Russia is the most frequent destination from Armenia: Moscow, St Petersburg, Sochi, Krasnodar, Rostov. Some go for a couple of days on business, others visit family for a month. You need data right after landing — to book a taxi, open a map and tell your family you've arrived.
Networks and coverage
Russia has four national carriers, and all of them have fast, stable 4G in big cities; on highways and in small towns coverage is weaker. In some regions mobile internet is occasionally restricted for a while — this affects every network, not a particular plan.
eSIM, local SIM or roaming
A local SIM is bought on arrival, roaming without a package is expensive, while an eSIM takes a minute to buy from home: the QR code arrives instantly and your main number stays on for calls and texts. Worth knowing in Russia:
- A foreigner registers a local SIM with a passport and an extra registration step — that takes time and a queue at the shop.
- Roaming without a package gets expensive on such trips, especially if you need data every day.
- Some foreign services work with restrictions in Russia — download the apps and maps you need in advance.
How to prepare before you fly
- Check eSIM support: dial
*#06#— if you see an EID line, you're good. - Install the eSIM at home over Wi-Fi. For most plans the clock starts at the first connection abroad; the exact rule is on the plan card.
- Set the eSIM as your mobile data line and turn on data roaming for it.
- Turn off data roaming on your main SIM so it doesn't spend money.
Step by step, with videos: How to install an eSIM on iPhone and Android.
Trip tips
- It's easiest to book a taxi via Yandex Go — the fare is known upfront.
- Save an offline city map: the metro doesn't have coverage on every stretch.
- For a long stay pick a plan with spare data or one you can top up without a new eSIM.
The ALO eSIM app also has a translator and a map: ask for directions, explain yourself at a pharmacy, find a café nearby.