Volga River Cruise and Two Capitals
On this mesmerising and romantic Moscow to St Petersburg river cruise, you’ll take in the sights, sounds and history of Russia’s heartland from the comfort of a stunning 5-star modern cruise vessel. After three days of touring the must-see sights of Moscow, we’ll sail through the Moscow Canal which connects the city to the majestic Volga River, the longest river in Europe. Heading north, you’ll experience the contrast between life in a heaving megacity and the languid pace of the gorgeous Russian countryside. Traversing the Volga with port calls in the timeless townships of Russia’s ancient Golden Ring, our Russian river cruise finishes in the glittering far northern metropolis of St Petersburg, one of the world’s most beautiful cities.
Moscow to St Petersburg Volga river cruise highlights:
- Highlights of Moscow: Enjoy guided excursions to the most lauded landmarks of the Russian capital. Walk the Red Square, enter the halls of the imposing Kremlin and marvel at the works of the Russian masters at the Tretyakov Gallery
- Uglich: One of the most magnificent towns to behold from the Volga, with its brightly painted Kremlin standing proudly along the waters' edge, Uglich is home to the Church of St Dmitry, where the last heir of Ivan the Terrible met his mysterious demise
Arrival
Departure
Accomodation
Trip style
Moscow
St Petersburg
MS Volga Dream
River cruise
Duration
Action rating
Group size
Type of tour
13 days / 12 nights
up to 100 passangers
Scheduled
Itinerary View map
Day 1: Welcome to Moscow
Welcome to Moscow! Upon your arrival a private transfer to a five-star hotel in the historic city centre near the Bolshoi Theatre and Moscow Kremlin. Enjoy a warm-up meeting with your guide and fellow guests.
Day 2:City tour and Novodevichy Convent
Get a picture-perfect introduction to Moscow with an orientation tour of the city, which includes Tverskaya Street, Lubyanka Square, Kremlin embankment, Cathedral of Christ the Savior.
Afterwards, we are heading to the famous Novodevichi Convent – one of the most beautiful Moscow’s attractions, which was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent provides an example of the highest accomplishments of Russian architecture with rich interiors and an important collection of paintings and artefacts.
The evening is free to enjoy at your leisure or seek out a cultural performance at one of the city’s renowned venues.
Day 3:Red Square and Kremlin grounds
Today we start with a walking tour of the city centre. Stroll along the Red Square, where many great events in Russian history have taken place, see the sublimely beautiful Saint Basils Cathedral and GUM Department Store.
Next, we observe Kremlins Armoury Chamber to explore its collection of opulent coronation finery, hand-forged armour and weapons, royal carriages and sleighs. Continue to the beautifully frescoed 15thcentury Assumption and Archangel cathedrals.
The rest of the day is left open for independent exploration: for example, you may walk to the new park Zaryadye located near the Kremlin and Red Square or choose any one of several optional tours.
Day 4: Tretyakov Gallery
This morning is free for you to enjoy an independent walk in the nearby area. You may want to check some famous historical streets such as Tverskaya and Arbat which overflowing with history and atmosphere. Catch street performers as they charm passers-by and watch Moscow’s local artists at work.
At noon, after check-out from your hotel, we are heading to the Tretyakov Gallery - the first museum dedicated exclusively to Russian fine art. The gallery hosts a collection of over 130,000 masterpieces from early religious paintings to works by Russia’s most influential modern artists.
In the evening we transfer to the awaiting luxurious MS Volga Dream to begin sailing along the Russian waterways. Gather for the Captain's welcome reception and dinner as we begin our cruise.
Day 5:Uglich
After a full day of cruising through the beautiful forested countryside, dock in the ancient trading town of Uglich, one of the spokes of Russia’s renowned Golden Ring, is known for its magnificent cathedrals.
