Moscow and St Petersburg in Style

Duration9days

Price fromUSD $3,135 ?Currency ConversionConverted from USD based on the latest exchange rate. Final amount and payment will be in USD. Final conversion rate is determined by your bank.

Trip StyleSightseeing

Time of yearAll Year

Experience the opulence of the era of the tsars on an private journey to Russia.

Russia’s story is evolving at a rapid pace, and nowhere is this intermingling of the ancient and the avant-garde more apparent than in its two largest metropolises, Moscow and St Petersburg. This carefully crafted Moscow and St Petersburg Tour itinerary tells the tale of two cities – Moscow, the source of Eastern political, economic and spiritual influence, and St Petersburg – Russia’s cultural epicentre and window to Western Europe.

During this fabulous 9 day Moscow and St Petersburg tour, you’ll stay in some of the country’s most stylish, centrally located urban hotels. Discover Moscow and St Petersburg plus a portion of the historical Golden Ring route by plush private transport. Travel business class on the high speed Sapsan train between Moscow and St Petersburg and spoil yourself even more with a choice of optional activities including a sublime night out at the opera or ballet at the Bolshoi Theatre, a luxurious Moscow dinner cruise and an evening of classical music at one of St Petersburg’s beautiful palaces turned concert halls.

Moscow and St Petersburg in Style Tour Highlights:

  • Enjoy a very special evening at White Rabbit, heralded as one of Restaurant Magazine’s top restaurants in the world. White Rabbit combines a whimsical Alice in Wonderland theme with elegant service, creative takes on Russian cuisine and a domed glass roof providing breathtaking views of the city
  • Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of one of the world’s biggest metropolises on a guided walking tour of Moscow, including the Red Square, the Kremlin and St Basil’s Cathedral
  • Explore Moscow’s famously elaborate Metro stations on the way to the Tretyakov State Gallery, the national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the greatest museums in the world
  • A glimpse of the Golden Ring: Drive 75km north of Moscow to the medieval township of Sergiev Posad, one of the most famous towns on the historic Golden Ring circuit, known as the “Russian Vatican”
  • Go on a guided tour uncovering some of the most esteemed treasures among the 3 million works of art in St Petersburg’s State Hermitage Museum
  • Embark on a day excursion to Tsarkoe Selo (the Tsar’s village) in the charming suburb of Pushkin, home of the extravagant Catherine Palace and the stately Alexander Palace

Starting in the capital, we’ll delve into a deep exploration of the Kremlin, the centre of Russian power and intrigue. Admire the treasures of the Tretyakov State Gallery and enjoy a panoramic drive along the Moskva River to the architecturally stunning Novodevichy Convent, and the observation platform at Sparrow Hills, for a bird’s eye view over this staggering megalopolis. On day 4, it’s time to escape to a slower pace with a scenic drive to Sergiev Posad, a splendid provincial town on the historical Golden Ring route, nestled in the gorgeous countryside north of Moscow. Next, you’ll be whisked away by high-speed train to one of the world’s most architecturally stunning cities. St Petersburg is both a living museum and a modern-day creative hub, home to countless monuments, parks, palaces, cathedrals and canals. Marvel at the Hermitage, home to the world’s largest art collection and follow in the footsteps of Peter the Great as you wander the exquisite gardens of Peterhof. We’ll also travel to the leafy suburb of Pushkin to the lavish estate of Catherine the Great, a baroque palace and dazzling testament to Catherine’s love of royal excess.

Free time is provided throughout this nine-day sojourn to take in the atmosphere of both cities yourself and explore the intersect where old-world values and modern aspirations collide. Enjoy world-class shopping and dining, hip bars, cool creative spaces and radical street art. You’ll uncover the true spirit of Russia with a behind-the-scenes exploration of some of history’s most iconic places and events and the opportunity to learn about the culture first-hand from proud and passionate locals.

Arrival

Mocow

Departure

St Petersburg

Accomodation

4* hotels

Trip style

Sightseeing

Duration

9 days / 8 nights

Action rating?

     

Group size

min 2

Type of tour

Private - Any Date

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival to Moscow

Welcome to Moscow, the monumental capital of Russia! On arrival at the airport, you’ll be met by your driver and transferred to your centrally located hotel.

