Moscow, the Golden Ring and St Petersburg

9 days from £3480 per person

View looking up at the multi-coloured onion-shaped domes of St Basil's Cathedral in Moscow

Russia is one of the world's great nations. A place that has made, and shaped, history, everything in this mysterious land is on an epic scale. Although located in Russia's far west, Moscow remains the heart-beat of the nation and is one of Europe's great cities. Explore iconic Red Square, the onion-domes of St Basil's and the Kremlin then travel outside of the capital to the idyllic 'Golden Ring' towns of Sergiev Posad, Suzdal and Vladimir to appreciate traditional Russian life. End the journey in regal St Petersburg, with its grand imperial palaces, picturesque canals and world class museums.

Route: Moscow – Suzdal – St Petersburg

Itinerary Highlights

Culture rich, Moscow is a fascinating city that on the surface looks like a life-size fairy-tale, but underneath has a prominent and deep-rooted history waiting to be discovered.

A key location within the Golden Ring cluster of ancient towns, Suzdal is a pleasing contrast to city life with its delightful mix of wooden cottages, rolling green hills and local charm.

Visit the town of Pushkin to explore the vast complex of palaces and landscape gardens of Tsarskoe Selo, a perfect example of Russian architectural excellence.

Itinerary: Moscow, the Golden Ring and St Petersburg

Day 1 UK to Moscow

Today depart the UK in the morning on a British Airways flight to Moscow and arrive to Moscow mid-afternoon. The magnificent city of Moscow has a long and captivating history spanning centuries. Built under the patronage of Ivan the Terrible to Napoleon’s siege of 1812 and later cementing its position as the capital of the Soviet Union, the city’s story is one of intrigue and fascination. Please note that this itinerary is based on a Friday departure from the UK. (N)
Accommodation in Moscow: Marriott Grand Hotel (or similar)

Upgrade option: Ritz-Carlton Moscow (or similar)

Day 2 Moscow

Today discover one of Europe’s greatest cities, Moscow. Your first stop will be the iconic Red Square which is located in the heart of the city. Framed by the high walls of the Kremlin and the colourful domes of St Basil's Cathedral, wander around this celebrate square. Pass Lenin's Mausoleum, and approach the onion-domes of St Basil’s, the famous fairytale structure which was commissioned by Ivan the Terrible in 1552. In the afternoon explore the streets of Medieval Moscow then take in the beautiful city vista from the Sparrow Hills. End the day at the magnificent Tretyakov Gallery which is home to one of the finest collections of 20th century Russian art. (B)
Accommodation in Moscow: Marriott Grand Hotel (or similar)

Upgrade option: Ritz-Carlton Moscow (or similar)

Day 3 Moscow

This morning explore the Kremlin, the pinnacle of political power in the Russian Federation. This wonderful complex is home to over 800 years of Russian history. A fortified stronghold, construction of Moscow’s Kremlin started during the 1100s with it increasing in size and importance over the centuries. Highlights of the complex include the 15th century Assumption Cathedral and Archangel Cathedral, resting place of the tsars, the Ivan the Great Bell Tower, Great Kremlin Palace and the treasures housed in the Armoury. Afterwards, take a ride on Moscow’s famous and opulent metro. (B)
Accommodation in Moscow: Marriott Grand Hotel (or similar)

Upgrade option: Ritz-Carlton Moscow (or similar)

Day 4 Moscow to Suzdal via Sergiev Posad – 220kms

Leaving Moscow, drive north out of the city to Sergiev Posad, location of the blue and gold cupolas of the Trinity Monastery of St Sergius. One of Russia’s holiest sites, the monastery dates back to 1340 and has played an important role in the country’s history sheltering tsars and becoming residence of the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. Following lunch continue to beautiful Suzdal. Little-changed over the centuries, Suzdal’s collection of wooden cottages and church cupolas creates a quintessentially Russian scene. (B)

