Understand

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking city of Vladivostok, a captivating destination surrounded by the Amursky Gulf, Ussuriysky Gulf, and the Golden Horn Bay. It serves as the home base for the renowned Russian Pacific Fleet. The city's southernmost part, Russkiy Island, is separated by the Eastern Bosphorous strait and is complemented by two smaller, sparsely populated islands named Reineke and Popov. Vladivostok's history dates back to its establishment as a military post in 1860. Soon after, it attained the prestigious status of porto-franco, igniting international commerce and fostering rapid development. The city even witnessed the involvement of Japanese, American, French, and Czechoslovak armies during the October Revolution, as they allied with the Whites. During the Soviet era, from 1958 to 1992, Vladivostok remained inaccessible to foreigners, adding an air of mystery and exclusivity. Eventually, the city opened its doors to tourism and the world. As you explore the city center, located at the water's edge, you'll be greeted by grand boulevards adorned with intricate century-old buildings. While many of these architectural gems have fallen into disrepair, their allure remains, calling for restoration. Venturing outwards, you'll be greeted by the contrast of decaying Soviet blocks interspersed with newer high-rise buildings, offering homes to the majority of the city's residents. Beautiful oak woods envelop the city, creating a serene natural setting. Together with nearby Nakhodka, Vladivostok serves as a starting point for thrilling weekend bus tours, leading to winter ski slopes or enchanting waterfalls during the summer months. In August, the blooming lotus lakes become a popular attraction for campers and nature enthusiasts. In recent years, Vladivostok has experienced a remarkable surge in tourism, particularly from South Korean and Chinese visitors. In 2018 alone, the city welcomed an astounding 780,000 foreign tourists, representing a staggering 25% increase compared to the previous year. Don't miss the opportunity to discover the charm and allure of this dynamic city that has truly come alive!

Get in

If you are a citizen of certain countries, you can obtain an e-visa for visits up to 8 days in Russia. However, citizens of the US, Canada, and EU countries must obtain a visa in advance as an e-visa is unavailable for them. For more information on visa requirements to Russia, you can visit the Russia#Get in page.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Blini - Thin Russian pancakes made with buckwheat flour, typically filled with caviar, sour cream, or butter. Often served as a starter or snack.

Borscht - A hearty soup made with beets, potatoes, cabbage, and other vegetables, often featuring meat such as beef or ham. It may include additional ingredients like eggs, sour cream, or dill.

Pelmeni - Russian dumplings filled with meat, usually ground beef or pork, and seasonings. They can be boiled, fried, or baked and often served with sour cream or butter.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing