MOSCOW EXPERIENCE

After breakfast, enjoy the first sights of Moscow as you pass by the main streets and boulevards of the 855 year old ancient city. Stop at Sparrow Hills for a panoramic view of the city and view the nearby renowned Moscow State University before visiting Victory Park. Later, absorb the atmosphere of medieval  Russia and see the refined New Maiden Convent (from outside). Founded in 1524, these are some the city's most beautiful collection of buildings with 16 gilded domes. Afterwards, wander through the Red Square, arguably one of the most famous squares in the world. The square received its name from the Russian word for "red", which many centuries ago meant beautiful. Continue to the brightly-domed St. Basil's Cathedral, the world-renowned Lenin Mausoleum, the expansive facaded of the GUM department store, and the Kazan Cathedral. You will also have the opportunity to discover the interior of the Kremlin, the former residence of the Tsars and now the residence of the Russian president. Here you will also witness one of Kremlin's most beautiful Orthodox Cathedral. The Cathedral Square still retains the aura of early Tsarist Russia where the spirits of Ivan the Terrible, Boris Godunov, and the early Romanovs still loom large. At the conclusion of the tour, you will be taken to the Armoury to view a unique collection of the ancient state of Regalia - the ceremonial vestments and coronation dress of the Tsars, gold and silverware by Russian Craftsmen, and ceremonial weapons and arms.

DAY 04 - MOSCOW (AB)

Today you will take a guided walking tour around the major cultural and historical landmarks of Moscow. See one of the famous "Seven Sisters" skyscrapers built during Stalin's last years and initially thought of as an elite housing.  Later, you will visit Lubyanka Square, the world famous KGB center of the Soviet epoch. Then walk through the small central streets and lanes where every building has its own unique and interesting story. Most of them currently represent Russian theatres, hotels, museums, or state institutions.  Continue to Tverskaya Street, the main and busiest street in Moscow containing an array of shops, restaurants, and unique combination of old, Stalin, and modern architecture. Afterwards, stroll through the Teatralnaya Square next to Bolshoi Theatre. Next, explore the Moscow Metro, a masterpiece created during the Soviet Era of Socialist Realism style, where the stations are decorated with marble, mosaics, stained glass panels, bronze, and chandeliers. Built during Stalin's rule, these metro stations were supposed to display the best of Soviet architecture and design to showcase the privileged lifestyle of the Russian people. The remainder of the afternoon is free for further exploration, shopping, or relaxation.