The Most Beautiful City in Russia, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the city you think is the most beautiful!

Updated on May 7, 2024 06:18

Deciding which city holds the title of the most beautiful in Russia is a subject of frequent debate among travelers and locals alike. Each city boasts its own unique blend of architecture, culture, and natural beauty, making this a particularly engaging topic. By contributing to this ranking, users have the opportunity to highlight what they admire most about their favorite cities. The dynamic nature of this voting system allows the rankings to constantly evolve, reflecting new opinions and experiences from voters. Whether you are passionate about the historic streets of a particular city or enchanted by another's vibrant cultural scenes, your vote helps ensure that the best of Russia's urban beauty is recognized and celebrated by all.

What Is the Most Beautiful City in Russia?

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Jamie Beverly from St. Petersburg, Florida, USA · CC BY-SA 2.0

St. Petersburg

John C. Williams

St. Petersburg - known as the "Venice of the North" for its numerous canals and stunning architecture, including the iconic Hermitage Museum and the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood.
St. Petersburg is a popular city located on the Florida peninsula. It is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant arts scene, and rich history. The city offers a plethora of recreational activities, museums, and cultural events for residents and tourists alike. St. Petersburg has been developed as a hub for arts, with numerous galleries, creative spaces, and public art installations. The city also boasts a lively downtown area with various shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. With its pleasant climate and coastal location, St. Petersburg attracts visitors from around the world.

Location: Florida, USA

Population: 265,098 (2020 estimate)

Area: 137.6 square miles

County: Pinellas County

Founded: 1888
St. Petersburg in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most beautiful part of Russia
- Position 5 of 10 in Most popular cities in Florida
- Position 9 of 10 in Most beautiful city in Florida
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36
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Moscow

Russia's capital city boasts a mix of modern and historic architecture, including the famous Red Square and the colorful St. Basil's Cathedral.
Moscow, the capital city of Russia, is a vibrant metropolis known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. The city is a fascinating blend of the traditional and the modern, with its ancient cathedrals and palaces standing alongside futuristic skyscrapers. Moscow is also home to numerous parks, museums, and theaters, offering a range of recreational and entertainment options for visitors and residents alike.

Population: Approximately 12.7 million

Area: 2,561.5 square kilometers

Official Language: Russian

Time Zone: Moscow Standard Time (GMT+3)

Climate: Continental climate with cold winters and warm summers
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36
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Kazan

Kazan is located at the confluence of the Volga and Kazanka Rivers, this city features a unique blend of Tatar and Russian cultures, as seen in its striking Kazan Kremlin and Qolşärif Mosque.
Kazan is a vibrant city located in the Republic of Tatarstan, Russia. It is known for its unique blend of Russian and Tatar cultures, historical significance, and stunning architecture. With its rich history, diverse population, and breathtaking landmarks, Kazan is often referred to as the 'Third Capital' of Russia.

Population: Over 1.2 million

UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Kazan Kremlin, a historic fortress dating back to the 16th century

Religious Diversity: Home to numerous mosques, churches, and synagogues

Kul Sharif Mosque: A stunning mosque located within the Kazan Kremlin

Kazan Federal University: One of the oldest universities in Russia
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20
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Sochi

Sochi is situated on the Black Sea coast, this resort city is known for its warm climate, stunning beaches, and beautiful parks, including the Sochi Arboretum.
Sochi is a picturesque city situated on the coast of the Black Sea in southern Russia. Known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and diverse attractions, Sochi is often referred to as the 'Pearl of the Black Sea.'

Location: Sochi is located on the shores of the Black Sea in Krasnodar Krai, in southwestern Russia.

Climate: Sochi has a unique subtropical climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers, making it a popular tourist destination throughout the year.

Natural Beauty: The city is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including the Caucasus Mountains, stunning beaches, and lush vegetation.

Sporting Legacy: Sochi gained international recognition after hosting the 2014 Winter Olympics and Paralympics, showcasing its world-class sports facilities and infrastructure.

Cultural Diversity: Sochi is home to various ethnic groups, contributing to its rich cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere.
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14
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Suzdal

Suzdal is a small town with a rich history, Suzdal is home to numerous well-preserved churches, monasteries, and other historic buildings, including the UNESCO-listed Suzdal Kremlin.
Suzdal is a charming and picturesque city located in the Vladimir Oblast region of Russia. It is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, tranquil atmosphere, and stunning natural scenery. This small town offers a glimpse into Russia's rich history and is often referred to as an open-air museum due to its numerous ancient churches, monasteries, and traditional Russian wooden houses.

Population: Approximately 10,000

Location: Vladimir Oblast, Russia

UNESCO World Heritage Site: Yes

Architectural Style: Medieval Russian

Main Attractions: Suzdal Kremlin, Monastery of Saint Euthymius, Spaso-Yevfimiev Monastery
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12
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Yekaterinburg

Yekaterinburg is a modern city with a fascinating past, Yekaterinburg is known for its stunning skyline, including the iconic Church on the Blood, built on the site where the last Russian Tsar and his family were executed.
Yekaterinburg is a vibrant and culturally rich city located in the Ural Mountains of Russia. It serves as the administrative center of the Sverdlovsk Oblast and is one of the largest cities in the country. Yekaterinburg is known for its fascinating history, beautiful architecture, and economic significance. From historical landmarks to modern attractions, it offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors and residents alike.

