Two Capitals of Russia and the Golden Ring - 10 Days
This trip will particularly appeal to schools interested in Russian history and religion. In one action-packed week we offer you the chance to see all the major treasures of fascinating Moscow and beautiful St. Petersburg, together with the most beautiful towns of the Golden Ring. This has long been the most popular tourist route through provincial Russia.
The Golden Ring is the name given to the chain of ancient towns to the north and east of Moscow. The history of the Golden Ring towns goes back over a thousand years. They comprise a collection of architectural masterpieces, set in the charming landscape of central Russia. Sergeev Posad is the former religious capital of Russia, with exquisitely restored architecture; Vladimir is one of the cities that played a major role in the emergence of the Russian state in the 10 – 11th centuries. The Golden Ring is also an opportunity to get to know the real life of the Russian provinces, unhurried and calm, just as it was hundreds of years ago, and as it is described in classical literature and history..
Have an amazing experience, and gain a unique insight into a foreign culture, history, religion and traditions!
ITINERARY
Day 1 - Moscow
Arrival in Moscow. Transfer to the hotel. After registration (if you still have energy after your flight) have your first glimpse of the Russian capital.
Day 2 - Moscow
After breakfast in the hotel, a bus tour around the city. During the city tour you will see all the major sights, including the Red Square, the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, the Novodevichiy Convent, Tverskaya Street, Bulvarnoye Koltso (Boulevard Ring), and other attractions. Our tour guide takes you to the “Sparrow Hills” with an observation platform which provides a fantastic panoramic view of Moscow – this ancient city with the rich history and culture.
After lunch we continue our discovery of Moscow - a city of great Russian history and culture. Today we will visit the heart of Moscow - the Kremlin - former residence of Tsars and Russian Orthodox Patriarchs. Nowadays the residence of the President of the Russian Federation is situated in the Kremlin grounds. You’ll visit its uniquely beautiful Orthodox cathedrals, see the famous Tsar Cannon, one of the largest cannons ever made and never tested in battle; the Tsar Bell, the largest in the world, weighting 15 times as much as London’s Big Ben! While some of you will enjoy the beautiful St. Basils cathedral, others might be more interested in the famous Red Square, where all military parades take place. If you have time and energy left you could queue for the world-famous Lenin Mausoleum: a rare chance to see for yourself one of the few embalmed bodies in the world. It’s estimated that more than 10 million people have visited Lenin's tomb since it went on display in 1924. The preservation and public display of Lenin's body inspired the creation of Mao’s Mausoleum and similars one for Ho Chi Minhand Kim Il Sung.
In the afternoon, take a stroll along Arbat Street, famous for its souvenirs, and browse among the shops for gifts for your friends and family. Here you can buy the famous Russian fur hats (“shapkas”). Transfer to your hotel.
Day 3 - Moscow
After a busy few days, with a full cultural and historical program, we take it easy today and have fun Russian style! We will go to the Kremlin in Izmailovo settlement (part of Moscow), where we’ll be met by a real Russian Tsar and Tsaritsa, and welcomed in the traditional Russian way,with bread and salt. For those who can present their ID, a shot of vodka is also on the menu! After a short introduction we invite you to take part in various activities, depending on your age and interests, as well as the time of year: folk games such as khoduli walking, rope pulling, treasure hunt, troika ride… After this action-packed morning, relax and browse among the stalls of nearby Izmalovo flea market, a treasure trove of old and new. All the usual souvenirs are on sale, including Soviet memorabilia and matrioshka dolls, as well as antique silver and jewelry, samovars, icons…
After lunch we will have a short introduction to the famous Moscow underground visiting several stations. The legendary Moscow Metro – fast and efficient way to go around. It is one of the oldest underground systems in the world, and the second busiest. The first stations were opened in 1935, although the first construction plans date back to the Russian Empire, when the Tsarist administration, impressed by their visits to other European capitals such as London, Berlin and Paris, thought to create a fast rail service that would serve Moscow and Saint Petersburg. Built at the height of the Soviet era, it represents Soviet Realism at its best:monumental mosaics and stunning frescos, symbolising the power and strength of the USSR.
