Russia's domestic tourism booms: travelers return to local destinations
Russians flocked to their own country in unprecedented numbers during 2025, with domestic trips reaching 173.9 million – a 7.4% surge that signals a profound shift in Travel habits. This isn't a blip; journeys have nearly doubled since 2021, a staggering 43.5% growth.
Domestic travel reaches new heights
Sberbank's data reveals a resilient domestic tourism sector, defying economic headwinds. The peak Travel period was July-August, when over a third of all trips occurred. A notable dip in February and March, following the holiday season, mirrors established patterns.
Moscow remains the dominant destination, pulling in more than 50 percent of internal Travel. St. Petersburg and Krasnodar Krai follow closely, fueled by historical sites, urban appeal, and coastal attractions. However, a significant portion of Travel is concentrated in just ten regions, highlighting persistent regional disparities.
The average Russian traveler spent 4.7 days on trips, with longer stays in remote areas such as Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug and Crimea. The average daily expenditure reached 1,365 rubles, with a substantial portion allocated to groceries and dining.
Interestingly, wealthier Russians are driving the trend. Those earning over 100,000 rubles monthly accounted for a larger share of travelers. This shift suggests a move towards higher-quality experiences.
The surge in domestic tourism has fueled a remarkable 1.94 trillion rubles in spending in 2025 – a 44.8% increase over four years prior. Digital payments now dominate, accounting for 68.2% of all transactions. While infrastructure improvements have played a role, the underlying driver is a change in priorities.
The focus is now on premium offerings and tailored experiences within these evolving Travel patterns. This isn't simply about weathering economic changes; it's about adapting to a fundamental shift in how Russians choose to spend their leisure time. The strength of domestic tourism isn't about grand strategies, but about the quiet resilience of everyday travel choices. The numbers speak for themselves: a nation rediscovering its own landscapes.