Russian tourism in freefall as even St. Petersburg loses visitors
St. Petersburg in Russia (Photo: Getty Images)
Domestic tourism in Russia is losing momentum after a brief period of growth in 2023–2024 — travelers are increasingly choosing not to take trips within the country, and no one is traveling even to the famous St. Petersburg, according to Ukraine's Foreign Intelligence Service.
Domestic tourism in Russia is showing clear signs of slowing and losing its appeal, according to an analysis.
After a short period of growth in 2023–2024, the growth rate of tourist trips within Russia has sharply declined: in 2025, they fell to minimal levels, and for 2026, only symbolic growth is expected.
This is particularly evident in the case of St. Petersburg — one of the country's main tourist centers. Demand for city trips is declining, and tourists are increasingly choosing other destinations or forgoing domestic travel altogether.
Analysts note several problems hindering the sector's development: high prices, weak infrastructure, low service levels, and an outdated tourism product that fails to meet modern traveler expectations.
As a result, even those who still travel within Russia are forced to save money, cut costs, and often take only one trip per year, which further pressures the tourism market.
Experts have also noted that the decline in the domestic tourism sector is partly linked to rising travel costs and low demand, which could lead to further difficulties for the Russian tourism industry if the economic situation worsens.
As is known, Russia is doing everything to keep Russians inside its borders, especially since it needs many men to replenish the ranks of the military in the so-called "SVO" (Special Military Operation). In this regard, Russian officials recently discussed the possibility of introducing fees on citizens traveling abroad.
It was also reported that the Russian Foreign Ministry discouraged its citizens from traveling to Germany, citing an unfavorable situation there for Russians.
