10 day itinerary for Russia

Itinerary

A 10-day luxury family holiday in Russia, especially with older teenage children who appreciate ballet, sounds like a fantastic adventure! Let’s dive into an itinerary that balances culture, luxury, and some fun activities.

## Day 1: Arrival in Moscow

• Morning: Arrive at Sheremetyevo International Airport. Arrange for a private transfer to your luxury hotel, such as the Four Seasons or the Ritz-Carlton.
• Afternoon: After settling in, enjoy a leisurely lunch at the hotel’s fine dining restaurant.
• Evening: Take a stroll through Red Square and admire the stunning St. Basil's Cathedral.
• Dinner: Dine at Café Pushkin, a luxurious restaurant that offers a taste of Russian cuisine in a beautiful setting.

## Day 2: Explore Moscow

• Morning: Visit the Kremlin and the Armory Chamber. Book a private guided tour to skip the lines and get insider knowledge.
• Afternoon: Head to the Bolshoi Theatre for a backstage tour. If possible, book tickets for a ballet performance later in the week!
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at White Rabbit, known for its stunning views and modern Russian cuisine.

## Day 3: Art and Culture

• Morning: Visit the Tretyakov Gallery to see an impressive collection of Russian art.
• Afternoon: Explore Gorky Park, where you can rent bikes or enjoy a picnic.
• Evening: Attend a ballet performance at the Bolshoi Theatre. Make sure to dress up for this elegant evening!

## Day 4: Day Trip to Sergiev Posad

• Morning: Take a private car to Sergiev Posad, home to the stunning Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at a local café and explore the charming town.
• Evening: Return to Moscow and have a relaxed dinner at your hotel.

## Day 5: Travel to St. Petersburg

• Morning: Take a high-speed Sapsan train to St. Petersburg (about 4 hours). Enjoy the scenic views along the way.
• Afternoon: Check into a luxury hotel like the Belmond Grand Hotel Europe. Have lunch at the hotel.
• Evening: Take a leisurely evening cruise on the Neva River to see the city’s beautiful architecture illuminated at night.

## Day 6: Discover St. Petersburg

• Morning: Visit the Hermitage Museum. A private guided tour will help you navigate this vast collection.
• Afternoon: Explore the Peter and Paul Fortress and enjoy lunch at a nearby café.
• Evening: Attend a ballet performance at the Mariinsky Theatre. Book your tickets in advance for the best seats!

## Day 7: Palaces and Gardens

• Morning: Take a private tour to Peterhof Palace, known for its stunning gardens and fountains.
• Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at a café in the palace grounds and then explore the gardens.
• Evening: Return to St. Petersburg and have dinner at the famous Russian restaurant, Palkin.

## Day 8: Culture and Shopping

• Morning: Visit the Russian Museum to see more incredible art.
• Afternoon: Spend some time shopping on Nevsky Prospekt, where you can find luxury boutiques and local crafts.
• Evening: Enjoy a family dinner at a trendy restaurant like Ginza Project, which offers a modern twist on Russian cuisine.

## Day 9: Day Trip to Pushkin

• Morning: Take a private car to Tsarskoye Selo (Pushkin) to visit Catherine Palace and its stunning Amber Room.
• Afternoon: Explore the beautiful gardens and have lunch at a local café.
• Evening: Return to St. Petersburg and enjoy a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city.

## Day 10: Departure

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel. If time allows, take a final stroll along the canals or visit a local market for souvenirs.
• Afternoon: Private transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Luxury Transport: Consider hiring a private driver for convenience and comfort.
• Dining Reservations: Make reservations in advance for popular restaurants and performances.
• Cultural Etiquette: Familiarize yourself with local customs, especially when attending performances.

This itinerary balances cultural experiences with leisure, ensuring that everyone in the family has a memorable time. Enjoy your luxurious Russian adventure! 🌟