The Most Beautiful Part of Russia, Ranked

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

Updated on May 10, 2024 06:19

As vast and varied as Russia is, identifying its most beautiful spot can be a challenging yet intriguing task. Each region holds its unique blend of natural beauty, historic architecture, and cultural richness, drawing varied reactions and opinions from all who visit. The collective input on what constitutes the 'most beautiful' can provide a clearer picture, suited to a wider audience. This interactive ranking system allows users to cast their votes for what they believe to be the pinnacle of beauty in Russia. By participating, users not only contribute to a broader consensus but also gain insight into lesser-known locales that might otherwise go unnoticed. Engage in this community-driven experience and see how diverse preferences shape the evolving landscape of Russia's praised destinations.

What Is the Most Beautiful Part of Russia?

1

45
votes
Jason Rogers · CC BY 2.0

Lake Baikal

The world's deepest and oldest lake, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.
Lake Baikal is the oldest and deepest freshwater lake in the world, located in southern Siberia, Russia. Known as the 'Pearl of Siberia,' it is an extraordinary natural wonder with stunning beauty and ecological significance.

Location: Southern Siberia, Russia

Age: Approximately 25 million years

Depth: Maximum depth of 1,642 meters

Size: Surface area of 31,722 square kilometers

Volume: Estimated volume of 23,615 cubic kilometers
Lake Baikal in other rankings
- Position 8 of 10 in Most beautiful body of water in the world
2

30
votes
Jamie Beverly from St. Petersburg, Florida, USA · CC BY-SA 2.0

St. Petersburg

John C. Williams

Known as the Venice of the North, this city boasts stunning architecture, museums, and canals.
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 1 of 10 in Most beautiful city in Russia
- Position 5 of 10 in Most popular cities in Florida
- Position 9 of 10 in Most beautiful city in Florida
3

32
votes
Jeff Schmaltz · Public domain

Kamchatka Peninsula

A remote and rugged region with volcanoes, hot springs, and untouched wilderness.
The Kamchatka Peninsula is a stunning and diverse region located in the far east of Russia. It is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, including towering volcanoes, pristine lakes, lush forests, and abundant wildlife. With its unique landscape and remote location, Kamchatka is often described as a true wilderness paradise, offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience untouched nature at its finest.

Size: 472,300 square kilometers

Geography: Volcanoes, mountains, rivers, lakes, hot springs

Volcanoes: There are 160 volcanoes, 29 of which are active

Valley of Geysers: Home to the second-largest concentration of geysers in the world

Flora and Fauna: Diverse ecosystems, rare plant species, and wildlife such as bears, eagles, salmon, and seals
Kamchatka Peninsula in other rankings
- Position 7 of 10 in Most popular peninsula
4

9
votes
Sochi

Located on the Black Sea, this resort city is surrounded by mountains and has a subtropical climate.
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.
5

17
votes
Golden Ring

Yuri Bychkov

A historic region with picturesque towns and architecture dating back to medieval times.
The Golden Ring is a historic and picturesque route located in the heart of Russia. It consists of a collection of ancient cities and towns that hold immense cultural and architectural significance. The route takes travelers through a journey back in time, offering a glimpse into Russia's rich history and heritage.

Length: Approximately 1,000 kilometers

Number of cities and towns: Usually 8-10

Age: Many of the cities date back to the 12th-18th centuries

Architecture: Features stunning examples of medieval Russian architecture

Churches and Monasteries: Numerous religious buildings and monastic complexes are present
6

10
votes
AleksandrBorisov · CC BY-SA 4.0

Kizhi Island

Kizhi Museum-Reserve

Home to an open-air museum with traditional wooden houses and churches.
Kizhi Island is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Lake Onega, Karelia, Russia. It is famous for its open-air museum featuring a collection of remarkable wooden structures, including the breathtaking Church of the Transfiguration. The island is known for its scenic beauty, captivating visitors with its picturesque landscapes.