Then we invite you to visit a formerly secret location, Taganskiy, created out of a Soviet era secret signalling center. After a rapid 65-meter descent by lift, you’ll discover one of the USSR’s top-secret military facilities , the Taganskiy Secured Command Post (SCP) . Construction of the Taganskiy SCP started in 1951. 5 years later in 1956, construction of an enormous underground site with over 7000 square meters was approved by the authorities. The USSR National Security Department took this site under its strict control, to provide round-the-clock communication for the state leadership in case of nuclear attack. Now the Taganskiy SCP is merely a monument to the might of the former Soviet Union. The ultimate goal of the reconstruction of the Taganskiy SCP is as a reminder of the history of the confrontation between the two superpowers and to prevent any future nuclear conflict. Optional: interactive game in this secret military location (available upon request).
In the evening you will enjoy a performance at the world-famous Moscow State Circus which was initially founded in London by English entrepreneur Philip Astley who was invited by Katherine the Great to introduce this performance entertainment in Russia!
Day 4. - Golden Ring
After breakfast in the hotel you start to explore provincial Russia, beginning with Sergiev Posad, the heart of the Russian Orthodox religion. In the mid-14th century, a pious young man named Sergius ventured into the woods north of Moscow to devote his life to prayer and religious contemplation. Soon ordinary Russian people began flocking to Sergius, in search of both wisdom and miraculous cures. He was soon joined by Orthodox monks, and the famous St. Sergius Monastery was founded, to become perhaps the most important in all of Russia.
It was from here, Sergeev Posad (which means "Sergius' Planting"),that Sergius led the drive to unite the country against the Mongol oppressors. It was Sergius too who blessed the Russian warriors before their first decisive victory against the Mongols. St. Sergius is now the patron saint of Russia. Today Sergeev Posad is a beautifully restored town, filled with churches, and still visited by religious Russians seeking enlightenment and miracles, as well as by very many tourists). Sergeev Posad is also known for its wood carvings (toys in particular) and matryoska dolls. As the closest of the Golden Ring cities to Moscow, Sergeev Posad is highly recommended as a day-trip – in fact we’d say it’s a must!
After lunch we continue our exploration of the Russian provinces. We go on to Suzdal, one of the main centers or the Orthodox church in Russia, and one of the oldest Russian towns: a green, picturesque town, where you can both experience Russian rural life, and enjoy walking among monasteries and covenants with fairy- tale domes. In Suzdal it feels as if nothing has changed since the nineteenth century; goats, chicken and cows graze freely next to the Tsar’s fortress (Kremlin) and the monasteries, and on the grassy lanes.
Day 5 - Golden Ring
In the morning we go to Bogolyubovo to visit the world-famous Church of the Intercession, on the river Nerl, considered one of the most exquisite masterpieces of Russian architecture. Russian Orthodox Christians believe that Bogolyubovo was founded on the spot where Andrei Bogolyubsky had a miraculous vision of the Virgin Mary.
Then visit Vladimir, in far-off times the capital of Russia. Vladimir is one of the cities that played a major role in the emergence of the Russian state. The history of the city goes back over a thousand years. The town was founded in the 990s by Prince Vladimir, known as the Baptiser of Russia. In the 13th century Vladimir suffered heavy damage during the Mongol invasion, but in spite of this for the next 200 years the own was still the foremost in Russia, till finally Moscow was recognized as the capital. In 1395 the icon of Holy Virgin Mary of Vladimir, the city’s most holy relic , was moved to Moscow.
At the end of the 18th century Vladimir became the provinical capital.It has always retained its individuality and attractiveness.
Vladimir is famous for its rich and varied exhibitions, displaying the ancient culture, the heroic history and contemporary life of this fascinating town.
