On this innovative itinerary we combine travels in Ukraine with a visit to the often forgotten country of Moldova. Starting with an exploration of Ukraine's most elegant city, Lviv, we travel by bus and train, to its energetic capital, Kiev. En route we take in both city and rural sights; waterfalls, caves, palaces and monasteries. We also take a boat trip on the Black Sea and enjoy some easy walks.

Lviv & Moldova
We begin with a full day in Lviv, surely one of Europe's most elegant cities, allowing time to explore its old market square, ancient streets, castle and the Old Rus quarter. After discovering the delights of off-beat Ukraine in Ternopol and Chernivsti, we cross into one of the smallest and least visited countries in Europe, Moldova; where we encounter a warm welcome and excellent wine!

Odessa & the Crimea
A short bus journey brings us to Odessa, where we explore its many historic buildings and can visit the Catacombs, used by resistance fighters during World War II. Then it's on by train to Yalta. As well as learning about the world-shaping history of this famous town, we shall take a boat trip on the Black Sea, visit the Khan's Palace at Bakhchisarai and see "The Valley of Death", scene of the doomed charge of the Light Brigade.

Sevastopol & Kiev
Before the overnight sleeper train to Kiev, we take time to explore the sights of Sevastopol, including the harbour and the town's historic painting "The Defence of Sevastopol". Arriving at our journey's end in Ukraine's capital, Kiev, we have a guided tour of the many sights of the city, including the extensive "Lavra" Monastery, Museums and Caves, St Sofia Cathedral and browse the many art stalls along Andreyersky Street.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Join Lviv. 2 Walking tour of Lviv. 3 Drive Ternopol; PM city tour. 4 Drive Chernivsti; PM city tour. 5 Drive Chisinau, Moldova. 6 Morning tour Chisinau; PM visit Cricova wine cellars (optional). 7 Drive Odessa; city tour. 8 Optional Catacombs visit; overnight train Simferopol. 9 To Yalta; boat trip on Black Sea. 10 Optional excursion Vorontsov Palace and Livadia. 11 Included day trip Ay Petri Plateau, Bakhchisarai State Historical and Cultural Reserve, Khan's Palace, cave monastery and Chufut-Kale cave town. 12 Morning drive Sevastopol and guided tour; overnight train Kiev. 13 Guided tour of Kiev. 14 Visit Lavra Monastery complex; optional Wooden Architecture Museum excursion. 15 End Kiev.

Accommodation: 12nts hotel, 2nts standard class sleeper train; 12 breakfasts included.
Transport: Train (standard class)/Bus/On foot/Black Sea Cruiser.
Comment: A fascinating journey through the historical and cultural landscapes of Ukraine and Moldova. Train journeys in Ukraine can be slow, though this allows time to absorb the scenery and relax.
Group: Approx. 12 to 16.
Staff: Explore Tour Leader plus driver(s) and some local guides.
Trip Reference: RKC