STOCKHOLM Nach COPENHAGEN

Stockholm, founded as a fortress where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic, began to grow in the mid-13th century. It ultimately became Sweden's capital. Catch a glimpse of the city before heading to the airport for your homeward bound flight. This tour is also available to guests staying at a hotel

City Hall

Stockholm's City Hall is one of Europe's most impressive modern structures. On a waterfront location, it boasts pillared arcades and lavishly decorated rooms. Internationally, it is best known as the venue of the annual banquet for the Nobel Prize. Pass through the city centre to the neighbouring island of Djurgarden, the site of the Vasa Museum.

Vasa Museum

On the island of Djurgarden, regarded as Stockholm's outdoor recreation centre and Green Lung, visit the Vasa Museum. On display is the seventeenth century warship which sank in Stockholm's inner harbour on the outset of its maiden voyage in 1628. The discovery of the ship in 1956 and its salvage in 1961 are some of the most important events in marine archaeology.

Departing the Vasa, cross the medieval Old Town (Gamla Stan) en route to the airport,Sheraton or Grand hotel only or back to the pier.

Please note: This tour is available for disembarking guests staying in Stockholm as well as guests with flights after 5:00 p.m. Tour involves moderate walking with numerous stairs to negotiate. It is not recommended for guests with limited mobility and venues are not wheelchair accessible. A minimum number of participants is required to operate this tour. The order of sights visited and actual tour duration may vary. Upon completion of the tour visits, the coach may stop only at the Grand Hotel and/or the Sheraton Hotel to disembark guests staying in Stockholm, before proceeding to the airport or back to the pier. Please note that the City Hall can close on short notice due to private functions.

Enjoy a panoramic overview of Stockholm and its most notable attractions during this half-day tour.

Departing the pier, enjoy a sightseeing drive that will include a photo stop at Fjallgatan, from where you may enjoy a spectacular view over Stockholm, its islands and waters. Continue the panoramic drive en route to the iconic City Hall.

City Hall

Stockholm's City Hall is one of Europe's most impressive modern structures. On a waterfront location, it boasts pillared arcades and lavishly decorated rooms. Internationally, it is best known as the venue of the annual banquet for the Nobel Prize. Pass through the city centre to the neighbouring island of Djurgarden, the site of the Vasa Museum.

Vasa Museum

On the island of Djurgarden, regarded as Stockholm's outdoor recreation centre and Green Lung, visit the Vasa Museum. On display is the seventeenth century warship which sank in Stockholm's inner harbour on the outset of its maiden voyage in 1628. The discovery of the ship in 1956 and its salvage in 1961 are one of the most important events in marine archaeology.

Departing the Vasa, cross the medieval Old Town (Gamla Stan) en route back to the pier.

Please note: Tour involves moderate walking with numerous stairs to negotiate. It is not recommended for guests with limited mobility however locations visited during the tour are wheelchair accessible. A minimum number of participants is required to operate this tour option. The order of sights visited and actual tour duration may vary. Please note that the City Hall can close on short notice due to private functions.

Enjoy a panoramic overview of Stockholm and its most notable attractions during this half-day tour.

Departing the pier, enjoy a sightseeing drive that will include a photo stop at Fjallgatan, from where you may enjoy a spectacular view over Stockholm, its islands and waters. Continue the panoramic drive en route to the iconic City Hall.

City Hall

Stockholm's City Hall is one of Europe's most impressive modern structures. On a waterfront location, it boasts pillared arcades and lavishly decorated rooms. Internationally, it is best known as the venue of the annual banquet for the Nobel Prize. Pass through the city centre to the neighbouring island of Djurgarden, the site of the Vasa Museum.

Vasa Museum

On the island of Djurgarden, regarded as Stockholm's outdoor recreation centre and Green Lung, visit the Vasa Museum. On display is the seventeenth century warship which sank in Stockholm's inner harbour on the outset of its maiden voyage in 1628. The discovery of the ship in 1956 and its salvage in 1961 are one of the most important events in marine archaeology.

Departing the Vasa, cross the medieval Old Town (Gamla Stan) en route back to the pier.

Please note: Tour is Guided in German, minimum amount of guests required to operate this tour option. It involves moderate walking with numerous stairs to negotiate. It is not recommended for guests with limited mobility however locations visited during the tour are not wheelchair accessible. The order of sights visited and actual tour duration may vary. Please note that the City Hall can close on short notice due to private functions.

Enjoy a panoramic overview of Stockholm and its most notable attractions during this half-day tour.

Departing the pier, enjoy a sightseeing drive that will include a photo stop at Fjallgatan, from where you may enjoy a spectacular view over Stockholm, its islands and waters. Continue the panoramic drive en route to the iconic City Hall.

City Hall

Stockholm's City Hall is one of Europe's most impressive modern structures. On a waterfront location, it boasts pillared arcades and lavishly decorated rooms. Internationally, it is best known as the venue of the annual banquet for the Nobel Prize. Pass through the city centre to the neighbouring island of Djurgarden, the site of the Vasa Museum.

Vasa Museum

On the island of Djurgarden, regarded as Stockholm's outdoor recreation centre and Green Lung, visit the Vasa Museum. On display is the seventeenth century warship which sank in Stockholm's inner harbour on the outset of its maiden voyage in 1628. The discovery of the ship in 1956 and its salvage in 1961 are one of the most important events in marine archaeology.

Departing the Vasa, cross the medieval Old Town (Gamla Stan) en route back to the pier.

Please note: Tour is Guided in Spanish, minimum amount of guests required to operate this tour. It involves moderate walking with numerous stairs to negotiate. It is not recommended for guests with limited mobility however locations visited eduring the tour are not wheelchair accessible. The order of sights visited and actual tour duration may vary. Please note that the City Hall can close on short notice due to private functions.

Experience the scenic beauty and landmarks of Stockholm from a unique perspective during this sightseeing excursion through the city, with a picturesque ride aboard the SkyView.

SkyView Centre

Depart the pier for the brief drive to the Ericsson Globe Arena. The arena resembles a giant golf ball, and is the largest spherical building in the world. Upon arrival, proceed to the SkyView Centre for an opportunity to ride the SkyView, one of the most remarkable new attractions in Sweden. During your exhilarating, two-minute ride to the top of the globe, the 'bubble' stops a height of approximately 427 feet (about 130 metres) for magnificent vistas overlooking the city.

Stockholm Panoramic City Tour

Next, re-board your coach for a panoramic sightseeing drive through the Stockholm. Along the way, a photo stop is made at Fjällgatan, which is spread over 14 islands and offers a wonderful view of the city. From here, pass by the enchanting Medieval Old Town, 'Gamla Stan', the Royal Palace perched over Stockholm's inner harbour, the Royal Dramatic Theatre along Strandvägen, and the island of Djurgården. This island features splendid parklands, gardens and museums, and is regarded as Stockholm's amusement and recreation centre.

Your drive continues through Östermalm, a fashionable neighbourhood of stately apartment buildings leading to the modern shopping and business areas. On the island of Kungsholmen, view the impressive City Hall, renowned for its architecture, mosaics and as the site of the annual Nobel Prize Banquet.

Your tour concludes with a drive south via the Western Bridge to Södermalm before returning to the pier.

Please note: This requires a minimal amount of walking for approximately 656 feet (about 200 metres), and is suitable for guests with limited mobility and those who utilise a wheelchair, however guests must be able to get on/off the coach with minimal assistance. This tour is not recommended for guests with a fear of heights. The tour sequence may vary. SkyView gondola may not be exclusive to Silversea guests.

Experience the spectacular waterways and sights of Stockholm from a unique perspective during this evening sightseeing excursion via boat.

Stockholm, Lake Mälaren, Baltic Sea, Islands, Bridges

Depart the pier for a scenic, approximately 1.5-hour cruise along the Baltic Sea and Stockholm, strategically built where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic Sea. Often referred to as the 'Beauty on Water', Stockholm is built upon 14 different islands and the mainland, all linked together by over 50 bridges. Water plays an important role in everyday local life. Boating, swimming and fishing are popular activities in this capital city, where over a third of the total surface area is water; an additional third consists of parks and green areas.

Strandvägen, Vasa and Maritime Museums, Djurgårdsbrunn Bay, Embassy District, TV Tower

Enjoy a glass of sparkling wine with snacks whilst cruising the glittering waters of the Baltic Sea, and marvel at the scenic splendour of Stockholm. Cruise along the Strandvägen, the most exclusive street in Stockholm, and pass by the impressive Vasa Museum. Continue further into the Eco Park area and through the bay of Djurgårdsbrunn, passing by Stockholm's embassy district, the TV Tower and Maritime Museum en route.

Stockholm National City Park, Rosendal Palace, Thiel Gallery, Djurgården and Feather Islands

Next, cruise by the Stockholm National City Park. Founded in 1995, the park features a unique blend of nature and culture. Here, find rare species of plants and insects not found elsewhere in Sweden, along with hundreds of protected and architecturally unique buildings, including the Rosendal Palace, Thiel Gallery and Waldemarsudde. From here, ride past the green and lush park areas of Djurgården Island before heading for more open waters towards Fjäderholmarna, the Feather Islands archipelago. A popular recreation area, Fjäderholmarna is also renowned for its lively and unique bird colonies. Cruise around these islands before returning to Stockholm City. Your cruise concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 55-109 yards (about 50 metres-100 metres), with five-seven steps to negotiate to embark/disembark the boat. This tour is not suitable for guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests must be at least 21 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. The tour sequence may vary.

In May 2013, ABBA the museum opened its doors as a part of the new Swedish Music Hall of Fame. ABBA remains Sweden's most successful band of all time, with sales of 378 million albums around the world. ABBA The Museum will span the band's career all the way from the start in 1970, via the breakthrough with 'Waterloo' in 1974, the grand world tours and finally, the split in 1983.

ABBA The Museum

Since then, ABBA has lived on through a wide range of musical projects run by Björn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson, whose musical 'Mamma Mia!' revived the public's interest in ABBA's music yet again. An interest that never seems to fade - in 2013 'ABBA Gold' was officially named the best-selling CD ever in England. The museum will give you an overall picture of the band, the music and success they experienced in the 70 - and 80's.

Don't forget to enjoy the interactive stations; sing and dance with the band as the fifth member, sing karaoke to Dancing queen and more. With your ticket you will get it recorded and can then see it through their web-page when you get back home.

Even though only one ABBA member is born in Stockholm, the city can be considered their home town, as this is the place where they worked and lived for many years. After departing the pier, you will pass the City Hall where Benny performed for the very first time. The Royal Opera was the scene of ABBA's legendary 1976 royal wedding gala performance, and Benny and Anni-Frid at one time lived in the Old Town. Driving through the city areas and passing by most of the main sights you will not miss out on the city highlights!

Please note: This tour requires a minimum amount of walking .5 miles (0.8 kilometres). This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility and those who utilise wheelchair however; guests must be able to embark and disembark the coach with minimal assistance. The tour sequence may vary.

Savour a wonderful selection of Nordic flavours and specialities during this memorable, half-day culinary excursion to Stockholm.

Stockholm

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 30-minute drive to the centre of Stockholm, strategically built where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic Sea. Stockholm is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and a veritable 'smörgåsbord' of lovely buildings, greenery and water. With a history stretching 750 years back and a rich, cultural life, Stockholm abounds with picturesque city and seascapes, cultural activities, and delicious cuisine. Food has been in focus during the last decade, as new and innovative restaurants and bars are opening up on every corner, and a culinary boom is currently taking place here. Upon arrival in Stockholm City, begin your guided Nordic food walk.

City Centre, Concert Hall, Hötorgshallen Food Market, Tastings of Nordic Specialities together with a small aquavit, beer and wine

Your gastronomical journey begins with a visit to the old food market, the Hötorgshallen, or 'Haymarket', located in the city centre next to the Concert Hall. The first Hötorgshallen stood on this site in the 1880s. Today, vendors from all over the world share the space in Hötorgshallen. Ranging from north-to-south, east-to-west and salty-to-sweet, this guided walking tour offers a unique opportunity to sample the pure flavours and high quality ingredients of Nordic cuisine. Learn about Nordic food, history and culture, meet enthusiastic vendors and chefs with a true passion for their craft and cuisine, and sample a delightful array of Nordic specialities, with a small aquavit, beer and wine at specially selected locations. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.6 miles (about one kilometre), at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear warm, comfortable clothing in layers with flat, closed-toe walking shoes. Guests must be at least 21 years old to participate in tastings of alcoholic beverages. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Explore Stockholm at your leisure during your full-day (8-hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, and is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Stockholm at your leisure during your half-day (4-hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. P lease see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Stockholm at your leisure during your full-day (8-hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 6 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this programme. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Stockholm at your leisure during your half-day (4-hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 6 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Discover the splendid, Old World beauty and landmarks of Stockholm by land and sea during this panoramic, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Stockholm Sightseeing Drive

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 30-minute sightseeing drive to Strömkajen. En route, highlights include the must-see Fjällgatan, which offers a magnificent view of the city, enchanting, medieval Old Town, or 'Gamla Stan', with the Royal Palace overlooking Stockholm's inner-harbour, and numerous other magnificent old houses and palaces. From here, pass by the Royal Opera House, and through the modern shopping and business areas.

Royal Canal Boat Cruise

Upon arrival at Strömkajen, leave your coach and embark a private boat for an approximately 50-minute 'Royal Canal' tour. Enter the Eco Park, Stockholm's National City Park, and cruise along Strandvägen, one of the most exclusive areas in Stockholm. Your route then passes though the lush green park areas of Djurgården. Once a royal hunting area, it is today regarded as Stockholm's amusement and recreation centre, with wonderful parklands, numerous cafés and restaurants, the Gröna Lund Tivoli, Skansen Open-Air Museum and renowned Vasa Museum, which houses the 17th-century warship, the Vasa. Entering the more open waters, pass by Fjäderholmarna, an archipelago known as the 'Feather Islands', Prince Eugen's Waldemarsudde, the Gröna Lund Tivoli, and much more.

Strandvägen, Djurgården, Östermalm and Stockholm

Following your boat cruise, disembark the boat, re-board your coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier. En route, drive along the Strandvägen, then across the bridge to the Island of Djurgården and through the exclusive residential areas of Östermalm before returning to Stockholm City and your ship.

Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of walking for approximately 109 yards (about 100 metres), with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and five-seven steps to embark/disembark the boat. This tour is not suitable for guests prone to motion sickness, guests prone to seasickness, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection and a sweater or light jacket from the ship. Guests must be at least eight years old to participate on this tour. The tour sequence may vary. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions.

Experience the splendid natural beauty of the Porvoo Archipelago in a unique and exciting new way during this exhilarating, half-day boating excursion.

Porvoo Archipelago and Emäsalo Island

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 45-minute drive to Emäsalo Island, which is located in the Porvoo Archipelago. Following an initial briefing and familiarization guests will play an active role by driving their own motorized 'Bat Max' boat, which can accommodate 2 guests (one driving one passenger). You will follow the lead boat, which will navigate you through picturesque areas of this world renowned archipelago.

Boat Tour with Lunch

Along the way, take in spectacular panoramic vistas of your surrounds. A stop is made on a tiny, uninhabited island for a light lunch. During lunch your guide will recount legendary stories about the history of the area.

Following lunch, embark your boat and return to the boat-launch area, your awaiting coach will commence the approximately 45-minute drive back to the pier.

Please note:Guests will be driving their own bat max boat and will follow the lead. This tour involves an extensive amount of activity and a moderate amount of walking for approximately 547 yards (about 500 metres), at times on uneven surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and embark/disembark the boat. A certain amount of physical agility is required to board the boat. This tour is recommended for guests in good physical condition, and not suitable for pregnant guests, guests with limited mobility,guests who utilise a wheelchair and for those guests who suffer from seasickness. Please be reminded that sea condition may be choppy during the ride. Pregnant women and guests with back/neck injuries or heart conditions are not permitted on this excursion.Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, non-slip boat shoes, and bring sun protection and a towel from the ship; a life vest and wind/waterproof gear are provided. Guests must be at least 10 years old to participate on this tour. The maximum height of each guest must not exceed 6.5 feet (two metres). The maximum weight for each guest is 280 pounds (130 kilograms). A signed waiver is required to participate on this tour. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Explore the scenic splendour and history of Helsinki from a unique perspective during this evening canal cruise excursion.

Helsinki Canal Cruise and Suomenlinna Fortress

Depart the pier for the short walk to your awaiting private boat. Upon arrival, embark the vessel for a panoramic, approximately 1.5-hour sightseeing cruise. As you ride along the canals, see a host of landmarks that include the spectacular Suomenlinna, an 18th-century fortress so impressive that it has been deemed an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built during the Swedish rule of Finland, it spans several small islands.

Waterfront Saunas, Old Villas, Helsinki Zoo, Giant Icebreakers

Next, savour some canapes and a glass of sparkling wine whilst marvelling at this unique urban archipelago, which boasts waterfront saunas and numerous old villas. Keep an eye out for the Helsinki Zoo and giant icebreakers as you learn about the vibrant history of Helsinki, and the city's long-standing relationship with the sea. At the conclusion of your evening cruise, disembark the boat and commence the short walk back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 218 yards (about 200 metres), at times over cobblestone surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to embark/disembark the boat. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility, but is not wheelchair-accessible. Warm, comfortable clothing in layers with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Guests must be at least 21 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Explore the most scenic parts of Helsinki and its environs in a unique new way during this tour, invigorating eco-tour via bicycle.

Depart the pier with your guide for a scenic, approximate three and a half-hour bicycle tour through the heart of the beautiful city of Helsinki. Along the way, cycle through green areas and parks, pass by museums, admire the sea and feel the spirit of the downtown area.

During the bicycle ride several stops will be made en route, your guide informs you about the history and culture of Helsinki.

Next, cycle by the waterfront, and pass by the residence of Finland's president and the summer home of the Prime Minister of Finland. Your bicycle tour then continues through small islands, and past private homes in the suburbs. At the Helsinki technological area, catch a glimpse of the main headquarters of such companies as Kone Elevators.

A stop is then made for a fruit accompanied by orange juice or water before proceeding along the coastal roads to the ship building yard, where some of the world's cruise ships have been built.

After a brief respite at the Church of Temppeliaukio, or 'Church of the Rock', proceed to the Jean Sibelius Monument, which is comprised of over 600 steel pipes and honours the renowned Finnish composer, Jean Sibelius.

The final stretch of your tour continues to Senate Square, and then concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour requires an extensive amount of activity, and is recommended only for guests in good physical condition. This tour is not suitable for guests under the age of 12, guests with limited mobility, or those guests who utilise a wheelchair. This tour is approximately three and a half hours in duration, and almost all of the riding takes place along bicycle paths. This tour operates in all weather conditions; raincoats are provided if needed. Wear comfortable clothing, and bring a hat, bottled water and sunglasses from the ship. Guests must be confident bicycling, there are parts of the tour which will come across roads with cars and people crossing the streets. The tour sequence may vary. Helmets are provided and are required to be worn.

Experience the splendid beauty, architecture and landmarks of Helsinki during this scenic, half-day sightseeing tour of the city.

Depart the pier for the brief drive into Helsinki, the Daughter of the Baltic Sea and capital of Finland. Wonderful architecture, green parks and the beautiful archipelago surrounding the city highlight, Helsinki.

En route, pass the Finlandia hall, Finnish National Opera before you make a stop at the unique church of Temppeliaukio, more commonly known as the Rock Church because it is built into solid rock.

Sibelius Monument & Church Of The Rock

The unique Sibelius Monument is comprised of over 600 steel pipes, and honours the renowned Finnish composer, Jean Sibelius. From here, proceed for a visit to the Church of Temppeliaukio, also known as the 'Church of the Rock'. This simple yet beautiful church was built into the rock after blasting through more than 100 feet (34 metres) of solid granite.

National Hall:

Here you will enjoy an authentic and entertaining musical experience. Quality live music performance of Sibelius's compositions such as Finlandia, Spruce, Romance, Rondino, Souvenir and Valse Triste, performed live by high standard young pros on violin and grand piano ,accompanied by moderated show with visual illustration of Finnish nature on screen.After this fascinating moment of music you will receive a Sibelius cd with a booklet and a refreshing non-alcoholic drink with local flavors to be enjoyed together with the musicians.

Senate Square

This Neo-Classical-style square is the heart of the city, and one of the most beautiful urban squares in the world. It features important monuments that include the University of Helsinki, the Government Palace and the magnificent Lutheran Cathedral. Completed in 1852, the cathedral dominates the square and can be seen from far out at sea.

Market Square

Depart the Senate Square on foot and commence your guided walking tour of the Market Square. The Market Square is the daily shopping centre for fresh fish, vegetables, fruits and flowers. During the summer months, many Finnish handicrafts are offered for sale here. After the stop, the coach will transfer you back to the ship or if time permits stay in the city and enjoy your free time.

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking, and is suitable for guests with limited mobility and those who utilise a wheelchair who can get on/off the coach with minimal assistance. Inside visits to cathedrals and churches may not be possible if a religious service is in progress. The tour sequence may vary. A minimum number of guests per guide is required to operate this programme. It is recommended to wear seasonal clothing and comfortable walking shoes and bring Euros or a credit card for local purchases.

Experience the splendid beauty, architecture and landmarks of Helsinki during this scenic, half-day sightseeing tour of the city.

Depart the pier for the brief drive into Helsinki, the Daughter of the Baltic Sea and capital of Finland. Wonderful architecture, green parks and the beautiful archipelago surrounding the city highlight, Helsinki.

