While the origin of vodka is highly disputed between Russia and Poland, there’s certainly no nation more known for their vodka consumption than Russia. In fact, the word vodka comes from ‘voda’ which in Russian means water. Over the centuries it’s been known to cure ailments and is loaded with superstition and tradition.

Set deep in Siberia, Lake Baikal holds the title for the world’s oldest and deepest freshwater lake in the world. Not only is Lake Baikal visually stunning with its crystal clear waters and gorgeous forest surroundings, but it’s also scientifically impressive. Because of its unique location and depth, Lake Baikal is full of incredible biodiversity, including 2,500 plant and animal species. Two-thirds of which aren’t found anywhere else in the world.

The Red Square is easily the most iconic national symbol of Russia and has been the stage of countless prominent events in Russian history. Set in the heart of Moscow, the Red Square is framed by the mighty Kremlin and holds the Gum, Lenin’s mausoleum and the State Historical Museum. However, the most impressive sight is St. Basil’s Cathedral with its colourful onion domes and rich history.

Matryoshka dolls, otherwise known as Russian nesting dolls are one of Russia’s most iconic toys and vintage symbols. These stackable and nestable dolls resemble a vibrant babushka, or traditional Russian grandmother. The very first matryoshka doll came about thanks to Sergey Malyutin in the late 1800s. Just a decade or so later, the doll won the prestigious bronze medal at Paris’ World Fair.

Boasting over three million artefacts ranging from oriental treasures to prized fine paintings, The Hermitage is one of the world’s most prestigious museums. The Hermitage’s collection is so extensive in fact, that if you viewed each exhibit on display for just one minute at a time, you’d need eleven straight days. Thanks to its notable status, The Hermitage is not just a symbol of St Petersberg but Russia as a whole.

Moscow’s metro system is celebrated as one of the world’s most fascinating and beautiful. Not only is it full of elaborate design, it’s also one of the world’s largest metro systems complete with 229 stations and 14 lines. Inside you’ll find a plethora of soviet-era architecture showcasing countless Soviet artists, icons and so much more. The metro is so famous for its beauty that 44 of the stations double as cultural heritage sites.

One of the popular tourist routes in Russia got a name the Golden Ring of Russia. This is a circle of cities belonging to five Oblasts, often excluding Moscow. The Golden Ring includes the following cities: Sergiev Posad, Pereslavl-Zalessky, Rostov Veliky, Yaroslavl, Kostroma, Ivanovo, Suzdal, Vladimir and several small towns. All of these cities represent the unique Russian architecture from the 12th to the 18th century, featuring the recognizable onion domes of the Russian Orthodox Church. These picturesque medieval cities remained mostly untouched, preserving the authentic atmosphere of Russian history that will leave you in awe. You can visit the Golden Ring by yourself since the ride between the cities is about an hour or so, but you can also book one of the numerous organized tours.

Winters marked a huge part of Russian history, but don’t be afraid of experiencing the Russian winter. Although it gets cold, the cities and landscapes turn into a fairytale-like place that will warm your heart within seconds! Just imagine the winter holidays in the homeland of Nutcracker! Therefore, booking a performance in one of the magnificent Russian theatres might be the ultimate thing to do in winter. Christmas markets are a true fantasy all over Russia, but especially in Moscow and St. Petersburg.

Russia in winter is far from dull, there are so many activities you can try. Ice skating is available in most cities and other winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding are on offer in numerous resorts. However, Russians do not hibernate during the winter. The events schedule is rich and most of life is happening indoors.

Relish upon the scenic views of the expansive sheets of snow while passing along ridges as well as steep slopes. Enjoy an activity of skiing and get ready to feel the rush of adrenaline.

The city of Yekaterinburg is home to an abandoned salt mine, inner walls of which provide the visitors with various dramatic geographical designs, which are not only beautiful but a bit scary as well.

One of the biggest skating rinks in the country, this place is always loaded with tourists. As soon as the rink freezes, you can easily show off your skills of skating on ice.

Cover an area of 3.6 KM while riding a gondola and enjoy a scenic ride for 10 to 15 minutes. The thrill of riding a cable car and enjoying the serenity from such a height is truly worth a try.