Day 6 - St. Petersburg
Arrival in St. Petersburg. Transfer to the hotel. City tour of St. Petersburg. Your guide will take you around the stunning “ Venice of the North”; you will see many famous sites including St. Isaac’s Cathedral and the Church of Christ’s Resurrection (The Saviour of the Blood).
We will also visit Peter and Paul Fortress which is located in the historical part of St. Petersburg. The fortress, the first building of the new city, was founded in order to protect the Neva lands, regained during the Northern War, from possible attacks by Swedish troops. The fortress was used as a political prison before 1917. This doughty fortress-cum-prison has had many of its buildings converted into museums and features a splendid cathedral containing the tombs of the Romanov monarchs.
Get on board the Aurora, the flagship of the Revolution, the legendary ship whose canon gave the signal, on the order of Lenin, for the beginning of the Great Socialist Revolution more than 90 years ago.
In the evening Visit to the Folk Show “Feel yourself Russian”. The mysterious Russian soul… You can travel all way through Russia and still not understand what it’s all about – why this country between Europe and Asia is still not understood either by either East or West. But visit the folk show at Nikolaevsky Palace and you’ll probably find some clues! These are Russian artists who want to preserve the traditional folk art of all the different parts of Russia – from energetic Cossack dances to mellow songs from the north of the country and the lively sounds of the balalaika,the traditional Russian instrument.
Day 7 - St. Petersburg
After breakfast we will visit one of the world famous museums, the Hermitage, housed in the former Winter Palace. The museum contains an enormous collection of Western Art, including works by Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt, Picasso and many other great masters. There are also Historical, Russian and Oriental sections which are definitely worth visiting. From the 1760s, the Winter Palace was the main residence of the Russian Tsars. Magnificently located on the bank of the river Neva, this Baroque-style palace is perhaps the major attraction of St. Petersburg.
Day 8 - St. Petersburg
Half day tour to the suburbs of St Petersburg to visit one of the magnificent summer palaces.
In summer: Transfer to Petrodvorets. Best known for its glorious fountains and Summer Gardens, the palace is often compared to France's Versailles.
In winter: Transfer to Tsarskoye Selo (formerly known as Pushkin settlement), one of St. Petersburg's numerous Imperial estates.
Transfer to the airport to fly back home in the afternoon.
The Golden Ring is the name given to the chain of ancient towns to the north and east of Moscow. The history of the Golden Ring towns goes back over a thousand years. They comprise a collection of architectural masterpieces, set in the charming landscape of central Russia. Sergeev Posad is the former religious capital of Russia, with exquisitely restored architecture; Vladimir is one of the cities that played a major role in the emergence of the Russian state in the 10 – 11th centuries. The Golden Ring is also an opportunity to get to know the real life of the Russian provinces, unhurried and calm, just as it was hundreds of years ago, and as it is described in classical literature and history..
Have an amazing experience, and gain a unique insight into a foreign culture, history, religion and traditions!
ITINERARY
Day 1 - Moscow
Arrival in Moscow. Transfer to the hotel. After registration (if you still have energy after your flight) have your first glimpse of the Russian capital.
Day 2 - Moscow
After breakfast in the hotel, a bus tour around the city. During the city tour you will see all the major sights, including the Red Square, the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, the Novodevichiy Convent, Tverskaya Street, Bulvarnoye Koltso (Boulevard Ring), and other attractions. Our tour guide takes you to the “Sparrow Hills” with an observation platform which provides a fantastic panoramic view of Moscow – this ancient city with the rich history and culture.
After lunch we continue our discovery of Moscow - a city of great Russian history and culture. Today we will visit the heart of Moscow - the Kremlin - former residence of Tsars and Russian Orthodox Patriarchs. Nowadays the residence of the President of the Russian Federation is situated in the Kremlin grounds. You’ll visit its uniquely beautiful Orthodox cathedrals, see the famous Tsar Cannon, one of the largest cannons ever made and never tested in battle; the Tsar Bell, the largest in the world, weighting 15 times as much as London’s Big Ben! While some of you will enjoy the beautiful St. Basils cathedral, others might be more interested in the famous Red Square, where all military parades take place. If you have time and energy left you could queue for the world-famous Lenin Mausoleum: a rare chance to see for yourself one of the few embalmed bodies in the world. It’s estimated that more than 10 million people have visited Lenin's tomb since it went on display in 1924. The preservation and public display of Lenin's body inspired the creation of Mao’s Mausoleum and similars one for Ho Chi Minhand Kim Il Sung.
