5-Day Itinerary for Russia in October 2023

1. Day 1: The Kremlin
   10 minutes (1.3 miles) from Hotel National, Moscow

   In the morning, explore the grandeur of the historic complex with stunning architecture and cathedrals. After lunch, visit the Armoury Chamber to see the lavish collection of jewels, armor, and weapons. In the evening, enjoy the fascinating museums inside the Kremlin walls, including the Diamond Fund and the State Historical Museum.

2. Day 2: Red Square
   5 minutes (0.3 miles) from The Kremlin

   Start the day by admiring the iconic St. Basil's Cathedral and Lenin's Mausoleum. Visit the impressive GUM shopping mall and then head to the State Historical Museum to learn about the history of Russia. In the evening, enjoy the lights and sounds of the Red Square.

3. Day 3: Hermitage Museum
   20 minutes (3.1 miles) from W St. Petersburg

   Discover the world's largest collection of paintings and works of art at the Hermitage Museum. In the morning, explore the main collection, including Italian Renaissance art, the Flemish and Dutch Schools, and French art. After lunch, head to the General Staff Building to see the Impressionists and Post-Impressionists galleries. In the evening, stroll along the Neva River and enjoy the beautiful view of the city.

4. Day 4: Peterhof Palace
   50 minutes (16.6 miles) from W St. Petersburg

   Marvel at the beautiful grand palace and stunning fountain garden, known as the "Russian Versailles." In the morning, explore the lower park and fountains. After lunch, discover the upper park and palace. In the evening, return to St. Petersburg and visit the Church of the Savior on Blood, with its elaborate mosaics.

5. Day 5: Yusupov Palace
   15 minutes (3.1 miles) from Four Seasons Hotel Lion Palace St. Petersburg

   Explore the luxurious Yusupov Palace, the site of Rasputin's assassination. In the morning, visit the elegant interiors and the beautiful private theater. After lunch, learn about the mysterious life and death of Rasputin in the exhibitions. In the evening, take a boat ride along the canals and admire the cityscape.

Recommendations

If you have more time, don't miss a visit to the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow and the Faberge Museum in St. Petersburg. Side trips to Sergiev Posad and Peter and Paul Fortress are also worth considering. To maximize your fun, try the traditional Russian cuisine at Café Pushkin and Mari Vanna in Moscow, and at Palkin and Cococo in St. Petersburg. Finally, to get a glimpse of local life, visit the Izmaylovo Market in Moscow and the Kuznechny Market in St. Petersburg.

Time and Costs Estimates

• The Kremlin (4-5 hours, 1100 RUB)
• Red Square (3-4 hours, free)
• Hermitage Museum (5-6 hours, 700 RUB)
• Peterhof Palace (5-6 hours, 1000 RUB)
• Yusupov Palace (3-4 hours, 600 RUB)
• Total Estimated Costs: 3410 RUB