5 days itinerary in Russia

9:00 - 12:00

Explore the opulent Grand Palace, stroll through the meticulously landscaped Lower Gardens, and marvel at the stunning fountains, including the iconic Grand Cascade and Samson Fountain. Don't miss the Marly Palace for a serene view of the Gulf of Finland.

Tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful morning in the gardens. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved. Check for any special events or fountain shows scheduled during your visit.

12:30 - 13:30

14:00 - 15:00

Explore the grandeur of Palace Square, the central city square of St. Petersburg. Admire the Alexander Column, a monument to Russia's victory in the Napoleonic Wars. Take in the stunning architecture of the Winter Palace and the General Staff Building. Capture beautiful photos at designated spots like the base of the Alexander Column and the Winter Palace façade.

Tips: Visit during the evening to see the square beautifully illuminated. Stand near the Hermitage Museum entrance for a splendid night view of the square. Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking on cobblestone surfaces.

15:30 - 18:30

Explore the opulent rooms and halls of the Winter Palace, which served as the official residence of the Russian emperors. Visit the Hermitage Museum housed within the palace to view an extensive collection of art and cultural artifacts. Don't miss the grand staircase and the throne room for a glimpse into imperial Russia's grandeur.

Tips: Plan your visit to include a walk along the Neva River Embankment to capture stunning photos of the palace illuminated against the evening sky. Arrive early to avoid crowds and take advantage of guided tours for a more in-depth understanding of the palace's history.

19:00 - 20:00

9:00 - 12:30

Explore the vast collection of art and culture at the State Hermitage Museum, one of the largest and oldest museums in the world. Admire masterpieces from renowned artists, stroll through the opulent Winter Palace, and don't miss the grand Jordan Staircase. Capture stunning photos at Winter Palace Square and enjoy the breathtaking view from Palace Embankment.

Tips: Arrive early to avoid long queues and make the most of your morning visit. Consider purchasing tickets online in advance. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking a lot. Check for any special exhibitions or events happening during your visit.

13:00 - 14:00

14:30 - 15:30

Explore the grand architecture of St. Isaac's Cathedral, a significant landmark in Saint Petersburg. Climb to the colonnade for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. Inside, admire the intricate mosaics and paintings that adorn the cathedral's interior.

Tips: Visit during the late afternoon to capture stunning photos from the colonnade as the sun sets over Saint Petersburg. Don't miss the chance to see the cathedral illuminated at night from the Blue Bridge.

18:00 - 19:00

9:00 - 10:30

Explore the historic Red Square, one of Moscow's most iconic landmarks. Visit Saint Basil's Cathedral with its colorful domes, pay respects at Lenin's Mausoleum, and take a stroll through the GUM Department Store. Don't miss the chance to walk along the Kremlin Wall and soak in the rich history of the area.

Tips: Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and get the best photos. Make sure to check if there are any special events or ceremonies happening at the Kremlin during your visit. The GUM Department Store is beautifully lit up at night, offering a magical photo opportunity.

11:00 - 13:00

Explore the extensive exhibits that cover Russian history from ancient times to the present day. Don't miss the impressive collection of artifacts, including the Portland Penny that decided the city's name. Take a leisurely stroll through the museum's halls to appreciate its rich historical and cultural displays.

Tips: Visit during the late morning to early afternoon to avoid the busiest times. Capture stunning photos from Red Square and Manezhnaya Square, and don't miss the illuminated view from near the Iberian Gate and Chapel at night.

13:30 - 14:30

15:00 - 17:00

Explore the diverse landscapes of Zaryadye Park, from the lush greenery to the urban tundra. Walk across the Floating Bridge for a breathtaking view of the Kremlin and St. Basil's Cathedral. Visit the Ice Cave for a surreal experience with its icy walls and ambient lighting. Don't miss the River Overlook for a stunning night view of the illuminated Moscow skyline reflected in the river.

Tips: Plan your visit around sunset to capture beautiful photos from the Floating Bridge and River Overlook. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved. Check out any scheduled events or performances at the park's amphitheater.

18:00 - 19:00

10:00 - 12:00

Explore the extensive collection of Russian fine art, including masterpieces from the medieval period to the early 20th century. Don't miss the famous works by artists like Andrei Rublev and Ilya Repin. Take a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the artworks.

Tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience with the art. Photography is allowed in certain areas, so make sure to capture the stunning facade and interior. Check for any temporary exhibitions or events that might be happening during your visit.

12:30 - 13:30

14:00 - 16:00

Explore the diverse collection of Soviet-era statues in the Fallen Monument Park, take a leisurely stroll along the riverfront for scenic views of the Moscow River, and enjoy the artistic ambiance created by the modern-art division of the Tretyakov Gallery and the Central House of Artists.

Tips: Visit the central fountain area at night to experience the illuminated sculptures and water features. Early afternoon is a great time to capture photos with soft natural light along the riverfront.

16:30 - 17:30

Explore the magnificent architecture of this Russian Orthodox cathedral, which stands as a symbol of Russian history and culture. Take a moment to appreciate the intricate frescoes and icons inside the cathedral. Don't miss the panoramic views from the observation deck, which offers a stunning perspective of Moscow.

Tips: Visit Patriarch's Bridge for a breathtaking view of the cathedral with the Moskva River in the foreground, especially during late afternoon. Capture the grandeur of the cathedral from Volhonka Street during golden hour for the best light. Consider a night river cruise on the Moskva River to see the cathedral beautifully illuminated against the night sky.

18:00 - 19:00

9:00 - 11:00

Explore the vast grounds of this historic exhibition center, which showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union. Visit the various pavilions dedicated to different industries and republics, enjoy the amusement park rides, and take a leisurely stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens. Don't miss the iconic Worker and Kolkhoz Woman Statue and the Friendship of Nations Fountain for some great photo opportunities.

Tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and have ample time to explore. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved. Check out the schedule for any special events or exhibitions happening during your visit. The Main Entrance Arch is beautifully lit at night, so consider staying until evening for some stunning night-time photography.

11:30 - 12:30

13:00 - 15:30

Explore the diverse range of animals housed in the Moscow Zoo, from majestic big cats to delicate butterflies. Visit the Big Cat Enclosure to see lions, tigers, and other large felines in habitats designed to mimic their natural environments. Don't miss the Butterfly House, where you can walk among beautiful butterflies and enjoy the lush greenery.

Tips: Plan your visit between 13:00 and 15:30 to avoid the morning rush and enjoy a more relaxed experience. Make sure to bring a camera for great photo opportunities at the Big Cat Enclosure and Butterfly House. Check the zoo's schedule for any special events or feeding times that might be happening during your visit.

16:00 - 17:00

Explore the lush greenery and historical significance of Alexander Garden. Take a leisurely stroll along the pathways, enjoy the beautiful flower beds, and visit the various monuments and memorials scattered throughout the garden. Don't miss the photo spots near the Kremlin Wall, Fountain Group, and Grotto Ruins for some memorable pictures.

Tips: Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy the garden in a cooler temperature and capture stunning photos with the evening light. The Grotto Ruins are especially beautiful when illuminated at night. Keep an eye out for any special events or performances that might be happening during your visit.

18:00 - 19:00