On Feb. 24, 2022, Russia invaded its neighbor country Ukraine, starting a war between these two countries.
This act of invasion caused many Ukrainians to flee their country and seek shelter in places like Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, etc…
At this time, we recommend no travel to Russia or Ukraine, or any neighboring countries for your own safety.
Russia : Safety by City
Russia, the world’s largest country, stretches from Eastern Europe across northern Asia.
It covers 11 time zones and diverse landscapes—from vast Siberian wilderness to vibrant urban centers.
Russia, home to approximately 143 million people, has a complex history that includes imperial rule, Soviet communism, and its ongoing evolution as a global power.
Cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg captivate visitors with landmarks such as Red Square, the Kremlin, and the Hermitage Museum, while natural wonders like Lake Baikal and the Trans-Siberian Railway allure adventurers.
However, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine has led to increased travel warnings due to security concerns, including potential harassment of foreigners and limited embassy assistance.
Is Russia too dangerous to visit?
You can decide, but all signs lean toward “Yes.”
Warnings & Dangers in Russia
OVERALL RISK: HIGH
Russia comes with a high risk for many reasons we'll discuss in this article. It's especially dangerous for U.S. citizens.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
There is a medium risk due to unreliable unofficial taxis, aggressive driving habits, and poor road conditions outside major cities. Travelers should use official taxi apps or pre-booked services, avoid hitchhiking, and consider public transport options within urban areas to minimize safety concerns.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
There is a medium to high risk because of active pickpocketing in crowded tourist sites, markets, and metro stations, especially in Moscow and St. Petersburg. Protect valuables by using hidden pouches or anti-theft bags, and always remain aware of your surroundings in busy places.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
Russia has a medium risk, but it's really dependent on the time of year you visit and where you are. The biggest concerns are occasional flooding, severe winter storms, and extreme temperatures.
MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
There is a medium risk because of street crime, particularly late at night in less populated or poorly lit urban areas. Travelers should avoid walking alone at night, stick to main streets, and refrain from carrying valuables visibly to minimize vulnerability.
TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
There is a medium risk due to historical attacks and ongoing threats, especially in regions like Moscow, St. Petersburg, and the North Caucasus. Travelers must remain alert in crowded public places and monitor local news and government warnings consistently.
SCAMS RISK: HIGH
There is a high risk because of widespread tourist scams, including inflated taxi fares, fake ticket sales, and fraudulent money exchanges. Travelers should avoid unsolicited offers, negotiate prices upfront, and only use established businesses and official providers to stay safe.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
There is a medium risk because of occasional harassment and conservative attitudes toward women traveling alone, especially outside major cities. Female travelers should consider dressing conservatively, avoiding isolated areas at night, and using reputable accommodation and transport services.
TAP WATER RISK: MEDIUM
There is a medium risk due to inconsistent water quality standards, especially in rural areas or smaller cities. Travelers should consume bottled or filtered water, avoid ice in drinks, and consider brushing their teeth with bottled water to prevent illness.
Safest Places to Visit in Russia
You can check out the visitrussia.com website, but as a tourism site, it will not include the variety of risks that we’re addressing here.
It’s worth punctuating that most governments, like the US, the UK, and Canada, discourage all travel to Russia.
That means even major attractions wouldn’t necessarily be the safest places to visit.
I’ve put together a list of some of the top tourist attractions and historical locations.
Red Square & Kremlin (Moscow)
Iconic and historical, Red Square is home to the colorful St. Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s Mausoleum, while the adjacent Kremlin showcases political power, palaces, and museums.
Bolshoi Theatre (Moscow)
World-renowned venue for opera and ballet, showcasing Russia’s rich artistic heritage, stunning performances, and exquisite architecture—essential for culture lovers.
Trans-Siberian Railway
The world’s longest railway, stretching from Moscow to Vladivostok, offers travelers an unforgettable journey through diverse landscapes, cultures, and time zones.
Lake Baikal (Siberia)
The deepest freshwater lake on earth, known for crystal-clear waters and unique biodiversity, makes it ideal for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and adventurous travelers.
