The article is about the study of "tourism" actual phenomenon, it is now recognized by the authorities of the Russian Federation as one of the Russian Federation economy priority branches. A significant role of tourism at the world level is also recognized by authoritative scientists and some large foreign tourist organizations (for example, the World Tourism Organization, experts of the World Economic Forum). The conducted research shows the scope of tourism as factors variety results. The study proved that Russia is currently a donor of world tourist flows, that is, Russian citizens' outflows exceed domestic ones. At the same time, making outcoming tourist trips Russians make significant expenses on tourism in the countries visited, while foreign tourists are distinguished with moderate expenses for international tourism. The study also showed that not only Russia has a significant untapped natural and recreational potential, but also countries of Central and Eastern Europe. As the findings have shown, the development of tourism is also affected with political, economic, environmental factors, the availability of natural and recreational and cultural-historical resources, the level of necessary infrastructure development, personnel and information support, socio-demographic factors. In addition to the factors, the author identifies actual problems and trends in the tourism industry development.