Russia’s New Favourite Travel Trend: Short Trips Soar in Popularity in 2025, All You Need To Know

The tourism industry in Russia experienced a major transformation during the year 2025. Weekend getaways surged in popularity, which became the most common travel method for Russians. Yandex Travel, a leading Russian travel platform, reported that over 85 percent of its bookings were for short trips. The current figure shows a 29 percent increase from the previous year, which demonstrates that people prefer short vacations instead of extended ones.

Reasons Behind the Popularity of Short Trips in Russia

Several factors have contributed to the growing trend of short trips within Russia. First and foremost, the fast-paced lifestyle in major cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg has left many looking for frequent but brief getaways to disconnect from the daily grind. Roman Gareev, a tourism expert at the Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, explained that people’s busy schedules now demand more frequent but shorter breaks. In addition, the rising cost of long vacations has made short trips more affordable, catering to a broader demographic.

These short trips fit perfectly into tight schedules and budgets, offering flexibility and the opportunity for impromptu travel. With the reduced travel restrictions following the pandemic, Russian travellers are now seeking quick changes in scenery, typically staying within their own regions. This trend has revitalised local tourism, especially in smaller towns and areas with easy access from major cities.

Key Destinations for Weekend Getaways in Russia

The appeal of weekend travel lies in the accessibility of nearby destinations. Areas that offer a mix of history, nature, and cultural experiences have become particularly attractive. The Moscow region and Golden Ring, a group of historic towns northeast of the capital, continue to be top destinations for weekend trips. Places like Torzhok, Kolomna, Sergiev Posad, Suzdal, and Dmitrov have seen a significant increase in visitors. These towns offer easy access, cultural richness, and scenic beauty, making them ideal for a quick break.

In addition to these historical hotspots, resort towns have experienced a surge in demand. The Black Sea coast, including destinations like Gelendzhik and Krasnaya Polyana, has become a popular choice, with some regions like Arkhyz seeing increases of up to 62 percent in short-term bookings. These destinations offer a range of activities, from skiing in winter to spa and nature retreats throughout the year. The adaptability of these locations, providing year-round attractions, is key to their success.

Regional Preferences: Where Russians Go for Weekend Escapes

Travel habits in Russia vary regionally. Muscovites tend to prefer destinations close to the capital, such as those in the Golden Ring or towns within the Moscow region. Meanwhile, residents of St. Petersburg often head towards the northern regions, including Karelia, Pskov, and Veliky Novgorod, which are known for their natural beauty and historical significance. Residents of southern regions like Krasnodar, Stavropol, and Rostov are increasingly choosing resorts, benefiting from improved infrastructure and transport links.

Moreover, as transportation networks improve, travellers can explore remote areas more easily. Car tourism has been a key driver of this trend, with many choosing to travel by car for the flexibility it offers. Additionally, train travel remains a popular option for those seeking to experience Russia’s vast landscapes without the hassle of long-haul flights.

The Bleisure Factor: Combining Business with Leisure

A growing trend within the short-trip sector is bleisure travel, combining business trips with leisure activities. This trend has gained traction as more professionals are extending their work trips to explore new destinations. Cities like Sochi, Vladivostok, and Irkutsk are seeing a rise in bleisure tourism, with large portions of business travellers opting to extend their stays over weekends to enjoy local attractions. This shift is not only boosting local tourism but also supporting the hospitality industry’s growth.

Hotel Industry Adjusts to Short Trip Demand

The growing popularity of short trips has encouraged hoteliers to adapt their offerings. Many now focus on attracting weekend travellers by offering special packages, weekend rates, and flexible check-in/out options. Some hotels even cater to the bleisure market by offering amenities such as meeting rooms combined with leisure facilities. Additionally, pet-friendly policies and local experiences have become key features that attract short-stay visitors. Hotels are also focusing on demand-based pricing, offering better deals for those staying just over the weekend.

Short Trips as the Future of Russian Tourism

The main travel trend in Russia now shows an increase in short trips because people want to visit nearby places while economic conditions and urbanization continue to change their travel habits. The 2025 travel statistics show that short weekend trips became more popular than traditional long vacations because they provided travelers with better flexible travel options and lower travel costs and easier travel possibilities. The Russian local tourism industry flourishes because people now travel to resort towns and historical sites through better transportation connections which allow them to take regular vacations without spending too much time or money.

Short-trip tourism will become an essential component of Russia’s traveling future because it provides authentic local experiences to a broader population as this practice continues to expand.