Author : denoll

Captivating beauty of Russia. Day 1 MOSCOW Upon arrival at the airport  transfer to your hotel and check-in. Day 2    MOSCOW    Full-day guided city tour. This tour takes visitors on a journey through the city’s rich history and modern charm, showcasing iconic landmarks such as Red Square, the Bolshoi Theatre, and the beautiful Cathedral of Christ the Savior. Travelers also have the opportunity to explore the bustling streets of Arbat, known for its lively atmosphere and eclectic shops. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, the Moscow City Tour provides valuable insight into the city’s culture, architecture, and way of life. It is an immersive experience that allows visitors to truly appreciate the beauty and diversity of Moscow. Day 3    MOSCOW    Full-day guided visit to Kremlin with 5 churches. This historic complex is a symbol of Russian power and grandeur, featuring stunning architectural masterpieces such as the Assumption Cathedral, the Ivan the Great Bell Tower, and the Grand Kremlin Palace. Visitors can explore the Kremlin’s fascinating museums, which house a vast collection of treasures ranging from imperial regalia to priceless artworks. Strolling through the Kremlin’s picturesque gardens and courtyards offers a serene escape from the bustling city life outside its walls. Whether admiring the intricate details of the Cathedral of the Annunciation or marveling at the sheer size of the Tsar Cannon, a visit to Moscow Kremlin provides a deep dive into Russia’s rich history and culture. Afternoon lunch in a local restaurant followed by photo stops in Sparrow Hill, University Belvedere and Moscow University and Christ the Saviour Cathedral. Day 4    MOSCOW- SERGIEV POSAD Full-day guided excursion to Sergiev Possad to visit Trinity Lavra. The Troitse Sergiev Lavra, also known as the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, is a prominent monastery and the spiritual center of the Russian Orthodox Church. It dates back to the 14th century and houses exquisite religious art, ancient frescoes, and the relics of Saint Sergius of Radonezh. Day 5    MOSCOW- ST. PETERSBURG   Sapsan train to St. Petersburg. Afternoon St. Petersburg with the city tour. The St. Petersburg City Tour is a must for anyone visiting Russia, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of this vibrantcity. From the iconic Peter and Paul Fortress to the stunning St. Isaac Cathedral, visitors are treated to a whirlwind tour of some of the city’s most famous landmarks. The tour also includes stops at the Church of the Spilled Blood, a unique example of Russian architecture, and the elegant Yusupov Palace, once home to one of Russia’s wealthiest families. With so much to see and explore, the St.Petersburg City Tour provides an unforgettable experience for allwho take part in it. Day 6  ST. PETERSBURG    Morning guided visit to Peter & Paul Fortress, located in St. Petersburg, Russia, it is a significant historical site that played a crucial role in the country’s past. Built by Peter the Great in 1703, the fortress served as a formidable defense against enemy attacks and as a political prison for prominent figures. The centrepiece of the fortress is the Peter and Paul Cathedral, the burial place of many Russian emperors including Peter the Great himself. The fortress also houses the Museum of the History of St. Petersburg, which showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the city’s development over the centuries. In the afternoon continue tour with guided visit to Peterhof Palace, also known as the “Russian Versailles,” is a grand palace complex located just outside of St. Petersburg. Built by Peter the Great in the early 18th century, Peterhof boasts stunning gardens, intricate fountains, and opulent interiors that showcase the wealth and power of the Russian tsars. One of the highlights of Peterhof is the Grand Cascade, a cascading fountain with golden statues and ornate decorations that is truly a sight to behold. Visitors to Peterhof can also explore the various palaces and pavilions on the grounds, each with its own unique design and history. Day 7    ST. PETERSBURG     Morning guided visit to Pushkin Catherine Palace, a Rococo style palace located in the town of Tsar Selo (Pushkin), 30 kilometers south of St. Petersburg, Russia. It was once the summer palace of the Russian Tsars. In the afternoon continue tour with visit to Church of Spilled Blood. The Church of the Spilled Blood, officially known as theCathedral of the Resurrection of Christ, is a prominent landmarkin St. Petersburg, Russia. Built on the site where EmperorAlexander II was assassinated in 1881, the church stands out for its distinctive oniondomes and intricate mosaic decorations both inside and out. The church’s construction was funded by the royal family to honor Alexander II’s memory, and its design was inspired by traditionalRussian architecture from the 16th and 17th centuries. Today, theChurch of the Spilled Blood is a popular tourist attraction and asymbol of Russian resilience and faith in the face of tragedy. Day 8   ST. PETERSBURG    Morning guided visit to Hermitage Museum.  The vast collection of art and artifacts housed within its walls is truly impressive, spanning centuries and cultures. From the stunning architecture of the Winter Palace to the intricate detail of the Faberge eggs, every corner of the Hermitage exudes a sense of history and elegance Lunch and transfer to the airport for flight back home.

