3 day itinerary for Russia

Itinerary

A luxury family holiday in Russia sounds like an incredible adventure, especially with older teenage children. Let’s dive into a fabulous 3-day itinerary that balances culture, history, and a bit of fun!

## Day 1: Moscow – The Heart of Russia

Morning:

• Breakfast at Café Pushkin: Start your day with a sumptuous breakfast at this iconic restaurant, known for its opulent decor and traditional Russian cuisine. Try the blini (Russian pancakes) and caviar for a true taste of luxury!
• Red Square & The Kremlin: After breakfast, take a guided tour of Red Square, where you can marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral with its colorful onion domes. Then, head to the Kremlin, the historic fortified complex that houses the President of Russia. Don’t miss the Armory Chamber, where you can see the royal treasures.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at White Rabbit: Enjoy a luxurious lunch at this award-winning restaurant, which offers stunning views of the city. The menu features modern Russian cuisine with a twist.
• Bolshoi Theatre Tour: After lunch, take a guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre. If your family enjoys performing arts, consider booking tickets for a ballet or opera performance in the evening!

Evening:

• Dinner Cruise on the Moskva River: End your day with a dinner cruise. Enjoy a gourmet meal while taking in the beautiful illuminated skyline of Moscow. It’s a fantastic way to relax and bond as a family.

## Day 2: St. Petersburg – The Cultural Capital

Morning:

• Travel to St. Petersburg: Take a high-speed train (Sapsan) to St. Petersburg. The journey takes about 4 hours, and you can enjoy the scenic views along the way.
• Breakfast at the Train: Pack a luxurious breakfast to enjoy on the train, or grab something from the onboard café.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at The Idiot Restaurant: Once you arrive, head to The Idiot, a charming restaurant inspired by Dostoevsky’s novel. The atmosphere is cozy, and the food is delightful.
• The Hermitage Museum: Spend the afternoon exploring the Hermitage, one of the largest and oldest museums in the world. With its stunning art collections and opulent architecture, it’s a must-see. Consider hiring a private guide to make the experience more engaging for your teens.

Evening:

• Dinner at The Russian Vodka Room No. 1: Experience authentic Russian cuisine paired with a vast selection of vodkas. The atmosphere is lively, and the food is exquisite.
• Evening Walk Along the Neva River: After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the Neva River. The bridges and palaces lit up at night create a magical ambiance.

## Day 3: St. Petersburg – Royal Splendor

Morning:

• Breakfast at your Hotel: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your luxury hotel. Many high-end hotels in St. Petersburg offer fantastic breakfast spreads.
• Visit Peterhof Palace: Take a private car to Peterhof, known as the “Russian Versailles.” Explore the stunning gardens and fountains. The Grand Cascade is particularly impressive!

Afternoon:

• Lunch at the Peterhof Café: Enjoy a light lunch at a café in the palace grounds, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
• Catherine Palace in Tsarskoye Selo: After lunch, head to the Catherine Palace, famous for its stunning Amber Room. The opulence of the palace will leave your family in awe!

Evening:

• Dinner at The Grand Hotel Europe: Return to St. Petersburg and dine at this historic hotel’s restaurant. The ambiance is elegant, and the menu features a mix of Russian and European dishes.
• Evening at the Mariinsky Theatre: If your family enjoys the arts, consider catching a ballet or opera performance at the Mariinsky Theatre. It’s a fantastic way to end your luxurious Russian holiday!

Tips for Your Trip:

• Transportation: Consider hiring a private driver for convenience and comfort, especially when traveling between attractions.
• Luxury Accommodations: Look for high-end hotels like The Ritz-Carlton in Moscow and The Belmond Grand Hotel Europe in St. Petersburg for a luxurious stay.
• Cultural Etiquette: Teach your teens a few basic Russian phrases; locals appreciate the effort!

I hope this itinerary excites you and your family! Russia is a land of rich history and culture, and you’re sure to create unforgettable memories together. Enjoy your trip!