Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 53 travelers

7-Day Itinerary: Exploring Russia

Saturday, September 23: Arrive in Moscow

Start your trip by arriving in the vibrant city of Moscow. In the morning, visit the iconic Red Square and explore the magnificent St. Basil's Cathedral. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the Kremlin, home to the Russian president and a fascinating historical site. As the evening sets in, enjoy a traditional Russian dinner at a local restaurant.

  • Red Square: Approximately $0, 3 hours
  • Kremlin Tour: Approximately $25, 2-3 hours
  • Dinner at a local restaurant: Approximately $20, 1-2 hours
Sunday, September 24: Moscow

Discover more of Moscow's cultural treasures on your second day. Start your morning with a visit to the famous Tretyakov Gallery, housing an extensive collection of Russian art. In the afternoon, take a leisurely boat ride along the Moscow River for panoramic views of the city. In the evening, attend a ballet or opera performance at the magnificent Bolshoi Theatre.

  • Tretyakov Gallery: Approximately $10, 2-3 hours
  • Moscow River boat ride: Approximately $15, 1-2 hours
  • Ballet/Opera performance at Bolshoi Theatre: Approximately $50, 3 hours
Monday, September 25: St. Petersburg

Board a high-speed train to St. Petersburg, Russia's cultural capital. Start your morning by exploring the extravagant State Hermitage Museum, home to one of the world's largest art collections. In the afternoon, stroll along the beautiful Nevsky Prospect, the city's main avenue, and visit the impressive Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Russian dinner at a local restaurant.

  • State Hermitage Museum: Approximately $15, 3-4 hours
  • Nevsky Prospect: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood: Approximately $5, 1-2 hours
  • Dinner at a local restaurant: Approximately $20, 1-2 hours
Tuesday, September 26: St. Petersburg

Continue exploring St. Petersburg's architectural marvels on your fourth day. Start your morning with a visit to the Peter and Paul Fortress, the city's oldest landmark. In the afternoon, take a boat tour along the canals to admire the city's beautiful bridges and elegant palaces. In the evening, attend a classical music concert at the renowned Mariinsky Theatre.

  • Peter and Paul Fortress: Approximately $10, 2-3 hours
  • Canal boat tour: Approximately $20, 1-2 hours
  • Classical music concert at Mariinsky Theatre: Approximately $50, 2-3 hours
Wednesday, September 27: Trans-Siberian Railway

Embark on an unforgettable journey aboard the Trans-Siberian Railway. Spend the day traveling from St. Petersburg to Irkutsk, enjoying breathtaking landscapes along the way. Immerse yourself in the unique experience of traversing Siberia, the longest railway line in the world. Savor meals onboard and interact with fellow travelers.

  • Trans-Siberian Railway ticket: Approximately $500, full day
Thursday, September 28: Lake Baikal

Arrive in Irkutsk and make your way to the stunning Lake Baikal, the deepest and oldest freshwater lake in the world. Spend the day exploring the lake's pristine beauty. Take a boat tour to visit the nearby islands and enjoy a picnic by the lake. In the evening, experience a traditional Russian sauna, known as a banya.

  • Lake Baikal boat tour: Approximately $50, 4-5 hours
  • Picnic by the lake: Approximately $10, 1-2 hours
  • Traditional Russian sauna (banya): Approximately $30, 2-3 hours
Friday, September 29: Return to Moscow

Head back to Moscow from Irkutsk, marking the end of your journey. Take a relaxing day to revisit any favorite sights or explore new areas in the city. In the evening, indulge in a farewell dinner at a fine dining restaurant.

  • Return flight/train ticket to Moscow: Approximately $300, full day
  • Explore Moscow: Free, 6-8 hours
  • Farewell dinner at a fine dining restaurant: Approximately $50, 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Russia, don't miss the hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the enchanting Peterhof Palace and Gardens in St. Petersburg, often called the "Russian Versailles." Take a detour to the ancient city of Suzdal, known for its well-preserved architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Finally, indulge in traditional Russian cuisine at local cafés and try dishes like borscht, pelmeni, and blini.

Before your trip, make sure to check hotel and flight prices on Kayak.com.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version