Hermitage Museum (St. Petersburg)
One of the world’s greatest art museums, housed in the opulent Winter Palace buildings, contains masterpieces from Da Vinci, Rembrandt, and Michelangelo, with over three million items.
Peterhof Palace (St. Petersburg)
Often called Russia’s Versailles, Peterhof Palace is famous for lavish fountains, elaborate gardens, and ornate interiors, offering a glimpse into royal opulence.
St. Isaac’s Cathedral (St. Petersburg)
A spectacular cathedral famous for its golden dome, panoramic views from the colonnade, and stunning interiors richly decorated with mosaics and artworks.
Golden Ring Cities
Historic towns northeast of Moscow, like Suzdal and Vladimir, are known for medieval architecture, ancient monasteries, onion-domed churches, and traditional Russian charm.
Sochi & Black Sea Coast
Russia’s most famous resort city, host of the 2014 Winter Olympics, with beaches, ski resorts, and a subtropical climate attracting year-round tourism.
Catherine Palace (Tsarskoye Selo)
Located near St. Petersburg, this magnificent palace features the legendary Amber Room, exquisite Baroque architecture, and extensive landscaped gardens, highlighting Russia’s imperial past.
Places to Avoid in Russia
Traveling to Russia in any capacity is strongly discouraged by many governments.
That includes the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Singapore, and Canada.
However, if you must visit, there are even more stern warnings.
Avoid traveling to Russia’s North Caucasus region, including Chechnya, due to ongoing civil unrest and criminal activity targeting foreigners for kidnapping and ransom.
U.S. citizens, in particular, may face hostility in Chechnya.
The U.S. government prohibits its personnel from traveling there and cannot offer assistance in emergencies.
Other locations in the North Caucasus Region listed to avoid include:
- North Ossetia
- Ingushetia
- Dagestan
- Stavropol
- Karachayevo-Cherkessiya
- Kabardino-Balkariya
Similarly, avoid climbing Mt. Elbrus and traveling to Crimea, a Russian-occupied region of Ukraine, where consular support for U.S. citizens is unavailable.
I would also recommend you research etiquette in Russia.
Some issues, like wearing shoes inside and smiling at someone on the street, can be offensive.
Also, avoid going to Russia without knowing any Russian.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Russia
- Russian police, or “Politsiya,” handle law enforcement. To call for immediate assistance, dial 102 from any phone. It’s also helpful to know 112, a universal emergency number that works nationwide, connecting you quickly with police, fire, or medical services even without phone credit.
- Russia uses text message alerts and sirens for emergencies, like severe weather or disasters. Notifications may be in Russian only. A translation app or knowledge of basic Russian would be very helpful.
- You’ll need your home driver’s license, an International Driving Permit (IDP), your passport, and typically a credit card to rent a car. Police checkpoints are common, and documents are regularly checked, so carry originals—not copies—to avoid potential fines or hassles.
- Carry your ID even if you aren’t driving. Local authorities frequently perform random checks on visitors. Photocopies won’t suffice; lacking proper identification can result in fines, detention, or bureaucratic difficulties that could disrupt your travel plans significantly.
- Internet privacy is minimal due to strict government surveillance. Wi-Fi and cellular networks are monitored, and VPNs are heavily restricted or banned. Assume all communications are visible to authorities, so avoid discussing sensitive topics digitally and consider keeping a low-tech profile while traveling. Don’t post about sensitive topics while you’re there. Even pro-Ukraine messaging or LBGTQ+ support posts can land you in the police station.
- Similarly, authorities in Russia can legally inspect or search your bags without prior notice or consent, especially in transit hubs or major tourist sites. Keep bags secure and avoid carrying sensitive items or documents unnecessarily to minimize inconvenience or security issues.
- Certain common cold medicines containing pseudoephedrine or codeine are illegal narcotics in Russia. Always carry prescriptions in original packaging and have a doctor’s note clearly stating medical necessity. Declare these medications upon arrival to avoid serious legal consequences or confiscation at customs.
- When entering Russia, you’re given a migration card—keep it safe! The card is in addition to the visa. You’ll need it when checking into hotels and departing the country. Losing it means potential fines or significant delays on departure, as immigration officials require proof of legal entry and stay.
