£1 RUB 107.99
Today
7:01 am
+3h from you
Travel warning
The country is involved in a major conflict, with drone attacks and security incidents happening in cities, which means flights are often cancelled and it's very difficult to leave.
Weather in Russia
Russia
12°
Overcast
Wed
1
12
Thu
-1
11
Fri
2
13
Sat
5
14
Sun
7
12
SPF level in Russia
Recommended: SPF 30
Spring
SPF 30
Summer
SPF 30
Autumn
SPF 15
Winter
SPF 15
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around Russia
Language in Russia
Tipping in Russia
Tipping in Russia is not always mandatory, but it's becoming increasingly common, especially in tourist areas. It's a way to show appreciation for good service.
Restaurant
5-10% of the bill if service is not included. Check the bill first, as some restaurants automatically add a service charge.
Bar/Café
Rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount (5-10%) for good service is appreciated.
Taxi
Rounding up the fare is common. For exceptional service, you can tip 5-10%.
Hotel Porter
50-100 RUB per bag.
Hotel Housekeeper
50-100 RUB per day, left at the end of your stay.
Tour Guide
5-10% of the tour price, depending on the length and quality of the tour.
Safety in Russia
Tips for British travellers
Russia is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Terrorist attacks could happen anywhere, including at large concerts, tourist sites, and on public transport.
Watch your belongings in tourist areas and on public transport to avoid mugging, pickpocketing, and theft.
Always carry your original passport with you as ID, as police carry out random checks and you could be fined or detained without it.
Be cautious of drink spiking in bars and clubs, which can lead to robbery or serious harm, especially in cold weather.
Beware of counterfeit alcohol containing methanol, which can be fatal, and never accept drinks from unverified sources.
Bonus tips:
Agree on a fare before getting into a taxi or ensure the meter is running, and only use registered taxis called by your hotel or an app.
Photography is illegal at military, secure, or official sites like airports, and you could be detained if you take pictures.
Driving in Russia
A UK driving license is valid for driving in Russia for up to 6 months. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
110 km/h
Urban speed limit
60 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.0%
Remember: Russia drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
112
Police
102
Ambulance
103
Fire
101
Save 112 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Russia
Voltage
220V / 50Hz
Plug types
Type C, Type F
UK adapter needed?
Yes
Russia uses 220V at 50Hz. Plugs are typically Type C and Type F. British travelers will need an adapter.
Cards & payments
Acceptance varies. Major hotels, restaurants, and shops in cities generally accept cards, but smaller establishments and rural areas may only accept cash.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1-303-967-1094
ATMs in Russia
Good in major cities and tourist areas, but less so in rural regions.
Local name
Банкомат
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are readily available in urban centers. Ensure your card is chip and PIN enabled. Be aware of transaction fees charged by both your bank and the ATM provider.
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, EU roaming regulations no longer apply. Check with your mobile provider for roaming charges in Russia. Rates can be high, so consider purchasing a local SIM card for more affordable data and calls.
Local SIM data package
30 GB for 1200 RUB (~£15)
Network coverage
4G/LTE, 3G, 2G
Local carriers
MTS, Megafon, Beeline
WiFi & internet
Widely available in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and some public spaces in major cities.
Average speed
30 Mbps
WiFi is generally accessible in urban areas, but speed and reliability can vary. Mobile data is a good backup. Many hostels, hotels and cafes offer free wifi.
Health & vaccinations in Russia
As a British tourist, your EHIC/GHIC card is not valid in Russia. Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including repatriation, before you travel. Check the policy covers all activities you plan to do.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Consider seeking medical advice about vaccinations and malaria prevention well in advance of travel.
Consult your doctor or a travel clinic for the latest health advice and recommended vaccinations for Russia. Drink bottled water to avoid stomach upsets. Medical facilities may be limited outside major cities. Carry a basic medical kit.
Calling Russia
Country code
+7
To call Russia from the UK, dial 00 7 followed by the Russian phone number (area code if applicable).
00 7 495 123 4567 (Moscow number)
The country code for Russia is 7. The exit code from the UK is 00. Be aware that mobile roaming charges can be high, so consider purchasing a local SIM card.
UK Embassy in Russia
British Embassy Moscow
Smolenskaya Naberezhnaya 10, Moscow, 121099, Russia
Airports in Russia
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.