This sample 10 day (9 nights) itinerary covers St Petersburg, Moscow, and Kazan. It's a great way to see some of the highlights of Russia, one of the most unique countries in the world. Starting out in the old seat of the Tsars, St Petersburg, you'll marvel at the art and architecture. Then moving on to the modern capital Moscow where the Soviet past collides with the capitalist present. The last stop is the cultural crossroads city of Kazan, for an entirely different take on the country. Only part of Russia since the 16th century and nowadays the capital of the semi-autonomous Tatarstan region, Kazan is home to the Temple of All Religions. You'll enjoy a variety of settings during your trip, with local guides to show you the best of each destination along the way. All of our tours are customized, and this is just a sample meant to give an idea of what our trips are like, and the opportunities our destinations provide.
One of our team members in the region will be available to you leading up to and during your trip to answer any questions and arrange local services. You will receive access to your Guest Page, with its information on the best these destinations have to offer, including things to see and do, and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Upon arrival, we will provide you with a local cell phone that you can use to reach your local JayWay contact throughout your trip. In all of our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 3-5 star accommodation options, including boutique hotels, charming B&Bs, and spacious apartments. With our firsthand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with local ambience.
4 Nights in St. Petersburg
4 Nights in St. Petersburg
4 Nights in St. Petersburg
Russia’s second largest and westernmost city, St. Petersburg possesses an imperial splendor that is second-to-none. The city has changed names numerous times over the years, from Petrograd to Leningrad and now St. Petersburg, a fact that attests to its unique complexity and diversity. With a recently redeveloped waterfront and a completely revamped historical district as well as a variety of world-class restaurants and art galleries, this truly is a renaissance city. Long known for its hedonism, St. Petersburg today is a well-rounded and welcoming tourist destination, especially for those looking to do something a little different. Built by Peter the Great, St. Petersburg was designed to dazzle. Much of the architecture here is stunning, and you don’t have to go far to find something beautiful to look at, from the Hermitage Museum to the grand Peterhof Summer Palace. This is also a city of history and culture, with incredible museums and performance halls such as the Mariinsky Theatre and the Shostakovich Philharmonia, where you can enjoy some of the finest ballet and classical music in the world. American citizens need a visa to travel to St. Petersburg, and we can assist with all the paperwork, through there may be an additional fee on top of Russia’s visa fees.
Russia’s second largest and westernmost city, St. Petersburg possesses an imperial splendor that is second-to-none. The city has changed names numerous times over the years, from Petrograd to Leningrad and now St. Petersburg, a fact that attests to its unique complexity and diversity. With a recently redeveloped waterfront and a completely revamped historical district as well as a variety of world-class restaurants and art galleries, this truly is a renaissance city. Long known for its hedonism, St. Petersburg today is a well-rounded and welcoming tourist destination, especially for those looking to do something a little different. Built by Peter the Great, St. Petersburg was designed to dazzle. Much of the architecture here is stunning, and you don’t have to go far to find something beautiful to look at, from the Hermitage Museum to the grand Peterhof Summer Palace. This is also a city of history and culture, with incredible museums and performance halls such as the Mariinsky Theatre and the Shostakovich Philharmonia, where you can enjoy some of the finest ballet and classical music in the world. American citizens need a visa to travel to St. Petersburg, and we can assist with all the paperwork, through there may be an additional fee on top of Russia’s visa fees.
Day 1
Day 1 - Arrival in St. Petersburg
You Made It! Now What?
If you've just arrived, we recommend walk around the city, and taking in its many canals and beautiful architecture. Peter the Great decreed that every stonemason, and much of the artisans, in his empire take part in the construction of this grand showcase, and it shows. If you're visiting during the summer months, enjoy the legendary White Nights, when the sun barely dips below the horizon. Why don't you finish the night on one of the rooftop bars with stunning views and a delicious cocktail?
