Top 10 Places To Visit In Russia In January: Winter Wonders & Snowy Escapades

Explore places to visit in Russia in January featuring snow-covered landscapes

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Russia in January, get ready for a breathtaking winter adventure. Russia in January turns into a mesmerizing winter wonderland, offering snow-covered terrain, festive lights, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re drawn to historic cities, frozen lakes, or Arctic adventures, there are countless places to visit in Russia that showcase the country’s beauty in the coldest month. Here are the top 10 tourist attractions in Russia in January for an unforgettable winter getaway.

Top 10 Places To Visit In Russia In January

Discover winter wonder with these top places to visit in Russia in January, from vibrant cities to stunning landscapes.

1. Moscow

Russia's capital city with iconic landmarks, culture, and history

Photo: Дмитрий Трепольский / Pexels

Moscow, the capital of Russia, is a must-visit destination in winter, offering a mix of history, culture, and festive charm. Among the places to visit in Russia in January, Red Square transforms into a magical wonderland. The Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and the Bolshoi Theatre captivate visitors with their rich heritage. Ice skating in Gorky Park, exploring the Pushkin Museum, and enjoying warm Russian cuisine at cozy cafés make Moscow a perfect winter getaway.

Central Airport: Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO)
Central Railway Station: Moscow Leningradsky Station
Ideal Trip Duration: 4 – 5 days
Where To Stay: City center hotels near Red Square or Arbat Street

2. St. Petersburg

Historic Russian city known for stunning architecture and cultural heritage

Photo: Florstein / Wikimedia Commons

St. Petersburg, Russia’s “Northern Capital,” is famous for its stunning architecture, frozen canals, and imperial history. One of the top places to visit in Russia in January, the Winter Palace and Hermitage Museum offer breathtaking sights and cultural treasures. Stroll along Nevsky Prospekt, admire the frozen Neva River, and visit the grand St. Isaac’s Cathedral. The city’s white nights give way to beautiful winter scenes, making it an enchanting destination for history lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Central Airport: Pulkovo Airport (LED)
Central Railway Station: Moskovsky Railway Station
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 days
Where To Stay: Accommodations near Nevsky Prospekt or the Hermitage Museum

3. Sochi

Most Popular Places to Visit in Russia in January is Black Sea resort city known for beaches and skiing

Photo: Trace / Wikimedia Commons

Known as the “Russian Riviera,” Sochi is a popular resort city on the Black Sea coast. January offers visitors a combination of mild temperatures and snow-covered mountains. Skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts will love the Rosa Khutor Ski Resort, one of the region’s best. The nearby thermal spas are a perfect way to unwind after an adventurous day. Sochi’s pleasant climate contrasts with much of Russia’s colder regions, making it an ideal destination for both winter sports and relaxation for those looking for places to visit in Russia in January.

Central Airport: Sochi International Airport (AER)
Central Railway Station: Sochi Railway Station
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 5 days
Where To Stay: Beachfront resorts or hotels in the city center

4. Vladivostok

one of the best Places to Visit in Russia in January is Eastern Russian port city with scenic landscapes and vibrant culture

Photo: Vyacheslav Bukharov / Wikimedia Commons

Located on the Pacific Ocean, Vladivostok is an intriguing port city that serves as the terminus of the Trans-Siberian Railway. In January, the city is blanketed in snow, offering a beautiful winter setting. Visitors can explore the Russky Bridge, one of the longest cable-stayed bridges in the world, and the Vladivostok Fortress, a historical military complex. The Primorsky Oceanarium provides a glimpse into the marine life of the region. Vladivostok’s mix of history and modernity makes it one of the best places to visit in Russia in January.

Central Airport: Vladivostok International Airport (VVO)
Central Railway Station: Vladivostok Railway Station
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Where To Stay: Hotels near the city center or along the waterfront

5. Kazan

Tatarstan’s capital, known for its stunning mosques and historical sites

Photo: Vyacheslav Buharov / Wikimedia Commons

Kazan, a city where East meets West, is a cultural gem with a distinct blend of Islamic and Christian heritage. Among the places to visit in Russia in January, the snow-covered Kazan Kremlin, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a highlight. Visit the stunning Kul Sharif Mosque, admire the Annunciation Cathedral, and explore the city’s streets. Winter festivals and local Tatar cuisine, including delicious chak-chak and echpochmak, make Kazan a wonderful winter destination.