- Political tensions can swiftly limit available flights for U.S., Canadian, and U.K. travelers. If situations escalate, evacuation becomes challenging due to reduced flight routes and limited embassy support. Keep travel plans flexible, monitor diplomatic advisories closely, and have an emergency exit strategy.
- Avoid whistling indoors—Russians view it as bad luck or a sign of financial hardship. Smiling at strangers is uncommon and may be misinterpreted as insincere or suspicious behavior. Respect these cultural nuances to blend in better and avoid unwanted attention.
So... How Safe Is Russia Really?
As long as the conflict with Ukraine is happening, most governments strongly discourage their residents from visiting Russia.
On a four-tiered scale, with one being the lowest and four being the highest level, here’s how several countries rank visiting Russia.
- United States: Level 4, Do Not Travel
- United Kingdom: “FCDO advises against all travel to Russia.”
- Canada: Level 4, Avoid All Travel
- Australia: Level 4, Do Not Travel
- New Zealand: Do Not Travel
In fact, I can’t find a major country that doesn’t ask its citizens to avoid Russia.
Not only is visiting Russia potentially dangerous for U.S. citizens and those from other countries that have shown compassion towards Ukraine, but your government likely won’t be able to do anything if you get in trouble in Russia.
Anti-U.S. sentiments are common in Russia, which could lead to violence, crime, or randomly being held by authorities.
It’s also worth noting that you have very few, if any, privacy rights in Russia.
Assume any conversation by voice, video, or text is being monitored.
In addition, the Russian government considers any type of LGBTQ+ support or displays to be a form of “extremism.”
Unless you’re Russian, it’s really not safe to visit the country for the foreseeable future.
Even by following the rules, you could still be randomly detained.
How Does Russia Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Russia | 34 |
| Morocco | 54 |
| Portugal | 57 |
| Japan | 83 |
| Ghana | 73 |
| Australia | 86 |
| Slovakia | 80 |
| Greece | 73 |
| Norway | 85 |
Useful Information
Visas
Traveling to Russia requires a visa for most nationalities, and the process isn’t quick. Apply well in advance through the Russian consulate or a visa service. You’ll need an invitation letter, travel details, and patience. Double-check entry rules, especially for electronic visas, which are available to citizens of select countries.
Currency
The ruble (RUB) is the local currency, and cash still matters in many places. Bring some physical currency for smaller towns or transit. Don’t rely solely on cards—especially American ones. Get cash inside a bank, not at an ATM.
Weather
Russia’s climate changes drastically by region and season. Winters can be punishing, especially in Siberia, while summers in cities like Moscow are warm and surprisingly green. Pack layers, and don’t underestimate the cold—even spring can feel wintry. Weather apps help, but locals still swear by instinct and a good coat.
Airports
Major hubs like Moscow’s Sheremetyevo (SVO) and St. Petersburg’s Pulkovo (LED) are well-connected internationally. Expect thorough security and signage that leans on Cyrillic. Domestic flights cover huge distances, so flying is often faster than trains. Some budget carriers operate within Russia, but baggage policies can be stricter than you’d expect.
Travel Insurance
It’s not optional—proof of travel insurance is a visa requirement. Make sure your plan includes medical coverage, including COVID-related care. Russian hospitals may require upfront payment if you're uninsured. Check for policies that include emergency evacuation, too.
Russia Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C | -4 | -2 | 4 | 11 | 19 | 22 | 24 | 22 | 16 | 8 | 1 | -2 |
| Low °C | -10 | -9 | -4 | 2 | 8 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 8 | 2 | -3 | -7 |
| High °F | 25 | 28 | 39 | 52 | 66 | 72 | 75 | 72 | 61 | 46 | 34 | 28 |
| Low °F | 14 | 16 | 25 | 36 | 46 | 54 | 57 | 55 | 46 | 36 | 27 | 19 |
Russia - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Kazan | 66 |
| Moscow | 51 |
| Nizhny Novgorod | 71 |
| Novosibirsk | 76 |
| Saint Petersburg | 56 |
| Sochi | 66 |
| Yekaterinburg | 72 |
Take out the warnings for North Caucasus area and Russia is about as safe as anywhere. Sure, pickpocketers can be a problem, but common sense will thwart them. I have been in Russia every year since 1991.