Day 2
Day 2 - Your First Full Day in St. Petersburg
Hello St. Petersburg Private Tour
On this introductory tour of St. Petersburg you'll have the comfort and convenience of both walking and driving, and the experience and knowledge of an expert local guide. During the tour of the former capital of the Russian empire you will enjoy unforgettable sites including Arts Square, which is formed by three museums and four theatres, Palace Square and the baroque Winter Palace, as well as the elegant Spit of Vasilievsky Island. You'll also drive along the famous Nevsky Prospect. You will appreciate the tranquility of numerous rivers and canals with their beautiful bridges, the cupolas of Orthodox churches and cathedrals. At the end of the tour you'll be driven back to your accommodation. Additional visits to St. Peter and Paul Fortress, St. Isaac's Cathedral and Church of the Savior on the Spilled Blood can be added to this tour and booked for the additional cost. Please ask for more details about this in case of interest.
Memorable Museums
No trip to St. Petersburg is complete without visiting its world-famous museums. Whether you're a museum fan or not, here are two must-sees beyond the Hermitage. Russia's oldest museum, the Kunstkamera has collected priceless items from around the world since its foundation by Peter the Great. Home to over 2 million ethnographic and archaeological items, there are plenty of unusual finds here, such as Frederik Ruysch's cabinet of anatomical curiosities, imported by Peter from Amsterdam. Don't forget the Faberge Museum, housing more than 4,000 of these masterful eggs, many of which belonged to Europe's ruling families. Visit these museums on your own, or with help from our knowledgable guides.
Day 3
Day 3 - Your Second Full Day in St. Petersburg
Hermitage Museum Private Tour: General building
The Hermitage is considered to be one of the most important museums of the world. Its numerous and valuable collection occupies 5 historic buildings including the Winter Palace. Magnificent interiors treasure the priceless works of art of all times and from all parts of the world. The collection that was started by Empress Catherine II in 1764 now numbers more than 3 million objects. Objects that date back to various periods from prehistoric times to nowadays are exhibited in 400 rooms. It would take 15 years to see the whole collection even if we would go to the museum every day for 8 hours and stay only for one minute at every object.
Sails the City's Channels and Canals
Day 4
Day 4 - Your Third Full Day in St. Petersburg
Pushkin and Peterhof's Lower Park Private Tour
On this fascinating 7-hour tour you'll have an expert local guide to show you around the incredible sites of Pushkin and Peterhof's Lower Park. You won't be disappointed as these are two of the most gorgeous attractions in the city. The opulent past will come alive for you as your guide tells you all about the history and significance of the palaces and monuments you see. This is certain to be an unforgettable part of your holiday.
Folk Show "Feel Yourself Russian"
Feel yourself Russian show! A unique tourist attraction that allows you to feel the history and soul of Russia in one night! The spectacular colorful and bright folk show takes place on the stage of one of St. Petersburg palaces. On the front stairs of the palace you will meet an ensemble of historical and everyday dance "Reverence." Beauties in crinolines and the elegant gentleman to the accompaniment of a string quartet "Classic" will make you forget that at the moment is the beginning of the XXI century. During 2 hours several folk companies will entertain you with Russian and Cossack songs and dances. Great mood is guaranteed. During the intermission glass of sparkling wine or short of vodka and some snacks will be offered.
Day 5
Day 5 - Traveling to Moscow by Train
Today you'll leave St Petersburg and head off to the Russian capital. It's just four hours by high speed train and we'll book standard class tickets on that service, as well as arrange for a driver to take you to the train station with plenty of time to catch your departing train. It is possible to upgrade to a higher class tickets for an extra charge.
3 Nights in Moscow
3 Nights in Moscow
3 Nights in Moscow
Moscow has been the capital of Russia for nearly 1,000 years. It's an iconic, global city that has played a central role in the development of Russia and the world. For many, the sight of the Kremlin complex in the center of Moscow is still loaded with symbolism and history. The most interesting tourist attractions are located on the northern bank of the Moskva River, which bends its way through the city. The Soviet past collides with the capitalist present everywhere in Russia, but nowhere is this contrast more visible than in Moscow, the upbeat, vibrant and sometimes wearisome heart of the country. Vladimir Ilich Lenin’s Mausoleum remains intact, as do many dreary five-story apartment buildings from the era of Nikita Khrushchev’s rule, which lasted from the mid-1950s to the mid-1960s. But glitzy automobiles and Western-style supermarkets, casinos, and nightclubs are equally visible. Many Orthodox churches, as well as some synagogues and mosques, have been restored, while Moscow’s best theaters have reclaimed leadership in the dramatic arts, and traditional markets have been revived and expanded. These markets, which under the Soviets were known as kolkhoz (collective-farm) markets and sold mainly crafts and produce, are now more sophisticated retail establishments.
