VISA FREE TOURS FROM FREMAD RUSSIA Prices are per person per tour Tour name 2-3 pax 3-6 pax 7-8 pax 8-10 pax 1 St.Petersburg City tour, including inside visits to Peter and Paul Fortress; Church on the Spilled Blood and St.Isaac`s Cathedrals 3,5 hours 113.00 $ 62.00 $ 52.00 $ 46.00 $ 2 The Hermitage museum (early opening) 3,5 hours 110.00 $ 59.00 $ 50.00 $ 44,00 $ 2a The Hermitage museum (regular opening) 3,5 hours 102.00 $ 55.00 $ 45.00 $ 39.00 $ 3 Peterhof excursion, one way by hydrofoil 4,5 hours 83.00 $ 83.00 $ 77.00 $ 75.00 $ 4 Pushkin & Pavlovsk Parks and Palaces 7,5 hours 205.00 $ 135.00 $ 100.00 $ 95.00 $ 5 Visit to Gold & Diamond Treasures of the Hermitage 3,5 hours 190.00 $ 87.00 $ 69.00 $ 58.00 $ 6 Catherine Palace in Pushkin 4 hours 61.00 $ 62.00 $ 58.00 $ 54.00 $ 7 St.Petersburg Cathedrals 3,5 hours 55.00 $ 55.00 $ 51.00 $ 47.00 $ 8 One day tour to Moscow, 18 hours 18 hours 710.00 $ 580.00 $ 532.00 $ 505.00 $ 9 An Evening of Russian Ballet (Marininski Theatre) 306.00 $ 300.00 $ 290.00 $ 287.00 $ 10 Everyday city life of Russians 3,5 hours 45.00 $ 48.00 $ 43.00 $ 40.00 $ 11 Catherine Palace and Hermitage 8 hours 133.00 $ 135.00 $ 124.00 $ 120.00 $ 12 Back to Peter The Great Times 4 hours 60.00 $ 64.00 $ 57.00 $ 51.00 $ 13 Yusupov Paalce and Private Cruise 3,5 hours 68.00 $ 67.00 $ 66.00 $ 64.00 $ 14 Peterhof & Cathedrals 8 hours 173.00 $ 163.00$ 157.00$ 150.00$ 15 Night of Russian Ballet (Alexandrinsky Theatre) 135.00 $ 134.00 $ 130.00 $ 127.00 $ 16 Visit to Faberge Museum 3,5 hours 80,00 $ 67,00 $ 63,00 $ 55,00 $ 17 Splendid St.Petersburg 3,5 hours 98,00 $ 48,00 $ 38,00 $ 33,00 $
TOUR 1: ST.PETERSBURG SIGHTSEEING TOUR, PETER AND PAUL FORTRESS, ST.ISAAK S CATHEDRAL AND CHURCH ON THE SPILLED BLOOD 3,5 Hours Explore the splendid art, architecture and beauty of the Russian Orthodox churches of St. Petersburg during this scenic and memorable cathedral tour. You will start the tour from the city centre of a visit to St. Isaac's Square, which is dominated by the expansive St. Isaac's Cathedral. St. Isaac's Cathedral The opulent interior of this spectacular cathedral spans 43,000 square feet (4,000 square metres), and is filled with hundreds of impressive 19th-century works of art. The cathedral took 40 years to construct, and nearly 900 pounds (409 kilos) of pure gold were used to gild the interior and dome, which is visible approximately 25 miles (40 kilometres) away in good weather. The cathedral features interior walls faced with 14 different kinds of marble, and three 20-tonne (18,143-kilo) oak and bronze doors adorned with carved reliefs. Spilled Blood Cathedral Next, re-board your coach for a visit to the Spilled Blood Cathedral. Also known as the 'Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ', this multicoloured, onion-domed church is one of the most ornate in Russia. Built in the early-20th century on the spot where Alexander II was assassinated in 1881 by terrorists, the church is richlydecorated with different types of marble from all over the world and its walls are covered with exquisite mosaics. Although years of neglect during the Soviet era left the building in poor condition, a painstaking, 27- year restoration led to the reopening of the cathedral in 1997. Peter and Paul Cathedral Your final stop is at the Peter and Paul Cathedral, which stands in the heart of the Peter and Paul Fortress. Designed and built between 1712 and 1733, it was designed by Peter the Great, who also decreed it to be the tallest structure in the city. After his death in 1725, the cathedral BACK TO PRICE LIST
TOUR 2 & 2a: THE STATE HERMITAGE MUSEUM (Early or Regular Opening) 3,5 Hours Embrace the exquisite beauty of the most spectacular museum in St. Petersburg during this scenic and memorable visit to the Hermitage Museum (early or regular opening). Founded in 1764 as the private museum of Catherine the Great, the Hermitage Museum is Russia's largest art museum and home to an astounding collection of about three million pieces of art. The collection occupies four buildings; the Winter Palace, the Small Hermitage, the Old Hermitage and the New Hermitage. Upon arrival, enter the Winter Palace via the stunning Jordan Staircase. At the upper landing, take a guided walking tour through the superb staterooms of the Winter Palace. Next, proceed to the Small Hermitage for a visit to the Pavilion Hall, which features slender marble columns, an elegant gallery and 28 lovely cut-glass chandeliers. A visit is then made to other buildings and galleries en route to the Old Hermitage, which features a collection of 13th to 18th-century Italian art. On display are works by Leonardo Da Vinci, Rafael, Michelangelo, Giordgione, and Titian. At the New Hermitage, view a collection of Spanish art by El Greco, Murillo, Zurbaran, Velasquez, and Goya, among others. The Hermitage is also home to a vast Rembrandt collection, over 40 works by Rubens, and impressionist and post-impressionists paintings by Monet, Renoir, Cezanne, Van Gogh, Gauguin, Matisse, and Picasso.
