16-Day Solo Travel Itinerary in Russia: Exploring Moscow, Kazan, and Saint Petersburg

Day 1: Arrival and Settling In

Moscow, Russia on May 28, 2025

3:00pm

Arrive in Moscow

Arrive at Sheremetyevo International Airport, take Aeroexpress train to the city center for efficient transfer.
RUB500, 1h0m

5:00pm

Check-in and Relax

Check into a centrally located hotel like The Ritz-Carlton to decompress from travel before exploring.
RUB20000, Rest of Evening

7:00pm

Dinner at Mu-Mu

Enjoy traditional Russian comfort food in a casual setting, perfect to get a taste of local flavors.
RUB600, 1h0m

Day 2: Historic Moscow

Moscow, Russia on May 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Dr. Zhivago

Savor classic Russian breakfast dishes near Red Square to start the day energized.
RUB800, 1h0m

9:30am

Red Square and Kremlin Tour

Explore Moscow’s iconic Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and the Kremlin. Book guided tour for deep insights.
RUB1500, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Stolovaya No.57

Historic soviet-style canteen offering affordable traditional dishes in a vibrant atmosphere.
RUB500, 1h0m

2:30pm

Gorky Park and Garage Museum

Relax in Gorky Park and visit the contemporary art Garage Museum nearby for creative inspiration.
RUB700, 2h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at White Rabbit

Dine at one of Moscow’s best restaurants enjoying innovative Russian cuisine with city views.
RUB3500, 2h0m

Day 3: Cultural Immersion

Moscow, Russia on May 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Pushkin

Experience elegant Russian breakfast in a baroque mansion with nostalgic ambiance.
RUB1200, 1h0m

9:30am

Tretyakov Gallery

View Russia’s premier collection of classic and modern Russian art in this massive gallery.
RUB700, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at LavkaLavka

Enjoy farm-to-table Russian dishes using fresh, local ingredients.
RUB800, 1h0m

2:30pm

Moscow Metro Tour

Discover the architectural marvels of Moscow’s metro stations with a self-guided or guided tour.
RUB100, 2h0m

5:00pm

Evening Walk by Moscow River

Enjoy a leisurely walk or boat cruise along the river at sunset.
RUB1000, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Varenichnaya No.1

Casual spot famous for traditional dumplings and hearty Russian dishes.
RUB600, 1h0m

Day 4: Modern Moscow

Moscow, Russia on May 31, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Kofemania

Trendy coffee shop in the city center serving excellent coffee and light breakfast.
RUB700, 0h45m

9:00am

VDNKh Park and Space Museum

Explore the large exhibition park and the Museum of Cosmonautics for exciting space history.
RUB500, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Mari Vanna

Experience a cozy Soviet-era ambiance with classic Russian home-style cooking.
RUB1100, 1h15m

2:00pm

Contemporary art at Winzavod

Visit Russia’s largest contemporary art center located in old wine factory buildings.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Relax at Zaryadye Park

New urban park with beautiful landscaping and views of the Kremlin and Moscow river.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at White Rabbit

Optional revisit or alternative modern cuisine experience with panoramic city views.
RUB3500, 2h0m

Day 5: Day Trip to Sergiev Posad

Moscow Region, Russia on June 1, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Light breakfast before day trip to Sergiev Posad, a spiritual heart of Russian Orthodoxy.
Included, 0h30m

8:30am

Train to Sergiev Posad

Take the commuter train (1.5 hours) from Moscow Yaroslavsky Station to this historic town.
RUB400, 1h30m

10:30am

Visit Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage monastery complex with beautiful churches and museums.
Free entry, 3h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Stareyshina

Enjoy traditional Russian meals in a cozy atmosphere in Sergiev Posad.
RUB700, 1h0m

3:30pm

Return to Moscow

Catch the return train to Moscow for a relaxed evening.
RUB400, 1h30m

5:30pm

Evening Leisure

Free time to explore nearby city sites or rest after the trip.
N/A, Evening

7:00pm

Dinner at LavkaLavka

Enjoy locally sourced dishes in a relaxed setting to wind down the day.
RUB800, 1h0m

Day 6: Departure to Kazan

Moscow to Kazan, Russia on June 2, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Early breakfast before domestic flight to Kazan.
Included, 0h30m

9:00am

Flight to Kazan

Direct morning flight from Moscow Domodedovo to Kazan (2h 15m flight).
RUB4000, 2h15m

11:30am

Check-in and rest

Check into a well-reviewed hotel like Tatarstan Hotel, centrally located near the Kazan Kremlin.
RUB7000, Rest of Morning

