Compare Moscow to Baltic States, Poland, Prague & Vienna by CIE Tours vs Russia, Warsaw & The Baltic States - Small Group, 2023 Small Group by Insight Vacations

Day 1: Arrive Moscow

Meals: Dinner

Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure. Tonight, gather with your traveling companions for a Welcome Dinner.

Day 2: In Moscow

Meals: Breakfast

Moscow, one of the largest cities in the world, is the symbolic heart and soul of the country. Your sightseeing tour begins at Red Square, dominated by colorful St. Basil's Cathedral and by the massive red walls of the Kremlin. Visit the Armory Museum, with its impressive collection of Tsarist, Russian, and foreign jewelry, armor, and other artifacts. Then walk by Moscow University. Continue with a drive along the wide boulevards and a stroll through GUM, Russia’s largest department store. Continue, on the north bank of the River Moskva, passing by baroque Novodevichy convent; ending the tour at the popular Arbat shopping district. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Day 3: In Moscow, excursion to Serviev Posad

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Today we travel 75 km North of Moscow, to a small town of Sergiev Posad, former Zagorsk – founded in the 14th century and renowned as a center of ancient Russian art and architecture. For centuries it served as a place of pilgrimage and the religious capital of Russia. Within the old walled city admire the fairy-tale golden and blue domes of the Holy Trinity St. Sergius Lavra, one of the most beautiful of all monasteries. After lunch, return to Moscow, the rest of the day at leisure. This evening take an Optional tour Moscow by night & Subway, to see the metro stations which Stalin called “Palaces for the People.”

Day 4: Moscow to St. Petersburg

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Time at leisure in Moscow, before transfer to railway station for our four hours high speed Sapsan train ride to St. Petersburg. Upon arrival at the St. Petersburg train station, transfer to your hotel. Dinner at hotel.

Day 5: In St. Petersburg

Meals: Breakfast

There are not many cities in the world that can match the grace of St. Petersburg. When Peter the Great founded the city in 1703, he hired Europe’s best architects, craftsmen, and artists to build and decorate it. Spread over 100 islands and linked by over 600 bridges, it is often referred to as the “Venice of the North.” Today the main sites to be visited on the tour are Palace Square with the Winter Palace, Senate Square with the monument to Russian Emperor Peter the Great, the founder of the city, St. Isaac’s Square with St. Isaac’s Cathedral, Smolny Cathedral, Cruiser Aurora, Field of Mars, and Nevsky Prospect. Visit the Peter and Paul Fortress, built in 1703 to protect the city from enemy attacks. Visit Peter and Paul Cathedral, which towers in the center of the fortress served as the burial place for Russian Emperors from Peter I. Your evening is free or join an optional Russian Folklore evening or Evening Canal Cruise.

Day 6: In St. Petersburg

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

This morning you’ll make a highlight visit to the world-famous Hermitage, housing more than four million works of art. It ranks among one of the largest and oldest museums of the world, founded in 1764 by Catherine the Great. Admire the world-famous masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Rafael, Titian, Rembrandt, El Greco, Velasquez, Rubens, Van Dyck, Goya, and French Impressionists. The Hermitage occupies five buildings, the largest is the Winter Palace, the former residence of Russian Emperors. Spend the rest of the day at leisure exploring the city on your own or perhaps you may choose to take an optional tour to visit Catherine Palace & Park in Pushkin or to Petrodvorets, Peterhof Summer Palace of Peter the Great. Tonight, enjoy dinner.

Day 7: To Tallinn

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Today journey will take us to Estonia, where your first stop is Narva, set just across the border with Russia. Continue to Tallinn, Estonia’s capital, situated on the southern coast of the Gulf of Finland.

Day 8: Tallinn to Riga

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

On a walking tour of Tallinn’s Upper and Lower Old Town, visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Next, visit Toompea Castle and see the 14th-century gothic Town Hall. This afternoon, travel to Riga, the capital of Latvia.

Day 9: In Riga

Meals: Breakfast

On a morning sightseeing tour, see Riga Castle, the magnificent Dome Cathedral, St. Jacobs Cathedral, St. Peter’s Church, the Parliament building, Liberty Monument, and the district of Art Nouveau houses. Your afternoon and evening are free.

Day 10: To Vilnius

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Depart this morning for Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania. The rest of the day is at leisure to begin exploring the city with its interesting architecture.