En route, pass the Finlandia hall, Finnish National Opera before you make a stop at the unique church of Temppeliaukio, more commonly known as the Rock Church because it is built into solid rock.

Sibelius Monument & Church Of The Rock

The unique Sibelius Monument is comprised of over 600 steel pipes, and honours the renowned Finnish composer, Jean Sibelius. From here, proceed for a visit to the Church of Temppeliaukio, also known as the 'Church of the Rock'. This simple yet beautiful church was built into the rock after blasting through more than 100 feet (34 metres) of solid granite.

National Hall:

Here you will enjoy an authentic and entertaining musical experience. Quality live music performance of Sibelius's compositions such as Finlandia, Spruce, Romance, Rondino, Souvenir and Valse Triste, performed live by high standard young pros on violin and grand piano ,accompanied by moderated show with visual illustration of Finnish nature on screen.After this fascinating moment of music you will receive a Sibelius cd with a booklet and a refreshing non-alcoholic drink with local flavors to be enjoyed together with the musicians.

Senate Square

This Neo-Classical-style square is the heart of the city, and one of the most beautiful urban squares in the world. It features important monuments that include the University of Helsinki, the Government Palace and the magnificent Lutheran Cathedral. Completed in 1852, the cathedral dominates the square and can be seen from far out at sea.

Market Square

Depart the Senate Square on foot and commence your guided walking tour of the Market Square. The Market Square is the daily shopping centre for fresh fish, vegetables, fruits and flowers. During the summer months, many Finnish handicrafts are offered for sale here. After the stop, the coach will transfer you back to the ship or if time permits stay in the city and enjoy your free time.

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking, and is suitable for guests with limited mobility and those who utilise a wheelchair who can get on/off the coach with minimal assistance. Inside visits to cathedrals and churches may not be possible if a religious service is in progress. The tour sequence may vary. A minimum number of guests per guide is required to operate this programme. It is recommended to wear seasonal clothing and comfortable walking shoes and bring Euros or a credit card for local purchases.

Experience the picturesque beauty of the Finnish Archipelago in an invigorating new way during this panoramic, half-day kayaking excursion.

Helsinki and Kayak Centre

Depart the pier for the short drive along the coast and suburbs of Helsinki en route to the Kayak Centre. Upon arrival, receive your kayaking and safety instructions, along with a life vest, helmet, rain jacket, kayak, and paddles. Afterward, begin your guided, approximately 2.25-hour kayaking journey.

Guided Kayaking Journey, Finnish Archipelago and Kayak Centre

Along the way, discover numerous islands and diverse birdlife, whilst admiring the stunning scenery and natural beauty of the Finnish Archipelago. During your kayaking tour, a refreshment stop is made on one of the islands before paddling back to the Kayak Centre. Upon arrival, change into dry clothes, then re-board your coach and commence the approximately 40-minute drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of activity, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and embark/disembark the kayak. This tour is recommended for guests who are in good physical condition, and know how to swim well. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear warm, comfortable sportswear in layers with flat, closed-toe sneakers or sandals, and bring a windproof jacket, towel and change of clothing from the ship; jeans are not recommended. Guests must be at least 12 years old to participate on this tour, and minors must be accompanied by a guardian 18 years or older. Children under 14 years old must ride in a double-kayak with an adult; a limited amount of double-kayaks are available for two adults, too. Guests must be at least 3'11" (about 1.2 metres) tall to participate on this tour. Guests weighing over 242 pounds (about 110 kilograms) are not permitted on this tour. This tour operates in wet weather conditions, and a basic rain jacket, life vest, helmet, rain jacket, kayak, and paddles are provided. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Discover the panorama of Helsinki City and the only reindeers in southern Finland during this scenic, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Nuuksio Reindeer Park

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive to the Nuuksio Reindeer Park, home to the only reindeer in southern Finland. Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour through the park, and view and feed the reindeer. Following your tour, proceed for refreshments served over an open fire in an atmospheric Lappish tepee, or 'kota', which is furnished with rustic wooden tables and benches just like in Lapland. Afterward, you can visit the park's small gift shop to browse for souvenirs.

Helsinki City Tour

Next, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 1.5-hour drive back to the pier. En route, take a picturesque sightseeing drive through Helsinki City. Along the way, see the main street of the city, Mannerheim, and pass by the Parliament House, National Museum, Finlandia Hall, new Helsinki Music Centre, Contemporary Art Museum, and more.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 328 yards (about 300 metres), at times over sandy and wooden surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and at the Nuuksio Reindeer Park. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility, but is not wheelchair-accessible. Warm, comfortable clothing in layers with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Explore the highlights of Helsinki City and the Old Town of Porvoo during this panoramic, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Helsinki City Tour, Museums, Senate Square, and Sibelius Park

Depart the pier for a scenic drive through Helsinki City en route to Porvoo. Along the way, pass by the bustling open-air market and grand architectural works, and stop at the expansive Senate Square, located in the heart of the city. Here, see the Lutheran Cathedral and Government Palace.From the Senate Square drive past

New Opera House, Finlandia Hall, National Museum, Presidental Palace, imposing Parliament Building, Contemporary Art Museum, and Sibelius Park, where a photo stop is made at the Sibelius Monument.

Porvoo, Old Town Walking Tour and Old Bridge

Upon arrival in Porvoo, begin your leisurely, guided walking tour of the 14th-century Old Town, the second-oldest in Finland. Along the way, see the medieval Cathedral where Tsar Alexander I convened the Diet (a legislative body) of Porvoo in 1809, and proclaimed Finland a Russian Grand Duchy. Stroll through the picturesque cobblestone streets lined with brightly-painted wooden buildings, and stop at the Old Bridge of Porvoo, which spans the Porvoo River, for a magnificent view of the Old Town.

Free Time,Handicraft Shops and Antique Stores

Following your guided tour, some free time is made available to browse the Old Town. You can browse the handicraft shops and antique stores at your leisure. At the conclusion of your tour, re-board the coach and commence the short drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.24 (about two kilometres), at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. Walking in the Old Town is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Warm, comfortable clothing in layers with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Guests must be at least ten years old to participate on this tour. The tour sequence may vary.

Explore Helsinki at your leisure during your full-day (8 Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, and is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this programme. Please see the Shore Concierge once on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Helsinki at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, and is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this programme. Please see the Shore Concierge once on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Helsinki at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited up to 6 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, and is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this programme. Please see the Shore Concierge once on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore St. Petersburg at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customize your own itinerary once onboard or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Information to help you plan your itinerary:

· Silver Shore Privato is considered a ship-sponsored tour and no individual Russian visa is required.

· The drive between the pier and the center of the city is approximately 20 minutes in each direction. However, as with most large cities, traffic congestion can be an issue and should be anticipated. Please allow adequate travel time in your planning.

· Venues have different days of opening and hours of operation. The chart below is a general guideline.

· Most venues have entrance fees; in addition some venues require extra fees which are not included, and additional charges to bring a camera or video recorder.

· To avoid waiting in line, the local tour operator will secure entrance tickets for your desired program, and your onboard account will be charged per ticket at the end of your touring day.

· Tour duration may be increased beyond the time specified. This must be requested onboard and will result in additional hourly fees.

· Foreign language guides may be requested onboard and are at an additional cost to be advised once availability is confirmed.

· Our onboard Shore Concierge will be pleased to assist you with any further questions and to assist in itinerary planning. Please confirm your venue choices with the team onboard.

· Once onboard the ship you will receive a form for you to confirm your itinerary and to identify the names of the guests in your party, required for disembarkation.

· As St. Petersburg is a most popular destination, please anticipate crowds at most venues, few of which offer any air-conditioning. Dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Catherine Palace: Closed Tuesdays & last Monday of each month

Available during early opening on regular days and special opening on Tuesday 8:30-10:30. Not available in the afternoon.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Not recommended for guests with walking difficulties, about 46 steps. Elevator available ONLY for guests in wheelchairs.

Non-refundable once booked

Allow a Half Day

Central Naval Museum /Artillery Museum: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 11:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

Wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood: Closed Wednesdays

Open: Thu-Tue: 10:30-18:00, evening opening 18:00-22:30 at special price.

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

4 steps to enter the Church; entrance is equipped with a ramp for wheelchairs.

Allow a Half Day

Cruiser Aurora: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 11:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

Steps, not wheelchair accessible

Grand Palace at Peterhof: Closed Mondays & last Tuesday of each month

Available during early opening on regular days 9:00-11:00; 14:30-16:30 and in some cases during special opening on Monday.

Lower Park is open daily 9:00-21:00, fountains operating time 11:00-18:00.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Wheelchairs permitted in park only; 37 steps to cover inside the Palace, no elevators or ramps.

Allow a Full Day

Hermitage Museum: Closed Mondays

Open: Tue-Sat: 10:30-17:00, Sun: 10:30-16:00, Wed, Fri: 10:30-21:00. For Silversea guests also available during early opening 9:00-10:30.

Travel Time (each way): 15-30 minutes

No Air Conditioning, Wheelchair accessible, Considerable walking

Allow a Half Day or Full Day

Hermitage Gold Room: Closed Mondays

Available at advance booking only.

Travel Time (each way): 15-30 minutes

Additional Fee - Must be reserved and prepaid at shoreconcierge@silversea.com

Non- refundable once booked

Allow a Half Day

Menshikov Palace: Closed Mondays

Open: Tue-Sun: 10:30-16:30

Travel Time (each way): 20-30 minutes

Not wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Pavlovsk Palace: Closed last Monday of the month

Open: Sat-Thu: 10:00-18:00

Pavlovsk Park is open daily 6:00-21:00.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Wheelchairs permitted in park only

Allow a Half Day

Peter & Paul Fortress: Open Daily

Open: Wed-Mon: 10:00-18:00, Tues: 10:00-16:00

Travel Time (each way): 30 minutes

Two Steps, venue wheelchair accessible otherwise

Allow a Half Day

Peter's Log Cabin: Closed Tuesday & last Monday of the month

Open: Wed-Mon: 10:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

2 steps to enter the museum

Allow a Half Day

Russian Museum: Closed Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 10:00-18:00, Mon: 10:00-20:00, Thursday: 13:00-21:00

Travel Time (each way): 30 minutes

50 steps to cover inside the museum, but the Museum is wheelchair accessible.

Allow a Half Day

St. Isaac's Cathedral: Closed Wednesdays

Open: Thu-Tue: 10:30-18:00, evening opening 18:00-22:30 at special price.

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

8 high steps to enter the Cathedral; entrance is equipped with a ramp for wheelchairs.

St. Isaac's Colonnade is not wheelchair accessible; there are 265 steps to the observation point.

Allow a Half Day

Synagogue: On Saturdays it's only possible to attend a service, not tours allowed

Open: Sun-Fri: 09:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

21 steps to enter, not wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Yusupov Palace: Open Daily

Open: Mon-Sun: 10:45-17:00

Travel Time (each way): 20-30 minutes

45 steps up to the first floor, 16 narrow steps down to the basement and 12 steps down to the theatre on the first floor

Advance booking is required. Non-refundable once booked.

Allow a Half Day

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 4 guests per minivan. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle; therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program and the cost of the tour may be split between suites. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to confirm your individual itinerary and departure time. Deviations to duration, venue admissions and additional camera or video fees will be charged to your onboard account. Silversea Cruises does not match groups of guests to form a private group for the vehicle.

Explore St. Petersburg at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customize your own itinerary once onboard or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Information to help you plan your itinerary:

· Silver Shore Privato is considered a ship-sponsored tour and no individual Russian visa is required.

· The drive between the pier and the center of the city is approximately 20 minutes in each direction. However, as with most large cities, traffic congestion can be an issue and should be anticipated. Please allow adequate travel time in your planning.

· Venues have different days of opening and hours of operation. The chart below is a general guideline.

· Most venues have entrance fees; in addition some venues require extra fees which are not included, and additional charges to bring a camera or video recorder.

· To avoid waiting in line, the local tour operator will secure entrance tickets for your desired program, and your onboard account will be charged per ticket at the end of your touring day.

· Tour duration may be increased beyond the time specified. This must be requested onboard and will result in additional hourly fees.

· Foreign language guides may be requested onboard and are at an additional cost to be advised once availability is confirmed.

· Our onboard Shore Concierge will be pleased to assist you with any further questions and to assist in itinerary planning. Please confirm your venue choices with the team onboard.

· Once onboard the ship you will receive a form for you to confirm your itinerary and to identify the names of the guests in your party, required for disembarkation.

· As St. Petersburg is a most popular destination, please anticipate crowds at most venues, few of which offer any air-conditioning. Dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Catherine Palace: Closed Tuesdays & last Monday of each month

Available during early opening on regular days and special opening on Tuesday 8:30-10:30. Not available in the afternoon.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Not recommended for guests with walking difficulties, about 46 steps. Elevator available ONLY for guests in wheelchairs.

Non-refundable once booked

Allow a Half Day

Central Naval Museum /Artillery Museum: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 11:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

Wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood: Closed Wednesdays

Open: Thu-Tue: 10:30-18:00, evening opening 18:00-22:30 at special price.

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

4 steps to enter the Church; entrance is equipped with a ramp for wheelchairs.

Allow a Half Day

Cruiser Aurora: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 11:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

Steps, not wheelchair accessible

Grand Palace at Peterhof: Closed Mondays & last Tuesday of each month

Available during early opening on regular days 9:00-11:00; 14:30-16:30 and in some cases during special opening on Monday.

Lower Park is open daily 9:00-21:00, fountains operating time 11:00-18:00.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Wheelchairs permitted in park only; 37 steps to cover inside the Palace, no elevators or ramps.

Allow a Full Day

Hermitage Museum: Closed Mondays

Open: Tue-Sat: 10:30-17:00, Sun: 10:30-16:00, Wed, Fri: 10:30-21:00. For Silversea guests also available during early opening 9:00-10:30.

Travel Time (each way): 15-30 minutes

No Air Conditioning, Wheelchair accessible, Considerable walking

Allow a Half Day or Full Day

Hermitage Gold Room: Closed Mondays

Available at advance booking only.

Travel Time (each way): 15-30 minutes

Additional Fee - Must be reserved and prepaid at shoreconcierge@silversea.com

Non- refundable once booked

Allow a Half Day

Menshikov Palace: Closed Mondays

Open: Tue-Sun: 10:30-16:30

Travel Time (each way): 20-30 minutes

Not wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Pavlovsk Palace: Closed last Monday of the month

Open: Sat-Thu: 10:00-18:00

Pavlovsk Park is open daily 6:00-21:00.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Wheelchairs permitted in park only

Allow a Half Day

Peter & Paul Fortress: Open Daily

Open: Wed-Mon: 10:00-18:00, Tues: 10:00-16:00

Travel Time (each way): 30 minutes

Two Steps, venue wheelchair accessible otherwise

Allow a Half Day

Peter's Log Cabin: Closed Tuesday & last Monday of the month

Open: Wed-Mon: 10:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

2 steps to enter the museum

Allow a Half Day

Russian Museum: Closed Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 10:00-18:00, Mon: 10:00-20:00, Thursday: 13:00-21:00

Travel Time (each way): 30 minutes

50 steps to cover inside the museum, but the Museum is wheelchair accessible.

Allow a Half Day

St. Isaac's Cathedral: Closed Wednesdays

Open: Thu-Tue: 10:30-18:00, evening opening 18:00-22:30 at special price.

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

8 high steps to enter the Cathedral; entrance is equipped with a ramp for wheelchairs.

St. Isaac's Colonnade is not wheelchair accessible; there are 265 steps to the observation point.

Allow a Half Day

Synagogue: On Saturdays it's only possible to attend a service, not tours allowed

Open: Sun-Fri: 09:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

21 steps to enter, not wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Yusupov Palace: Open Daily

Open: Mon-Sun: 10:45-17:00

Travel Time (each way): 20-30 minutes

45 steps up to the first floor, 16 narrow steps down to the basement and 12 steps down to the theatre on the first floor

Advance booking is required. Non-refundable once booked.

Allow a Half Day

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 4 guests per minivan. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle; therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program and the cost of the tour may be split between suites. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to confirm your individual itinerary and departure time. Deviations to duration, venue admissions and additional camera or video fees will be charged to your onboard account. Silversea Cruises does not match groups of guests to form a private group for the vehicle.

Explore St. Petersburg at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customize your own itinerary once onboard or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Information to help you plan your itinerary:

· Silver Shore Privato is considered a ship-sponsored tour and no individual Russian visa is required.

· The drive between the pier and the center of the city is approximately 20 minutes in each direction. However, as with most large cities, traffic congestion can be an issue and should be anticipated. Please allow adequate travel time in your planning.

· Venues have different days of opening and hours of operation. The chart below is a general guideline.

· Most venues have entrance fees; in addition some venues require extra fees which are not included, and additional charges to bring a camera or video recorder.

· To avoid waiting in line, the local tour operator will secure entrance tickets for your desired program, and your onboard account will be charged per ticket at the end of your touring day.

· Tour duration may be increased beyond the time specified. This must be requested onboard and will result in additional hourly fees.

· Foreign language guides may be requested onboard and are at an additional cost to be advised once availability is confirmed.

· Our onboard Shore Concierge will be pleased to assist you with any further questions and to assist in itinerary planning. Please confirm your venue choices with the team onboard.

· Once onboard the ship you will receive a form for you to confirm your itinerary and to identify the names of the guests in your party, required for disembarkation.

· As St. Petersburg is a most popular destination, please anticipate crowds at most venues, few of which offer any air-conditioning. Dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Catherine Palace: Closed Tuesdays & last Monday of each month

Available during early opening on regular days and special opening on Tuesday 8:30-10:30. Not available in the afternoon.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Not recommended for guests with walking difficulties, about 46 steps. Elevator available ONLY for guests in wheelchairs.

Non-refundable once booked

Allow a Half Day

Central Naval Museum /Artillery Museum: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 11:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

Wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood: Closed Wednesdays

Open: Thu-Tue: 10:30-18:00, evening opening 18:00-22:30 at special price.

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

4 steps to enter the Church; entrance is equipped with a ramp for wheelchairs.

Allow a Half Day

Cruiser Aurora: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 11:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

Steps, not wheelchair accessible

Grand Palace at Peterhof: Closed Mondays & last Tuesday of each month

Available during early opening on regular days 9:00-11:00; 14:30-16:30 and in some cases during special opening on Monday.

Lower Park is open daily 9:00-21:00, fountains operating time 11:00-18:00.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Wheelchairs permitted in park only; 37 steps to cover inside the Palace, no elevators or ramps.

Allow a Full Day

Hermitage Museum: Closed Mondays

Open: Tue-Sat: 10:30-17:00, Sun: 10:30-16:00, Wed, Fri: 10:30-21:00. For Silversea guests also available during early opening 9:00-10:30.

Travel Time (each way): 15-30 minutes

No Air Conditioning, Wheelchair accessible, Considerable walking

Allow a Half Day or Full Day

Hermitage Gold Room: Closed Mondays

Available at advance booking only.

Travel Time (each way): 15-30 minutes

Additional Fee - Must be reserved and prepaid at shoreconcierge@silversea.com

Non- refundable once booked

Allow a Half Day

Menshikov Palace: Closed Mondays

Open: Tue-Sun: 10:30-16:30

Travel Time (each way): 20-30 minutes

Not wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Pavlovsk Palace: Closed last Monday of the month

Open: Sat-Thu: 10:00-18:00

Pavlovsk Park is open daily 6:00-21:00.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Wheelchairs permitted in park only

Allow a Half Day

Peter & Paul Fortress: Open Daily

Open: Wed-Mon: 10:00-18:00, Tues: 10:00-16:00

Travel Time (each way): 30 minutes

Two Steps, venue wheelchair accessible otherwise

Allow a Half Day

Peter's Log Cabin: Closed Tuesday & last Monday of the month

Open: Wed-Mon: 10:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

2 steps to enter the museum

Allow a Half Day

Russian Museum: Closed Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 10:00-18:00, Mon: 10:00-20:00, Thursday: 13:00-21:00

Travel Time (each way): 30 minutes

50 steps to cover inside the museum, but the Museum is wheelchair accessible.

Allow a Half Day

St. Isaac's Cathedral: Closed Wednesdays

Open: Thu-Tue: 10:30-18:00, evening opening 18:00-22:30 at special price.

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

8 high steps to enter the Cathedral; entrance is equipped with a ramp for wheelchairs.

St. Isaac's Colonnade is not wheelchair accessible; there are 265 steps to the observation point.

Allow a Half Day

Synagogue: On Saturdays it's only possible to attend a service, not tours allowed

Open: Sun-Fri: 09:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

21 steps to enter, not wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Yusupov Palace: Open Daily

Open: Mon-Sun: 10:45-17:00

Travel Time (each way): 20-30 minutes

45 steps up to the first floor, 16 narrow steps down to the basement and 12 steps down to the theatre on the first floor

Advance booking is required. Non-refundable once booked.

Allow a Half Day

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 8 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle; therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program and the cost of the tour may be split between suites. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to confirm your individual itinerary and departure time. Deviations to duration, venue admissions and additional camera or video fees will be charged to your onboard account. Silversea Cruises does not match groups of guests to form a private group for the vehicle.

The whole world knows that St. Petersburg owes its existence to Peter the Great for all the great accomplishments of his reign including the foundation of a new city on the banks of the Neva River, a new capital of Russia which became the countries "window to the West". On this tour you will visit several sights that still remember the great tsar and retain the atmosphere of the early 18th century.