Experience the natural beauty and rich heritage of Kaliningrad with GEMTOUR. Day 1Begin your exploration of Kaliningard upon arrival. Embark on an insightful walking tour of the city. During city tour you will explore the Victory Square, The Cathedral of the 14th century where the world famous philosopher Emmanuel Kant was buried, the Museum of the World Ocean, which is one of the most innovative modern cultural institutions in Russia. Delve into the maritime history of Kaliningrad and explore fascinating exhibits and artifacts, including the world’s only preserved submarine B-413 located on the shores of the Baltic Sea. Day 2After breakfast in the hotel continue your tour with visiting Amber Museum. Discover the fascinating world of amber at this stunning museum, located in a former castle, showcasing around 14,000 exhibits. After lunch you will go to Svetlogorsk, where you will have a walking tour in the city center. Day 3After breakfast in the hotel you will visit the UNESCO-protected sand dunes Curonian Spit and enjoy the picturesque landscapes. This narrow sand strip is the unique nature reserve. Day 4Breakfast in the hotel. Check-out before 12pm. Transfer to airport/ railway station.

Day 01: MOSCOW. Arrival in Moscow, proceed immediately to a short orientation tour. Moscow is the capital of Russian Federation. The city was founded by Yury Dolgoruky in 1147. Nowadays Moscow is the most important political and business center of Russia and has a true “Russian” feel. Some people even call it a “big village”. Dinner and overnight at Marco Polo Day 02: MOSCOW. This lovely morning, sightseeing tour will take you to marvel at Red Square and see the colorful onion-domed St. Basils Cathedral. Then later to the walls of the Kremlin Fortress with cathedrals the highlight of the tour. This place plays a very significant part in Russian history. Listen and be amazed in the rich history of this country. After that we will explore the Metro Stations, which Stalin called “Palace for the People”. Day 03: MOSCOW After breakfast, proceed to a city tour with Lenin Hills a hill on the right bank of the Moscow river and one of the highest points in Moscow with an altitude up to 220m( 60-70 m above the river level).It gives a good panoramic view of the city. See the MGU – Moscow State University (formerly the tallest building in Europe). Poklonnaya Hill with War memorial – this memorial complex includes a museum (its displays are dedicated to the events of 1941-45), Conquerors’ Square adorned with the allegorical figure of the goddess of Victory ”Years of War” alley and the Orthodox Church of St. George decorated with huge bronze bas reliefs.  Proceed to See the magnificent building of Christ the Saviour Cathedral in Moscow which may be the largest Orthodox church in the world. it was rebuilt in 2000 after the original was demolished by Stalin. Day 04: MOSCOW- SERGIEV POSAD-MOSCOW Full-day guided excursion to Sergiev Possad. This town was named in honour of St. Sergius of Radonezh. It is the spiritual centre of Russian orthodoxy. Craft and production shops operate in the town where one can buy famous MATRYOSHKA. After Sergiv Possad Tour, we will head back to Moscow to visit visit Izhmailovo Market. Day 05: MOSCOW- ST.PETERSBURG After breakfast, transfer to train Station for 4hrs ride to St. Petersburg. Meet with guide, dinner and check in to St. Petersburg Hotel for overnight at Sokos Olympia. Day 06: ST. PETERSBURG Visit Hermitage, the state winter palace. It is the largest and most ornate building in the city. It houses Russia’s collections of famous sculptures and paintings like Madonna of Leonardo da Vinci and Rembrand’s – Return of the prodigal son. Visit Palace square and be amazed of the Alexander Column, the tallest Triumphal column in the world. Lunch then Proceed to Peter and Paul Fortress– the oldest monument of history and Architecture in St, Petersburg. It was built as a fortification during theRussian-Swedish war but it was never used as a fortress and its bastions were turned into political prison cells. Day 07:  ST. PETERSBURG After breakfast, on to Peterhof Palace or Petrodvorets. It’s an 18th century palace built under the order of Peter the Great to rival Versailles. The palace sits atop of a hill and overlooking the Gulf of Finland.  