-Spend time in two capitals - Tallinn & Moscow
-Uncover the fascinating history of the 'Golden Ring's' ancient towns
-Soak up the architectural splendours of St Petersburg
Old Tallinn & Moscow
We start in Estonia's capital Tallinn and take a walk through the medieval Old Town. We then head for Moscow to wander through the cavernous red-walled Kremlin with its incredible complex of palaces, cathedrals and churches. Outside is the vast space of Red Square and the multi-coloured onion-domes of St Basil's, where Ivan the Terrible once worshipped.
"Golden Ring" & St Petersburg
Our loop around the old cities known as the Zolotoye Koltso, or "Golden Ring", begins in Moscow. Each one of these ancient towns is hauntingly beautiful - Sergiev Posad, where golden domes are silhouetted against the crisp blue sky; Russia's former capital city, Vladimir and its Golden Gates (1164AD); Suzdal, on the Kamenka River with a wealth of medieval buildings. We also see the Monastery of the Transfiguration in Yaroslavl. Arriving in St Petersburg, we've three full days to admire the architectural opulence and treasures of this wonderful city including the Hermitage, Museum of Art and also the sumptuous Great Palace of Catherine in nearby Pushkin.
Itinerary:
Day 1 Join Tallinn (Estonia). 2 Walking tour of old town; overnight train to Moscow. 3 & 4 In Moscow, city tour; visit Kremlin. 5 Drive via Sergiev Posad (Zagorsk) to Vladimir. 6 Visit Suzdal; drive to Yaroslavl. 7 In Yaroslavl; sightseeing then overnight train to St Petersburg. 8 Arrive St Petersburg; city tour. 9 In St Petersburg; visit Pushkin, optional trip to Yusupov Palace. 10 Visit Hermitage; bus to Tallinn (Estonia). 11 Fly London.
Accommodation: 8nts hotel, 2nts sleeper train - hotels graded standard - sleeper train berths are in 2nd class lockable compartments for 4 with all bedding provided; 8 breakfasts included.
Transport: Bus/Train/Motor Boat/Trams/.
Comment: A varied cultural tour, which provides an unforgettable glimpse into the great artistic achievements of Old Russia. Suitable for anyone in reasonable health.
Group: Approx. 15 to 20.
Staff: Explore Tour Leader plus driver(s) and some local guides/interpreters.
Trip Reference: GR
