One of the most popular souvenirs purchased in Russia is a Matryoshka doll. A Matryoshka doll consists of a wooden doll which can be pulled apart to reveal another figure of the same sort inside. Some also refer to the dolls as babushka dolls or stacking dolls.
You will find Matryoshka dolls all over Russia, however the doll did not originate there. The first doll dates from 1890 and is said to come from Japan. Russian had used the “nesting” concept in their Faberge eggs, as well as carved wooden apples and easter eggs. Today they come in several shapes, sizes and themes.
If you plan to purchase dolls while in Russia, make sure and open them and check each one carefully that no damage has been done to the paint inside, and that each doll opens easily.
We invite you to visit our Russia travel guide to learn more interesting facts about this fascinating country.
Planning Your Next Trip with Atlas Travel Center
At Atlas Travel Center, we’ve spent over 35 years helping travelers turn ideas like the one in this post into fully realized journeys. Whether you’re reading this as inspiration for a trip you’re already planning or as the first seed of a travel dream, our advisors are here to take it from concept to confirmation — handling every detail along the way.
What sets Atlas apart isn’t just our longevity in the business — it’s the depth of expertise we bring to every booking. Our agents are specialists, not generalists. Many have personal experience at the destinations they recommend, onboard the ships they book, and with the tour operators they partner with. When you work with an Atlas advisor, you’re getting counsel grounded in real experience, not just what’s on a website.
Why Work with a Travel Advisor in the Age of Online Booking?
Online booking tools have made it easier than ever to assemble a trip — and also easier than ever to make an expensive mistake. The lowest price on a comparison site often omits a resort fee, books a room category you wouldn’t choose if you saw the photos, or locks you into a cancellation policy that offers no flexibility. Our advisors know the inventory, the fine print, and the suppliers well enough to navigate all of it on your behalf.
More importantly, when something goes wrong — a flight cancels, a ship changes its itinerary, a resort overbooks — a travel advisor is the difference between hours on hold with an 800 number and a quick call to someone who knows exactly who to call. We’ve been solving those problems for clients since 1987, and we’re very good at it.
Start Planning with Atlas
Contact Atlas Travel Center to speak with one of our experienced travel advisors. We’re CLIA-certified, ARC-accredited, and have maintained an A+ BBB rating for over 35 years. Whatever kind of travel experience you’re envisioning, we’d love to help you make it happen.