In the afternoon, take a stroll along Arbat Street, famous for its souvenirs, and browse among the shops for gifts for your friends and family. Here you can buy the famous Russian fur hats (“shapkas”). Transfer to your hotel.
Day 3 - Moscow
After a busy few days, with a full cultural and historical program, we take it easy today and have fun Russian style! We will go to the Kremlin in Izmailovo settlement (part of Moscow), where we’ll be met by a real Russian Tsar and Tsaritsa, and welcomed in the traditional Russian way,with bread and salt. For those who can present their ID, a shot of vodka is also on the menu! After a short introduction we invite you to take part in various activities, depending on your age and interests, as well as the time of year: folk games such as khoduli walking, rope pulling, treasure hunt, troika ride… After this action-packed morning, relax and browse among the stalls of nearby Izmalovo flea market, a treasure trove of old and new. All the usual souvenirs are on sale, including Soviet memorabilia and matrioshka dolls, as well as antique silver and jewelry, samovars, icons…
After lunch we will have a short introduction to the famous Moscow underground visiting several stations. The legendary Moscow Metro – fast and efficient way to go around. It is one of the oldest underground systems in the world, and the second busiest. The first stations were opened in 1935, although the first construction plans date back to the Russian Empire, when the Tsarist administration, impressed by their visits to other European capitals such as London, Berlin and Paris, thought to create a fast rail service that would serve Moscow and Saint Petersburg. Built at the height of the Soviet era, it represents Soviet Realism at its best:monumental mosaics and stunning frescos, symbolising the power and strength of the USSR.
Then we invite you to visit a formerly secret location, Taganskiy, created out of a Soviet era secret signalling center. After a rapid 65-meter descent by lift, you’ll discover one of the USSR’s top-secret military facilities , the Taganskiy Secured Command Post (SCP) . Construction of the Taganskiy SCP started in 1951. 5 years later in 1956, construction of an enormous underground site with over 7000 square meters was approved by the authorities. The USSR National Security Department took this site under its strict control, to provide round-the-clock communication for the state leadership in case of nuclear attack. Now the Taganskiy SCP is merely a monument to the might of the former Soviet Union. The ultimate goal of the reconstruction of the Taganskiy SCP is as a reminder of the history of the confrontation between the two superpowers and to prevent any future nuclear conflict. Optional: interactive game in this secret military location (available upon request).
In the evening you will enjoy a performance at the world-famous Moscow State Circus which was initially founded in London by English entrepreneur Philip Astley who was invited by Katherine the Great to introduce this performance entertainment in Russia!
Day 4. - Golden Ring
After breakfast in the hotel you start to explore provincial Russia, beginning with Sergiev Posad, the heart of the Russian Orthodox religion. In the mid-14th century, a pious young man named Sergius ventured into the woods north of Moscow to devote his life to prayer and religious contemplation. Soon ordinary Russian people began flocking to Sergius, in search of both wisdom and miraculous cures. He was soon joined by Orthodox monks, and the famous St. Sergius Monastery was founded, to become perhaps the most important in all of Russia.
It was from here, Sergeev Posad (which means "Sergius' Planting"),that Sergius led the drive to unite the country against the Mongol oppressors. It was Sergius too who blessed the Russian warriors before their first decisive victory against the Mongols. St. Sergius is now the patron saint of Russia. Today Sergeev Posad is a beautifully restored town, filled with churches, and still visited by religious Russians seeking enlightenment and miracles, as well as by very many tourists). Sergeev Posad is also known for its wood carvings (toys in particular) and matryoska dolls. As the closest of the Golden Ring cities to Moscow, Sergeev Posad is highly recommended as a day-trip – in fact we’d say it’s a must!
