The Moscow City Tourism Committee is committed to boosting tourism and hospitality in the capital, positioning it as a prime destination for international travelers, especially those from India.
To further entice Indian visitors, on August 31st, the committee, in collaboration with Aeroflot, launched the “Russian Holidays: From the Capital of Russia to the Capital of Siberia” initiative. This project allows Indian travelers to explore Moscow’s attractions and embark on a journey to the captivating wonders of Siberia, including the Siberian capital, Tyumen. Travelers can immerse themselves in the region’s natural beauty, relax in thermal springs, and savor the local cuisine.
The initiative has already yielded positive results. An Indian delegation recently conducted over 800 meetings with companies in Moscow, expanding the options available to Indian tourists.
Furthermore, the introduction of e-visas on August 1, 2023, has significantly streamlined travel. In its first month, over 30,000 tourists utilized the e-visa service, which grants a 60-day validity and allows for stays of up to 16 days.
Moscow is also proactively addressing payment challenges faced by foreign tourists lacking access to credit or debit cards. While visitors can currently pay in cash or withdraw funds at local banks, Russia’s Economic Development Ministry is set to introduce an electronic payment card for foreign tourists by the end of the year. This initiative will significantly ease payment concerns.
Moscow’s efforts are paying off. In the first half of the year, almost 1 million foreign tourists visited the city, with an additional 600,000 arriving over the summer. Leading non-CIS countries contributing to this influx include China, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, and India.
In fact, India was highlighted last year as one of the top non-CIS countries in terms of tourist numbers to Moscow, as noted by Kozlov.
The city caters to both casual and budget-conscious travelers, offering a diverse array of experiences. These include summer movie theaters and urban amphitheaters, pedestrian routes, hundreds of cafe and restaurant terraces, and leisurely strolls through beautifully renovated parks and gardens.
With over 18,500 food service establishments and 3,500 summer terraces, Moscow boasts a diverse culinary scene to satisfy any taste and budget. The city features restaurants serving international cuisines, unique cafes offering national dishes, and an extensive array of food markets. This culinary diversity is celebrated through popular annual food festivals such as Fish Week, RestoMarket Fest, and Tastes of Russia.
These initiatives and attractions solidify Moscow’s position as a welcoming and attractive destination for international travelers, particularly from India.