Spend the rest of the day relaxing or getting acquainted with the local area on your own. For this evening we will book a table for you and your travel partners at one of the best restaurants in Moscow for your welcoming dinner. Choose either one of the top 20 best restaurants in the world and the main gastronomic attraction of the Russian capital – White Rabbit restaurant, to enjoy modern Russian food with a spectacular 360-degree view of the beautiful city of Moscow. Or find yourself in a more low-key the Chemodan restaurant on Arbat street, which focuses on original Siberian cuisine, where you can try bears cutlets and frozen shaved fish with a shot of vodka or home-made "nastoika" spirit.

Day 2 Moscow: Tretyakov Gallery and city tour

Today we explore the city, giving you a sense of the city’s sheer size, and an impression of how Moscow has changed throughout the ages. Start with a tour of the 19th century Tretyakov State Gallery, the world’s foremost depository of Russian fine art, containing over 130,000 exhibits, with work by Rublev, Kandinsky, Repin and many others. We’ll get to the gallery via a Metro Tour, stopping on the way to marvel at some of the most elaborately decorated stations of the world-famous Moscow subway system. Next, you’ll visit the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, one of the most important churches in Russia. Besides the cathedral is a bridge with fantastic views of this part of the city. Next, we explore the Red October district, and a vibrant hangout for Moscow’s youth, with its old industrial alleyways and lovingly restored courtyards lined with chic cafes, designer studios and galleries.

After a lunch break, the second half of the day consists of a wandering sojourn through some of Moscow’s most famous streets and squares. Driving through the new business district, we’ll enjoy a panoramic drive along the Mosvka River, where a huge, controversial state of Peter the Great was erected. Pass by the legendary Gorky Park and the White House before a stop at the architecturally stunning Novodevichy Convent, and the observation platform at Sparrow Hills, for a bird’s eye view over this staggering megalopolis.

As an option*, we suggest you spend this night on a sumptuous cruise, taking in the sights and sounds of this mesmerising city by night. The 2.5 hours cruise sails past some of the city’s most remarkable landmarks. Drinks are included, as well as a live musical accompaniment every Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Day 3 Moscow: Red Square, Kremlin and Armoury Chamber

Our in-depth Moscow discovery starts with a walking tour of the historical city centre. Meet your friendly and knowledgeable guide at your hotel lobby and enjoy a tour of Moscow’s main attractions including the Red Square, the State Historical Museum, GUM (a luxurious shopping centre), the colourful Saint Basil's Cathedral and other sights.

Have a delicious lunch in Dr. Zhivago restaurant (self-paid) on Tverskaya Street overlooking Kremlin and enjoy the delightful atmosphere, where art pieces are organically woven into a modern interior, mixed with strong yet lovely Soviet touch. After lunch, your day continues with the tour of Kremlin and Armoury Chamber, famous for the Tsar's regalia such as jewellery crowns, orbs and scepters, clothing of the Russian tsars and tsarinas, royal carriages, collection of arms and armour, gifts to the Russian Tsars from various countries of the West and the East, and the illustrious collection of Faberge Easter eggs.

Take your time to relax as we prepare something special as an option* for this evening. After dinner at your hotel, we head out for an unforgettable night at the opera or the Russian ballet at the iconic Bolshoi Theatre, its resident opera and ballet troupes rate among the finest in the world, which worth travelling to Moscow just for this experience.

Day 4 Sergiev Posad

Today we’ll travel to the rural provinces north of Moscow to check out one of the most famous towns on the historical Golden Ring, Sergiev Posad, located 75km to the northeast of Moscow.

The spiritual heart of the Orthodox Church, Sergiev Posad is known as the Russian Vatican thanks to the gleaming blue and gold cupolas scattered all around the town. After reaching the city, you will be stroke by the difference in the architecture and way of life. Our afternoon will include a visit to the resplendent Trinity Lavra, dedicated to Russia’s patron saint. Built in 1423, the working monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with a cathedral brimming with works by many of Russia’s greatest religious painters. Sergiev Posad is also the birthplace of matryoshka, known in the west as the Russian doll or babushka. You can see some rare nesting dolls and other wooden toys and dolls in the town's Toy Museum or do some matryoshka shopping in the market square near the monastery gates. Lunch will be served at the Russian Courtyard café-restaurant (self-paid), before our trip back to Moscow.

