Russia can be an exciting and enriching experience. The country is vast, diverse, and offers a blend of history, culture, nature, and modernity. Below is a sample itinerary covering some of Russia's most iconic cities and landmarks. This itinerary can be customized depending on your interests and the time you have available.
Day 1: Arrival in Moscow
Morning:
- Red Square: Start your day in the heart of Moscow at Red Square. Visit iconic landmarks like the Kremlin, St. Basil's Cathedral, and Lenin's Mausoleum. The colorful domes of St. Basil's Cathedral are one of Russia's most recognizable symbols.
- GUM Department Store: After exploring the square, take a walk through the GUM shopping mall, which is an architectural gem.
Afternoon:
- Kremlin: Visit the Moscow Kremlin complex, which includes Cathedral Square, Armory Chamber (home to Russian royal treasures), and the Tsar Bell and Tsar Cannon.
- Alexander Garden: Relax in the garden near the Kremlin, and see the Eternal Flame and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Evening:
- Arbat Street: Walk along this historic pedestrian street, lined with cafes, shops, and street performers.
- Dinner: Try traditional Russian food at a local restaurant like Mari Vanna or Dr. Zhivago, where you can sample dishes like borscht, pelmeni (dumplings), or beef stroganoff.
Day 2: Moscow
Morning:
- Tretyakov Gallery: Visit the State Tretyakov Gallery, one of the world’s most important collections of Russian art. It’s the perfect place to learn more about Russian history and culture through art.
- Cathedral of Christ the Savior: Visit this stunning cathedral, which is the largest in Russia and offers beautiful views of the Moscow River.
Afternoon:
- VDNH (Vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva): This vast exhibition center is home to Soviet architecture, museums, and large sculptures. Don’t miss the Space Pavilion or the Worker and Kolkhoz Woman statue.
- Moscow Metro Tour: Explore some of the Moscow metro stations, which are known for their ornate and grand designs. Stations like Komsomolskaya and Mayakovskaya are particularly impressive.
Evening:
- Moscow River Cruise: Take a scenic boat ride along the Moscow River to see the city’s skyline from the water, especially beautiful at sunset.
- Dinner: Consider dining at a restaurant with a view, such as Sixty, located on the 62nd floor of a Moscow skyscraper.
Day 3: Moscow to St. Petersburg
Morning:
- Take a high-speed train (Sapsan) or flight from Moscow to St. Petersburg (approximately 4 hours by train or 1.5 hours by flight).
- Upon arrival, drop off your bags at your hotel and start exploring.
Afternoon:
- Nevsky Prospect: St. Petersburg's main avenue, Nevsky Prospect, is lined with grand buildings, shops, and cafes. It’s a great place for a stroll and to get a feel of the city.
- Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood: Visit this ornate church built on the site where Emperor Alexander II was assassinated. Its colorful onion domes and mosaics are spectacular.
- Russian Museum: A great place to view Russian art from the 10th century to the present day, showcasing a diverse range of cultural influences.
Evening:
- Dinner on the Neva River: Have dinner at a restaurant by the river, such as Podvorye or Palkin, and enjoy views of the canals and bridges.
Day 4: St. Petersburg
Morning:
- The Hermitage Museum: Spend the morning at the Hermitage, one of the largest and oldest art museums in the world. The Winter Palace, which houses the Hermitage, is itself a magnificent piece of history. You can easily spend several hours here, exploring art from Ancient Egypt to modern times.
Afternoon:
- Peter and Paul Fortress: This historic fortress was the site of many significant events in Russian history. You can explore the Peter and Paul Cathedral (the burial place of Russian tsars) and walk around the fortress grounds.
- Catherine Palace (Pushkin): Take a short trip outside the city to visit the opulent Catherine Palace, known for the famous Amber Room and its beautiful gardens. It's about a 30-minute drive from the city center.
Evening:
- Canal Cruise: St. Petersburg is often called the "Venice of the North," so a canal cruise is a perfect way to end your trip. You'll see many of the city’s architectural wonders from the water.
- Farewell Dinner: Have a final dinner at a classy restaurant like White Rabbit or Teplo, where you can enjoy modern Russian cuisine.
INCLUSION
Ø All flight services
Ø Airport/Hotel/Airport Transfers on PVT Basis
Ø Dedicated Private Vehicle with Driver Throughout the Trip
Ø Dedicated English-Speaking Guide Throughout the Trip
Ø Travel Insurance (Valid till the Age of 60 Yrs.)
Ø Sightseeing as Mentioned in the Itinerary
Ø Hotel Taxes
EXCLUSION
Ø Visa charges
Ø Departure PCR test, if applicable
Ø Hotel promotional rates not valid during blackout periods/surcharge dates/stop sales on hotel
Ø Tourism tax (if applicable)
Ø TCS & GST
Ø Midnight surcharge
Ø Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Ø Pre & post-tour services & cost
Ø Expenditure of a personal nature (e.g., minibar, laundry, telephone calls, camera fees, etc.)
Ø All drinks and beverages
Ø Any tips (for guide and driver)
Ø Anything not mentioned in the inclusions