Krasnodar Krasnodar Krai, Russia Travel Guide
Organize your planning by time to avoid last-minute rush.
Follow these steps to get ready to go for your trip to Krasnodar.
Check your passport. It needs to be valid for at least 6 months past your planned Russia departure. It further needs two blank visa pages. Renew if needed.
Start the visa process. This involves getting a visa support letter (tourist invitation) and sending your application to a Russian Consulate or Visa Center. This takes weeks, so get an early start.
Research and book international flights. Krasnodar International Airport (KRR) is closed to civilian flights. Book flights to other working airports like Sochi (AER) or Mineralnye Vody (MRV). Then plan ground transport to Krasnodar.
Book all your accommodation in Krasnodar and for any travels. Use local Russian booking sites (e.g., Ostrovok.ru) or direct hotel bookings if international sites have payment problems.
Plan your trip in detail. Include main attractions, day trips, and activities.
Get full travel insurance. Be sure it covers medical emergencies, emergency transport, trip cancellation/change, and specifically travel to Russia. World Nomads offers travel insurance.
Rereconfirm all your bookings (flights, accommodation, train tickets, tours).
Pack proper clothing and items based on the time of year and your activities.
Get some Russian Ruble cash or plan for cash withdrawal/exchange on arrival. Have small bills. Print and make digital copies of all documents (passport, visa, insurance, bookings, emergency contacts). Keep copies separate.
These items need reserving in advance.
Do this research before your trip.
Steps to take at home.
Starting your Russian visa application early is a must. Also, note that foreign-issued cards may not perform in Russia; cash in Rubles is important.
These steps make for a smooth entry and first moments in Krasnodar.
Clear immigration. Be sure to get and keep your migration card. It is a document for your stay and exit.
Collect your luggage.
Find official transport options (train station, bus terminal, taxi stand) to your lodging.
Exchange money to Russian Ruble cash at a good office, or get cash from ATMs (if you have a Russian card or cash to exchange). Buy a local SIM card from an official store for local calls and data.
From Krasnodar-1 Railway Station or Bus Terminal, use official taxis or ride-sharing apps (Yandex.Taxi) to reach your hotel or apartment. If flying into other airports (Sochi, Mineralnye Vody), have your pre-booked ground transport to Krasnodar ready.
Buy bottled water and some first snacks.
Use Yandex.Maps or 2GIS for moving around. These apps give live transport updates and directions.
Download offline maps for when you have no internet.
Getting a local SIM card (MTS, Beeline, MegaFon, Tele2) is good for staying connected.
It helps you use ride-sharing and translation apps easily.
Always have Russian Ruble cash for purchases. Many places may not accept foreign cards.
Plan your cash needs for daily spending and smaller vendors.
Remember Krasnodar Airport is closed. Have your ground transport from alternative airports like Sochi or Mineralnye Vody to Krasnodar arranged beforehand.
Get ready for your departure for a calm exit from Krasnodar.
There is no foreign embassy or consulate located in Krasnodar. All consular services for foreign nationals are handled through their respective embassies in Moscow.
Before you leave, verify all travel documents are ready plus check your transport details.
Remember to account for extended travel times to airports outside Krasnodar.
