if you plan on hiking.
If you plan on spending time in remote areas outside of major urban centers like Moscow and St. Petersburg, pack extras of toiletries, first aid supplies and any prescription medication.
Upon your arrival in Russia, fill out an immigration card and give half of the form to passport control. Keep the rest of the form in a safe place with you until you leave Russia. You'll need it to register your visa and to exit Russia.
When you arrive in Russia, you have three days to register your visa. You should be able to register it through your hotel, or pay a travel agency to do so for you.
Every time you move from one town to another and stay for more than three days, you will have to re-register (reference 4).
When registering, you'll receive a piece of paper documenting the dates you're staying. You may need to show it to police officers inquiring about your registration, so keep it safe. Be vigilant about your registration to avoid being fined by local police ( reference 4).
Try to stay within the budget you've set for yourself and spend your roubles carefully. Save money by buying groceries and making sandwiches a few days. Supermarkets full of Russian products and produce are an interesting way to explore Russian culture.
Always have a stash of the local currency set aside for emergencies or unfortunate fines from local police.
Keep an open mind and a camera handy. Enjoy the food, the culture, the sites and the people and splurge on something Russian you've always thought of as quintessential, whether it be caviar, tickets to the Bolshoi Ballet and Opera in Moscow, or a trip on the Trans-Siberian Railroad.
