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The 10 amazing islands in Russia are a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural intrigue. Stretching from the icy Arctic to the tranquil Pacific, these islands offer diverse landscapes—from volcanic terrains and serene lakes to remote wildlife havens and ancient settlements. Perfect for intrepid travellers and nature enthusiasts, each island holds unique stories and sights waiting to be explored. Whether you’re drawn to the dramatic cliffs of the Kurils or the serene charm of Kizhi Island, Russia’s islands promise a journey like no other, where every shore brings a fresh viewpoint on this enormous and intriguing nation!
10 Islands In Russia Worth Stopping By
Experience a new side to Russian beauty and culture with a visit to some of the best islands in Russia for all tourists:
1. Sakhalin Island
Photo: Vatslav / Wikimedia Commons
Sakhalin Island, Russia’s largest island, lies in the Far East, offering a blend of Russian and East Asian cultures. The island boasts diverse landscapes, including mountains, forests, and coastlines, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Sakhalin’s terrain is marked by volcanic formations, hot springs, and dense forests, providing ample opportunities for hiking and nature exploration. The island’s history is rich, having been influenced by Russian, Japanese, and indigenous Ainu cultures.
Nearest Airport: Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk Airport (UUS)
Nearest Seaport: Korsakov Port
Best Restaurants To Visit: In Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, Korean House offers authentic Korean cuisine, reflecting the island’s cultural ties.
Best Hotels To Stay: Mega Palace Hotel in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk provides comfortable accommodations with panoramic views.
2. Olkhon Island
Photo: Jason Rogers / Wikimedia Commons
Olkhon Island, the largest island in Lake Baikal, is renowned for its dramatic cliffs and spiritual significance. It’s a hub for shamanistic traditions and offers stunning natural beauty. Sand beaches, thick woods, and rocky steppes are some of the island’s varied scenery. Cape Burkhan, also known as Shaman Rock, is one of the most sacred places in Siberia and offers breathtaking views of the lake. Cape Khoboy, at the island’s northern tip, provides panoramic vistas and is steeped in local legends.
Nearest Airport: Irkutsk International Airport (IKT)
Nearest Seaport: No seaport; ferry services operate from Sakhyurta to Olkhon Island.
Best Restaurants To Visit: Cafe U Zina in Khuzhir serves traditional Siberian dishes.
Best Hotels To Stay: Baikal View Hotel offers modern amenities with views of Lake Baikal.
3. Kizhi Island
Photo: MatthiasKabel / Wikimedia Commons
Kizhi Island, situated in Lake Onega, is renowned for its open-air museum featuring historic wooden architecture, including the UNESCO-listed Kizhi Pogost. The island features more than 80 wooden buildings that are superb examples of traditional Russian carpentry. With its 22 domes, the Church of the Transfiguration is a magnificent example of 18th-century craftsmanship. Adjacent to it, the Church of the Intercession and a bell tower complete the Kizhi Pogost ensemble.
Nearest Airport: Petrozavodsk Airport (PES)
Nearest Seaport: Petrozavodsk Port
Best Restaurants To Visit: Local Cafés and Restaurants
Best Hotels To Stay: Petrozavodsk; Frigate Hotel offers comfortable stays near the port.
4. Russky Island
Photo: Alexxx1979 / Wikimedia Commons
Located near Vladivostok, Russky Island is known for its scenic beauty and the impressive Russky Bridge connecting it to the mainland. The island is home to Fort Russky, a 19th-century military fortification offering panoramic views. The campus of Far Eastern Federal University is open to visitors and conducts a variety of cultural activities. The island’s coastline features secluded beaches and rugged cliffs, ideal for hiking and photography.
Nearest Airport: Vladivostok International Airport (VVO)
Nearest Seaport: Vladivostok Port
Best Restaurants To Visit: Restaurant Seven Feet offers seafood with views of the bay.
Best Hotels To Stay: Hotel Equator in Vladivostok provides easy access to the island.
5. Solovetsky Islands
Photo: Alexxx1979 / Wikimedia Commons
Situated in the White Sea, the Solovetsky Islands are steeped in history, featuring ancient monasteries and serene natural landscapes. The Solovetsky Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a symbol of Russian Orthodoxy. The islands played a significant role during the Soviet era as the site of one of the first Gulag labour camps. Visitors can explore the Botanical Garden, established by monks in the 19th century, showcasing Arctic flora.
Nearest Airport: Arkhangelsk Talagi Airport (ARH)
Nearest Seaport: Kem Port
Best Restaurants To Visit: Solovki Hotel Restaurant offers local cuisine in a rustic setting.
