Classic Russia

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(Begins in St. Petersburg and ends in Moscow)

You are entering Russia through her famous "window on the west", St. Petersburg. Your journey ends at the heart of Russia with a private tour of the Kremlin.

Day 1
We begin this Russian tour with a 3 to 4 hour tour of St. Petersburg. This tour is aimed to give an overview of this enchanting city by getting a look at its most spectacular and noted sites, including the world-famous Nevsky Prospect with the exquisite palaces of Russian royalty and aristocracy, majestic cathedrals and fair-sized squares, imposing bridges and other landmarks.

Day 2
Today you will travel a little out of St. Petersburg to Tsarskoe Selo.
The palace and park complex of Tsarskoye Selo is located twenty-five kilometers south of St.Petersburg. More than 100 architectural objects that cover the total area of 300 hectares occupy the territory of the Catherine and Alexander Parks: from the most magnificent palaces and monuments, to pavilions and bridges. This was the location of the famous "Amber Room" stolen by the fascists during WWII. The Amber Room has since been recreated and the exhibition was opened in 2003.

Day 3
We begin the day with a guided tour to the Hermitage – one of the oldest and largest museums in the world. Regarded to be found in 1764, museum comprises 5 historical buildings of St.Petersburg, including the Winter Palace – the former residence of Russian tsars and the Hermitage theatre – the only building which is not occupied by the museum collections, containing 3 million works of art, that represent different ages, countries and people. Following lunch we take a guided tour to the Yusupov Palace built on the Moika Embankment for Princes Yusupov, the richest aristocratic family in Russia. The palace is noted not only for the refined luxury and exquisite taste of its interior decorations, but also as a historical site tied to the fall of the imperial Russia. Gala and residential rooms of the palace witnessed one of Russian history’s moments of high drama – the murder of Gregory Rasputin in December 1916.  You will see as well the Rasputin exposition: wax figures of the conspirators - the Russian noblemen who participated in the drama and the cellar, where the assassination took place. Tonight you board the overnight train to Moscow.

Day 4

Arriving in Moscow you will be met by your guide at the station and taken to your hotel for early check in. Following this will be a 3 hour Moscow city tour including Red square. The afternoon is free.
Evening free (Optional evening entertainment can include circus or theater when available)

Day 5
Today you will travel to Sergiev Posad (about 60k NE of Moscow)
The religious center of modern Russia established in the middle of the 14th century, Sergiev Posad is often referred to as the "Russian Vatican". You will be taken on a tour of the monastery, including the unique churches located on its grounds. Lunch will be available in the monastery. A great opportunity to buy authentic souvenirs. Return to Moscow.
Evening free (Optional evening entertainment can include circus or theater when available)

Day 6
In the morning  we will visit Kolomenskoe Park the 257-hectare estate which served as a country residence for the Russian Tsars from Ivan III to Peter I. Following a light lunch Russian blini (pancakes), that come with an assortment of toppings from caviar to honey, we shall take a visit to the Sculpture Garden opposite Gorky Park on the banks of the Moscow River.

Day 7
The day begins with a 4hr private tour of the Kremlin which includes The Armory, The Diamond Fund and three of the Great Cathedrals. We then go to a cozy restaurant to sample some traditional Russian cuisine. The remainder of the afternoon will be free.

Day 8
Transfer to Airport
Depart Moscow

Notes

Accommodation is 4 Star hotel in Moscow (Usually Ukraina or Rosia). We offer apartment accommodation in St.  Petersburg but hotel is available on request. Concert or circus tickets are not included as they are subject to seasonable availability. If you have a special interest please let us know so that we can make advance arrangements. Your host for your tour will be flexible with the schedule to get the most out of weather fluctuations and special interests. Museum tickets are included. Apart from breakfast, only meals mentioned in the tour description are included in the price.

Prices*

*Prices can vary according to season and exchange rates.  Prices based on SINGLE occupancy. Significant savings for couples and families. Contact us for an exact quote.  Includes full visa support. Airfare not included