Places to Visit in Russia: The Golden Ring

The Golden Ring represents a group of historic Russian cities located to the northeast of Moscow. Any two of the cities in the Golden Ring are within 24 hours of each other, and due to stunning architecture and the availability of traditional crafts, these cities are popular tourist destinations. While you may not need to visit all the cities here, Suzdal, Sergiev Posad, and Yaroslavl are among the most fascinating. You are especially encouraged to make a visit to the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius; founded in 1345, this monastery is the spiritual centre of the Russian Orthodox Church and is located in Sergiyev Posad.