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19 DAYS JOURNEY TO RUSSIA, THE BALTIC STATES & EASTERN
EUROPE
Countries
visited: Russia, Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia, Poland, Czech Republic & Austria |
 |
One of the world’s most unique empire
went beyond it’s own territory in political and cultural
influence. The art, music and culture of the Eastern Hemisphere
of Europe is an envy of many regions of the world especially
when one sees that it’s reflections in the unique and
marvels in architecture of the various buildings, bridges,
castles and general panorama. This journey gives an insight
that will be remembered for all times to come.
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Tour
Summary
|
Map |
Day
|
Place
|
|
01
|
Arrive Moscow |
|
02
|
Moscow |
| 03 |
Moscow / Tver and Novgorod |
|
04
|
Novgorod / St. Petersburg |
|
05
|
St. Petersburg |
|
06
|
St Petersburg / Tallinn |
|
07
|
Tallin / Riga |
|
08
|
Riga |
|
09
|
Riga / Vilnius |
|
10
|
Vilnius |
|
11
|
Vilnius / Warsaw |
|
12
|
Warsaw |
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13
|
Warsaw / Krakow |
| 14 |
Krakow |
| 15 |
Krakov / Prague |
| 16 |
Prague |
| 17 |
Prague / Vienna |
| 18 |
Vienna |
| 19 |
Vienna / Depart |
|
|
 |
UNESCO
World Heritage Sites Visited
This tour has been tailored to include the following World
Heritage Sites |
| World
Heritage Sites in: Russia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland,
Czech Republic & Austria covered in this tour |
|
Kremlin and Red Square, Moscow (1990) |
Inextricably linked to all the most important
historical and political events in Russia since the 13th century,
the Kremlin (built between the 14th and 17th centuries by outstanding
Russian and foreign architects) was the residence of the Great
Prince and also a religious centre. At the foot of its ramparts,
on Red Square, St Basil's Basilica is one of the most beautiful
Russian Orthodox monuments. |
| Historic monuments of Novgorod
(1992) |
Situated on the ancient trade route between Central
Asia and northern Europe, Novgorod was Russia's first capital
in the 9th century. Surrounded by churches and monasteries,
it was a centre for Orthodox spirituality as well as Russian
architecture. Its medieval monuments and the 14th-century frescoes
of Theophanes the Greek (Andrei Rublev's teacher) illustrate
the development of its remarkable architecture and cultural
creativity. |
| Historic monuments of St. Petersburg
(1990) |
The 'Venice of the North', with its numerous canals and more
than 400 bridges, is the result of a vast urban project begun
in 1703 under Peter the Great. Later known as Leningrad (in
the former USSR), the city is closely associated with the October
Revolution. Its architectural heritage reconciles the very
different Baroque and pure neoclassical styles, as can be seen
in the Admiralty, the Winter Palace, the Marble Palace and
the Hermitage. |
| Historic center of Tallin (1997) |
The origins of Tallinn date back to the 13th century, when
a castle was built there by the crusading knights of the Teutonic
Order. It developed as a major centre of the Hanseatic League,
and its wealth is demonstrated by the opulence of the public
buildings (the churches in particular) and the domestic architecture
of the merchants' houses, which have survived to a remarkable
degree despite the ravages of fire and war in the intervening
centuries. |
| Historic center of Riga (1997) |
Riga was a major centre of the Hanseatic League,
deriving its prosperity in the 13th–15th centuries
from the trade with central and eastern Europe. The urban
fabric of its medieval
centre reflects this prosperity, though most of the earliest
buildings were destroyed by fire or war. Riga became an important
economic centre in the 19th century, when the suburbs surrounding
the medieval town were laid out, first with imposing wooden
buildings in neoclassical style and then in Jugendstil. It
is generally recognized that Riga has the finest collection
of art nouveau buildings in Europe. |
| Historic center of Vilnius (1994) |
Political centre of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania from the