TOUR 3: PETERHOF EXCURSION, ONE WAY BY HYDROFOIL 4,5 Hours Experience the scenic splendor of St. Petersburg during this memorable, half-day visit to the magnificent Peterhof Palace. Take an one-hour, 18-mile (29-kilometre) drive to the Gulf of Finland, and a visit to the Peterhof Palace. Enroute, see picturesque historic landmarks, mansions, churches and the State Palace of Congresses, or 'Constantine Palace'. Peterhof Palace This 300-year-old palace is known as 'Versailles by the Sea', and served as one of the summer residences of the royal family. The spectacular grounds of Peterhof are comprised of the Upper and Lower Park, and feature a number of delightful little palaces built as private residences of the tsars. Crowning the hill is Peter's Grand Palace, which features a commanding view over the Lower Park and the Gulf of Finland. Grand Palace Tour Upon arrival at Peterhof, proceed to the Upper Park, designed by Peter himself as a French formal garden. After a guided walking tour of the park, proceed for a visit inside the breathtaking Grand Palace. Enter the palace from the main staircase adorned with gilded carvings, then take a guided tour of the elegant staterooms, Dancing Hall, Audience Hall, Drawing Rooms, Chesma Hall, the opulent Throne Room, the White Dining Room, and Peter's Oak Study. Lower Gardens Tour Next, descend into the Lower Gardens, a 300-acre (121-hectare) fountain park with a number of pavilions and palaces overlooking the Gulf of Finland. The park comprises about 150 fountains and four cascades that include the Grand Cascade, the largest fountain ensemble in the world and the highlight of the grounds. Following your visit, board a comfortable hydrofoil and commence the 40-minute return ride to St. Petersburg. Upon arrival, board a coach for the approximate 30-minute drive back to the pier.
TOUR 4: PUSHKIN & PAVLOVSK PARKS AND PALACES 7,5 Hours Explore St. Petersburg's most spectacular suburban residences during this memorable, full-day tour of the Catherine and Pavlovsk palaces. Take one-hour drive to the Catherine Palace. Enroute, see historic landmarks, and residential and commercial areas. Catherine Palace Located in Tsarskoye Selo, or 'Tsar's Village', the Catherine Palace is surrounded by a romantic park with mysterious arbours, pavilions, grottoes and statues. Upon arrival, admire the palace's beautiful, 984-foot (300- metre) azure facades; then ascend the Great Staircase en route to the beautiful staterooms on the second floor. See the gilded and opulent Great Hall, the Amber Room and the famous Green Dining Room. After the palace tour, take a brief guided stroll in the 1,400-acre (566-hectare) park. Following your visit to Catherine's, re-board your coach and proceed to a Podvorie Restaurant for a traditional Russian lunch accompanied by folkloric music. Pavlovsk Palace After lunch, continue the day with a visit to Pavlovsk Palace, the former royal summer residence of Emperor Paul I, the only son of Catherine the Great. The palace remained a residence of the Romanov family until 1915. Though the palace and the park were destroyed in 1941-44, they have been completely restored and present the most complete picture of a royal suburban residence. Following your palace tour, take a guided walk in the romantic, 1,800-acre (728-hectare) Pavlovsk Park, one of the finest landscaped parks in Europe. Leaving Pavlovsk Park, re-board your coach for the approximate 1.25- hour return drive to the hotel or pier.
