8 Days of Imperial Russia (Moscow & St Petersburg)

Upon arrival in Moscow, meet with the driver and transfer to the hotel for drop off. In the afternoon, embark on a luxurious Radisson Royal Yacht river cruise along the scenic Moscow River, offering a unique perspective of the city's most iconic landmarks. As glide past the Kremlin walls, Novodevichy Monastery, Luzhniki Stadium, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, and the futuristic Moscow-City complex, take in the breathtaking views while enjoying the comfort of a first-class yacht experience. The cruise lasts approximately two hours, providing an unforgettable introduction to Moscow. After the cruise, return to the hotel.

Today’s comprehensive Moscow city tour covers the most famous sights of the Russian capital. Stroll through the historic Red Square, admire the colorful domes of St. Basil’s Cathedral, and visit the grand Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, an architectural masterpiece. Drive along the Kremlin embankment and take in the stunning views of the Moscow skyline from Sparrow Hills, where Moscow State University, one of Stalin’s Seven Sisters skyscrapers, stands majestically. The tour also includes a visit to the lively Arbat Street, known for its charming boutiques, street artists, and local cafés. In the afternoon, step inside the Moscow Kremlin, the historic heart of the city and the official residence of the President of Russia. Explore its impressive cathedrals, palaces, and squares, including Assumption Cathedral, Archangel Cathedral, and Annunciation Cathedral, where Russian tsars were crowned and buried. After the Kremlin visit, enjoy a leisurely walking tour around the city center, soaking in Moscow’s dynamic atmosphere. Return to the hotel in the evening.

Meet with the guide and travel to the Museum of Cosmonautics, a fascinating place dedicated to Russia’s achievements in space exploration. The museum showcases an extensive collection of space technology, including real spacecraft, suits worn by cosmonauts, and models of the Sputnik satellite and Lunar Rover. Located near VDNH (Exhibition of Achievements of National Economy), the museum is part of one of Moscow’s most remarkable cultural and historical complexes, rich with Soviet-era architecture and grand pavilions. Next, embark on an underground journey through the Moscow Metro, famous for its lavish, palace-like stations adorned with chandeliers, mosaics, marble columns, and Soviet-era sculptures. In the afternoon, visit the State Tretyakov Gallery, Russia’s foremost museum of classical Russian art, housing a vast collection of paintings, icons, and sculptures by legendary artists. After the museum visit, return to the hotel in the evening.

In the morning, meet with the driver and transfer to the railway station for a comfortable high-speed train journey from Moscow to Saint Petersburg, Russia’s former imperial capital. Upon arrival, meet the local guide and begin a city tour showcasing the “Venice of the North” due to its elegant canals and bridges. Discover the city’s rich architectural heritage as drive along Nevsky Prospekt, the main avenue lined with palaces, cathedrals, and historic landmarks. Admire the Winter Palace, Kazan Cathedral, Senate Square, and the Bronze Horseman statue dedicated to Peter the Great. Marvel at the harmonious blend of Baroque, Neoclassical, and Russian Revival architecture, which gives Saint Petersburg its unique charm. After the tour, transfer to the hotel for drop off.

Start the day with a visit to the Peter and Paul Fortress, the first structure built in 1703 by Peter the Great. Initially designed as a military stronghold, the fortress later became a political prison for high-profile figures. Within the fortress, explore the Peter and Paul Cathedral, the burial site of Russian emperors. Next, visit St. Isaac’s Cathedral, one of the most magnificent churches in the world. Constructed over 40 years, the cathedral features a breathtaking golden dome, impressive colonnades, and intricate mosaics. Afterward, continue to the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, a stunning Russian Orthodox church built on the site where Emperor Alexander II was assassinated in 1881. Its vibrant onion domes, intricate mosaics, and rich history make it one of Saint Petersburg’s most iconic landmarks. After the tour, return to the hotel.

Embark on a full-day excursion to the Peterhof Palace and Gardens, often called the “Russian Versailles”. Commissioned by Peter the Great, this UNESCO-listed complex boasts majestic palaces, meticulously landscaped parks, and the famous Grand Cascade with over 150 fountains. Explore the luxurious Grand Palace, filled with gilded interiors, lavish chandeliers, and historical artifacts. In the afternoon, visit the town of Pushkin, home to the magnificent Catherine Palace, a dazzling blue-and-white Rococo masterpiece. Inside, marvel at the legendary Amber Room, an opulent chamber adorned with intricately carved amber panels. Stroll through the vast palace gardens, dotted with charming pavilions, bridges, and serene ponds. Return to Saint Petersburg in the evening.

Enjoy a free day to explore Saint Petersburg at own pace. This day is open for personal activities, and no guide or transportation is provided.

After breakfast, check out from the hotel. Meet with the driver at the lobby and transfer to the airport for departure, marking the end of an unforgettable journey through the cultural and historical treasures of Moscow and Saint Petersburg.