Samaya Holidays

RUSSIA 7 NIGHTS 8 DAYS


Russia, the largest country in the world, offers a diverse and captivating tourism experience, blending rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking natural landscapes. From the iconic Red Square and the grandeur of the Kremlin in Moscow to the cultural treasures of Saint Petersburg, including the Hermitage Museum and the opulent palaces of the Romanovs, Russia's cities are a testament to its imperial past and artistic heritage. The country's vast wilderness, featuring the serene beauty of Lake Baikal, the dramatic peaks of the Caucasus Mountains, and the expansive Siberian taiga, beckons adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors can explore unique historical sites like the Golden Ring cities, the Tatar heritage in Kazan, and the cosmonaut legacy at the Baikonur Cosmodrome. Russia's well-preserved traditions, vibrant festivals, and warm hospitality offer tourists an enriching and unforgettable journey through a land of contrasts and cultural depth.

Highlights
Outline Itinerary
Day 1 : ARRIVAL IN MOSCOW
Day 2 : FULL DAY TOUR IN MOSCOW
Day 3 : MOSCOW TO KAZAN
Day 4 : FULL DAY EXPLORATION IN KAZAN
Day 5 : KAZAN TO YEKATERINBURG
Day 6 : FULL DAY SIGHTSEEING IN YEKATERINBURG
Day 7 : LEISURE DAY AND SHOPPING
Day 8 : DEPARTURE FROM YEKATERINBURG

Detailed Itinerary
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN MOSCOW
Arrive in Moscow, you will be greeted by a representative at the airport. Transfer to the hotel for check-in. After settling in, take some time to relax and explore the vicinity of the hotel. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a traditional Russian restaurant to get a taste of authentic Russian cuisine. Overnight stay at Hotel.

DAY 2: FULL DAY TOUR IN MOSCOW
After breakfast, start the day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a full-day tour of Moscow. Begin with a visit to Red Square, the heart of Moscow, where you will see the iconic St. Basil's Cathedral with its colorful, onion-shaped domes. Next, explore the Kremlin, the historic fortress that has been the seat of Russian power for centuries. Tour its cathedrals, the Armoury Museum, and the Tsar Bell and Tsar Cannon. Afterward, walk through Alexander Garden, where you can witness the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Overnight stay at Hotel. Continue to the Novodevichy Convent, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful architecture and tranquil surroundings. Wrap up the day with a visit to the Moscow Metro, where you will marvel at the stunning design and artwork of its stations. Return to the hotel for a relaxing evening or explore the city’s vibrant nightlife. Overnight stay at Hotel.

DAY 3: MOSCOW TO KAZAN
Start the day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel in Moscow, enjoying a variety of local and international dishes. After breakfast, you will check out from the hotel and be greeted by a representative who will assist with the transfer to the train station. Board the high-speed Sapsan train for a comfortable journey to Kazan, which takes around 8 hours. During the journey, you can relax, enjoy scenic views, and perhaps grab a snack or lunch from the train’s dining car. Upon arrival in Kazan, you will be met by a local guide who will assist with the transfer to the hotel. After check-in, enjoy a leisurely evening exploring the surroundings or dining at a local restaurant. Overnight stay at Hotel.

DAY 4: FULL DAY EXPLORATION IN KAZAN
Begin the day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, featuring a selection of local Tatar specialties. After breakfast, embark on a full-day guided tour of Kazan, a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and architectural splendor. The tour will include visits to the Kazan Kremlin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can explore the Qol Sharif Mosque and the Annunciation Cathedral. Next, head to the vibrant Bauman Street, a pedestrian area filled with shops, cafes, and historical buildings. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Tatar cuisine. In the afternoon, visit the Temple of All Religions, a unique architectural complex, and the Soviet Lifestyle Museum, which offers a glimpse into Soviet-era life. Return to the hotel in the evening for some relaxation or optional activities. Overnight stay at Hotel.

DAY 5: KAZAN TO YEKATERINBURG
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel in Kazan before checking out. Your representative will assist with the transfer to the train station for the journey to Yekaterinburg. The train ride will take approximately 12 hours or choose the flight, providing ample time to relax and enjoy the passing landscapes. You can take advantage of the dining car for lunch and dinner. Upon arrival in Yekaterinburg, you will be greeted by a local guide who will facilitate your transfer to the hotel. After check-in, you can unwind or take a brief evening stroll to get acquainted with the new city. Overnight stay at Hotel.

DAY 6: FULL DAY SIGHTSEEING IN YEKATERINBURG
Start the day with a satisfying breakfast at the hotel. Afterward, embark on a full-day tour of Yekaterinburg, a city steeped in history and culture. Begin with a visit to the Church on the Blood, built on the site where the Romanov family was executed. Next, explore the Historical Square, where the city was founded. Enjoy a traditional Russian lunch at a local restaurant before continuing the tour to the Yekaterinburg Museum of Fine Arts, home to a vast collection of Russian icons and Ural gemstones. In the afternoon, visit the Keyboard Monument and the Yekaterinburg Zoo. End the day with a leisurely walk along the Iset River embankment before returning to the hotel. Overnight stay at Hotel.

DAY 7: LEISURE DAY AND SHOPPING
After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a day at your own pace. You can explore Yekaterinburg’s shopping districts, including the Greenwich Shopping Center and the Passage Shopping Gallery, where you can find a variety of local and international brands. For a more cultural experience, visit the local markets such as the Yekaterinburg Central Market, where you can buy traditional Russian crafts, souvenirs, and local delicacies. Take time to relax at one of the city’s many cafes or parks. This day is perfect for unwinding and reflecting on your journey so far. You might also consider an optional spa treatment or a visit to a local banya (Russian sauna) to rejuvenate before the departure. Overnight stay at Hotel.

DAY 8: DEPARTURE FROM YEKATERINBURG
Enjoy the final breakfast at the hotel, savoring the last moments of trip. After breakfast, check out from the hotel. Depending on the flight schedule, you might have some free time for a last-minute stroll. A representative will assist with the transfer to the airport for your departure. As you head to the airport, take with you the memories of a rich and diverse journey through Russia’s cultural and historical landscapes.

Inclusions
  •   Roundtrip Airfare
  •   Visa Services
  •   7 Night Hotel accommodation as mentioned or similar on breakfast basis.
  •   Ground transportation in air-conditioned vehicle
  •   All services mentioned in the program
  •   English Speaking Guide
  •   5% Government Tourism Tax

Exclusions
  •   Any transport not mentioned in the itinerary
  •   Meals which are not mentioned in above itinerary
  •   Any other services not mentioned above
  •   Personal Expenses like Telephone, Fax, Internet, Laundry, etc.