Weekend Getaways Surge in Popularity Across Russia: A New Trend in Travel

In recent years, short trips have really taken off across Russia. With the fast pace of modern life and the rising cost of longer vacations, many people are turning to quick weekend getaways as their go-to option. The demanding work culture in big cities, where the pressure never seems to let up, makes it harder to find time for long holidays. As a result, people are opting for more frequent, shorter breaks that allow them to recharge without the time or financial burden of extended vacations. These quick escapes are now seen as the perfect way to refresh the mind and break away from the daily grind.

Affordability and Convenience Fuel the Trend

One of the main drivers of the growing popularity of short trips in Russia is affordability. The cost of long vacations, especially international ones, has risen significantly. This has led many to opt for budget-friendly alternatives, such as weekend breaks, which offer a low-cost way to explore new places. Additionally, short trips provide an affordable option for people seeking new experiences without stretching their finances. The convenience factor is also essential—weekend getaways are easier to plan, require less time off from work, and are often more flexible in terms of dates and destinations.

The Appeal of Quick Escapes

Unlike long holidays, which require careful planning and booking, weekend trips allow for spontaneous travel. This flexibility is one of the key reasons why short breaks have gained traction in the post-pandemic world. With fewer preparations needed, travellers are more likely to decide on a getaway at the last minute. Moreover, the destinations chosen for such trips are often within easy reach, allowing people to enjoy a change of scenery without straying too far from home.

In Russia, the most popular weekend travel destinations are typically located within close proximity to major cities, offering both cultural experiences and natural beauty. The Moscow region and the famous Golden Ring are particularly attractive, with towns like Torzhok, Kolomna, Sergiev Posad, Suzdal, Dmitrov, and Tula being top choices. These historic towns are perfect for travellers seeking culture, heritage, and picturesque landscapes within a short drive from the capital. The ease of access to these places, combined with their historical charm, makes them ideal destinations for a weekend trip.

Regional Preferences and Emerging Destinations

Regional travel habits in Russia vary depending on location. Muscovites prefer to explore the Moscow region and nearby Golden Ring towns, while St Petersburg residents tend to head towards Karelia, Pskov, and Veliky Novgorod. In southern Russia, residents of the Krasnodar Territory, Stavropol Territory, and Rostov region frequently opt for weekend resort breaks. A notable rise in demand has been observed for popular resort destinations such as Gelendzhik, Arkhyz, Krasnaya Polyana, and Kislovodsk, with booking numbers showing an increase of up to 65%. These resorts attract visitors year-round, offering a range of activities from skiing in winter to wellness retreats and nature experiences in the warmer months.

This surge in weekend tourism has been further driven by improved transport links and the growing popularity of car tourism. With better road infrastructure, travellers can easily reach remote locations, adding to the overall appeal of short getaways. The availability of various accommodation options, from apartments and glamping sites to wellness hotels, also contributes to the attractiveness of weekend trips. Whether it’s a quick escape to nature or a relaxing wellness stay, there are plenty of choices to cater to different preferences.

Events Boost Weekend Tourism

The role of events in driving weekend travel cannot be overstated. Cities like Nizhny Novgorod, Yaroslavl, and Suzdal have seen significant increases in bookings, largely due to the hosting of sports events, concerts, and food festivals. For instance, Nizhny Novgorod experienced a 12% rise in summer bookings compared to the previous year, while Suzdal and Yaroslavl saw a 10% increase. The appeal of these events has extended the duration of visits, with tourists choosing to stay for the weekend to enjoy not only the destination’s sights but also its vibrant cultural scene.

The ability to attract travellers through these events has allowed cities to expand their tourist offerings and cater to the growing demand for weekend stays. Hotels and resorts have adapted by offering specialized services tailored to short-term stays, such as flexible check-in and check-out times, demand-based pricing, weekend packages, family rates, and pet-friendly policies. Local experiences, such as guided tours and authentic cultural experiences, have become key components of the weekend tourism business model, providing added value to visitors.

The Bleisure Effect and International Destinations

The growing popularity of “bleisure” travel—the combination of business and leisure—has also contributed to the rise of weekend tourism in Russia. Many professionals are now extending their work trips over the weekend to explore new destinations. Cities like Sochi, Vladivostok, Irkutsk, and Khabarovsk are seeing a high percentage of business travellers combining work and leisure. International destinations such as Shenzhen, Shanghai, Phuket, Bangkok, and Tbilisi are also part of this trend, where business trips are extended to enjoy short leisure stays.

In Russia, the flexibility of weekend getaways has been further facilitated by the increasing availability of affordable flights and improved transportation options. This has allowed travellers to easily combine business obligations with leisure activities, contributing to the steady growth of weekend tourism.

The Future of Weekend Getaways in Russia

The demand for short trips shows no sign of slowing down. In 2025, weekend tourism became the primary way Russians experienced travel, with many preferring these quick escapes over more traditional, long vacations. The rise of short trips aligns with changing work patterns and lifestyles, where frequent but shorter breaks are seen as an effective way to recharge. As travel infrastructure improves and regional destinations continue to develop, weekend getaways will likely remain a staple of Russian tourism in the years to come.

Conclusion

Weekend getaways have firmly established themselves as a major trend in Russia’s tourism scene. With the hustle and bustle of daily life, these quick escapes offer a perfect way to unwind without the stress of long vacations. People are seeking convenience, affordability, and a chance to recharge mentally, and weekend trips fit the bill perfectly. Whether it’s wandering through charming historic towns, enjoying a peaceful resort stay, or immersing in local cultural events, these short breaks provide a refreshing change of pace. They offer the excitement of discovering new places, all while staying within reach of home and without breaking the bank. Looking ahead, the popularity of weekend tourism in Russia shows no signs of slowing down—it’s a trend that’s likely to keep growing, with even more opportunities for adventure and relaxation just around the corner.