b"ST PETERSBURG YOUR ITINERARY 3 St Petersburg SCANDINAVIA AND RUSSIA RUSSIADays 1-2To Moscow We fly to Moscow, experiencing the spirit of Russian hospitality with a traditional welcome ceremony at our hotel, where were greeted with a serving of bread and salt - a folk custom associated with long and happy friendships. We delve into the citys fascinating heritage on Day 2s sightseeing tour. First, we visit Sparrow Hills to soak up theMoscow 3wonderful views before continuing to the Temple of the Holy Trinity and the world-famous Red Square. Here, were surrounded by history and aNights in hotel Railkaleidoscope of colour; red brick walls and gilded church roofs in swirls of blues, greens and yellows. We see some of Moscows most iconicUNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCESsights, including the multi-coloured domes of Saint Basils Cathedral and Lenins Mausoleum, where its possible to view the body of theTour vibrant Moscow, seeing former communist leader. Our final stop is the prestigious Moscowthe Kremlin, Red Square, Sparrow State University. Founded in 1755, this was Russias very first university. Hills and the ornate metro system.Day 3 - The Kremlin and metro system Explore St Petersburg, visiting We visit arguably the most famous landmark in Russia, the Kremlin.Peterhof Palace and the Located in the heart of Moscow, this imposing red brick fortress isHermitage.surrounded by 18th-century towers and is a striking sight. Step backGet an authentic taste of Russia in time as we take a tour of the extensive grounds, gaining an insightat the Vodka Museum, sampling into its history as we walk amongst places where momentous politicalthree different types of vodka.decisions have been made. Afterwards, we enjoy a unique tour of HIGHLIGHTS OF MOSCOW Moscows Metro system, which dates back to the 1930s, discoveringVisit the Literature Caf for marble and bronze halls decorated with chandeliers, stained glass andafternoon tea.AND ST PETERSBURG elegant columns. Experience a unique Russian Day 4 - To St Petersburgwelcome ceremony.7 DAYS FROM 1,595 We leave Moscow on the modern Sapsan train, making our way to StWHAT'S INCLUDEDPetersburg. Named after the Russian word for Peregrine Falcon, our journey gives us a glimpse into the Russia that exists outside of the Discover two breathtaking cities on this culture-rich holiday. Starting in Moscow,main cities as were whisked through industrial towns and suburbs andUK Tour Manager throughoutvisit world-class attractions including the Kremlin and Red Square, before travellingacross stark pastoral landscapes.Flights from London Heathrow to to St Petersburg - a city so rich in history its entire centre is UNESCO-listed. Day 5 - Sightseeing in St Petersburg Moscow and from St Petersburg We discover the grandeur of St Petersburg on a guided tour, seeing theto London Heathrow via GermanyPeter and Paul Fortress, an elegant citadel founded in 1703 that wasAll rail and coach transfers later used as a prison for criminal political activists. Since the 1920s,6 nights 4-Star hotel the site has housed the St Petersburg Museum of History, and we haveaccommodationfree time to admire the enthralling exhibitions. Next, we transfer to ST BASILS CATHEDRALthe St Petersburg Museum of Russian Vodka where we enjoy a taste10 meals including 6 breakfasts of Russias national drink. We sample three different types of vodka -and 4 dinnersSpend time exploring Russias iconic Red Square,classic, juniper and ubrwka, alongside some traditional snacks. ThisAll tour excursionsperhaps the jewel in the crown of the city ofafternoon, enjoy time to explore St Petersburg at your own pace. Moscow. Here, amongst the quaint cobblestonesDay 6 - Peterhof Palace and the Hermitage and grand historic structures, stands the famousWe discover one of St Petersburgs cultural highlights today, PeterhofREGIONAL DEPARTURE AVAILABLEcoral-hued St. Basils Cathedral, both a stunningPalace and Park. Sometimes referred to as a Russian Versailles, thisfrom Manchester from 75 per person.and enduring landmark.opulent complex and UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its With its round, brilliantly-distinctive onion domes inbeautiful grounds, filled with spectacular fountains and waterways.2022 TOUR DATESa kaleidoscope of rainbow hues, the cathedral is anA string of glittering palaces constructed by Peter the Great, we see instantly recognisable feature of the citys skyline.some of the most lavish artworks and ornaments that the world hasMay 13 1,595 Jul 8 1,795It was constructed in about 1550 by Ivan theto offer. Next up is the Hermitage. Founded by Catherine the Great inJun 17 1,895 Sep 2 1,695Terrible, and, fascinatingly, has changed very little1764 and housed in the grandest rooms of the Royal Winter Palace, this since its completion. Today, St Basils Cathedralmesmerising museum boasts over three million artefacts from different2023 TOUR DATESis undoubtedly one of the worlds architecturalcountries and eras. We pause this afternoon for tea at the LiteratureMay 5 1,695 Jul 7 1,795wonders, and a must-see for any visitor to Moscow.Caf, a historic restaurant once frequented by famous Russian writersJun 23 1,795 Sep 1 1,695in the 19th century. Tour Code: MPJ| per person based on 2 Day 7 - Home sharing. Deposit from 300 per person. Leaving St Petersburg, we transfer to the airport for our flight toSupplement for solo travellers from 395. Please London Heathrow or Manchester, travelling via Germany.note the itinerary for 2022 departures may differ, please call for more details. For the latest guidance on entry requirements, please visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice26 SCANDINAVIA AND RUSSIACall us on 01904 527194 or visit GreatRail.com for more details 27"