Russians flock to domestic travel in 2025, spending surges
A surge in domestic tourism gripped Russia in 2025, with a staggering 173.9 million trips taken – a 7.4% increase that signals a profound shift in Travel habits. This isn't just a blip; it represents nearly a doubling of journeys since 2021, showcasing a remarkable resilience in local Travel preferences.
Moscow leads the way as russians explore their country
The figures, compiled by Sberbank, reveal a clear pattern: Russians are prioritizing destinations within their own borders, demonstrating a sustained preference for internal movement despite ongoing global uncertainties. The most popular destinations are concentrated in a handful of regions, with ten zones accounting for over 50% of all Travel. Moscow, bolstered by its surrounding region, remains the dominant player, surpassing even its immediate environs. St. Petersburg and Krasnodar Krai followed closely, drawing visitors with their rich histories, urban appeal, and coastal attractions.
The typical Russian traveler in 2025 was 44 years old, a demographic increasingly drawn to cities, particularly Moscow and St. Petersburg. Interestingly, women comprised just over half of all travelers, often favoring cities like Kaliningrad and St. Petersburg, and the southern coastline. Men, conversely, tended towards destinations in Siberia and the Far East. This gender split highlights distinct regional preferences shaping Travel patterns.
Spending on domestic tourism reached approximately 1.94 trillion rubles in 2025, a substantial 44.8% increase compared to four years prior. Digital payments dominated, accounting for 68.2% of all transactions. While expenses varied, with remote areas like Chukotka proving the most costly, average daily spending reached 1,365 rubles – an 8.7% rise. The rise in higher-income travelers, those earning over 100,000 rubles monthly, has also fueled this growth, driving demand for premium experiences.
The Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug, Chukotka, Yakutia, Krasnodar Krai, and Crimea saw particularly long stays, suggesting visitors are seeking deeper exploration in these more remote locations. This shift towards longer, more immersive trips, combined with a growing appetite for quality, points to a maturing domestic tourism market. The sector's resilience isn't born of grand strategies, but of adaptations across regions.
The numbers tell a clear story: Russia’s domestic tourism isn’t just surviving; it’s thriving. This quiet momentum, driven by evolving habits, offers a compelling counterpoint to broader geopolitical narratives. The focus now shifts to catering to these changing demands, building on the solid foundation established by a nation rediscovering its own landscapes.