Peterhof Palace is originally known as the Popov farmstead and from 1944 as Petrodvorets (Peter’s Palace). It is truely a reminiscent of a sparkling diamond of unique beauty. After Lunch, proceed to Pushkin Palace and Park, the main summer residence of the Imperial family from the 18th century to the fall of monarchy in 1917. Enjoy Catherine’s Palace, an ornate Baroque building palace with a blue façade and gold onion domes. Admire the White Vestibule, the Amber Room, the Portrait Hall, the Crimson Pilaster Room and its park at Pushkin. Day 08: ST. PETERSBURG After breakfast, continuation of city tour which includes a visit to St. Isaac Cathedral, the city’s largest church. Be impressed of this five-domed cathedral towering the height of 101.5 meter, one of the world’s largest domed structures. Next worth visiting is the Church of the Spilled Blood and be amazed of the architecture of this church. Rest of the day is free for leisure or avail the optional river cruise. Day 09: ST. PETERSBURG  After breakfast, proceed to Kazan Cathedral and last minute shopping. Lunch then transfer to airport for flight back home.

Prepare to embrace unforgettable memories for marvelous Russia with GEMTOUR Day 1          MOSCOW – ST. PETERSBURG, Russia Arrive to St. Petersburg. St. Petersburg, the cultural soul of Russia, is a repository of priceless art, a home to poets, musicians and composers and a witness to the rise and fall of Imperial Russia, two shattering revolutions and a civil war. Dinner and stay at hotel Day 2         ST. PETERSBURG Enjoy a full day guided tour to Peter and Paul fortress, the oldest monument of history and architecture in St. Petersburg built as a fortification during the Russian-Swedish war but never used as a fortress with its bastions turned into political prison cells. Proceed to Pushkin Palace and park, the main summer residence of the Imperial family from the 18th century to the fall of monarchy in 1917. Enjoy Catherine’s Palace, an ornate Baroque building palace with a blue façade and gold onion domes. Admire the White Vestibule, the Amber Room, the Portrait Hall, the Crimson Pilaster Room and its park at Pushkin. See Pavlovsk Palace and park, one of the last summer palaces built by Russian tsars. The 1500-acre site, presented by Catherine the Great to her son Paul, future Tsar Paul1, became a charming Estate of the Royal family. After Dinner, watch the 7pm ballet at Mariinskiy Theater or River Cruise (Optional). Stay at hotel in St. Petersburg. Day 3        ST. PETERSBURG Admire the works of Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Rodin, Rembrandt at the Hermitage Museum, the Tsar’s former Winter Palace housing one of the finest art collections in the world. Admire Peter the Great’s Palace and its park in Petrodvorets. The palaces and parks with fountains were built in 18th century under the order of Peter the Great. Built to rival Versailles, the palace sits atop a hill overlooking the Gulf of Finland. Tour the Throne Room, the Portrait Room and the White Dining Room. Visit Yusapov Palace where the monk Rasputin was murdered. Then on to  Saint Isaac Cathedral, the city’s largest church and one of the world’s largest domed structures. Dinner at local restaurant and stay at hotel in St. Petersburg. Day 4       ST. PETERSBURG – MOSCOW – SUZDAL Take the flight from St. Petersburg to Moscow. Visit Sergiev Posad. After lunch, transfer north to Suzdal, part of the Golden Ring giving one a taste of rural Russia. Dinner and stayat hotel in Suzdal. Day 5        SUZDAL – VLADIMIR – MOSCOW Tour Suzdal, one of the oldest and best-preserved Russian towns with many splendid architectural monuments of different epochs. Visit Kremlin, Spaso-Efimievskiy Monastery, Convent of the Intercession and Rozhdestvenskiy Cathedral.  