+ 1 h (Kaliningrad); + 3 h (Moscow, St. Petersburg); + 3-12 h (extreme east of the country)

Moscow (Moskwa)

Russian

• 220 volts
• A travel plug adapter for Type C and F sockets is required.

Banks
9:00 am - 5:00/6:00 pm (Mon - Fri)
9:00 am - 3:00 pm (Sat)

Shops
8:00/9:00 am - 7:00/8:00 pm (Mon - Sat)

Grocery shops
8:00 am - 8:00 pm (Mon - Sun)

Some larger supermarkets, particularly in major cities, may be open 24 hours a day.

• 1 January: New Year’s Day (Новый год)
• 2 to 6 January: Russian New Year holidays (Новогодние каникулы)
• 7 January: Russian Orthodox Christmas (Рождество Христово)
• 23 February: Defender of the Fatherland Day (День защитника Отечества)
• 8 March: International Women’s Day (Международный женский день)
• 1 May: Spring and Labour Day (Праздник Весны и Труда)
• 9 May: Victory Day (День Победы)
• 12 June: Russia Day (День России)
• 4 November: National Unity Day (День народного единства)

The following documents are required to enter Russia:

• A passport valid for at least 6 months after the end of the stay.
• Swiss nationals require a visa or residence permit for entry, exit and transit. The visa must be obtained before entering Russia from a Russian diplomatic mission abroad. Visas cannot be issued at Russian border crossing points.

• Russia offers Swiss nationals a simplified e-visa allowing a short stay of up to 16 days.

• Health insurance is compulsory, and proof of insurance must be submitted when applying for the visa.
• Foreign nationals staying for seven days or more are required to register. Hotels complete the registration on the first day after arrival. In other cases, the host, for example the Russian partner of the travel agency, must register the traveller with the migration authorities (UWM). Personal registration by the guest is only possible in exceptional cases.

• Minors: Check with the local authorities regarding entry formalities for minors.

As of: August 2024

Russia has a highly varied climate that differs considerably from region to region:

• European Russia (including Moscow and St Petersburg): these regions have a temperate continental climate. Winters are long and cold, with temperatures ranging from -10°C to -20°C and snowfall from November to March. Summers are short and warm, with temperatures between 20°C and 30°C from June to August. The transitional seasons, spring and autumn, are short, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C.
• Russian Far East (including Vladivostok): this region has a monsoon climate with cold, snowy winters, when temperatures range from -15°C to -25°C. Summers are mild to warm, with temperatures between 15°C and 25°C.
• Caucasus region: the Black Sea coast has a subtropical climate, with mild winters (5°C to 10°C) and hot summers (25°C to 35°C).
• Ural Mountains: the Urals have a continental climate, with long, cold winters (from -15°C to -25°C) and short, warm summers (from 15°C to 25°C). Snowfall is frequent from November to April.

Best time to travel to Russia:

• City breaks (Moscow, St Petersburg): May to September, when the weather is mild and the days are longer.
• Winter experiences (Siberia, Urals): December to February, to experience extreme cold and snowy landscapes.
• Nature and adventure travel (Lake Baikal, Altai): June to August, when the weather is pleasant and nature is at its most vibrant.
• Black Sea coast (Sochi): June to September, for a warm and sunny beach holiday.
• Wildlife watching: April to October, particularly in the protected areas of Siberia and the Russian Far East.

Using a mobile phone in Russia may incur roaming charges. Travellers are advised to check the applicable roaming fees before departure and, where necessary, purchase a suitable roaming package to reduce costs.

• Free Wi-Fi is available in cafés, hotels and public spaces.
• Since 1 July 2025, strict rules have applied in Russia to foreign nationals purchasing and using SIM cards. These now require an extensive identification process, a SNILS number (a type of social insurance number), a GosUslugi account (the central online platform for most government services) and biometric data, regardless of the length of stay or visa category.