Explore the impressive Church of St. Dmitri-on-the blood, erected on the site where Dmitri, son of Ivan the Terrible, was murdered in 1591, and attend an enchanting concert of choral music at St. John’s Church. After the tour, you return to your ship and watch the documentary film "Construction of the Moscow Canal"
Day 6:Yaroslavl
Today you’ll visit one of the oldest cities in Russia and the Volga’s first port - Yaroslavl. On a guided tour you’ll visit the Spassky Monastery with the icon Transfiguration of the Savior. Admire the unique mosaics at the Church of Elijah the Prophet and take part in a costumed reception at the governor’s house. Afterwards, we return to the cruise ship for lunch.
In the evening you can join a costumed Russian tea ceremony and Russian cooking class.
Day 7:Goritsy
Today we arrive in the tiny settlement of Goritsy, located in the Vologda region. You will feel like you are in medieval times when strolling in this exciting and picturesque town. Here we will visit the Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery, founded in 1397, and now home to one of the finest collections of Russian icons in the world. After a guided tour, continue cruising toward majestic Lake Onega. In the evening, enjoy Russian dinner with vodka tasting on board.
Day 8:Kizhi in Karelia
One of the most well-known Russian symbols, Kizhi Island on the waters of Lake Onega, which included in the UNESCO heritage list will amaze you! Explore a collection of ancient Russian wooden houses and windmills, and the famous Transfiguration church, built in 1714 without a single nail. It has withstood the Earth's elements for more than 150 years and yet this spectacular church remains the tallest wooden structure in the world.
Enjoy the Piano Concert – pieces by Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninov, upon returning to the cruise ship.
Day 9:Svirstroy
While cruising along the 139-mile-long Svir River, appreciate the quiet understated beauty of a region that has long inspired artists and poets. The ship passes quaint riverside hamlets before reaching Lake Ladoga. Step ashore for a brief visit to the vacation village of Svirstroy to experience daily life in a quaint wooden village on your own. The village, which was razed to the ground during the Second World War, stands a reproduction of a traditional Russian settlement.
Here, every effort is made to create a warm, homely atmosphere and welcome each guest with personalized attention. Barbeque on the Open Deck will be organised for you upon the returning from the walking tour.
Day 10:St.Petersburg city tour
After cruising along remarkable villages and enjoying picturesque scenery, we finally arrive at St Petersburg – one of Europe’s beautiful cities, the cultural capital of Russia.
Enjoy a tour of the St. Petersburg city centre, including Peter and Paul Fortress, burial place of the Romanov monarchs, and Nevsky Prospect, with its endless fine shops, cafes and museums. Stroll along the Spit of Basil Island (Vasilievsky) - the unique place in St. Petersburg full of historical points and legends. Enjoy the magnificent architecture of the 2 iconic sights - St. Isaac Cathedral and the Spilled Blood Church. In the evening check-in at the five-star hotel in the city centre.
Day 11:Hermitage and Peterhof
Begin today at the renowned Hermitage Museum, home to one of the most important collections of European art in the world.
Lunch is followed by a tour of the meticulously restored Peterhof, St. Petersburg’s most famous and spectacular Imperial estate, often cited as the Versailles of Russia. Visit the authentic Bath Cottage and stroll in the vast Lower Park with 176 fountains of various forms and styles and four cascades, majestic palaces and numerous gilded statues of ancient gods and heroes. The rest of the day is spent at your leisure or join one of our optional tours.
Day 12:Pushkin: Tsarskoye Selo, Catherine Palace and Amber Room
This morning, join one of the optional tours or explore St. Petersburg at your own pace.
In the afternoon, we travel to Pushkin town, where Catherine the Great’s Palace is located. It houses the extraordinary Amber Room, its six tons of solid amber deftly carved and framed in gold leaf. Once deemed the “eighth wonder of the world,” the room was stripped by the Nazis in 1941, but majestically reconstructed in honour of St. Petersburg’s 300th birthday.
Day 13:St Petersburg: departure
This morning check out from your hotel and transfer to the airport for your flight.