TOUR 5: VISIT TO GOLD & DIAMOND TREASURES OF THE HERMITAGE 3,5 Hours Explore the history of Russian jewellery and view some of its most splendid pieces during this memorable Silver Shore Collection visit to the Gold and Diamond rooms of the Hermitage. Upon arrival to the Hermitage the first visit is to the Diamond Room. The Diamond Room The Diamond Room is home to a significant collection of archaeological finds; the famous Scythian and Greek gold, numerous royal gifts and a fabulous collection of Western European jewellery crafted by the most prominent jewellers of the time. On display are numerous rings, pendants, watches, table decoration, fans, perfume bottles, and bouquets adorned with gold, enamels, emeralds, rubies, sapphires, and pearls once worn by royalty. A portion of the exhibit is highlighted by a superb collection of royal snuffboxes fashioned by many brilliant masters of the 18th century. The 19th-century jewellery reached its culmination in the works of Carl Fabergé. His fantasy pieces are found throughout the world, and are represented in the collection of the Diamond Room by a copy of the Russian Royal Regalia made for the World Exhibition in Paris. The Golden Room A visit is then made to the Golden Rooms, which feature a unique, three-section collection of jewellery amassed over two centuries and designed by Russian, European and Oriental artists and craftsmen. It was known as the 'Treasure Gallery' under Catherine the Great and augmented to yet greater splendour by her successors. The 'Gold of Nomads' consists of unique archaeological finds from the North Coast of the Black Sea, Northern Caucasus and Western Siberia, including the Siberian collection of Peter the Great and the fabulous Scythian Gold of the 7th-4th centuries BC. The 'Jewellery Art of the East and South America' is an exquisite selection of Oriental jewellery collections from Central Asia, Caucasus, India, Iran, Turkey, Egypt, Byzantium, Mongolia, China, Indonesia, and South America. The 'Pre-Columbian Jewellery of South America' features a huge variety of polished gemstones in every shape, size and colour.
TOUR 6: CATHERINE PALACE IN PUSHKIN 4 Hours Enjoy the day admiring the gilded beauty of two palaces - Catherine's Palace in Tsarskoe Selo and Winter Palace (known as one of the largest art museums in the world, the Hermitage) in St. Petersburg that for a long period of time were the Summer and Winter Residences of the Russian Tsars. Royal Palaces These royal palaces were constructed during the reign of Catherine the Great and are considered to be the most luxurious and a real 'must-see' while visiting St. Petersburg. Tsarskoe Selo, one of the most impressive sights in city`s surroundings. The palace complex of Tsarskoe Selo (which means "Tsars' Village" in Russian) includes attractions that are popular draws on their own: the Catherine Palace and parks, the Alexander Palace and parks, and associated outbuildings that have been restored or renovated into exhibition spaces. The entire complex is a part of the UNESCO-protected Russian World Heritage site and will dazzle you with its beauty. Catherine Palace Upon arrival to Tsarskoye Selo your tour starts with an inside visit to the Catherine Palace one of two grand palaces located in Tsarskoe Selo. Though it was built by Empress Elizabeth and named after her mother, Catherine, it was the better-known Catherine the Great who made the palace her place of summer residence, employing the work of architects and craftsmen to customise the palace to her particular tastes and requirements. Everybody who visits Catherine Palace will feel Catherine the Great's presence and her love of luxury in its sumptuous rooms. The Catherine Palace wasn't used by any of Russian tsars as regularly as by Catherine the Great and still nowadays, one can feel her influence both in its interior and exterior design.
TOUR 7: ST.PETERSBURG CATHEDRALS 3,5 Hours Explore the splendid art, architecture and beauty of the Russian Orthodox churches of St. Petersburg during this scenic and memorable cathedral tour. You will start the tour from the city centre of a visit to St. Isaac's Square, which is dominated by the expansive St. Isaac's Cathedral. St. Isaac's Cathedral The opulent interior of this spectacular cathedral spans 43,000 square feet (4,000 square metres), and is filled with hundreds of impressive 19th-century works of art. The cathedral took 40 years to construct, and nearly 900 pounds (409 kilos) of pure gold were used to gild the interior and dome, which is visible approximately 25 miles (40 kilometres) away in good weather. The cathedral features interior walls faced with 14 different kinds of marble, and three 20-tonne (18,143-kilo) oak and bronze doors adorned with carved reliefs. Spilled Blood Cathedral Next, re-board your coach for a visit to the Spilled Blood Cathedral. Also known as the 'Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ', this multicoloured, onion-domed church is one of the most ornate in Russia. Built in the early-20th century on the spot where Alexander II was assassinated in 1881 by terrorists, the church is richlydecorated with different types of marble from all over the world and its walls are covered with exquisite mosaics. Although years of neglect during the Soviet era left the building in poor condition, a painstaking, 27- year restoration led to the reopening of the cathedral in 1997. Peter and Paul Cathedral Your final stop is at the Peter and Paul Cathedral, which stands in the heart of the Peter and Paul Fortress. Designed and built between 1712 and 1733, it was designed by Peter the Great, who also decreed it to be the tallest structure in the city. After his death in 1725, the cathedral became the burial place of subsequent tsars.
