Embrace the vivid colours of this fascinating part of the world and this holiday has some Insider Experiences that are unique to this holiday only.
Helsinki and the Treasures of Russia – 14 days
Embrace the vivid colours of this fascinating part of the world and this holiday has some Insider Experiences that are unique to this holiday only.
After spending 3 nights in Finland’s capital city, Helsinki, feel the might of empires long-past merge with ultra-modern living as you cruise through Russia. From the cultural hub of St Petersburg to the quirky capital Moscow, be amazed by the majesty of Russia’s expansive landscapes. See forested islands, cruise expansive lakes and visit remote villages. Experience friendly cultures, delicious cuisine and heart-warming regional tipples.
Day 1: Days 1 - Fly to Helsinki
You will fly from the UK to Finland’s vibrant capital city of Helsinki where you will check in to your hotel upon arrival. The coastal city of Helsinki offers an enchanting combination of natural, cultural and historical attractions.
Day 2: Day 2 - Helsinki
Your local guide will give you a tour of the city and discover the heart of the city, which is the harbour. You will then have the afternoon to yourself. We recommend trying some of the local food for dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 3: Day 3 - Helsinki
It is your final day in Helsinki so is time to make the most of your time here. You can choose to wander around the streets in your own time or join an optional excursion to Porvoo, one of the six medieval towns in Finland that is home to many Finish artists.
Day 4: Day 4 - Helsinki to St Petersburg
Day 5: Day 5 - St Petersburg
St. Petersburg is one of the prettiest cities in the world and today you will soon realise this is true for yourself. You will have a tour of the city where you can see the Nevsky Prospect, the University quarter, Palace Square and tour the Bath Block as well as the gardens in Peterhof Park. In the afternoon, there is an optional excursion of a guided tour of Peterhof Palace, once home to Peter and Katherine the Great.
Day 6: Day 6 - St Petersburg
What makes Vicksburg so special is the blend of old and new here that we are sure you are going to love too. The sweeping river views from here are also very special that you won’t be able to stop taking photos. Often called the “Red Carpet City of the South,” Southern hospitality is at its very best here, yet another reason for loving your time in Vicksburg. Today there is a hop-on-hop-off tour included with sights including the shopping district, Old Court House Museum and the Lower Mississippi River Museum.
Day 7: Day 7 - Mandrogi
Today is where the real river cruising experience begins as you leave St. Petersburg. arrive in Mandrogi, a tiny island village that is a living museum. Wander through the quirky collection of old wooden houses and see the famous Vodka Museum before a relaxing picnic lunch. Afterwards, re-board your ship and set sail along the peaceful Svir River.
Insider Experience. Today is your first Insider Experience. You will learn some Russian on board the boat ready for you to try out at your future stops in Russia.
Day 8: Day 8 - Kizhi
You will see the real Russian countryside today as you cruise towards Europe’s second largest lake, Lake Onega. You will moor at a little island situated in the middle of the lake called Kizhi. The island is famous for its picturesque wooden houses, windmills and churches. The gem of this island is the impressive 22-dome church. It’s impressive with its beauty but also with the fact that it was built without using a single nail.
Insider Experience. Your second Insider Experience is a guided walking tour through the Open Air Museum of Architecture, a renowned World Heritage-listed site on Kizhi Island.
Day 9: Day 9 - Goritsy
You will have a special cruise experience today as you cruise across ethereal White Lake that connects the Baltic and Caspian seas. Arrive in Goritsy, and enjoy a tour to one of the largest medieval abbeys in Russia, the Monastery of St Cyril. Today the monastery remains an important part of Russia’s spiritual history and so had a special place for much of Russia’s former leaders including the Romanovs.
Day 10: Day 10 - Yaroslavi
Today you get to discover the pearl of the Golden Ring cities, Yaroslavl. Founded by Prince Yaroslav the Wise, this is one of Russia’s oldest cities and dates back to the age of the Vikings. Explore the World Heritage-listed historic centre, adorned with classical architecture and golden-domed churches, and visit a 12th-century monastery.
Day 11: Day 11 - Uglich
A visit to Uglich means a day for you to embrace old Russia. See the former Kremlin of Uglich and visit the colourful Church of St Demetrios on the Blood, built on the site where Ivan the Terrible’s son Demetrios was mysteriously killed in 1591. The afternoon is about relaxing on board and enjoy the scenic views of the Volga River whilst you head to Moscow.
Day 12: Day 12 - Moscow
When you arrive in Moscow, explore some of the city’s landmarks and uncover 860 years of history on a tour with a local guide. See the famous Kremlin, the former home of previous Russian governments and Tsars, that also includes a visit the impressive armoury museum.
Day 13: Day 13 - Moscow
Today in Moscow, enjoy a tour of Russia’s most iconic monuments and legendary palaces as you head to Red Square, where you’ll admire the ornate beauty of the onion-domed St Basil’s Cathedral. Take in the famous GUM Department Store, Sparrow Hill and Lubyanka Square and see the city’s intriguing past play out through its striking imperial and Soviet architecture. This evening, enjoy a Farewell Dinner on board and share a toast to new friends with a glass of Russian vodka.
Day 14: Day 14 - Fly back to the UK
After enjoying your final breakfast onboard the ship, you will get your transfer back to the airport for your flight back home.
Glide by Russia’s picturesque scenery as you cruise the Volga, Svir and Neva rivers, as well as the many lakes this marvellous country has to offer, on a journey aboard the MS Rossia. This stylish and comfortable vessel offers a personalised experience with a maximum of 224 passengers on board. The ship features bars, a restaurant, a library and a beauty salon. Enjoy a Russian language lesson, cooking demonstration and learn traditional folk songs as you are charmed by the ship’s friendly crew.
On board, you’ll enjoy a range of traditional European, Ukrainian and Russian cuisine, as well as other specialities from the surrounding regions. Throughout the day, complimentary tea and coffee is always available to enjoy as you wish. A high staff-to-guest ration onboard each ship guarantees you’ll be well looked after on your river cruise adventure.
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