In Russia it might be difficult as a tourist to use payment cards. Therefore we recommend that you exchange your Russian rubles before travelling to Russia. Cash is widely used. For instance taxis, kiosks and restaurants might only accept cash. Since the price level in larger cities is quite high, it is easy to use notes of larger denomination. In the small towns of Karelia it may not be possible to pay with payment cards at all. You can find ATM:s easily in the bigger cities but cash withdraws are subject to surcharges in Russia. Tip! The most popular travel destinations in Russia, St. Petersburg and Moscow are even more expensive than Helsinki. The price level is lower in Vyborg and Carelia.