Day 11: In Vilnius

Meals: Breakfast

The city of Vilnius is located on the confluence of the Neris and Velnele Rivers. In Old Vilnius, visit St. Peter and St. Paul’s Church and St. Anne’s Church. View Vilnius University, dating back to 1570, Gediminas' Tower in the Upper Town, and Vilnius Castle. The afternoon is free or you may want to join an optional excursion to Trakai, beautifully set on three lakes.

Day 12: To Warsaw

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Drive through the landscapes of Lithuania on your way to cross the border into Poland. Then take in the Polish countryside, cities, and towns as you head to Warsaw, arriving at the day's end.

Day 13: In Warsaw

Meals: Breakfast

Warsaw, the 700-year-old capital of Poland. A sightseeing tour here includes a drive along the famous Royal Route from magnificent Castle Square to Lazienki Park and Palace, the summer residence of the last king of Poland. Pass by the Palace of Science and Culture (known as a “wedding cake”), the Saxon Gardens, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Monument to the Heroes of the Warsaw Ghetto, and the Barbican. Then on a walking tour, see the Old Town, Old Market Square, and St. John’s Cathedral. The rest of the day is free for a stroll through the city, shopping, relaxing, or perhaps attend an optional late afternoon Chopin concert.

Day 14: To Krakow

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Journey to Czestochowa, known for the blackened picture of St. Mary in the Yasna Gora Monastery, popularly called the "Black Madonna." This afternoon tour haunting Auschwitz-Birkenau, the notorious World War II concentration camp. It is now on the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites. End the day in Krakow.

Day 15: In Krakow

Meals: Breakfast

Your sightseeing tour today starts with a visit to Wawel Hill, viewing the Royal Castle and visiting the Royal Cathedral. Enjoy a walking tour of the Old Town, where you will see the Main Market Square, Renaissance Cloth Hall, and St. Mary's Church. The afternoon is free for a stroll around the city, shopping, or maybe sample some bigos or pierogi in a little café.

Day 16: To Prague

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Drive across the unspoiled Polish countryside, then on over the borders of Slovakia and the Czech Republic. End the day in Prague, with its Baroque churches, promenades, parks, and ancient city walls.

Day 17: In Prague

Meals: Breakfast

Prague has a long and colorful history, from its early days as a bishopric, to becoming the residence of the Bohemian kings, and later the capital of both Bohemia and the Holy Roman Empire. Built across seven hills on both banks of the Vltava River more than 1000 years ago, it is one of the most attractive cities in Europe. Your sightseeing starts with panoramic drive to famous Wenceslas Square, Strahov Stadium, and Castle Square. Then, on a walking tour, visit the Royal Castle of Hradcany with the Cathedral of St. Vitus, the Old Royal Palace, St. George's Basilica and the Golden Lane with the Daliborka Tower. Cross the Charles Bridge and walk through the old quarter of Prague to view the Jewish Ghetto, Town Hall and world-famous Astronomical Clock. The rest of the day is at leisure. You might want to attend an optional cultural performance.

Day 18: To Vienna

Meals: Breakfast

Travel into Austria and on to Vienna, the "City of Waltz." Your time is free to begin exploring or perhaps savor a Viennese pastry or two.

Day 19: In Vienna

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

On a morning sightseeing tour, visit Hofburg Palace, once the center of the Habsburg monarchy, and see Belvedere Palace, Prater Amusement Park, the UN Buildings, St. Stephen's Cathedral, and other remnants of the city's imperial history. The afternoon is free for last-minute shopping. Celebrate tonight with a Farwell Dinner at a popular restaurant.

Day 20: Depart Vienna

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Vienna’s airport for your flight home.

Day 1: Arrive Warsaw

On arrival at Warsaw airport, transfers depart for your hotel at 10:30, 12:30 and 15:30. Relax and settle in before joining your Travel Director at 18:00.Your Welcome Dinner is at Restaurant Zapiecek, an authentic local establishment full of Polish charm that serves traditional meals, accompanied with wine.