Menshikov Palace

Depart the pier for a 15-minute coach ride to enjoy an inside visit to the Palace of Alexander Menshikov (1673-1729) who was the best friend and companion of Peter the Great. He came from a very humble background, but was quickly promoted by Peter and eventually became the Governor General of St. Petersburg. Many constructions of the new capital were carried out under his supervision, including the Peter and Paul Fortress and Kronshtadt. Being the Governor General, he commissioned for himself a large palace on Vasilievsky Island where he lived until 1727. The palace was the most luxurious mansion in St. Petersburg and was therefore chosen to host various official functions.

After Peter's death in 1725, Menshikov did his best to ensure that the throne would pass safely to Peter's wife Catherine I, and during the two years of her reign Menshikov effectively ruled the country. In 1727, a few weeks before his daughter's marriage to the young Emperor Peter II, Menshikov was accused of treason and embezzlement and was exiled with his whole family to Siberia where he died in poverty two years later.

Today Menshikov Palace is part of the Hermitage Museum. On the tour of the Palace you will view the original interiors, including the hall, the gala staircase, some rooms decorated in Dutch style with tiles covering the walls and the ceilings. The interiors of the palace are adorned with gold, silver, marble, precious kinds of wood, paintings, moldings, antique Italian sculptures, large Venetian mirrors, crystal chandeliers, walls are upholstered with Chinese silk and tapestries. The palace features rich collections of applied art, sculpture, coins and canvases by Russian and European artists. The Walnut study is especially remarkable. The restorers of the study discovered a fresco dating back to the first quarter of the 18th century under the plafond painted in 1717-1719 by F. Pilmann. It depicts Peter the Great as a victorious warrior.

Log Cabin of Peter the Great

Following the tour of the Menshikov Palace, you will reboard your coach and drive to the Peter's Embankment where the earliest structure of the city still stands - the Log Cabin of Peter the Great. It was built in May 1703 by a team of soldiers for the Tsar just in three days and Peter stayed there from 1703 to 1708. The cabin is only 60 square meters in area. In 1784 the original wooden house was hidden from wind and rain inside a red-brick pavilion, so you will follow your guide inside that brick "case" to view the cabin with your own eyes, but only from outside. However through the open windows you will be able to see the interior of this tiny house - a strange combination of a traditional Russian izba and a Dutch home with large and elaborate windows and high roof, covered with wooden tiles. The living room, the bedroom, and the study, filled with Peter's original belongings, still bear the mark of his presence.

During the Second World War the Cabin of Peter the Great was the first museum to reopen in 1944 after the dramatic 900-day Siege of Leningrad.

Summer Garden Stroll

Across the river from the Log Cabin you can find an old park behind the beautiful wrought iron fence - the Summer Garden. It was the first garden of the new city intended for public promenades and it witnessed the most spectacular moments of the city's early history. It was laid out in the regular geometrical design fashionable in Europe in the early 18^th century: all trees and bushes were trimmed in the most elaborate way, all the alleys were decorated with Italian marble statues and fountains. Inside the Summer Garden you will also view from the outside the Summer Palace of Peter I (now on restoration) - a beautiful example of St. Petersburg's early 18^th century architecture.

Scenic Boat Cruise

Following the walk around the Summer Garden, proceed to the pier located in front of the main entrance to the Garden for a 45-minute boat ride to view more of the city's sites from the water. St. Petersburg was built around a network of canals and rivers, with a total length of about 300 km. They contribute to the unique atmosphere creating a glittery mirror in which the golden domes and fairytale palaces of the city are reflected.

The boat ride ends at the pier where you re-board the coach for the transfer back to your ship.

Please note: Tour involves extensive walking over uneven surfaces, and numerous steps to negotiate. It is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or for those who use a wheelchair. We suggest wearing seasonal clothes.The route of the boat ride may vary due to high water level and bridge repair works. In case of stormy weather, the boat ride may be cancelled

Explore the magnificent beauty and amazing restoration of the Catherine Palace during this scenic and informative half-day visit to Pushkin.

Depart the pier for a scenic, one-hour drive to Pushkin. En route, pass by the landmarks, industrial and residential areas of St. Petersburg. Upon arrival to the parking area, leave the coach for an approximately 15-minute walk to the palace complex, which is embellished with blue and gold tones.

Catherine Palace

Located in Tsarskoye Selo, or 'Tsar's Village', the estate was presented by Peter the Great to his wife Catherine in 1710, and served as the Imperial family's summer residence until the time of the last tsar. A romantic park with mysterious arbours, pavilions, grottoes, and statues surrounds the Catherine Palace. Upon arrival, admire the palace's beautiful, 984-foot (300-metre) azure facades, and then ascend the Great Staircase en route to the beautiful staterooms on the second floor. See the Picture Gallery, Green Dining Room, and the gilded and opulent Great Hall, where official balls and receptions were held.

The highlight of your visit is the restored Amber Room, opened to the public in May 2003 to coincide with the 300th anniversary of St. Petersburg. German emperor Frederick William I originally presented the approximate 16-foot (about 5-metre) high mosaic panels consisting of nearly 100,000 perfectly-fitted pieces to Peter the Great. They were dismantled by German troops in 1941 and shipped to Germany, never to be found again. In 1982, Russian architects and craftsmen studied the old methods of working with amber, and began re-creating the panels and restoring the Amber Room to its original glory.

Following your visit, take a guided, 45-minute walk through the 1,400-acre (566-hectare) park en route to the coach, then commence the one-hour return drive to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking, and numerous steps to negotiate. This tour is not recommended for infants or toddlers, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are encouraged to wear seasonal clothing with flat, comfortable shoes. Guests are provided with special slipcovers to wear over their shoes inside the palace. A café, exchange bureau and souvenir shop is located on the ground floor of Catherine Palace. Some vendors accept credit cards. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. A minimum number of guests per guide is required to operate this programme.

Explore the magnificent beauty and amazing restoration of the Catherine Palace during this scenic and informative half-day visit to Pushkin.

Depart the pier for a scenic, one-hour drive to Pushkin. En route, pass by the landmarks, industrial and residential areas of St. Petersburg. Upon arrival to the parking area, leave the coach for an approximately 15-minute walk to the palace complex, which is embellished with blue and gold tones.

Catherine Palace

Located in Tsarskoye Selo, or 'Tsar's Village', the estate was presented by Peter the Great to his wife Catherine in 1710, and served as the Imperial family's summer residence until the time of the last tsar. A romantic park with mysterious arbours, pavilions, grottoes, and statues surrounds the Catherine Palace. Upon arrival, admire the palace's beautiful, 984-foot (300-metre) azure facades, and then ascend the Great Staircase en route to the beautiful staterooms on the second floor. See the Picture Gallery, Green Dining Room, and the gilded and opulent Great Hall, where official balls and receptions were held.

The highlight of your visit is the restored Amber Room, opened to the public in May 2003 to coincide with the 300th anniversary of St. Petersburg. German emperor Frederick William I originally presented the approximate 16-foot (about 5-metre) high mosaic panels consisting of nearly 100,000 perfectly-fitted pieces to Peter the Great. They were dismantled by German troops in 1941 and shipped to Germany, never to be found again. In 1982, Russian architects and craftsmen studied the old methods of working with amber, and began re-creating the panels and restoring the Amber Room to its original glory.

Following your visit, take a guided, 45-minute walk through the 1,400-acre (566-hectare) park en route to the coach, then commence the one-hour return drive to the pier.

Please note: Tour is Guided in German, minimum amount of guests required to operate. It involves an extensive amount of walking, and numerous steps to negotiate. This tour is not recommended for infants or toddlers, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are encouraged to wear seasonal clothing with flat, comfortable shoes. Guests are provided with special slipcovers to wear over their shoes inside the palace. A café, exchange bureau and souvenir shop is located on the ground floor of Catherine Palace. Some vendors accept credit cards. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. A minimum number of guests per guide is required to operate this programme.

Explore the magnificent beauty and amazing restoration of the Catherine Palace during this scenic and informative half-day visit to Pushkin.

Depart the pier for a scenic, one-hour drive to Pushkin. En route, pass by the landmarks, industrial and residential areas of St. Petersburg. Upon arrival to the parking area, leave the coach for an approximately 15-minute walk to the palace complex, which is embellished with blue and gold tones.

Catherine Palace

Located in Tsarskoye Selo, or 'Tsar's Village', the estate was presented by Peter the Great to his wife Catherine in 1710, and served as the Imperial family's summer residence until the time of the last tsar. A romantic park with mysterious arbours, pavilions, grottoes, and statues surrounds the Catherine Palace. Upon arrival, admire the palace's beautiful, 984-foot (300-metre) azure facades, and then ascend the Great Staircase en route to the beautiful staterooms on the second floor. See the Picture Gallery, Green Dining Room, and the gilded and opulent Great Hall, where official balls and receptions were held.

The highlight of your visit is the restored Amber Room, opened to the public in May 2003 to coincide with the 300th anniversary of St. Petersburg. German emperor Frederick William I originally presented the approximate 16-foot (about 5-metre) high mosaic panels consisting of nearly 100,000 perfectly-fitted pieces to Peter the Great. They were dismantled by German troops in 1941 and shipped to Germany, never to be found again. In 1982, Russian architects and craftsmen studied the old methods of working with amber, and began re-creating the panels and restoring the Amber Room to its original glory.

Following your visit, take a guided, 45-minute walk through the 1,400-acre (566-hectare) park en route to the coach, then commence the one-hour return drive to the pier.

Please note: Tour is Guided in Spanish, minimum amount of guests required to operate. It involves an extensive amount of walking, and numerous steps to negotiate. This tour is not recommended for infants or toddlers, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are encouraged to wear seasonal clothing with flat, comfortable shoes. Guests are provided with special slipcovers to wear over their shoes inside the palace. A café, exchange bureau and souvenir shop is located on the ground floor of Catherine Palace. Some vendors accept credit cards. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. A minimum number of guests per guide is required to operate this programme.

Explore St. Petersburg's most spectacular suburban residences during this memorable, full-day tour of the Catherine and Pavlovsk Palaces.

Catherine Palace

Following an hour-long drive, you will tour the Catherine palace that is considered to be one of the masterpieces of the world architecture. The lavish imperial palace was designed by architect Rastrelli in 1752 for Empress Elizabeth. She named it Catherine Palace in honor of her mother, Catherine I, who originally owned the estate.

You start the tour of the palace from the Great staircase by Monighetty which takes you to the state rooms on the first floor. The interior consists of a seemingly interminable succession of state-rooms, which give the impression of a golden corridor. The highlight of the visit is the splendid Great Hall. Light streams into this glittering hall illuminating the mirrors, gilded carvings and the vast ceiling painting. Of special interest is the Amber Room of the palace that was once considered to be the "Eighth Wonder of the World". You will learn the fascinating story of this room.

After the palace tour, take a brief guided stroll in the 1,400-acre (566-hectare) park. Following your visit to Catherine's Palace, re-board your coach and proceed to a Podvorie Restaurant for a traditional Russian lunch accompanied by folkloric music.

Pavlovsk Palace

Following lunch, you will visit the Palace of Pavlovsk, one of Russia's most beautifully restored palaces which belonged to Emperor Paul I and his wife Maria. The palace remained a residence of the Romanov family until 1915. Though the palace and the park were destroyed in 1941-44, they have been completely restored and present the most complete picture of a royal suburban residence. Pavlovsk is a place that has retained an atmosphere of warm intimacy and sumptuous coziness, which still enchants visitors.

Following your palace tour, take a guided walk in the romantic, 1,800-acre (728-hectare) Pavlovsk Park, one of the finest landscaped parks in Europe. Leaving Pavlovsk Park, re-board your coach for the approximate 1.25-hour return drive to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking, at times over flat and gravel surfaces, with many steps to negotiate inside the palaces. This tour is not recommended for infants and toddlers, guests with limited mobility or guests who utilise a wheelchair. There are no elevators inside the palaces. Guests are encouraged to wear layered clothing and flat, comfortable shoes. Guests are provided with special slipcovers to wear over their shoes inside the palaces. Expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays at the palaces. The tour sequence may vary.

This tour will introduce you to the treasures of Russian jewelry art exhibited in the private Faberge Museum, and allow you to enjoy the great city views from water in a leisurely manner.

Faberge Museum

The private Faberge Museum opened its doors at the renovated Shuvalov Palace in St. Petersburg on November 19, 2013. Here billionaire Viktor Vekselberg has placed his priceless collection of Faberge Eggs on display for the general public.

The collection includes over 4,000 works of art from the late 19th and early 20th century, including fifteen Faberge eggs, nine of which are the famous Imperial Faberge eggs previously owned by the Romanov family.

It took 10 years to create the current collection, and it is still growing. You will see many unique exhibits, among which are other works of the famous jeweler, royal silverware, precious icons and other religious ornaments, collection of paintings on enamel, other objects of decorative and applied art, paintings by famous Russian and foreign artists.

Viktor Vekselberg purchased the famous Malcolm Forbes Faberge Collection from the Forbes family in 2004 for about $100 million. Most notable amongst this collection are the Rosebud Egg, Lilies-of-the-Valley Egg, Coronation Egg and, particularly the Hen Egg and the Order of St. George Egg that represent the first and last eggs received by Empress Maria, wife of Alexander III.

The first Faberge egg was crafted for Emperor Alexander III who had decided to give his wife Maria an Easter Egg in 1885 to celebrate the 20^th anniversary of their betrothal. Known as the Hen Egg, this first Faberge egg was crafted from gold. Its opaque white enameled "shell" opens to reveal its first surprise - a matte yellow gold yolk. This in turn opens to reveal a multicolored gold hen that also opens.

Empress Maria was so delighted by the gift that Alexander appointed Faberge a "goldsmith by special appointment to the Imperial Crown" and commissioned another egg the next year. After that Peter Carl Faberge was apparently given complete freedom for future Imperial Easter Eggs, and their designs become more elaborate. It is believed that even the Tsar didn't know what form they would take: the only requirement was that each contain a surprise.

Canals of St. Petersburg

After visiting the museum, board a canal boat for an hour long ride along the rivers and canals of St. Petersburg to view more of the city's sites from the water. St. Petersburg was built around a network of canals and rivers, which contribute a lot to the great atmosphere of this "Venice of the North".

The canal boat ride ends at a pier where you will re-board the coach for the transfer back to the ship.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, with a few steps to negotiate. This tour is suitable for guests who utilise a wheelchair who can get on and off the coach and boat with little assistance. Canal boat and canal boat pier are not wheelchair accessible. Guests are encouraged to wear layered clothing and flat, comfortable shoes. Photo and video are not allowed in the Faberge Museum. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. The order of sites visited may vary. The route of the boat ride may vary due to high water level and bridge repair works. In case of stormy weather, the boat ride may be cancelled

During the 300 years of its existence St. Petersburg has acquired so much historical importance and witnessed so many turning events that there inevitably appeared a countless number of legends and mysterious stories. During this unique tour ou will learn many interesting facts, rumors, legends and tales about tsars and nobles, writers and musicians, squares and streets, palaces and mansions.

Yusupov Palace

Depart the pier for a 30-minute transfer via coach to the Yusupov Palace associated with one of the most controversial personalities in the Russian history - Grigory Rasputin, and his dramatic assassination.

The Yusupov Palace on the Moika Embankment is an outstanding historic and architectural monument of the late 18th - early 20th centuries. It presents a fine example of the Russian classicism, full of quiet dignity and laconic chic, and preserves the memory of its noble owners, the Yusupov Princes whose wealth could be compared only to that of the Romanovs.

The Yusupovs were great collectors of art, and their collection was known well beyond Russia. After the revolution most of the collection was moved to the Hermitage, though traces of the incredible wealth that once kept this palace pulsating with life still remain: sitting rooms sumptuously decorated in various architectural styles, intricate chandeliers and candelabras, sculptures and paintings. Wandering around the halls of the Yusupov Palace that preserve a sense of the past, you will learn about the refined luxury, exquisite taste, and splendor of the high life, family happiness and human tragedies of the past.

You will be amazed by the sumptuously decorated Yusupov's private theater that looks like a cozy version of the Mariinsky. Composers Franz Liszt and Alexander Dargomyzhsky, opera singer Feodor Chaliapin and ballerina Anna Pavlova performed at concerts in this home theatre, a genuine gem of the Palace.

Not only is the Palace a remarkable architectural monument, but it is also one of the most mysterious places in the city, full of occult memories, a historical site, tied to the fall of Imperial Russia. It was here that Grigory Rasputin, a peasant who had gained control over the tsar's family through his alleged supernatural powers, was murdered by the young prince Felix Yusupov and his associates on the night of December 16-17, 1916, and his death was as mysterious as his life. Your guide will escort you to the cellar, where 'Madame Tussauds' style wax figures reconstitute the whole event for you.

Canal Boat Ride

Following the visit to Yusupov Palace embark a boat for a short cruise along the canals of St. Petersburg that is often called "Venice of the North". Enjoy the beautiful palaces, mansions and churches from a totally different perspective.

Spilled Blood Cathedral

Your next stop is the stunning Spilled Blood Cathedral - certainly one of the symbols of St. Petersburg. This marvelous Russian-style multicolored, onion-domed church was built on the spot where Emperor Alexander II was assassinated on March 1, 1881. Emperor Alexander III decided to build a church at the spot where his father was mortally wounded. Constructed in 1883-1907, the church is designed in the spirit of sixteenth- and seventeenth century Russian architecture, inspired particularly by St. Basil Cathedral on the Red Square in Moscow.

The church stands out for its complicated and picturesque outline, as well as rich and multicolored decoration. Both the interior and exterior of the church is decorated with incredibly detailed 7000 square meters of mosaics, designed and created in Frolovs' workshop to the originals by the most prominent Russian artists of the day: Vasnetsov, Nesterov, Riabushkin and Vrubel. These mosaics are far from being ordinary; their surface was left unpolished, so that they reflect sunlight, which impresses visitors to present day. Inside the cathedral the very spot of the assassination is marked with a marble Shatrovy Cen, a monument to Alexander.

The facades are faced with glazed shaped brick and ceramic tiles as well as decorated with mosaic panels. In the decor of interiors Italian marbles and Russian semiprecious stones are used. Five cupolas of the church, some 1000 square meters in area are covered with jewelry enamel. The belfry is decorated with mosaic coats-of-arms of cities and regions of the Russian empire. The church is interesting as a kind of an architectural accent in classical surroundings.

Please note: Tour involves moderate walking with stairs to negotiate and is not suitable for guests who use a wheelchair. We suggest guests dress in seasonal attire and wear flat, walking shoes. In the event of inclement weather, the boat ride may be substituted with a coach transfer. Order of sites visited may vary.

Find your own treasures and memories to take back home during this half-day shopping and browsing opportunity. This program will allow you some free time in the city at your leisure.

Your tour will begin with a short drive to the Square of Arts dominated by the famous monument to Alexander Pushkin. Every single building facing the square is either a theater or a museum. Here you will find the world-known Russian Museum, the Museum of Ethnography, Mikhailovsky Theater of Opera and Ballet and the State Philharmonic Society. Here the coach will be waiting for you while you enjoy time at leisure walking and shopping along the city's main street - Nevsky Prospect.

Nevsky Prospect, certainly one of the best-known streets in Russia. Cutting right through the St. Petersburg historical center, it runs from the Admiralty to the Moscow Railway Station and then, making a slight curve, to the Alexander Nevsky Monastery. Since the 18^th century it has been the very center of the bustling, rapidly growing city. The street is lined with some of St. Petersburg's most impressive buildings, including beautiful palaces, theaters and churches. You will be passing the beautiful Cathedral of Our Lady of Kazan, the Catholic Church of St. Catherine, and view the fairytale Spilled Blood Cathedral. Nevsky is also the main shopping area for the citizens and guests of St. Petersburg. Here you will find such large shopping centers as Gostiny Dvor, Passage and Grand Palace Boutique Gallery.

The guide will assist and direct you to the type of treasure you are seeking.

After approximately 2,5 hours of free time in the city center with your guide close at hand, re-join the coach for the 20-minute drive back to the pier.

Please note: This is not a guided tour, but a programme that will allow you to have some free time in the city-centre under the supervision of a licensed guide. An individual visa is not required for this programme. This programme involves minimal to moderate walking and is suitable for guests with limited mobility and for those who use a wheelchair. Guests must be able to embark and disembark the coach with minimal assistance. We recommend guests dress in seasonal attire and wear flat walking shoes. Major credit cards and Rubles are accepted in the main stores.

Take a tour to Peterhof - the town of palaces, fountains and gardens, the most brilliant of all the former summer residences of the Russian tsars conceived by Peter the Great to rival Versailles.

The grounds of Peterhof include the Upper and Lower Park and a number of delightful little palaces and pavilions. Crowning the hill is Peter's Grand Palace. It has a commanding view over the Lower Park and the Gulf beyond.

Peterhof Grand Palace

Upon arrival to Peterhof you will proceed to the Upper Park designed as a French formal garden and enter the Grand Palace for an hour-long tour. The original palace was built for Peter the Great in 1714-25 and in 1745-55 it was remodeled to its present baroque glory by Bartolomeo Rastrelli, the favorite architect of Empress Elizabeth. Despite all the damage done to the Grand Palace during WWII, it has been carefully restored and is truly breathtaking.

