Essential Russian Travel Phrases

Why Learning Even a Few Russian Phrases Makes a Huge Difference

Russia is not a country where you can rely on English to get by. Outside Moscow and St Petersburg — and even within them once you venture off the tourist trail — English is rarely spoken, particularly by older generations and outside the service industry. Making the effort to learn even 50–100 Russian phrases will transform your travel experience. Russians respond warmly and with genuine surprise when foreigners make the effort to speak their language, and this goodwill opens doors that remain firmly closed to those who rely on pointing and Google Translate alone.

Russian is also a language where pronunciation matters. Because Russian has minimal pairs — pairs of words that differ by just one sound — mispronouncing a phrase can lead to genuine confusion. The pronunciation guides in this section use a simplified English approximation of each sound. They will not produce perfect Russian, but they will produce comprehensible Russian, which is all you need for travel purposes.

One cultural note before we begin: Russian communication culture tends to be more direct than English. What feels abrupt or even rude to an English speaker is often simply the normal register of Russian interaction. Do not interpret the absence of "please" or a smile at a shop counter as hostility — it is simply the style. When Russians do smile at you, it is because they mean it, which makes it all the more rewarding.

Greetings and Basic Courtesy

Introducing Yourself

Getting Around: Directions and Transport

At the Hotel

Shopping and Money

Numbers for Travellers

Health and Emergencies

Cultural Tips for Travellers

Remove your shoes when entering a Russian home — this is a firm social convention. Bring a small gift if invited to someone's house: flowers (an odd number — even numbers are for funerals), chocolates or wine are all appropriate. Never shake hands across a doorstep — it is considered bad luck; step fully inside first.

In shops and restaurants, do not be surprised by service that feels curt or impersonal. Russian service culture has changed dramatically since the Soviet era but still values efficiency over warmth. Tipping is not as institutionalised as in Western countries but is appreciated at around 10% in restaurants. Taxis have fixed negotiated or metered fares — always agree the price before getting in if using a street taxi rather than an app.

Photography around government buildings, military facilities and some metro stations is restricted or prohibited. When in doubt, ask — Можно здесь фотографировать? (Can I take photos here?) — and respect the answer.