• Red Square and the Kremlin, Moscow: the heart of Russia, with historic landmarks such as St Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s Mausoleum.
• Hermitage Museum and Winter Palace, St Petersburg: one of the world’s largest and most important art museums, with an impressive collection.
• Lake Baikal, Siberia: the world’s deepest and oldest freshwater lake, renowned for its crystal-clear beauty.
• Catherine Palace, Pushkin: a magnificent Baroque palace featuring the famous Amber Room.
• Peterhof, St Petersburg: a spectacular palace complex with extensive gardens and impressive fountains.
• Bolshoi Theatre, Moscow: a world-famous opera and ballet theatre known for its exceptional performances.
• Kazan Kremlin, Kazan: a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing a blend of Russian and Tatar architecture.
• Trans-Siberian Railway: the longest railway line in the world, crossing Russia from Moscow to Vladivostok.
• Novgorod and its historic old town: one of Russia’s oldest cities, rich in medieval architecture and history.

Russia offers a varied and hearty cuisine characterised by simple but flavourful ingredients and traditional preparation methods. Its culinary landscape reflects the country’s cultural and geographical diversity.

• Soups and stews: soups such as borscht (beetroot soup) and shchi (cabbage soup) are central to Russian cuisine and are often served as a starter or main course.
• Filled dough dishes: pelmeni (filled dumplings) and vareniki (similar to pelmeni, but often with sweet fillings) are popular dishes and are commonly served with sour cream.
• Bread and pastries: rye bread is a staple in Russia and accompanies almost every meal. Pirozhki (filled buns or pastries) and blini (Russian pancakes) are also widely enjoyed.
• Meat and fish: dishes such as beef Stroganoff and grilled fish, for example sturgeon or pike, are popular main courses. Caviar, particularly black caviar, is considered a delicacy.
• Herbs and sauces: Russian cuisine commonly uses simple herbs such as dill and parsley, while sour cream and mustard are frequent accompaniments.
• Sweets: classic Russian desserts include medovik (honey cake) and pastila (a sweet fruit-based confection).
• Drinks: tea is one of the most popular beverages and is often served with sugar and lemon. Kvass, a fermented bread-based drink, is also widespread. Vodka is the best-known Russian alcoholic drink.

• Greetings: in Russia, a firm handshake accompanied by direct eye contact is the customary form of greeting. Among close friends and family members, warm hugs or kisses on the cheek are common.
• Saying please and thank you: politeness is appreciated. A simple “Пожалуйста” (Pazhaluysta) for “please” and “Спасибо” (Spasibo) for “thank you” are not only polite, but also a sign of respect.
• Clothing: great importance is placed on neat and appropriate clothing in Russia, especially in formal or business settings. In churches, it is respectful for men to remove their hats and for women to cover their shoulders and, ideally, wear a headscarf.
• Dining etiquette: it is common to begin a meal with “Приятного аппетита!” (Priyatnogo appetita – enjoy your meal). As a sign of respect, wait for the host to start eating before you begin. It is best to try some of every dish offered, as this is considered polite and appreciative. Finishing the food on your plate shows that you enjoyed the meal, while accepting a second helping is often seen as a compliment to the cook.
• Smoking: smoking is strictly regulated on public transport, in restaurants and in many public buildings in Russia. It is important to smoke only in designated smoking areas. When with others, always ask politely before lighting a cigarette.
• Tipping: tipping is customary in Russia and is seen as a sign of appreciation. In restaurants and taxis, around 10-15% of the bill is common. Even when service is included in more upscale restaurants, a small additional tip is generally appreciated.

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  Tap water does not meet the standards commonly found in Western Europe, and travellers are advised not to drink it directly.

   

• Vaccination against hepatitis A is recommended for travel to Russia. For longer stays or in cases of particular risk, vaccination against hepatitis B, rabies and tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is also recommended.
• Ensure that your standard vaccinations and those of your children are up to date in accordance with the Swiss vaccination schedule issued by the Federal Office of Public Health.

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• Medical care in Russia, particularly outside the major cities, is often of a lower standard. Knowledge of the local language is required in most medical facilities. In Moscow, St Petersburg and other large cities, there are some private hospitals with better equipment and higher standards.
• Pharmacies in large Russian cities are well stocked and offer essential standard medicines. There is generally no need to bring medication with you, except for specific medical needs.

• Before and during your trip, keep informed about the current situation through the media and remain in contact with your tour operator.
• Travellers are advised against travelling to Russia and against any non-essential stays.
• In view of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the situation in Russia is becoming increasingly unpredictable. Drone attacks are occurring more frequently, particularly in regions bordering Ukraine, resulting in deaths and injuries. The situation remains tense, and a deterioration cannot be ruled out.
• The Russian authorities have warned of an increased terrorist threat and advise exercising particular vigilance.

