Lower Volga 2018 (Astrakhan - Moscow)

DAY 1 ASTRAKHAN
Upon arrival in Astrakhan, transfer to the deluxe MS Volga Dream. You may spend the rest of the day at leisure relaxing after the flight or explore Astrakhan on your own. (D)

DAY 2 ASTRAKHAN
In the morning embark on a tour of the local fortress built during the reign of Ivan the Terrible and then after lunch attend a lecture about the famous black caviar followed by an optional private tasting of this precious delicacy. (B, L, D)

DAY 3 SAILING DAY
(B, L, D)

DAY 4 VOLGOGRAD
Originally called Tsaritsyn, this remarkable city has had three name changes in its tumultuous history. The site of epic battles during the Russian Revolution, it was known as Stalingrad from 1925 until 1961 and the city’s heroic defence against the German’s during World War II became the decisive battle of the Eastern Front. Visit the memorial on Mamayev Hill, where the struggle saw its bloodiest fighting and the Battle of Stalingrad panorama museum. (B, L, D)

DAY 5 SARATOV
Once home to a large German community, today Saratov is known for its connection to Russia’s first cosmonaut, Yuri Gagarin, who lived and studied here. Take a city tour and visit Radishev State Art Museum - the first Russian art gallery outside of St. Petersburg or Moscow. (B, L, D)

DAY 6 SAMARA
This morning relax on the Sun Deck as you cruise past the Zhigulevskie Mountains on the approach to the city of Samara. Your afternoon will start with a city tour of Samara and includes a visit to the Space museum, a stroll along the Volga esplanade and visit to Samara State Art Museum. (B, L, D)

DAY 7 KAZAN
This morning you will notice that Russian Orthodox Churches no longer dominate the banks of the Volga River. Instead, beautiful Muslim mosques appear from time to time as you cruise down river and enter the Republic of Tatarstan. In the afternoon, explore Kazan, the capital of Tatarstan and centre of Tatar culture of Russia. Visit the white-walled Kremlin where the famous Kul-Sherif Mosque is neighbour to the old Peter & Paul Cathedral. In the late afternoon enjoy a concert by a local Tatar folk group. (B, L, D)

DAY 8 NIZHNIY NOVGOROD
Nizhniy Novgorod, formerly Gorky, was once a wealthy centre poised on the trade routes to the East. During the Soviet era the city was closed to outsiders due to military activity, but today it is open for tourists. On a city tour learn of the city’s history as a place of exile for political prisoners, walk the ramparts of the 16th-century Kremlin for spectacular views, and visit elaborately painted churches. This evening attend a concert by a local children’s folk group before dinner with vodka tasting. (B, L, D)

DAY 9 SAILING DAY
Spend the day at leisure as Volga Dream sails along the picturesque Volga River. Be on the Sun Deck as you pass by small villages, provincial towns, churches and monasteries. Afterwards, attend a lecture by our guest speaker about the history and traditions of these places. (B, L, D)

DAY 10 YAROSLAVL
This morning visit the oldest city on the Volga River, Yaroslavl, a World Heritage site. In the Spassky Monastery see the Transfiguration of the Saviour, adorned with murals depicting St. John's apocalyptic visions, and the richly frescoed Church of St. Elijah the Prophet. Participate in a costumed reception at the Governor's House before reboarding the Volga Dream in time for lunch. (B, L, D)

DAY 11 UGLICH
Arrive this afternoon in Uglich, which dates back to the 10th century. A walking tour includes the Chapel of Dmitry, a 17th-century treasure built on the site where Ivan the Terrible’s 10-year old son met his death. Visit the Church of the Transfiguration, noted for its beautiful iconostasis, and attend a concert of choral music. (B, L, D)

DAY 12 MOSCOW
This afternoon arrive in Moscow. After lunch enjoy an orientation tour of the city which includes magnificent Red Square and its landmarks - Lenin's Tomb and St. Basil's Cathedral. Visit Novodevichy Cemetery which holds the tombs of Russian authors, musicians, playwrights, poets, political leader, scientists and famous actors. (B, L, D)

DAY 13 MOSCOW
This morning enter the Kremlin for a visit to the Armoury Museum, with its collection of Czarist thrones, ceremonial crowns, coaches and gifts of state. Continue to the beautifully frescoed 15th century Assumption and Archangel Cathedrals. After lunch in a local restaurant, proceed to the Tretyakov Gallery to view it’s collection of Russian art, ranging from 12th-century icons to 20th-century paintings. Explore Moscow Metro, known for its architectural splendour. (B, L, D)

DAY 14 MOSCOW
Your Lower Volga cruise concludes after breakfast with a departure transfer for your onward journey. (B)