Festive Russia

DAY 1 Arrive St. Petersburg (3 Nights)

Imposing, stately, magnificent - St. Petersburg extends her warm welcome for a festive sojourn that will see you visit two imperial cities cloaked in a magical winter blanket. Meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception and light dinner at your hotel before an enchanting introduction of the city during an orientation drive.

HOTEL Courtyard by Marriott Vasilievsky or similar

DAY 2

St. Petersburg Sightseeing

Admire Peter the Great's inspiring vision that culminated in the creation of a majestic city to rival Europe's most magnificent capitals. Join your Local Specialist on a sightseeing tour that will take you past the Tsar's regal Winter Palace, St. Isaac's Cathedral and the grand avenue of Nevsky Prospekt. Included is a visit to the 18th- century Peter and Paul Fortress.

DAY 3

Hermitage Museum Visit and St. Petersburg

Catherine the Great's cherished collection of art takes centre stage today as we - 'Dive Into Culture' to enjoy a Small Group Sightseeing visit to the Hermitage Museum with a Local Specialist. Navigate the spectacular corridors that house one of the world's largest and most valuable art collections representing the development of world culture and art from the Stone Age to the 20th century. Spend the rest of the day exploring the grand boulevards, golden spires and regal façades of this great city. Why not end your St. Petersburg visit in a colourful whirl of traditional dance at a Russian folklore show?

DAY 4

St. Petersburg – High-Speed Train – Moscow (3 Nights)

Tuck into hearty Russian fare before embarking by high-speed train to Moscow, passing a wintery landscape of soaring church spires and small villages. The Russian capital wears its extraordinary triumphs and tumultuous history on its sleeve and we have an opportunity to explore both over the next few days. Follow the imposing red walls of the Kremlin and chilly banks of the Moskva River on this exploration of Russia's political, economic, religious and financial hub.

HOTEL Marriott Tverskaya or similar

DAY 5

Moscow Christmas Markets

An enchanting winter wonderland awaits as we admire the more than 400 dazzling light installations that illuminate the city for its annual Christmas Light festival. Stroll through city squares that come alive with Christmas Market stalls. Smells of mulled wine, gingerbread and caviar-filled crepes fill the air while stalls spill over with an astounding array of handcrafted gifts. Join a Local Specialist on a sightseeing tour to see the vibrant façade of St. Basil's Cathedral and visit the Kremlin. There's plenty of time later to stock up on festive souvenirs and explore one of the world's grandest cities on your own terms.

DAY 6

Moscow and Free Day

Moscow's fascinating history and culture are yours to explore today. Spend your full day at leisure discovering the victories and tragedies that have shaped this magnificent city, from the elegant frescoed metro stations to the sad graveyard of Fallen Monuments. Consider visiting one of the city's museums or take an Optional Experience to Sergiyev Posad, the largest religious and cultural centre in Russia. Our journey together is almost at its end as we join our travel companions for a Farewell Dinner.

DAY 7

Depart Moscow

For now it's time to say a sad do svidaniya to two great Russian cities. Airport transfers are available. Conditions apply.

Sightseeing Highlights

• CITY TOUR in St. Petersburg and Moscow
• SMALL GROUP SIGHTSEEING visit to the home of the Tsars on a guided tour with a group size of fewer than 25 guests, exploring the treasures of St. Petersburg's Hermitage Museum
• VISIT the Hermitage Museum, the Peter and Paul Fortress in St. Petersburg and the Kremlin in Moscow