Russian tourism is in total decline: no one wants to go even to St Petersburg

This has been reported by the Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine.

Domestic tourism in the Russian Federation is showing clear signs of slowing down and losing its appeal, according to an analysis of the situation.

Following a brief period of growth in 2023–2024, the growth rate of domestic tourist trips within the Russian Federation fell sharply: in 2025, it dropped to its lowest level, and only a symbolic increase is expected for 2026.

This is particularly evident in the case of St Petersburg – one of the country’s main tourist hubs. Demand for trips to the city is falling, and tourists are increasingly choosing other destinations or opting out of domestic travel altogether.

Analysts point to a number of issues holding back the sector’s development: high prices, poor infrastructure, low service standards and an outdated tourism product that fails to meet travellers’ modern expectations.

As a result, even those who still travel within Russia are forced to economise, cut back on spending and often opt for just one trip a year, which puts further pressure on the tourism market.

Experts have previously noted that the decline in the domestic tourism sector is partly linked to rising travel costs and low demand among the population, which could lead to further difficulties for the Russian tourism industry should the economic situation deteriorate.

As is well known, the Russian Federation is doing everything it can to keep Russians within its borders, especially as there is a need for many men to bolster the ranks of the military in the so-called ‘special military operation’. In this regard, Russian officials recently discussed the possibility of introducing a levy on citizens travelling abroad.

It was also reported that the Russian Foreign Ministry advised its citizens against travelling to Germany, as the “situation there is unfavourable” for Russians.