After our arrival, we’ll board a Sapsan – a Russian high-speed train – which will speed us on to our next destination, St Petersburg, completing the 700km journey in just four hours. On arrival in St Petersburg, you’ll be transferred straight to your centrally located hotel.

Day 5 St Petersburg: city tour and canals cruise

Meet your St Petersburg guide in the lobby and begin your discovery of Russia’s ‘Cultural Capital’ with a walking tour of the city’s most popular attractions. Your walking tour will include Nevsky Prospect, St. Petersburg’s fanciful high street, the Anichokov Bridge and Palace, viewpoints over the Fontaka and Moika rivers, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, Palace Square and the Senate Square, with its bronze horseman monument to Peter the Great and the Church of the Spilled Blood. You’ll also get the chance to stroll the grounds of the magnificent Peter and Paul Fortress on the banks of the Lena River, a burial place for the Russian emperors from Peter the Great to Nicholas II.

Take time out for lunch at one of the myriad restaurants and cafes on Nevsky Prospect. We suggest Mamalyga, whose gastronomic ideology is about introducing its guests to the distinctive and delicious Caucasian cuisines, including Georgian, Imeretian, Armenian, Gurian, Megrel, Svan and Adzharia.

Next, relax on a boat ride along canals of St Petersburg. Nicknamed the “Venice of the North” the city is bound together by a complex network of rivers, canals, channels and islands that also mark the borders of St Petersburg’s varying districts and neighbourhoods. You’ll gain a different perspective of St. Petersburg's majestic buildings, ornate palaces and grand architectural landmarks of the imperial age.

As an option* for this evening, we invite you to experience an evening of classical music at one of St. Petersburg’s beautiful palaces. Take a seat in the magnificent Hall of the Palace, then, lose yourself in much-loved works by Russian composers such as Tchaikovsky, Shostakovich and others, played by one of the world-class orchestras of St Petersburg. Before the raising of the curtains, enjoy an interesting pre-concert tour of the palace's halls and a glass of sparkling wine.

Day 6 St Petersburg: Peterhof and Faberge Museum

Today we’ll take a day trip (5 hours) to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Peterhof (Petrodvorets). Travelling by fast boat, we’ll avoid the rush hour traffic and take in fine scenery along the riverbanks.

Peterhof was once the opulent summer resort of the Romanovs. Today, it is a huge open-air museum and a testament to Peter the Great’s contribution to the city’s development. Peter's daughter, Empress Elizabeth, who ordered the expansion of the Grand Palace, greatly extended the park and its famous system of fountains, including the immense Grand Cascade. Learn about Peter the Great’s maritime passions and plans for his seafront estate. Admire the palace’s grand interiors, including the Throne Room and the White Dining Room. Then, take a walking tour around the fountain-adorned Lower Park.

In the afternoon, enjoy a self-guided tour of the recently opened Faberge Museum, a private collection of over 4,000 Faberge Eggs and other bejewelled objects of desire, elegantly displayed inside the stunning Shuvalov Palace.

As an option* for this evening, we invite you to enjoy the traditional Russian dance performance in Nikolaevsky Palace.

Day 7 St Petersburg: Hermitage

Today starts with a walk to the Palace Square to admire the grand designs of the Tsar’s Winter Palace, now a part of the State Hermitage Museum complex. You’ll be treated to a very special private tour of the Hermitage (4 hours), allowing you to ask as many questions as you like while exploring the colossal exhibitions on display.

As an afternoon option* embark on a tour of Konstantinovsky Palace, the revived residence of Grand Dukes of the House of Romanovs. The architecturally dominant structure now known as the National Congress Palace is located on the picturesque coast of the Gulf of Finland, less than 20km from St Petersburg's city centre. The palace is surrounded by parks which are decorated with an inimitable ensemble of fountains, canals, draw bridges and splendid rosaries. The state-of-the-art complex is used official visits of heads of state and has hosted the G20 and G8 summits.