Take lunch at the ancient great town of Vladimir, to the south of Suzdal. Return to Moscow for dinner and stay at hotel in Moscow. Day 6           MOSCOW Enjoy a city tour with Lenin Hills at the right bank of the Moscow River and one of the highest points in Moscow. See the Moscow State University, formerly the tallest building in Europe. Visit Poklonnaya Hill and its war memorial. This complex includes a museum with its displays dedicated to the events of 1941-45, Conquerors’ Square adorned with the allegorical figure of the goddess of Victory, ”Years of War” alley and the Orthodox Church of St. George decorated with huge bronze bas reliefs. There is also synagogue and a mosque. Watch the world-famous Old Circus. Dinner and stay at hotel in Moscow. Day 7          MOSCOW Enjoy a guided tour of the Kremlin, a city within a city, with medieval towers, five cathedrals and palaces. Visit the Annunciation and Assumption Cathedrals in Kremlin’s Square, a testimony of the vibrant faith of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Annunciation Cathedral was decorated by the great icon painters and was intended to be the royal family’s private chapel.  The Assumption Cathedral is the oldest structure in the Square where Russian tsars were crowned, metropolitans and patriarchs were elected and important edicts read out.  Visit the treasure-filled Armory Museum which displays the lavish court life of Imperial Russia. It is famous for its collection of Old Imperial Russian regalia, thrones, jewelry, costumes, state gifts, arms, Faberge eggs, royal carriages, ball gowns, jewel-encrusted swords that are relics of the wealth and power that once belonged to the tsars. Marvel at the magnificence of the city seeing the enormous Red Square with the colorful onion-domed St. Basil’s Cathedral.  See Alexandrovskiy garden with the tomb of the Unknown soldiers, Catherine the Great Grotto, fountains and the Kremlin walls. Don’t miss a visit to the lavishly decorated metro stations that are unique to Russia. If time permits, visit Arbat street where the chance to shop for typical Russian crafts and gifts. Dinner and stay at hotel in Moscow. Day 8           MOSCOW Visit the Novodevichiy convent inside and Christ the Saviour Cathedral. Take flight back home

Day 1 Arrival in Moscow Departure to the hotel Day 2 Visit Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin – the Fortress of Splendor Experience the heart of Moscow as you stroll through the iconic Red Square, surrounded by landmarks such as St. Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s Mausoleum. Step inside the magnificent cathedrals within the Kremlin walls, including the breathtaking Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and the magnificent Church of the Archangels. Visit to the Cosmonaut Museum: A Journey to the Stars Uncover the amazing achievements of Russian space exploration, from Yuri Gagarin’s first manned mission to the groundbreaking work of the International Space Station. Get up close and personal with authentic spacesuits and spacecraft for a unique perspective on the challenges astronauts face on their cosmic adventures. Delve into the history of the Mir space station, a symbol of international cooperation and a testament to mankind’s extraordinary capabilities in space. Day 3 Excursion to Sergiev Posad. Troitse-Sergiev Monastery. Visit the Troits-Sergieva Lavra Monastery, the spiritual center of the Russian Orthodox Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with beautiful churches and holy relics. Indulge in the delicious cuisine of Sergiev Posad, savoring traditional Russian dishes such as borscht and dumplings. Lose yourself in the glamorous Old Arbat Street Arbat Old Street is Moscow’s oldest street, full of colorful stalls, street performers and charming cafes. Step back in time and immerse yourself in the romance of this iconic street. You’ll find souvenirs, antiques and fine art around every corner! Seek out street performers and talented musicians for unforgettable live shows. Savor a cup of coffee in one of the many picturesque cafes. Moscow Metro: an underground masterpiece Step into a world of glorious architecture as you enter Moscow’s metro system. Admire the ornate designs, intricate mosaics and breathtaking sculptures in the metro stations. Day 4 In the morning, go shopping at Outlet Belaya Dacha. Opened in August 2012, the Outlet Village Belaya Dacha is unique in its form and architecture. The Outlet was the first open-air shopping center of this caliber in Russia. Today, Outlet Village Belaya Dacha boasts some 180 single-brand and multi-brand stores, including world-famous brands such as Tommy Hilfiger, Furla, Coccinelle, Sandro, Hugo Boss, Pinko, Patrizia Pepe and many more. The shopping center is designed in the style of a European town. All stores are located in separate buildings on narrow side streets.  