A Week in Russia: City Experiences

Thursday, October 19: Arrival in Moscow

Start your trip in the bustling city of Moscow, the capital of Russia. In the morning, visit the iconic Red Square, home to famous landmarks like St. Basil's Cathedral and the Kremlin. Explore the historical sites and immerse yourself in the rich culture of the city. In the afternoon, take a stroll along Arbat Street, known for its charming shops, cafes, and street performers. As the evening sets in, head to Gorky Park, a popular recreational area, to relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

  • Red Square: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Arbat Street: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Gorky Park: Free, 2-3 hours
Friday, October 20: Exploring St. Petersburg

Take a morning flight from Moscow to St. Petersburg, the cultural capital of Russia. Start your day by visiting the magnificent Hermitage Museum, one of the largest and oldest museums in the world. Spend the afternoon exploring the Peter and Paul Fortress, the birthplace of St. Petersburg, and enjoy panoramic views from the fortress walls. In the evening, take a leisurely boat ride along the beautiful canals of the city.

  • Hermitage Museum: RUB 700 (approx. $10), 3-4 hours
  • Peter and Paul Fortress: RUB 350 (approx. $5), 2-3 hours
  • Canal Boat Ride: RUB 500 (approx. $7), 1-2 hours
Saturday, October 21: Kazan – The Tatar Capital

Fly from St. Petersburg to Kazan, the capital city of the Republic of Tatarstan. In the morning, explore the UNESCO-listed Kazan Kremlin, a historic fortress complex that showcases the city's unique blend of Russian and Tatar cultures. Visit the Qol Sharif Mosque and the Annunciation Cathedral within the Kremlin walls. In the afternoon, take a walk along Bauman Street, the central pedestrian zone, and indulge in local Tatar cuisine. In the evening, catch a performance at the Kazan Opera and Ballet Theatre.

  • Kazan Kremlin: RUB 300 (approx. $4), 2-3 hours
  • Bauman Street: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Kazan Opera and Ballet Theatre: Ticket prices vary, 2-3 hours
Sunday, October 22: Sochi – The Olympic City

Fly from Kazan to Sochi, a resort city located on the Black Sea coast. Start your day by exploring the Olympic Park, home to the 2014 Winter Olympics. Visit the Fisht Stadium, the Olympic flame, and take a walk along the promenade. In the afternoon, relax on the sandy beaches of Sochi and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery. As the evening approaches, go for a stroll in the Riviera Park and experience the vibrant nightlife of the city.

  • Olympic Park: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Beaches of Sochi: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Riviera Park: Free, 2-3 hours
Monday, October 23: Yekaterinburg – The Gateway to Siberia

Fly from Sochi to Yekaterinburg, a city located on the eastern slopes of the Ural Mountains. In the morning, visit the Church on the Blood, a memorial built on the site where the last Russian Emperor, Nicholas II, and his family were executed. Explore the Ural Federal University, known for its impressive architecture. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the Yekaterinburg Museum of Fine Arts to appreciate the local art scene. As the evening sets in, enjoy a traditional Russian dinner at one of the city's authentic restaurants.

  • Church on the Blood: RUB 200 (approx. $3), 2-3 hours
  • Ural Federal University: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Yekaterinburg Museum of Fine Arts: RUB 300 (approx. $4), 2-3 hours
Tuesday, October 24: Novosibirsk – The Siberian Metropolis

Fly from Yekaterinburg to Novosibirsk, the third-largest city in Russia. Begin your day by visiting the Novosibirsk Opera and Ballet Theatre, one of the most prominent cultural institutions in the country. Explore Lenin Square, the central square of the city, and admire the impressive Lenin Monument. In the afternoon, take a stroll along the Ob River embankment and enjoy the scenic views. As the evening approaches, venture into the vibrant nightlife scene of Novosibirsk.

  • Novosibirsk Opera and Ballet Theatre: Ticket prices vary, 2-3 hours
  • Lenin Square: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Ob River Embankment: Free, 2-3 hours
Wednesday, October 25: Return to Moscow

Take a morning flight from Novosibirsk back to Moscow. Spend your last day in Russia exploring the Tretyakov Gallery, home to a vast collection of Russian art. Walk along the trendy streets of the Arbat District and visit the iconic Cathedral of Christ the Savior. In the evening, indulge in a traditional Russian dinner at a local restaurant and reflect on your memorable journey through Russia.

  • Tretyakov Gallery: RUB 500 (approx. $7), 3-4 hours
  • Arbat District: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Cathedral of Christ the Savior: Free, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When in Moscow, make sure to visit the enchanting Izmailovsky Market, known for its traditional crafts, antiques, and souvenirs. Take a break from the city buzz and explore the peaceful Kolomenskoye Park, home to beautiful gardens and historical buildings. In St. Petersburg, venture beyond the main tourist areas and discover the quirky street art scene in the neighborhood of Ligovsky Prospekt. Don't miss the opportunity to try traditional Russian banya (sauna) in Kazan, a cultural experience loved by locals.

Hotel and flight prices can be checked at Kayak.

0