Volga river: Russian countryside voyage

Duration8days

Price fromUSD $2,950 ?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 StyleRiver Cruise

Time of yearSummer

Explore Russian province - a living museum of Russian culture and art, in a beautiful setting of forests and rivers.

Sailing between Moscow and St. Petersburg, this unique experience includes an array of cultural riches and awe-inspiring natural phenomena, bookended by the country’s most iconic cities and small towns. The Russian Countryside cruise offers a perfect combination of vibrant cities and peaceful provinces, so the guests who start this exciting voyage can be sure that they will see several faces of Russia, which combines the enchantment of glorious past and perspectives of promising future.

On the Svir River absorb the picturesque Russian countryside and cruise towards the tranquil waters of Lake Onega, Europe’s second-largest lake. Cruise the ethereal White Lake and along the Volga-Baltic Waterway that connects the Baltic and Caspian seas.

Volga River Cruise Highlights:

  • Explore Karelia's gems: the mysterious Valaam, where for centuries truly unique examples of Russian church architecture have been preserved, and the spellbinding sight of Kizhi Island, with its renowned World Heritage-listed site - Transfiguration Church, a 22-domed structure, built in 1714 without a single nail.
  • Walk around cosy fairytale-like wooden village of Mandrogi, a tiny island that is more a living museum than a live-in village, and Goritsy, a peaceful farming town where we will enjoy an intriguing collection of ancient artefacts.
  • Watch idyllic rural life unfold along the riverbanks as your ship cruises to the provincial town of Uglich, one of the historic Golden Ring cities that form a ring to the northeast of Moscow. Step back in time and embrace olden day Russia.

Step into a 5-star floating hotel - Mustai Karim, with impeccable design and an onboard experience that’s a lesson in Russian luxury. Exquisite cuisine and a premium wine list to be enjoyed in several stunning panoramic bars are just a glimpse of the delights to be found onboard. You’ll dream the night away in total comfort, with pristine 5-star interiors decorated in soothing neutral tones, with panoramic windows framing each incredible view as you float past. Wake up feeling rejuvenated every day thanks to the onboard spa and wellness activities.

You’ll experience a true masterpiece in river cruising, complete with exclusive excursions which are crafted especially for you.

Arrival

St Petersburg / Moscow

Departure

Moscow / St Petersburg

Accomodation

5* M/S Mustai Karim

Trip style

River Cruise

Duration

8 days / 7 nights

Action rating?

     

Group size

up to 329 passengers

Type of tour

Guaranteed

Itinerary

Day 1 St Petersburg

Welcome to Russia! On arrival to St Petersburg, you will be met by a representative directly upon landing, and transferred to your 5* floating hotel - Mustai Karim. You will spend the evening getting to know your fellow travelers, sharing an exquisite dinner, which is served for you in the restaurant on the main deck.

Day 2 St Petersburg

A truly unique experience awaits: at night, you’ll pass under the drawn bridges of St. Petersburg. Wake up to an exciting bus tour of the Northern capital – take in the glorious architecture, glittering canals, and luxurious palaces. We will drive along Nevsky Prospekt, the city’s grand old main street, see the Kazan Cathedral and other gems of the city. Be amazed by the iconic St. Isaac's Cathedral - the second tallest Orthodox church in the world, and the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, which stands on the spot where Russia's great emperor Alexander II was mortally wounded. 

After lunch, we enjoy a tour of Peterhof - the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once an opulent summer resort of the Romanovs, today Peterhof 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 the famous system of fountains, including the truly spectacular Grand Cascade. Representing nearly two centuries of European aristocratic fashion executed to the highest standards, Peterhof is like an encyclopedia of park design through the age of empire. Being amazed by Tsarist Russia, its power and infinite beauty.

Day 3 Valaam

Today we depart early for the Valaam Archipelago, a group of 50 islands in the north of Lake Lagoda, the largest lake in Europe. 

We’ll spend the rest of the day exploring inside the walls of the Central Monastery Complex, where for centuries truly unique examples of Russian church architecture have been preserved, represented by the majestic Cathedral of the Transfiguration. Get acquainted with one of the most scared Orthodox sites in Russia and the site of numerous clashes between the Russians and Swedes in their struggle for power during the 16th century.

