Russian Federation Russia 6 Day Itinerary

Russian Federation (Russia) 6-Day Tourist Itinerary

(Markdown format used for readability)

Day 1: Moscow

  • Arrival at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo or Domodedovo Airport.
  • Check-in at a centrally located hotel (recommendations include Ritz Carlton, Hotel National, and Courtyard by Marriott).
  • Visit Red Square: Admire St. Basil’s Cathedral, Lenin’s Mausoleum, and the historic GUM department store.
  • Explore The Kremlin: The political heart of Russia houses cathedrals, museums, and stunning architecture.
  • Evening stroll along Bolshoy Moskvoretsky Bridge for a picturesque view of the cityscape.

Things to Know:

  • Russian language is widely spoken but many Muscovites speak English as well.
  • Taxis are relatively affordable and safe, but use established companies like Yandex Taxi or Gett.
  • Moscow’s metro system is extensive, efficient, and offers a glimpse of impressive Soviet architecture.

Day 2: Moscow

  • Morning visit to Tretyakov Gallery: Home to Russia’s finest collection of Orthodox icons and works by Russian artists.
  • Afternoon trip to Sokolniki Park or Gorky Park for leisure activities, food trucks, and events.
  • In the evening, enjoy a performance at Bolshoi Theatre or explore Moscow’s vibrant nightlife in districts like Kitai-Gorod, Chistye Prudy, and Krymsky Val.

Day 3: Saint Petersburg

  • Travel to Saint Petersburg by high-speed Sapsan train (approximately 4 hours).
  • Check-in at a centrally located hotel (recommendations include Belmond Grand Hotel Europe, Astoria, and Luxury Living apartments).
  • Visit Hermitage Museum: One of the world’s largest art museums with works from Rembrandt, da Vinci, and Matisse.
  • Explore Palace Square and Winter Palace.

Things to Know:

  • Saint Petersburg is more compact than Moscow but still has an extensive public transport network.
  • The city is famous for its beautiful canals and Baroque architecture.
  • Don’t miss the famous Night Bishop’s Bridge Lift, where several bridges across the Neva River open to let ships pass.

Day 4: Saint Petersburg

  • Day trip to Peterhof Palace: Known as the “Russian Versailles,” Peterhof is a stunning example of Baroque architecture and landscaping.
  • Alternatively, visit Catherine Palace and the Amber Room.
  • In the evening, enjoy a boat ride along the canals or explore Saint Petersburg’s vibrant nightlife.

Day 5: Return to Moscow

  • Travel back to Moscow by high-speed Sapsan train.
  • Spend the day exploring lesser-known attractions such as Zaryadie Park, Bunker 42, or Moscow Planetarium.
  • Visit a traditional Russian banya (bathhouse) for an authentic experience.

Day 6: Last Day in Moscow

  • Explore the Moscow Metro: Often considered one of the world’s most beautiful metro systems, it offers a glimpse into Soviet history and artistry.
  • Visit Arbat Street for souvenirs, street performances, and cafes.
  • Prepare for departure or plan your next destination.

Visa Requirements:

Transportation:

  • Domestic flights within Russia are affordable and efficient, with major carriers like Aeroflot, S7 Airlines, and Utair.
  • Long-distance trains are also a great way to travel between cities, offering scenic routes and comfortable accommodations.