The Grand Volga Dream from Moscow to the Caspian Sea

From the Golden Horde  to the Soviet era, the scenic cities of Russia’s grand Volga River have been witness to some of the most significant events in Russian history. On a journey aboard the deluxe M/S Volga Dream, cruise from Moscow to the Volga River Delta on the Caspian Sea. Discover iconic onion-domed churches; stroll through gems such as medieval Nizhny Novgorod; and explore the treasures of Yaroslavl, the Volga’s oldest city.

Visit magnificent Red Square and the Kremlin, and examine the collection at the Kremlin's State Armory. Enjoy lectures by an on board guest speaker about the history and culture of local communities and famous Russians who were born and lived on the banks of the Volga River. Experience Russia's diverse musical traditions at lively folk music performances, explore Volgograd - the site of the decisive battle of World War II's eastern front and visit the world capital of caviar and taste this delicacy in the city of Astrakhan.

This journey also operates from Astrakhan to Moscow. Please click here for an itinerary for this route or contact one of our Russia Travel Specialists for more information.

Tour Itinerary

DAY 1

FLY TO MOSCOW

Arrive Moscow and transfer to the deluxe M/S Volga Dream. Spend the rest of the day at leisure relaxing or exploring Moscow. (D)

DAY 2

MOSCOW

Awake in Moscow and embark on a half day tour of the Russian capital, including a ride in the ornate Moscow metro. After lunch visit the Old Tretyakov gallery, the first museum dedicated exclusively to Russian fine art and view its extraordinary collection ranging from 12th century icons to 20th century paintings. In the evening enjoy dinner onboard of the M/S Volga Dream. (B,L,D)

DAY 3

MOSCOW

In the morning visit the Kremlin and Armoury Museum to view its collection of opulent coronation finery, hand-forged armour and weapons, royal carriages and sleighs, and dazzling Faberge eggs. After lunch return to the M/S Volga Dream and experience the ‘Bread, Salt, & Vodka welcome ceremony aboard. (B,L,D)

DAY 4

UGLICH

Arrive in Uglich, one of Russia’s most picturesque towns, and enjoy the beautiful view of the Cathedral of the Resurrection and St. John's Church looming on the horizon. Start a walking tour of this Golden Ring city and visit the Chapel of St. Dmitry of the Blood, a 17th-century architectural treasure built on the site where Ivan the Terrible's young son met his death. Continue to the five-domed Church of the Transfiguration, noted for its beautiful iconostasis, and enjoy a concert of choral music. (B, L, D)

DAY 5

YAROSLAVL

Today uncover the city of Yaroslavl. Founded in the 11th century by Prince Yaroslav the Wise, Yaroslavl is the oldest city on the Volga. The city was undamaged during World War II and many of Yaroslavl's churches from the 13th-17th centuries are intact. Visit the Saviour Transfiguration Monastery, adorned with murals depicting Saint John's apocalyptic visions. Continue to the 17th-century Church of EIljah the Prophet with its most prized asset- frescoes painted by renowned artists of ancient Russia and experience a costumed Russian tea ceremony at the governor’s house. Re-board the M/S Volga Dream for lunch. (B, L, D)

DAY 6

NIZHNY NOVGOROD

Sail to Nizhny Novgorod (formerly Gorkiy), also known as the ’third capital’ of Russia. Founded in 1221, the city has long been an important trading centre until it became closed to foreigners due to military activity during the Soviet era. Learn about the city's history as a place of exile for political prisoners, enjoy a walk on the ramparts of the 16th-century Kremlin and visit elaborately painted churches. In the evening enjoy a concert by a local children folk group. (B, L, D)

DAY 7

KAZAN

This morning enter the Republic of Tatarstan and enjoy the view of charming mosques. In the afternoon, reach Kazan, the capital of Tatarstan and visit the ‘citadel’ - a white-walled Kremlin where the famous mosque Kul-Sherif neighbours the old Peter and Paul Cathedral. In the late afternoon, enjoy a concert by a local Tatar folk ensemble before returning to the M/S Volga Dream. (B, L, D)

DAY 8

SAMARA

Continue sailing by the Zhigulevskie mountains and reach the city of Samara. Visit the space museum, stroll along the Volga esplanade to the Samara State Art Museum. In the afternoon, transfer back to your ship and enjoy a barbeque on the decks of the Volga Dream. (B, L, D)

DAY 9

SARATOV

Founded in 1590, Saratov was initially a fortress forming a line of defence for the trade route along the Volga. Today Saratov is known for its connection to Russia's first cosmonaut, Yuri Gagarin, who lived and studied here. Embark on a full day city tour and visit Radishev State Art Museum who displays a fine selection of art from the 18th to the 20th centuries. (B, L, D)

DAY 10

VOLGOGRAD

Arrive Volgograd and learn about its tumultuous history. Originally called Tsaritsyn it was renamed Stalingrad during the Soviet era and today dramatically known for the most triumphant and tragic event in Soviet history, the Battle of Stalingrad. Visit the memorial on Mamayev Hill and Stalingrad battle panorama museum, who displays a dozens of exhibits on the Battle of Stalingrad and the soldiers who fought in it. In the evening transfer back to the M/S Volga Dream and enjoy a delicious farewell dinner. (B, L, D)

DAY 11

ASTRAKHAN

Spend the whole day sailing and in the evening reach the upper end of the Volga river delta - about 100 Km from the Caspian Sea - and arrive Astrakhan, the world’s caviar capital. (B, L, D)