Where to go in March in Russia
Winter is about to end, but there are no plans for spring yet. Although, it seems like just recently the phone was buzzing with New Year's greetings and old jokes. It's time to put away warm clothes and get ready for a new season. But there are no travel ideas at all, and tickets abroad are already sold out…
Don't worry! In fact, there are many more places to go in March in Russia than you might think. They are in no way inferior to foreign destinations, and some of them can be much cheaper. In short, it's beautiful. Here's our list of recommendations.
Altai
If you want to relax affordably, Altai in March is an excellent option. At the beginning of the month, temperatures stay between –15 and –10 degrees Celsius, rising to +5 by the end. In any case, you can't do without warm clothes here.
By the way, if you're a fan of extreme recreation, we recommend visiting the popular ski resorts — “Belokurikha”, “Manzherok”, or “Nikolskoye”. All slopes there are equipped for both beginners and more experienced skiers and snowboarders. Sometimes you can even sign up for lessons with professionals to learn the basics and try your hand at something new. However, you'll have to hurry, as the season ends by late March. But this is not a reason to postpone your trip, but rather an opportunity to arrange an unforgettable journey.
Another interesting must-visit place is the famous Katun River, which changes its color to turquoise during the cold season. What if you go to Altai at the very beginning of spring and witness such an unusual natural phenomenon? Your friends will definitely be envious when they see your photos from there.
How to get there
Travel to Altaidoes not require large expenses. Flights to Gorno-Altaysk can be found within 10,000 rubles (one way). By train, it's twice cheaper, though you'll have to travel for two whole days. In short, it's not difficult to get there, and not as expensive as it seemed. All in all, it's great!
Kola Peninsula
The Kola Peninsula can truly be called a unique place. It has gathered all the most interesting things — from the filming location of the movie about the giant sea serpent Leviathan to ski resorts. In early spring, it's cool here: from –10 to –1 degrees Celsius. Not as cold as in winter, but a basic scarf, warm sweater, and hat won't be superfluous.
Oh, and a pleasant bonus for your spring vacation — the famous Aurora Borealis, in other words, the Northern Lights. You can see it in Teriberka or within the Murmansk region from December to March. You'll have to drive outside populated areas and dress warmly, and then it's a simple matter of observing and waiting. It's best to hunt for the celestial glow as part of a tour. Excursions usually last several days. This time is enough not only for observing the aurora but also for interesting lectures about the peninsula's nature. And alone, you might get lost or miss the luminescence in the sky entirely, so it's best to play it safe.
In short, the Kola Peninsula is a good place to go in March in Russia affordably, and also get unusual experiences.
How to get there
It's simple: you need to fly to Murmansk . Fortunately, all airline discounts are displayed on our website. So instead of the usual 10,000 rubles one way, you can find the same ticket, but twice cheaper. Here's a life hack, use it!
Baikal
Thanks to the fact that Baikal is not the most common option for a March vacation in Russia, there are noticeably fewer tourists here. This means you can forget about queues, and it will be quiet and peaceful all around. Therefore, we recommend going here in early spring. The ice has not yet melted by this time, and you can engage in popular activities: ice skating or trying your hand at ice golf (yes, it exists).
The air temperature stays in the range of –10 to –1 degrees Celsius. However, if you happen to get cold, there are guesthouses nearby where you can warm up or rent equipment.
Speaking of Baikal, one cannot fail to mention Olkhon Island. Coming here in summer, people have a great time at festivals, and in winter they prefer to admire the lake from cozy houses. By the way, it's very romantic that Baikal is called the "heart of Siberia," and Olkhon is the "heart of Baikal."
How to get there
The fastest way is, as always, by plane. A great option would be to take tickets to Irkutsk and Ulan-Ude. After that, you'll have to travel by train.
Karelia
Although spring is already starting on the calendar, it won't arrive in Karelia for at least another month. Temperatures at this time range from –10 to –7 degrees Celsius, and there's snow on the roads. In short, it's the last chance to go dog sledding or glide across the ice on skates.
Probably the best option in Karelia, where you can go in March, is the Ruskeala Mountain Park. The nature there is mesmerizing — from turquoise rivers to marble caves, which can only be accessed by boat. In the park, by the way, they turn on illumination and organize excursions. In short, it's both educational and beautiful. Perfect for social media!
We also recommend visiting Lake Yanisyarvi. Firstly, it was formed after a meteorite fall, and secondly, it is located in one of Russia's oldest craters. Moreover, this location is often included in popular tourist routes. By the way, at the "Black Rocks" recreation center (where Lake Yanisyarvi is located), excursions to the local zoo are conducted, and nearby they teach how to ride snowmobiles.
How to get there
The only airport in Karelia is in Petrozavodsk (planes fly there ). Ticket prices are pleasant: 5,000 rubles one way. Everyone is happy: you and your wallet. Well, from the city to all significant places, you can get by bus or taxi.
Mineralnye Vody
Agree, it's not always about offering active options for where to go on vacation in Russia in March. For example, for those who want to be a little lazy, i.e., relax peacefully, we recommend heading to the Caucasus, to Mineralnye Vody. The region welcomes guests with mild weather and offers relaxation, drinking mineral water in the neighboring Pyatigorsk, Essentuki, Kislovodsk, and Zheleznovodsk. Yes, just come and don't circle around attractions, but relax and forget about all problems in a spa or sauna. In general, anyone can visit any of the local resorts. It's not necessary to have a doctor's note; it's enough to consult with medical staff on site.
By the way, one of Pyatigorsk's main attractions is the cable car on Mount Mashuk. It leads to the underground Lake Proval — another tourist spot.
How to get there
You can get to Mineralnye Vody by train. However, we advise checking flights for this destination . The flight takes about three to four hours, but then it's chill and relax!
Elbrus Region
And finally, the Elbrus Region. It will appeal to everyone who doesn't like to just relax, but rather actively spends any vacation. Here are the famous ski resorts "Elbrus" and "Cheget". The slopes here are equipped for beginners and professionals, and lessons for novices are held on site.
In addition to popular tourist locations, horseback riding and hiking tours are offered through the picturesque places of the Elbrus Region. Fortunately, the weather at this time doesn't bother tourists: temperatures rarely drop below –3 degrees Celsius (except at night) and it's almost always sunny.
How to get there
The nearest airports are in Nalchik and Mineralnye Vody, and from there all travelers get around by buses (561 A and 563 A for those departing from Minvody) or taxi.
The country is vast, so be prepared for equally grand impressions. By the way, if after your March trips your heart starts craving something new again, we recommend thinking about where to go to the sea in Russia. Summer is very close, so it's time to get ready.
We wish you unforgettable March adventures!
