Things Not To Do in Russia: 17 Travel Mistakes to Avoid as a Tourist

Russia is a country of striking contrasts, from palace-like metro stations and colorful onion-domed churches to vast Siberian landscapes and historic cities. With such a rich culture, there are important rules and expectations every traveler should be aware of.

If you’re visiting for the first time, knowing the things not to do in Russia will help you avoid cultural misunderstandings, awkward moments, and even legal issues. This guide covers the key mistakes to avoid in Russia, including what to wear in churches, how to behave in public places, what not to do in malls, and the social customs tourists often miss.

Follow these essential tips to enjoy a smoother, safer, and more respectful trip across cities like Moscow, Saint Petersburg, and beyond.

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1. Do Not Ignore Registration Requirements

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One of the less obvious things not to do in Russia is to ignore the registration rules. If you stay more than a few days, your stay may need to be registered, usually by your hotel or host. Skipping this can create problems if authorities ask to see your documents or if you face any legal or medical issues.

For most tourists staying in hotels, the property handles this automatically, but it’s still wise to ask at check-in. For apartment rentals or private stays, clarify with your host how registration will be managed. Taking a photo of your registration slip or a copy is one of the common mistakes to avoid in Russia.

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2. Do Not Discuss Sensitive Political Topics Publicly

Politics here is a subject best approached with care. One of the most important things not to do in Russia for first-timers is to loudly debate government policies, history, or international relations in public, especially with people you’ve just met.

Russians may have strong views, but not everyone is comfortable discussing them with strangers, and public conversations can be overheard or misunderstood. Instead, keep your focus on culture, food, literature, architecture, and daily life. You’ll still have deep conversations without stepping into territory that can feel tense or unsafe.

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3. Do Not Forget to Carry Your Passport or ID

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Always carry identification: Russian authorities have the right to ask for your passport or ID, especially in major cities and transport hubs. Leaving your passport in the hotel safe and wandering around without ID are among the things to avoid in Russia as a tourist.

Keep your passport, migration card (if issued), and hotel card together in a secure pouch or money belt. You can also keep a photocopy or digital scan as backup, but the original is often essential when requested.

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4. Do Not Dress Inappropriately for Churches and Monasteries

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When thinking about what not to wear in Russia, religious sites deserve special attention. Russian Orthodox churches and monasteries are sacred spaces, and dress codes are taken seriously.

Avoid sleeveless tops, very short skirts or shorts, and low-cut clothing. Women may be asked to cover their heads with a scarf, while men should remove hats. Some churches even provide scarves or wraps at the entrance. Ignoring these expectations is one of the things that offend locals in Russia, especially older generations. Modest, neat clothing will always help you blend in and show respect.

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5. Do Not Assume Everyone Speaks English

Russia is modern and connected, but English is not universal. One of the most common mistakes to avoid in Russia is speaking English too quickly, expecting everyone to understand your accent, and becoming frustrated when they don’t.

Learning a few basic Russian phrases goes a long way:

• Hello: Zdravstvuyte
• Thank you: Spasibo
• Please: Pozhaluysta
• Excuse me / Sorry: Izvinite

Having your hotel address written in Cyrillic, saving metro stops in Russian, and using translation apps can help you avoid travel mistakes in Russia to avoid confusion, especially late at night or outside touristy centers.

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6. Do Not Smile Excessively at Strangers

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In many countries, smiling at everyone is seen as friendly. In Russia, constant smiling without context can be confusing, or even interpreted as insincere. This is one of the more subtle things not to do in Russia for first-timers.

Smiles are usually reserved for friends, family, and genuine moments. A neutral but polite expression is perfectly normal in shops, metro stations, and official buildings. Don’t worry, this isn’t coldness, just a different social norm.

7. Do Not Sit on the Ground in Public Spaces

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Sitting on the floor of train stations, on pavements, or on steps outside buildings is often seen as inappropriate. Locals may view it as unclean or childish. It’s one of those quiet things to avoid in Russia as a tourist if you want to be perceived as respectful.

Use benches, café seating, or park chairs whenever possible. In metro stations, especially, sitting on the ground can attract security attention and is generally frowned upon.

8. Do Not Drink Alcohol in the Wrong Places

Alcohol is part of social life in Russia, but there are rules. Drinking in certain public places,, such as streets, playgrounds, or near schools,, is restricted and may result in fines. Open containers can draw unwanted attention.

To avoid these travel mistakes in Russia, enjoy your drinks in licensed venues like bars, restaurants, and cafés, or in your hotel room. If you buy alcohol from shops, check the local rules and opening hours, as late-night sales can be limited.

9. Do Not Mishandle Vodka Etiquette

Vodka is more than just a beverage; it can be part of a social ritual. One of the cultural things not to do in Russia is to treat vodka shots like a party stunt.

If you’re offered vodka in a home or at a celebration:

• Wait for a toast before drinking.
• Drink the shot in one smooth go, not sipped like wine.
• Avoid diluting it with sugary drinks unless your host suggests it.

You don’t need to overdrink. Politely declining after a few rounds is acceptable, but doing so with respect and a smile keeps the atmosphere warm.

10. Do Not Bring Up Stereotypes or Jokes About Russia

Another thing that offends locals in Russia is relying on clichés from movies, old Cold War jokes, or exaggerated stereotypes about the country. Even if you mean it playfully, it can sound dismissive of Russian history and daily realities.

Instead, show curiosity about Russian literature, cinema, music, and food. Talk about places you’re excited to visit. Locals often appreciate genuine interest far more than tired jokes.

