With three decades of experience guiding travelers through Western Russia, the team at MIR Corporation offers expertly crafted insider itineraries. The aptly named Insider’s Russia journey begins in Moscow with visits to some of the city’s most spectacular metro stations, followed by a tour of the Cathedral of Christ the Savior beneath its gleaming dome and a tasting of Cristall vodka, one of Russia’s best-known brands. Guests explore the historic Kitay-gorod neighborhood, walk through the grand halls of Moscow State University, and tour the 800-year-old Kremlin before strolling across Red Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the Moscow portion of the trip, participants attend a performance at one of the city’s renowned theaters and are welcomed into a local family’s home for an authentic dinner.
The second half of the itinerary continues in St. Petersburg, reached by a comfortable high-speed train. A walk along the bustling Nevsky Prospekt is a highlight, as is the climb to the top of St. Isaac’s Cathedral for panoramic views. Travelers enjoy a champagne cruise along a peaceful canal, attend an engaging lecture on the city’s social and political history, and participate in a ballet master class. The program also includes an evening theater performance and a visit to Peter the Great’s imperial dacha at Peterhof, with its famous gardens and fountains. At the Peter and Paul Fortress, the city’s oldest landmark, guests can explore a tucked-away passageway that reveals layers of history. The tour features an extensive collection of Russian art at the Russian Museum, and before departure travelers share a home-cooked meal at a privately owned dacha to experience everyday Russian hospitality. Scheduled tour dates are Sept. 15–25, with pricing starting at $5,095 per person.