Day 2: Exploring the Proud Polish Capital of Warsaw

A Local Expert will show you how well the Polish capital was restored after almost complete obliteration during World War II. This incredible restoration can be credited to the amazing detail of Canaletto's paintings! Pass the tiered Palace of Culture and stroll through Łazienki Park to the Chopin Memorial. Take a moment to reflect at the Monument to Ghetto Heroes, built in 1948 to commemorate the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising of 1943. Then walk to the Market Square in the Old Town. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit the University Botanic Gardens with a biologist. The garden's main function is the protection of biological diversity and the conservation of endangered Polish wild species. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Don't miss the chance to visit Wilanow Palace, the residence of Polish King Sobieski, known as Victor of Vienna, or perhaps attend an exclusive private recital of Chopin music by a celebrated Polish pianist?

Day 3: Vilnius, Venerable Capital of Lithuania

Pass Augustów and Suwalki during your scenic journey through Masuria, a region rich in lakes and vast forests. Cross into Lithuania and continue to the capital city of Vilnius. See the Baroque Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, the neoclassical cathedral and the charming Old Town.

Day 4: Vilnius and the Castle of Trakai

Walk along the streets of bohemian Užupis, a Vilnius neighbourhood that proclaimed itself a republic in 2002. A member of the government introduces you to its quirky history and artistic flair. A highlight of your travels will be a visit to the fortified island castle of Trakai. Originally built in the 15th century and now restored to all its glory, this red-brick castle is located on an island in Lake Galvė. Choose from a hand-picked selection of local restaurants for your Dine-Around Evening.

Day 5: The Art Nouveau Nirvana of Riga

Head north to visit the unusual Votive Hill of Crosses near Siauliai, the symbol of resistance against the Soviet occupation.Continue your journey to the Latvian capital of Riga, a melange of Teutonic-inspired spires, stylish cocktail lounges and some of the world’s most remarkable art nouveau architecture.

Day 6: Riga and onto Tallinn

Explore Riga's Old Town with your Local Expert, including a visit to the old aircraft hangars that now house the Riga Central Market, one of the largest in Eastern Europe. Enjoy the vibrant colours and flavours when sampling some of the local delicacies as you wander through the maze of stalls.Your travels continue along the shores of the Gulf of Riga and across the Estonian border to reach Tallinn. Hailed by travel aficionados as the new Prague, Tallinn is a lively city, where history and modern culture merge. From its brightly coloured architecture to its quirky art scenes, Tallinn is made for the curious and creative.

Day 7: Surrender to the Magic of Tallinn Relaxed Start

Explore Tallinn with Insight Choice. Choose a scenic walking tour of the city with your Local Expert, complete with panoramic views. Alternatively, take a stroll through the fairy-tale Old Town to discover Estonian artisans. Enjoy free time to browse Tallinn’s shops, famous for fine amber and silver jewellery. Join your travelling companions at a local restaurant for a freshly prepared meal, rich with traditional flavours and accompanied by wine.

Day 8: St Petersburg: To Russia with Love

Head east to the town of Narva, dominated by the mighty Hermannsburg Fortress. Cross the River Narva, which forms the Russian border, and continue to St. Petersburg, founded by Peter the Great in 1703.For your first meal in Russia, enjoy a friendly dinner with wine at a local restaurant.

Day 9: 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 Savior on Spilled Blood.The rest of the day is yours to explore. Perhaps join an Optional Experience to the small town of Tsarskoe Selo, now called Pushkin, and visit the beautiful Catherine Palace? Or, if you’d prefer to relax, head back to your hotel where you can make the most of its luxury facilities.

Day 10: Petrodvorets by Hydrofoil Relaxed Start

Cruise by hydrofoil along the Baltic shore to Peter the Great’s summer residence of Petrodvorets. For over 200 years it was used for official ceremonies, lavish feasts and formal receptions. Explore the perfectly manicured gardens and see the cascading fountains. 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. Later you are at leisure, or perhaps visit the former residence of the Yusupov family and the scene of Rasputin's murder?

Day 11: The Hermitage Museum Relaxed Start

Located in the Winter Palace, the Hermitage is one of the world’s greatest museums. Marvel at this 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 12: 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 swoop 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.

Day 13: 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 to visit an ornate metro station with your Local Expert or alternatively, take 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?

Day 14: Moscow and The Kremlin Relaxed Start

In the morning you are at leisure to relax or explore the Russian capital as you wish. 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 within the walls of the Kremlin Fortress to visit one of the cathedrals. Later, enjoy delicious food, great wine and wonderful company as you toast to your travels during your Celebration Dinner.

Day 15: Farewell Moscow

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.