Russian tourism is in total decline — intelligence report
The domestic tourism sector in the Russian Federation is experiencing a sharp slowdown in growth following a brief surge in activity in 2023–2024.
According to analytical data, Russians’ interest in traveling within their own country has waned, and the industry’s growth rates have fallen to a historic low.
According to Ukraine’s Foreign Intelligence Service, the situation in the aggressor country’s tourism industry is becoming increasingly threatening to local businesses.
“In 2025, they fell to their lowest levels, and only symbolic growth is expected for 2026,” analysts note, describing the dynamics of tourist travel.
The most telling example is St. Petersburg, which has traditionally been considered a cultural capital and a major draw for travelers.
Currently, demand for trips to the city is declining significantly, and once-popular routes remain empty due to shifts in the population’s priorities.
Experts identify several key factors that have caused market stagnation, with the mismatch between the cost of services and their quality ranking first.
High prices, poor infrastructure, low service standards, and an outdated tourism product prevent the attraction of new customers.
The economic crisis is forcing even consumers loyal to the domestic market to radically reevaluate their vacation spending.
As a result, even those who still travel within Russia are forced to save money, cut back on expenses, and often limit themselves to just one trip a year.
As a reminder, Russia plans to bring tourists to the devastated Donbas.
Additionally, Russian tourists are massively turning away from vacations in Sochi due to drone attacks.
