Russia Considers Adding QR Codes Along Highways to Promote Local Landmarks
A new proposal would let travelers scan roadside codes to learn about nearby attractions and services as they drive through different regions.
QR codes could soon become part of Russia’s national road network. At the first meeting between Transport Minister Andrey Nikitin and representatives of regional municipalities, officials proposed adding digital markers along federal highways that would display information about local landmarks, historical sites, and regional services.
The idea builds on a trend already spreading across Russia. Moscow was among the first cities to introduce QR codes on monuments, historic buildings, and tourist areas, allowing visitors to instantly access background information and multimedia guides. Extending the system to highways, officials say, would help travelers explore the country’s cultural heritage on the go and promote regional tourism.
Public Transport Goes Digital
The proposal was discussed during the “Transport and Road Activities” conference, held at the Russian University of Transport, where participants also explored the future of urban mobility. Nikitin noted that 70 percent of all passenger transport in Russia is handled by public transit—and emphasized the need to make it more comfortable and high-tech.
Cities across the country are already upgrading their fleets with new buses and trolleybuses equipped with phone chargers, digital displays, and smart payment validators. The modernization push reflects a broader shift toward digital infrastructure, both on the road and in the vehicles that move millions of Russians every day.