Enjoy the palace's startling interiors: the Gala Staircase, the Dancing Hall, the Audience Hall and a suite of drawing rooms to Rastrelli's design. You will certainly be impressed by the classical decoration of architect Felton such as the Chesma Hall, the opulent Throne room, the White Dining Room with its unique Wedgwood dinner service. Peter's Oak Study is one of the few rooms to have survived unaltered from the days of Peter the Great. Some of the oak panels are originals by Nicolas Pineau.

Lower Gardens Tour

Descend into the Lower Gardens, a 300-acre fountain park with a number of pavilions and palaces overlooking the Gulf of Finland. The park comprises about 150 fountains including four cascades decorated with gilded statues of mythological characters. Enjoy a stop at the Grand Cascade, the largest fountain ensemble in the world that is justly considered the chief delight of the grounds. A great variety of fountains concentrated in the Lower Park includes the Checker Board Hill Cascade, Golden Hill Cascade, Lion's Cascade, Adam and Eva fountains, the Sun fountain, the Pyramid and lots of others.

Following an hour-long tour of the grounds, board a comfortable hydrofoil and commence on a 30-minute return ride to St. Petersburg.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking over flat and gravel surfaces, with numerous stairs to negotiate and no elevators. This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility and guests who use a wheelchair. Hydrofoil and hydrofoil pier are not wheelchair accessible. Guests are encouraged to wear layered clothing and flat, comfortable shoes. Guests are provided with special slipcovers to wear over their shoes inside the Grand Palace. Photo and video are not allowed in the Peterhof Grand Palace. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. The tour sequence may vary. The hydrofoil may not be exclusive to Silversea guests. A minimum number of guests is required to operate this program.

Take a tour to Peterhof - the town of palaces, fountains and gardens, the most brilliant of all the former summer residences of the Russian tsars conceived by Peter the Great to rival Versailles.

The grounds of Peterhof include the Upper and Lower Park and a number of delightful little palaces and pavilions. Crowning the hill is Peter's Grand Palace. It has a commanding view over the Lower Park and the Gulf beyond.

Peterhof Grand Palace

Upon arrival to Peterhof you will proceed to the Upper Park designed as a French formal garden and enter the Grand Palace for an hour-long tour. The original palace was built for Peter the Great in 1714-25 and in 1745-55 it was remodeled to its present baroque glory by Bartolomeo Rastrelli, the favorite architect of Empress Elizabeth. Despite all the damage done to the Grand Palace during WWII, it has been carefully restored and is truly breathtaking.

Enjoy the palace's startling interiors: the Gala Staircase, the Dancing Hall, the Audience Hall and a suite of drawing rooms to Rastrelli's design. You will certainly be impressed by the classical decoration of architect Felton such as the Chesma Hall, the opulent Throne room, the White Dining Room with its unique Wedgwood dinner service. Peter's Oak Study is one of the few rooms to have survived unaltered from the days of Peter the Great. Some of the oak panels are originals by Nicolas Pineau.

Lower Gardens Tour

Descend into the Lower Gardens, a 300-acre fountain park with a number of pavilions and palaces overlooking the Gulf of Finland. The park comprises about 150 fountains including four cascades decorated with gilded statues of mythological characters. Enjoy a stop at the Grand Cascade, the largest fountain ensemble in the world that is justly considered the chief delight of the grounds. A great variety of fountains concentrated in the Lower Park includes the Checker Board Hill Cascade, Golden Hill Cascade, Lion's Cascade, Adam and Eva fountains, the Sun fountain, the Pyramid and lots of others.

Following an hour-long tour of the grounds, board a comfortable hydrofoil and commence on a 30-minute return ride to St. Petersburg.

Please note: Tour is Guided in German, minimum amount of guests required to operate. It involves an extensive amount of walking over flat and gravel surfaces, with numerous stairs to negotiate and no elevators. This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility and guests who use a wheelchair. Hydrofoil and hydrofoil pier are not wheelchair accessible. Guests are encouraged to wear layered clothing and flat, comfortable shoes. Guests are provided with special slipcovers to wear over their shoes inside the Grand Palace. Photo and video are not allowed in the Peterhof Grand Palace. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. The tour sequence may vary. The hydrofoil may not be exclusive to Silversea guests.

Take a tour to Peterhof - the town of palaces, fountains and gardens, the most brilliant of all the former summer residences of the Russian tsars conceived by Peter the Great to rival Versailles.

The grounds of Peterhof include the Upper and Lower Park and a number of delightful little palaces and pavilions. Crowning the hill is Peter's Grand Palace. It has a commanding view over the Lower Park and the Gulf beyond.

Peterhof Grand Palace

Upon arrival to Peterhof you will proceed to the Upper Park designed as a French formal garden and enter the Grand Palace for an hour-long tour. The original palace was built for Peter the Great in 1714-25 and in 1745-55 it was remodeled to its present baroque glory by Bartolomeo Rastrelli, the favorite architect of Empress Elizabeth. Despite all the damage done to the Grand Palace during WWII, it has been carefully restored and is truly breathtaking.

Enjoy the palace's startling interiors: the Gala Staircase, the Dancing Hall, the Audience Hall and a suite of drawing rooms to Rastrelli's design. You will certainly be impressed by the classical decoration of architect Felton such as the Chesma Hall, the opulent Throne room, the White Dining Room with its unique Wedgwood dinner service. Peter's Oak Study is one of the few rooms to have survived unaltered from the days of Peter the Great. Some of the oak panels are originals by Nicolas Pineau.

Lower Gardens Tour

Descend into the Lower Gardens, a 300-acre fountain park with a number of pavilions and palaces overlooking the Gulf of Finland. The park comprises about 150 fountains including four cascades decorated with gilded statues of mythological characters. Enjoy a stop at the Grand Cascade, the largest fountain ensemble in the world that is justly considered the chief delight of the grounds. A great variety of fountains concentrated in the Lower Park includes the Checker Board Hill Cascade, Golden Hill Cascade, Lion's Cascade, Adam and Eva fountains, the Sun fountain, the Pyramid and lots of others.

Following an hour-long tour of the grounds, board a comfortable hydrofoil and commence on a 30-minute return ride to St. Petersburg.

Please note: Tour is Guided in Spanish, minimum amount of guests required to operate.This tour involves an extensive amount of walking over flat and gravel surfaces, with numerous stairs to negotiate and no elevators. This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility and guests who use a wheelchair. Hydrofoil and hydrofoil pier are not wheelchair accessible. Guests are encouraged to wear layered clothing and flat, comfortable shoes. Guests are provided with special slipcovers to wear over their shoes inside the Grand Palace. Photo and video are not allowed in the Peterhof Grand Palace. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. The tour sequence may vary. The hydrofoil may not be exclusive to Silversea guests.

Explore St. Petersburg at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customize your own itinerary once onboard or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Information to help you plan your itinerary:

· Silver Shore Privato is considered a ship-sponsored tour and no individual Russian visa is required.

· The drive between the pier and the center of the city is approximately 20 minutes in each direction. However, as with most large cities, traffic congestion can be an issue and should be anticipated. Please allow adequate travel time in your planning.

· Venues have different days of opening and hours of operation. The chart below is a general guideline.

· Most venues have entrance fees; in addition some venues require extra fees which are not included, and additional charges to bring a camera or video recorder.

· To avoid waiting in line, the local tour operator will secure entrance tickets for your desired program, and your onboard account will be charged per ticket at the end of your touring day.

· Tour duration may be increased beyond the time specified. This must be requested onboard and will result in additional hourly fees.

· Foreign language guides may be requested onboard and are at an additional cost to be advised once availability is confirmed.

· Our onboard Shore Concierge will be pleased to assist you with any further questions and to assist in itinerary planning. Please confirm your venue choices with the team onboard.

· Once onboard the ship you will receive a form for you to confirm your itinerary and to identify the names of the guests in your party, required for disembarkation.

· As St. Petersburg is a most popular destination, please anticipate crowds at most venues, few of which offer any air-conditioning. Dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Catherine Palace: Closed Tuesdays & last Monday of each month

Available during early opening on regular days and special opening on Tuesday 8:30-10:30. Not available in the afternoon.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Not recommended for guests with walking difficulties, about 46 steps. Elevator available ONLY for guests in wheelchairs.

Non-refundable once booked

Allow a Half Day

Central Naval Museum /Artillery Museum: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 11:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

Wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood: Closed Wednesdays

Open: Thu-Tue: 10:30-18:00, evening opening 18:00-22:30 at special price.

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

4 steps to enter the Church; entrance is equipped with a ramp for wheelchairs.

Allow a Half Day

Cruiser Aurora: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 11:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

Steps, not wheelchair accessible

Grand Palace at Peterhof: Closed Mondays & last Tuesday of each month

Available during early opening on regular days 9:00-11:00; 14:30-16:30 and in some cases during special opening on Monday.

Lower Park is open daily 9:00-21:00, fountains operating time 11:00-18:00.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Wheelchairs permitted in park only; 37 steps to cover inside the Palace, no elevators or ramps.

Allow a Full Day

Hermitage Museum: Closed Mondays

Open: Tue-Sat: 10:30-17:00, Sun: 10:30-16:00, Wed, Fri: 10:30-21:00. For Silversea guests also available during early opening 9:00-10:30.

Travel Time (each way): 15-30 minutes

No Air Conditioning, Wheelchair accessible, Considerable walking

Allow a Half Day or Full Day

Hermitage Gold Room: Closed Mondays

Available at advance booking only.

Travel Time (each way): 15-30 minutes

Additional Fee - Must be reserved and prepaid at shoreconcierge@silversea.com

Non- refundable once booked

Allow a Half Day

Menshikov Palace: Closed Mondays

Open: Tue-Sun: 10:30-16:30

Travel Time (each way): 20-30 minutes

Not wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Pavlovsk Palace: Closed last Monday of the month

Open: Sat-Thu: 10:00-18:00

Pavlovsk Park is open daily 6:00-21:00.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Wheelchairs permitted in park only

Allow a Half Day

Open: Tues-Sun: 10:30-16:30

Peter & Paul Fortress: Open Daily

Open: Wed-Mon: 10:00-18:00, Tues: 10:00-16:00

Travel Time (each way): 30 minutes

Two Steps, venue wheelchair accessible otherwise

Allow a Half Day

Peter's Log Cabin: Closed Tuesday & last Monday of the month

Open: Wed-Mon: 10:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

2 steps to enter the museum

Allow a Half Day

Russian Museum: Closed Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 10:00-18:00, Mon: 10:00-20:00, Thursday: 13:00-21:00

Travel Time (each way): 30 minutes

50 steps to cover inside the museum, but the Museum is wheelchair accessible.

Allow a Half Day

St. Isaac's Cathedral: Closed Wednesdays

Open: Thu-Tue: 10:30-18:00, evening opening 18:00-22:30 at special price.

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

8 high steps to enter the Cathedral; entrance is equipped with a ramp for wheelchairs.

St. Isaac's Colonnade is not wheelchair accessible; there are 265 steps to the observation point.

Allow a Half Day

Synagogue: On Saturdays it's only possible to attend a service, not tours allowed

Open: Sun-Fri: 09:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

21 steps to enter, not wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Yusupov Palace: Open Daily

Open: Mon-Sun: 10:45-17:00

Travel Time (each way): 20-30 minutes

45 steps up to the first floor, 16 narrow steps down to the basement and 12 steps down to the theatre on the first floor

Advance booking is required. Non-refundable once booked.

Allow a Half Day

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car.The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle; therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program and the cost of the tour may be split between suites. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to confirm your individual itinerary and departure time. Deviations to duration, venue admissions and additional camera or video fees will be charged to your onboard account. Silversea Cruises does not match groups of guests to form a private group for the vehicle.

Explore St. Petersburg at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customize your own itinerary once onboard or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Information to help you plan your itinerary:

· Silver Shore Privato is considered a ship-sponsored tour and no individual Russian visa is required.

· The drive between the pier and the center of the city is approximately 20 minutes in each direction. However, as with most large cities, traffic congestion can be an issue and should be anticipated. Please allow adequate travel time in your planning.

· Venues have different days of opening and hours of operation. The chart below is a general guideline.

· Most venues have entrance fees; in addition some venues require extra fees which are not included, and additional charges to bring a camera or video recorder.

· To avoid waiting in line, the local tour operator will secure entrance tickets for your desired program, and your onboard account will be charged per ticket at the end of your touring day.

· Tour duration may be increased beyond the time specified. This must be requested onboard and will result in additional hourly fees.

· Foreign language guides may be requested onboard and are at an additional cost to be advised once availability is confirmed.

· Our onboard Shore Concierge will be pleased to assist you with any further questions and to assist in itinerary planning. Please confirm your venue choices with the team onboard.

· Once onboard the ship you will receive a form for you to confirm your itinerary and to identify the names of the guests in your party, required for disembarkation.

· As St. Petersburg is a most popular destination, please anticipate crowds at most venues, few of which offer any air-conditioning. Dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Catherine Palace: Closed Tuesdays & last Monday of each month

Available during early opening on regular days and special opening on Tuesday 8:30-10:30. Not available in the afternoon.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Not recommended for guests with walking difficulties, about 46 steps. Elevator available ONLY for guests in wheelchairs.

Non-refundable once booked

Allow a Half Day

Central Naval Museum /Artillery Museum: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 11:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

Wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood: Closed Wednesdays

Open: Thu-Tue: 10:30-18:00, evening opening 18:00-22:30 at special price.

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

4 steps to enter the Church; entrance is equipped with a ramp for wheelchairs.

Allow a Half Day

Cruiser Aurora: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 11:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

Steps, not wheelchair accessible

Grand Palace at Peterhof: Closed Mondays & last Tuesday of each month

Available during early opening on regular days 9:00-11:00; 14:30-16:30 and in some cases during special opening on Monday.

Lower Park is open daily 9:00-21:00, fountains operating time 11:00-18:00.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Wheelchairs permitted in park only; 37 steps to cover inside the Palace, no elevators or ramps.

Allow a Full Day

Hermitage Museum: Closed Mondays

Open: Tue-Sat: 10:30-17:00, Sun: 10:30-16:00, Wed, Fri: 10:30-21:00. For Silversea guests also available during early opening 9:00-10:30.

Travel Time (each way): 15-30 minutes

No Air Conditioning, Wheelchair accessible, Considerable walking

Allow a Half Day or Full Day

Hermitage Gold Room: Closed Mondays

Available at advance booking only.

Travel Time (each way): 15-30 minutes

Additional Fee - Must be reserved and prepaid at shoreconcierge@silversea.com

Non- refundable once booked

Allow a Half Day

Menshikov Palace: Closed Mondays

Open: Tue-Sun: 10:30-16:30

Travel Time (each way): 20-30 minutes

Not wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Pavlovsk Palace: Closed last Monday of the month

Open: Sat-Thu: 10:00-18:00

Pavlovsk Park is open daily 6:00-21:00.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Wheelchairs permitted in park only

Allow a Half Day

Peter & Paul Fortress: Open Daily

Open: Wed-Mon: 10:00-18:00, Tues: 10:00-16:00

Travel Time (each way): 30 minutes

Two Steps, venue wheelchair accessible otherwise

Allow a Half Day

Peter's Log Cabin: Closed Tuesday & last Monday of the month

Open: Wed-Mon: 10:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

2 steps to enter the museum

Allow a Half Day

Russian Museum: Closed Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 10:00-18:00, Mon: 10:00-20:00, Thursday: 13:00-21:00

Travel Time (each way): 30 minutes

50 steps to cover inside the museum, but the Museum is wheelchair accessible.

Allow a Half Day

St. Isaac's Cathedral: Closed Wednesdays

Open: Thu-Tue: 10:30-18:00, evening opening 18:00-22:30 at special price.

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

8 high steps to enter the Cathedral; entrance is equipped with a ramp for wheelchairs.

St. Isaac's Colonnade is not wheelchair accessible; there are 265 steps to the observation point.

Allow a Half Day

Synagogue: On Saturdays it's only possible to attend a service, not tours allowed

Open: Sun-Fri: 09:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

21 steps to enter, not wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Yusupov Palace: Open Daily

Open: Mon-Sun: 10:45-17:00

Travel Time (each way): 20-30 minutes

45 steps up to the first floor, 16 narrow steps down to the basement and 12 steps down to the theatre on the first floor

Advance booking is required. Non-refundable once booked.

Allow a Half Day

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities,is per vehicle; therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program and the cost of the tour may be split between suites. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to confirm your individual itinerary and departure time. Deviations to duration, venue admissions and additional camera or video fees will be charged to your onboard account. Silversea Cruises does not match groups of guests to form a private group for the vehicle.

Discover this great historical city from several perspectives, including a boat cruise through its waterways.

Peter the Great ordered that palaces should have a landing on the river, and many of these elaborate structures are best seen from the water. Venture first to St. Isaac's Square where the cathedral's high, gilded cupola can be seen for miles. On the Moika River, embark on a boat ride that passes by the Yusupov Palace, Stroganov Palace, and Michael's Castle. View the multi-colored Church of Our Saviour on the Spilled Blood, the famous Summer Gardens, and the Summer Palace of Peter the Great.

After an hour cruising, board your coach for a short drive to Spilled Blood Cathedral where you will stop for a short photo opportunity. Continue to the Spit of Vasilievsky Island, its historic Rostral Columns and the imposing Peter and Paul Fortress and Cathedral. Drive past the Aurora, the battleship that signalled the start of the Revolution in 1917.

On the way back to the ship pass by the impressive Bronze Horseman statue, a monument to Peter the Great, who built this magnificent city from a marshy swamp.

Please note: This tour requires a minimal amount of walking. The majority of walking occurs at the photo stops and this tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility; however, the boat is not wheelchair-accessible. Guests must also be able to negotiate a few steps to get on/off the motor coaches and 10 to 12 steps to embark/disembark the boat with little-to-no assistance. Guests are encouraged to wear layered clothing with flat, comfortable shoes. The tour sequence may vary, and the tour content is subject to change without prior notice.

Discover this great historical city from several perspectives, including a boat cruise through its waterways.

Peter the Great ordered that palaces should have a landing on the river, and many of these elaborate structures are best seen from the water. Venture first to St. Isaac's Square where the cathedral's high, gilded cupola can be seen for miles. On the Moika River, embark on a boat ride that passes by the Yusupov Palace, Stroganov Palace, and Michael's Castle. View the multi-colored Church of Our Saviour on the Spilled Blood, the famous Summer Gardens, and the Summer Palace of Peter the Great.

After an hour cruising, board your coach for a short drive to Spilled Blood Cathedral where you will stop for a short photo opportunity. Continue to the Spit of Vasilievsky Island, its historic Rostral Columns and the imposing Peter and Paul Fortress and Cathedral. Drive past the Aurora, the battleship that signalled the start of the Revolution in 1917.

On the way back to the ship pass by the impressive Bronze Horseman statue, a monument to Peter the Great, who built this magnificent city from a marshy swamp.

Please note: Tour is Guided in German, a minimum amount of guests required to operate. This tour requires a minimal amount of walking. The majority of walking occurs at the photo stops and this tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility; however, the boat is not wheelchair-accessible. Guests must also be able to negotiate a few steps to get on/off the motor coaches and 10 to 12 steps to embark/disembark the boat with little-to-no assistance. Guests are encouraged to wear layered clothing with flat, comfortable shoes. The tour sequence may vary, and the tour content is subject to change without prior notice.

Discover this great historical city from several perspectives, including a boat cruise through its waterways.

Peter the Great ordered that palaces should have a landing on the river, and many of these elaborate structures are best seen from the water. Venture first to St. Isaac's Square where the cathedral's high, gilded cupola can be seen for miles. On the Moika River, embark on a boat ride that passes by the Yusupov Palace, Stroganov Palace, and Michael's Castle. View the multi-colored Church of Our Saviour on the Spilled Blood, the famous Summer Gardens, and the Summer Palace of Peter the Great.

After an hour cruising, board your coach for a short drive to Spilled Blood Cathedral where you will stop for a short photo opportunity. Continue to the Spit of Vasilievsky Island, its historic Rostral Columns and the imposing Peter and Paul Fortress and Cathedral. Drive past the Aurora, the battleship that signalled the start of the Revolution in 1917.

On the way back to the ship pass by the impressive Bronze Horseman statue, a monument to Peter the Great, who built this magnificent city from a marshy swamp.

Please note: Tour is Guided in German, a minimum amount of guests required to operate. This tour requires a minimal amount of walking. The majority of walking occurs at the photo stops and this tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility; however, the boat is not wheelchair-accessible. Guests must also be able to negotiate a few steps to get on/off the motor coaches and 10 to 12 steps to embark/disembark the boat with little-to-no assistance. Guests are encouraged to wear layered clothing with flat, comfortable shoes. The tour sequence may vary, and the tour content is subject to change without prior notice.

Explore the splendid art, architecture and beauty of the Russian Orthodox churches of St. Petersburg during this memorable cathedral tour.

Depart the pier for the approximate 30-minute drive to the centre of the city to the St. Isaac's Square dominated by the fascinating St. Isaac's Cathedral.

St. Isaac's Cathedral

The opulent interior of this spectacular cathedral spans 43,000 square feet (4,000 square metres), and is filled with hundreds of impressive 19th-century works of art - the iconostasis of white marble with gilding and three rows of mosaic icons surrounding the Royal Gate flanked by two lapis columns and ten columns of malachite. The central iconostasis door reveals a stain glass window. Above the doors is Klodt's gilded sculpture, Christ in Glory. The icons in the church are 19^th century design, executed in a virtuoso mosaic technique, with stones of thousand of tints laid out in such a smooth manner that only from a short distance the mosaic appears to be paintings. The interior of the dome, painted by famous Russian master Carl Brullov, depicts the "Virgin surrounded by Saints". The silver dove, hanging in the cupola, is a symbol of the Holy Spirit. Some 100 kg of pure gold went into gilding the huge dome. The décor of the church was most expensive. The architect used Russian rose marble, gray marble from Finland, green from Genoa, yellow from Sienna; the floors are finished in Russian, Italian and French marble. 14 colored marbles and 43 other types of semiprecious stones and minerals were used for the decoration of the Cathedral.