Day 8 St Petersburg: Tsarskoye Selo, Pavlovsk and Yusupov Palace

Experience the extravagance of the Imperial rulers on an excursion to the suburban estates of the Romanov Tsars. Tsarskoye Selo (Tsar’s village) is now part of the nearby town of Pushkin and is one of Saint Petersburg’s finest attractions. We also explore the neoclassical Alexander Palace, whose tumultuous history paints a fascinating portrait of the Romanov family and the replica of the world-renowned Amber Room. We’ll also visit Pavlovsk Palace and Park, commissioned by Catherine as the summer residence of her son, Emperor Paul I. Unlike its stately counterparts, the Pavlovsk Palace does not feel official at all and has the aura of a country mansion. The 600-hectare park is one of the largest landscaped parks in Europe and undoubtedly one of the most beautiful parks in the world. The park is decorated by statues, monuments and bridges, and is home to several architectural pavilions creating an atmosphere of classic romanticism.

During the second part of the day, tour Yusupov Palace on the Moika River, best known as the scene of the assassination of Rasputin. Having survived much of the WWII destruction that wreaked havoc on many of St Petersburg’s suburbs, it’s one of the area’s few aristocratic homes to have retained much of its original character.

Day 9 St Petersburg: departure

Today you’ll be transferred to the airport, as our Moscow and Saint Petersburg tour has come to an end. We hope you’ll taking a little piece of the Russian spirit home with you, as you farewell this beautiful country, until next time!

You also may consider the tour extension by visiting the nearby Karelia region to explore its unique culture, nature and beautiful Russian rural life. Contact us for more information.

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Have a question about this tour? Our experts will be happy to help

Inclusions

Group arrival and departure transfers

All transportation on tour, according to the itinerary (private driver, metro)

Centrally located 4* hotels, can be upgraded to 5*

Breakfasts at the hotel

Local licensed English-speaking tour guides, professional drivers

Sapsan train tickets from Moscow to St Petersburg (business class)

All activities indicated in the itinerary, except optional

Entry tickets, according to the itinerary (skip-the-line policy)

Russian visa support document

Exclusions

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/activities

Individual transfers not indicated in the itinerary

Moscow and St Petersburg in Style

9 days / 8 nights

From
$3,135
USD

*Private Tour. Price is per person, based on min 2 people

Make an enquiry Detailed Itinerary

Testimonials

Rosalyn and Geoffrey DidierAustralia

Thank you for making the wonderfully organised trip memorable!

Both Julianna (Moscow) and Marina (St.Petersburg) led us on some most fascinating walks through these two grand cities. Our guides were most knowledgeable on a vast array of subjects, from cultural, historical and political aspects of this wonderful country.

Although their styles varied a little from each other, they both had lovely personalities and charisma which came through in their storytelling and allowed them to showcase the obvious passion that they both have for their jobs, cities and country. Anna, your professional communication certainly added to our memorable trip. It was a pleasure being one of your clients.

Charles HardemanUSA

...an extraordinarily successful visit which more than exceeded expectations!

We have just broken away from our moorings alongside port here at St. Petersburg after an extraordinarily successful 2-day visit which more than exceeded expectations. I have to admit that I am glad that you talked me into doing things I had not done before, and initially objected to, particularly the Metro which we all felt was a special experience.

Speaking of special, you could not have assigned us to a more knowledgeable, personable and patient guide than Nadya. Her command of English and encyclopedic knowledge of Russian history, the places we visited, St. Petersburg and just all matters of importance to us during our visit is unequaled. And, she is also just one of the nicest people on earth.

And, Boris, our bus driver deserves special commendation as well not only for managing the tight time cable amidst the usual difficult St Petersburg traffic and parking conditions, he had to do it while maneuvering around preparations for the upcoming celebrations which posed all kinds of obstacles…please pass on our thanks to Boris as well.
“I would like to add my voice of thanks to the whole team behind the wonderful coordination of our two days in St Petersburg.  As a former event producer, I know just how many things go on ‘behind the scenes’ and how many things it takes to deliver an exceptional tour.  Our experience is one I will treasure forever.

Nadya and Borya excelled in their roles.  And, as Charles says, Nadya is a delightful young woman who is so well equipped to lead a memorable tour.  She shared so many points of interest and historical facts with us, we’d never appreciate Russia in that way from reading about it.  She truly brought Russia to life for us.