Inclusions
5* hotels in Moscow and St.Petersburg for 3 nights in both cities
5* luxury river cruise ship for 6 nights
Breakfasts in the hotels
Full board catering (three meals per day) while on board of cruise ship
Arrival and departure airport transfers
All excursions according to the itinerary with professional English-speaking guides
Onboard entertainment including Russian language course and Russian songs lessons, live music concerts, etc
Lectures by a guest speaker
Russian visa support document
Flights
Travel insurance
Russian visa and visa fees. Russian visa can be arranged by 56th Parallel for an additional cost (for Australian citizens only). Apply for concierge visa service here.
Optional excursions
Individual transfers
Dates & Prices
| Dates | Availability | Price | Single sup. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 31 - Jun 12, 2019 (SPB to M) Guaranteed Departures |
Available | US $4,495 | contact us | Reserve |
| Jun 20 - Jul 02, 2019 (M to SPB) Guaranteed Departures |
Few places left | US $4,495 | contact us | Reserve |
| Jun 26 - Jul 08, 2019 (SPB to M) Guaranteed Departures |
Few places left | US $4,495 | contact us | Reserve |
| Jul 4 - Jul 16, 2019 (M to SPB) Guaranteed Departures |
Available | US $4,495 | contact us | Reserve |
| Jul 10 - Jul 22, 2019 (SPB to M) Guaranteed Departures |
Available | US $4,495 | contact us | Reserve |
| Jul 16 - Jul 28, 2019 (M to SPB) Guaranteed Departures |
Available | US $4,495 | contact us | Reserve |
| Jul 28 - Aug 9 , 2019 (M to SPB) Guaranteed Departures |
Few places left | US $4,495 | contact us | Reserve |
| Aug 9 - Aug 21, 2019 (M to SPB) Guaranteed Departures |
Available | US $4,495 | contact us | Reserve |
| Aug 22 - Sep 3, 2019 (M to SPB) Guaranteed Departures |
Available | US $4,495 | contact us | Reserve |
| Aug 29 - Sep 10, 2019 (SPB to M) Guaranteed Departures |
Few places left | US $4,495 | contact us | Reserve |
| Sep 5 - Sep 17, 2019 (M to SPB) Guaranteed Departures |
Available | US $4,495 | contact us | Reserve |
| Jun 4 - Jun 16, 2020 (M to SPB) Guaranteed Departures |
Few places left | US $4,695 | US $2,200 | Reserve |
| Jun 18 - Jun 30, 2020 (M to SPB) Guaranteed Departures |
Few places left | US $4,695 | US $2,200 | Reserve |
| Jun 24 - Jul 6, 2020 (SPB to M) Guaranteed Departures |
Few places left | US $4,695 | US $2,200 | Reserve |
| Jul 1 - Jul 13, 2020 (M to SPB) Guaranteed Departures |
Available | US $4,695 | US $2,200 | Reserve |
| Jul 13 - Jul 25, 2020 (M to SPB) Guaranteed Departures |
Available | US $4,695 | US $2,200 | Reserve |
| Jul 25 - Aug 6, 2020 (M to SPB) Guaranteed Departures |
Few places left | US $4,695 | US $2,200 | Reserve |
| Aug 7 - Aug 19, 2020 (M to SPB) Guaranteed Departures |
Available | US $4,695 | US $2,200 | Reserve |
| Aug 20 - Sep 1, 2020 (M to SPB) Guaranteed Departures |
Available | US $4,695 | US $2,200 | Reserve |
| Aug 26 - Sep 7, 2020 (SPB to M) Guaranteed Departures |
Available | US $4,695 | US $2,200 | Reserve |
| Sep 3 - Sep 15, 2020 (M to SPB) Guaranteed Departures |
Few places left | US $4,695 | US $2,200 | Reserve |
| Sep 21 - Oct 1, 2020 (M to SPB) Guaranteed Departures |
Few places left | US $4,695 | US $2,200 | Reserve |
| Sep 27 - Oct, 9, 2020 (SPB to M) Guaranteed Departures |
Available | US $4,695 | US $2,200 | Reserve |
Testimonials
Jan McDowallAustralia
Everything about our Russian experience was wonderful.
