Is It Dangerous to Travel to Russia in 2025? My Personal Experience

contact076694
May 30
5 min read

Updated: May 31

Since 2022, the word “Russia” has often been linked to tension, sanctions, and fear… but beyond the scary headlines, the reality on the ground can be very different.

If you're asking yourself “Is it dangerous to travel to Russia in 2025?”, let me answer right away: no, it’s not dangerous, as long as you’re well-informed and use common sense.

I often traveled to Russia alone as a Westerner man and I’m going to tell you exactly how it went with no exaggeration.

Why does everyone think it’s dangerous?

Let’s be honest: when you search “travel to Russia” on Google or YouTube, you’ll find tons of alarmist messages. Between the war in Ukraine, sanctions, Western media, and flight restrictions, it sounds like Russia has become some kind of frozen North Korea that nobody should step foot in.

And yet… a lot of foreign travelers still go there every month, whether for work, tourism, or personal reasons. Some even live there long-term.

So why this huge gap between what we think and what actually happens? Because geopolitical tension doesn’t reflect everyday life in a country. And most people simply don’t have first-hand stories. I took the leap and I don’t regret it for one second.

The real questions you should ask

Before traveling to Russia in 2025, you need to ask yourself the right questions. And believe me, I asked them too:

Can I legally enter the country?
Will I be safe in the streets?
Could I have issues with the police or authorities?
Will I be treated differently as a foreigner?
Will I still have access to the internet, my apps, and payment methods?
And most importantly: is it really worth the trouble?

Let me walk you through each of these.

1. Can you still travel to Russia as a foreigner?

Yes. While the process might vary depending on your nationality, many foreign travelers are still entering Russia in 2025, especially with a tourist or private visa. If you hold a European or Swiss passport like I do, it’s absolutely doable.

The easiest way is to fly through countries like Turkey (what I recommend), Serbia, Dubai, or Armenia. From there, several flights head to Moscow or St. Petersburg every day. The atmosphere at the airport is calm and normal and you’ll see other foreigners making the same journey.

2. Is Russia actually dangerous on the ground?

Not at all. Once I landed, the first thing I felt was how normal everything was. People go to work, eat at restaurants, ride the bus, laugh, talk… There’s no visible tension, no soldiers in the streets, no constant ID checks. You’re a visitor, not a threat.

Of course, like in any country, avoid sketchy areas at night and stay alert if you’re alone at 3 a.m., but I honestly felt way safer in Moscow than in Paris or Brussels. No aggressive vibes, no catcalling, no constant fear. Even on crowded metros, people are calm and respectful.

The truth is, being Western doesn't put you in danger in Russia. Most Russians make a clear distinction between governments and individuals. You’ll often be greeted with curiosity, and sometimes even kindness.

3. What about the police? Could you get into trouble?

Russian police are present, but not intrusive at all when it comes to foreigners. I was never randomly checked. As long as you follow the rules : no drugs, no political provocations, no offensive behavior and you’ll be fine.

If they do ask for ID (passport with visa), just stay polite and cooperative. It’s usually over in 30 seconds, like a metro ticket check. Yes, Russia is a country with strict rules, but tourists are not treated as enemies.

4. Will I be seen differently as a foreigner?

Actually, you’ll often be very well received. I met amazing people, especially in big cities. Russians might seem a bit cold at first, but once you start talking, they’re warm and welcoming. And if you try to say a few words in Russian, even better.

Some will be surprised you came all the way here, others just curious to hear your opinion. But I never felt any hostility. The image that the West gives of Russia does not reflect the behavior of the people.

5. Technical stuff: Internet, payments, apps

Here’s what you need to know:

Foreign bank cards don’t work everywhere, since Visa and Mastercard are suspended. Solution? Bring cash (euros or dollars) and exchange it locally, or get a temporary Russian card with local help.
Internet works perfectly.
Messaging apps: Telegram is king here. WhatsApp also works. Some apps like Instagram or Facebook are blocked, but just use a VPN to access them.
Google Maps, Gmail, YouTube: fully functional.

6. Is it really worth it to travel to Russia in 2025?

Absolutely. If you’re looking for a unique experience, far from clichés, and want to discover a fascinating country, Russia is a fantastic destination. Moscow is one of Europe’s most impressive capitals, with a mix of tradition and modernity. St. Petersburg is a cultural gem. And there are hidden treasures like Kazan, Sochi, or even Vladivostok.

But more than the places, it’s the people you’ll remember. I had truly touching conversations and experiences there full of honesty, curiosity, and kindness. The emotional depth of human connection in Russia is hard to find elsewhere.

What I learned from my trips

Fear is often built from a distance.
The reality on the ground is calm and welcoming.
Traveling to Russia now is stepping off the beaten path.
You can go solo, without speaking fluent Russian, and still be fine.
Russian women are often kind, curious, and open to meaningful conversations.

If you want to avoid mass tourism, live something intense and authentic, and maybe even make genuine connections : Russia is absolutely worth it, even in 2025.

Final answer: No, Russia isn’t dangerous in 2025 if you’re prepared

So, is it dangerous to travel to Russia this year? No, as long as you know what you’re doing. It’s like crossing a fragile bridge: with the right shoes, a clear plan, and a bit of confidence, you can go far and live something truly rare.

My advice? Do your homework, prepare well, and go. You’ll be surprised by how human, rich, and moving your experience can be.

And if you want to know exactly how to travel to Russia despite sanctions, how to meet genuine Russian women, and how to avoid the classic traps, I’ve put all my personal experience into a practical, easy-to-follow E-Book.

👉 Check out my full guide on how to travel and meet a woman in Russia

Believe me, you won’t regret stepping beyond the headlines.