Risk of detention
Unless the govt decides to randomly single you out for incarceration. Not everyone detained has clear cut crimes. Plus, lets not add any cash to their economy just yet.
I visited Moscow twice and St Petersburg once. Both are must visit cities. Can be tough for English speakers as most signs are in cyrillic, and i found that not many Russians speak English. The vibe in Moscow is a bit colder with people, but nevertheless still friendly. I did find the atmosphere and people in St Petersburg to be much more open and friendlier.
Be aware of pickpockets as I’ve unfortunately experienced it. While it happened, i have no ills against it.
Highly recommend it. I’ll be visiting again!
seems a complicated country, size can play a part in crime. Although “Gopniks” all over is not a result of mass pickpocketting. It originating in the late Soviet Period as Many high rise buildings were built in cities to accomdate the people migrating there from the country.
This meant that the price was cheap attracting “Gopniks and Gopnistas ( Female gopniks- For more information see Life of Boris “What is a Gopnik.” video)
It is what is called slavic ‘culture’ with slav squatting and addidas tracksuits. But for more accurate watch that video
Not safe for gays
If I were gay, I absolutely wouldn’t visit there, it’s on par with places like Somalia and Saudi Arabia for violence against LGBT people.
Wrong. Only appears in Muslim areas like North Caucuses. Do you honestly think someone will assault, kill or rape you because of your hair color or LGBT badge on your shirt in Moscow, St.Petersburg, or Kazan like they do in the countries you mentioned? If you think so, then either you are homophobic yourself or just a not-in-line with the rest of society.
Moscow has gay clubs unmaked that go along an area. No one cares . It’s just a Country of respect for anyone. Really no one wants to see it, or hear it in your voice.
No, im sorry, you are very wrong. Russian government is very openly antigay. Definitely not safe for gays, especially as far as russian police. Promise. Maybe look at the “names” who is providing the information and see who would actually know what it like in Russia. Like “Alexander” and “Jenia” 😉
Update once again.
Russia is really in fact, safe, it’s crime rate isn’t that bad, compared to countries like Honduras or El Salvador. Of course, there is a widespread alcohol problem, but just try to avoid going to bars. The terror problem isn’t that bad, you won’t hear about a terrorist attack in a Russian city so often, however, there is a terror threat on the border of Ukraine and the Caucasus Region.
You sir, are a donut
Are you absolutely brain dead? You cannot compare a country such as Honduras to Russia. Obviously, Russia is safer. That’s why Russia is in yellow, not red. Come on man use your brain a bit. This review is 1000% accurate. You basically summarized everything that was said. But seriously, stop comparing two IMMENSELY different countries when it comes to crime. Compare Russia to the United States next time.
Pretty safe
Completely weird a pretty safe country like Russia shows a safety index of 34. Its safety was even repeated countinously in the description, so it should be definitely changed to at least the 70’s (on par to Chile, which is a much more dangerous country). Bad standards!
Only safe for caucasians
Non caucasians, stay in your hotel rooms.
Can’t agree. Half of the country are Turkic or Asian. 200+ nationalities living there permanently, also lots of foreign students.
Maybe kids in smaller towns or villages will be surprised if you’re Black. So it’s best to avoid visiting kindergartens.
Agreed. Been to Moscow twice recently with my wife who is Asian. Enjoyed nightlife in Moscow (bars/restaurants) and travelled the Metro late at night. Not a single issue. Everyone was lovely and helpful, even with the language barrier. Feels so much safer than London or New York for example which we have also visited.
Overall Russia is a very safe place for tourists.
I don’t understand the score of 34. It’s too low for Russia.
Colder than vertical says!!!
And I promise, the temperatures the article offers are a bit warm. Moscow may be in the teens Fahrenheit, but outside that city, we see zero, 4-5 below anytime in December!! Sometimes the entire month!!