Spilled Blood Cathedral

Next, re-board your coach for a visit to the Spilled Blood Cathedral. Also known as the 'Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ', this multi-coloured, onion-domed church is one of the most ornate in Russia. Built in the early-20th century on the spot where Alexander II was assassinated in 1881 by terrorists, the church is richly-decorated with different types of marble from all over the world and its walls are covered with exquisite mosaics. Although years of neglect during the Soviet era left the building in poor condition, a painstaking, 27-year restoration led to the reopening of the cathedral in 1997.

Peter and Paul Cathedral

Your final stop is at the Peter and Paul Cathedral, which stands in the heart of the Peter and Paul Fortress, the birthplace of St. Petersburg. Constructed between 1712 and 1733 by the first architect of the city Domenico Trezini, the Cathedral is the highest building in the city - 404 feet high. The spire of the church is topped by an angel holding a cross. This weather-vane is one of the most prominent symbols of St Petersburg.

The interior of the Cathedral is light and airy, with its glittering chandeliers, pink and green Corinthian columns and an opulent gilt iconostasis. This masterpiece of gilded woodcarving was designed by Ivan Zarubny and executed by Moscow Craftsmen.

After Peter's death in 1725, the Cathedral became the burial place of the tsars. All the tombs are of uniform white marble with the exception of especially remarkable tombstones over the graves of Alexander II and his wife Maria. They are carved out of monoliths - green Altai jasper (about 5 tons) and pink Ural rhodonite (over 6.5 tons). Peter himself chose a place for his own grave to the right of the iconostasis. A bronze bust of the tsar and a Pieta group above the tombstone distinguish it. It is often adorned with fresh flowers.

In July 1998 the remains of the last Russian tsar - Nicholas II, his wife and children and the servants who died together with them were buried in St. Catherine's chapel of the Cathedral.

Following your visit, re-board your coach for the approximately 30-minute return drive to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking over flat, gravel and cobbled surfaces, with some steps to negotiate. All venues are equipped with ramps to allow access for guests in wheelchairs. Guests are encouraged to wear layered clothing and flat, comfortable shoes. The tour sequence may vary. A minimum number of guests per guide is required to operate this program.

Explore the splendid art, architecture and beauty of the Russian Orthodox churches of St. Petersburg during this memorable cathedral tour.

Depart the pier for the approximate 30-minute drive to the centre of the city to the St. Isaac's Square dominated by the fascinating St. Isaac's Cathedral.

St. Isaac's Cathedral

The opulent interior of this spectacular cathedral spans 43,000 square feet (4,000 square metres), and is filled with hundreds of impressive 19th-century works of art - the iconostasis of white marble with gilding and three rows of mosaic icons surrounding the Royal Gate flanked by two lapis columns and ten columns of malachite. The central iconostasis door reveals a stain glass window. Above the doors is Klodt's gilded sculpture, Christ in Glory. The icons in the church are 19^th century design, executed in a virtuoso mosaic technique, with stones of thousand of tints laid out in such a smooth manner that only from a short distance the mosaic appears to be paintings. The interior of the dome, painted by famous Russian master Carl Brullov, depicts the "Virgin surrounded by Saints". The silver dove, hanging in the cupola, is a symbol of the Holy Spirit. Some 100 kg of pure gold went into gilding the huge dome. The décor of the church was most expensive. The architect used Russian rose marble, gray marble from Finland, green from Genoa, yellow from Sienna; the floors are finished in Russian, Italian and French marble. 14 colored marbles and 43 other types of semiprecious stones and minerals were used for the decoration of the Cathedral.

Spilled Blood Cathedral

Next, re-board your coach for a visit to the Spilled Blood Cathedral. Also known as the 'Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ', this multi-coloured, onion-domed church is one of the most ornate in Russia. Built in the early-20th century on the spot where Alexander II was assassinated in 1881 by terrorists, the church is richly-decorated with different types of marble from all over the world and its walls are covered with exquisite mosaics. Although years of neglect during the Soviet era left the building in poor condition, a painstaking, 27-year restoration led to the reopening of the cathedral in 1997.

Peter and Paul Cathedral

Your final stop is at the Peter and Paul Cathedral, which stands in the heart of the Peter and Paul Fortress, the birthplace of St. Petersburg. Constructed between 1712 and 1733 by the first architect of the city Domenico Trezini, the Cathedral is the highest building in the city - 404 feet high. The spire of the church is topped by an angel holding a cross. This weather-vane is one of the most prominent symbols of St Petersburg.

The interior of the Cathedral is light and airy, with its glittering chandeliers, pink and green Corinthian columns and an opulent gilt iconostasis. This masterpiece of gilded woodcarving was designed by Ivan Zarubny and executed by Moscow Craftsmen.

After Peter's death in 1725, the Cathedral became the burial place of the tsars. All the tombs are of uniform white marble with the exception of especially remarkable tombstones over the graves of Alexander II and his wife Maria. They are carved out of monoliths - green Altai jasper (about 5 tons) and pink Ural rhodonite (over 6.5 tons). Peter himself chose a place for his own grave to the right of the iconostasis. A bronze bust of the tsar and a Pieta group above the tombstone distinguish it. It is often adorned with fresh flowers.

In July 1998 the remains of the last Russian tsar - Nicholas II, his wife and children and the servants who died together with them were buried in St. Catherine's chapel of the Cathedral.

Following your visit, re-board your coach for the approximately 30-minute return drive to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking over flat, gravel and cobbled surfaces, with some steps to negotiate. All venues are equipped with ramps to allow access for guests in wheelchairs. Guests are encouraged to wear layered clothing and flat, comfortable shoes. The tour sequence may vary. A minimum number of guests per guide is required to operate this program.

Explore the splendid art, architecture and beauty of the Russian Orthodox churches of St. Petersburg during this memorable cathedral tour.

Depart the pier for the approximate 30-minute drive to the centre of the city to the St. Isaac's Square dominated by the fascinating St. Isaac's Cathedral.

St. Isaac's Cathedral

The opulent interior of this spectacular cathedral spans 43,000 square feet (4,000 square metres), and is filled with hundreds of impressive 19th-century works of art - the iconostasis of white marble with gilding and three rows of mosaic icons surrounding the Royal Gate flanked by two lapis columns and ten columns of malachite. The central iconostasis door reveals a stain glass window. Above the doors is Klodt's gilded sculpture, Christ in Glory. The icons in the church are 19^th century design, executed in a virtuoso mosaic technique, with stones of thousand of tints laid out in such a smooth manner that only from a short distance the mosaic appears to be paintings. The interior of the dome, painted by famous Russian master Carl Brullov, depicts the "Virgin surrounded by Saints". The silver dove, hanging in the cupola, is a symbol of the Holy Spirit. Some 100 kg of pure gold went into gilding the huge dome. The décor of the church was most expensive. The architect used Russian rose marble, gray marble from Finland, green from Genoa, yellow from Sienna; the floors are finished in Russian, Italian and French marble. 14 colored marbles and 43 other types of semiprecious stones and minerals were used for the decoration of the Cathedral.

Spilled Blood Cathedral

Next, re-board your coach for a visit to the Spilled Blood Cathedral. Also known as the 'Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ', this multi-coloured, onion-domed church is one of the most ornate in Russia. Built in the early-20th century on the spot where Alexander II was assassinated in 1881 by terrorists, the church is richly-decorated with different types of marble from all over the world and its walls are covered with exquisite mosaics. Although years of neglect during the Soviet era left the building in poor condition, a painstaking, 27-year restoration led to the reopening of the cathedral in 1997.

Peter and Paul Cathedral

Your final stop is at the Peter and Paul Cathedral, which stands in the heart of the Peter and Paul Fortress, the birthplace of St. Petersburg. Constructed between 1712 and 1733 by the first architect of the city Domenico Trezini, the Cathedral is the highest building in the city - 404 feet high. The spire of the church is topped by an angel holding a cross. This weather-vane is one of the most prominent symbols of St Petersburg.

The interior of the Cathedral is light and airy, with its glittering chandeliers, pink and green Corinthian columns and an opulent gilt iconostasis. This masterpiece of gilded woodcarving was designed by Ivan Zarubny and executed by Moscow Craftsmen.

After Peter's death in 1725, the Cathedral became the burial place of the tsars. All the tombs are of uniform white marble with the exception of especially remarkable tombstones over the graves of Alexander II and his wife Maria. They are carved out of monoliths - green Altai jasper (about 5 tons) and pink Ural rhodonite (over 6.5 tons). Peter himself chose a place for his own grave to the right of the iconostasis. A bronze bust of the tsar and a Pieta group above the tombstone distinguish it. It is often adorned with fresh flowers.

In July 1998 the remains of the last Russian tsar - Nicholas II, his wife and children and the servants who died together with them were buried in St. Catherine's chapel of the Cathedral.

Following your visit, re-board your coach for the approximately 30-minute return drive to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking over flat, gravel and cobbled surfaces, with some steps to negotiate. All venues are equipped with ramps to allow access for guests in wheelchairs. Guests are encouraged to wear layered clothing and flat, comfortable shoes. The tour sequence may vary. A minimum number of guests per guide is required to operate this program.

Enjoy the splendor of St. Petersburg during this memorable full-day experience visiting the magnificent Peterhof followed by lunch and inside visits to the remarkable landmarks of the city such as St. Isaac`s Cathedra and Peter & Paul Fortress.

Depart the pier for a one-hour drive to Peterhof - the town of palaces, fountains and gardens, the most brilliant of all the former summer residences of the Russian tsars conceived by Peter the Great to rival Versailles. The grounds of Peterhof include the Upper and Lower Park and a number of delightful little palaces and pavilions. Crowning the hill is Peter's Grand Palace. It has a commanding view over the Lower Park and the Gulf beyond.

Peterhof Palace

Upon arrival to Peterhof you will proceed to the Upper Park designed as a French formal garden and enter the Grand Palace for an hour-long tour. The original palace was built for Peter the Great in 1714-25 and in 1745-55 it was remodeled to its present baroque glory by Bartolomeo Rastrelli, the favorite architect of Empress Elizabeth. Despite all the damage done to the Grand Palace during WWII, it has been carefully restored and is truly breathtaking.

Enjoy the palace's startling interiors: the Gala Staircase, the Dancing Hall, the Audience Hall and a suite of drawing rooms to Rastrelli's design. You will certainly be impressed by the classical decoration of architect Felton such as the Chesma Hall, the opulent Throne room, the White Dining Room with its unique Wedgwood dinner service. Peter's Oak Study is one of the few rooms to have survived unaltered from the days of Peter the Great. Some of the oak panels are originals by Nicolas Pineau.

Lower Gardens Tour

Descend into the Lower Gardens, a 300-acre fountain park with a number of pavilions and palaces overlooking the Gulf of Finland. The park comprises about 150 fountains including four cascades decorated with gilded statues of mythological characters. Enjoy a stop at the Grand Cascade, the largest fountain ensemble in the world that is justly considered the chief delight of the grounds. A great variety of fountains concentrated in the Lower Park includes the Checker Board Hill Cascade, Golden Hill Cascade, Lion's Cascade, Adam and Eva fountains, the Sun fountain, the Pyramid and lots of others.

After lunch, continue exploring the splendid art, architecture and beauty of the Russian Orthodox churches of St. Petersburg.

Your first stop in the city will be a visit to St. Isaac's Square, which is dominated by the magnificent St. Isaac's Cathedral.

St. Isaac's Cathedral

The opulent interior of this spectacular cathedral spans 43,000 square feet (4,000 square metres), and is filled with hundreds of impressive 19th-century works of art - the iconostasis of white marble with gilding and three rows of mosaic icons surrounding the Royal Gate flanked by two lapis columns and ten columns of malachite. The central iconostasis door reveals a stain glass window. Above the doors is Klodt's gilded sculpture, Christ in Glory. The icons in the church are 19^th century design, executed in a virtuoso mosaic technique, with stones of thousand of tints laid out in such a smooth manner that only from a short distance the mosaic appears to be paintings. The interior of the dome, painted by famous Russian master Carl Brullov, depicts the "Virgin surrounded by Saints". The silver dove, hanging in the cupola, is a symbol of the Holy Spirit. Some 100 kg of pure gold went into gilding the huge dome. The décor of the church was most expensive. The architect used Russian rose marble, gray marble from Finland, green from Genoa, yellow from Sienna; the floors are finished in Russian, Italian and French marble. 14 colored marbles and 43 other types of semiprecious stones and minerals were used for the decoration of the Cathedral.

A 15-minute photo stop will be made at the Spilled Blood Cathedral - one of the landmarks of the city. Next re-board your coach for the visit to Peter & Paul Fortress.

Peter and Paul Cathedral

Your final stop is at the Peter and Paul Cathedral, which stands in the heart of the Peter and Paul Fortress. Constructed between 1712 and 1733 by the first architect of the city Domenico Trezini, the Cathedral is the highest building in the city - 404 feet high. The spire of the church is topped by an angel holding a cross. This weather-vane is one of the most prominent symbols of St Petersburg.

The interior of the Cathedral is light and airy, with its glittering chandeliers, pink and green Corinthian columns and an opulent gilt iconostasis. This masterpiece of gilded woodcarving was designed by Ivan Zarubny and executed by Moscow Craftsmen.

After Peter's death in 1725, the Cathedral became the burial place of the tsars. All the tombs are of uniform white marble with the exception of especially remarkable tombstones over the graves of Alexander II and his wife Maria. They are carved out of monoliths - green Altai jasper (about 5 tons) and pink Ural rhodonite (over 6.5 tons). Peter himself chose a place for his own grave to the right of the iconostasis. A bronze bust of the tsar and a Pieta group above the tombstone distinguish it. It is often adorned with fresh flowers.

In July 1998 the remains of the last Russian tsar - Nicholas II, his wife and children and the servants who died together with them were buried in St. Catherine's chapel of the Cathedral.

Following your visit, re-board your coach for the approximately 30-minute return drive to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking over flat, cobbled and gravel surfaces, with numerous stairs to negotiate and no elevators. This tour is not recommended for children or toddlers, guests with limited mobility or guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are encouraged to wear seasonal clothing and flat, comfortable shoes. Guests are provided with special overshoes to wear over their shoes inside the Grand Palace. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. The tour sequence may vary.

Tour the world-famous Hermitage Museum and explore its priceless collection of art.

Hermitage Museum

No visit to St. Petersburg would be complete without a tour of the world-famous Hermitage Museum - the "Crown Jewel" on the museum list in St. Petersburg. Founded in 1764 as a private museum of Catherine the Great to which only she and her closest courtiers had access, today it is Russia's largest art museum that owns an astounding collection of about 3 mln pieces of art.

Start from the Jordan Staircase that will strike you with its splendor, the glimmer of the golden stuccowork and the dazzling whiteness of the marble statues. View the Winter Palace superb staterooms: the Field-marshal's Hall, the Small Throne Room commemorating Peter the Great and his deeds, the Emblem Hall with its vast gilded columns, the Gallery of 1812 displaying portraits of Russian military heroes of the Napoleonic war, the Hall of St. George fitted in Cararra marble and gilt bronze.

Marvel the Pavilion Hall with its slender marble columns supporting an elegant gallery and 28 scintillating cut-glass chandeliers. A real gem in the Hermitage collection is the famous Peacock Clock in a glass cage made by a celebrated English clockmaker in the middle 18th century and presented to Catherine II by her favorite, prince Potyomkin.

You will continue the tour moving from one building into another by covered galleries. Visit the Old Hermitage that houses a vast Italian collection of art boasting such names as Leonardo Da Vinci, Titian, Rafael and Michelangelo. Next, proceed to the New Hermitage and admire spacious Skylight Halls featuring 17-18^th century Italian art and Spanish leading artists of the golden age from El Greco to Murillo, Zurbaran, Velasquez and Goya. Do not miss the Hermitage Rembrandt collection of 23 paintings as well as some great examples of Dutch and Flemish art.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.2 miles (1.9 kilometres). Although this excursion is wheelchair accessible, guests must be accompanied by an assistant in order to stay with the group. Although the museum has elevators, there is a large number of stairs to negotiate throughout the museum and at the entrances. Guests who utilise wheelchairs must advise the Shore Concierge Desk ahead of time in order to pre-arrange the use of the elevators in the Hermitage, which are not accessible to all visitors. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. Flash photography is not allowed. A café and restroom facilities are available at the museum. A minimum number of guests is required to operate this program

Tour the world-famous Hermitage Museum and explore its priceless collection of art.

Hermitage Museum

No visit to St. Petersburg would be complete without a tour of the world-famous Hermitage Museum - the "Crown Jewel" on the museum list in St. Petersburg. Founded in 1764 as a private museum of Catherine the Great to which only she and her closest courtiers had access, today it is Russia's largest art museum that owns an astounding collection of about 3 mln pieces of art.

Start from the Jordan Staircase that will strike you with its splendor, the glimmer of the golden stuccowork and the dazzling whiteness of the marble statues. View the Winter Palace superb staterooms: the Field-marshal's Hall, the Small Throne Room commemorating Peter the Great and his deeds, the Emblem Hall with its vast gilded columns, the Gallery of 1812 displaying portraits of Russian military heroes of the Napoleonic war, the Hall of St. George fitted in Cararra marble and gilt bronze.

Marvel the Pavilion Hall with its slender marble columns supporting an elegant gallery and 28 scintillating cut-glass chandeliers. A real gem in the Hermitage collection is the famous Peacock Clock in a glass cage made by a celebrated English clockmaker in the middle 18th century and presented to Catherine II by her favorite, prince Potyomkin.

You will continue the tour moving from one building into another by covered galleries. Visit the Old Hermitage that houses a vast Italian collection of art boasting such names as Leonardo Da Vinci, Titian, Rafael and Michelangelo. Next, proceed to the New Hermitage and admire spacious Skylight Halls featuring 17-18^th century Italian art and Spanish leading artists of the golden age from El Greco to Murillo, Zurbaran, Velasquez and Goya. Do not miss the Hermitage Rembrandt collection of 23 paintings as well as some great examples of Dutch and Flemish art.

Please note: Tour is guided in German, minimum number of guests is required to operate.It involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.2 miles (1.9 kilometres). Although this excursion is wheelchair accessible, guests must be accompanied by an assistant in order to stay with the group. Although the museum has elevators, there is a large number of stairs to negotiate throughout the museum and at the entrances. Guests who utilise wheelchairs must advise the Shore Concierge Desk ahead of time in order to pre-arrange the use of the elevators in the Hermitage, which are not accessible to all visitors. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. Flash photography is not allowed. A café and restroom facilities are available at the museum.

Tour the world-famous Hermitage Museum and explore its priceless collection of art.

Hermitage Museum

No visit to St. Petersburg would be complete without a tour of the world-famous Hermitage Museum - the "Crown Jewel" on the museum list in St. Petersburg. Founded in 1764 as a private museum of Catherine the Great to which only she and her closest courtiers had access, today it is Russia's largest art museum that owns an astounding collection of about 3 mln pieces of art.

Start from the Jordan Staircase that will strike you with its splendor, the glimmer of the golden stuccowork and the dazzling whiteness of the marble statues. View the Winter Palace superb staterooms: the Field-marshal's Hall, the Small Throne Room commemorating Peter the Great and his deeds, the Emblem Hall with its vast gilded columns, the Gallery of 1812 displaying portraits of Russian military heroes of the Napoleonic war, the Hall of St. George fitted in Cararra marble and gilt bronze.

Marvel the Pavilion Hall with its slender marble columns supporting an elegant gallery and 28 scintillating cut-glass chandeliers. A real gem in the Hermitage collection is the famous Peacock Clock in a glass cage made by a celebrated English clockmaker in the middle 18th century and presented to Catherine II by her favorite, prince Potyomkin.

You will continue the tour moving from one building into another by covered galleries. Visit the Old Hermitage that houses a vast Italian collection of art boasting such names as Leonardo Da Vinci, Titian, Rafael and Michelangelo. Next, proceed to the New Hermitage and admire spacious Skylight Halls featuring 17-18^th century Italian art and Spanish leading artists of the golden age from El Greco to Murillo, Zurbaran, Velasquez and Goya. Do not miss the Hermitage Rembrandt collection of 23 paintings as well as some great examples of Dutch and Flemish art.

Please note: Tour is guided in Spanish, minimum number of guests is required to operate.It involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.2 miles (1.9 kilometres). Although this excursion is wheelchair accessible, guests must be accompanied by an assistant in order to stay with the group. Although the museum has elevators, there is a large number of stairs to negotiate throughout the museum and at the entrances. Guests who utilise wheelchairs must advise the Shore Concierge Desk ahead of time in order to pre-arrange the use of the elevators in the Hermitage, which are not accessible to all visitors. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. Flash photography is not allowed. A café and restroom facilities are available at the museum. A minimum number of guests is required to operate this program

Dramatic political, economic and social changes in Russia have attracted attention of the whole world. Yet, the fact remains that few westerners really understand life in today's Russia. Enjoy a unique look inside country's life affected by the collapse of the Communist regime and subsequent liberalization of the country.

