Russia
Region
🌍 Europe
Population
👥 146
Currency
💱 Russian ruble
Languages
🗣️ Russian
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Explore the vast and diverse landscapes of Russia, a country brimming with history, culture, and natural wonders. From the imperial grandeur of St. Petersburg to the vast Siberian wilderness, Russia offers an unforgettable journey. Discover iconic landmarks like the Kremlin and Red Square, immerse yourself in the artistic treasures of world-class museums, and experience the unique charm of its diverse peoples. Whether you seek adventure in the mountains, relaxation by Lake Baikal, or the vibrant energy of Moscow, Russia promises a captivating travel experience.
Official NameSource: REST Countries
Russian Federation
Continent
Europe
DemonymSource: REST Countries
Russian
Independence
Russia's modern statehood is considered to have begun with the dissolution of the Soviet Union on December 26, 1991.
Top-Level Domain
.ru
Calling CodeSource: REST Countries
+7
Time ZoneSource: REST Countries
UTC+03:00, UTC+04:00, UTC+06:00, UTC+07:00, UTC+08:00, UTC+09:00, UTC+10:00, UTC+11:00, UTC+12:00
Capital CitySource: REST Countries
Moscow
ISO Alpha-2
RU
ISO Alpha-3
RUS
UN Code
643
Geographic Coordinates
60,100
Area (km²)Source: REST Countries
17,098,242#1 of 249
PopulationSource: REST Countries
146,028,325#9 of 247
Population Density (per km²)
8.78
Highest Point (m)
5,642 meters (Mount Elbrus).
Lowest Point (m)
-28 meters (Caspian Sea).
Land Use
Approximately 13% arable land, 4% permanent crops, and 47% forests.
Irrigated Land
Approximately 47,000 sq km.
Coastline Length
37,653 kilometers.
Climate
Varies greatly, from arctic to subarctic in Siberia to temperate in European Russia.
Natural Resources
Oil, natural gas, coal, timber, and various minerals.
Bordering CountriesSource: REST Countries
Azerbaijan, Belarus, China, Estonia, Finland, Georgia, Kazakhstan, North Korea, Latvia, Lithuania, Mongolia, Norway, Poland, Ukraine
Major Rivers
Volga, Ob, Yenisey, Lena, and Amur.
Major Lakes
Baikal, Ladoga, and Onega.
Government Type
Federated republic.
Administrative Divisions
83 federal subjects (republics, krais, oblasts, federal cities, autonomous oblast, and autonomous okrugs).
Legal System
Based on civil law; constitution adopted in 1993; judicial review of legislative acts.
Chief of State
President Vladimir Putin.
Head of Government
Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin.
Cabinet
The Cabinet of Ministers.
Elections
Presidential elections are held every six years; legislative elections for the State Duma are held every five years.
Judicial Branch
Constitutional Court, Supreme Court, and other courts.
Legislative Branch
Bicameral Federal Assembly (Federation Council and State Duma).
Major Political Parties
United Russia, Communist Party of the Russian Federation, Liberal Democratic Party of Russia, A Just Russia – Patriots – For Truth.
CurrencySource: REST Countries
Russian ruble
GDP, Nominal (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: GDP (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
2,561.31#8 of 211
GDP, PPP (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: GDP, PPP (current international $) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
7,235.55#4 of 201
GDP per Capita (US$)Source: World Bank: GDP per capita (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
17,546.61#83 of 211
GDP - Agriculture (%)Source: World Bank: Agriculture, forestry, and fishing, value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
3.06
GDP - Industry (%)Source: World Bank: Industry (including construction), value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
29.67
GDP - Services (%)Source: World Bank: Services, value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
58.88
Inflation Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Inflation, consumer prices (annual %) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
8.72#29 of 191
Labor Force (people)Source: World Bank: Labor force, total (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
72,771,294
Unemployment Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Unemployment, total (% of total labor force) (modeled ILO estimate) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
2.13#168 of 185
Public Debt (% of GDP)Source: World Bank: Central government debt, total (% of GDP) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
17.85
Budget
The budget includes revenues from energy exports and government spending.
Exports (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: Exports of goods and services (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
466.24#22 of 192
Imports (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: Imports of goods and services (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
397.18#25 of 192
Foreign Reserves
Significant foreign reserves held in various currencies.
Currency Exchange
Currency exchange rates fluctuate; check with a financial institution for current information.
GDP by Sector
Services, manufacturing, and energy are major contributors.
Major Industries
Oil and gas, manufacturing, mining, and aerospace.
Major Export Partners
China, India, and the European Union.