Moscow has been the capital of Russia for nearly 1,000 years. It's an iconic, global city that has played a central role in the development of Russia and the world. For many, the sight of the Kremlin complex in the center of Moscow is still loaded with symbolism and history. The most interesting tourist attractions are located on the northern bank of the Moskva River, which bends its way through the city. The Soviet past collides with the capitalist present everywhere in Russia, but nowhere is this contrast more visible than in Moscow, the upbeat, vibrant and sometimes wearisome heart of the country. Vladimir Ilich Lenin’s Mausoleum remains intact, as do many dreary five-story apartment buildings from the era of Nikita Khrushchev’s rule, which lasted from the mid-1950s to the mid-1960s. But glitzy automobiles and Western-style supermarkets, casinos, and nightclubs are equally visible. Many Orthodox churches, as well as some synagogues and mosques, have been restored, while Moscow’s best theaters have reclaimed leadership in the dramatic arts, and traditional markets have been revived and expanded. These markets, which under the Soviets were known as kolkhoz (collective-farm) markets and sold mainly crafts and produce, are now more sophisticated retail establishments.
Day 5
Day 5 - Arrival in Moscow
Welcome to Moscow! We will arrange for a driver to meet you upon your arrival at the train station and transfer you to your hotel in the center of the city.
Explore Zaryadye Park
Zaryadye is a new park built in the historic center of the city, a stone’s throw away from the Kremlin and Red Square. But Zaryadye is more than just a park, as it is an altogether new type of public space, created by an international team of architects, engineers, landscape designers, and other experts. Here the concepts of nature and technology, education and entertainment, and history and modernity are united and complement each other. The river overlook is a definitely a highlight, as it hangs high above the park's river, providing one of the best views of the Kremlin. It also has an underground museum, ice cave, nature center, concert hall, and plenty of restaurants.
Day 6
Day 6 - Your First Full Day in Moscow
Moscow Private Driving Tour
Moscow is a very spread-out city and many sights are not in a walking distance from each other. This tour is an opportunity to see some of the most interesting places in Moscow. You'll walk around Red Square, drive around the historic center and modern Moscow and see the spectacular panoramic view from the city's highest hill.
Kremlin and its Cathedrals Private Tour
This stronghold is situated on a hill that is 40 meters high. Originally in the 12th century the Kremlin was made of wood and rebuilt in stone much later. It is surrounded with a 2 km wall with 20 beautiful towers. The presidential residence is situated here. The oldest square in Moscow which is called the Cathedral Square is also situated in the Kremlin. The Cathedral of the Assumption, Ivan the Great Bell Tower, the Cathedral of Archangel Michael, the Cathedral of the Annunciation and the Church of Twelve Apostles surround this beautiful square. We will visit one of these cathedrals to learn more about the history of the country and admire masterpieces of Russian icon painters. Later on our walk along the Kremlin grounds we will see the famous Tsar Bell, a huge bell that weighs 200 tons and the largest cannon in the world – the Tsar Cannon that weighs 40 tons.
Day 7
Day 7 - Your Second Full Day in Moscow
The Historic Golden Ring
Explore the Golden Ring, a concentration of some of Medieval Russia's most important towns. These "open-air museums" are full of photogenic monasteries, churches, and fortresses, and include some of the country's most holy and storied places. If you'd like to focus on the most holy spot of all, we offer a private tour of Sergiev Posad, and its famed monastery, the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius. Alternatively, you can visit the most beautiful part of the Ring, the towns of Vladimir and Suzdal.
