Northwestern Russia Travel Guide

Northwestern Russia is a region of contrasts: a land where imperial cities meet remote forests, where the icy Baltic winds mingle with the calm waters of Lake Ladoga, and where centuries of cultural influence from Scandinavia, the Baltics, and Europe have left their mark. Stretching from the glittering spires of St. Petersburg to the Karelia Republic’s wilderness, Northwestern Russia is one of the country’s most fascinating and accessible areas for travelers.

It is here that Russia opened its “window to Europe” with the founding of St. Petersburg by Peter the Great, establishing a cultural and political bridge to the West. Beyond the imperial palaces and world-class museums, the region offers unspoiled landscapes of lakes, rivers, and forests, as well as medieval fortresses and wooden villages that preserve age-old traditions. The region includes Leningrad Oblast, Novgorod, Pskov, Karelia, Murmansk, Arkhangelsk, Komi, and stretches all the way to the Russian Arctic.

Visitors can explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, from the medieval kremlins of Novgorod and Pskov to the churches of Kizhi Island, or embark on adventures to the Solovetsky Islands and the northern lights of Murmansk. Whether you are drawn to history, architecture, or outdoor exploration, Northwestern Russia offers a journey into both Russia’s past and its natural grandeur.

This travel guide explores the region’s history, landmarks, outdoor activities, cuisine, shopping, day trips, and practical information, giving a complete picture of why Northwestern Russia should be on every traveler’s list.