Nizhny Novgorod, a major city in Russia, sits where the Oka and Volga rivers meet. With over 1.2 million residents, it's the sixth-largest city in the country and a key hub for trade and culture. Founded in 1221, the city has a rich history, including a pivotal role in the fight against Polish invaders in 1612. By the 19th century, it became a bustling trade center, especially known for its fairs. During the Soviet era, it was renamed Gorky and became an industrial powerhouse, earning the nickname "Russian Detroit." The city's famous Kremlin still stands, showcasing its historic significance. In 1985, Nizhny Novgorod opened its metro system, modernizing transportation. After the Soviet Union fell, the city regained its original name in 1990. Celebrating its 800th anniversary in 2021, Nizhny Novgorod honors its past while looking to the future. 

Kazan is the largest city and capital of Tatarstan. Kazan is over 1,000 years old, founded around 1004–1005 AD. It was a border post between the Volga Bulgars and the Mari and Udmurt peoples. The historical symbol of Kazan is the mythical dragon-like creature Zilant, often mentioned in legends. The city grew into an important trade center in the Golden Horde during the 13th and 14th centuries. In 1552, Tsar Ivan the Terrible conquered Kazan, leading to many Tatar residents being forced out or converted to Christianity. Kazan then became part of the Russian Empire and developed as a shipbuilding center. The city faced major fires and was rebuilt with stone during Catherine the Great’s reign. In the 20th century, Kazan became a key location during the Russian Revolution and later a center for military industry during World War II. After the Soviet Union fell, Kazan revived its Tatar culture and became a vibrant city again. 

Severodvinsk: In the early 1000s, Vikings explored areas around the North Dvina River, known as Bjarmaland. The first records of a settlement in modern Severodvinsk date back to 1419 when the Swedes attacked a local monastery. The Nikolo-Korelsky Monastery was founded by Saint Euphemius, and after it was destroyed, it was rebuilt in 1471. British sailors visited the area in 1553 and were surprised to find a thriving community near the monastery. Severodvinsk became an important trade hub after the Muscovy Company was established in the early 1600s. The city developed significantly during the Soviet era, especially known for building submarines at SEVMASH, where the first Soviet nuclear submarine was launched in 1957. Today, Severodvinsk is a closed city, meaning only those with special permits can enter, highlighting its continued significance in military operations.

Yekaterinburg has a rich history that dates back to prehistoric times, with the earliest settlements appearing around 8000–7000 BC. Archaeologists have found evidence of Neolithic communities in the area, showcasing their skills in stone tool-making using a variety of local rocks. By the late 17th century, Russian settlers began to establish villages, and in 1702, the first ironworks were built, setting the stage for the city’s industrial future. Yekaterinburg was officially founded on November 18, 1723, named after Empress Catherine I, and quickly grew as an iron production hub. Over the years, it developed into a vital trade center between Europe and Asia, known as the "window to Asia." In the 19th century, Yekaterinburg became a major gold mining location, significantly contributing to the Russian economy. The city played a crucial role during the Russian Revolution, particularly as the site of the tragic execution of the last royal family in 1918. After the revolution, it was renamed Sverdlovsk and became a key industrial center under Soviet rule, expanding rapidly in population and factories. Following the fall of the Soviet Union, the city regained its historical name in 1991 and has since flourished as a hub for trade, culture, and tourism, hosting significant international events. Today, Yekaterinburg stands as a vibrant city that reflects its storied past while looking toward a promising future. 

Novosibirsk is a city in Russia that was founded on April 30, 1893, near the Ob River. It was first called Novonikolayevsk in honor of Saint Nicholas and Tsar Nicholas II. The city grew quickly because it became an important transport hub with the building of the Trans-Siberian Railway and a bridge over the Ob River. By 1907, it had more than 47,000 people and gained the right to self-govern. The Russian Civil War (1917-1923) caused a lot of problems, including a decline in population and damage to the city. After the war, it was renamed Novosibirsk in 1926, which means "New Siberia." Under Stalin, the city became a major industrial center. By 1934, it was the largest city in Siberia with 287,000 residents. During World War II, many factories were moved to Novosibirsk to support the war effort. By 1962, the city reached a population of one million, making it the youngest city in the world at that size. Akademgorodok (Siberian branch of theRussian Academy of Sciences) is a remote part of Novosibirsk dedicated to science. 

Suzdal has a fascinating history that starts way back in 1024, when it was mentioned in chronicles for the first time due to a rebellion over bad crops. This uprising caught the attention of Grand Prince Yaroslav the Wise, who stepped in to restore order. The town was already thriving before this event, but it officially became recognized around this time. By the 12th century, Prince Yuri Dolgoruky moved his capital to Suzdal, turning it into a powerful center and building defenses and churches, including the Nativity of the Virgin Mary Cathedral. However, in 1238, Suzdal faced a devastating invasion by the Mongol-Tatars, like many other cities, which left it in ruins for a while. Over the years, different princes ruled, with one even founding a dynasty there. In the 16th century, Suzdal became a religious hub, housing many monasteries, including the one where the former wife of a grand prince became a nun. Sadly, the city suffered during the Time of Troubles, with battles and plagues impacting its growth. By the 18th century, Suzdal was more of a quiet provincial town, especially since it lacked railway connections. However, in the 20th century, it began to transform into a popular tourist destination, with its beautiful architecture and history recognized by UNESCO. 

Vladivostok means 'Lord of the East' or 'Ruler of the East'.  Vladivostok has a rich history that dates back to a Chinese settlement around 600 AD, known as Yongmingcheng, or "city of eternal light." For a long time, Russia sought a stronghold in the Far East, but it wasn't until the mid-19th century that they found the perfect spot. After signing treaties with China, the area was officially named Vladivostok in 1859. On June 20, 1860, a military post was established at Golden Horn Bay, marking the city's official founding. The first civilian settler arrived in 1861, and Vladivostok quickly grew, becoming an important port for the Russian Empire. By the 1890s, the city's population soared, especially after the Trans-Siberian Railway connected it to other regions. However, the early 20th century brought challenges, including wars and political upheaval. After World War I, Vladivostok became a key point for Allied forces during the Russian Civil War. In the years that followed, it transformed into a bustling city, leading to major developments, including hosting the APEC summit in 2012. Today, Vladivostok is known for its stunning views and vibrant culture, despite facing challenges like severe weather events.