Russia

Travel tips for Russia: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Cards work almost everywhere. Russia is virtually cashless, but foreign cards are completely blocked by sanctions. Visitors must bring pristine USD or EUR cash to exchange, then open a local Russian bank card (like T-Bank) upon arrival to use ride apps, transit, and tap-to-pay.

Try the food

Borscht (Борщ): A hearty, vibrant red beetroot soup typically served with a dollop of sour cream and fresh dill.
Pelmeni (Пельмени): Small, savory meat-filled dumplings boiled and served with butter, vinegar, or sour cream.
Blini (Блины): Thin, crepe-like pancakes often rolled with sweet or savory fillings such as caviar, smoked salmon, or jam.

Say it in Russian

Hello: Здравствуйте (Zdravstvuyte)
Thank you: Спасибо (Spasibo)
Please: Пожалуйста (Pozhaluysta)
Excuse me: Извините (Izvinite)
How much is this?: Сколько это стоит? (Skol'ko eto stoit?)
The bill please: Счет, пожалуйста (Schet, pozhaluysta)
Yes / No: Да / Нет (Da / Net)
Goodbye: До свидания (Do svidaniya)

Essentials

Voltage: 230V, 50Hz
Driving: Right side
SIM tip: Purchase a local physical SIM card from major providers like MTS, Megafon, or Beeline at official stores upon arrival, as foreign eSIMs and payment cards may face severe connectivity issues due to international sanctions.

Etiquette

Tipping around 10% in restaurants is standard and appreciated, but it is usually best left in cash as card terminals often do not include a tipping option.