TOUR 8: ONE DAY TOUR TO MOSCOW, 18 HOURS 18 Hours This Mid-Voyage Land Adventure may only be reserved by calling Silversea Reservations. Experience the highlights of Russia's exciting capital in one day during this unforgettable visit to Moscow and the Kremlin. High-Speed Train to Moscow Depart the pier with your guide for the transfer to the train station in downtown St. Petersburg and board the Sapsan high-speed train for approximately 4-hrs transfer to Moscow. Relax and enjoy the passing scenery from the comfort of your business class carriage. Hot and cold snacks and beverages will be provided from the rail's Bistro car enroute. Panoramic Drive Upon arrival, meet your Moscow guide and depart for a sightseeing drive through the bustling city.the city tour starts directly from the square of three railway stations where the train arrives. After boarding the coach, drive in the direction of the old Moscow City passing the skyscrapers of the Stalin epoch. Driving along Myasnitskaya Street, the guide will show you the old town of masters located in front of Kitay Town. The first stop will be at Sofiiskaya Embankment with the magnificent view to the old Kremlin structures and walls. From this place, you see the famous monument of Peter the Great created by soviet sculptor Zeretelli. Next, a stop will be made at the Church of Christ Savior, it is possible to go inside the Cathedral for a quick look. The tour continues with a drive through the business area of the city - MOSCOW CITY. New Maiden Convent / Photo Stops New Maiden (or Novodevichy) Convent is probably the best known cloister of Moscow. Unlike other Moscow cloisters, it has remained virtually intact since the 17th century. It was founded in 1525 by the Father of Ivan the Terrible in commemoration of the conquest of Smolensk in 1514. It was built as a fortress at a curve of the Moskva River and became an important part of the southern defensive belt of the capital, which had already included a number of other monasteries. In the course of time it became a place of solitary retreat for the Tsars' widows and orphaned daughters, and royal families donated money and treasures to support of the Convent. The tour continues with a photo stop at Vorobiev Hills with the magnificent panoramic view over Moscow and the world renowned Moscow University. Following this stop, re-board your coach and continue driving towards Poklonnaya Hill, where the monument to the heroes of Second World War is located before arriving at the Artist s Gallery restaurant. Following a relaxing lunch, re-join your coach and proceed to the Kremlin.
TOUR 8: ONE DAY TOUR TO MOSCOW, 18 HOURS 18 Hours Kremlin and Armory Chamber Built as a fortress in the 12th century, the Kremlin is an official residence of the President of the Russian Federation and the President's office. Your tour of the Kremlin includes a visit to the Armory chamber that houses a world-famous collection of treasures of the tsars and the Russian state including royal crowns, costumes, jewellery and the incredible Moscow Kremlin Fabrege' Egg (Uspenski Cathedral Egg). Your walking tour involves the extensive Kremlin grounds with the Cathedral Square as its focal point. Surrounding the square are masterpieces of Italian architects of the 15th century. Along the way, visit the Assumption Cathedral, once a private chapel of the tsars, to admire the beautiful frescoes and a striking iconostasis. Following the visit to Kremlin Grounds and Armory, walk through Alexandrovsky Park with the burial place of the unknown soldierto the Red Square, where you have an hour of free time for exploring the City Centre on your own. Red Square Dominated by the multi-coloured onion domes of St. Basil's Cathedral and the Kremlin Towers, the square was originally a marketplace and over the years, developed as the city's major showpiece. The square offers scenic vistas and photo opportunities of Lenin's Mausoleum, the Kremlin Towers, Lenin's Tomb, St. Basil's Cathedral and the GUM Department Store. Inside visit to St.Basil Cathedral St. Basil Cathedral is one of the most outstanding and remarkable monuments of Old Russian architecture. In the 16th century the tourists admired the beauty of the cathedral, and for the Russians it became the symbol of native history and culture. St. Basil Cathedral is a symmetrical architectural ensemble consisting of eight chapels surrounding the ninth temple, which is the highest one. It is topped with a hipped roof. Each chapel bears the name of a saint. The central temple is dedicated to the Intersection of the Blessed Virgin. The chapels are conjoined by the system of passages. The cupolas that top the chapels are different from each other. Each cupola is decorated with windows, niches, and cornices. The cathedral impress as a festive and elegant one. In the middle of the 20s of the 20th century St. Basil Cathedral got the status of museum. Since 1934 it is the branch of the State Historical Museum in Moscow. Your tour concludes at the Leningrad Train Station in downtown Moscow, for the approximate 4-hour return ride to St. Petersburg aboard the Sapsan. Adjust your backrest and prop your feet up as you relax and enjoy beverage and snack service on the return trip. Upon arrival in St. Petersburg, transfer back to the ship.