Location: Lake Onega, Karelia, Russia

Designation: UNESCO World Heritage site

Architectural Style: Russian wooden architecture

Main Attraction: Church of the Transfiguration

Construction Period: Late 17th century
7

13
votes
Bourrichon - fr:Bourrichon) · CC BY-SA 4.0

Caucasus Mountains

A stunning mountain range with unique flora and fauna, including the endangered Caucasian leopard.
The Caucasus Mountains is a majestic mountain range located between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea, stretching over 1,100 kilometers across Russia, Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan. It is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and diverse landscapes.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Ushguli in Georgia and the Western Caucasus

Highest peak: Mount Elbrus (5,642 meters)

Range type: Fold mountain range

Greatest width: 190 kilometers

Ecological significance: A biodiversity hotspot with numerous endemic plant and animal species
8

4
votes
Kazan

A city on the banks of the Volga River with a mix of Tatar and Russian culture and architecture.
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
9

11
votes
Виктория Шерина · CC BY-SA 4.0

Olkhon Island

The largest island on Lake Baikal, with stunning landscapes and a spiritual significance for the indigenous Buryat people.
Olkhon Island is a scenic gem located in the middle of Lake Baikal in Eastern Siberia, Russia. It is the largest and most famous island on Lake Baikal, and is renowned for its untouched natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and spiritual significance.

Location: Olkhon Island is situated in the middle of Lake Baikal, the deepest and oldest freshwater lake in the world, in Eastern Siberia, Russia.

Size: Olkhon Island spans approximately 730 square kilometers and has a dramatic coastline stretching over 200 kilometers.

Geography: The island features a diverse landscape, including sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, lush forests, and vast steppes.

Climate: Olkhon Island experiences a continental climate with harsh winters and mild summers. It is known for its clear skies, making it an ideal location for stargazing.

Flora and Fauna: The island is home to a wide array of plant and animal species, including unique and endemic plants, various bird species, and the critically endangered Baikal seal.
10

5
votes
Stefan Kühn · CC BY-SA 3.0

Altai Mountains

A mountain range with diverse landscapes including glaciers, lakes, and valleys, and home to several ethnic groups with unique cultures.
The Altai Mountains are a stunning mountain range located in southern Siberia, Russia. Known for their breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity, they are considered one of the most beautiful regions in the country.

Location: The Altai Mountains are primarily located in the Altai Republic, Altai Krai, and the neighboring countries of Kazakhstan, Mongolia, and China.

Mountain Range: The Altai Mountains are a vast mountain range spanning approximately 1,200 kilometers.

Peaks: They are characterized by towering peaks, with the highest point being Mount Belukha at 4,506 meters (14,783 feet).

UNESCO World Heritage Site: A part of the Altai Mountains, the Golden Mountains of Altai, is inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its exceptional natural value.

Scenic Landscapes: The Altai Mountains feature diverse and captivating landscapes, including snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, meandering rivers, crystal-clear lakes, and lush forests.

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Ranking factors for beautiful part

Natural beauty

Consider the scenic landscapes, diverse ecosystems, forests, mountains, rivers, lakes, and unique natural formations that make the area stand out in terms of natural appeal.
Cultural and historical significance

Take note of any historically or culturally important sites, such as UNESCO World Heritage sites, ancient towns, historical monuments, and architectural marvels that contribute to the region's overall beauty.
Climate and weather

Evaluate the region's climate, including its temperature ranges, sunshine, precipitation, and overall comfort for tourists and locals.
Tourist attractions

Assess the variety and quality of tourist attractions available in the area, such as museums, parks, gardens, and local events that add to the region's appeal.
Accessibility

Consider how easy it is to reach the destination, including transportation options and infrastructure.
Local cuisine and culinary experiences

Gastronomy plays a significant role in a region's appeal, so consider the local food scene and traditional dishes from the area.
Accommodation options

Check whether the area has a range of lodging options, including hotels, guesthouses, and hostels, to accommodate various budgets and preferences.
Safety and cleanliness

A safe and clean environment adds to the attractiveness of a location. Research the crime rate, cleanliness of public spaces, and overall safety measures taken by the local government.
Outdoor activities and recreational opportunities

Gauge the availability of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, skiing, and watersports that visitors can enjoy in the area.
Local culture and traditions

The local customs, art, music, and festivals are essential factors that contribute to the overall beauty and appeal of any region. Understanding the local community's traditions can provide unique insights and experiences for tourists.

About this ranking

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

Statistics

1594 views
175 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

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

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More information on most beautiful part of russia

Russia is a vast country with a rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural landscapes. From the snow-capped peaks of the Caucasus Mountains to the sparkling waters of Lake Baikal, Russia is home to some of the most beautiful sights in the world. The country's diverse regions boast a range of architectural styles, artistic traditions, and natural wonders that make it a fascinating destination for travelers and poll enthusiasts alike. In this article, we will explore some of the most beautiful parts of Russia as voted on by our community of StrawPoll users. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or simply curious about this fascinating country, our list is sure to inspire your next adventure.