Life in Russia has been fine for me. Since 1991, the “mafia” ended about when President Putin came to power. Since then, in our faraway city of 110,000 people, I have witnessed so much Hope and Change, I thought President Obama was in power. Churches, schools, hospitals, etc. and typical transportation infrastructure (sidewalks to airports) have been improved thru rebuilding and new construction. Walking nights never seemed unwise. From Moscow to Barnaul and many cities and villages in between, and likewise- places from St Petersburg to Vologda to Ulyanovsk; all safe and walked late at night. (no guns)
Sure, keep your senses, don’t try to keep up with a Russian drinking… you won’t. You shouldn’t, as that can be a ruse for taking advantage of you.
Russian flattering
Putin can only turn cities in ruin with one metric ton and cluster bombs.
Russia is great
I must say that from Moscow, east to Barnaul, and from Vologda to south of Moscow, Ulyavovsk and around that entire area (Kirov, Izhevsk, Kazan, etc) life is simple and easy, just don’t be “American”. Be reserved, polite, low key, quiet, and as invisible as possible and you won’t have any problems. I am an American, I have traveled this area, scouted food and drink late nights, and never have been bothered. If you wish to visit Russia, by all means, do so. Expect differences and accept those differences as life. Russia is calm, safe and a nice, peaceful place to live.
Amazing place to visit.
I have been there 4 times and love the Moscow area and surrounding towns, always felt very safe and only ran into one drunk who didn’t like me because I was obviously English speaking. But like you said, just be low key and move on. I will gladly go again when this current BS lockdown is over.
Nonsense
Such ignorance that it doesnt warrant a lengthy sensible response, You cant have been there. I spoke to plenty of people of color in Moscow who go about their trip or their daily lives without harassment and enjoy their stay.
Russians are not human
You are aggressors and terminators and shed so much blood in you neighbouring countries, latest in the list is ukraine, turning their cities in ruins and killing their kids and pregnant women, starving the poorest countries of the whole world people by blocking ukraine grain export and let them to die from hunger. You are savage and you country safety index must be a big zero.
Great Country to visit
I’m a Brit who has lived in Russia for many years. Good review. The Caucuses are in fact the most interesting place to visit and very safe so long as you respect the local (mostly Islamic) religion. Walking around at night (although I wouldn’t recommend anywhere in the world) is much safer in Russia than most other countries. Highly recommend visiting. Visa is the bigest barrier – but some good news – Some places you don’t need a visa – like if you arrive by cruise ships to St Pete and Sochi (check out the rules). Russia is trying to introduce really easy e-visas (apply online and show print-out), which “after COVID” should make life easy for citizens of EU and many other countries (Not UK & USA though, due to reciprocal “unfriendly” visa regimes with absurd rules for Russians)
i love Russia, i love to visit, beautiful people and kind faces! one of the biggest country in the world for a reason.
Don't visit it at this time (wait for better days)
Right now this is a 1 star and very unsafe. It usually is a 3 star location. Russia has some beautiful cities and landmarks that should be visited but right now, I wouldn’t recommend going there. Ever since they started the attack on Ukraine neither Ukraine nor Russia is safe. This crazy war that has started will soon lead to all sorts of problems in Russia so keep your distance for the time being. Once this is over, hopefully soon, you can give it a try.
And yes, there is a certain terrorism risk in Russia at any given time, especially now. I know of someone that has been mugged in Sankt Petersburg. It was night but he wasn’t on an unlit alley or something. I was also surprised to see how many pickpockets there are in the major cities. I wasn’t expecting to see so many. And yes, I can confirm that in some cases, children are the ones that will try to steal from you. It sounds insane but it’s the truth.
I will outline a few interesting places that can be visited. For example, Lake Baikal. This lake holds around 20% of the world’s fresh water!!! Just imagine how big it is?! When it’s not frozen, you can do some kayaking or go on boat cruises.
St. Petersburg should also be on your list – this city is a mix of history and art and beautiful design. Visit the St. Isaac’s Cathedral or the Hermitage Museum is the 2nd biggest culture museum on the globe. And they’re both worth a visit. There’s also Peterhof Palace which is close to St. Petersburg. This place looks like the Palace of Versailles from France.
