Cosmopolitan cities, bubbling volcanoes, spectacular mountains and breathtaking art - Russia is as diverse as it is dramatic, while Belarus satisfies those in search of a Soviet experience. Untangle the conspiracy theories and immerse yourself in the rich heritage - from Minsk to Moscow, Siberia to Kamchatka, make sure you're carrying this best-selling guide to the world's most enigmatic destination.

Famously described by Winston Churchill as 'a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma',Russia is the globe's most rewarding and misunderstood destination. From St Petersburg's glit-tering palaces to Kamchatka's bubbling volcanoes nine time zones away, the world's largest country offers unparalleled geographic and cultural marvels, plus incredible hospitality and a refreshing break from the norm. The last few years have seen noticeable changes, many for the better - the Russia you'll find today is a vastly different place from that of the Soviet years.

Whether you attend a ballet at the Bolshoi, go white-water rafting in the Altai Mountains,or trundle across country on a trans-Siberian train, Russia's range of holiday possibilities is practically limitless. Moscow and St Petersburg are fabulous cities, up there with the best of Europe in terms of sights, sleeping and dining options. Vast areas of the country, previously off limits or undeveloped for tourism, are now open and easily accessible through Russia's comprehensive rail system, making Russia an adventure traveller's dream.

Neighbouring Belarus is the nation with arguably the closest geographical and cultural ties to Russia. This authoritarian dinosaur of a country is an unlikely place for a holiday, but its cosmopolitan capital, Minsk, and the historic towns of Hrodna, Vitsebsk and Brest all have their charms. The countryside also retains a haunting, old-fashioned beauty.

It's not all good news. Dealing with bureaucracy, corrupt police and tolerating some discomfort remains an integral part of the whole Russian travel experience. Don't be put off: this guide will help you break through Russia's sometime gruff exterior, allowing you to discover the renowned warmth of its people and its epic-scale natural beauty. So ditch those preconceptions - come shed your own shaft of light on the world's largest mystery.

The Authors

Getting Started

Itineraries

Snapshot

Russia

Introduction to Russia

History

The Culture

Environment

Food & Drink

Moscow

Golden Ring

St Petersburg

Western European Russia

Northern European Russia

Volga Region

The Urals

Russian Caucasus

Siberia

Russian Far East

Belarus

Belarus

Directory

Transport

Health

Language

Glossary

Behind the Scenes

World Time Zones

Index

Map Legend