TOUR 9: AN EVENING OF RUSSIAN BALLET (MARININSKI THEATRE) 3,5-4 hours 50 pax Discover why St. Petersburg is very famous for its rich theatrical life during this stirring and memorable evening Russian opera or ballet performance. The Mariinsky Theatre is a historic theatre of opera and ballet in Saint Petersburg, Russia. Opened in 1860, it became the preeminent music theatre of late 19th century Russia, where many of the stage masterpieces of Tchaikovsky, Musorgsky and Rimsky-Korsakov received their premieres. The theatre is named after Empress Maria Alexandrovna, wife of Tsar Alexander II. The Imperial opera and ballet theatre in Saint Petersburg was established in 1783 at the behest of Catherine the Great, although an Italian ballet troupe had performed at the Russian court since the early 18th century. Under the Soviets the theatre was named after Kirov to commemorate the assassinated Leningrad Communist Party leader, Sergey Kirov (1886-1934). Presently, the Company lists on its roster 22 sopranos (of which Anna Netrebko may be the best known); 13 mezzo-sopranos (with Olga Borodina familiar to US and European audiences); 23 tenors; eight baritones; and 14 basses. Since Yuri Temirkanov's retirement in 1988, the conductor Valery Gergiev has served as its general director. Take your chance to experience the wonderful theatrical world of St. Petersburg. Few cities in the world can boast such an incredible cultural heritage. Tonight as you arrive at the theatre, you are escorted to your seats. Soon the curtain will go up and you will enjoy one of the greatest romantic ballets of all times (or opera). The repertoire of St. Petersburg theatres consists mostly of world recognized outstanding ballets like Swan Lake, Nutcracker, Giselle or Sleeping Beauty. All these ballets have enjoyed an enduring popularity for over a century and can be found in the repertoire of virtually every classical ballet company in the world. In 2013 the Theatre launched the new stage and now it is considered to be the theatre complex consisting of two buildings. It could happen that the performance on that exact evening will be scheduled only on the new stage, the old one would be closed for day off.
TOUR 10: EVERYDAY CITY LIFE OF RUSSIANS 3,5 hours Experience the daily life of St. Petersburg, the second largest city in Russia, and its inhabitants during this halfday tour. This is the opportunity to see St. Petersburg through the eyes of its inhabitants. While touring palatial St. Petersburg, one is dazzled by the beauty of its palaces, cathedrals and parks, but the city offers much more than this. Metro Ride One of the tourist attractions is a ride on the Metro. The Metro's stunning stations were intended by Stalin to be "palaces for the people." Thousands of tons of marble, granite and lime stone were used to face the walls, and sculptures, mosaics and chandeliers were commissioned from leading artists. The first line opened in 1955 is the most fascinating. You are shown a few stations and take a short ride on the train. The Metro ride is quite an experience and gives a glimpse of the daily life of the people of St. Petersburg. Farmer's Market A peek at St. Petersburg's markets and food stores provides an intriguing insight into local life. Many locals shop in the food markets where you can find fruit, vegetables, fresh meat and fish, delicious homemade cottage cheese and wonderful natural honey. Sellers in the market come from all over the former Soviet Union and one can witness quite a variety of nationalities there and enjoy friendly attitudes. Russian Vodka Museum After the visit to the market, continue to the museum of Russian Vodka for a short tour and vodka tasting. You will be treated to a variety of vodkas together with traditional Russian condiments served to complement this famous Russian drink before your return to the hotel or ship.
TOUR 11: CATHERINE PALACE AND HERMITAGE 8 hours Enjoy the day admiring the gilded beauty of two palaces - Catherine's Palace in Tsarskoe Selo and Winter Palace (known as one of the largest art museums in the world, the Hermitage) in St. Petersburg that for a long period of time were the Summer and Winter Residences of the Russian Tsars during this full-day tour. Royal Palaces These royal palaces were constructed during the reign of Catherine the Great and are considered to be the most luxurious and a real 'must-see' while visiting St. Petersburg. Tsarskoe Selo, one of the most impressive sights in city`s surroundings. The palace complex of Tsarskoe Selo (which means "Tsars' Village" in Russian) includes attractions that are popular draws on their own: the Catherine Palace and parks, the Alexander Palace and parks, and associated outbuildings that have been restored or renovated into exhibition spaces. The entire complex is a part of the UNESCO-protected Russian World Heritage site and will dazzle you with its beauty. Catherine Palace Upon arrival to Tsarskoye Selo your tour starts with an inside visit to the Catherine Palace one of two grand palaces located in Tsarskoe Selo. Though it was built by Empress Elizabeth and named after her mother, Catherine, it was the better-known Catherine the Great who made the palace her place of summer residence, employing the work of architects and craftsmen to customise the palace to her particular tastes and requirements. Everybody who visits Catherine Palace will feel Catherine the Great's presence and her love of luxury in its sumptuous rooms. The Catherine Palace wasn't used by any of Russian tsars as regularly as by Catherine the Great and still nowadays, one can feel her influence both in its interior and exterior design. After the inside visit of Catherine`s Palace and a leisurely stroll around the Gardens, proceed to the restaurant Podvorie for lunch.. Following lunch, re-board the coach for the approximate 40-minute drive back to St. Petersburg for an inside visit to the world-famous Hermitage. Winter Palace / Hermitage Upon arrival, proceed for a visit to the Winter Palace one of the buildings that makes up the Hermitage museum complex. The whole museum complex consists of five buildings facing embankment of Neva River. Hermitage is the fabulously rich treasure house of art whose collections are world renowned and considered to be the largest art museum not only in Russia but also in the world. It was founded by Catherine the Great in 1764 as a private court museum in the building of magnificent Winter Palace. Now it contains the most remarkable collection of art in the world of more than 2.7 million works of art. The Winter Palace itself is a masterpiece of architecture and its elegant interior recalls centuries of historical events. The contoured ceilings, precious woods, magnificent halls and staterooms, elegant richly decorated staircases exude the highest level of wealth and beauty. Your guided tour includes the suite of gala rooms, the Small Hermitage with its sparkling Pavilion Hall.
