7-Day Russia Highlights Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration in Moscow

Morning: Arrive at Sheremetyevo Airport and transfer to your hotel in the city centre. After settling in, take a leisurely walk to the iconic Red Square and soak in its historic atmosphere.

Afternoon: Dive into Russian history with a guided tour of the Kremlin & Armoury Museum, admiring the tsarist treasures and golden domes. A short stroll brings you to the colourful St. Basil's Cathedral for photo opportunities.

Evening: Enjoy a welcome dinner at a traditional Russian restaurant, sampling dishes like borscht and beef stroganoff. End the night with a gentle evening walk around the illuminated square.

Day 2: Moscow Museums & Parks

Morning: Visit the world‑renowned Tretyakov Gallery to admire masterpieces of Russian art from the medieval era to the avant‑garde.

Afternoon: Relax in the sprawling Gorky Park, rent a bike, and watch locals enjoying outdoor activities. Stop by the nearby Moscow River embankment for a riverside coffee.

Evening: Experience a modern Russian performance at the Bolshoi Theatre or attend a jazz club in the vibrant Arbat district.

Day 3: Transfer to St. Petersburg

Morning: Check out of your Moscow hotel and board a high‑speed Sapsan train to St. Petersburg, enjoying the scenic countryside views during the 4‑hour journey.

Afternoon: Arrive and check into a boutique hotel near the Nevsky Prospect. Take a guided walking tour of the historic centre, passing the majestic Winter Palace exterior.

Evening: Embark on an enchanting boat cruise on the Neva River, watching the illuminated bridges and palaces reflect on the water.

Day 4: St. Petersburg Landmarks

Morning: Spend a few hours exploring the vast collections of the Hermitage Museum, home to works by Rembrandt, Da Vinci and Russian icons.

Afternoon: Walk to the historic Peter and Paul Fortress, climb the tower for panoramic city views, and learn about the founding of the city.

Evening: Stroll down Nevsky Prospect, dine at a riverside café, and optionally catch a ballet at the Mariinsky Theatre.

Day 5: Cultural Gems & Departure

Morning: Visit the stunning Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, marveling at its mosaic‑covered façade and opulent interior.

Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely lunch in the historic Pushkin Square area, followed by some last‑minute souvenir shopping.

Evening: Transfer to Pulkovo Airport for your departure, carrying memories of Russia’s imperial grandeur and vibrant culture.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Red Square – 2 hours – 0 RUB (free)
• Kremlin & Armoury Museum – 3 hours – 1 500 RUB
• St. Basil's Cathedral – 1.5 hours – 500 RUB
• Tretyakov Gallery – 2 hours – 900 RUB
• Gorky Park – 2 hours – 0 RUB (free)
• High‑speed train to St. Petersburg – 4 hours – 3 000 RUB
• Evening boat cruise on the Neva – 1.5 hours – 1 200 RUB
• Hermitage Museum – 3 hours – 1 200 RUB
• Peter and Paul Fortress – 2 hours – 400 RUB
• Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood – 1.5 hours – 600 RUB

Total Estimated Cost: 8 800 RUB

Tips

If you have extra days, consider extending the trip to include a Golden Ring tour, visiting historic towns like Suzdal and Vladimir for a deeper glimpse into medieval Russia. To shorten the itinerary, you can skip the Hermitage’s extensive galleries and focus on the palace’s exterior, or replace the evening boat cruise with a free walking tour of St. Petersburg’s canals.