Russia: Ceļvedis, vīzas un bezmaksas naktsmītnes · 2026. g.

Tap water in Russia is not safe for drinking. Visitors should drink bottled water instead and avoid ice in beverages. Bottled water and other sealed drinks are readily available in grocery shops and dining establishments.

Foreign navigation platforms often contain outdated map data for Russian cities. Travelers use the local application Yandex Maps for urban navigation and transit routes. The service includes an interface in English.

Marshrutkas operate as shared minibuses on designated routes without fixed station schedules. Passengers flag the vehicle down from the roadside with a wave of the hand. Passengers alert the driver vocally when approaching their destination to request a stop.

Unmarked and informal taxis carry risks of robbery and extortion. Passengers arriving at major airports should use authorized transport desks or official booking channels. Entering unlicensed vehicles hailed curbside is unsafe.

Citizens of other nations are prohibited from crossing the land border between Russia and Belarus. Foreign travelers must take flights to journey directly between the nations. Refer to the visa section for specific border control regulations and documentation rules.

Russian legislation prohibits statements critical of military operations or state bodies, as well as advocacy for economic sanctions. Sharing, commenting on, or liking online publications from designated undesirable organizations carries legal penalties including fines or imprisonment. Travelers should avoid participating in political demonstrations and refrain from public political commentary.

Foreign visitors can purchase prepaid cellular service at airport kiosks, convenience stores, and mobile provider shops. State regulations require purchasers to show a passport for identity registration at the point of sale. Providers distribute connectivity through physical chips and electronic profile installations.