Is Yekaterinburg Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

On Feb. 24, 2022, Russia invaded its neighbor country Ukraine, starting a war between these two countries.

This act of invasion caused many Ukrainians to flee their country and seek shelter in places like Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, etc…

At this time, we recommend no travel to Russia or Ukraine, or any neighboring countries for your own safety.

Yekaterinburg is the 4th most populous city in Russia.

To this day, the city retains its metallurgical roots, and the metal industry is the most significant contributor to the economy.

The city is situated near the Ural Mountains, the border of Europe and Asia, and there are several symbolic monuments to mark the border.

Some landmarks that tourists can visit: Ganina Yama.

Once a pit in the woods where the bodies of the executed Romanov family and three of their dedicated servants have disposed; Church on the Blood; QWERTY Monument.

Yekaterinburg offers plenty of cross-country skiing.

There are some downhill skiing resorts as well.

It will take you approximately 25 minutes to get to the nearest of them from the center of the city.

Warnings & Dangers in Yekaterinburg

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

In general, Yekaterinburg is safer than many other cities in Russia. If you take specific security measures and use common sense, you are unlikely to get into trouble. It is better not to walk around the city at night. In public transport and tourist places, keep an eye on your belongings.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Public transport is not very reliable, although it can be used for daytime transportation. Beware of pickpockets in crowded vehicles. Taxis are preferable, especially for traveling at night. Call only licensed taxi services, do not take a taxi from the street, especially at the airport.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

There are quite a few pickpockets; most often, they work in groups. In public transport and crowded places, watch your things, especially carefully. It is better not to carry large amounts of cash and valuables. Keep a copy of your documents with you, leave the originals in the hotel safe.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

There are usually no severe natural disasters in the region. Flooding can sometimes occur due to river spills, but this does not happen often. Examine the weather conditions before your visit to Yekaterinburg.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

Armed severe robberies are rare in Yekaterinburg. Disassembly usually takes place between drunk people or drug gangs. In case of an attack on you - immediately give the criminals what is required of you and then contact the police.

TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM

There is a moderate risk of terrorism in Yekaterinburg. Extremist groups occasionally threaten to set off bombs in market areas that operate largely by migrant workers. Terrorist attacks by local criminal groups may also occur in the area. Do not participate in demonstrations and avoid crowds.

SCAMS RISK: LOW

Some fraud occurs via SMS and phone. It usually does not affect tourists. Another type of fraud is ATM card fraud when criminals read your card details. Use only ATM with banks and under guard.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

In general, women can safely travel to Yekaterinburg alone. But you should follow some rules: do not walk around the city at the latest at night, do not get drunk in bars, do not wear too revealing clothes. If you call a taxi - use only licensed services and always get in the back seat in the car.

So... How Safe Is Yekaterinburg Really?

Yekaterinburg has a low to moderate index of crime.

Most crimes concern robberies, carjacking, things stealing, dealing with drugs, vandalism, and high level of corruption.

There is minimal risk from crime in Yekaterinburg compared to other major Russian metropolitan areas.

The police can deter many serious crimes, but petty crimes still occur with some frequency and remain a common problem.

Here a lot of pickpocketing, but they operate mainly on public transportation, shopping areas, and tourist sites.

The most vulnerable areas for crime include underground entrances to and within the subway system, overnight trains, train stations, airports, open markets, and crowded tourist events.

If possible, do not carry the original documents with you, keep a copy with you, and leave the originals in the hotel safe.

Road surfaces in need of repair are a constant concern.

Asphalt quality varies, and roads outside the city may be in worse condition.

Avoid drunk people, especially at night.

They have no purpose of attacking tourists, but you can become a random target.

The quality of assistance from local law enforcement varies.

Some affected tourists report that in some cases, local law- enforcement officers failed to take action even when they witnessed crimes in progress.

How Does Yekaterinburg Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

The visa policy of Russia has agreements with scores of countries whose citizens are either exempt from visas or can apply for a visa online (e-visa). Citizens of states without such a deal with Russia must obtain a visa in advance from a Russian diplomatic mission or visa center. A valid passport is a must.

Currency

The Russian ruble or rouble is the currency of the Russian Federation. It has a sign: ₽, and code: RUB. The ruble is subdivided into 100 kopeks.

Weather

The best times to visit Yekaterinburg for ideal weather are June to September. Average temperatures in Yekaterinburg vary an incredible amount and the weather feels cold for most of the year with a very low chance of rain or snow throughout the year.

Airports

Koltsovo International Airport is the international airport serving Yekaterinburg. The airport is located 16 km southeast of the city. Being the largest airport in Sverdlovsk Oblast, Koltsovo also serves nearby towns such as Aramil, Sysert, and Polevskoy.

Travel Insurance

The travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.

Yekaterinburg Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Russia - Safety by City