1:00pm

Lunch at Chak-Chak Cafe

Try traditional Tatar cuisine including chak-chak sweets at this popular cafe.
RUB700, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Kazan Kremlin

UNESCO site featuring Qol Sharif Mosque, Annunciation Cathedral, and museums. Open 10am-6pm.
RUB500, 3h0m

6:00pm

Walk along Kazanka River

Relax with scenic views and local street food vendors on the embankment.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Dom Tatarskoy Kulinarii

Dine on authentic Tatar dishes in a traditional setting.
RUB900, 1h0m

Day 7: Kazan Heritage

Kazan, Russia on June 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel or nearby cafe

Enjoy a convenient breakfast before a day of exploring the city.
Included, 0h45m

9:00am

Visit Temple of All Religions

An architectural complex celebrating multiculturalism, open 10am-6pm, great for photos.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Söyembikä Tower and Minor Mosque

Explore historic symbols of Kazan within the Kremlin and nearby streets.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Kebab House

Enjoy freshly grilled kebabs with a local twist at a casual eatery.
RUB700, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit National Museum of the Republic of Tatarstan

Learn about regional history and culture through engaging exhibits. Open 10am-6pm daily.
RUB400, 2h0m

5:00pm

Boat Ride on Kazanka River

Enjoy a relaxing hour-long boat ride admiring city views on the river.
RUB800, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Pashmir

Upscale restaurant offering Tatar and European fusion cuisine.
RUB1500, 1h30m

Day 8: Nature and Art

Kazan, Russia on June 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Coffee Shop

Light breakfast at a local favorite with great coffee.
RUB400, 0h45m

9:00am

Visit Riviera Aquapark

Enjoy some leisure time swimming and relaxing at this popular water park. Open 10am-9pm.
RUB1000, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Cafe Dostyk

Try Kazan’s delicious traditional pastries and local dishes.
RUB700, 1h0m

2:00pm

Kazan Federal University Botanical Garden

Relax with a stroll in the beautiful gardens maintained by the university.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit National Art Museum

Explore extensive collections of Russian and Tatar art, open until 6pm.
RUB450, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Tatarsky Dvorik

Enjoy hearty Tatar folk cuisine in an atmospheric setting.
RUB1000, 1h30m

Day 9: Kazan to Saint Petersburg

Kazan to Saint Petersburg, Russia on June 5, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Standard early breakfast before travel day.
Included, 0h30m

9:00am

Flight Kazan to Saint Petersburg

Direct flight for about 2 hours to the cultural capital of Russia.
RUB4500, 2h10m

11:30am

Check-in and Rest

Settle into a central hotel like the Kempinski Moika 22 near Nevsky Prospect.
RUB8000, Rest of Day

1:00pm

Lunch at Pyshechnaya

Try classic Russian oven-fresh doughnuts and coffee in this nostalgic eatery.
RUB400, 1h0m

2:30pm

Nevsky Prospect Walk

Take a leisurely stroll on Saint Petersburg’s main street for shopping, architecture, and atmosphere.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Visit Kazan Cathedral

Explore this iconic cathedral open from 8am to 8pm, a masterpiece of Russian religion and architecture.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Teplo

Cozy and warm restaurant serving hearty Russian homemade cuisine.
RUB1000, 1h30m

Day 10: Art and Palaces

Saint Petersburg, Russia on June 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Coffeemania

Popular spot on Nevsky for great coffee and continental breakfast.
RUB600, 1h0m

9:30am

Hermitage Museum

Visit World-class collection of art and history housed in the Winter Palace, open 10am-6pm except Monday.
RUB700, 4h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Stroganoff Steak House

Classic Russian dishes with elegant atmosphere near the museum.
RUB1300, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Peter and Paul Fortress

Explore this historic fortress with cathedral and museums, open 10am-6pm.
RUB500, 2h0m

6:00pm

Walk along the Neva River Embankments

Enjoy scenic views and photo opportunities of bridges and historic buildings.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Kabak

Casual restaurant serving a blend of Russian and Eastern European dishes.
RUB900, 1h30m

Day 11: Palace and Gardens

Saint Petersburg, Russia on June 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pirogovaya

Try Russian pies and breakfast specialties in a traditional setting.
RUB600, 0h45m

9:30am

Day trip to Peterhof Palace

Take a hydrofoil boat (or bus) to Peterhof, famous for its grand palaces and fountains, open 10am-6pm.
RUB1500 transport + RUB1000 entry, 5h0m