Another interesting place is Vladivostok which has the longest cable-stayed bridge on earth with a length of 1885 meters. The city is worth exploring, having a beautiful military museum and there’s also a fortress that’s now became a museum as well.
Again, there’s a lot to see but don’t go now. Wait until things settle down.
3 years living in provincial areas and Moscow
34…? This is grossly inaccurate. Morocco is 54 and Russia a 34? I have experience in both countries and attest you are misled. Sounds like you wrote this based on the 90s. Even now in the middle of the war, despite frequent travel, Moscow poses minimal risks. pickpocketers, terrorist acts, or scams are a genuine rarity. Racist violence I have not yet been exposed to. Police and legal system serviceable.
Who rated Russia that low?
I’m not sure why rating is lower than some African countries, but I can assure you 34 is way too low. Russia is a police country and the law enforcement system is actually working comparing some countries we have traveled to and by some reason rated on this site higher. It might be politics involved or some people personal experience not sure, but we never had a single issue in Russia. Petty crime is common unfortunately, just put your grey shirt with spotty armpits along with beat up keds and blend in or not lol, Russians tend to dress nicely, mostly. We learned Russian and Cyrillic alphabet so it might helped a bit, but nowadays a lot of Russians speak English fluently and we had no issue communicating. Of course you have to be vigilant like anywhere even crime infested Brighton and Hove eg and people around you are not your friends, but overall very positive experience. Don’t bring forbidden substances and don’t express your political point of view and enjoy your trip.
Cities v. Moscow, Barnaul, St. Pitersburg, Voronezh, Kazan.
Completely unsafe
Since russia invaded Ukraine, it’s not safe anymore. You can be easily beaten or brought to the jail just because of your anti-military position. Kidnapping is very popular in Caucasian area, while other areas are not safe tho. There’s also a possibility of being assaulted because of your sexual orientation or political opinion. Women are often treated cruelly and impolite. Russia is completely unsafe for both travelling and living.
still safe for Anglo-Saxons after a year of genocidal war
I visited in late 2022 , and kept a low profile – had no problems . Russian makes are often very sexist , ometimes mysoginistic and brusque but also ” chivalrous” in this ultra-conservative society
Russia is safe
Sorry to say but this is absolutely not true, I live in Russia as a foreigner, and have never experienced any of this, not even in the past year.
Slava Ukraini
Russia is not unsafe …… as long as you avoid the macho violent young men , and you do not engage in very heavy drinking / drugs . There is a very small chance that you could be detained randomly on a trumped up charge , as a hostage for future spy swaps . And some likelihood that you will be interviewed by the FSB either on entry or deparrture about the purpose of your visit or your profession/ security/army background .
Don't go to Russia
Their president is the worst, more than 200k+ as of this writing are dead because of the war he started, this country should be stopped.
Putin – your crimes against humanity will not go unpunished. Your day will come for all the destruction you’ve caused.
Sh** results
Totally safe country. If you leave bad rate you hadn’t been there. Cold country… And me in June having sun baths in +50C in Rostov-on-Don (not even the southest city in Russia)
Simply not true
You lie, as temperature in rostov never ever reaches 50C.
Thank you as you swear for vladimir putin. I totally hate him just as joseph stalin
Russia is relatively safe for people with common sense. Just like in any other countries: Just don’t be a moron, don’t be a d🍆k.
Don’t run into trouble. Avoid unsafe situations/places.
Act orderly.
Be polite. Don’t provoke people.
Carry your money and valuables in a theft-safe bag (that’s a must for any trip, and even in your home country)
Beware of scammers (inform yourself about common scams on the streets to know who/what you should avoid).
Alcohilic russions
People giving 5 stars have not been to russia and are part of russian propaganda machine. As a sailor I have traveled to some russian port cities and we were attacked by knife and forced to give up our cash. Even the western african countries ports are safer than russia. Most of russians we have seen are alcoholic and have a their mood is highly variable as they get very aggressive sometimes. Alcohol is their weak point and they can resist drinking as much alcohol as they can.
you can’t even spell alcoholic or russians, and your experiences are not related to tourism. What tourist is going to ports to argue with sailors? Such a stupid comment..