Population: Approximately 1.5 million

Founded: 1723

Location: On the eastern side of the Ural Mountains

Climate: Humid continental climate with cold winters and warm summers

Architecture: Mix of historical buildings and modern designs
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12
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Irkutsk

Irkutsk - located near the stunning Lake Baikal, Irkutsk is known for its beautiful wooden architecture, including the historic wooden houses of the 130th Quarter.
Irkutsk is a city located in Eastern Siberia, Russia. It is known for its stunning natural landscapes, historic architecture, and rich cultural heritage. The city is situated alongside the Angara River and is surrounded by breathtaking mountains, including the nearby Lake Baikal.

Population: Approximately 617,000 people

Climate: Continental climate with long, cold winters and warm, short summers

Architecture: A blend of traditional Siberian wooden houses and grand 19th-century buildings

Cultural Heritage: Home to numerous museums, theaters, and art galleries

Lake Baikal: The world's deepest and oldest freshwater lake, located nearby
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7
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Insider, Dio-fine-art, Нелли, Belliy, Konstantin hramov · CC BY-SA 4.0

Veliky Novgorod

Veliky Novgorod is one of Russia's oldest cities, Veliky Novgorod is home to numerous well-preserved medieval buildings, including the St. Sophia Cathedral and the Yaroslav's Court.
Veliky Novgorod, also known as Novgorod the Great, is a historic city located in Northwestern Russia. It is recognized as one of the most beautiful cities in the country, renowned for its rich history and architectural treasures. The city was founded by the Varangians in the 9th century and served as a political, cultural, and economic hub of the Novgorod Republic. Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination.

Architectural Heritage: Veliky Novgorod boasts a considerable collection of well-preserved medieval architecture, including the iconic St. Sophia Cathedral.

St. Sophia Cathedral: The St. Sophia Cathedral is one of the oldest stone buildings in Russia, dating back to the 11th century. Its magnificent interior showcases impressive frescoes and ancient artifacts.

Novgorod Kremlin: The Novgorod Kremlin served as the political center of the Novgorod Republic and offers stunning views of the city.

Yaroslav's Court: Yaroslav's Court is a medieval trading district featuring a collection of merchant houses and a branch of the State Museum of Novgorod.

Millennium of Russia Monument: The Millennium of Russia Monument is a grand sculpture dedicated to key figures and important events in Russian history.
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Vladivostok

Vladivostok is a major port city on Russia's Pacific coast, Vladivostok boasts a mix of modern and historic architecture, including the beautiful Vladivostok Fortress and the iconic Golden Horn Bay.
Vladivostok is a stunning city located on the southeastern coast of Russia, overlooking the Golden Horn Bay. It serves as the administrative center of Primorsky Krai and is known for its breathtaking landscapes, unique architecture, and vibrant atmosphere.

Population: 606,561

Area: 560.47 km²

Elevation: 0-293 meters

Annual Sunshine Hours: 2,131 hours

Climate: Humid continental climate
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3
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Kaliningrad

Kaliningrad is a unique city located between Poland and Lithuania, Kaliningrad features a mix of German and Russian architecture, including the stunning Königsberg Cathedral and the beautiful Amber Museum.
Kaliningrad, formerly known as Königsberg, is a city located in the westernmost part of Russia. It is situated between Poland and Lithuania, on the Baltic Sea. The city's unique position has shaped its rich history, culture, and architecture.

Population: Approximately 490,000

Size: Square area of 139 square kilometers

Architecture: Mix of German, Soviet, and Contemporary styles

Main Attractions: Königsberg Cathedral, Brandenburg Gates, Fishing Village

Cultural Significance: Birthplace of philosopher Immanuel Kant

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Ranking factors for beautiful city

Architectural beauty

Consider the style, age, and preservation of buildings. Look for landmarks, unique structures, and notable buildings that add charm and character to the city.
Natural beauty

Assess the city's natural surroundings, such as its parks, gardens, waterfronts, and overall green space. Also consider proximity to natural attractions, such as mountains, forests, and lakes.
Cultural and historical significance

Look for cities with rich historical backgrounds, including sites of important historical events, cultural heritage significance, and unique customs and traditions.
Infrastructure and cleanliness

Consider the overall city layout, ease of transportation, and cleanliness of streets and public spaces.
Vibrancy and atmosphere

Look for lively streets, nightlife, and overall energy of the city. A beautiful city should feel alive and welcoming.
Art and culture

Consider the presence and quality of museums, galleries, theaters, and cultural events.
Diversity and tolerance

A beautiful city should be open to various cultures, religions, and ethnicities, creating a diverse and harmonious environment.
Safety and quality of living

Assess the general safety and standard of living in the city.
Urban planning and design

Consider how well the city is planned and designed, including pedestrian-friendly areas and public spaces.
Tourism amenities and attractions

Consider the number and quality of tourist attractions, as well as accommodations, dining, and shopping options for visitors.
Local cuisine and culinary scene

A beautiful city should offer a diverse and appealing culinary scene, with both traditional and modern options available.
Climate and weather

The overall climate and weather conditions can play a role in the city's beauty and appeal.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most beautiful city in Russia. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or city is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

1758 views
209 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each city once every 24 hours. The rank of each city is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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More information on most beautiful city in russia

Russia is a vast and diverse country that boasts a wealth of cultural and historical treasures. From its stunning architecture to its rich art and literature, Russia has a lot to offer visitors. One of the most popular tourist destinations in Russia is its cities, which are renowned for their beauty and charm. With so many cities to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which is the most beautiful. From the majestic spires of St. Petersburg to the colorful domes of Moscow, each city in Russia has its own unique character and charm. In this article, we will explore some of the most beautiful cities in Russia and discover what makes them so special.