Major Import Partners
China, Germany, and the United States.
Society
Literacy Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Literacy rate, adult total (% of people ages 15 and above) (2021)Checked September 29, 2026
99.93#4 of 169
Birth Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Birth rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
8.4
Death Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Death rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
12.4
Net Migration Rate
Positive, with approximately 1 migrant per 1,000 population.
Median Age
Approximately 40 years.
Urban Population (%)Source: World Bank: Urban population (% of total population) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
75.25#73 of 214
Urbanization Rate
The urbanization rate is relatively stable.
Life Expectancy (years)Source: World Bank: Life expectancy at birth, total (years) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
73.4#120 of 214
HIV/AIDS Prevalence
Approximately 0.8% of adults are living with HIV/AIDS.
Health Expenditures (% of GDP)Source: World Bank: Current health expenditure (% of GDP) (2023)Checked September 29, 2026
7.04
Ethnic Groups
Russian (77.7%), Tatar (3.7%), Ukrainian (1.4%), and others.
Religions
Russian Orthodox Christianity, Islam, and others.
LanguagesSource: REST Countries
Russian
Education
Education System
The Russian education system is based on a four-tiered structure: preschool, primary, secondary, and higher education.
School Life Expectancy (years)Source: World Bank: School life expectancy, primary to tertiary, both sexes (years) (2018)Checked September 29, 2026
15.7
Government Education Spending
Government spending on education is around 3.6% of GDP.
Primary Education Access
—
Secondary Education Access
—
Higher Education Access
—
Major Universities
Major universities include Lomonosov Moscow State University and Saint Petersburg State University.
Culture
Cultural Overview
Russian culture is rich and diverse, influenced by Orthodox Christianity, Slavic traditions, and historical empires.
National HolidaysSource: Nager.Date
- Новый год (2026-01-01)
- Новогодние каникулы (2026-01-02)
- Новогодние каникулы (2026-01-03)
- Новогодние каникулы (2026-01-04)
- Новогодние каникулы (2026-01-05)
- Новогодние каникулы (2026-01-06)
- Рождество Христово (2026-01-07)
- День защитника Отечества (2026-02-23)
- Международный женский день (2026-03-08)
- День труда (2026-05-01)
- День Победы (2026-05-09)
- День России (2026-06-12)
Popular Music
Popular music genres include pop, rock, and traditional folk music.
Traditional Food
Traditional foods include borscht, pelmeni, and blini.
Sports
Popular sports include football (soccer), hockey, and figure skating.
Major Festivals
Major festivals include the Moscow International Film Festival and the Golden Mask Theatre Festival.
Famous People
Famous people include writers like Leo Tolstoy and Fyodor Dostoevsky, and cosmonauts like Yuri Gagarin.
Cultural Heritage Sites
Russia has numerous cultural heritage sites, showcasing its rich history and diverse culture.
UNESCO Sites
Russia has a large number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, reflecting its cultural and natural significance.
Annual Tourist Visits
Fluctuating, but significant, tourist numbers.
Tourism Overview
Tourism sector recovering; offers diverse attractions.
Top Tourist Attractions
Kremlin, Red Square, St. Basil's Cathedral, Hermitage Museum, Lake Baikal.
Famous Cities
Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan, Sochi.
National Parks
Many national parks with diverse ecosystems.
Protected Areas
Significant protected areas for biodiversity conservation.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Russia depends heavily on your interests. For city breaks, particularly Moscow and St. Petersburg, spring (May-June) and early autumn (September) offer pleasant temperatures for sightseeing and fewer crowds than peak summer. Summer (July-August) is ideal for exploring the vast natural landscapes, enjoying river cruises, and visiting coastal areas, though it can be warm and busy. For those seeking winter wonderlands and activities like skiing or experiencing the Northern Lights, December to February is the prime time, especially in Siberia and the northern regions. Festival enthusiasts should research specific events, as many vibrant cultural celebrations occur throughout the year, such as Maslenitsa in late winter and various music and film festivals in summer. Beach destinations, while less common in Russia compared to other countries, are best enjoyed during the warmer months of June to August.
Tourist Visa Info
Visa requirements vary by nationality; e-visas available for certain regions.
Visa Requirements Overview
Tourist visa requirements for Russia vary significantly based on your nationality. Many nationalities require a visa to enter the country for tourism purposes, which typically involves applying in advance through a Russian embassy or consulate. Common requirements include a completed application form, a valid passport with sufficient remaining validity, invitation letters from a registered Russian tour operator or hotel, and proof of travel insurance. Some countries have visa-free agreements with Russia for short stays, allowing citizens to enter for tourism without a visa for a specified period. It is crucial to check the specific regulations for your country of citizenship well in advance of your planned travel dates, as visa processing times can vary. Always ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
Travel Advisory
Travel advisories vary depending on the region; check your country's guidance.