11. Do Not Forget to Respect Personal Space Indoors

Public spaces like metro trains may get crowded, but in smaller indoor environments such as lifts, queues, offices, or homes, Russians value a certain distance. Standing very close, touching without reason, or leaning over someone can feel intrusive.

Give people space whenever possible, especially in supermarket queues, at museum ticket counters, and at banks. Observing how locals line up and mimic their spacing is a simple way to avoid small but noticeable things not to do in Russia.

12. Do Not Use Loud Voices on Public Transport

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Keep conversations soft: On metros, buses, and trams, loud laughter, phone calls on speaker, or music without headphones stand out immediately. Maintaining a calm voice is part of everyday courtesy, especially during rush hours.

This is one of the common mistakes to avoid in Russia, especially if you’re traveling in a group. Respecting shared spaces makes your ride more pleasant and appreciated by those around you.

13. Do Not Take Photos Where It’s Prohibited

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Russia has many breathtaking spots, but not all can be photographed freely. Government buildings, some bridges, military areas, and certain metro stations may limit or forbid photography. In museums, flash may be banned, or photos may not be allowed at all.

Ignoring “No Photo” signs is one of the more serious things not to do in Russia as a tourist. Always check signage or ask staff. When photographing people, especially in rural areas or markets, asking permission first is both polite and wise.

14. Do Not Ignore Local Customs in Russian Homes

If you’re invited to someone’s home, consider it an absolute honor and a moment where etiquette matters.

• Remove your shoes at the entrance; hosts usually offer slippers.
• Bring a small gift: sweets, flowers (avoid yellow or carnations for social visits), or a souvenir from your country.
• Wait to be seated at the table and follow your host’s lead.

Not following these small courtesies can be one of the quiet things that offend locals in Russia, even if they don’t say so directly.

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15. Do Not Haggle Aggressively Where Prices Are Fixed

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In big cities, many shops, cafes, and even markets have fixed prices. While you might negotiate a little at souvenir stalls or with independent drivers, haggling aggressively everywhere is one of the travel mistakes in Russia to avoid.

If you’re unsure whether bargaining is acceptable, observe locals or ask gently if a discount is possible. If the answer is no, accept it graciously and decide whether to buy or move on.

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16. Do Not Assume Malls and Modern Spaces Are Casual Free-for-Alls

What not to do in Russia malls: Russia’s malls are sleek, modern, and often very secure. Running around, filming strangers without consent, lying on seating areas, or having loud group gatherings can attract security attention.

Dress neatly, speak at a moderate volume, and respect queues in food courts and restrooms. Russia’s malls may look like those elsewhere, but treating them casually without awareness of local norms is one of the things to avoid in Russia as a tourist.

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17. Do Not Rely Only on Cash or Only on Cards

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Russia’s payment landscape is varied. In major cities, cards are widely accepted in malls, restaurants, and hotels; in small towns, markets, or older cafés, cash is often easier to use.

Relying solely on one method can become frustrating, especially if your bank card has international restrictions. Keep a mix of cash and card options ready, and let your bank know your travel dates. While this isn’t one of the cultural things not to do in Russia, it’s a very practical one to avoid stress.

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FAQs

What are the laws in Russia for tourists?

Tourists in Russia must follow local laws, including rules around registration, public behavior, alcohol consumption, and photography restrictions near strategic locations. Some of the most important things not to do in Russia include ignoring registration requirements, taking photos where it’s prohibited, and drinking alcohol in restricted public areas. Staying aware of local rules helps you avoid fines or complications.

Is it ok to wear shorts in Russia?

Yes, you can wear shorts in many casual settings during the warmer months, especially in parks and tourist areas. However, when considering what not to wear in Russia, avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, and very revealing outfits when visiting churches, monasteries, or more formal venues. Dressing modestly in these places shows respect for local customs.

Can unmarried couples go on holiday to Russia?

Unmarried couples can travel together and share hotel rooms in Russia without any legal problems. Hotels are generally used by international guests. Just remember that very overt public displays of affection can feel uncomfortable for some locals, especially in more traditional areas.

Is it safe to visit Russia as a solo traveler?

Safety experiences can vary by city and region, but many travelers find that central areas of big cities feel safe when you stay aware of your surroundings. Avoid poorly lit areas at night, keep your valuables secure, and follow the main things not to do in Russia, such as not showing large amounts of cash, not arguing with strangers, and not using unmarked taxis or untrusted apps.

What is the best month to go to Russia?

Spring (May–June) and early autumn (September) are popular for comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery. Winter offers magical snowy landscapes and New Year celebrations, but it can be very cold, especially in northern regions. Plan your wardrobe carefully so you don’t discover the hard way what not to wear in Russia’s winter weather.

Can two male friends share a hotel room in Russia?

Yes, two male friends can share a hotel room without any issues. Most hotels are accustomed to business travelers, friends, and families sharing rooms in different arrangements. Booking a twin room with separate beds is straightforward and common.

What is not allowed in Russia as a tourist?

Some key things not to do in Russia include: drinking alcohol in restricted public places, ignoring registration rules, photographing sensitive locations, and displaying disrespect in religious sites. Other things to avoid in Russia as a tourist include vandalism, littering, and any behavior that disturbs public order.

What are the strict rules in Russia?

Russia has strict laws around drugs, public order, and certain forms of protest or unauthorized gatherings. There are also specific rules about registration, documentation, and photography near government or military sites. Understanding these, along with the social things not to do in Russia for first-timers, will help you avoid legal issues and enjoy your trip with peace of mind.