After lunch we continue our exploration of the Russian provinces. We go on to Suzdal, one of the main centers or the Orthodox church in Russia, and one of the oldest Russian towns: a green, picturesque town, where you can both experience Russian rural life, and enjoy walking among monasteries and covenants with fairy- tale domes. In Suzdal it feels as if nothing has changed since the nineteenth century; goats, chicken and cows graze freely next to the Tsar’s fortress (Kremlin) and the monasteries, and on the grassy lanes.
Day 5 - Golden Ring
In the morning we go to Bogolyubovo to visit the world-famous Church of the Intercession, on the river Nerl, considered one of the most exquisite masterpieces of Russian architecture. Russian Orthodox Christians believe that Bogolyubovo was founded on the spot where Andrei Bogolyubsky had a miraculous vision of the Virgin Mary.
Then visit Vladimir, in far-off times the capital of Russia. Vladimir is one of the cities that played a major role in the emergence of the Russian state. The history of the city goes back over a thousand years. The town was founded in the 990s by Prince Vladimir, known as the Baptiser of Russia. In the 13th century Vladimir suffered heavy damage during the Mongol invasion, but in spite of this for the next 200 years the own was still the foremost in Russia, till finally Moscow was recognized as the capital. In 1395 the icon of Holy Virgin Mary of Vladimir, the city’s most holy relic , was moved to Moscow.
At the end of the 18th century Vladimir became the provinical capital.It has always retained its individuality and attractiveness.
Vladimir is famous for its rich and varied exhibitions, displaying the ancient culture, the heroic history and contemporary life of this fascinating town.
Day 6 - St. Petersburg
Arrival in St. Petersburg. Transfer to the hotel. City tour of St. Petersburg. Your guide will take you around the stunning “ Venice of the North”; you will see many famous sites including St. Isaac’s Cathedral and the Church of Christ’s Resurrection (The Saviour of the Blood).
We will also visit Peter and Paul Fortress which is located in the historical part of St. Petersburg. The fortress, the first building of the new city, was founded in order to protect the Neva lands, regained during the Northern War, from possible attacks by Swedish troops. The fortress was used as a political prison before 1917. This doughty fortress-cum-prison has had many of its buildings converted into museums and features a splendid cathedral containing the tombs of the Romanov monarchs.
Get on board the Aurora, the flagship of the Revolution, the legendary ship whose canon gave the signal, on the order of Lenin, for the beginning of the Great Socialist Revolution more than 90 years ago.
In the evening Visit to the Folk Show “Feel yourself Russian”. The mysterious Russian soul… You can travel all way through Russia and still not understand what it’s all about – why this country between Europe and Asia is still not understood either by either East or West. But visit the folk show at Nikolaevsky Palace and you’ll probably find some clues! These are Russian artists who want to preserve the traditional folk art of all the different parts of Russia – from energetic Cossack dances to mellow songs from the north of the country and the lively sounds of the balalaika,the traditional Russian instrument.
Day 7 - St. Petersburg
After breakfast we will visit one of the world famous museums, the Hermitage, housed in the former Winter Palace. The museum contains an enormous collection of Western Art, including works by Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt, Picasso and many other great masters. There are also Historical, Russian and Oriental sections which are definitely worth visiting. From the 1760s, the Winter Palace was the main residence of the Russian Tsars. Magnificently located on the bank of the river Neva, this Baroque-style palace is perhaps the major attraction of St. Petersburg.
Day 8 - St. Petersburg
Half day tour to the suburbs of St Petersburg to visit one of the magnificent summer palaces.
In summer: Transfer to Petrodvorets. Best known for its glorious fountains and Summer Gardens, the palace is often compared to France's Versailles.
In winter: Transfer to Tsarskoye Selo (formerly known as Pushkin settlement), one of St. Petersburg's numerous Imperial estates.
Transfer to the airport to fly back home in the afternoon.