Essential Russian Travel Phrases for Tourists

Exploring Russia, from the historic grandeur of Moscow to the cultural splendor of St. Petersburg, is an unforgettable experience. While many younger Russians speak English, having a few basic Russian phrases in your arsenal will significantly enhance your journey, helping you navigate, order food, and ask for help.

Greetings & Essentials

Start with politeness! These phrases are your key to friendly interactions.

• Hello: Здравствуйте (Zdravstvuyte)
• Goodbye: До свидания (Do svidaniya)
• Please: Пожалуйста (Pozhaluysta)
• Thank you: Спасибо (Spasibo)
• Excuse me / Sorry: Извините (Izvinite)

Asking for Help

Feeling lost or need assistance? Don't hesitate to use these vital phrases.

• Help!: Помогите! (Pomogite!)
• I don’t understand: Я не понимаю (Ya ne ponimayu)
• Do you speak English?: Вы говорите по-английски? (Vy govorite po-angliyski?)

Food & Drink

Savoring Russian cuisine is a must. These phrases will help you order and pay.

• I would like...: Я хотел(а) бы... (Ya khotel(a) by...) (use 'хотела' if you are female)
• How much does it cost?: Сколько стоит? (Skolko stoit?)
• Water: Вода (Voda)

Directions

Navigating city streets and public transport becomes easier with these simple directional phrases.

• Where is...?: Где находится...? (Gde nakhoditsya...?)
• Left: Налево (Nalevo)
• Right: Направо (Napravo)
• Straight ahead: Прямо (Pryamo)

Even a few words of Russian will be greatly appreciated and can smooth your interactions with locals. Practice these simple phrases, and you’ll be ready to explore Russia with confidence. Удачного путешествия! (Udachnogo puteshestviya!) – Have a good trip!