14 November 2025, 19:01

Russian official explains why Belarus is attractive to tourists from Moscow

An archive photo

MINSK, 14 November (BelTA) – During a press conference in Minsk, Deputy Chairman of the Moscow Tourism Committee Bulat Nurmukhanov named factors that make Belarus an attractive destination for tourists from Moscow, BelTA reports.

Bulat Nurmukhanov highlighted the significant interest from Russian tourists. “Our countries are very close, not only geographically but also culturally and spiritually. You can get to Belarus by your car for a weekend getaway. The country is easily accessible. Furthermore, the Mir payment system is available here. Therefore, Russian tourists, including Muscovites, can use their bank cards here and pay for everything they need. Other factors include a diversity of tourist attractions, comfort, safety, cleanliness, the vast variety of resorts, and beautiful nature; it’s a go-to for Muscovites who want to slow down, relax, and have a change of scenery. All of this together makes Belarus attractive to us,” the deputy chairman explained.

He emphasized that tourism is fundamentally about emotions, relaxation, and impressions. The tourist flow from Belarus to Moscow is also steadily growing and reaching record levels. “The pre-pandemic 2019 figures have already been surpassed: according to preliminary estimates, 183,000 tourists from Belarus visited Moscow in the first nine months of 2025. This is an increase of approximately a third compared to the same period last year. For context, the total for the entire year of 2024 was 190,000 Belarusian tourists,” he added.

Bulat Nurmukhanov noted that more than half of Belarusian visitors (54.7%) arrive in Moscow by road. This figure includes 28% using cars and 26% traveling by bus. “Another 28% arrive by train, and 17% by plane. On average, tourists from Belarus stay for five days, and 78% of them are independent travelers. Family tourists account for almost a quarter of the total flow,” he shared.