2:30pm

Lunch at Peterhof Cafe

Enjoy light meals and refreshments inside the palace grounds.
RUB700, 1h0m

4:00pm

Return to Saint Petersburg

Hydrofoil back to city center, relax for remainder of afternoon.
Included in transport cost, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Marketplace

Trendy venue with great variety including Russian and global cuisine.
RUB1200, 1h30m

Day 12: Museums & Canal Tour

Saint Petersburg, Russia on June 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Singer

Relaxed breakfast with views of Nevsky Prospect and Kazan Cathedral.
RUB700, 1h0m

9:30am

Russian Museum

Explore Russia’s largest collection of Russian art, open 10am - 6pm.
RUB600, 2h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Zoom Cafe

Casual cafe offering a variety of hearty dishes and excellent coffee.
RUB700, 1h0m

2:00pm

Canal Boat Tour

Guided 1.5 hour boat ride through Saint Petersburg’s canals showcasing beautiful architecture.
RUB1200, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood

Famous for its colorful mosaics, open until 6pm.
RUB350, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Khachapuri I Vino

Georgian cuisine favorite with delicious khachapuri and wine options.
RUB900, 1h30m

Day 13: Petersburg Offbeat

Saint Petersburg, Russia on June 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bufet

Trendy spot with a varied breakfast menu and fresh juices.
RUB600, 0h45m

9:30am

Visit Fabergé Museum

Showcases exquisite art and jewelry including the famous Fabergé eggs, open 10am-8pm.
RUB700, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Prostokvashino

Cozy place known for Russian and Siberian specialties.
RUB700, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Museum of Soviet Arcade Machines

Nostalgic arcade museum offering fun and history, open 11am-9pm.
RUB300, 1h0m

3:00pm

Explore New Holland Island

Hip cultural space with galleries, bars, and gardens, great place to relax and people-watch.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Idiot

Eclectic restaurant with creative dishes and a cozy vibe.
RUB1200, 1h30m

Day 14: Day trip to Pushkin and Pavlovsk

Saint Petersburg Nearby, Russia on June 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Early breakfast before day trip to royal estates.
Included, 0h30m

8:30am

Train to Pushkin

Take suburban train to Pushkin (Tsarskoye Selo), about 30min ride.
RUB100, 0h30m

9:00am

Visit Catherine Palace

Famous palace with Amber Room, extensive gardens open 10am-6pm.
RUB1200, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Pushkin Café

Local favorite serving Russian classics near the palace.
RUB700, 1h0m

2:00pm

Travel to Pavlovsk

Short bus or taxi ride (20min) to Pavlovsk park and palace.
RUB200, 0h30m

2:30pm

Explore Pavlovsk Palace and Park

Sprawling park and palace complex to enjoy late afternoon nature walks, open 10am-6pm.
RUB600, 3h0m

6:00pm

Return to Saint Petersburg

Travel back to the city center by train or taxi.
RUB300, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Duo Gastrobar

Modern cuisine in a stylish setting, perfect final meal in Saint Petersburg.
RUB1500, 1h30m

Day 15: Final Day in Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg, Russia on June 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Turandot

Enjoy a luxurious breakfast in a palatial restaurant with decorative interiors.
RUB1200, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Mikhailovsky Garden and Arts Square

Relaxing green spaces with sculptures, perfect for a morning stroll.
Free, 1h0m

10:30am

Shopping at Gostiny Dvor

Browse souvenirs, Russian crafts, and local products at this historic shopping arcade.
Varies, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Teplo or local cafe

Fill up on hearty Russian dishes or light lunch before packing.
RUB1000, 1h0m

3:00pm

Leisure time and hotel check-out

Prepare for departure with relaxing time or last sightseeing moments.
N/A, Afternoon

6:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Mansarda

Dine at this rooftop restaurant offering stunning views of Saint Petersburg’s skyline.
RUB1800, 2h0m

Day 16: Departure

Saint Petersburg to Riyadh via Moscow on June 12, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Light breakfast before early transfer to the airport.
Included, 0h30m

8:00am

Check-out and Airport Transfer

Take taxi or hotel shuttle to Pulkovo Airport.
RUB1000, 0h45m

10:00am

Flight Saint Petersburg to Moscow

Domestic flight connecting to international flight home.
RUB4000, 2h0m

12:30pm

Transit and connecting flight to Riyadh

Make your connecting flight at Moscow airport and fly back to Riyadh.
Included in inbound ticket, Flight duration varies