Thank you to you for all the amazing coordination you put into our visit” (c) Kathryn
With all best wishes, and a well done to you Anna,
Charles and the travelling Vikings

Allon FaulAustralia

For anyone wanting to visit Russia, look no further than the team at 56th Parallel. 

Whether it’s the main sites you’re interested in seeing or getting a taste of the local life, they will tailor your trip with the utmost professionalism, friendliness and fun. My experience began when I was collected from the airport in Moscow and transferred to my hotel, where I was greeted by Olga. Her enthusiasm and charm was instantly apparent and made me feel very welcome and comfortable.

Over the next five days, we took in many of the beautiful and historic sites of Moscow including the Kremlin and its Armory and Cathedrals, Red Square with St Basil’s Cathedral, Gorky Park and Moscow River cruise.

I was also taken to local places such as Patriarshie and ArtPlay district, in addition to ‘hanging with the local’ activities such as having a picnic and a drink at some local bars. Nothing was too much, and everything was done with a smile. My sincere thanks and appreciation to the 56th Parallel team!

More Reviews
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Moscow and St Petersburg in Style

9 days / 8 nights

From
$3,135
USD

*Private Tour. Price is per person, based on min 2 people

Make an enquiry

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Detailed Itinerary
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Why travel to Russia with 56th Parallel?

Destination Specialists

Our team offers over 18 years of experience travelling and planning travel in Russia. Delivering outstanding travel experiences in Russia’s capitals and in some of the most stunning & remote locations takes experience, special access and the right connections. We make sure that all the fine details are handled perfectly so you can enjoy your Russia travel experience.

Group & Private Tours

The choice to join a small group on a guaranteed departure or chose to travel on your own dates with your own mates. Each destination we travel to in Russia offers an option between private tours and small group tours. Please note: on our adventure tours in remote destinations, we mostly run group tours to keep the cost down.

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+61 412 587 785[email protected]

Moscow and St Petersburg in Style

Days 9

From USD $3,135

Trip Style Sightseeing

Time of year All Year

Day 1: Arrival to Moscow

Welcome to Moscow, the monumental capital of Russia! On arrival at the airport, you’ll be met by your driver and transferred to your centrally located hotel.

Spend the rest of the day relaxing or getting acquainted with the local area on your own. For this evening we will book a table for you and your travel partners at one of the best restaurants in Moscow for your welcoming dinner. Choose either one of the top 20 best restaurants in the world and the main gastronomic attraction of the Russian capital – White Rabbit restaurant, to enjoy modern Russian food with a spectacular 360-degree view of the beautiful city of Moscow. Or find yourself in a more low-key the Chemodan restaurant on Arbat street, which focuses on original Siberian cuisine, where you can try bears cutlets and frozen shaved fish with a shot of vodka or home-made "nastoika" spirit.

Day 2: Moscow: Tretyakov Gallery and city tour

Today we explore the city, giving you a sense of the city’s sheer size, and an impression of how Moscow has changed throughout the ages. Start with a tour of the 19th century Tretyakov State Gallery, the world’s foremost depository of Russian fine art, containing over 130,000 exhibits, with work by Rublev, Kandinsky, Repin and many others. We’ll get to the gallery via a Metro Tour, stopping on the way to marvel at some of the most elaborately decorated stations of the world-famous Moscow subway system. Next, you’ll visit the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, one of the most important churches in Russia. Besides the cathedral is a bridge with fantastic views of this part of the city. Next, we explore the Red October district, and a vibrant hangout for Moscow’s youth, with its old industrial alleyways and lovingly restored courtyards lined with chic cafes, designer studios and galleries.

After a lunch break, the second half of the day consists of a wandering sojourn through some of Moscow’s most famous streets and squares. Driving through the new business district, we’ll enjoy a panoramic drive along the Mosvka River, where a huge, controversial state of Peter the Great was erected. Pass by the legendary Gorky Park and the White House before a stop at the architecturally stunning Novodevichy Convent, and the observation platform at Sparrow Hills, for a bird’s eye view over this staggering megalopolis.

