The Grand Volga Dream from Moscow to Volgograd

Arrive in Moscow and transfer to the Volga Dream . Spend the evening relaxing or exploring Moscow. (D)

Begin the day with an orientation city tour of Moscow which includes Red Square, the impressive St. Basil’s Cathedral and the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour. Continue to the famous Novodevichi Cemetery which holds the tombs of Russian authors, musicians, playwrights, and poets, as well as famous actors, political leaders, and scientists. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure to explore Moscow or seek out a cultural performance at one of the city’s renowned venues. (B,L,D)
 

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 Fabergé eggs. Later, transfer onto the Volga Dream and experience the ‘Bread, Salt, & Vodka’ welcome ceremony aboard. Tuck in to a delicious buffet lunch before setting sail along Russia’s waterways. In the evening meet your crew and Captain at the Captain’s Welcome reception and dinner. (B,L,D)

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)

Today uncover the city of Yaroslavl. Founded in the 11th century by Prince Yaroslavl 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)

Today is spent relaxing on board the M/S Volga Dream sailing between Yaroslavl and Nizhny Novgorod. (B,L,D)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

After breakfast,  transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK. (B)