Russians Are Traveling for Taste: The Hottest Food and Wine Destinations Right Now

A new study from hotel booking service Otello and wine retailer SimpleWine reveals the top Russian regions for gastronomic and wine tourism. The research, shared with Lenta.ru, shows that travelers are increasingly using trips to explore local flavors and traditions. When asked about their preferred destinations, 27 percent of respondents chose Southern Russia, 20 percent picked the North Caucasus, and 18 percent named the Far East. Kaliningrad Oblast and Siberia rounded out the list, with 14 percent and 12 percent of the vote, respectively. The study notes that Southern Russia is emerging as a hub for domestic winemaking, with both large-scale projects and small vineyards now featured on culinary tours. The North Caucasus draws visitors with its blend of cooking and wine traditions, while the Far East offers an abundance of fresh seafood. Kaliningrad stands out for its European-style cuisine, and Siberia impresses with dishes featuring wild game, taiga berries, and pine nuts. Earlier reports indicated growing interest in trips to Kuban’s wineries, complete with tours and tastings, and the trend is especially strong among younger tourists.