Your tour will start with a short drive to one of the closest underground stations.

Metro Ride

The St. Petersburg subway that is called "metro" in Russian is certainly worth a visit. The first plans to build a metro in St. Petersburg were drawn in 1899, but were not implemented due to the outbreak of WWI and then the Revolution of 1917. In 1941, 8 years after the Moscow metro was opened, construction works began on the Leningrad metro, but a few months later the U.S.S.R. was forced to enter WWII. After the war the construction work resumed and the first metro line (from Avtovo to Ploschad Vosstania) was opened on November 15, 1955 linking all the five railway stations of the city.

From the moment it opened, it was acclaimed as one of the best in the world not only because of its efficiency and cleanliness, but also for its architecture. Today it is the quickest, safest, most reliable and comfortable means of travel. Most of the stations are equipped with escalators. The older stations are richly decorated with polished granite, marble of various colors, stainless steel, bronze, aluminium, synthetic materials, glass, various mosaics, bas-reliefs and sculptures. The new stations are mostly simple and modern in design, but not less impressive. Each station has its own unique design.

The St. Petersburg Metro is also the deepest subway in the world with some stations located more than 100 meters under the ground surface.

Farmer's Market

You will leave Metro at one of the central stations and find yourself near the Kuznechny Food Market. Follow your guide to the market and enjoy a huge variety of food sold there as well as friendly atmosphere. You will even have a chance to sample some of the food.

Russian Vodka Tasting

After the visit to the market, continue to a local Russian restaurant for an enjoyable vodka tasting. You will be treated to a variety of vodkas together with traditional Russian condiments served to complement this famous Russian drink before your return to the ship.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking and is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are encouraged to wear seasonal clothing with flat, comfortable shoes. Photos and video are not allowed during the Metro Ride. Guests receive tokens for entering the metro. The farmer's market may be crowded, we encourage guests to leave their valuables on board the ship and remain aware of your surroundings.

Take a step back in history to the time of Catherine the Great during this exclusive shore excursion. This memorable tour of the Hermitage Museum, and a classical music performance by the State Hermitage Orchestra.

During the time of Catherine the Great, the staterooms of the Royal Winter Residence in St. Petersburg were opened for evening musical receptions for her friends and foreign guests. She would show them new acquisitions for her rapidly growing collection of European paintings. As a special Silversea offer, this 18th-century tradition is revived for your entertainment.

Hermitage Museum / Winter Palace

Depart the pier for the approximate 30-minute drive to the Hermitage Museum. Upon arrival, take a guided tour through the numerous staterooms of the Winter Palace after the museum has closed. Along the way, see the exquisite masterpieces of its famous collection of Western European art.

Following the guided tour, proceed for a champagne reception, followed by a performance of classical music by the State Hermitage Orchestra.

At the conclusion of the concert, re-board your coach for the approximate 30-minute return drive to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves moderate to extensive amount of walking. Although this excursion is wheelchair-accessible, guests must be accompanied by an assistant in order to stay with the group. Although the museum has elevators, there is a large number of stairs to negotiate throughout the museum and at the entrances. Guests who utilise wheelchairs must advise the Shore Concierge Desk ahead of time in order to pre-arrange the use of the elevators in the Hermitage. Guests are encouraged to dress in smart-casual clothing with flat, comfortable shoes. Since this event takes place when the Hermitage is closed, some rooms are not available for viewing and the rooms visited are may be similar to those seen on the tour LED-C. The final route is determined by Hermitage Museum officials and is strictly controlled by security officers. Guests must follow the assigned tour route. Flash photography is not allowed inside the Hermitage. A minimum number of participants is required to operate this programme.

Explore the history of Russian jewellery and view some of its most splendid pieces during this memorable visit to the Gold and Diamond rooms of the Hermitage.

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximate 30-minute drive to the Hermitage Museum. Upon arrival, a visit is made to the Diamond Room.

The Diamond Room

The Diamond Room is home to a significant collection of archaeological finds; the famous Scythian and Greek gold, numerous royal gifts and a fabulous collection of Western European jewellery crafted by the most prominent jewellers of the time. On display are numerous rings, pendants, watches, table decoration, fans, perfume bottles, and bouquets adorned with gold, enamels, emeralds, rubies, sapphires, and pearls once worn by royalty.

A portion of the exhibit is highlighted by a superb collection of royal snuffboxes fashioned by many brilliant masters of the 18th century. The 19th-century jewellery reached its culmination in the works of Carl Fabergé. His fantasy pieces are found throughout the world, and are represented in the collection of the Diamond Room by a copy of the Russian Royal Regalia made for the World Exhibition in Paris.

The Gold Room

A visit is then made to the Gold Room, which feature a unique; three-section collection of jewellery amassed over two centuries and designed by Russian, European and Oriental artists and craftsmen. It was known as the 'Treasure Gallery' under Catherine the Great and augmented to yet greater splendour by her successors.

The 'Gold of Nomads' consists of unique archaeological finds from the North Coast of the Black Sea, Northern Caucasus and Western Siberia, including the Siberian collection of Peter the Great and the fabulous Scythian Gold of the 7th-4th centuries BC. The 'Jewellery Art of the East and South America' is an exquisite selection of Oriental jewellery collections from Central Asia, Caucasus, India, Iran, Turkey, Egypt, Byzantium, Mongolia, China, Indonesia, and South America. The 'Pre-Columbian Jewellery of South America' features a huge variety of polished gemstones in every shape, size and colour.

On this tour, you will also have a chance to see some other parts of the Hermitage Museum such as the gala rooms of the Winter Palace, Departments of Ancient Greece, Rome and Egypt.

Following your visit, re-board the coach for the approximate 30-minute return drive to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.2 miles (1.9 kilometres) and it is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Although the museum has elevators, there is a large number of stairs to negotiate throughout the museum and at the entrances. The museum is push-wheelchair accessible; however wheelchairs are not permitted in the Golden and Diamond Rooms. Photography and video are not allowed. Café and restroom facilities are available at the museum. This popular programme is limited in capacity and guests are encouraged to reserve as early as possible to avoid disappointment. This excursion focuses exclusively on the Gold & Diamond Rooms. The amount of other museum exhibits viewed will depend on the amount of time remaining. Photography is not permitted inside the Gold & Diamond Rooms. The order of sights visited may vary. Tour does not visit the halls containing regular collections. Guests may have to wait for up to 20-minutes for entrance in to the gold and diamond rooms, as entry is strictly supervised by security. This possible waiting time is beyond the control of Silversea Cruises and we appreciate your understanding.

Explore the former residences of Russian Tsars, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the famous Peterhof Lower Gardens, during this visually-stunning, full-day sightseeing excursion.

Peterhof and Tsarina's Pavilion

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive to Peterhof, and a visit to the exquisite, newly-restored Tsarina's and Olga's Pavilions. Built in the 1840s by Emperor Nicholas I for his beloved wife Alexandra and youngest daughter Olga, these architectural gems are located on two small islands in Olga's Pond, opposite the Peterhof Upper Garden. Tsarina's Pavilion includes Greek, Roman and Byzantine influences. Its Dining Room has an original mosaic floor from the excavations of ancient Pompeii, and Alexandra's study is adorned with two unique, 12th-century Byzantine mosaic columns. Highlights include splendid porcelain and bronze clocks and vases, marble and bronze sculptures, beautiful flowerbeds, fountains, Pompeian-style murals, and colourful draperies on the doors and windows.

Olga's Pavilion

Olga's Pavilion is very different from the one built for her mother, Empress Alexandra. This Pavilion was constructed in the style typical for 18th-century southern Italy, and meant to remind Olga of Palermo, which she once visited with her parents. The interior design of Olga's Pavilion is more modest and delicate. Marvel at the exquisite stucco mouldings, inlaid parquet floors, marble fireplaces and wonderful ornaments. The Dining Room and Pantry features different items from Olga's dowry, including silverware, porcelain and linen. After the Russian Revolution of 1917, both pavilions were neglected and almost totally destroyed during World War II. The restoration of these amazing pavilions began in 2001, and they were finally opened for visitors in August 2005.

Peterhof Lower Gardens and Lunch

Next, visit the famous Peterhof Lower Gardens. This approximately 300-acre (about 121-hectare) fountain park features a number of pavilions and palaces overlooking the Gulf of Finland, along with 150 fountains, including four cascades decorated with gilded statues of mythological characters. The park's upper-terrace offers a breath-taking view of the Grand Cascade, the largest fountain ensemble in the world and highlight of this venue. The Statue of Sampson Tearing Open the Jaws of a Lion dominates the Grand Cascade. Other fountains include the Checker Board Hill Cascade, Golden Hill Cascade, Lion's Cascade, Adam and Eva Fountains with statues by Bonazza, the Sun Fountain, Pyramid, and more. Following your tour, proceed for a Russian lunch at one of the finest restaurants in Peterhof.

Chinese Palace and Park of Oranienbaum

After lunch, re-board your coach and head for a visit to the 18th-century Chinese Palace and Park of Oranienbaum, located on the southern shore of the Gulf of Finland opposite the town-fortress Kronshtadt. The Chinese Palace features the unique Glass Beads Study where walls are covered with twelve panels with glass beads embroidery according the fantastic pictures of the French artist of the 18^th century J. Pillman. The interior décor includes an astonishing variety of art means and materials, decorative painting, furniture, porcelain and bronze. The palace's 17 interiors have picturesque decorated ceilings, with 12 of them made by Venetian Academy masters. The Park of Oranienbaum features approximately 3,229 square feet (about 722 square metres) of the rarest local and foreign wood. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and at the sites visited. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring a sweater or light jacket from the ship.

Relive the luxury of 18th-century Imperial Russia during this unforgettable, half-day evening excursion to one of the most amazing royal palaces.

Catherine Palace

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive south to Pushkin, and a visit to the lavish Catherine Palace, formerly 'Tsarkoye Selo'. Upon arrival, you are greeted by Royal Guards in front of the palace, which features a stunning, approximately 984-foot-long (about 300-metre-long) aqua blue and white facade adorned with a profusion of atlantes, columns, pilasters and ornamental window framings.

Palace Tour, Golden Suite of Rooms, Amber Room and Grand Hall

This beautiful summer residence is renowned for its splendid interior, luxurious furnishings and fine china.

During your guided walking tour, view an exhibition of the Romanovs' portraits and private rooms before entering the Golden Suite of Rooms, where the world-renowned Amber Room is located. Presented in 1717 to Peter the Great by King Friedrich Wilhelm, the exquisite Amber Room was once considered to be the 'Eighth Wonder of the World'. Continue to the Grand Hall, which is highlighted by large windows, mirrors, gilded carvings and vast ceiling art, for a gala champagne reception accompanied by an orchestral performance of classical music.

Imperial Carriage Museum and Dinner

Following the reception, descend the main staircase to the courtyard, where the pageantry continues. The Imperial Guards parade to the music, and a carriage arrives with the royal couple for a final dance before departing. Leaving Catherine Palace, re-board your coach and head to the Imperial Carriage Museum. Here, marvel at the 23 coaches that were owned by renowned, 18th-century and 19th-century Russian and western European masters, and once carried Russia's highest nobility. Afterward, re-board your coach and proceed for excellent dinner and a performance by a Russia folkloric group at one of the finest restaurants outside of St. Petersburg. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, with up to 60 steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and at the sites visited. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and is not wheelchair-accessible. Guests are advised to wear appropriate evening wear with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring a sweater or light jacket from the ship. Guests must be at least 21 years old to be served alcoholic beverages.

Embrace the two most popular museums of St. Petersburg - the world-famous Hermitage Museum and the new private Faberge Museum.

Hermitage Museum

No visit to St. Petersburg would be complete without a tour of the world-famous Hermitage Museum - the "Crown Jewel" on the museum list in St. Petersburg. Founded in 1764 as a private museum of Catherine the Great to which only she and her closest courtiers had access, today it is Russia's largest art museum that owns an astounding collection of about 3 mln pieces of art.

Start from the Jordan Staircase that will strike you with its splendor, the glimmer of the golden stuccowork and the dazzling whiteness of the marble statues. View the Winter Palace superb staterooms: the Field-marshal's Hall, the Small Throne Room commemorating Peter the Great and his deeds, the Emblem Hall with its vast gilded columns, the Gallery of 1812 displaying portraits of Russian military heroes of the Napoleonic war, the Hall of St. George fitted in Cararra marble and gilt bronze.

Marvel the Pavilion Hall with its slender marble columns supporting an elegant gallery and 28 scintillating cut-glass chandeliers. A real gem in the Hermitage collection is the famous Peacock Clock in a glass cage made by a celebrated English clockmaker in the middle 18th century and presented to Catherine II by her favorite, prince Potyomkin.

You will continue the tour moving from one building into another by covered galleries. Visit the Old Hermitage that houses a vast Italian collection of art boasting such names as Leonardo Da Vinci, Titian, Rafael and Michelangelo. Next, proceed to the New Hermitage and admire spacious Skylight Halls featuring 17-18^th century Italian art and Spanish leading artists of the golden age from El Greco to Murillo, Zurbaran, Velasquez and Goya. Do not miss the Hermitage Rembrandt collection of 23 paintings as well as some great examples of Dutch and Flemish art.

Following your visit to the main Hermitage building, continue to the recently opened General Staff Building of the Hermitage Museum, which now comprises the famous Impressionists and Post-Impressionists collections. You will have a chance to marvel the works of Renoir, Monet, Gauguin, Van Gogh, Cezanne and others.

Next, take a break for lunch at a local restaurant within walking distance from the Hermitage.

Faberge Museum

The private Faberge Museum opened its doors at the renovated Shuvalov Palace in St. Petersburg on November 19, 2013. Here billionaire Viktor Vekselberg has placed his priceless collection of Faberge Eggs on display for the public. The collection includes over 4,000 works of art from the late 19th and early 20th century, including fifteen Faberge eggs, nine of which are the famous Imperial Faberge eggs previously owned by the Romanov family.

It took 10 years to create the current collection, and it is still growing. You will see many unique exhibits, among which are other works of the famous jeweler, royal silverware, precious icons and other religious ornaments, collection of paintings on enamel, other objects of decorative and applied art, paintings by famous Russian and foreign artists.

Viktor Vekselberg purchased the famous Malcolm Forbes Faberge Collection from the Forbes family in 2004 for about $100 million. Most notable amongst this collection are the Rosebud Egg, Lilies-of-the-Valley Egg, Coronation Egg and, particularly the Hen Egg and the Order of St. George Egg that represent the first and last eggs received by Empress Maria, wife of Alexander III.

The first Faberge egg was crafted for Emperor Alexander III who had decided to give his wife Maria an Easter Egg in 1885 to celebrate the 20^th anniversary of their betrothal. Known as the Hen Egg, this first Faberge egg was crafted from gold. Its opaque white enameled "shell" opens to reveal its first surprise - a matte yellow gold yolk. This in turn opens to reveal a multicolored gold hen that also opens.

Empress Maria was so delighted by the gift that Alexander appointed Faberge a "goldsmith by special appointment to the Imperial Crown" and commissioned another egg the next year. After that Peter Carl Faberge was apparently given complete freedom for future Imperial Easter Eggs, and their designs become more elaborate. It is believed that even the Tsar didn't know what form they would take: the only requirement was that each contain a surprise.

Vekselberg's nine Imperial Easter Eggs are of the 50 that are left in the world today. Ten are in the Moscow Kremlin Collection, five are at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond, Va., and Britain's Queen Elizabeth II. The whereabouts of eight are unknown. The others are in various displays throughout the U.S., Switzerland and Monaco.

Following the visit to the museum rejoin the coach for the transfer back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 3-4.5 miles. This excursion is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilize a wheelchair. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. Flash photography is not allowed. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended and shorts are not permitted. A minimum number of guests per guide is required to operate this program.

Explore St. Petersburg at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customize your own itinerary once onboard or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Information to help you plan your itinerary:

· Silver Shore Privato is considered a ship-sponsored tour and no individual Russian visa is required.

· The drive between the pier and the center of the city is approximately 20 minutes in each direction. However, as with most large cities, traffic congestion can be an issue and should be anticipated. Please allow adequate travel time in your planning.

· Venues have different days of opening and hours of operation. The chart below is a general guideline.

· Most venues have entrance fees; in addition some venues require extra fees which are not included, and additional charges to bring a camera or video recorder.

· To avoid waiting in line, the local tour operator will secure entrance tickets for your desired program, and your onboard account will be charged per ticket at the end of your touring day.

· Tour duration may be increased beyond the time specified. This must be requested onboard and will result in additional hourly fees.

· Foreign language guides may be requested onboard and are at an additional cost to be advised once availability is confirmed.

· Our onboard Shore Concierge will be pleased to assist you with any further questions and to assist in itinerary planning. Please confirm your venue choices with the team onboard.

· Once onboard the ship you will receive a form for you to confirm your itinerary and to identify the names of the guests in your party, required for disembarkation.

· As St. Petersburg is a most popular destination, please anticipate crowds at most venues, few of which offer any air-conditioning. Dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Catherine Palace: Closed Tuesdays & last Monday of each month

Available during early opening on regular days and special opening on Tuesday 8:30-10:30. Not available in the afternoon.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Not recommended for guests with walking difficulties, about 46 steps. Elevator available ONLY for guests in wheelchairs.

Non-refundable once booked

Allow a Half Day

Central Naval Museum /Artillery Museum: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 11:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

Wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood: Closed Wednesdays

Open: Thu-Tue: 10:30-18:00, evening opening 18:00-22:30 at special price.

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

4 steps to enter the Church; entrance is equipped with a ramp for wheelchairs.

Allow a Half Day

Cruiser Aurora: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 11:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

Steps, not wheelchair accessible

Grand Palace at Peterhof: Closed Mondays & last Tuesday of each month

Available during early opening on regular days 9:00-11:00; 14:30-16:30 and in some cases during special opening on Monday.

Lower Park is open daily 9:00-21:00, fountains operating time 11:00-18:00.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Wheelchairs permitted in park only; 37 steps to cover inside the Palace, no elevators or ramps.

Allow a Full Day

Hermitage Museum: Closed Mondays

Open: Tue-Sat: 10:30-17:00, Sun: 10:30-16:00, Wed, Fri: 10:30-21:00. For Silversea guests also available during early opening 9:00-10:30.

Travel Time (each way): 15-30 minutes

No Air Conditioning, Wheelchair accessible, Considerable walking

Allow a Half Day or Full Day

Hermitage Gold Room: Closed Mondays

Available at advance booking only.

Travel Time (each way): 15-30 minutes

Additional Fee - Must be reserved and prepaid at shoreconcierge@silversea.com

Non- refundable once booked

Allow a Half Day

Menshikov Palace: Closed Mondays

Open: Tue-Sun: 10:30-16:30

Travel Time (each way): 20-30 minutes

Not wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Pavlovsk Palace: Closed last Monday of the month

Open: Sat-Thu: 10:00-18:00

Pavlovsk Park is open daily 6:00-21:00.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Wheelchairs permitted in park only

Allow a Half Day

Peter & Paul Fortress: Open Daily

Open: Wed-Mon: 10:00-18:00, Tues: 10:00-16:00

Travel Time (each way): 30 minutes

Two Steps, venue wheelchair accessible otherwise

Allow a Half Day

Peter's Log Cabin: Closed Tuesday & last Monday of the month

Open: Wed-Mon: 10:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

2 steps to enter the museum

Allow a Half Day

Russian Museum: Closed Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 10:00-18:00, Mon: 10:00-20:00, Thursday: 13:00-21:00

Travel Time (each way): 30 minutes

50 steps to cover inside the museum, but the Museum is wheelchair accessible.

Allow a Half Day

St. Isaac's Cathedral: Closed Wednesdays

Open: Thu-Tue: 10:30-18:00, evening opening 18:00-22:30 at special price.

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

8 high steps to enter the Cathedral; entrance is equipped with a ramp for wheelchairs.

St. Isaac's Colonnade is not wheelchair accessible; there are 265 steps to the observation point.

Allow a Half Day

Synagogue: On Saturdays it's only possible to attend a service, not tours allowed

Open: Sun-Fri: 09:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

21 steps to enter, not wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Yusupov Palace: Open Daily

Open: Mon-Sun: 10:45-17:00

Travel Time (each way): 20-30 minutes

45 steps up to the first floor, 16 narrow steps down to the basement and 12 steps down to the theatre on the first floor

Advance booking is required. Non-refundable once booked.

Allow a Half Day

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 4 guests per minivan. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle; therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program and the cost of the tour may be split between suites. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to confirm your individual itinerary and departure time. Deviations to duration, venue admissions and additional camera or video fees will be charged to your onboard account. Silversea Cruises does not match groups of guests to form a private group for the vehicle.

Explore St. Petersburg at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customize your own itinerary once onboard or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Information to help you plan your itinerary:

· Silver Shore Privato is considered a ship-sponsored tour and no individual Russian visa is required.

· The drive between the pier and the center of the city is approximately 20 minutes in each direction. However, as with most large cities, traffic congestion can be an issue and should be anticipated. Please allow adequate travel time in your planning.

· Venues have different days of opening and hours of operation. The chart below is a general guideline.

· Most venues have entrance fees; in addition some venues require extra fees which are not included, and additional charges to bring a camera or video recorder.

· To avoid waiting in line, the local tour operator will secure entrance tickets for your desired program, and your onboard account will be charged per ticket at the end of your touring day.

· Tour duration may be increased beyond the time specified. This must be requested onboard and will result in additional hourly fees.

