View Reverse Itinerary
Board your overnight flight to St. Petersburg
Day 2, ARRIVE IN ST.PETERSBURG, RUSSIA
Arrive in St. Petersburg and embark the ship. Rest in your stateroom or explore the city before meeting your fellow travelers at the Welcome Cocktail Reception. (D)
Day 3, ST. PETERSBURG
One of Russia's former capitals, this city rivals Paris or Venice for its romantic image. Dating from the beginning of the 18th century it was built on the express orders and construction direction of Peter the Great. The city is home to many museums, galleries, palaces, impressive squares and streets. Your sightseeing tour of this beautiful city will show you Nevsky Prospect, Palace Square, St. Isaacs Cathedral and the battle-cruiser Aurora. Later, tour the Hermitage museum, the former Palace of the Czars, which houses the royal art collection of over 3 million works of art; it is one of the biggest and most impressive art museums in the world. (B,L,D)
Day 4, ST. PETERSBURG
Today, tour St. Petersburg's most famous and spectacular Imperial Estate - Peterhof. Nestled on the shore of the Gulf of Finland, the palace was built by Peter the Great initially as a resting place en route to the Imperial naval base. But the Czar was quick to recognize the attractiveness of the area and masterminded a vast estate intended to rival the famous gardens of Versailles. In your free time absorb the atmosphere of its vibrant cultural life. Tonight explore some more on your own, or come along for an optional folklore show. (B,L,D)
Day 5, ST. PETERSBURG
A day at leisure to shop, or stroll along one of the many picturesque canals or join the optional excursion tour to Pushkin and the Palace of Catherine the Great.
Day 6, MANDROGUI
Mandrogui is a recreated Russian village, built to relive the traditions and crafts of Russia's by gone age. Enjoy some free time strolling around this quaint village and maybe tour the museum of it's locally produced Vodka and even sample some yourself. (B,L,D)
Day 7, KIZHI ISLAND
Kizhi is situated at the north end of Lake Onega and home to some of the most amazing wooden architecture in Russia. Forever linked to Novgorod the Great, the style of architecture reflects its early introduction to Christianity. In 1764 locals built the Church of Intercession, its towering walls and 22 domes without the use of a single nail. The walking tour will include the Museum of Wooden Architecture. (B,L,D)
Day 8, GORITZY
Goritsy is a peaceful farming town and a typical Russian village. The tour will include the Monastery of St. Cyril on the White lake and the Museum of Icons. (B,L,D)
Day 9, YAROSLAVL
Founded in 1010 by Prince Yaroslav the Wise, it is one of Russia's oldest cities, tracing its roots back to the Viking Russ. The city stretches for miles along the confluence of Volga and Kotorosl rivers. Explore the cities history through its architecture, including the fortified 12th century Transfiguration Monastery and the Church of Elijah the Prophet, home to many beautiful icons. (B,L,D)
Day 10, KOSTROMA
Located on the left banks of the Volga River, this Golden Ring city is as old as Moscow. Its picturesque suburbs have long been a source of inspiration for many Russian artists. It was here that the last Imperial dynasty, the Romanovs' came to power. Your tour will include the Ipatiev Monastery, the Museum of Wooden Architecture and much of the 18th century buildings beloved of Catherine the Great. (B,L,D)
Day 11, UGLICH
On the banks of the Volga, Uglich was founded by merchants, in 1148. Rich in history you can admire some of Russia's most beautiful churches and cathedrals during your city tour. This will include the Transfiguration Cathedral and the magnificent commerative Church of Dimitry on the blood, with its tragic story of dedication to Ivan the Terribles' son. (B,L,D)
Day 12, MOSCOW
Today's sightseeing, of Russia's beautiful capital city, founded in 1147, includes the Red Square, St.Basils cathedral, the Lenin Hills, the Tverskaya, the Lubyanka Square (KGB building) and Arbat Street, followed by a visit on the Moscow Metro. (B,L,D)
Day 13, MOSCOW
After breakfast, your sightseeing continues with a tour inside the Kremlins Walls. Your tour will introduce to the former royal residence of the Czar and main-centre of the Russian Orthodox faith. You will visit the Armory Museum, Russia's oldest museum, which houses the former royal collection, a wide collection of treasures, including jewels, crowns, armor and the world famous Faberge Eggs and royal carriages. This afternoon you will visit the Tretyakov Art Museum. (B,L,D)
Day 14, MOSCOW
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)