Day 4 Mandrogi

Located in a thick forest on the Svir River, famous for its towering, onion-top churches — Mandrogi was bombed out of existence by the Germans in World War II. The war left it a burnt ruin, but after the Soviet Union fell, a group of Russian investors bought the land and invited the best of the region’s woodworkers to use their creativity and traditional skills to restore the town to its former glory. 

Here, you will have an opportunity to enjoy the peaceful scenery and picturesque landscape. Visit a traditional Russian village with typical wooden houses, numerous crafts exhibitions. Today’s lunch is outdoor BBQ, where you have a chance to savor Russian shashlik (kebab). 

Day 5 Kizhi

Today, you’ll then spend several hours exploring Kizhi Pogost, aka the Kizhi Open Air Museum of Wooden Architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1990. Considered one of the greatest cultural attractions in Russia, Kizhi consists of around 80 structures from the 17th to the 19th centuries, all of which have been crafted entirely out of wood.

Among Kizhi’s many treasures is the Transfiguration Church, an architectural masterpiece featuring five tiers of 22 intricately decorated wooden domes, built in 1714 without using a single nail. The building has withstood the elements for over 150 years. You’ll then be taken to another side of Kizhi Island, where you’ll see some of the Kizhi Museum’s restoration work in action, and learn some of the secrets of traditional Russian wooden architecture.

Day 6 Goritsy

A tiny river community with a unique medieval atmosphere, Goritsy reveals a storied past within the famous Ferapontov Monastery. Marvel at paintings over 500 years old, and delve into the lives of the royals who lived there.

Here you are in the heart of Russia, in the Russian countryside with its small wooden houses surrounded by their beautiful gardens. From the ship, you can see the Resurrection Monastery, located on the river bank, which dates from the sixteen century. Almost derelict, it comes back to life, due to the devotion of strong believers.

Day 7 Uglich

Today you’ll arrive in Uglich, an ancient town filled with brightly colored architecture. Its Kremlin and the Church of St. Dmitry are particularly famous – the church’s fascinating history is tied to the life and death of Ivan the Terrible’s son. In the afternoon, relax as the sounds of Kovcheg Choir wash over you, then spend a special moment of time in a local family home.

Day 8 Moscow

After a relaxing breakfast onboard, you’ll disembark from the Mustai Karim. We hope you’ve had a wonderful journey on board with us, and we hope to see you again soon!

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Inclusions

5* luxury river cruise ship accommodation

Full board catering (three meals per day) while onboard the 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

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

Dates & Prices

Dates Availability Price Single sup.  
Sep 09 – Sep 16, 2022 (M to SPB)
Guaranteed Departures
Available US $3,595 US $2,080 Reserve
Sep 17 – Sep 24, 2022 (SPB to M)
Guaranteed Departures
Available US $3,595 US $2,080 Reserve
Sep 25 – Oct 2, 2022 (M to SPB)
Guaranteed Departures
Available US $3,595 US $2,080 Reserve
Oct 03 – Oct 10, 2022 (SPB to M)
Guaranteed Departures
Available US $2,950 US $2,080 Reserve
Oct 11 – Oct 18, 2022 (M to SPB)
Guaranteed Departures
Available US $2,950 US $2,080 Reserve
Oct 19 – Oct 26, 2022 (SPB to M)
Guaranteed Departures
Available US $2,950 US $2,080 Reserve

Volga river: Russian countryside voyage

8 days / 7 nights

From
$2,950
USD

* price is per person, based on the twin/double accommodation in the cheapest cabin. See full rates for all cabins in the detailed itinerary.

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Volga river: Russian countryside voyage

8 days / 7 nights

From
$2,950
USD

* price is per person, based on the twin/double accommodation in the cheapest cabin. See full rates for all cabins in the detailed itinerary.

Make an enquiry

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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.

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Volga river: Russian countryside voyage

Days 8

From USD $2,950

Trip Style River Cruise

Time of year Summer

Day 1: St Petersburg

Welcome to Russia! On arrival to St Petersburg, you will be met by a representative directly upon landing, and transferred to your 5* floating hotel - Mustai Karim. You will spend the evening getting to know your fellow travelers, sharing an exquisite dinner, which is served for you in the restaurant on the main deck.

Day 2: St Petersburg

A truly unique experience awaits: at night, you’ll pass under the drawn bridges of St. Petersburg. Wake up to an exciting bus tour of the Northern capital – take in the glorious architecture, glittering canals, and luxurious palaces. We will drive along Nevsky Prospekt, the city’s grand old main street, see the Kazan Cathedral and other gems of the city. Be amazed by the iconic St. Isaac's Cathedral - the second tallest Orthodox church in the world, and the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, which stands on the spot where Russia's great emperor Alexander II was mortally wounded. 

