Russia - Useful information for your trip

Russia is a transcontinental country stretching across Europe and Asia. It is the largest country in the world and borders with the highest numbers of other countries. Moreover, it is lapped by many different seas. To its west there is the Baltic Sea, to the north the Arctic Sea Ice, to the East the Pacific Ocean and to the south the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea.

Despite its large extension, Russia has a quite homogeneous territory. Indeed, it is mainly characterized by wide plains and in the eastern part by mountains. What changes according to its latitude are the weather conditions and the features of the landscape. The northern coasts are characterized by polar climate and covered by tundra; the northern zones of the inland boast a cold temperate climate and are covered by taiga, while the innermost parts feature a continental climate and are dominated by steppes. Finally, the short coastline facing the Black Sea has a humid sub-tropical climate.

Tundra is characterized by very long and cold winters, its flora and fauna are poor. Mosses and lichens are the most common species; while the typical animals are the polar bears, musk oxes and reindeers. Taiga is the most extended landscape in Russia. Here, the temperature is a little bit gentler if compared to the tundra, it allows the growth of bigger trees, such as larches, spruce firs, pines, birches and poplars. But wildlife is still poor, the main species being wolves, lynxes and Siberian tigers. Steppes are the the most cultivable lands. 

In order to safeguard and preserve its biodiversity, Russia established several national parks and protected areas. Losinij Ostrov National Park and Soči National Park are the oldest. The first one features an ondulated plain cutted by the rivers Jauza and Pekhorka and provides breath-taking views. The second is richer in animal and vegetable species.

Beyond the natural beauties, it is not possible to leave Russia without visiting its big cities rich in artistical and cultural attractions and several important architectonic works. Moscow, the capital city, is surely the most chaotic but also the most fascinating city of the nation. Unmissable are its symbols, such as the Red Square, where the majestic Lenin's Mausoleum is set. It is also located near the Kremlin, symbol of the local political and religious power, inside which a real village was built. But also the beautiful cathedrals, such as the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour and the Cathedral of Saint Basil, are worth visiting. Finally, for those who love shopping, there are also large boulevards studded by local boutiques but also hip shops.

Russia provides several comfortable and convenient ways to move from one city to another in order to discover all its wonders.