· Foreign language guides may be requested onboard and are at an additional cost to be advised once availability is confirmed.

· Our onboard Shore Concierge will be pleased to assist you with any further questions and to assist in itinerary planning. Please confirm your venue choices with the team onboard.

· Once onboard the ship you will receive a form for you to confirm your itinerary and to identify the names of the guests in your party, required for disembarkation.

· As St. Petersburg is a most popular destination, please anticipate crowds at most venues, few of which offer any air-conditioning. Dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Catherine Palace: Closed Tuesdays & last Monday of each month

Available during early opening on regular days and special opening on Tuesday 8:30-10:30. Not available in the afternoon.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Not recommended for guests with walking difficulties, about 46 steps. Elevator available ONLY for guests in wheelchairs.

Non-refundable once booked

Allow a Half Day

Central Naval Museum /Artillery Museum: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 11:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

Wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood: Closed Wednesdays

Open: Thu-Tue: 10:30-18:00, evening opening 18:00-22:30 at special price.

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

4 steps to enter the Church; entrance is equipped with a ramp for wheelchairs.

Allow a Half Day

Cruiser Aurora: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 11:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

Steps, not wheelchair accessible

Grand Palace at Peterhof: Closed Mondays & last Tuesday of each month

Available during early opening on regular days 9:00-11:00; 14:30-16:30 and in some cases during special opening on Monday.

Lower Park is open daily 9:00-21:00, fountains operating time 11:00-18:00.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Wheelchairs permitted in park only; 37 steps to cover inside the Palace, no elevators or ramps.

Allow a Full Day

Hermitage Museum: Closed Mondays

Open: Tue-Sat: 10:30-17:00, Sun: 10:30-16:00, Wed, Fri: 10:30-21:00. For Silversea guests also available during early opening 9:00-10:30.

Travel Time (each way): 15-30 minutes

No Air Conditioning, Wheelchair accessible, Considerable walking

Allow a Half Day or Full Day

Hermitage Gold Room: Closed Mondays

Available at advance booking only.

Travel Time (each way): 15-30 minutes

Additional Fee - Must be reserved and prepaid at shoreconcierge@silversea.com

Non- refundable once booked

Allow a Half Day

Menshikov Palace: Closed Mondays

Open: Tue-Sun: 10:30-16:30

Travel Time (each way): 20-30 minutes

Not wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Pavlovsk Palace: Closed last Monday of the month

Open: Sat-Thu: 10:00-18:00

Pavlovsk Park is open daily 6:00-21:00.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Wheelchairs permitted in park only

Allow a Half Day

Peter & Paul Fortress: Open Daily

Open: Wed-Mon: 10:00-18:00, Tues: 10:00-16:00

Travel Time (each way): 30 minutes

Two Steps, venue wheelchair accessible otherwise

Allow a Half Day

Peter's Log Cabin: Closed Tuesday & last Monday of the month

Open: Wed-Mon: 10:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

2 steps to enter the museum

Allow a Half Day

Russian Museum: Closed Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 10:00-18:00, Mon: 10:00-20:00, Thursday: 13:00-21:00

Travel Time (each way): 30 minutes

50 steps to cover inside the museum, but the Museum is wheelchair accessible.

Allow a Half Day

St. Isaac's Cathedral: Closed Wednesdays

Open: Thu-Tue: 10:30-18:00, evening opening 18:00-22:30 at special price.

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

8 high steps to enter the Cathedral; entrance is equipped with a ramp for wheelchairs.

St. Isaac's Colonnade is not wheelchair accessible; there are 265 steps to the observation point.

Allow a Half Day

Synagogue: On Saturdays it's only possible to attend a service, not tours allowed

Open: Sun-Fri: 09:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

21 steps to enter, not wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Yusupov Palace: Open Daily

Open: Mon-Sun: 10:45-17:00

Travel Time (each way): 20-30 minutes

45 steps up to the first floor, 16 narrow steps down to the basement and 12 steps down to the theatre on the first floor

Advance booking is required. Non-refundable once booked.

Allow a Half Day

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 4 guests per minivan. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle; therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program and the cost of the tour may be split between suites. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to confirm your individual itinerary and departure time. Deviations to duration, venue admissions and additional camera or video fees will be charged to your onboard account. Silversea Cruises does not match groups of guests to form a private group for the vehicle.

Explore St. Petersburg at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customize your own itinerary once onboard or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Information to help you plan your itinerary:

· Silver Shore Privato is considered a ship-sponsored tour and no individual Russian visa is required.

· The drive between the pier and the center of the city is approximately 20 minutes in each direction. However, as with most large cities, traffic congestion can be an issue and should be anticipated. Please allow adequate travel time in your planning.

· Venues have different days of opening and hours of operation. The chart below is a general guideline.

· Most venues have entrance fees; in addition some venues require extra fees which are not included, and additional charges to bring a camera or video recorder.

· To avoid waiting in line, the local tour operator will secure entrance tickets for your desired program, and your onboard account will be charged per ticket at the end of your touring day.

· Tour duration may be increased beyond the time specified. This must be requested onboard and will result in additional hourly fees.

· Foreign language guides may be requested onboard and are at an additional cost to be advised once availability is confirmed.

· Our onboard Shore Concierge will be pleased to assist you with any further questions and to assist in itinerary planning. Please confirm your venue choices with the team onboard.

· Once onboard the ship you will receive a form for you to confirm your itinerary and to identify the names of the guests in your party, required for disembarkation.

· As St. Petersburg is a most popular destination, please anticipate crowds at most venues, few of which offer any air-conditioning. Dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Catherine Palace: Closed Tuesdays & last Monday of each month

Available during early opening on regular days and special opening on Tuesday 8:30-10:30. Not available in the afternoon.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Not recommended for guests with walking difficulties, about 46 steps. Elevator available ONLY for guests in wheelchairs.

Non-refundable once booked

Allow a Half Day

Central Naval Museum /Artillery Museum: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 11:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

Wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood: Closed Wednesdays

Open: Thu-Tue: 10:30-18:00, evening opening 18:00-22:30 at special price.

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

4 steps to enter the Church; entrance is equipped with a ramp for wheelchairs.

Allow a Half Day

Cruiser Aurora: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 11:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

Steps, not wheelchair accessible

Grand Palace at Peterhof: Closed Mondays & last Tuesday of each month

Available during early opening on regular days 9:00-11:00; 14:30-16:30 and in some cases during special opening on Monday.

Lower Park is open daily 9:00-21:00, fountains operating time 11:00-18:00.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Wheelchairs permitted in park only; 37 steps to cover inside the Palace, no elevators or ramps.

Allow a Full Day

Hermitage Museum: Closed Mondays

Open: Tue-Sat: 10:30-17:00, Sun: 10:30-16:00, Wed, Fri: 10:30-21:00. For Silversea guests also available during early opening 9:00-10:30.

Travel Time (each way): 15-30 minutes

No Air Conditioning, Wheelchair accessible, Considerable walking

Allow a Half Day or Full Day

Hermitage Gold Room: Closed Mondays

Available at advance booking only.

Travel Time (each way): 15-30 minutes

Additional Fee - Must be reserved and prepaid at shoreconcierge@silversea.com

Non- refundable once booked

Allow a Half Day

Menshikov Palace: Closed Mondays

Open: Tue-Sun: 10:30-16:30

Travel Time (each way): 20-30 minutes

Not wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Pavlovsk Palace: Closed last Monday of the month

Open: Sat-Thu: 10:00-18:00

Pavlovsk Park is open daily 6:00-21:00.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Wheelchairs permitted in park only

Allow a Half Day

Peter & Paul Fortress: Open Daily

Open: Wed-Mon: 10:00-18:00, Tues: 10:00-16:00

Travel Time (each way): 30 minutes

Two Steps, venue wheelchair accessible otherwise

Allow a Half Day

Peter's Log Cabin: Closed Tuesday & last Monday of the month

Open: Wed-Mon: 10:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

2 steps to enter the museum

Allow a Half Day

Russian Museum: Closed Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 10:00-18:00, Mon: 10:00-20:00, Thursday: 13:00-21:00

Travel Time (each way): 30 minutes

50 steps to cover inside the museum, but the Museum is wheelchair accessible.

Allow a Half Day

St. Isaac's Cathedral: Closed Wednesdays

Open: Thu-Tue: 10:30-18:00, evening opening 18:00-22:30 at special price.

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

8 high steps to enter the Cathedral; entrance is equipped with a ramp for wheelchairs.

St. Isaac's Colonnade is not wheelchair accessible; there are 265 steps to the observation point.

Allow a Half Day

Synagogue: On Saturdays it's only possible to attend a service, not tours allowed

Open: Sun-Fri: 09:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

21 steps to enter, not wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Yusupov Palace: Open Daily

Open: Mon-Sun: 10:45-17:00

Travel Time (each way): 20-30 minutes

45 steps up to the first floor, 16 narrow steps down to the basement and 12 steps down to the theatre on the first floor

Advance booking is required. Non-refundable once booked.

Allow a Half Day

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 8 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle; therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program and the cost of the tour may be split between suites. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to confirm your individual itinerary and departure time. Deviations to duration, venue admissions and additional camera or video fees will be charged to your onboard account. Silversea Cruises does not match groups of guests to form a private group for the vehicle.

The whole world knows that St. Petersburg owes its existence to Peter the Great for all the great accomplishments of his reign including the foundation of a new city on the banks of the Neva River, a new capital of Russia which became the countries "window to the West". On this tour you will visit several sights that still remember the great tsar and retain the atmosphere of the early 18th century.

Menshikov Palace

Depart the pier for a 15-minute coach ride to enjoy an inside visit to the Palace of Alexander Menshikov (1673-1729) who was the best friend and companion of Peter the Great. He came from a very humble background, but was quickly promoted by Peter and eventually became the Governor General of St. Petersburg. Many constructions of the new capital were carried out under his supervision, including the Peter and Paul Fortress and Kronshtadt. Being the Governor General, he commissioned for himself a large palace on Vasilievsky Island where he lived until 1727. The palace was the most luxurious mansion in St. Petersburg and was therefore chosen to host various official functions.

After Peter's death in 1725, Menshikov did his best to ensure that the throne would pass safely to Peter's wife Catherine I, and during the two years of her reign Menshikov effectively ruled the country. In 1727, a few weeks before his daughter's marriage to the young Emperor Peter II, Menshikov was accused of treason and embezzlement and was exiled with his whole family to Siberia where he died in poverty two years later.

Today Menshikov Palace is part of the Hermitage Museum. On the tour of the Palace you will view the original interiors, including the hall, the gala staircase, some rooms decorated in Dutch style with tiles covering the walls and the ceilings. The interiors of the palace are adorned with gold, silver, marble, precious kinds of wood, paintings, moldings, antique Italian sculptures, large Venetian mirrors, crystal chandeliers, walls are upholstered with Chinese silk and tapestries. The palace features rich collections of applied art, sculpture, coins and canvases by Russian and European artists. The Walnut study is especially remarkable. The restorers of the study discovered a fresco dating back to the first quarter of the 18th century under the plafond painted in 1717-1719 by F. Pilmann. It depicts Peter the Great as a victorious warrior.

Log Cabin of Peter the Great

Following the tour of the Menshikov Palace, you will reboard your coach and drive to the Peter's Embankment where the earliest structure of the city still stands - the Log Cabin of Peter the Great. It was built in May 1703 by a team of soldiers for the Tsar just in three days and Peter stayed there from 1703 to 1708. The cabin is only 60 square meters in area. In 1784 the original wooden house was hidden from wind and rain inside a red-brick pavilion, so you will follow your guide inside that brick "case" to view the cabin with your own eyes, but only from outside. However through the open windows you will be able to see the interior of this tiny house - a strange combination of a traditional Russian izba and a Dutch home with large and elaborate windows and high roof, covered with wooden tiles. The living room, the bedroom, and the study, filled with Peter's original belongings, still bear the mark of his presence.

During the Second World War the Cabin of Peter the Great was the first museum to reopen in 1944 after the dramatic 900-day Siege of Leningrad.

Summer Garden Stroll

Across the river from the Log Cabin you can find an old park behind the beautiful wrought iron fence - the Summer Garden. It was the first garden of the new city intended for public promenades and it witnessed the most spectacular moments of the city's early history. It was laid out in the regular geometrical design fashionable in Europe in the early 18^th century: all trees and bushes were trimmed in the most elaborate way, all the alleys were decorated with Italian marble statues and fountains. Inside the Summer Garden you will also view from the outside the Summer Palace of Peter I (now on restoration) - a beautiful example of St. Petersburg's early 18^th century architecture.

Scenic Boat Cruise

Following the walk around the Summer Garden, proceed to the pier located in front of the main entrance to the Garden for a 45-minute boat ride to view more of the city's sites from the water. St. Petersburg was built around a network of canals and rivers, with a total length of about 300 km. They contribute to the unique atmosphere creating a glittery mirror in which the golden domes and fairytale palaces of the city are reflected.

The boat ride ends at the pier where you re-board the coach for the transfer back to your ship.

Please note: Tour involves extensive walking over uneven surfaces, and numerous steps to negotiate. It is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or for those who use a wheelchair. We suggest wearing seasonal clothes.The route of the boat ride may vary due to high water level and bridge repair works. In case of stormy weather, the boat ride may be cancelled

Explore the magnificent beauty and amazing restoration of the Catherine Palace during this scenic and informative half-day visit to Pushkin.

Depart the pier for a scenic, one-hour drive to Pushkin. En route, pass by the landmarks, industrial and residential areas of St. Petersburg. Upon arrival to the parking area, leave the coach for an approximately 15-minute walk to the palace complex, which is embellished with blue and gold tones.

Catherine Palace

Located in Tsarskoye Selo, or 'Tsar's Village', the estate was presented by Peter the Great to his wife Catherine in 1710, and served as the Imperial family's summer residence until the time of the last tsar. A romantic park with mysterious arbours, pavilions, grottoes, and statues surrounds the Catherine Palace. Upon arrival, admire the palace's beautiful, 984-foot (300-metre) azure facades, and then ascend the Great Staircase en route to the beautiful staterooms on the second floor. See the Picture Gallery, Green Dining Room, and the gilded and opulent Great Hall, where official balls and receptions were held.

The highlight of your visit is the restored Amber Room, opened to the public in May 2003 to coincide with the 300th anniversary of St. Petersburg. German emperor Frederick William I originally presented the approximate 16-foot (about 5-metre) high mosaic panels consisting of nearly 100,000 perfectly-fitted pieces to Peter the Great. They were dismantled by German troops in 1941 and shipped to Germany, never to be found again. In 1982, Russian architects and craftsmen studied the old methods of working with amber, and began re-creating the panels and restoring the Amber Room to its original glory.

Following your visit, take a guided, 45-minute walk through the 1,400-acre (566-hectare) park en route to the coach, then commence the one-hour return drive to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking, and numerous steps to negotiate. This tour is not recommended for infants or toddlers, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are encouraged to wear seasonal clothing with flat, comfortable shoes. Guests are provided with special slipcovers to wear over their shoes inside the palace. A café, exchange bureau and souvenir shop is located on the ground floor of Catherine Palace. Some vendors accept credit cards. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. A minimum number of guests per guide is required to operate this programme.

Explore the magnificent beauty and amazing restoration of the Catherine Palace during this scenic and informative half-day visit to Pushkin.

Depart the pier for a scenic, one-hour drive to Pushkin. En route, pass by the landmarks, industrial and residential areas of St. Petersburg. Upon arrival to the parking area, leave the coach for an approximately 15-minute walk to the palace complex, which is embellished with blue and gold tones.

Catherine Palace

Located in Tsarskoye Selo, or 'Tsar's Village', the estate was presented by Peter the Great to his wife Catherine in 1710, and served as the Imperial family's summer residence until the time of the last tsar. A romantic park with mysterious arbours, pavilions, grottoes, and statues surrounds the Catherine Palace. Upon arrival, admire the palace's beautiful, 984-foot (300-metre) azure facades, and then ascend the Great Staircase en route to the beautiful staterooms on the second floor. See the Picture Gallery, Green Dining Room, and the gilded and opulent Great Hall, where official balls and receptions were held.

The highlight of your visit is the restored Amber Room, opened to the public in May 2003 to coincide with the 300th anniversary of St. Petersburg. German emperor Frederick William I originally presented the approximate 16-foot (about 5-metre) high mosaic panels consisting of nearly 100,000 perfectly-fitted pieces to Peter the Great. They were dismantled by German troops in 1941 and shipped to Germany, never to be found again. In 1982, Russian architects and craftsmen studied the old methods of working with amber, and began re-creating the panels and restoring the Amber Room to its original glory.

Following your visit, take a guided, 45-minute walk through the 1,400-acre (566-hectare) park en route to the coach, then commence the one-hour return drive to the pier.

Please note: Tour is Guided in German, minimum amount of guests required to operate. It involves an extensive amount of walking, and numerous steps to negotiate. This tour is not recommended for infants or toddlers, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are encouraged to wear seasonal clothing with flat, comfortable shoes. Guests are provided with special slipcovers to wear over their shoes inside the palace. A café, exchange bureau and souvenir shop is located on the ground floor of Catherine Palace. Some vendors accept credit cards. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. A minimum number of guests per guide is required to operate this programme.

Explore the magnificent beauty and amazing restoration of the Catherine Palace during this scenic and informative half-day visit to Pushkin.

Depart the pier for a scenic, one-hour drive to Pushkin. En route, pass by the landmarks, industrial and residential areas of St. Petersburg. Upon arrival to the parking area, leave the coach for an approximately 15-minute walk to the palace complex, which is embellished with blue and gold tones.

Catherine Palace

Located in Tsarskoye Selo, or 'Tsar's Village', the estate was presented by Peter the Great to his wife Catherine in 1710, and served as the Imperial family's summer residence until the time of the last tsar. A romantic park with mysterious arbours, pavilions, grottoes, and statues surrounds the Catherine Palace. Upon arrival, admire the palace's beautiful, 984-foot (300-metre) azure facades, and then ascend the Great Staircase en route to the beautiful staterooms on the second floor. See the Picture Gallery, Green Dining Room, and the gilded and opulent Great Hall, where official balls and receptions were held.

The highlight of your visit is the restored Amber Room, opened to the public in May 2003 to coincide with the 300th anniversary of St. Petersburg. German emperor Frederick William I originally presented the approximate 16-foot (about 5-metre) high mosaic panels consisting of nearly 100,000 perfectly-fitted pieces to Peter the Great. They were dismantled by German troops in 1941 and shipped to Germany, never to be found again. In 1982, Russian architects and craftsmen studied the old methods of working with amber, and began re-creating the panels and restoring the Amber Room to its original glory.

Following your visit, take a guided, 45-minute walk through the 1,400-acre (566-hectare) park en route to the coach, then commence the one-hour return drive to the pier.

Please note: Tour is Guided in Spanish, minimum amount of guests required to operate. It involves an extensive amount of walking, and numerous steps to negotiate. This tour is not recommended for infants or toddlers, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are encouraged to wear seasonal clothing with flat, comfortable shoes. Guests are provided with special slipcovers to wear over their shoes inside the palace. A café, exchange bureau and souvenir shop is located on the ground floor of Catherine Palace. Some vendors accept credit cards. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. A minimum number of guests per guide is required to operate this programme.

Explore St. Petersburg's most spectacular suburban residences during this memorable, full-day tour of the Catherine and Pavlovsk Palaces.

Catherine Palace

Following an hour-long drive, you will tour the Catherine palace that is considered to be one of the masterpieces of the world architecture. The lavish imperial palace was designed by architect Rastrelli in 1752 for Empress Elizabeth. She named it Catherine Palace in honor of her mother, Catherine I, who originally owned the estate.

You start the tour of the palace from the Great staircase by Monighetty which takes you to the state rooms on the first floor. The interior consists of a seemingly interminable succession of state-rooms, which give the impression of a golden corridor. The highlight of the visit is the splendid Great Hall. Light streams into this glittering hall illuminating the mirrors, gilded carvings and the vast ceiling painting. Of special interest is the Amber Room of the palace that was once considered to be the "Eighth Wonder of the World". You will learn the fascinating story of this room.

After the palace tour, take a brief guided stroll in the 1,400-acre (566-hectare) park. Following your visit to Catherine's Palace, re-board your coach and proceed to a Podvorie Restaurant for a traditional Russian lunch accompanied by folkloric music.

Pavlovsk Palace

Following lunch, you will visit the Palace of Pavlovsk, one of Russia's most beautifully restored palaces which belonged to Emperor Paul I and his wife Maria. The palace remained a residence of the Romanov family until 1915. Though the palace and the park were destroyed in 1941-44, they have been completely restored and present the most complete picture of a royal suburban residence. Pavlovsk is a place that has retained an atmosphere of warm intimacy and sumptuous coziness, which still enchants visitors.

Following your palace tour, take a guided walk in the romantic, 1,800-acre (728-hectare) Pavlovsk Park, one of the finest landscaped parks in Europe. Leaving Pavlovsk Park, re-board your coach for the approximate 1.25-hour return drive to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking, at times over flat and gravel surfaces, with many steps to negotiate inside the palaces. This tour is not recommended for infants and toddlers, guests with limited mobility or guests who utilise a wheelchair. There are no elevators inside the palaces. Guests are encouraged to wear layered clothing and flat, comfortable shoes. Guests are provided with special slipcovers to wear over their shoes inside the palaces. Expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays at the palaces. The tour sequence may vary.