• Further information on the current security situation is available on the website of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).

As of: October 2025

• A Swiss driving licence is only accepted if it is presented together with a certified Russian translation. Otherwise, an international driving permit is required and is only valid in combination with the national driving licence.

• The minimum age for renting a car ranges from 22 to 25, depending on the company. An international driving permit may be required depending on the rental company.

• A CH sticker, first-aid kit, fire extinguisher and warning triangle are compulsory.
• Driving with the headlights switched on is compulsory all year round, including during the day.
• Winter tyres are compulsory from 1 December to 1 March.

• Blood alcohol limit: 0.3‰.

• Long-distance trains: Russia’s long-distance rail network, operated by RZD (Russian Railways), including the famous Trans-Siberian Railway, provides reliable connections between the country’s major cities and regions. These trains are known for their long-distance routes and comfortable travel options. 
• Regional trains: Regional trains operated by RZD connect cities and smaller communities within a region and neighbouring areas. They offer a convenient way to explore the country beyond the major metropolitan areas and are often a cost-effective alternative to air travel.
• Buses: The extensive bus network connects both cities and rural regions across Russia at affordable prices. It is a practical option for travellers wishing to reach destinations without direct rail connections.
• Metro: Seven cities in Russia have metro systems, including Moscow, St Petersburg and Novosibirsk. These metros provide a fast and efficient way to travel within the city. In Moscow and St Petersburg in particular, the metro systems are known not only for their punctuality but also for their magnificent, historically styled stations.
• Tickets: Tickets for public transport can be purchased from ticket machines, ticket counters, online or directly from the driver.
• Timetables and apps: Digital timetables and apps such as Yandex, Metro, RZD and Yandex Transport provide real-time information, route planning and convenient ticket purchasing.

Many airlines have significantly reduced or completely suspended their flights to Russia. Direct flights between Russia and Switzerland are currently no longer available. (As of: October 2025)

Here are some of the main airports in Russia:

• Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO) – Moscow: Russia’s largest aviation hub and one of the busiest airports in the country.

• Domodedovo International Airport (DME) – Moscow: Another major airport in Moscow offering numerous international and domestic connections.

• Vnukovo International Airport (VKO) – Moscow: The capital’s third-largest airport, known for its VIP services and domestic flights.

• Pulkovo Airport (LED) – St Petersburg: The main airport in northern Russia, connecting St Petersburg with the rest of the world.

• Koltsovo Airport (SVX) – Yekaterinburg: The gateway to the Urals, serving both domestic and international flights.

• Tolmachevo Airport (OVB) – Novosibirsk: The main airport in Siberia and an important hub for flights to Asia and Europe.

• Platov International Airport (ROV) – Rostov-on-Don: A modern airport in southern Russia connecting the region with domestic and international destinations.

• Kazan International Airport (KZN) – Kazan: The main airport of Tatarstan and an important hub between Europe and Asia.

• Sochi International Airport (AER) – Sochi: The main airport on the Black Sea coast.

• Krasnoyarsk International Airport (KJA) – Krasnoyarsk: A major airport in Siberia that plays a key role in regional air travel.

• Irkutsk International Airport (IKT) – Irkutsk: The gateway to Lake Baikal, serving numerous domestic and international routes.

• Vladivostok International Airport (VVO) – Vladivostok: One of Russia’s easternmost airports, offering connections to Asia and the Pacific region.

8 (wait for the dial tone) 10 41 (omit the zero from the Swiss area code)

• Single emergency number: 112
• Police: 102
• Ambulance: 103

Per. Ogorodnaya Sloboda 2/5
101000 Moscow

Tel. +7 495 258 38 30
Email: moscow@eda.admin.ch

• Russia considers Switzerland and other countries that have imposed sanctions to be “unfriendly states”. Countermeasures against Switzerland and its nationals may therefore be taken. (As of: August 2025)
• ravellers should always carry their passport or a copy of it, including the page containing the visa.
• Photographing military installations and certain public buildings or infrastructure, such as airports and bridges, is prohibited.
• Prison sentences may be imposed on anyone who disseminates information about the Russian military that the Russian authorities consider false, or who calls for sanctions against Russia.
• Some foreign websites, including media outlets and social networks, are no longer accessible.
• Drug laws are very strict.