Compare Russia family adventure by Audley Travel vs Easy Pace Russia with Christmas Markets - Classic Group, Winter 2022 2023 Classic Group by Insight Vacations
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| Trip |
5 | Excellent
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Easy Pace Russia with Christmas Markets - Classic Group, Winter 2022 2023 Classic Group
by
Insight Vacations
5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 8 days | 8 days |
| Price From | $ 3,620 | $ 2,225 |
| Price Per Day | $ 453 | $ 278 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Private guided tour | Group tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Basic |
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | Airfare included |
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| Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
| Description |
Russia’s main cities feel broadly European, but its history tells a different story due to the singular political path the country forged in the 20th century, which lives on in the bold Stalinist buildings that pepper Moscow. Our specialists are skilled at crafting Russia holidays that take in all the country’s paradoxes. They can help you delve into St Petersburg, advising you on which imperial palaces to visit, and how to avoid the crowds. In Moscow, they can indicate more unusual ways to experience the city (such as night river cruises), and they know where to find the best skyline views. |
Set out from St. Petersburg with your local Travel Director and expert in all things Russian, on an exploration of the city's iconic architecture—including the onion-domed Church of Our Savior on Spilled Blood. After free time to explore picturesque Pushkin and the site of Rasputin's infamous demise, carve through the Baltic waves on a high-speed hydrofoil to the lavish grounds of Peter the Great's Petrodvorets Gardens. A speedy Sapspan train transplants you to Moscow in style, and begins a unique expert led exploration of the city—taking in the Kremlin, Red Square and Lenin's Mausoleum. |
Day 1 : Moscow
Today you begin your journey by boarding your international outbound flight to Moscow. Upon arrival at the airport you'll be met by your guide and driven to your hotel.
Day 2 : Moscow
This morning start exploring the city with a visit to the magnificent Kremlin and the Armoury Museum. The afternoon is at leisure - we suggest visiting the nearby Gorky Park.
Day 3 : Moscow
This morning visit the Central Museum of Armed Forces - perfect for the boys in your family. Alternatively if that does not appeal we can arrange a visit to a gallery.
Day 4 : St Petersburg
After a leisurely morning, transfer to the station for your journey to St Petersburg. On arrival your guide will meet you and escort you to your hotel.
Day 5 : St Petersburg
Start exploring the city with a visit to the Peter and Paul fortress today - the birth place of St Petersburg. Onsite at the fortress is the impressive Peter and Paul Cathedral, the burial place of all the Russian Emperors and Empresses from Peter the Great. The afternoon is at leisure.
Day 6 : St Petersburg
This morning take a tour of the Hermitage with your guide - with the possible exception of the Louvre, there is no museum in the world that rivals the Hermitage in size and quality. Afternoon is free if you want to continue browsing. In the evening we can arrange ballet tickets.
Day 7 : St Petersburg
Today visit the beautiful fountained gardens and palace of Peterhof - the Summer residence of Peter the Great. You will travel there by hydrofoil for spectacular views of the city and return to your hotel by car.
Day 8 : International return flight
Your journey ends on a high note - a drive out from the city takes you to the staggeringly opulent Tsar's Village, where you visit the Summer Palace of Catherine the Great. From here you continue to the airport for your return flight. Your return flight will arrive the same day.
Day 1: Welcome to St. Petersburg
Airport transfers depart from St. Petersburg airport at 14:30 and 17:00.Meet your Travel Director and travel companions at 19:00 for a friendly Welcome Dinner served with wine at a local restaurant.
Day 2: St.Petersburg Sightseeing
Morning sightseeing with your Local Expert includes views of St. Isaac's Cathedral, the fortress of St. Peter and Paul and Decembrists' Square. Travel along Nevsky Prospekt for views of the great Cathedral of Kazan and the iconic, onion-domed Church of Our Saviour on Spilled Blood. Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the world-famous Alexandrinsky Theatre with a member of the production team. Visit the royal box and see an exhibition of authentic costumes. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience and visit a local ceramist workshop supporting vulnerable youth. The rest of the day is yours to explore. Perhaps experience the festivities of the annual International Winter Festival where St. Petersburg showcases an array of culture from the regions of Russia, combined with Christmas traditions from all over the world?
Day 3: The City of Tsars Relaxed Start
In the little town of Pushkin, visit St. Catherine’s Palace with a Local Expert. A ‘Golden Enfilade’ of suites lead to the restored Amber Room, a truly unique and spectacular chamber solely decorated with amber panels, gold leaves and mirrors. Later, cross the Neva River to Peter and Paul Fortress, where St. Petersburg’s foundation stone was laid in 1703. With a Local Expert, visit the fortress to see the imperial tombs of the Romanov rulers and learn the secrets of Russian history.
Day 4: The Hermitage Museum Relaxed Start
Located in the Winter Palace, the Hermitage is one of the world’s greatest museums. Marvel at its fabulous collection of paintings and ornaments, ranging from Egyptian carvings to impressionist masterpieces.The rest of the day is at your leisure to explore, shop or relax.
Day 5: High-Speed Sapsan Train to Moscow Relaxed Start
Enjoy a relaxed start in the morning, or perhaps visit the former residence of the Yusupov family and the scene of Rasputin's murder? Later, board your high-speed Sapsan train and relax in modern luxury and comfort as you travel to Moscow in just a few hours. On arrival in this fascinating city, you are transferred to your hotel for a leisurely three-night stay. Famous for its unique history and colourful architecture, explore Moscow’s enchanting city centre and get lost in its captivating Modern art scene.
Day 6: Moscow, a Russian Revelation Relaxed Start
Begin your exploration of the Russian capital with a Local Expert. Start in Red Square, lined by Moscow's landmark buildings. At one end rises the onion-shaped domes of St. Basil's Cathedral, in front of the Kremlin stands Lenin's Mausoleum, while on the opposite side, the grand GUM department store offers a variety of glamorous goods. Explore Moscow with Insight Choice. Choose between visiting an ornate metro station or alternatively, join your Local Expert for a stroll through the popular Zaryadye Park and enjoy great views of your surroundings. In your free time, why not witness the crown jewels and Fabergé Egg collection of the Imperial Russian Family? In your free time, you may like to wrap up warm and venture out to explore the dazzling festivities of the Christmas season. Snow-covered stalls are crowned with twinkling fairylights, while vendors serve warm drinks and food. When Moscow’s Journey into Christmas begins, each district becomes part of the festival, offering everything from exciting street shows and concerts, to master cooking classes of traditional Russian foods. There really is something for everyone.
Day 7: Exploring the Kremlin Relaxed Start
In the morning you are at leisure to relax or explore the Russian capital as you wish. The Christmas Markets offer plenty of unique art pieces and classic Russian ornaments. Perhaps visit the Borodino Panorama Exhibition, or take an Optional Experience to the renowned centre of ancient Russian art and architecture, Zagorsk? In the afternoon, walk inside the walls of the Kremlin Fortress to visit one of the cathedrals as well as the Armoury Chamber. Later, enjoy delicious food, great wine and wonderful company as you toast to your travels during your Celebration Dinner.
Day 8: Farewell Moscow
It’s time to say goodbye to Moscow and your fellow travellers. Departure transfers will arrive at Moscow's Sheremetyevo Airport at 05:00, 08:00 and 11:00 and at Moscow's Domodedovo Airport at 05:00, 10:00 and 13:00.