TOUR 12: BACK TO PETER THE GREAT TIMES 3,5 hours Enjoy a visit to the first buildings that appeared in the delta of the Neva River when Peter the Great decided to found the City on the Zaitchy (Hare) Island. Menshikov Palace Transfer to Menshikov Palace that is located on the same side of Neva River Embankment facing the Bronze Horse Men, the monument to Peter the Great and enjoy an inside visit to Menshikov Palace. The Menshikov Palace was the residence of Prince Alexander Menshikov, a close friend and ally of Peter the Great. The first stone building in St Petersburg was constructed in 1710 and was presented to the prince by the emperor. It is located in the very centre of a large urban estate of Vasilyevsky Island and is considered to be one of the oldest surviving stone buildings in the city.twenty-one rooms are currently open to the public. Log Cabin of Peter the Great Following your visit, re-board the coach for short transfer to the Log Cabin of Peter the Great, the first wooden house in St.Petersburg for an inside visit. The Log Cabin of Peter the Great is situated on the right bank of the Neva river, in the shade of large oaks. It is a unique monument of Saint Petersburg's architecture. The cabin, which is the only wooden structure of the city foundation period that survived until today, was constructed within a very short time - from the 24th to the 26th of May, 1703. The cabin made of hewn pine-tree logs and painted brick-like, was the first residence of Peter the Great in Saint Petersburg. Summer Garden Stroll Following your visit to the Cabin, re-board the coach for the transfer to the Summer Garden for a leisurely walk. The Summer Garden is one of the places where you can feel the atmosphere of Peter`s time. The garden, with a collection of sculptures and the Summer Palace that was the first Emperor`s residence, constitute a single museum complex. The Summer Garden is a pearl in the garden necklace of Petersburg. It was laid out in 1704. Time has changed the garden a lot; however, its original planning still remains. Peter the Great wanted the garden of his residence to be as beautiful as the famous gardens of European Monarchs. To decorate the Summer Garden he commissioned marble busts and statues from Italy. This purchase laid down the foundation of the collection of sculpture of European level. The Neva fencing of the Summer Garden is an architectural masterpiece of universal fame. The impressive monumentality merges miraculously with lightness, simplicity and grace. Scenic Boat Cruise Following the walk around the Summer Garden, proceed to the pier located in front of the main entrance to the Garden for A 45-minutes boat ride to view more of the city's sites from the water. St. Petersburg was built in the delta of the Neva River and is spread out over numerous islands of different sizes, frequently prompting the nickname the 'City of 101 Islands'. The boat ride ends at the pier where you re-board the coach for the transfer to the hotel or pier.
TOUR 13: YUSUPOV PALACE AND PRIVATE CRUISE 3,5 hours Don't miss a chance to indulge in the mysteries of the 'Venice of the North'. Tour includes visits to the most famous and enigmatic places of the city that are not only stunning sites, but also have mysterious historical value. Yusupov Palace Take a transfer to Yusupov Palace associated with one of the most controversial personalities in Russian history, Grigori Rasputin, and his dramatic assassination that has become a legend and mystery that still haunts visitors and fascinates historians. Upon arrival start the tour by visiting Gala and private rooms of the Palace. The Yusupov family owned the palace from 1830 to 1917. The palace catches one's eye by its unique rooms such as the Moorish room with its beautiful mosaics and the Pool room with a secret compartment under the table. Admire the famous private theatre of the Yusupov Palace, which is small-scale copy of the Mariinsky Theatre. Every generation of the Yusupov family designed and redesigned some of the rooms, and as a result the palace has turned into a museum displaying historical interiors from the beginning of the 19th to the beginning of the 20th century. While passing through the exquisitely decorated interiors of the palace, the full story of the murder of Rasputin unfolds in front of you. Grigori Rasputin, a peasant and self-proclaimed holy man, had gradually won favor with the Tsar's family through his alleged supernatural powers. His control over the decisions of the family and the Russian ruler himself, put him in a potentially manipulative position and posed a very real threat to their power. Consequently, Rasputin was murdered at the Yusupov Palace on the night of December 16, 1916, and his death proved to be an almost greater mystery than his life had been. Canal Boat Ride to Spilled Blood Following the visit to Yusupov Palace embark a boat for short boat ride through the canals. The boat pier is located just in front of the main entrance of the Yusupov Palace The boat ride finishes near the Church on the Spilled Blood from where your proceed to one of the most breathtaking sites in St. Petersburg.
