Day Schedule

➤ Breakfast

➤ Guided Tour of Peterhof Grand palace and Lower park

➤ Optional tour to Catherine's palace in Pushkin

➤ Transfer to St. Petersburg

➤ Afternoon at leisure

Peterhof palace tour

Peterhof, often referred to as the "Russian Versailles," is a stunning example of imperial grandeur. Spanning over 400 hectares, the estate is home to magnificent gardens, pavilions, and thirty-one museums. Among its most striking features is the Grand Palace, which embodies the lavish opulence of the Russian Empire.

The Grand Palace, facing the Gulf of Finland, sits above the Grand Cascade and the Lower Park. It stretches nearly 300 yards along the upper terrace, offering breathtaking views. Originally designed by Peter the Great, the palace’s design and decoration evolved over the centuries, with notable contributions from the renowned Italian architect Bartolomeo Francesco Rastrelli. His work during the reign of Empress Elizabeth in the 18th century transformed the palace into a Baroque masterpiece. The interiors of the palace are famously adorned with gold, reflecting the grandeur of the Russian imperial court.

A walk through the Lower Park is a journey through beautifully landscaped gardens, pavilions, and elegant bridges. The park features a mix of classical garden styles, providing a tranquil and picturesque setting. Peterhof is particularly famous for its fountains, which are powered naturally by gravity, making it one of the most impressive fountain systems in the world. In summer, the estate is especially enchanting as the fountains come to life, offering a spectacular sight.

A visit to Peterhof is a must for those seeking to experience the splendor and history of Russia's royal past, with the Grand Palace standing as the golden centerpiece of this magnificent estate.

Catherine's Palace Tour

We will be happy to suggest optional tours in St. Petersburg. Pushkin, or Tsarskoye Selo - one of the most famous suburbs of St. Petersburg - is home to Catherine’s Palace, an extravagant display of Baroque-era opulence. Commissioned in 1717, the Palace has had many a transformation since its original imaginings. It’s most well-known for being the summer palace of Empress Elizabeth and Catherine the Great in the end of the XVIII century, now, it’s a must-see display of Russian architecture.

The Amber Room

The Amber Room, located in Catherine's Palace in Pushkin (Tsarskoye Selo), is one of Russia's most iconic and mysterious treasures. Known as the "Eighth Wonder of the World," this extraordinary chamber is renowned for its walls entirely covered in amber panels, intricately backed with gold leaf and mirrors. The intricate craftsmanship of the room, along with the warm glow of amber, created a breathtaking and opulent effect that dazzled visitors during its prime.

Its creation began in 1701 and was the product of an international collaboration, with the original design by German sculptor Andreas Schlüter. The room was gifted to Peter the Great by Frederick William I of Prussia in 1716 as a diplomatic gesture to strengthen the alliance between Prussia and Russia against Sweden.

Upon its arrival in Russia, the Amber Room was set up in the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg. In 1755, it was relocated to the Catherine Palace in Tsarskoye Selo (now Pushkin), where the renowned Italian architect Bartolomeo Francesco Rastrelli expanded and redesigned the room to fit its new, grander setting. a symbol of Russian imperial grandeur. Tragically, the original Amber Room was lost during World War II, when it was stolen by the Nazis during their occupation of the area. Despite many attempts to locate the missing panels, the fate of the original Amber Room remains one of history's great unsolved mysteries.

However, the Amber Room was meticulously reconstructed in the 2000s, following extensive research and restoration efforts. While it may not be the original, the recreated Amber Room is still an awe-inspiring sight, offering visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of Russian royal life and the artistry that went into creating such an extraordinary room. The reconstructed Amber Room continues to be a highlight of Catherine's Palace and one of the most visited attractions in Russia.

Nevsky prospect

With a free afternoon in St. Petersburg, you can really dive into the city’s charm. Walking along Nevsky Prospect is indeed a fantastic experience! This iconic avenue captures the essence of St. Petersburg with its vibrant atmosphere, stunning architecture, and rich history. As you stroll, you’ll encounter a mix of lively cafes, shops, and theaters. Don’t miss the chance to pop into some of the beautiful churches and cathedrals along the way, like the magnificent Kazan Cathedral or the ornate Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood. Each offers a unique glimpse into the city’s cultural and religious heritage.

Enjoy St. Petersburg panoramic views

Climbing to the top of St. Isaac's Cathedral is indeed an incredible experience! The panoramic views of St. Petersburg from the dome are breathtaking, offering a unique perspective of the city’s stunning architecture, the Neva River, and beyond.

Heli flight

Another great local experience, an optional panoramic helicopter flight from St. Peter and Paul Fortress, place where St. Petersburg was founded back in 1703. Best views and professional pilots at your disposal. You take off and land from the Peter and Paul Fortress, the heart of St Petersburg.