Sergiev Posad Private Tour
The sprawling Trinity Lavra in Sergiev Posad is a part of the legendary Golden Ring, and a unique UNESCO-listed architectural masterpiece. The center of Russian Orthodoxy, this is the Russian Vatican, and a central part of Russian history and culture. Your guide will take you from your accommodations to the train station by subway, and naturally return you to your hotel at the end of the trip.
Private Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal
When you get outside Russia's largest cities, there are many smaller destinations with a wealth of historic and cultural interest. Vladimir and Suzdal are at the top of this list. You'll see both on this special full-day tour. Your guide will pick you up from your accommodation and drive you to these unique towns, where you'll enjoy informative walking tours of the most interesting buildings and monuments. At the end of the trip you'll be driven back to your accommodation in Moscow.
Indulge Your Senses at the Bolshoi Theatre
The Bolshoi Theatre is the oldest theatre in Moscow and one of the most famous theatres in the world. It is beautiful inside and out, so we highly recommend visiting it while you're in the city. For genuine lovers of opera and ballet, it's worth doing some research before choosing the performance you wish to attend, as quality can be variable. For the rest of us, the breathtaking beauty of the setting, the idiosyncrasies of Russian theatre-going and the historic atmosphere should be more than enough to guarantee a truly memorable evening out. It's possible to book tickets online, but it's considerably more expensive than going to the box office.
Day 8
Day 8 - Traveling to Kazan by Airplane
Today you're leaving Moscow as you're off to Kazan. We'll arrange for a driver to take you to the airport in plenty of time for your departing flight. We've included economy one-way tickets to Kazan on a direct flight in your package price.
2 Nights in Kazan
2 Nights in Kazan
2 Nights in Kazan
Russia's official "Third Capital," Kazan is a cosmopolitan mix of cultures. This is symbolized by the Temple of All Religions, an idiosyncratic temple that combines various types of sacred architecture and 16 world religions. One of the Golden Horde's great cities, Kazan only became Russian in the 16th century, when it was conquered by Ivan the Terrible. The capital of the semi-autonomous Republic of Tatarstan, Kazan's population is evenly split between ethnic Russians, and Tatars, the descendants of Genghis Khan's army, who now speak a language related to Turkish and practice Islam. This heritage is clear in the city's grand churches and mosques, many located in and around the Kazan Kremlin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by Ivan the Great to defend his conquest, the charming Kremlin is still surrounded by snow-white walls and towers, and encompasses colorful buildings that include Tatarstan's presidential palace, a cathedral and monastery, and a towering mosque. Russia's third most prosperous city, Kazan is the country's official sports capital, hosting major international athletic championships nearly every year. Here you can find a new take on Russia's past, and a hopeful vision of its future.
Russia's official "Third Capital," Kazan is a cosmopolitan mix of cultures. This is symbolized by the Temple of All Religions, an idiosyncratic temple that combines various types of sacred architecture and 16 world religions. One of the Golden Horde's great cities, Kazan only became Russian in the 16th century, when it was conquered by Ivan the Terrible. The capital of the semi-autonomous Republic of Tatarstan, Kazan's population is evenly split between ethnic Russians, and Tatars, the descendants of Genghis Khan's army, who now speak a language related to Turkish and practice Islam. This heritage is clear in the city's grand churches and mosques, many located in and around the Kazan Kremlin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by Ivan the Great to defend his conquest, the charming Kremlin is still surrounded by snow-white walls and towers, and encompasses colorful buildings that include Tatarstan's presidential palace, a cathedral and monastery, and a towering mosque. Russia's third most prosperous city, Kazan is the country's official sports capital, hosting major international athletic championships nearly every year. Here you can find a new take on Russia's past, and a hopeful vision of its future.
Day 8
Day 8 - Arrival in Kazan
Welcome to Kazan! A driver will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall ready to take you to your hotel in the center of the city. Please note that some drivers in Kazan don't speak great English but they will have clear instructions on where to take you. You will meet your guide on the first tour. If you'd like to arrange for the English speaking guide to pick you up together with the driver, please let us know and we can arrange this for extra fee.
