Summer getaways for young people increasingly choosing the Krasnodar region as their preferred vacation spot.
Young Russians Embracing Small Cities as Popular Vacation Destinations
Small cities across Russia are becoming increasingly popular vacation spots for young Russians, according to a study by Yandex Travel and the Small Cities Research Center.
The Krasnodar Krai, a region in southwestern Russia, is the most favored summer destination among young Russians aged 18-35. The region boasts an impressive 31.7% share of accommodation bookings among this demographic. The Republic of Crimea follows closely behind with a 43.6% share, while the Vladimir Oblast, Kaliningrad Oblast, Ivanovo Oblast, and the Republic of Karelia also hold significant shares of 31.7%, 34.1%, 24.9%, and 35.9% respectively.
The appeal of small cities lies in their authentic local culture, less crowded environments, affordability, and distinctive atmospheres. Factors such as the freshness of the air, vibrant social scenes, and the opportunity to explore lesser-known cultural sites, enjoy nature, and experience unusual city layouts, all contribute to the allure of these destinations.
Three-quarters (76.5%) of young travelers are interested in small towns, with 70.4% actively seeking information about various destinations across Russia. The top three factors influencing the choice of location for young travelers are nature and landscapes (71.4%), affordability and budget (61.4%), and architecture and history (42.3%).
In the top 15 Russian regions by the number of bookings among young users (18-35 years old) and average nightly cost, Sochi and Krasnodar have been the most frequently visited destinations over the past three years. In August, hotels and apartments in the Krasnodar Krai are booked for an average of 5 nights, with an average nightly cost of 7,641 rubles.
While the top 15 Russian regions by the share of accommodation bookings in small cities among young users (18-35 years old) are not provided in the given text, it is clear that these destinations offer a unique and attractive alternative to the crowded, tourist-heavy environments of major metropolises like Moscow or St. Petersburg.
References:
- [Source 1]
- [Source 2]
- [Source 4] (Traveler impressions of Foros and Yalta)
- [Source Yandex Travel and the Small Cities Research Center] (Study on the most popular summer vacation destination among young Russians)
- [Source 3] (Lipetsk Oblast share of accommodation bookings among young users)
Young Russians are also showing interest in other types of vacation experiences, such as homestays and activities that cater to their lifestyle, home-and-garden, travel, education-and-self-development interests. For instance, some young travelers are opting for farm stays to learn sustainable living practices. Additionally, with the growth of e-learning platforms, young Russians are seeking destinations that offer unique educational experiences, immersive cultural explorations, and opportunities for personal development.
