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Day 1 – Helsinki to St. Petersburg
After breakfast at the Hilton Airport Hotel in Helsinki, you’ll be chauffeured to the rail station to board the modern, high-speed Allegro Train. Enjoy the passing scenery from your upgraded Comfort Seat accommodations as you journey eastward along the northern shores of the Gulf of Finland. It’s a 2.5-hour journey to St. Petersburg, where you’ll be warmly greeted on arrival by our engaging Russian guide and escorted by private car to your choice of city-center hotel: The deluxe Astoria Hotel or the luxurious Belmond Grand Europe. Meals B
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Day 2 – Discover St. Petersburg #WHS# + The Hermitage
Your private car, driver and guide will be waiting this morning to show you the historic and architectural highlights of the city founded by Peter the Great in 1703. Focusing on the many landmarks that distinguish St. Petersburg, this morning’s sightseeing includes St. Isaac’s Square, dominated by the enormous gilded dome of the eponymous Cathedral, and the Bronze Horseman – an impressive statue of Peter the Great that was commissioned by Catherine the Great. You’ll also drive along the elegant Nevsky Prospekt and see other notable highlights including St. Nicholas Church and the colorful Church of our Savior on the Spilled Blood - built on the spot where Emperor Alexander II was assassinated in 1881.
In the afternoon, your private tour of the Hermitage Museum includes the General Staff Building. Built between 1820 and 1830 to house vital functions of the Russian Empire, this iconic structure encompasses two crescent-shaped buildings united by a triumphal arch that celebrates Russia’s victory in the War of 1812. Here in the Eastern Wing of the General Staff Building, you’ll discover the Hermitage’s outstanding collection of European Impressionist art. Exploring other sections and buildings of the Museum including the Winter Palace, you’ll see some of the most renowned masterpieces that comprise the Hermitage’s vast collection of more than 3 million items! After sightseeing, you’ll be escorted back to your hotel where the evening is yours to enjoy as you wish. Of course, our in-the-know resident guide will be happy to provide personal recommendations and assistance for dining and cultural entertainment. Meals B
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Day 3 – At Leisure in St. Petersburg
This entire day is yours to relax, enjoy and explore at your own pace. If you prefer additional private sightseeing, we can arrange guided tours including the Yusupov Palace, Peter and Paul Fortress, Erarta Museum of Contemporary Art - or even an excursion to Tsarskoye Selo or The Peterhof – the splendid summer retreat built by Peter the Great in 1710. Meals B
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Day 4 – Depart St. Petersburg
Your private car and driver will take you to the airport today for your onward journey. Meals B