13th to the end of the 18th century, Vilnius has had a profound
influence on the cultural and architectural development of
much of eastern Europe. Despite invasions and partial destruction,
it has preserved an impressive complex of Gothic, Renaissance,
Baroque and classical buildings as well as its medieval layout
and natural setting. |
| Historic
center of Warsaw (1980) |
During
the Warsaw Uprising in August 1944, more than 85% of Warsaw's
historic centre was destroyed by Nazi troops. After the war,
a five-year reconstruction campaign by its citizens resulted
in today's meticulous restoration of the Old Town, with its
churches, palaces and market-place. It is an outstanding
example of a near-total reconstruction of a span of history
covering the 13th to the 20th century. |
| Auschwitz
(1979) (optional) |
The fortified walls, barbed wire, platforms, barracks, gallows,
gas chambers and cremation ovens show the conditions within
which the Nazi genocide took place in the former concentration
and extermination camp of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest in
the Third Reich. According to historical investigations, 1.5
million people, among them a great number of Jews, were systematically
starved, tortured and murdered in this camp, the symbol of
humanity's cruelty to its fellow human beings in the 20th |
| Historic
center of Krakow (1978) |
The historic centre of Cracow, the former capital of Poland,
is situated at the foot of the Royal Wawel Castle. The 13th-century
merchants' town has Europe's largest market square and numerous
historical houses, palaces and churches with their magnificent
interiors. Further evidence of the town's fascinating history
is provided by the remnants of the 14th-century fortifications
and the medieval site of Kazimierz with its ancient synagogues
in the southern part of town, Jagellonian University and the
Gothic cathedral where the kings of Poland were buried. |
| Historic
center of Prague (1992) |
Built
between the 11th and 18th centuries, the Old Town, the Lesser
Town and the New Town speak of the great architectural and
cultural influence enjoyed by this city since the Middle
Ages. The many magnificent monuments, such as Hradcani Castle,
St Vitus Cathedral, Charles Bridge and numerous churches
and palaces, built mostly in the 14th century under the Holy
Roman Emperor, Charles IV. |
| Historic center of Vienna
(2001) |
Vienna developed from early Celtic and Roman
settlements into a Medieval and Baroque city, the capital of
the Austro-Hungarian Empire. It played an essential role as
a leading European music centre, from the great age of Viennese
Classicism through the early part of the 20th century. The
historic centre of Vienna is rich in architectural ensembles,
including Baroque castles and gardens, as well as the late-19th-century
Ringstrasse lined with grand buildings, monuments and parks. |
| Detailed
Itinerary |
Day 01, Sat:
Arrive Moscow
Welcome to Moscow – a capital to the world. We are
warmly received and transferred to our hotel. Balance of
the day is
free to relax. Enjoy your dinner at the hotel restaurant.
Overnight: Hotel Cosmos, Moscow (2 nights) (D)
Day 02, Sun: Moscow
Moscow, one of the largest cities in the world, is the symbolic
heart and soul of the country. Sightseeing begins at the Red
Square, dominated by St. Basil's Cathedral and by the massive
red walls of the Kremlin. Visit the Armory Museum, proceed
to see the Moscow University and the popular Arbat shopping
district. Continue with a drive along the wide boulevards and
then stroll through GUM, Russia’s largest department
store. Rest of the day is at leisure. You may take part in
an optional tour by night of Moscow and its subway. (B)
Day 03, Mon: Moscow / Tver and Novgorod
After an early breakfast, depart for Tver, an ancient trading
port nestled on the banks of the Volga River. The city offers
fascinating treasures, including Putevoy Dvorets, built for
Catherine II as a resting place on her journeys from Moscow
to St. Petersburg. Enjoy a short sightseeing tour of this remarkable
city. End the day in historic Novgorod, founded almost twelve
centuries ago.
