By Turkish Airlines
Are you a football fan? If so, you’ve reason to rejoice this summer, as June 14 marks the kick off of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.
Four Arab national teams will be flying out to compete at this year’s tournament. And, following close behind them will be legions of loyal ticket-holding fans eager to see how their own team fares at the pinnacle of international football.
With 14 flights (weekly 2 flights) from Qatar to Istanbul and with short onward connections to seven match venues in Russia, Turkish Airlines has the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia covered.
Turkish Airlines flies into seven of the tournament’s 11 host cities and has put together an essential guide for each of its destinations.
Moscow may be best known for its historically and politically significant attractions, but beyond these high-profile landmarks lays a broader, buzzing metropolis that rarely seems to slow.
The Kremlin, Red Square and Saint Basil’s Cathedral tell a fascinating story of Russia’s colourful past, while the Moscow riverboat tour provides a memorable, alternative view of the city. Head to Danilovsky Market to sample deli-style international cuisines, and Tverskaya Street for row after row of retail stores. Moscow’s weather is pleasant during the summer months, making a visit to the activity-filled Gorky Park worthwhile.
• Capacity: 80,000
• Relevant matches hosted: Portugal v Morocco, June 20; Round of 16, July 1; Semi-final, July 11; Final, July 15
• Fly with Turkish Airlines into: Domodedovo International Airport
• Capacity: 45,360
• Relevant matches hosted: Belgium v Tunisia, June 23; Round of 16, July 3
• Fly with Turkish Airlines into: Sheremetyevo International Airport
Bunker 42. This vast tunnel system was built in secret under the streets of Moscow after the Soviet Union’s first series of nuclear tests to shelter Stalin and other senior figures in case of nuclear fallout.
Russia’s cultural heart, Saint Petersburg stands apart for the scale of its opulent landmarks and historical attractions. The city’s elegant canal, lined by ornate plazas and elegant palaces often draws comparison with Venice, while its many parks and gardens bloom during the summer months to offer a brief retreat from urban life.
Like many cities in Russia, Saint Petersburg’s rich past has been preserved for the modern day. As the first structure that was built in the city, Peter & Paul Fortress on Zayachy Island is considered the birthplace of Saint Petersburg. Meanwhile, the world-famous Hermitage Museum comprises the largest collection of paintings in the world and this magnificent Russian Museum houses a vast collection of impressive Russian art.
The White Nights festival. Held this year between May 26 and July 23, the festival brings classic ballet, opera and musical performances to the city. If that’s not your thing, a series of carnivals are also held in the streets during the festival, where actors in period dress and period carriages play out historical events.
Known informally as “the gateway to the Caucasus”, Rostov-on-Don marks the geographic border between Asia and Europe, and is the preferred stop off point for travellers heading on to the Black Sea.
The city’s many green spaces and imposing squares make it an ideal destination to explore on foot, which leads most to the Don River – arguably the city’s most prominent landmark. Here, visitors will find an energetic mix of food stalls, live music, and pleasant fountains. Beyond the many riverside sights, Rostov-on-Don’s rich history is a recurring feature. Bolshaya Sadovaya Street, one of the city’s oldest and most attractive locations, stands as Rostov-on-Don’s cultural hub.
Pushkinskaya Ulitsa. Escape the city streets and explore this serene promenade, which is at its most pleasant during the summer months. Restaurants, sculptures, and buskers pepper the route, providing a welcome distraction during a casual stroll.
Already familiar to most as the host city of the 2014 Winter Olympics, Sochi is a polished seaside gem on Russia’s southern cost. The city is the largest on the ‘Russian Riviera’, so named for the area’s sophisticated, energetic resorts.
Beyond the yachts and nightlife, you’ll see that Sochi has a calmer character in the many peaceful parks dotted along the coastline – notably, Sochi National Park. And, like most major Russian cities, you won’t need to explore much to discover the area’s historical and political past. The Museum of Sochi History shines a light on the city’s maritime and military past.
The Lenin Mosaic. This highly Instagramable, giant read head shot of the former Soviet Leader is hard to miss in Sochi’s Riviera Park.
Understated Samara may not be a typical tourist magnet, but the port city’s lively atmosphere and riverside location should create an enjoyable experience for traveling football fans.
The Samara Embankment is a highlight during the sunnier months. It offers the chance to stroll and admire the view out over the Volga River, as sunbather bronze and friends catch up at one of the various low-key cafes. Creative types will appreciate the city’s abundant art museum, while Stalin’s Bunker provides a lesson in Samara’s Soviet history.
Square Aleksandra Pushkina. This peaceful retreat is an ideal spot to wander and relax, crowned by the memorable view down on to the Volga River below.
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