As an option*, we suggest you spend this night on a sumptuous cruise, taking in the sights and sounds of this mesmerising city by night. The 2.5 hours cruise sails past some of the city’s most remarkable landmarks. Drinks are included, as well as a live musical accompaniment every Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Day 3: Moscow: Red Square, Kremlin and Armoury Chamber

Our in-depth Moscow discovery starts with a walking tour of the historical city centre. Meet your friendly and knowledgeable guide at your hotel lobby and enjoy a tour of Moscow’s main attractions including the Red Square, the State Historical Museum, GUM (a luxurious shopping centre), the colourful Saint Basil's Cathedral and other sights.

Have a delicious lunch in Dr. Zhivago restaurant (self-paid) on Tverskaya Street overlooking Kremlin and enjoy the delightful atmosphere, where art pieces are organically woven into a modern interior, mixed with strong yet lovely Soviet touch. After lunch, your day continues with the tour of Kremlin and Armoury Chamber, famous for the Tsar's regalia such as jewellery crowns, orbs and scepters, clothing of the Russian tsars and tsarinas, royal carriages, collection of arms and armour, gifts to the Russian Tsars from various countries of the West and the East, and the illustrious collection of Faberge Easter eggs.

Take your time to relax as we prepare something special as an option* for this evening. After dinner at your hotel, we head out for an unforgettable night at the opera or the Russian ballet at the iconic Bolshoi Theatre, its resident opera and ballet troupes rate among the finest in the world, which worth travelling to Moscow just for this experience.

Day 4: Sergiev Posad

Today we’ll travel to the rural provinces north of Moscow to check out one of the most famous towns on the historical Golden Ring, Sergiev Posad, located 75km to the northeast of Moscow.

The spiritual heart of the Orthodox Church, Sergiev Posad is known as the Russian Vatican thanks to the gleaming blue and gold cupolas scattered all around the town. After reaching the city, you will be stroke by the difference in the architecture and way of life. Our afternoon will include a visit to the resplendent Trinity Lavra, dedicated to Russia’s patron saint. Built in 1423, the working monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with a cathedral brimming with works by many of Russia’s greatest religious painters. Sergiev Posad is also the birthplace of matryoshka, known in the west as the Russian doll or babushka. You can see some rare nesting dolls and other wooden toys and dolls in the town's Toy Museum or do some matryoshka shopping in the market square near the monastery gates. Lunch will be served at the Russian Courtyard café-restaurant (self-paid), before our trip back to Moscow.

After our arrival, we’ll board a Sapsan – a Russian high-speed train – which will speed us on to our next destination, St Petersburg, completing the 700km journey in just four hours. On arrival in St Petersburg, you’ll be transferred straight to your centrally located hotel.

Day 5: St Petersburg: city tour and canals cruise

Meet your St Petersburg guide in the lobby and begin your discovery of Russia’s ‘Cultural Capital’ with a walking tour of the city’s most popular attractions. Your walking tour will include Nevsky Prospect, St. Petersburg’s fanciful high street, the Anichokov Bridge and Palace, viewpoints over the Fontaka and Moika rivers, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, Palace Square and the Senate Square, with its bronze horseman monument to Peter the Great and the Church of the Spilled Blood. You’ll also get the chance to stroll the grounds of the magnificent Peter and Paul Fortress on the banks of the Lena River, a burial place for the Russian emperors from Peter the Great to Nicholas II.

Take time out for lunch at one of the myriad restaurants and cafes on Nevsky Prospect. We suggest Mamalyga, whose gastronomic ideology is about introducing its guests to the distinctive and delicious Caucasian cuisines, including Georgian, Imeretian, Armenian, Gurian, Megrel, Svan and Adzharia.

Next, relax on a boat ride along canals of St Petersburg. Nicknamed the “Venice of the North” the city is bound together by a complex network of rivers, canals, channels and islands that also mark the borders of St Petersburg’s varying districts and neighbourhoods. You’ll gain a different perspective of St. Petersburg's majestic buildings, ornate palaces and grand architectural landmarks of the imperial age.

As an option* for this evening, we invite you to experience an evening of classical music at one of St. Petersburg’s beautiful palaces. Take a seat in the magnificent Hall of the Palace, then, lose yourself in much-loved works by Russian composers such as Tchaikovsky, Shostakovich and others, played by one of the world-class orchestras of St Petersburg. Before the raising of the curtains, enjoy an interesting pre-concert tour of the palace's halls and a glass of sparkling wine.

