St Petersburg's gilded opulence is best explored with an expert guide on hand to show you the sights. From your splendid hotel in Russia's cultural heart, you'll venture out each day for included tours of the highlights. Circle the city on a panoramic orientation tour, wander among the world's greatest artworks at the Hermitage Museum and revel in the sheer lavishness of Catherine's Summer Palace. This is a world of domed towers and glittering stained glass windows, of iconic architecture and classical murals. Take it all in, returning to your magnificent hotel for indulgent spa treatments, Russian-style afternoon teas and gourmet dining, topped off with the finest Russian vodka. With private chauffeur transfers at either end, this is the ultimate in luxury travel.
Enjoy VIP lounge access before your flight to St Petersburg. On arrival, another private driver will collect you – simply look for your name in the arrivals hall – and bring you to your hotel. In the centre of the city's cultural heart, it's a gilded masterpiece of resplendent marble, grand ceilings and breathtaking stained glass. It's also steeped in history – amid the plush fabrics and contemporary flourishes are a host of artefacts recalling a bygone era of emperors and tsars. You can even upgrade to Dostoevsky’s favoured corner suite. Tonight, perhaps dine at L'Europe restaurant – the oldest continually-serving restaurant in Russia – or enjoy some modern Asian-fusion delicacies in the uber-stylish Azia.
Stay: Belmond Grand Hotel Europe, St Petersburg (Deluxe)
Belmond Grand Hotel Europe
Belmond Grand Hotel Europe
After breakfast, an English-speaking guide will begin your panoramic orientation tour of the city. See the world-renowned Hermitage Museum, located in the Winter Palace, and pass the famous Nevsky Prospect and St Isaac’s cathedral. An included visit to Peter and Paul Fortress, which guards the city of St Petersburg, reveals its origins in the Russian-Swedish war and its history as a political prison for the likes of Prince Alexei, Princess Tarakanova, and the writer Radischev. You will also visit the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, St Petersburg’s most elaborate church, complete with five colourful domes and a classic Russian Orthodox Exterior. Back at the hotel, unwind with a spa treatment at the CARITA Beauty Salon, or visit the shops – don't miss Belmond Grand Hotel Europe’s exquisite chocolate, made in-house from a rare blend of cocoa beans.
Stay: Belmond Grand Hotel Europe, St Petersburg (Deluxe)
Breakfast included
St Petersburg
After breakfast, your guide will bring you the world-famous Hermitage Museum. Spectacular both outside and in, it occupies a large complex of six historic buildings along the Palace Embankment, including the magnificent Winter Palace of former Russian emperors. A guided tour reveals a vast collection of art – over 2.7 million items – including works by Leonard Da Vinci, Raphael, Rembrandt and Rodin. An included visit to the General Staff building, home to the French impressionist collection, is a special end to the day. Return to your hotel for dinner and perhaps a nightcap in the Caviar Bar and Restaurant – they serve caviar atop delicate blinis, along with chilled Russian vodka and classic full course meals.
Stay: Belmond Grand Hotel Europe, St Petersburg (Deluxe)
Breakfast included
Hermitage Museum
After another delicious breakfast, your guide will meet you for a visit to one of St Petersburg’s most prized buildings. Catherine’s Summer Palace can be found in Pushkin – formerly Tsarskoye Selo – some 30 kilometres south of St. Petersburg. Construction began in 1717, and by the middle of 18th century, it became the official royal residence. Its walls sparkle with gold, its floors contain precious woods, and its ceilings are adorned with beautiful murals. The palace is also famous for the ‘Amber Room’, now completely restored to its former glory. Then, if you have some free time this afternoon, perhaps explore more of the city on foot, wandering along the river or through one of the many manicured parks and gardens. Back at the hotel, you might like to take afternoon tea in the Cipriani Café, Russian-style.
Stay: Belmond Grand Hotel Europe, St Petersburg (Deluxe)
Breakfast included
Catherine's Summer Palace
After a final breakfast surrounded by the splendour of your grandiose hotel, you'll be transferred to the airport for your flight home.
Breakfast included
"This is the perfect city-break, taking in the splendour of one of Russia's most iconic cities on daily included tours with the help of an expert guide. The Belmond Grand Hotel Europe is also a highlight – it's was even a favourite of Dostoevsky."
Andy Austen
Destination Specialist