6. Sochi
Sochi is a Black Sea resort, best known prior to the 2014 Winter Olympics as a place where the Russian elite would vacation in the summer (Joseph Stalin had a dacha -traditional Russian summerhouse – nearby, which is now open to visitors). The Games brought new, modern infrastructure, leaving numerous hotels, restaurants and cafes for visitors to explore. There’s plenty to do, from wandering through botanical gardens to relaxing on the beach. A visit to see the multimillion-dollar Olympic venues is a must; because these buildings are sometimes shut down for local events, you may want to consider booking a tour to avoid disappointment. If you’re looking for grandeur on your travel experience in Russia, you’ll find plenty of it here.