Press releases

8 Apr 2026

Focus on regional identity: What types of tourism are popular in Belarus and Russia

An archive photo

MINSK, 8 April (BelTA) - Tourism between Russia and Belarus can be a significant contribution to the economy, Deputy Chairperson of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation Inna Svyatenko said during tthe plenary session of the 4th Belarus-Russia tourism congress and the international tourism forum Travel Hub Commonwealth in Minsk on 8 April, BelTA has learned.

"The development of tourism between the two countries can be a serious contribution to the economy," the chairperson noted “The routes are being worked out in detail, and tour operators are working closely together. We are confident that tourist flows will continue to grow."

Travelers are particularly interested in landmarks, folk arts and crafts in both countries, and patriotic tourism. Belarusian health resorts and spa facilities remain attractive to Russian visitors.

When asked about popular destinations in Russia among Belarusians, Inna Svyatenko mentioned that Belarusians enjoy visiting Moscow and St. Petersburg. She added that the Far East has recently become more popular, with places like Yakutia, Chukotka, and Sakhalin gaining attention.

"Based on the statistics provided by travel companies, we can see that the number of people traveling not only along traditional routes but also to the Far East is increasing," she said.
This year, the Travel Hub Commonwealth program is fully integrated with the agenda of the Belarus-Russia tourism congress, creating a unified platform for practical solutions. "A single platform has been created to develop practical solutions and common approaches to the growth of priority types of tourism," she said.

Cooperation programs are being created between Russian ski resorts and the Belarusian ski center Silichi. "Work on a model law on tourism in specially protected mountain areas will continue at the forum site," Inna Svyatenko added.

In Russia and Belarus, there are also types of tourism that allow experiencing the unique flavor of the region. One such type of tourism that has significant potential is gastronomic tourism.

These days, Minsk is hosting the IV Belarus-Russia tourism congress and the international forum Travel Hub Commonwealth. Attending these events are representatives from 22 regions of Russia, as well as Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and other CIS countries.