Russia - Climate and when to go to Russia

Climate

Moscow's climate really consists of two seasons: winter and summer. Temperatures are pleasantly warm in mid-summer, with high humidity and occasionally hot spells. Winters only have about six hours of daylight in the middle of the season and temperatures are below freezing point. Winter snows start in October and the snow stays well into spring. It can rain as many as one day in three.

St Petersburg is much milder than you think. January temperatures average -8°C ; a really cold day will get down to -15°C. It's a windy city. Summer is cool and snow in late April is not uncommon. The warm weather doesn't really start until the period between June and August, when temperatures reach 20°C.

When to go
For both cities the best time to visit are the months of January, February, May, June, September, although some consider St Petersburg a year-round destination.
 
In January and February there is much snow and winter magic. In May and June there are many things happening in both cities: carnivals, exhibitions, concerts, and other special events. At the beginning of July St. Petersburg 's White Nights' are staring, when there's daylight all day long. In September autumn is just starting and is considered one of the most beautiful periods in Russia: yellowish and red trees, sunny weather, cool winds and the mood of change.
January and February are good because there's much snow, and the city looks magical.

Russian winters are cold, but snow-covered landscapes are picturesque. During the spring thaw - in late March and early April - everything turns to mud and slush. Summer comes fast in May and temperatures are comfortable until well into September. July and August are the warmest months and the main holiday season. Early summer, with its long days, and early autumn, with its colourful foliage, are often the favourite seasons to travel.