European river cruise

Travelmarvel - Helsinki and Treasures of Russia

15 Day Helsinki and Treasures of Russia

Helsinki and Treasures of Russia

Days: 15

From: Helsinki to Moscow

Countries Visited: Russia

Code: eutcsmh15

Code_ERC: eutcsmh15

( Brochure Price: $ 8,195 pp )

Our Price: $7,785 pp

Itinerary


1. Arrive Helsinki
Fly into Helsinki today, Finland’s vibrant capital. Situated on a picturesque archipelago, the coastal city of Helsinki offers an enchanting combination of natural, cultural and historical attractions. On arrival, check in to your hotel.

2. Helsinki
Join your local guide for a tour of Helsinki, where the heart of the city is its spectacular harbour. Then, should you choose, enjoy the rest of the day on board your private Hop-On Hop-Off coach, exploring the city at leisure. This evening dine on delicious Finnish specialties at a local restaurant.

3. Helsinki
Today, enjoy a day at leisure in Helsinki. Or perhaps set off on a trip to Porvoo, one of the six medieval towns in Finland.

4. Helsinki, St Petersburg, Embark Ship
Transfer to the station for your journey to Russia aboard the high-speed Allegro train bound for St Petersburg. Traverse the Finnish countryside before entering Russia. For your convenience, all visa and customs controls are carried out during the journey. Arrive in opulent St Petersburg and transfer to your river ship. With the rest of the day at leisure, this evening, enjoy a glass of sparkling wine at a Welcome Reception on board.

5. St Petersburg, City Tour
This morning enjoy a tour of spectacular St Petersburg. Visit Peter and Paul Fortress, and the St Nicholas Cathedral of the Epiphany. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore this colourful city on your own terms.

6. St Petersburg, Hermitage Museum
Founded by Tsar Peter the Great, St Petersburg boasts a network of canals and baroque buildings which give the city a distinctive European flavour. Be prepared to be dazzled today as you visit the State Hermitage to explore one of the most impressive museums in the world. Enjoy the freedom to have lunch where you please.

7. St Petersburg, Peterhof Park and Palace
Explore Peterhof Park and Palace before some time at leisure in St Petersburg. This evening, enjoy a special Captain’s Welcome Reception as you set sail.

8. Mandrogi
Today, cruise down the Neva River before arriving in Mandrogi, a tiny island village that is a living museum. Wander through the quirky collection of old wooden houses. Then see the famous Vodka Museum. Enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch and be sure to meander through the curious artisan shops filled with beautiful handmade gifts. Afterwards, re-board your ship and set sail along the peaceful Svir River.

9. Kizhi Island
Absorb the picturesque Russian countryside as you cruise towards the waters of Lake Onega, Europe’s second-largest lake. Then, watch in awe as you approach the spellbinding sight of Kizhi Island.

10. Goritsy
Today, cruise across the ethereal White Lake and along the Volga-Baltic Waterway, which connects the Baltic and Caspian seas. Arrive in Goritsy, and enjoy a tour to one of the largest medieval abbeys in Russia, the Monastery of St Cyril. Today the monastery remains an important part of Russia’s spiritual history, and features an intriguing collection of ancient artefacts.

11. Yaroslavl
Discover Yaroslavl, one of Russia’s oldest cities on a guided tour. Explore the World Heritage-listed city centre, adorned with classical architecture and golden-domed churches and visit a fortified 12th-century monastery.

12. Uglich
Watch rural life unfold along the river banks as your ship cruises to Uglich. Disembark for a guided tour to see the former Kremlin of Uglich and visit the colourful Church of St Demetrios on the Blood. This afternoon, set sail along the Volga River towards Moscow, Russia’s capital.

13. Moscow
Cruise into Moscow and explore some of the city’s historic landmarks, including the Kremlin. Tonight, perhaps explore Moscow by Night.

14. Moscow
Take a guided tour of Moscow and head to Red Square to see the iconic St Basil’s Cathedral. This evening enjoy a Farewell Dinner and vodka tasting.

15. Disembark Ship, Depart Moscow
Disembark and be transferred to the airport for your onward flight.

Cruise Enquiry

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Cruise Highlights

Three nights in spectacular Helsinki. 11 nights exploring Russia’s waterways on the premium river ship, the MS Rossia. Services of a Cruise Director, Tour Director and local guides. Daily bottled water, tea and coffee, as well as soft drink, beer and wine during dinner on your cruise. 36 meals – 14 breakfasts, 10 lunches and 12 dinners. Explore eight towns, villages and cities. Transfers, port charges and tipping.