Overnight: Hotel Beresta, Novgorod (1 night) (B, D)
Day 04, Tue: Novgorod / St. Petersburg
A morning sightseeing tour of Novgorod starts at the Kremlin
with a visit to St. Sophia Cathedral. Then, cross the river
via a pedestrian bridge to visit the Yaroslav Court. In the
afternoon, travel north to St. Petersburg, the former capital
of the Romanov Czars. Upon arrival enjoy a first sightseeing
tour of the city starting with the visit of Peter and Paul
Fortress, quarter of the City museum and its cathedral, which
houses the crypt of the Russian emperors. Next, visit St. Isaac’s
Cathedral.
Overnight: Park Inn Pulkovskaya, St. Pteresburg (2 nights)
(B, D)
Day 05, Wed: St. Petersburg
There are not many cities in the world that can match the grace
of St. Petersburg. When Peter the Great founded the city in
1703, he hired Europe’s best architects, craftsmen and
artists to build and decorate it. Spread over 100 islands linked
by over 600 bridges, it is often referred to as “Venice
of the North”. This morning sightseeing tour will feature
highlight: the world-famous Hermitage, which houses many treasures
from the Czarist era. The rest of the day is free at leisure.
(B, D)
Day 06, Thu: St Petersburg / Tallinn
Journey to Estonia, where our first stop is at Narva. Continue
to Tallinn, capital of Estonia and situated on the southern
coast of the Gulf of Finland.
Overnight: Meriton Grand Hotel, Tallin (1 night) (B, D)
Day 07, Fri: Tallin / Riga
On a walking tour of the Upper and Lower Old Town, a UNESCO
World Heritage site, we visit the Orthodox Alexander Nevsky
Cathedral. Next, we visit Toompea Castle and see the 14th century
gothic Town Hall. This afternoon we are off to Riga, capital
of Latvia.
Overnight: Reval Latvija or Avalan Hotel, Riga (2 nights) (B,
D)
Day 08, Sat: Riga
During our sightseeing tour we see Riga Castle, the magnificent
Dome Cathedral, St. Jacobs Cathedral, St. Peter’s Church,
the Parliament building, Liberty Monument and the district
of Art Nouveau houses. Afternoon is free. (B)
Day 09, Sun: Riga / Vilnius
Morning we take a leisurely drive to Vilnius, capital of Lithuania.
The rest of the day is at leisure.
Overnight: Hotel New Vilnius, Vilnius (2 nights) (B, D)
Day 10, Mon: Vilnius
The city of Vilnius is located at the confluence of the Neris
and Velnele Rivers. In Old Vilnius we visit Peter and Paul
Church and St. Anna’s Church. View Vilnius University,
dating back to 1570, the Gediminas' Tower in the Upper Town
and Vilnius Castle. Afternoon is free. Optional excursion to
Trakai. (B)
Day 11, Tue: Vilnius / Warsaw
A full day’s drive seeing beautiful landscape and after
crossing the border into Poland, we arrive at the capital city,
Warsaw, late afternoon.
Overnight: Holiday Inn, Warsaw (2 nights) (B, L, D)
Day 12, Wed: Warsaw
This 700 year old capital of Poland is a symbol of nationhood
and the will to survive against great odds. A sightseeing tour
here includes a drive along the famous Royal Route from magnificent
Castle Square to Lazienki Park and Palace, summer residence
of the last king of Poland. Pass by the Palace of Science and
Culture (known as a “wedding cake”), the Saxon
Gardens, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Monument to the Heroes
of the Warsaw Ghetto and the Barbican. Continue with the walking
tour of the Old Town, Old Market Square and St. John’s
Cathedral. Time free to rest or stroll through the city or
attend late afternoon Chopin concert. (B)
Day 13, Thu: Warsaw / Krakow
This morning we journey to Czestochowa, known for the blackened
picture of St. Mary in the Yasna Gora Monastery, popularly
called the "Black Madonna". Afternoon, there is time
for an optional trip to one of the most somber memorials of
the past, Auschwitz. End your day in Krakow.