Walk and Dine
Day 9
Day 9 - Your First Full Day in Kazan
Colorful Heritage
This excursion begins with your tour guide escorting you from your hotel to Kazan's historical center, where you'll get to know the city's main landmarks. Your guide will lead you to Peter and Paul’s Cathedral, to marvel at its distinctive Naryshkin Baroque design. You’ll walk around the Liberty Square - Kazan's main square - and see the Opera and Ballet Theater. Finally, you'll get to admire awe-inspiring views of Kazan Kremlin and visit the sights inside.
The Pearls of Kazan
Eager to get out of the city and explore more of the surrounding region? We’ve got the perfect spots for you to choose from. Discover Sviyazhsk, one of Tatarstan's historic and cultural gems, or the Raifsky Bogoroditsky Monastery (Raifa Monastery of the Mother of God), on the shores of a beautiful lake and surrounded by the thick woods of a national park. If you have more time, a must-see is the famous UNESCO-listed Bolgar historical complex, once the capital of Volga Bulgaria, the medieval precursor to today's Tatarstan, and the ancient religious center for Tatars. Choose your favorites and enjoy them on your own, or get the most of your day trip by booking any of the private tours with us.
Private Tour of Sviyazhsk Island
Explore Tatarstan's historic and cultural gem -Sviyazhsk Island. You will get to know the history of the scenic island town, see the UNESCO-listed Assumption Cathedral and Monastery, enjoy stunning views of the Volga River and en route to this charming island, you will have the chance to stop by Lake Lebyazhie. Your tour will be led by a professional local guide and will include all entrance fees and transportation.
Raifsky Monastery and Temple of All Religions Private Tour
Get to know the history of one of Russia's large monasteries, located in a lush lakeside forest, while visiting its main churches. On your way back to Kazan, you'll visit the exterior of a unique piece of sacred architecture, the Temple of All Religions, also known as the Universal Temple, which unites 16 different religions, some of which are no longer practiced!
Private Day Trip to Ancient Bolgar via Ferry
Ride a high-speed ferry to the ruins of Bolgar, the UNECO-listed ancient capital of the tatars. You'll visit the Museum of Bolgar Civilization, St. Nikolay Church, Black Chamber, and White Mosque (made from white Italian marble), and explore the ruins of the Cathedral Mosque, with its Great Minaret, and Khan's Tomb.
Day 10
Day 10 - Departure Day
Today, a driver will pick you up at your accommodations and bring you to Kazan's airport for your departing flight.
Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes.
Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.
St. Petersburg
Moscow
Kazan
The package excludes:
- Flights to and from Europe.
- Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
- Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
- Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
- Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website
A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.
A Travel Advisor who speaks your language
We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation
Your trip is customized for you by an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions
We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day
Your Europe-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.On-trip Concierge Service to smooth out any bumps in the road
Our local staff are at your service throughout your journey via the local prepaid cellphone which we provide.Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out
Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.Glowing Reviews from Our Guests
5 / 5
Average of our Guest's Ratings of vacation packages including these destinations
Shelby & Sharon
New Jersey
JayWay Travel is the most reliable travel service that I have used. You clearly research the hotels that you offer, and your local guides are among the best that I have utilized throughout Europe. The local support received is reliable, and extremely responsive to any issue that arises.
JayWay Travel is the most reliable travel service that I have used. You clearly research the hotels that you offer, and your local guides are among the best that I have utilized throughout Europe. The local support received is reliable, and extremely responsive to any issue that arises.
Visited : Russia, Finland
Itinerary : Moscow, St. Petersburg, Helsinki
Rating :
Visited : Russia, Finland
Itinerary : Moscow, St. Petersburg, Helsinki
Rating :
Choose the month of travel, how many travelers and what star level accommodation you'd like to stay in, then get an instant price estimate.
Once you’ve done that you can request a tailor-made itinerary based on this by entering just a few more details.
Thank you!
Thank you for your interest in taking a trip based on this itinerary. One of our expert travel advisors will be in touch soon to start tailoring it precisely to your preferences.
Ooops!?
Something went wrong at our end, please try again in a moment.