Accommodation in Suzdal: Pushkarskaya Sloboda (or similar)

Day 5 Suzdal to Vladimir – 40kms/ Vladimir to St Petersburg – by train

After breakfast explore attractive Suzdal with your guide. Highlights include the Kremlin and blue-domed Nativity of the Virgin Cathedral, the old trading arcades, 14th century Saviour Monastery of St. Euthymius and Museum of Wooden Architecture. Continue on to neighbouring Vladimir with its eclectic mix of Soviet and Medieval architecture including the Golden Gate then take the evening fast train to St Petersburg. Founded by Peter the Great in 1703, beautiful St Petersburg is Russia’s grandest city. (B)

Accommodation in St Petersburg: Angleterre Hotel (or similar)

Upgrade option: Belmond Grand Hotel Europe (or similar)

Day 6 St Petersburg – visit Pushkin

This morning drive south from the city to the town of Pushkin, site of the grand imperial estate of Tsarskoe Selo, or ‘Tsar’s Village’. A vast complex of palaces, parks and lakes, the highlight is the Catherine Palace – a vast baroque home designed by Rastrelli and given by Peter the Great to his wife Catherine in the mid-18th century. Returning to St Petersburg, spend the afternoon at the Yusupov Palace – one of the city’s finest. Built during the 1740s, this opulent palace even has its own theatre. It was also in a cellar here that the murder of Rasputin was planned. (B)

Accommodation in St Petersburg: Angleterre Hotel (or similar)

Upgrade option: Belmond Grand Hotel Europe (or similar)

Day 7 St Petersburg

Today visit the Hermitage Museum which is part of the wonderful Winter Palace complex. Here you will find one of the most magnificent collections of Western European art in the world which is housed in the numerous beautiful palaces. Continue your journey towards the gold dome of the opulent St Isaac’s Cathedral which you can explore and wander the impressive streets and scenic canals. End the day at the Peter and Paul Fortress which is St Petersburg oldest structure. Famous for the cathedral’s gilded spire and for historically holding political prisoners, the fortress even has its own theatre. (B)
Accommodation in St Petersburg: Angleterre Hotel (or similar)

Upgrade option: Belmond Grand Hotel Europe (or similar)

Day 8 St Petersburg – visit Peterhof

After breakfast depart St Petersburg for the day and drive west to the palace at Peterhof. Overlooking the Gulf of Finland, Peterhof was the former summer residence of the tsars and is comparable in scale and grandeur to the Palace of Versailles. Explore the magnificent complex including the stunning water fountains, the sumptuous Grand Palace, Peter the Great’s retreat ‘Monplaisir’, and the stately Marly Palace. Return to St Petersburg later that afternoon and enjoy the city at your leisure. (B)
Accommodation in St Petersburg: Angleterre Hotel (or similar)

Upgrade option: Belmond Grand Hotel Europe (or similar)

Day 9 St Petersburg to the UK

After a morning at leisure, you will be met and transferred to St Petersburg Airport for the afternoon British Airways flight to the UK. A boat ride on the city’s canals can also be arranged prior to your homeward flight. (B)

**KEY: N = No meals, B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

What's included

International flights from the UK
Train travel as specified
Private car and driver
Sightseeing with local English speaking guides
Hotel accommodation and taxes

What's not included

Cost of visas
Travel Insurance
Expenses of a personal nature
Meals unless specified

Guide to Price

The above price is based on two people travelling together and sharing accommodation in low season. The price is only a guide and can vary according to selected airlines, hotels and date of travel. If you wish to travel with your family, friends or on your own we will be very happy to assist you with your arrangements.

Moscow, the Golden Ring and St Petersburg

9 days from £3480 per person

Itinerary Highlights

Itinerary: Moscow, the Golden Ring and St Petersburg

What To Do Next?

What's included

What's not included

Guide to Price

What Is A Tailor-Made Holiday?

View On The Map

When to Visit

Russia Holiday Review

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