Safety and Local Rules in Russia: Common-Sense Guide

Russia is a very large country, and a few common-sense habits help most visitors have a calm, trouble-free trip. This page covers everyday safety, ways to avoid common tourist scams, respect for local laws and customs, and the emergency details to look up before you go. Rules and conditions can change, so confirm everything with the official source and your own government's travel advice.

Everyday common-sense safety

Take the same care as you would in any large country. Keep your phone, wallet and passport in a secure place, and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas such as stations, markets and tourist sights.

Plan your evenings, and tell someone you trust where you are going. If something feels uncomfortable, it is usually best to leave the situation and go to a busy, well-lit place.

• Keep valuables close and out of sight.
• Be careful with bags in crowded places and on public transport.
• Charge your phone and save your hotel address offline.
• Take care when walking alone late at night.

Avoid common tourist scams

Tourist areas in many countries attract people who try to sell you something or ask for money. Be polite but firm, and do not feel pressured to hand over money or documents to someone who approaches you.

Use official taxis and agree how the fare will be calculated before you set off. Check the price on any menu or bill, and compare an exchange rate before you agree to it.

• Use official taxis, and agree the fare first.
• Check menus, bills and exchange rates before you pay.
• Be cautious with unexpected offers from strangers.
• Do not give your passport or card to people you do not know.

Respect local laws and customs

Visitors are expected to follow local laws, and it helps to read about them before you travel. Check your own government's travel advice and the official sources of the country for information on rules that affect visitors, including those on photography, public behavior and carrying documents.

Dress and behave respectfully, especially in churches, convents and memorials, where visitors often cover their shoulders and keep their voices low. If you are not sure, ask a member of staff.

• Read your government's travel advice on local laws.
• Ask before you photograph people, and check signs at sensitive sites.
• Dress modestly in churches and convents.
• Keep your voice and behavior calm in public places.

Emergency numbers, documents and getting help

Look up the official emergency numbers for the country before you travel, and save them in your phone. Your embassy or consulate can help if you lose your passport or need advice, so note its address and phone number as well.

Keep copies of your passport, insurance and booking details separate from the originals, and save a digital backup. If you need help, contact the emergency services or your embassy, and follow the instructions of the officials.

• Look up the official emergency numbers and save them.
• Note the address and phone number of your embassy or consulate.
• Keep copies of your passport and insurance separately.
• Share your itinerary with someone at home.

Quick checklist

• Read your government's travel advice before you go
• Look up the official emergency numbers and save them
• Save your embassy or consulate details
• Keep copies and digital backups of your documents
• Use official taxis and agree the fare first
• Keep valuables close in crowded places
• Dress and behave respectfully at religious sites

Official sources

• UK government foreign travel advice
• US Department of State travel information

Frequently asked questions

Is Russia safe for tourists?

Most visitors use the same care as in any large country. Keep valuables secure, use official taxis and check your government's travel advice, since conditions can change and can differ by region.

What emergency numbers should I know?

Look up the official emergency numbers before you travel and save them in your phone. Your embassy or consulate can also confirm them and explain how to get help.

How can I avoid scams?

Be cautious with unexpected offers, use official taxis and check prices before you pay. Do not hand over documents or cards to strangers, and ask staff or your hotel if you are unsure.

Do I need to carry my passport?

Check the current rules for visitors with the official source, since requirements can change. Many visitors keep the passport safe and carry a copy, but confirm what applies to you.

These are general tips. Rules and conditions depend on your situation and can change: please confirm all details with the official source before you travel.