MOSCOW & ST. PETERSBURG
Day 1 - Thu. BOARD YOUR OVERNIGHT TRANSATLANTIC FLIGHT. Day 2 - Fri. ARRIVAL IN MOSCOW, RUSSIA. Check into your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the Russian capital. Tonight, meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers. (D) Day 3 - Sat. and Sun. MOSCOW. Sightseeing with a Local Guide this morning will include a drive into Red Square, then a walk past St. Basil's, a visit to the Kremlin and one of its cathedrals, and finally one of Moscow's famed underground Metro stations. Free time to join other optional activities or do your own exploring of Russia's fascinating capital. (B daily) Day 4 - Sat. and Sun. MOSCOW. Sightseeing with a Local Guide this morning will include a drive into Red Square, then a walk past St. Basil's, a visit to the Kremlin and one of its cathedrals, and finally one of Moscow's famed underground Metro stations. Free time to join other optional activities or do your own exploring of Russia's fascinating capital. (B daily) Day 5 - Mon. MOSCOW. INCLUDED EXCURSION TO SERGIYEV POSAD-OVERNIGHT TRAIN TO ST. PETERSBURG. Enjoy a day excursion which will include a visit to "The Trinity Monastery of St. Sergiyev," founded by St. Sergiyev, one of Russia's most revered holy men. To this day thousands flock to the monastery not only as an act of religious belief but also to see what is one of Russia's greatest and most splendid architectural treasures. It is also used by film makers because of its five-tiered Bell Tower, uniquely beautiful and equally photogenic. After dinner in Moscow, transfer to the station for your overnight train to St. Petersburg. (B,L,D) Day 6 - Tue. ST. PETERSBURG. After arrival in St. Petersburg enjoy breakfast before the included visit to the Peterhof Palace and its gardens. This historic building was almost totally destroyed during World War II and most lovingly restored to its original splendor just a few years ago. (B,L) Day 7 - Wed. ST. PETERSBURG. See the highlights on the city tour with a Local Guide. Created in 1703 by Peter the Great, this city was made the capital of all the Russias. Although not one of Russia's oldest, it is steeped in history, particularly from the early 20th century to the end of the World War II when it endured one of the longest and cruelest sieges in modern history. A whole afternoon to do some individual exploring and get to know more about this fascinating city. (B) Day 8 - Thu. ST. PETERSBURG. There is no greater attraction in this city than a visit to the Hermitage Museum, housed in the Winter Palace built by the Swiss/Italian architect Rastrelli in 1754 during Empress Elizabeth's reign. It remained the home of the imperial Russian Royal Family up to 1917. Its collection of paintings spans all eras and is particularly well known for its French Impressionist and modern art. The inside architecture is of outstanding beauty; note the magnificent Jordan staircase. A day to be remembered. (B) Day 9 - Fri. YOUR HOMEBOUND FLIGHT ARRIVES THE SAME DAY. (B) |