Healthcare
Healthcare Quality
Healthcare quality varies across the country.
Medical Cost
Medical costs vary depending on the service and location.
Number of Hospitals
Russia has a large number of hospitals, both public and private.
Universal Healthcare
Russia has a state-funded healthcare system, but access and quality vary.
Medical Services Overview
Healthcare services are provided through a mix of public and private facilities.
Emergency Medical Access
Emergency medical services are available throughout the country, but response times may vary.
Emergency & Safety
Emergency Number (Police)
Police: 102
Emergency Number (Ambulance)
Ambulance: 103
Emergency Number (Fire)
Fire: 101
Crime Rate
Crime rates vary by region, with some areas having higher rates than others.
Safety Index
The safety index varies depending on the specific location within Russia.
Military Expenditure
Military expenditure is significant.
Emergency Services Overview
Emergency services are generally available in urban areas.
Safety Overview
Russia is generally a safe country for tourists, with petty crime being the most common concern. Be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas like train stations, markets, and popular tourist attractions, where pickpocketing can occur. While violent crime against tourists is rare, it is wise to avoid displaying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry. Taxis booked through reputable apps or hotels are recommended over hailing ones on the street. Be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or tours, as these can sometimes be a prelude to a scam. It is advisable to have a basic understanding of Russian phrases or a translation app, especially when venturing outside major cities. Always keep copies of your important documents separate from the originals. Medical facilities in major cities are generally good, but travel insurance is highly recommended.
Military Branches
Military branches include the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Infrastructure
Electricity Access
Electricity access is almost universal.
Water Access
Access to improved water sources is widespread.
Sanitation Access
Access to improved sanitation is available in most areas.
Railways
Russia has an extensive railway network, including the Trans-Siberian Railway.
Roadways
Roadways are extensive, but quality varies greatly across the country.
Transportation System
Russia has a vast transportation system including air, rail, road, and water transport.
AirportsSource: OurAirports
Abakan International Airport (ABA), Akhmat Kadyrov Grozny International Airport (GRV), Alexei Leonov Kemerovo International Airport (KEJ), Alykel International Airport (NSK), Astrakhan Narimanovo Boris M. Kustodiev International Airport (ASF), Baikal International Airport (UUD)
Ports
Russia has major ports on the Baltic Sea, Black Sea, and Pacific Ocean.
Public Transit
Public transit is available in major cities, including metro systems, buses, and trams.
Technology & Communication
Internet Penetration (%)Source: World Bank: Individuals using the Internet (% of population) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
94.36#35 of 211
Mobile Subscriptions (per 100)
Relatively high mobile penetration.
Tech Startups
Growing tech startup scene, particularly in Moscow and St. Petersburg.
Innovation Index
Moderate, with room for improvement.
ICT Development Index
Moderate, with improvements in recent years.
TV Broadcast Stations
Numerous television broadcast stations.
Radio Broadcast Stations
Extensive radio broadcasting infrastructure.
Plug Type & Voltage
Type C/F, 230V, 50Hz
CO2 Emissions (t per capita)Source: World Bank: Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions excluding LULUCF per capita (t CO2e/capita) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
13.98#14 of 202
Air Quality Index
Air quality varies, with urban areas often experiencing poor air quality due to industrial emissions and vehicle exhaust.
Water Pollution Level
Water pollution is a significant issue, particularly in industrial regions, rivers, and lakes, stemming from industrial discharge and agricultural runoff.
Renewable Energy Usage
Renewable energy usage is growing but remains relatively low compared to fossil fuels, with hydropower being the most significant renewable source.
Environmental Issues
Major issues include air and water pollution, deforestation, soil erosion, and climate change impacts.
Natural Hazards
Natural hazards include wildfires, droughts, floods, earthquakes, and landslides.
Waste Management
Waste management faces challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, illegal dumping, and insufficient recycling efforts. Landfills are common.
Environmental Agreements
Party to major environmental agreements, including climate change, biodiversity, and ozone layer protection.
UN MembershipSource: REST Countries
Yes
Diplomatic Missions
Maintains diplomatic missions globally.
International OrganizationsSource: REST Countries
G20, BRICS
Major Treaties
Signatory and party to numerous major international treaties and agreements.
Visa-Free Countries
Offers visa-free travel to citizens of numerous countries, varying by agreement.