After lunch, we enjoy a tour of Peterhof - the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once an opulent summer resort of the Romanovs, today Peterhof 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 the famous system of fountains, including the truly spectacular Grand Cascade. Representing nearly two centuries of European aristocratic fashion executed to the highest standards, Peterhof is like an encyclopedia of park design through the age of empire. Being amazed by Tsarist Russia, its power and infinite beauty.

Day 3: Valaam

Today we depart early for the Valaam Archipelago, a group of 50 islands in the north of Lake Lagoda, the largest lake in Europe. 

We’ll spend the rest of the day exploring inside the walls of the Central Monastery Complex, where for centuries truly unique examples of Russian church architecture have been preserved, represented by the majestic Cathedral of the Transfiguration. Get acquainted with one of the most scared Orthodox sites in Russia and the site of numerous clashes between the Russians and Swedes in their struggle for power during the 16th century.

Day 4: Mandrogi

Located in a thick forest on the Svir River, famous for its towering, onion-top churches — Mandrogi was bombed out of existence by the Germans in World War II. The war left it a burnt ruin, but after the Soviet Union fell, a group of Russian investors bought the land and invited the best of the region’s woodworkers to use their creativity and traditional skills to restore the town to its former glory. 

Here, you will have an opportunity to enjoy the peaceful scenery and picturesque landscape. Visit a traditional Russian village with typical wooden houses, numerous crafts exhibitions. Today’s lunch is outdoor BBQ, where you have a chance to savor Russian shashlik (kebab). 

Day 5: Kizhi

Today, you’ll then spend several hours exploring Kizhi Pogost, aka the Kizhi Open Air Museum of Wooden Architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1990. Considered one of the greatest cultural attractions in Russia, Kizhi consists of around 80 structures from the 17th to the 19th centuries, all of which have been crafted entirely out of wood.

Among Kizhi’s many treasures is the Transfiguration Church, an architectural masterpiece featuring five tiers of 22 intricately decorated wooden domes, built in 1714 without using a single nail. The building has withstood the elements for over 150 years. You’ll then be taken to another side of Kizhi Island, where you’ll see some of the Kizhi Museum’s restoration work in action, and learn some of the secrets of traditional Russian wooden architecture.

Day 6: Goritsy

A tiny river community with a unique medieval atmosphere, Goritsy reveals a storied past within the famous Ferapontov Monastery. Marvel at paintings over 500 years old, and delve into the lives of the royals who lived there.

Here you are in the heart of Russia, in the Russian countryside with its small wooden houses surrounded by their beautiful gardens. From the ship, you can see the Resurrection Monastery, located on the river bank, which dates from the sixteen century. Almost derelict, it comes back to life, due to the devotion of strong believers.

Day 7: Uglich

Today you’ll arrive in Uglich, an ancient town filled with brightly colored architecture. Its Kremlin and the Church of St. Dmitry are particularly famous – the church’s fascinating history is tied to the life and death of Ivan the Terrible’s son. In the afternoon, relax as the sounds of Kovcheg Choir wash over you, then spend a special moment of time in a local family home.

Day 8: Moscow

After a relaxing breakfast onboard, you’ll disembark from the Mustai Karim. We hope you’ve had a wonderful journey on board with us, and we hope to see you again soon!

Included

5* luxury river cruise ship accommodation

Full board catering (three meals per day) while onboard the 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

Dates & Prices

DatesAvailabilityPriceSingle sup.
Sep 09 – Sep 16, 2022 (M to SPB)
Guaranteed Departures
Available US $3,595 US $2,080
Sep 17 – Sep 24, 2022 (SPB to M)
Guaranteed Departures
Available US $3,595 US $2,080
Sep 25 – Oct 2, 2022 (M to SPB)
Guaranteed Departures
Available US $3,595 US $2,080
Oct 03 – Oct 10, 2022 (SPB to M)
Guaranteed Departures
Available US $2,950 US $2,080
Oct 11 – Oct 18, 2022 (M to SPB)
Guaranteed Departures
Available US $2,950 US $2,080
Oct 19 – Oct 26, 2022 (SPB to M)
Guaranteed Departures
Available US $2,950 US $2,080

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Volga river: Russian countryside voyage

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