Russia, Warsaw & The Baltic States - Small Group, 2022 Small Group

Day 1: Arrive Warsaw

On arrival at Warsaw airport, transfers depart for your hotel at 10:30, 12:30 and 15:30. Relax and settle in before joining your Travel Director at 18:00.Your Welcome Dinner is at Restaurant Zapiecek, an authentic local establishment full of Polish charm that serves traditional meals, accompanied with wine.

Day 2: Exploring the Proud Polish Capital of Warsaw

A Local Expert will show you how well the Polish capital was restored after almost complete obliteration during World War II. This incredible restoration can be credited to the amazing detail of Canaletto's paintings! Pass the tiered Palace of Culture and stroll through Łazienki Park to the Chopin Memorial. Take a moment to reflect at the Monument to Ghetto Heroes, built in 1948 to commemorate the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising of 1943. Then walk to the Market Square in the Old Town. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit the University Botanic Gardens with a biologist. The garden's main function is the protection of biological diversity and the conservation of endangered Polish wild species. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Don't miss the chance to visit Wilanow Palace, the residence of Polish King Sobieski, known as Victor of Vienna, or perhaps attend an exclusive private recital of Chopin music by a celebrated Polish pianist?

Day 3: Vilnius, Venerable Capital of Lithuania

Pass Augustów and Suwalki during your scenic journey through Masuria, a region rich in lakes and vast forests. Cross into Lithuania and continue to the capital city of Vilnius. See the Baroque Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, the neoclassical cathedral and the charming Old Town.

Day 4: Vilnius and the Castle of Trakai

Walk along the streets of bohemian Užupis, a Vilnius neighbourhood that proclaimed itself a republic in 2002. A member of the government introduces you to its quirky history and artistic flair. A highlight of your travels will be a visit to the fortified island castle of Trakai. Originally built in the 15th century and now restored to all its glory, this red-brick castle is located on an island in Lake Galvė. Choose from a hand-picked selection of local restaurants for your Dine-Around Evening.

Day 5: The Art Nouveau Nirvana of Riga

Head north to visit the unusual Votive Hill of Crosses near Siauliai, the symbol of resistance against the Soviet occupation.Continue your journey to the Latvian capital of Riga, a melange of Teutonic-inspired spires, stylish cocktail lounges and some of the world’s most remarkable art nouveau architecture.

Day 6: Riga and onto Tallinn

Explore Riga's Old Town with your Local Expert, including a visit to the old aircraft hangars that now house the Riga Central Market, one of the largest in Eastern Europe. Enjoy the vibrant colours and flavours when sampling some of the local delicacies as you wander through the maze of stalls.Your travels continue along the shores of the Gulf of Riga and across the Estonian border to reach Tallinn. Hailed by travel aficionados as the new Prague, Tallinn is a lively city, where history and modern culture merge. From its brightly coloured architecture to its quirky art scenes, Tallinn is made for the curious and creative.

Day 7: Surrender to the Magic of Tallinn Relaxed Start

Explore Tallinn with Insight Choice. Choose a scenic walking tour of the city with your Local Expert, complete with panoramic views. Alternatively, take a stroll through the fairy-tale Old Town to discover Estonian artisans. Enjoy free time to browse Tallinn’s shops, famous for fine amber and silver jewellery. Join your travelling companions at a local restaurant for a freshly prepared meal, rich with traditional flavours and accompanied by wine.

Day 8: St Petersburg: To Russia with Love

Head east to the town of Narva, dominated by the mighty Hermannsburg Fortress. Cross the River Narva, which forms the Russian border, and continue to St. Petersburg, founded by Peter the Great in 1703.For your first meal in Russia, enjoy a friendly dinner with wine at a local restaurant.

Day 9: St.Petersburg Sightseeing

Morning sightseeing with your Local Expert includes views of St. Isaac's Cathedral, the fortress of St. Peter and Paul and Decembrists' Square. Travel along Nevsky Prospekt for views of the great Cathedral of Kazan and the iconic, onion-domed Church of Our Savior on Spilled Blood.The rest of the day is yours to explore. Perhaps join an Optional Experience to the small town of Tsarskoe Selo, now called Pushkin, and visit the beautiful Catherine Palace? Or, if you’d prefer to relax, head back to your hotel where you can make the most of its luxury facilities.

Day 10: Petrodvorets by Hydrofoil Relaxed Start

Cruise by hydrofoil along the Baltic shore to Peter the Great’s summer residence of Petrodvorets. For over 200 years it was used for official ceremonies, lavish feasts and formal receptions. Explore the perfectly manicured gardens and see the cascading fountains. Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the world-famous Alexandrinsky Theatre with a member of the production team. Visit the royal box and see an exhibition of authentic costumes. Later you are at leisure, or perhaps visit the former residence of the Yusupov family and the scene of Rasputin's murder?

Day 11: The Hermitage Museum Relaxed Start

Located in the Winter Palace, the Hermitage is one of the world’s greatest museums. Marvel at this fabulous collection of paintings and ornaments, ranging from Egyptian carvings to impressionist masterpieces.The rest of the day is at your leisure to explore, shop or relax.

Day 12: High-Speed Sapsan Train to Moscow Relaxed Start

Enjoy a relaxed start in the morning, or perhaps visit the former residence of the Yusupov family and the scene of Rasputin's murder? Later, board your high speed Sapsan train and relax in modern luxury and comfort as you swoop to Moscow in just a few hours. On arrival in this fascinating city, you are transferred to your hotel for a leisurely three-night stay.

Day 13: Moscow, a Russian Revelation Relaxed Start

Begin your exploration of the Russian capital with a Local Expert. Start in Red Square, lined by Moscow's landmark buildings. At one end rises the onion-shaped domes of St. Basil's Cathedral, in front of the Kremlin stands Lenin's Mausoleum, while on the opposite side, the grand GUM department store offers a variety of glamorous goods. Explore Moscow with Insight Choice. Choose to visit an ornate metro station with your Local Expert or alternatively, take a stroll through the popular Zaryadye Park and enjoy great views of your surroundings.   In your free time, why not witness the crown jewels and Fabergé Egg collection of the Imperial Russian Family?

Day 14: Moscow and The Kremlin Relaxed Start

In the morning you are at leisure to relax or explore the Russian capital as you wish. Perhaps visit the Borodino Panorama Exhibition or take an Optional Experience to the renowned centre of ancient Russian art and architecture, Zagorsk? In the afternoon, walk within the walls of the Kremlin Fortress to visit one of the cathedrals. Later, enjoy delicious food, great wine and wonderful company as you toast to your travels during your Celebration Dinner.

Day 15: Farewell Moscow

Departure transfers will arrive at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo Airport at 05:00, 08:00 and 11:00 and at Moscow’s Domodedovo Airport at 05:00, 10:00 and 13:00.