We had a wonderful trip. The cruise and all the staff, and the food could not be faulted. The entertainment on board was excellent. The hotels we stayed at were in a great location. Close to main attractions, very upmarket. Fellow passengers were mostly Australian. The service we received from your office was great and we have already recommended you to our friends. And of course if we ever go back to see more we would contact you. Regards, Jan
Day 1: Welcome to Moscow
Welcome to Moscow! Upon your arrival a private transfer to a five-star hotel in the historic city centre near the Bolshoi Theatre and Moscow Kremlin. Enjoy a warm-up meeting with your guide and fellow guests.
Day 2: City tour and Novodevichy Convent
Get a picture-perfect introduction to Moscow with an orientation tour of the city, which includes Tverskaya Street, Lubyanka Square, Kremlin embankment, Cathedral of Christ the Savior.
Afterwards, we are heading to the famous Novodevichi Convent – one of the most beautiful Moscow’s attractions, which was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent provides an example of the highest accomplishments of Russian architecture with rich interiors and an important collection of paintings and artefacts.
The evening is free to enjoy at your leisure or seek out a cultural performance at one of the city’s renowned venues.
Day 3: Red Square and Kremlin grounds
Today we start with a walking tour of the city centre. Stroll along the Red Square, where many great events in Russian history have taken place, see the sublimely beautiful Saint Basils Cathedral and GUM Department Store.
Next, we observe Kremlins Armoury Chamber to explore its collection of opulent coronation finery, hand-forged armour and weapons, royal carriages and sleighs. Continue to the beautifully frescoed 15thcentury Assumption and Archangel cathedrals.
The rest of the day is left open for independent exploration: for example, you may walk to the new park Zaryadye located near the Kremlin and Red Square or choose any one of several optional tours.
Day 4: Tretyakov Gallery
This morning is free for you to enjoy an independent walk in the nearby area. You may want to check some famous historical streets such as Tverskaya and Arbat which overflowing with history and atmosphere. Catch street performers as they charm passers-by and watch Moscow’s local artists at work.
At noon, after check-out from your hotel, we are heading to the Tretyakov Gallery - the first museum dedicated exclusively to Russian fine art. The gallery hosts a collection of over 130,000 masterpieces from early religious paintings to works by Russia’s most influential modern artists.
In the evening we transfer to the awaiting luxurious MS Volga Dream to begin sailing along the Russian waterways. Gather for the Captain's welcome reception and dinner as we begin our cruise.
Day 5: Uglich
After a full day of cruising through the beautiful forested countryside, dock in the ancient trading town of Uglich, one of the spokes of Russia’s renowned Golden Ring, is known for its magnificent cathedrals.
Explore the impressive Church of St. Dmitri-on-the blood, erected on the site where Dmitri, son of Ivan the Terrible, was murdered in 1591, and attend an enchanting concert of choral music at St. John’s Church. After the tour, you return to your ship and watch the documentary film "Construction of the Moscow Canal"
Day 6: Yaroslavl
Today you’ll visit one of the oldest cities in Russia and the Volga’s first port - Yaroslavl. On a guided tour you’ll visit the Spassky Monastery with the icon Transfiguration of the Savior. Admire the unique mosaics at the Church of Elijah the Prophet and take part in a costumed reception at the governor’s house. Afterwards, we return to the cruise ship for lunch.
In the evening you can join a costumed Russian tea ceremony and Russian cooking class.