Day 6: St Petersburg: Peterhof and Faberge Museum

Today we’ll take a day trip (5 hours) to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Peterhof (Petrodvorets). Travelling by fast boat, we’ll avoid the rush hour traffic and take in fine scenery along the riverbanks.

Peterhof was once the opulent summer resort of the Romanovs. Today, it is a huge open-air museum and a testament to Peter the Great’s contribution to the city’s development. Peter's daughter, Empress Elizabeth, who ordered the expansion of the Grand Palace, greatly extended the park and its famous system of fountains, including the immense Grand Cascade. Learn about Peter the Great’s maritime passions and plans for his seafront estate. Admire the palace’s grand interiors, including the Throne Room and the White Dining Room. Then, take a walking tour around the fountain-adorned Lower Park.

In the afternoon, enjoy a self-guided tour of the recently opened Faberge Museum, a private collection of over 4,000 Faberge Eggs and other bejewelled objects of desire, elegantly displayed inside the stunning Shuvalov Palace.

As an option* for this evening, we invite you to enjoy the traditional Russian dance performance in Nikolaevsky Palace.

Day 7: St Petersburg: Hermitage

Today starts with a walk to the Palace Square to admire the grand designs of the Tsar’s Winter Palace, now a part of the State Hermitage Museum complex. You’ll be treated to a very special private tour of the Hermitage (4 hours), allowing you to ask as many questions as you like while exploring the colossal exhibitions on display.

As an afternoon option* embark on a tour of Konstantinovsky Palace, the revived residence of Grand Dukes of the House of Romanovs. The architecturally dominant structure now known as the National Congress Palace is located on the picturesque coast of the Gulf of Finland, less than 20km from St Petersburg's city centre. The palace is surrounded by parks which are decorated with an inimitable ensemble of fountains, canals, draw bridges and splendid rosaries. The state-of-the-art complex is used official visits of heads of state and has hosted the G20 and G8 summits.

Day 8: St Petersburg: Tsarskoye Selo, Pavlovsk and Yusupov Palace

Experience the extravagance of the Imperial rulers on an excursion to the suburban estates of the Romanov Tsars. Tsarskoye Selo (Tsar’s village) is now part of the nearby town of Pushkin and is one of Saint Petersburg’s finest attractions. We also explore the neoclassical Alexander Palace, whose tumultuous history paints a fascinating portrait of the Romanov family and the replica of the world-renowned Amber Room. We’ll also visit Pavlovsk Palace and Park, commissioned by Catherine as the summer residence of her son, Emperor Paul I. Unlike its stately counterparts, the Pavlovsk Palace does not feel official at all and has the aura of a country mansion. The 600-hectare park is one of the largest landscaped parks in Europe and undoubtedly one of the most beautiful parks in the world. The park is decorated by statues, monuments and bridges, and is home to several architectural pavilions creating an atmosphere of classic romanticism.

During the second part of the day, tour Yusupov Palace on the Moika River, best known as the scene of the assassination of Rasputin. Having survived much of the WWII destruction that wreaked havoc on many of St Petersburg’s suburbs, it’s one of the area’s few aristocratic homes to have retained much of its original character.

Day 9: St Petersburg: departure

Today you’ll be transferred to the airport, as our Moscow and Saint Petersburg tour has come to an end. We hope you’ll taking a little piece of the Russian spirit home with you, as you farewell this beautiful country, until next time!

You also may consider the tour extension by visiting the nearby Karelia region to explore its unique culture, nature and beautiful Russian rural life. Contact us for more information.

Included

Group arrival and departure transfers

All transportation on tour, according to the itinerary (private driver, metro)

Centrally located 4* hotels, can be upgraded to 5*

Breakfasts at the hotel

Local licensed English-speaking tour guides, professional drivers

Sapsan train tickets from Moscow to St Petersburg (business class)

All activities indicated in the itinerary, except optional

Entry tickets, according to the itinerary (skip-the-line policy)

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/activities

Individual transfers not indicated in the itinerary

Start planning your tour

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Prefer to chat? Call us on +61 412 587 785 we will be delighted to be of service.

Moscow and St Petersburg in Style

If you have any urgent questions or enquiries, please give us a call +61 412 587 785

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