The 2018 FIFA World Cup will kick off in Russia on Thursday, and will be played on 12 courses in 11 Russian cities. There are a lot of charming attractions in Russia, so why not seize this opportunity to explore!
No.1 Moscow
It is no exaggeration to say that no trip through Russia would be completed without a stop in Moscow, which is the most populous city of Russia and will hold the 2018 FIFA World Cup opening ceremony, semi-finals and finals. During your trip, if you take the World Cup themed subway in Moscow to start your journey, you are sure to be impressed. In the center of Moscow, the Kremlin is one of the most famous landmarks and as a fortified complex, overlooking the Moskva River to the south and Saint Basil's Cathedral as well as Red Square to the east, it is a must-see. Also, you can watch the splendid performances at the magnificent Bolshoi Theatre of Russia. Afterwards, you may be tempted by the many souvenirs for sale at the World Cup official store in Lubyanka Square.
No.2 Saint Petersburg
In Saint Petersburg, the "Venice of the North," the polar day in June and July adds immeasurably to the charm of this already captivating city. You should make time to visit the "Gulf of Finland" or the "Winter Palace Square" and enjoy the views. The Marin Theater is also a recommended destination in Saint Petersburg, which boasts a 200-year history.
No.3 Yekaterinburg
On the border of Asia and Europe, Yekaterinburg is the fourth-largest city in Russia and it is also the administrative center of Sverdlovsk Oblast. This year, Yekaterinburg became the only Siberian city among the 11 host cities of the 2018 FIFA World Cup. In Yekaterinburg, if you stand on the monument to the division of Eurasia, you can go left into Asia or turn the other way into Europe. This fertile city in the heart of the Ural Mountains is preparing to show its summer enthusiasm to all visitors.
No.4 Sergiyev
After visiting several modern cities, you might as well get a taste of an ancient town. Sergiyev is one of the well-known villages in Russia and it is not far from Moscow, thus you can walk along the Volga River after watching a soccer game to enjoy the tranquility of the countryside. You can also buy various gifts from one of the many workshops making Russian dolls and other crafts; Sergiyev is actually the manufacturing center of the toy industry in Russia. Besides this, there are many first-rate architectural monuments outside the Laura, such as the Chapel of St Paraskeva.
Besides the charming scenery, you can also taste a variety of Russian food during the trip. Why not try caviar? Or maybe a glass of sweet mead? But whatever you do, before setting out, plan your journey well and be safe.