Day 5 After breakfast, photo stops at Red Square, Zarye, Cathedral of Christ the Savior, Vorobyovygory and other major sights. Transfer to the train station for the high-speed train to St. Petersburg. Arrival in St. Petersburg Day 6 After breakfast, visit the Catherine Palace, a Rococo style palace located in the town of Tsar Selo (Pushkin), 30 kilometers south of St. Petersburg, Russia. It was once the summer palace of the Russian Tsars. Catherine Palace is the historical and compositional center of the palace and park complex. Take a walk along Nevsky Prospekt. There are many sights and places of historical interest, as well as a promenade for Petersburgers and tourists to walk and buy souvenirs. There are also many stores, cafes and restaurants. Day 7 After breakfast, start your city sightseeing tour with photo stops on the way. You will see Nevsky Prospekt, the Admiralty, the Kazan Cathedral, the Church of the Savior Spilled with Blood, the Anichkov Bridge and other sights of St. Petersburg. Visit the Peter and Paul Fortress and Cathedral, symbols of St. Petersburg Visit the stunning Peter and Paul Cathedral, the final resting place of the Russian emperors, with its soaring spires. Climb the fortress walls for a panoramic view of the Neva River and the picturesque cityscape of St. Petersburg. Day 8 After breakfast visit the Hermitage: a treasure trove of art Visit one of the largest and most famous art museums in the world, housing over three million works of art, including masterpieces by Rembrandt, Michelangelo and Van Gogh. After lunch visit the Peterhof Gardens and the Grand Peterhof Palace – “Russia’s Versailles”. Stroll through the meticulously manicured lower gardens, dotted with flower beds and pavilions. The interior of the Grand Palace is adorned with priceless works of art and intricate designs, allowing you to step into the luxurious world of Russian royalty. Day 9 In the morning, proceed to Pulkovo Outlet Shopping Village, the first outlet complex of European level in St. Petersburg. Opened in October 2015, the shopping center has become one of the most popular shopping destinations in St. Petersburg: it has a pleasant atmosphere, world brand boutiques and attractive discounts.  Currently, the shopping center boasts more than 100 stores of well-known brands. Visitors have the opportunity to buy last season’s products from world-famous brands at discounts of 30% to 70% (up to 80% during seasonal sales) all year round. Day 10 In the morning take the high-speed train to Moscow. Transfer to the airport for your flight home

Experience the natural beauty and rich heritage of Kaliningrad with GEMTOUR. Day 1Begin your exploration of Kaliningard upon arrival. Embark on an insightful walking tour of the city. During city tour you will explore the Victory Square, The Cathedral of the 14th century where the world famous philosopher Emmanuel Kant was buried, the Museum of the World Ocean, which is one of the most innovative modern cultural institutions in Russia. Delve into the maritime history of Kaliningrad and explore fascinating exhibits and artifacts, including the world’s only preserved submarine B-413 located on the shores of the Baltic Sea. Day 2After breakfast in the hotel continue your tour with visiting Amber Museum. Discover the fascinating world of amber at this stunning museum, located in a former castle, showcasing around 14,000 exhibits. After lunch you will go to Svetlogorsk, where you will have a walking tour in the city center. Day 3After breakfast in the hotel you will visit the UNESCO-protected sand dunes Curonian Spit and enjoy the picturesque landscapes. This narrow sand strip is the unique nature reserve. Day 4Breakfast in the hotel. Check-out before 12pm. Transfer to airport/ railway station.