Best Hotels To Stay: Solovki Hotel provides comfortable lodging near the monastery complex.
6. Iturup Island
Photo: Vera.vvo / Wikimedia Commons
Part of the Kuril Islands, Iturup Island is known for its unique volcanic landscapes and the striking White Cliffs composed of pumice and volcanic glass. The island features numerous hot springs, such as those in the Baransky volcano area, offering natural relaxation spots. Mount Stokap, the island’s highest peak, provides challenging hikes with rewarding views. The island’s diverse ecosystems support a variety of flora and fauna, including endemic species.
Nearest Airport: Kurilsk Airport (ITU)
Nearest Seaport: Kurilsk Port
Best Restaurants To Visit: Dining options are limited; local cafes in Kurilsk serve traditional Russian fare.
Best Hotels To Stay: Kurilsk Hotel offers basic accommodations for visitors.
7. Bolshoi Zayatsky Island
Photo: Vitold Muratov / Wikimedia Commons
Part of the Solovetsky Archipelago, Bolshoi Zayatsky Island is notable for its ancient stone labyrinths, believed to have ritualistic significance. The island houses over 30 labyrinths, whose origins and purposes remain subjects of research and speculation. These structures are thought to date back to the 2nd millennium BCE. The island’s terrain includes tundra landscapes and coastal meadows, supporting diverse bird species.
Nearest Airport: Arkhangelsk Talagi Airport (ARH)
Nearest Seaport: Kem Port
Best Restaurants To Visit: Dining is typically arranged through guided tours; options are limited.
Best Hotels To Stay: Accommodation is available on the main Solovetsky Island; Solovki Hotel is recommended.
8. Tatyshev Island
Photo: Sleeps-Darkly / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the Yenisei River near Krasnoyarsk, Tatyshev Island is a popular recreational area featuring parks, cycling paths, and sports facilities. Both residents and visitors are drawn to the island, which acts as a green haven inside the metropolis. Seasonal events, such as festivals and outdoor concerts, are regularly held here. The island’s infrastructure supports activities like rollerblading, skateboarding, and beach volleyball. The island is used for cross-country skiing and ice skating in the winter.
Nearest Airport: Krasnoyarsk International Airport (KJA)
Nearest Seaport: Not applicable; the island is river-based.
Best Restaurants To Visit: Tatyshev Park Cafe offers casual dining within the park.
Best Hotels To Stay: Hilton Garden Inn Krasnoyarsk provides comfortable accommodations nearby.
9. New Holland Island
Photo: Y~ruwiki / Wikimedia Commons
Situated in St. Petersburg, New Holland Island is a cultural and leisure hub, featuring art installations, cafes, and open spaces. Originally constructed in the 18th century for naval purposes, the island has been revitalized as a public space. The island hosts various cultural events, including exhibitions, concerts, and workshops. Architectural landmarks, such as the Bottle House, have been repurposed into creative spaces.
Nearest Airport: Pulkovo Airport (LED)
Nearest Seaport: St. Petersburg Port
Best Restaurants To Visit: Kuznya House offers contemporary cuisine in a historic setting.
Best Hotels To Stay: The Four Seasons Hotel Lion Palace provides luxury accommodations nearby.
10. Kamenny Island
Photo: GAlexandrova / Wikimedia Commons
Kamenny Island, also known as Stone Island, is a tranquil retreat nestled within the Neva River in St. Petersburg. Historically reserved for Russian nobility, the island is adorned with architectural gems like the Neoclassical Kamenny Island Palace, commissioned by Catherine the Great for her son Paul in the 1770s. The palace’s interiors, inspired by Piranesi’s Roman views, and its landscaped gardens by Jean-François Thomas de Thomon, reflect imperial grandeur.
Nearest Airport: Pulkovo Airport (LED)
Nearest Seaport: St. Petersburg Port
Best Restaurants To Visit: Kamenny Island Restaurant offers fine dining with views of the river.
Best Hotels To Stay: Hotel Kamenny Island provides boutique accommodations in a serene setting.
Discovering Russia’s islands ranges from the serene charm of Kamenny Island to the wild, untouched beauty of Wrangel and Sakhalin. Each destination offers a unique window into Russia’s diverse geography and cultural heritage. Whether you seek spiritual depth, natural wonder, or architectural splendour, these islands deliver unforgettable experiences. Book your upcoming adventures with TripXL and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.
Cover Photo: Alexxx1979 / Wikimedia Commons