Overnight: Hotel Novotel Centrum, Krakow (2 nights) (B, D)
Day 14, Fri: Krakow
Our exploration of Krakow starts with a visit to the Wawel
Hill, viewing the Royal Castle and the Royal Cathedral. Enjoy
a walking tour of the Old Town where we visit the Main Market
Square, Renaissance Cloth Hall and St. Mary's Church (B)
Day 15, Sat: Krakov / Prague
After an interesting and scenic drive through the Polish countryside,
we cross the borders to Slovakia and then to the Czech Republic.
Then, on to Zlata Praha (Golden Prague) with its Baroque churches,
promenades, parks and ancient city walls.
Overnight: Hotel Diplomat, Prague (2 nights) (B, D)
Day 16, Sun: Prague
Built on the seven hills more than 1000 years ago and situated
on both banks of the Vltava River, Prague is one of the most
attractive cities in Europe. Your city tour starts with a panoramic
drive to the famous Wenceslas Square, the Strahov Stadium and
the Castle Square. On a walking tour, visit the Royal Castle
of Hradcany, St. Vitus Cathedral, Royal Palace and Loretto
Church. Cross the Charles Bridge and walk through the old quarter
of Prague to view the Jewish Ghetto, Town Hall and the world
famous Astronomical Clock. The balance of the day is free.
An optional visit to a cultural performance will be available. (B)
Day 17, Mon: Prague / Vienna
Today's destination is Vienna, the "City of Waltz",
and one of Europe's loveliest cities.
Overnight: Hotel Ananas, Vienna (2 nights) (B)
Day 18, Tue: Vienna
Our morning tour includes visit of the Hofburg Palace, once
the seat of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and we view the Belvedere
Palace, Prater amusement park, the UN buildings, St. Stephen's
Cathedral and other vivid reminders of the city's imperial
history. Afternoon is at leisure. Farwell dinner at a local
restaurant.
(B, D)
Day 19, Wed: Depart Vienna
After an interesting journey through Russia, the Baltics and
Eastern Europe we bid farewell as we are transferred to the
airport for our departure flight. (B) |
|
B
= Breakfast
|
L
= Lunch
|
D
= Dinner
|
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|
Departure Dates |
|
2008
May 10 & 31, Jun 21, Jul 12, Aug 02 & 23, Sep 13, & Oct
04
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| Prices |
| Season |
Tour
Price US$ / CA$ |
Single
Sup US$ / CA$ |
| 2008 |
3695 |
1430 |
| Tour
Price Includes |
Tour
Price Does Not Include: |
- Hotels as per itinerary (or similar category)
- Meals as mentioned (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch D=Dinner)
- Touring by modern air-conditioned motor coach
- Airport transfers
- Services of local English speaking guides
- Entrance fees to sites
|
- International airfare / Airport taxes
- Visa
fee (if any) and insurance
- Tips
/ Gratuities
|
| Estimated
International Airfare( NOT
INCLUDED in
tour price ) |
| East
Coast |
US $ / CA $
800 |
| West
Coast |
US $ / CA $
1200 |
| Please
note:
This tour operates with a minimum of 02
and a maximum of 20
participants. |
| Other
Dates / Customized Itinerary / Languages |
In addition to our set programs we are also pleased
to offer customized tours.
Please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss your
individual needs.
Customized tours can be conducted in English, French,
German, Spanish or Italian. Each departure is conducted
in the designated language only. |
| Contact
Information |
|
|
Fax:
+1-604-264-7774
|
| 206–8678
Greenall Ave |
Phone:
+1-604-264-7378 |
| Burnaby
B.C., Canada |
Toll
Free (US & Canada): 1-800-663-0844 |
| V5J
3M6 |
Email:
bestway@bestway.com |
|
30
years in small group journeys
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Site
updated April 04, 2008
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