What could be more romantic than walking along rivers and canals of one of the romantic and most historically rich countries in the world? Begin your tour in Moscow exploring the Kremlin, Red Square, and the enchanting Cathedral of St. Basil.

Continue your river cruise through the enigmatic land of the Golden Ring, famous for breath-taking churches of white stone, fortresses, beautiful monasteries. Visit the culture-filled villages and quaint towns along the waterways of the czars—Yaroslavl, Uglich and Kizhi. In Yaroslavl, you’ll be transfixed by the art and architecture of the Museum-Preserve situated on the territory of the former Monastery of Transfiguration of the Savior and see beautiful old churches dating back to the 17th century. In Kizhi Island you’ll experience the architectural wonders of the region's monumental timber buildings, including 18th century timber churches gracefully crowned by an array of cupolas, adorned with aspen shingles and impressively ornamented peasant houses.

Arrive in St. Petersburg and fall under the spell of the White Nights (“Belye Nochy”) in the land of the midnight sun. One of the most beautiful and architecturally distinct cities in the world with more than 60 rivers and canals and over 300 bridges, St. Petersburg is alive with the energy and excitement of the city’s summer festival of White Nights. Stroll Nevsky Prospekt to visit the Imperial palaces and experience the birthplace of Russian literature and the infamous Faberge’. Indulge yourself in the rich history of the magnificent Hermitage, one of the world’s largest museums, housed in the Winter Palace on the embankment of the River Neva and enjoy the sweet music of local musicians playing for their friends on Palace Square. Take advantage of tours to Pushkin and the Peter & Paul Fortress.

You’ll see grand monuments and opulent palaces, discover fortified monasteries and beautiful cathedrals, and experience the history and culture of this amazing country. Enjoy it all from the comfort of the newly renovated Viking Surkov of Viking River Cruises, recognized for excellence among cruise ships by Conde Nast and named to the Conde Nast Traveler Gold List 2007.

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