Impressions of Russia 2020 (Moscow - St. Petersburg)

DAY 1 MOSCOW
Welcome to Moscow, the Russian capital! Your tour commences with a private transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
Radisson Slavyanskaya Hotel (4 star)

DAY 2 MOSCOW
With your guide, you will walk to the metro to begin your tour. Stalin was determined to build the best public transport system in the world. Many of the stations were built in a grand Soviet style with lavish use of marble, mosaics, sculptures and chandeliers. On arrival at the Bunker 42 visit the conference hall where Stalin's cabinet and the top level of military leadership would meet and learn how close the hazard of World War II was in the 1950’s and 60’s. B
Radisson Slavyanskaya Hotel (4 star)

DAY 3 MOSCOW
This morning is free for you continue exploring before your transfer early afternoon to the port for embarkation on the MS Mstislav Rostropovich. Following embarkation and a traditional “Bread & Salt” ceremony, you will have the opportunity to meet your fellow travellers and afterwards enjoy this evenings Welcome Dinner. BD
Onboard MS Mstislav Rostropovich

DAY 4 MOSCOW
On today’s city tour you see many of the city’s iconic landmarks including the colourful St. Basil’s Cathedral, Red Square, the GUM and the Bolshoi Theatre. Your tour continues with a visit to the formidable Kremlin, the official residence of the President of Russia and the apex of Russian political power. Explore the Kremlin grounds with a visit to one of its historic cathedrals. BLD
Onboard MS Mstislav Rostropovich

DAY 5 UGLICH
Enjoy a walking tour of Uglich, including a visit to the Kremlin grounds Transfiguration Cathedral and the Church of St. Dmitry on the Blood, built on the site where Ivan the Terrible’s son was killed. BLD
Onboard MS Mstislav Rostropovich

DAY 6 GORITZY
Today you will cruise to Goritzy to visit the Monastery of St. Cyril on the White Lake, which was one of the largest, richest and most famous monasteries in Russia in 15-17th centuries. You will also visit the Museum of Russian Icons, with more than 1,000 icons and related artefacts, the Museum offers a unique and personalized experience rich with art, history, and culture. BLD
Onboard MS Mstislav Rostropovich

DAY 7 KIZHI
Cruise along Lake Onega to the World-Heritage listed Kizhi Island for a tour of the Museum of Wooden Architecture with the iconic Church of the Transfiguration. The 300 years old multi-dome church is most noted for being constructed entirely without nails. BLD
Onboard MS Mstislav Rostropovich

DAY 8 MANDROGI
This morning, cruise to the traditional Russian village of Mandrogi to view some fine examples of wooden architecture. A barbeque lunch will be served ashore, where you have a chance to taste the Russian shashlik (kebab). BLD
Onboard MS Mstislav Rostropovich

DAY 9 ST. PETERSBURG
Today during your city tour you will see the imperial palaces and stunning cathedrals of St. Petersburg. Visit the Peter and Paul Fortress, which houses the burial vault of the Romanov dynasty followed by lunch in a local restaurant. This afternoon is reserved for a tour of the world-renowned Hermitage Museum. BLD
Onboard MS Mstislav Rostropovich

DAY 10 ST. PETERSBURG
Your cruise concludes after breakfast with a transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. B
Holiday Inn Moskovskaya Vorota (4star)

DAY 11 ST. PETERSBURG
A highlight of your holiday will be todays visit to Peterhof Palace & Gardens. Peter the Great built this grand summer palace in 1720 which is located 29kms from the city on the Gulf of Finland. Inspired by the Palace of Versailles in France, it was built to celebrate Peter's many military victories. Your tour guide will show you the many lavishly furnished staterooms, and then take you on a guided walk through the beautiful gardens including the world famous gold fountains of the Grand Cascade, the centrepiece of this magnificent estate. B
Holiday Inn Moskovskaya Vorota (4star)

DAY 12 ST. PETERSBURG
After breakfast and checkout of your hotel, your Impressions of Russia cruise tour concludes with a transfer to the airport for your onward journey. B