TOUR 14: PETERHOFF & CATHEDRALS 8 hours Experience the scenic splendor of St. Petersburg during this memorable full-day visiting to the magnificent Peterhof and Palace following by lunch and inside visits to the remarkable landmarks of the city such as St. Isaac`s Cathedral, Peter & Paul Fortress and Church on the Spilled Blood. It is approximately 18-mile (29-kilometre) drive to the Gulf of Finland, and a visit to the Peterhof Palace. En route, see picturesque historic landmarks, mansions, churches and the State Palace of Congresses, or 'Constantine Palace'. Peterhof Palace This 300-year-old palace is known as 'Versailles by the Sea', and served as one of the summer residences of the royal family. The spectacular grounds of Peterhof are comprised of the Upper and Lower Park, and feature a number of delightful little palaces built as private residences of the tsars. Crowning the hill is Peter's Grand Palace, which features a commanding view over the Lower Park and the Gulf of Finland. Grand Palace Tour Upon arrival at Peterhof, proceed to the Upper Park, designed by Peter himself as a French formal garden. After a guided walking tour of the park, proceed for a visit inside the breathtaking Grand Palace. Enter the palace from the main staircase adorned with gilded carvings, then take a guided tour of the elegant staterooms, Dancing Hall, Audience Hall, Drawing Rooms, Chesma Hall, the opulent Throne Room, the White Dining Room, and Peter's Oak Study. Lower Gardens Tour Next, descend into the Lower Gardens, a 300-acre (121-hectare) fountain park with a number of pavilions and palaces overlooking the Gulf of Finland. The park comprises about 150 fountains and four cascades that include the Grand Cascade, the largest fountain ensemble in the world and the highlight of the grounds. Following your visit, board your coach for the 30- minute transfer to the restaurant Summer Palace located half way to St. Petersburg in Strelna. Lunch at the Summer Palace restaurant is a nice continuation to your tour to Peterhof. After lunch, board the coach for a 30-minute transfer to the city centre and continue exploring the splendid art, architecture and beauty of the Russian Orthodox churches of St. Petersburg. Your first stop in the city will be a visit to St. Isaac's Square, which is dominated by the expansive St. Isaac's Cathedral. St. Isaac's Cathedral The opulent interior of this spectacular cathedral spans 43,000 square feet (4,000 square metres), and is filled with hundreds of impressive 19th-century works of art. The cathedral took 40 years to construct, and nearly 900 pounds (409 kilos) of pure gold were used to gild the interior and dome, which is visible approximately 25 miles (40 kilometres) away in good weather. The cathedral features interior walls faced with 14 different kinds of marble, and three 20-tonne (18,143-kilo) oak and bronze doors adorned with carved reliefs. Next re-board your coach for the visit to Peter & Paul Fortress. Peter and Paul Cathedral Your final stop is at the Peter and Paul Cathedral, which stands in the heart of the Peter and Paul Fortress. Designed and built between 1712 and 1733, it was designed by Peter the Great, who also decreed it to be the tallest structure in the city. After his death in 1725, the cathedral became the burial place of subsequent tsars. Following your visit, re-board your coach for the approximate 30-minute return drive to the hotel or pier.
TOUR 15: NIGHT OF RUSSIAN BALLET (ALEXANDRINSKY THEATRE) 3,5 hours 100 pax Discover why St. Petersburg is renowned as the Mecca of ballet and opera during this performance at the Alexandrinsky Theatre (or similar***). The Alexandrinsky Theatre is one of the oldest and largest national Russian theatres. It was founded on 30 August 1756 by a Senate decree signed by Elizabeth the Great to perform Drama or Ballet performances. Since 1832, the theatre has occupied an Empire-style building designed by Carlo Rossi. It was built in 1828-1832 on Alexandrinsky Square (now Ostrovsky Square), which is located directly on Nevsky Prospekt between the National Russian Library and Anichkov Palace. The theatre and the square were named after one of the Russian Empresses Alexandra Feodorovna. The building is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Historic Centre of Saint Petersburg and Related Groups of Monuments. On 30 August 2006 the theatre was reopened after reconstruction. The premières of numerous Russian ballet dancers performed on the stage of the Alexandrinsky Theatre. Today it is the theatre where the Ballet performances created by Russian famous ballet master Leonid Yakobson are performed. Take this opportunity to experience the wonderful theatrical world of St. Petersburg. Few cities in the world can boast such an incredible cultural heritage. Tonight as you arrive at the theatre, you are escorted to your seats. Soon the curtain will go up and you will enjoy one of the greatest romantic ballets of all times. The repertoire of St. Petersburg theatres consists mostly of world recognized outstanding ballets like Swan Lake, Nutcracker, Giselle or Sleeping Beauty. All these ballets have enjoyed an enduring popularity for over a century and can be found in the repertoire of virtually every classical ballet company in the world. The ballet performance scheduled for your evening at the Alexandrinsky Theatre could be any classical ballet as Swan Lake, Gisele or Nutcracker.. Champagne and mineral water are served during the intermission.