Day 7: Goritsy
Today we arrive in the tiny settlement of Goritsy, located in the Vologda region. You will feel like you are in medieval times when strolling in this exciting and picturesque town. Here we will visit the Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery, founded in 1397, and now home to one of the finest collections of Russian icons in the world. After a guided tour, continue cruising toward majestic Lake Onega. In the evening, enjoy Russian dinner with vodka tasting on board.
Day 8: Kizhi in Karelia
One of the most well-known Russian symbols, Kizhi Island on the waters of Lake Onega, which included in the UNESCO heritage list will amaze you! Explore a collection of ancient Russian wooden houses and windmills, and the famous Transfiguration church, built in 1714 without a single nail. It has withstood the Earth's elements for more than 150 years and yet this spectacular church remains the tallest wooden structure in the world.
Enjoy the Piano Concert – pieces by Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninov, upon returning to the cruise ship.
Day 9: Svirstroy
While cruising along the 139-mile-long Svir River, appreciate the quiet understated beauty of a region that has long inspired artists and poets. The ship passes quaint riverside hamlets before reaching Lake Ladoga. Step ashore for a brief visit to the vacation village of Svirstroy to experience daily life in a quaint wooden village on your own. The village, which was razed to the ground during the Second World War, stands a reproduction of a traditional Russian settlement.
Here, every effort is made to create a warm, homely atmosphere and welcome each guest with personalized attention. Barbeque on the Open Deck will be organised for you upon the returning from the walking tour.
Day 10: St.Petersburg city tour
After cruising along remarkable villages and enjoying picturesque scenery, we finally arrive at St Petersburg – one of Europe’s beautiful cities, the cultural capital of Russia.
Enjoy a tour of the St. Petersburg city centre, including Peter and Paul Fortress, burial place of the Romanov monarchs, and Nevsky Prospect, with its endless fine shops, cafes and museums. Stroll along the Spit of Basil Island (Vasilievsky) - the unique place in St. Petersburg full of historical points and legends. Enjoy the magnificent architecture of the 2 iconic sights - St. Isaac Cathedral and the Spilled Blood Church. In the evening check-in at the five-star hotel in the city centre.
Day 11: Hermitage and Peterhof
Begin today at the renowned Hermitage Museum, home to one of the most important collections of European art in the world.
Lunch is followed by a tour of the meticulously restored Peterhof, St. Petersburg’s most famous and spectacular Imperial estate, often cited as the Versailles of Russia. Visit the authentic Bath Cottage and stroll in the vast Lower Park with 176 fountains of various forms and styles and four cascades, majestic palaces and numerous gilded statues of ancient gods and heroes. The rest of the day is spent at your leisure or join one of our optional tours.
Day 12: Pushkin: Tsarskoye Selo, Catherine Palace and Amber Room
This morning, join one of the optional tours or explore St. Petersburg at your own pace.
In the afternoon, we travel to Pushkin town, where Catherine the Great’s Palace is located. It houses the extraordinary Amber Room, its six tons of solid amber deftly carved and framed in gold leaf. Once deemed the “eighth wonder of the world,” the room was stripped by the Nazis in 1941, but majestically reconstructed in honour of St. Petersburg’s 300th birthday.
Day 13: St Petersburg: departure
This morning check out from your hotel and transfer to the airport for your flight.
Included
5* hotels in Moscow and St.Petersburg for 3 nights in both cities
5* luxury river cruise ship for 6 nights
Breakfasts in the hotels
Full board catering (three meals per day) while on board of cruise ship
Arrival and departure airport transfers
All excursions according to the itinerary with professional English-speaking guides
Onboard entertainment including Russian language course and Russian songs lessons, live music concerts, etc
Lectures by a guest speaker
Russian visa support document
Not included
Flights
Travel insurance
Russian visa and visa fees. Russian visa can be arranged by 56th Parallel for an additional cost (for Australian citizens only). Apply for concierge visa service here.
Optional excursions
Individual transfers
If you have any urgent questions or enquiries, please give us a call +61 2 9388 9816