-Discover historic cities of the Ukraine: Lviv, Odessa & Kiev
-Spend time in little-visited but fascinating Moldova
-Enjoy the famous Black Sea coastline of the Crimea

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. We continue to Yalta where, 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; city tour. 4 Drive Chernivsti; city tour. 5 Drive Chisinau, Moldova. 6 Tour Chisinau; visit Cricova wine cellars (optional). 7 Drive Odessa; city tour. 8 Drive to Yalta. 9 Orientation tour; boat trip on Black Sea. 10 Optional excursion Vorontsov Palace and Livadia. 11 Visit Ay Petri Plateau, Bakhchisarai Palace and Mosque, and Chufut-Kale cave town. 12 Drive Sevastopol, guided tour; overnight train Kiev. 13 Guided tour of Kiev. 14 Visit Lavra Monastery complex; optional Wooden Architecture Museum excursion. 15 End Kiev.

Accommodation: 13nts hotel, 1nt sleeper train - all hotels graded standard - sleeper train berths are in standard class compartments shared by 2 people; 13 breakfasts included.
Transport: Bus/Train/On foot/Boat.
Comment: A fascinating cultural journey through the historical and cultural landscapes of Ukraine and Moldova; suitable for anyone in reasonable health.
Group: Approx. 12 to 16.
Staff: Explore Tour Leader plus driver(s) and some local guides.
Trip Reference: RKC