Vladivostok

This port city sits on the Muravyov-Amursky Peninsula facing the Sea of Japan, spreading across multiple hills and bays linked by large bridges. The whole area unfolds irregularly between water and steep slopes, creating neighborhoods with winding streets and stairways that climb through residential districts.

The settlement began in 1860 as a military post and quickly grew into the main naval base for Russia in the Pacific. For decades it remained completely closed to foreigners, only opening gradually after 1991 when international access finally became possible.

Far from Moscow, the local community has long looked eastward, and you can see this in daily life through the mix of Russian and Asian influences in restaurants, markets, and storefronts. Cafés and shopping streets shape the rhythm of the day, while residents often spend time walking outdoors and gathering near the water despite the harsh winters.

The city forms the eastern endpoint of the Trans-Siberian Railway, linking Moscow to the Pacific through seven time zones. For travelers this means long journey times but also solid rail connections and an international airport for quicker arrivals from Asia.

To reach Russky Island you cross a cable-stayed bridge over 3,000 meters long, the longest of its kind in the country. It opened only recently and links the mainland to a formerly military zone now accessible to visitors.