Are you all set to cheer on your favourite football teams at this year’s World Cup? The action takes place across Russia, throughout 11 exciting host cities. Here’s a look at what to do and where to stay, to make the most of the action in each city.
World Cup 2018 Host Cities & Hotels
Moscow
Russia’s capital is home to world-renowned ballets, theatres and operas, as well as iconic sites such as the Kremlin, Red Square and Gorky Park. The city will host a multitude of football matches at its Luzhniki and Spartak stadiums. There’s high demand for hotels, however you can still find deals, so get in quick! Take a look at Aerostar Hotel Moscow and the Hilton Garden Inn Moscow Krasnoselskaya, both of which have easy access to public transport.
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Saint Petersburg
Home to the Hermitage museum, the spectacular Church of the Saviour on Blood and charming canals lined with baroque buildings, Saint Petersburg is a cosmopolitan hub of visual delights. Matches for World Cup 2018 will take place at Saint Petersburg Stadium, with a capacity for 67,000 football fans. For a mid-range hotel with good public transportation links, check out the Russ Hotel, or try the Station Hotel M19.
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Sochi
Sochi, located on the Black Sea, is Russia’s top resort city, otherwise known as the ‘summer capital’ of the country. When you’re not watching football matches at Fisht Olympic Stadium, you’ll enjoy warm seas, hiking in the Agura Valley and top-notch nightclubs. Stay in the heart of the city at Mercure Sochi Centre or Park Inn by Radisson Sochi City Centre.
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Ekaterinburg
Ekaterinburg, or Yekaterinburg, sits at the foot of the Ural Mountains, with a vibrant arts, music and theatre scene and a super-fast underground Metro system. Find budget rooms at the central Ural Hotel, or try the Hyatt Regency for a touch of luxury.
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Saransk
Saransk is a comparatively small host city, filled with picturesque mosques, orthodox churches, museums and charming squares. Football fans will head to Mordovia Arena for the action. For central, budget accommodation, check out Hotel Meridian and Sarin.
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Rostov-on-Don
Along the River Don, footie fans can enjoy sandy beaches and a seafood feast before or after watching a match at Rostov Arena. This port city is home to top universities and a fresh vibe, with a booming technology industry. Indulge in a plush room at the Bellagio or the great-value Hotel Elbuzd.
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Kazan
One of Russia’s oldest cities, Kazan is no stranger to sports, as the home of some of the best football, hockey and football teams in the country, as well as Kazan Arena. Visitors can also explore gorgeous cathedrals, mosques and diverse culture, from a central base at the Ramada Kazan City Center or the Center Hotel Kazan Kremlin.
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Kaliningrad
In Kaliningrad, take a ride on the Pregolya River, enjoy fantastic fishing and explore the dynamic amber jewellery industry. You’ll find accommodation near the action at Kaliningrad Stadium, at ibis Kaliningrad Center and Hotel Kaiserhof.
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Samara
The Volga region is on the tourist map for the famous Russian aerospace centre and beautiful beaches along the Volga River. Check out budget rooms at Hotel Livadia or at Holiday Inn Samara to be close to the river.
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Volgograd
Volgograd, formerly Stalingrad, is most famous for its place in World War II history, during which it was besieged and much of the city destroyed. Now, the city welcomes tourists with beaches, monuments, museums and vibrant culture. If you’re planning on watching the action at Volgograd Arena, check out rooms at the Hotel Volgograd with a spa and indoor pool onsite, or the budget-friendly Parallel Hotel.
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Nizhny Novgorod
World Heritage-listed Nizhny Novgorod is located in the hills overlooking the Volga River. The city is known for commerce, with annual trade fairs, software and engineering firms. History shines throughout the city, especially at its 16th century Kremlin. A brand new stadium will be hosting the sporting action, so look for rooms at central hotels, like Marins Park Hotel and Courtyard by Marriott Nizhny Novgorod City Center, to enjoy World Cup 2018 and a fun holiday at the same time!
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*Note: These rates are based on search queries made on kayak.com.my on 1 May 2018. The prices are quoted in MYR. Flight prices are based on results for a return economy flight search. Hotel prices are for double occupancy and include taxes and fees. Prices are subject to change, may vary, or no longer be available.
