Russia Adventure: August 20 - August 30, 2025

Day 1: Arrival in Moscow & Red Square Visit

Morning: Arrive in Moscow and settle into your accommodation. Take a short rest before starting your Russian adventure.

Afternoon: Explore Red Square, the historic heart of Moscow. Visit the iconic St. Basil’s Cathedral and admire the colorful onion domes.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a traditional Russian restaurant near the Kremlin and soak in the vibrant city atmosphere.

Day 2: Kremlin and Armory Chamber

Morning: Tour the famous Moscow Kremlin, including the cathedrals and grand palaces within the complex. Learn about Russia’s political and cultural history.

Afternoon: Visit the Armory Chamber, showcasing Russia’s royal treasures and artifacts from centuries past.

Evening: Take a leisurely walk along the Moskvoretskaya Embankment enjoying scenic views of the Kremlin illuminated at night.

Day 3: Tretyakov Gallery & Gorky Park

Morning: Explore the Tretyakov Gallery, home to one of the world's finest collections of Russian fine art.

Afternoon: Relax and unwind in Gorky Park, where you can rent a bike or boat and enjoy the open green spaces.

Evening: Dine at a café overlooking the Moscow River, experiencing modern Russian cuisine with a view.

Day 4: Travel to St. Petersburg & Evening Canal Cruise

Morning: Take a high-speed train to St. Petersburg, enjoying scenic landscapes en route.

Afternoon: Check into your hotel and begin exploring the nearby Nevsky Prospect, the city’s main thoroughfare.

Evening: Experience a magical canal boat cruise giving you a unique perspective of St. Petersburg’s historic architecture illuminated at night.

Day 5: Hermitage Museum & Palace Square

Morning: Visit the world-renowned Hermitage Museum, exploring its vast art collections housed in the Winter Palace.

Afternoon: Spend time at Palace Square, admiring the Alexander Column and the grand facades surrounding the area.

Evening: Attend a performance at the Mariinsky Theatre if available or enjoy a quiet dinner nearby.

Day 6: Peterhof Palace & Gardens

Morning: Travel to Peterhof Palace, often called the “Russian Versailles,” to explore its magnificent fountains and gardens.

Afternoon: Continue to explore the extensive parklands and smaller palaces located throughout the estate.

Evening: Return to St. Petersburg and enjoy a relaxing stroll along the Neva River embankments.

Day 7: Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood & Russian Museum

Morning: Visit the ornate Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, known for its vivid mosaics and colorful domes.

Afternoon: Head to the Russian Museum, showcasing the history of Russian fine art in a beautiful historic setting.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a cozy local bistro in the Pushkin Square area.

Day 8: Day Trip to Catherine Palace in Pushkin

Morning: Take a short trip to Pushkin (Tsarskoye Selo) to explore the stunning Catherine Palace and the famous Amber Room.

Afternoon: Wander the expansive palace grounds and gardens, enjoying the peaceful environment.

Evening: Return to St. Petersburg for a farewell dinner featuring traditional Russian dishes.

Day 9: Departure

Morning: Free time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing on Nevsky Prospect.

Afternoon: Transfer to the airport for your departure flight, bidding farewell to Russia.

Evening: Reflect on your journey home and enjoy your memories from this incredible adventure.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Red Square and St. Basil’s Cathedral: 3 hours, $20
• Moscow Kremlin & Armory Chamber: 4 hours, $35
• Tretyakov Gallery: 2.5 hours, $15
• Gorky Park activities: 3 hours, $10 (bike/boat rental)
• Canal boat cruise in St. Petersburg: 2 hours, $25
• Hermitage Museum: 4 hours, $30
• Peterhof Palace & Gardens: 5 hours, $25
• Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood: 2 hours, $15
• Russian Museum: 2.5 hours, $15
• Catherine Palace (Pushkin): 5 hours, $30

Total Estimated Cost: $220

Tips

If you wish to extend your trip, consider spending extra days exploring Siberia or the Golden Ring cities to experience Russia’s diverse culture and landscapes. To shorten the trip, focus solely on either Moscow or St. Petersburg to reduce travel time while still enjoying rich historical and artistic experiences.