Top 10 Destinations For Russian Tourists In 2025: Where They Travel And Why

Top 10 destinations for Russian tourists reflect a significant shift in outbound flows following the war in Ukraine and the resulting sanctions. While European countries remain largely closed to this market due to visa restrictions and airspace bans, Russian demand for international travel continues to grow. Instead of Europe, Russian holidaymakers are now choosing destinations that combine visa-free access, reliable flight connectivity, competitive pricing, and political neutrality. This redirection is reshaping global tourism flows, with new winners emerging across the Middle East and Asia.

Why Russian travelers are redirecting their journeys

The key factors influencing Russian outbound tourism include simplified visa policies, robust charter and scheduled airline connections, and attractive all-inclusive offerings. Turkey and Egypt have consolidated their position as the largest volume markets thanks to their affordability and accessibility, while the United Arab Emirates and Asian countries such as China, Thailand, and Vietnam are rapidly climbing the rankings due to flexible entry regulations and strong destination marketing.

The top 10 destinations in detail

Based on industry reports, airline booking data, and national tourism statistics, the following list represents the current Top 10 destinations for Russian tourists in 2025:

1. Turkey – Antalyа, Bodrum, Dalaman, Izmir and Istanbul remain dominant, with millions of Russian arrivals every year supported by charter and scheduled capacity.

2. Egypt – Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh are leading beach resorts, with packages heavily marketed through Russian tour operators.

3. United Arab Emirates – Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah attract both leisure and shopping travelers, serving also as a transit hub.

4. China – Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Hainan (Sanya) are growing strongly after the introduction of visa-free entry for Russian citizens.

5. Thailand – Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Krabi, Koh Samui and Chiang Mai form a diversified leisure portfolio popular among Russian families and long-stay tourists.

6. Vietnam – Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, Da Nang, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are rising rapidly, positioning Vietnam as a strong alternative to Thailand.

7. Abkhazia – Sukhumi and the Black Sea coast continue to receive large flows due to geographic proximity and visa-free entry.

8. Maldives – Male and the resort islands remain favored by affluent Russians seeking exclusive sun-and-sea holidays.

9. Sri Lanka – Colombo, Negombo, Bentota, Galle, Kandy and Nuwara Eliya offer a blend of culture and leisure with appealing price-value dynamics.

10. Morocco – Marrakech, Casablanca, Agadir and Fez are gaining attention thanks to expanded flight options and cultural variety.

Strategic implications for the travel trade

For airlines, tour operators, and hospitality stakeholders, the Top 10 destinations for Russian tourists underline the importance of developing tailored services. Russian-speaking staff, ruble-compatible payment methods, and marketing campaigns via Russian digital channels remain critical for market penetration. In addition, destinations offering competitive airfares and simplified visa processes will continue to capture a disproportionate share of demand.

This redirection also emphasizes the growing significance of Asia-Pacific markets in winter season planning. Vietnam and Thailand, supported by improved connectivity, are forecast to climb further, while China’s new visa policy could make it one of the top three destinations by volume.

The article Top 10 destinations for Russian tourists in 2025: where they travel and why first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.