St. Petersburg cruise will take your breath away...
A St. Petersburg cruise will take you to Russia's second largest city, and its most magical. It’s home to the most majestic architecture that this huge country has to offer, and has a feast of attractive buildings that will take your breath away.
History was made in this captivating city, and as you tour its streets and view its wonders, you’ll be awed by what you see. A must-see is the Winter Palace, and be sure to visit the Church of Our Savior on Spilled Blood – truly an iconic sight in this alluring destination. Kazan Cathedral is another gem.
You need plenty of time to see the exquisite sights of St Petersburg, which is why cruises tend to include an overnight stay, allowing 2 full days and an evening in which to experience everything it has to offer.
Purchasing a 2 day excursion pack is the best way to make the most of your time in this enchanting city. Other places on your Travel To-Do list should include The Hermitage, Peter & Paul Cathedral, St Isaac's Cathedral, The Palace of Catherine and Peterhof Park. For an extra-special treat, have dinner and take in a Russian Ballet performance.
Day 1
You will be met from your cruise ship and taken to your air conditioned transport for the start of your full day city tour, which includes a visit to “The Hermitage,” classed as one of the world's oldest and best museums. It houses art and paintings by Da Vinci, Rafael, Rembrandt, Monet and Renoir, among others. The Winter Palace is stunningly beautiful, with decorative ceilings, beautifully tiled floors and intricate staircases.
Then you will be taken to Peter and Paul Cathedral, the highest structural building in its day. You’ll find the tombs of the past Tsars and Tsarinas here, including Peter and Catherine the Great.
The tour will then lead you to St Isaac's Cathedral, which has one of the largest gold domes in the world, visible across the city’s skyline.
Day 2
You will be again met from your cruise ship and taken by air conditioned transport to
Catherine's Palace, an opulent architectural wonder designed by Rastrelli. Discover the riche within as you explore sections such as the White Vestibule, the Amber Room, The Portrait Hall, the Grand Hall and the Crimson Pilaster Room.
Next stop on your tour to another former summer Imperial Residence. Peterhof Park is set in magnificent gardens dotted with countless water fountains, charming pavilions and summer houses. The park was almost completely destroyed by the Nazis in World War II, but has been restored to its full splendour.
(Please note that if you wish to explore St Petersburg on your own, then it is necessary to obtain a visa. However, should you book an escorted excursion, then your visa will be included.)
To discover more about cruising to Russia, contact our cruise experts on freephone 0808 168 6211. #LoveCruise
- 25th September 2014
- Helen McHarg