Central Airport: Kazan International Airport (KZN)
Central Railway Station: Kazan-Passazhirskaya Railway Station
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Where To Stay: Accommodations near the Kazan Kremlin or Bauman Street

6. Yekaterinburg

Yekaterinburg is one of the most famous Places to Visit in Russia in January for its history, culture, and modern architecture

Photo: Vyacheslav Bukharov / Wikimedia Commons

Yekaterinburg, known for its historical significance, is one of the places to visit in Russia in January for those interested in Russian history and architecture. The city’s iconic Church on the Blood, built on the site where the Romanov family was executed, is a must-visit. Enjoy panoramic views from the Vysotsky Tower, explore the Ural Geological Museum, and experience the winter beauty of the Ural Mountains nearby. Snow-covered streets and a lively arts scene make it a fascinating winter stop.

Central Airport: Koltsovo International Airport (SVX)
Central Railway Station: Yekaterinburg-Passazhirsky Railway Station
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Where To Stay: City center hotels near Plotinka or Vaynera Street

7. Pskov

Ancient Russian city offering medieval fortresses and scenic landscapes

Photo: XPEH13 / Wikimedia Commons

Pskov, one of Russia’s oldest cities, offers a glimpse into medieval Russia with its historic Kremlin and ancient churches. As one of the top places to visit in Russia in January, the Pskov Kremlin, with its stunning Trinity Cathedral, looks enchanting under a blanket of snow. Visit the Mirozhsky Monastery to see beautiful frescoes, take a winter walk along the Velikaya River, and explore the city’s centuries-old fortifications. Pskov’s quiet charm makes it perfect for history enthusiasts.

Central Airport: Pskov Airport (PKV)
Central Railway Station: Pskov Railway Station
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Where To Stay: Hotels near the Pskov Kremlin or the city center

8. Krasnodar

Southern Russian city known for vibrant culture, agriculture, and parks

Photo: Андрей Бобровский / Wikimedia Commons

Krasnodar, often referred to as “Little Paris,” boasts Tsarist-era architecture, vibrant streets, and a thriving cultural scene. As one of the places to visit in Russia in January, it offers a milder winter climate compared to other Russian cities. Stroll through Catherine Square, visit the iconic Krasnodar Regional Art Museum, and enjoy the festive decorations in Gorky Park. The city’s lively cafés and markets make it a great winter retreat without the extreme cold.

Central Airport: Krasnodar International Airport (KRR)
Central Railway Station: Krasnodar-1 Railway Station
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Where To Stay: Accommodations in the city center or near Krasnaya Street

9. Vladimir

Historic city known for its ancient churches and Russian history

Photo: Oleg Bkhambri (Voltmetro) / Wikimedia Commons

Vladimir, one of Russia’s Golden Ring cities, is filled with historical monuments and charming winter settings. As one of the places to visit in Russia in January, the city’s Golden Gates and Assumption Cathedral offer a glimpse into Russia’s medieval past. Wander through the snow-covered streets, visit the Cathedral of St. Demetrius, and experience traditional Russian winter activities. With its fairytale-like setting, Vladimir is perfect for those looking to explore Russia’s history.

Central Railway Station: Vladimir Railway Station
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Where To Stay: Hotels near the Golden Gate or city center

10. Novosibirsk

Russia's third-largest city, renowned for science, culture, and innovation

Photo: Novosibirsk travel on Al-Ashraf / Wikimedia Commons

Novosibirsk, the largest city in Siberia, offers a mix of cultural attractions and snowy terrain. Among the places to visit in Russia in January, the city’s Opera and Ballet Theatre stands out as a major highlight. Enjoy winter sports at nearby Altai Mountains, visit the Novosibirsk Zoo, and explore the Museum of Railway Technology. The icy Ob River and charming city parks provide a true Siberian winter experience, making Novosibirsk an exciting destination for adventure seekers.

Central Airport: Tolmachevo Airport (OVB)
Central Railway Station: Novosibirsk-Glavny Railway Station
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Where To Stay: City center accommodations near Lenin Square or the Opera and Ballet Theatre

January is the perfect time to experience Russia’s enchanting winter terrain, lively festivals, and cultural heritage. With so many places to visit in Russia in January, travelers can enjoy everything from historic landmarks to breathtaking natural wonders. Whether you’re ice skating in Moscow or exploring the Golden Ring’s snow-covered towns, each location offers an unforgettable experience. Plan your journey now with TripXL and make an unforgettable Russian winter adventure.

Cover Photo: Mike / Pexels

Frequently Asked Questions

Temperatures can range from -10°C to -40°C depending on the region.
Travel by train is a popular and scenic way to get around Russia in winter, especially along the Trans-Siberian Railway.
Yes, places like Sochi and several resorts in Siberia offer thermal spas for winter relaxation.
Warm clothing, including a thermal jacket, boots, gloves, and a hat, is essential for a winter trip to Russia.
Must-see landmarks include Red Square, Novodevichy Convent, and the Kizhi Island open-air museum.

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