China Dominates Russia's Inbound Tourism as Arrivals Climb

China, Southeast Asia, India and the Persian Gulf states are the main sources of foreign tourists visiting Russia, according to the Association of Tour Operators of Russia (ATOR).

In the first half of 2026, China was the clear leader, accounting for 56.2% of all inbound tourist visits to Russia. Tourist visits from China rose 19.7% year on year, ATOR said.

Turkey also saw arrivals climb 19.7%. Tourist traffic from India grew 15%, a sign operators view as promising for that market, while visits from South Korea increased 23.8%. Vietnam posted a 69% rise from a low base last year, and Malaysia was up 20.9%.

Foreign visitors head mainly to Moscow and St Petersburg, but their interests vary: Chinese tourists favour excursions and museums, while those from the Middle East and India lean toward active holidays, nature and shopping.

Operators are also noting interest in Sochi and Krasnaya Polyana, drawn by nature, mountains, resort infrastructure and a gambling zone, as well as in Kazan, Vladivostok and the Murmansk region.