TOUR 16: VISIT TO FABERGE MUSEUM 3,5 hours 100 pax First Privately owned museum in Russia is Faberge Museum. Originally the Palace was built in 1790 for one of the Russian noble family. Later on in 1846 the Palace was commissioned by count Shuvalov and since that time till nowadays is known as Shuvalovsky Palace. In November last year after 7 year restoration period the Palace became the first privately owned museum in Russia that housed the largest collection of Faberge items in the world. Here on display one can see the unique collection of semiprecious jewelry masterpieces such as world famous Faberge eggs, amazing porcelain dinning sets and other masterpieces ever designed in Faberge workshops. Within the stately halls of the renovated Shuvalov Palace on the banks of the Fontanka river, Russia s first Faberge Museum has been established by The Link of Times cultural and historical foundation. Founded in 2004 by Russian businessman Viktor Vekselberg, the foundation engages in projects related to the return of lost objects of cultural and historical significance to Russia. The most remarkable step the foundation has taken so far is the sensational acquisition by Vekselberg of the work by Carl Faberge (1846-1920), the Russian court jeweler. Until 2004, the exceptional collection belonged to the heirs of the American newspaper magnate Malcolm Forbes, who for more than half a century collected the royal jewels. As a result of the Vekselberg acquisition, the legendary Forbes collection was saved from being broken up and then repatriated. It is this collection that has now become the nucleus of the display currently on view at the Shuvalov Palace, which was restored by the foundation for the purpose of housing the precious exhibits. The exhibition includes 4,000 works of decorative and fine art: Gold and silver jewelry, painting, porcelain and bronze. The collection, which took decades to assemble and continues to grow, is presented for the first time in the new Faberge Museum on Fontanka which, during the Soviet period, housed the Museum of Daily Life and then the House of Friendship and Peace.
TOUR 17: SPLENDID ST.PETERSBURG 3,5 hours Indulge your senses with the splendid beauty and architecture of St. Petersburg during this delightful cruise along the Moika and Neva rivers, and a sightseeing tour of the city via coach. Moika and Neva River Cruise Depart the pier for the brief drive to the boat pier, then embark your boat for a cruise along the Moika River. Along the way, your guide points out the exquisite palaces, cathedrals and landmarks along the Moika and Neva rivers. Sights to be seen include the Yusupov Palace, St. Isaac Cathedral, Stroganov Palace, Peter and Paul Fortress, Marble Palace, Summer Gardens, Aurora Cruiser, and the Summer Palace of Peter the Great, among others. After your cruise, re-board your coach for a sightseeing tour of St. Petersburg. Panoramic Look at St. Petersburg Your tour begins with a photo stop at St. Isaac's Square, which is dominated by the majestic Saint Isaac Cathedral. From here, pass the Palace Square. The main square of the city, it features the Baroque Winter Palace. Next, drive across the Neva River and view the Spit of Vasilievsky Island, Peter and Paul Fortress and Cathedral, and the Artillery Museum. After a photo stop at the Aurora Cruiser, pass by the renowned Church of Resurrection on the Spilled Blood enroute to Nevsky Prospect. St. Petersburg's and Russia's most famous street and shopping area, it is lined with magnificent palaces, churches and theatrical buildings. Following your visit, drive back to the pier, passing by the picturesque Decembrists Square enroute.
Incoming Travel Agency & DMC Fremad Russia - Petersburg was founded in 1993 and today it is one of the bigest, the most respected and relaible Travel agencies. General Director of "Fremad Russia : Ropotova Larisa FREMAD RUSSIA" today has: Office in St. Petersburg; Office in Moscow More than 30 high-qualified employees A wide range of tourist services Approval and partnership of more than 350 Russian and foreign partners OUR SERVICES: Accommodation in hotels of different classes from 2 * to 5 * in St. Petersburg, Moscow and other Russian cities; Wide choice of excursions, itineraries and special interest tours; Organizing of business events (conferences, seminars, exhibitions), State and corporate visits; Visa support Own reservation and puchasing system of flight and train tickets; WE PROVIDED LAND SERVICES AND SERVED: Delegation of the Government of Hong Kong Delegation of the Government of South Africa The Conference NHT "Global Cosmetic" Days of Finland in St. Petersburg 5 * cruise ship «Silver Sea» Russian Ice Hockey Championship International Congress "Asthma" Moscow International Marathon MEMBERSHIP IN PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS: IATA - The International Air Transport Association PCT - Russian Union of Travel Industry Tourist Association "World without Borders" WOI - World of Incentive WATA - The World Association of Travel Agencies PLEASE KINDLY NOTE: All tours and rates given in this offer are subject to availability. We reserve the right to revise the costing during large events and in case of increases in tax, service charges, fuel costs, currency exchange rate and other such events beyond our control. WEB: www.russia-incentive.com; www.fremad-russia.com