This tour will introduce you to the treasures of Russian jewelry art exhibited in the private Faberge Museum, and allow you to enjoy the great city views from water in a leisurely manner.

Faberge Museum

The private Faberge Museum opened its doors at the renovated Shuvalov Palace in St. Petersburg on November 19, 2013. Here billionaire Viktor Vekselberg has placed his priceless collection of Faberge Eggs on display for the general public.

The collection includes over 4,000 works of art from the late 19th and early 20th century, including fifteen Faberge eggs, nine of which are the famous Imperial Faberge eggs previously owned by the Romanov family.

It took 10 years to create the current collection, and it is still growing. You will see many unique exhibits, among which are other works of the famous jeweler, royal silverware, precious icons and other religious ornaments, collection of paintings on enamel, other objects of decorative and applied art, paintings by famous Russian and foreign artists.

Viktor Vekselberg purchased the famous Malcolm Forbes Faberge Collection from the Forbes family in 2004 for about $100 million. Most notable amongst this collection are the Rosebud Egg, Lilies-of-the-Valley Egg, Coronation Egg and, particularly the Hen Egg and the Order of St. George Egg that represent the first and last eggs received by Empress Maria, wife of Alexander III.

The first Faberge egg was crafted for Emperor Alexander III who had decided to give his wife Maria an Easter Egg in 1885 to celebrate the 20^th anniversary of their betrothal. Known as the Hen Egg, this first Faberge egg was crafted from gold. Its opaque white enameled "shell" opens to reveal its first surprise - a matte yellow gold yolk. This in turn opens to reveal a multicolored gold hen that also opens.

Empress Maria was so delighted by the gift that Alexander appointed Faberge a "goldsmith by special appointment to the Imperial Crown" and commissioned another egg the next year. After that Peter Carl Faberge was apparently given complete freedom for future Imperial Easter Eggs, and their designs become more elaborate. It is believed that even the Tsar didn't know what form they would take: the only requirement was that each contain a surprise.

Canals of St. Petersburg

After visiting the museum, board a canal boat for an hour long ride along the rivers and canals of St. Petersburg to view more of the city's sites from the water. St. Petersburg was built around a network of canals and rivers, which contribute a lot to the great atmosphere of this "Venice of the North".

The canal boat ride ends at a pier where you will re-board the coach for the transfer back to the ship.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, with a few steps to negotiate. This tour is suitable for guests who utilise a wheelchair who can get on and off the coach and boat with little assistance. Canal boat and canal boat pier are not wheelchair accessible. Guests are encouraged to wear layered clothing and flat, comfortable shoes. Photo and video are not allowed in the Faberge Museum. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. The order of sites visited may vary. The route of the boat ride may vary due to high water level and bridge repair works. In case of stormy weather, the boat ride may be cancelled

During the 300 years of its existence St. Petersburg has acquired so much historical importance and witnessed so many turning events that there inevitably appeared a countless number of legends and mysterious stories. During this unique tour ou will learn many interesting facts, rumors, legends and tales about tsars and nobles, writers and musicians, squares and streets, palaces and mansions.

Yusupov Palace

Depart the pier for a 30-minute transfer via coach to the Yusupov Palace associated with one of the most controversial personalities in the Russian history - Grigory Rasputin, and his dramatic assassination.

The Yusupov Palace on the Moika Embankment is an outstanding historic and architectural monument of the late 18th - early 20th centuries. It presents a fine example of the Russian classicism, full of quiet dignity and laconic chic, and preserves the memory of its noble owners, the Yusupov Princes whose wealth could be compared only to that of the Romanovs.

The Yusupovs were great collectors of art, and their collection was known well beyond Russia. After the revolution most of the collection was moved to the Hermitage, though traces of the incredible wealth that once kept this palace pulsating with life still remain: sitting rooms sumptuously decorated in various architectural styles, intricate chandeliers and candelabras, sculptures and paintings. Wandering around the halls of the Yusupov Palace that preserve a sense of the past, you will learn about the refined luxury, exquisite taste, and splendor of the high life, family happiness and human tragedies of the past.

You will be amazed by the sumptuously decorated Yusupov's private theater that looks like a cozy version of the Mariinsky. Composers Franz Liszt and Alexander Dargomyzhsky, opera singer Feodor Chaliapin and ballerina Anna Pavlova performed at concerts in this home theatre, a genuine gem of the Palace.

Not only is the Palace a remarkable architectural monument, but it is also one of the most mysterious places in the city, full of occult memories, a historical site, tied to the fall of Imperial Russia. It was here that Grigory Rasputin, a peasant who had gained control over the tsar's family through his alleged supernatural powers, was murdered by the young prince Felix Yusupov and his associates on the night of December 16-17, 1916, and his death was as mysterious as his life. Your guide will escort you to the cellar, where 'Madame Tussauds' style wax figures reconstitute the whole event for you.

Canal Boat Ride

Following the visit to Yusupov Palace embark a boat for a short cruise along the canals of St. Petersburg that is often called "Venice of the North". Enjoy the beautiful palaces, mansions and churches from a totally different perspective.

Spilled Blood Cathedral

Your next stop is the stunning Spilled Blood Cathedral - certainly one of the symbols of St. Petersburg. This marvelous Russian-style multicolored, onion-domed church was built on the spot where Emperor Alexander II was assassinated on March 1, 1881. Emperor Alexander III decided to build a church at the spot where his father was mortally wounded. Constructed in 1883-1907, the church is designed in the spirit of sixteenth- and seventeenth century Russian architecture, inspired particularly by St. Basil Cathedral on the Red Square in Moscow.

The church stands out for its complicated and picturesque outline, as well as rich and multicolored decoration. Both the interior and exterior of the church is decorated with incredibly detailed 7000 square meters of mosaics, designed and created in Frolovs' workshop to the originals by the most prominent Russian artists of the day: Vasnetsov, Nesterov, Riabushkin and Vrubel. These mosaics are far from being ordinary; their surface was left unpolished, so that they reflect sunlight, which impresses visitors to present day. Inside the cathedral the very spot of the assassination is marked with a marble Shatrovy Cen, a monument to Alexander.

The facades are faced with glazed shaped brick and ceramic tiles as well as decorated with mosaic panels. In the decor of interiors Italian marbles and Russian semiprecious stones are used. Five cupolas of the church, some 1000 square meters in area are covered with jewelry enamel. The belfry is decorated with mosaic coats-of-arms of cities and regions of the Russian empire. The church is interesting as a kind of an architectural accent in classical surroundings.

Please note: Tour involves moderate walking with stairs to negotiate and is not suitable for guests who use a wheelchair. We suggest guests dress in seasonal attire and wear flat, walking shoes. In the event of inclement weather, the boat ride may be substituted with a coach transfer. Order of sites visited may vary.

Find your own treasures and memories to take back home during this half-day shopping and browsing opportunity. This program will allow you some free time in the city at your leisure.

Your tour will begin with a short drive to the Square of Arts dominated by the famous monument to Alexander Pushkin. Every single building facing the square is either a theater or a museum. Here you will find the world-known Russian Museum, the Museum of Ethnography, Mikhailovsky Theater of Opera and Ballet and the State Philharmonic Society. Here the coach will be waiting for you while you enjoy time at leisure walking and shopping along the city's main street - Nevsky Prospect.

Nevsky Prospect, certainly one of the best-known streets in Russia. Cutting right through the St. Petersburg historical center, it runs from the Admiralty to the Moscow Railway Station and then, making a slight curve, to the Alexander Nevsky Monastery. Since the 18^th century it has been the very center of the bustling, rapidly growing city. The street is lined with some of St. Petersburg's most impressive buildings, including beautiful palaces, theaters and churches. You will be passing the beautiful Cathedral of Our Lady of Kazan, the Catholic Church of St. Catherine, and view the fairytale Spilled Blood Cathedral. Nevsky is also the main shopping area for the citizens and guests of St. Petersburg. Here you will find such large shopping centers as Gostiny Dvor, Passage and Grand Palace Boutique Gallery.

The guide will assist and direct you to the type of treasure you are seeking.

After approximately 2,5 hours of free time in the city center with your guide close at hand, re-join the coach for the 20-minute drive back to the pier.

Please note: This is not a guided tour, but a programme that will allow you to have some free time in the city-centre under the supervision of a licensed guide. An individual visa is not required for this programme. This programme involves minimal to moderate walking and is suitable for guests with limited mobility and for those who use a wheelchair. Guests must be able to embark and disembark the coach with minimal assistance. We recommend guests dress in seasonal attire and wear flat walking shoes. Major credit cards and Rubles are accepted in the main stores.

Take a tour to Peterhof - the town of palaces, fountains and gardens, the most brilliant of all the former summer residences of the Russian tsars conceived by Peter the Great to rival Versailles.

The grounds of Peterhof include the Upper and Lower Park and a number of delightful little palaces and pavilions. Crowning the hill is Peter's Grand Palace. It has a commanding view over the Lower Park and the Gulf beyond.

Peterhof Grand Palace

Upon arrival to Peterhof you will proceed to the Upper Park designed as a French formal garden and enter the Grand Palace for an hour-long tour. The original palace was built for Peter the Great in 1714-25 and in 1745-55 it was remodeled to its present baroque glory by Bartolomeo Rastrelli, the favorite architect of Empress Elizabeth. Despite all the damage done to the Grand Palace during WWII, it has been carefully restored and is truly breathtaking.

Enjoy the palace's startling interiors: the Gala Staircase, the Dancing Hall, the Audience Hall and a suite of drawing rooms to Rastrelli's design. You will certainly be impressed by the classical decoration of architect Felton such as the Chesma Hall, the opulent Throne room, the White Dining Room with its unique Wedgwood dinner service. Peter's Oak Study is one of the few rooms to have survived unaltered from the days of Peter the Great. Some of the oak panels are originals by Nicolas Pineau.

Lower Gardens Tour

Descend into the Lower Gardens, a 300-acre fountain park with a number of pavilions and palaces overlooking the Gulf of Finland. The park comprises about 150 fountains including four cascades decorated with gilded statues of mythological characters. Enjoy a stop at the Grand Cascade, the largest fountain ensemble in the world that is justly considered the chief delight of the grounds. A great variety of fountains concentrated in the Lower Park includes the Checker Board Hill Cascade, Golden Hill Cascade, Lion's Cascade, Adam and Eva fountains, the Sun fountain, the Pyramid and lots of others.

Following an hour-long tour of the grounds, board a comfortable hydrofoil and commence on a 30-minute return ride to St. Petersburg.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking over flat and gravel surfaces, with numerous stairs to negotiate and no elevators. This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility and guests who use a wheelchair. Hydrofoil and hydrofoil pier are not wheelchair accessible. Guests are encouraged to wear layered clothing and flat, comfortable shoes. Guests are provided with special slipcovers to wear over their shoes inside the Grand Palace. Photo and video are not allowed in the Peterhof Grand Palace. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. The tour sequence may vary. The hydrofoil may not be exclusive to Silversea guests. A minimum number of guests is required to operate this program.

Take a tour to Peterhof - the town of palaces, fountains and gardens, the most brilliant of all the former summer residences of the Russian tsars conceived by Peter the Great to rival Versailles.

The grounds of Peterhof include the Upper and Lower Park and a number of delightful little palaces and pavilions. Crowning the hill is Peter's Grand Palace. It has a commanding view over the Lower Park and the Gulf beyond.

Peterhof Grand Palace

Upon arrival to Peterhof you will proceed to the Upper Park designed as a French formal garden and enter the Grand Palace for an hour-long tour. The original palace was built for Peter the Great in 1714-25 and in 1745-55 it was remodeled to its present baroque glory by Bartolomeo Rastrelli, the favorite architect of Empress Elizabeth. Despite all the damage done to the Grand Palace during WWII, it has been carefully restored and is truly breathtaking.

Enjoy the palace's startling interiors: the Gala Staircase, the Dancing Hall, the Audience Hall and a suite of drawing rooms to Rastrelli's design. You will certainly be impressed by the classical decoration of architect Felton such as the Chesma Hall, the opulent Throne room, the White Dining Room with its unique Wedgwood dinner service. Peter's Oak Study is one of the few rooms to have survived unaltered from the days of Peter the Great. Some of the oak panels are originals by Nicolas Pineau.

Lower Gardens Tour

Descend into the Lower Gardens, a 300-acre fountain park with a number of pavilions and palaces overlooking the Gulf of Finland. The park comprises about 150 fountains including four cascades decorated with gilded statues of mythological characters. Enjoy a stop at the Grand Cascade, the largest fountain ensemble in the world that is justly considered the chief delight of the grounds. A great variety of fountains concentrated in the Lower Park includes the Checker Board Hill Cascade, Golden Hill Cascade, Lion's Cascade, Adam and Eva fountains, the Sun fountain, the Pyramid and lots of others.

Following an hour-long tour of the grounds, board a comfortable hydrofoil and commence on a 30-minute return ride to St. Petersburg.

Please note: Tour is Guided in German, minimum amount of guests required to operate. It involves an extensive amount of walking over flat and gravel surfaces, with numerous stairs to negotiate and no elevators. This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility and guests who use a wheelchair. Hydrofoil and hydrofoil pier are not wheelchair accessible. Guests are encouraged to wear layered clothing and flat, comfortable shoes. Guests are provided with special slipcovers to wear over their shoes inside the Grand Palace. Photo and video are not allowed in the Peterhof Grand Palace. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. The tour sequence may vary. The hydrofoil may not be exclusive to Silversea guests.

Take a tour to Peterhof - the town of palaces, fountains and gardens, the most brilliant of all the former summer residences of the Russian tsars conceived by Peter the Great to rival Versailles.

The grounds of Peterhof include the Upper and Lower Park and a number of delightful little palaces and pavilions. Crowning the hill is Peter's Grand Palace. It has a commanding view over the Lower Park and the Gulf beyond.

Peterhof Grand Palace

Upon arrival to Peterhof you will proceed to the Upper Park designed as a French formal garden and enter the Grand Palace for an hour-long tour. The original palace was built for Peter the Great in 1714-25 and in 1745-55 it was remodeled to its present baroque glory by Bartolomeo Rastrelli, the favorite architect of Empress Elizabeth. Despite all the damage done to the Grand Palace during WWII, it has been carefully restored and is truly breathtaking.

Enjoy the palace's startling interiors: the Gala Staircase, the Dancing Hall, the Audience Hall and a suite of drawing rooms to Rastrelli's design. You will certainly be impressed by the classical decoration of architect Felton such as the Chesma Hall, the opulent Throne room, the White Dining Room with its unique Wedgwood dinner service. Peter's Oak Study is one of the few rooms to have survived unaltered from the days of Peter the Great. Some of the oak panels are originals by Nicolas Pineau.

Lower Gardens Tour

Descend into the Lower Gardens, a 300-acre fountain park with a number of pavilions and palaces overlooking the Gulf of Finland. The park comprises about 150 fountains including four cascades decorated with gilded statues of mythological characters. Enjoy a stop at the Grand Cascade, the largest fountain ensemble in the world that is justly considered the chief delight of the grounds. A great variety of fountains concentrated in the Lower Park includes the Checker Board Hill Cascade, Golden Hill Cascade, Lion's Cascade, Adam and Eva fountains, the Sun fountain, the Pyramid and lots of others.

Following an hour-long tour of the grounds, board a comfortable hydrofoil and commence on a 30-minute return ride to St. Petersburg.

Please note: Tour is Guided in Spanish, minimum amount of guests required to operate.This tour involves an extensive amount of walking over flat and gravel surfaces, with numerous stairs to negotiate and no elevators. This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility and guests who use a wheelchair. Hydrofoil and hydrofoil pier are not wheelchair accessible. Guests are encouraged to wear layered clothing and flat, comfortable shoes. Guests are provided with special slipcovers to wear over their shoes inside the Grand Palace. Photo and video are not allowed in the Peterhof Grand Palace. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. The tour sequence may vary. The hydrofoil may not be exclusive to Silversea guests.

Explore St. Petersburg at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customize your own itinerary once onboard or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Information to help you plan your itinerary:

· Silver Shore Privato is considered a ship-sponsored tour and no individual Russian visa is required.

· The drive between the pier and the center of the city is approximately 20 minutes in each direction. However, as with most large cities, traffic congestion can be an issue and should be anticipated. Please allow adequate travel time in your planning.

· Venues have different days of opening and hours of operation. The chart below is a general guideline.

· Most venues have entrance fees; in addition some venues require extra fees which are not included, and additional charges to bring a camera or video recorder.

· To avoid waiting in line, the local tour operator will secure entrance tickets for your desired program, and your onboard account will be charged per ticket at the end of your touring day.

· Tour duration may be increased beyond the time specified. This must be requested onboard and will result in additional hourly fees.

· Foreign language guides may be requested onboard and are at an additional cost to be advised once availability is confirmed.

· Our onboard Shore Concierge will be pleased to assist you with any further questions and to assist in itinerary planning. Please confirm your venue choices with the team onboard.

· Once onboard the ship you will receive a form for you to confirm your itinerary and to identify the names of the guests in your party, required for disembarkation.

· As St. Petersburg is a most popular destination, please anticipate crowds at most venues, few of which offer any air-conditioning. Dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Catherine Palace: Closed Tuesdays & last Monday of each month

Available during early opening on regular days and special opening on Tuesday 8:30-10:30. Not available in the afternoon.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Not recommended for guests with walking difficulties, about 46 steps. Elevator available ONLY for guests in wheelchairs.

Non-refundable once booked

Allow a Half Day

Central Naval Museum /Artillery Museum: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 11:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

Wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood: Closed Wednesdays

Open: Thu-Tue: 10:30-18:00, evening opening 18:00-22:30 at special price.

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

4 steps to enter the Church; entrance is equipped with a ramp for wheelchairs.

Allow a Half Day

Cruiser Aurora: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 11:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

Steps, not wheelchair accessible

Grand Palace at Peterhof: Closed Mondays & last Tuesday of each month

Available during early opening on regular days 9:00-11:00; 14:30-16:30 and in some cases during special opening on Monday.

Lower Park is open daily 9:00-21:00, fountains operating time 11:00-18:00.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Wheelchairs permitted in park only; 37 steps to cover inside the Palace, no elevators or ramps.

Allow a Full Day

Hermitage Museum: Closed Mondays

Open: Tue-Sat: 10:30-17:00, Sun: 10:30-16:00, Wed, Fri: 10:30-21:00. For Silversea guests also available during early opening 9:00-10:30.

Travel Time (each way): 15-30 minutes

No Air Conditioning, Wheelchair accessible, Considerable walking

Allow a Half Day or Full Day

Hermitage Gold Room: Closed Mondays

Available at advance booking only.

Travel Time (each way): 15-30 minutes

Additional Fee - Must be reserved and prepaid at shoreconcierge@silversea.com

Non- refundable once booked

Allow a Half Day

Menshikov Palace: Closed Mondays

Open: Tue-Sun: 10:30-16:30

Travel Time (each way): 20-30 minutes

Not wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Pavlovsk Palace: Closed last Monday of the month

Open: Sat-Thu: 10:00-18:00

Pavlovsk Park is open daily 6:00-21:00.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Wheelchairs permitted in park only

Allow a Half Day

Open: Tues-Sun: 10:30-16:30

Peter & Paul Fortress: Open Daily

Open: Wed-Mon: 10:00-18:00, Tues: 10:00-16:00

Travel Time (each way): 30 minutes

Two Steps, venue wheelchair accessible otherwise

Allow a Half Day

Peter's Log Cabin: Closed Tuesday & last Monday of the month

Open: Wed-Mon: 10:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

2 steps to enter the museum

Allow a Half Day

Russian Museum: Closed Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 10:00-18:00, Mon: 10:00-20:00, Thursday: 13:00-21:00

Travel Time (each way): 30 minutes

50 steps to cover inside the museum, but the Museum is wheelchair accessible.

Allow a Half Day

St. Isaac's Cathedral: Closed Wednesdays

Open: Thu-Tue: 10:30-18:00, evening opening 18:00-22:30 at special price.

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

8 high steps to enter the Cathedral; entrance is equipped with a ramp for wheelchairs.

St. Isaac's Colonnade is not wheelchair accessible; there are 265 steps to the observation point.

Allow a Half Day

Synagogue: On Saturdays it's only possible to attend a service, not tours allowed

Open: Sun-Fri: 09:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

21 steps to enter, not wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Yusupov Palace: Open Daily

Open: Mon-Sun: 10:45-17:00

Travel Time (each way): 20-30 minutes

45 steps up to the first floor, 16 narrow steps down to the basement and 12 steps down to the theatre on the first floor

Advance booking is required. Non-refundable once booked.

Allow a Half Day

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car.The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle; therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program and the cost of the tour may be split between suites. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to confirm your individual itinerary and departure time. Deviations to duration, venue admissions and additional camera or video fees will be charged to your onboard account. Silversea Cruises does not match groups of guests to form a private group for the vehicle.

Explore St. Petersburg at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customize your own itinerary once onboard or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Information to help you plan your itinerary:

· Silver Shore Privato is considered a ship-sponsored tour and no individual Russian visa is required.

· The drive between the pier and the center of the city is approximately 20 minutes in each direction. However, as with most large cities, traffic congestion can be an issue and should be anticipated. Please allow adequate travel time in your planning.

· Venues have different days of opening and hours of operation. The chart below is a general guideline.

· Most venues have entrance fees; in addition some venues require extra fees which are not included, and additional charges to bring a camera or video recorder.

· To avoid waiting in line, the local tour operator will secure entrance tickets for your desired program, and your onboard account will be charged per ticket at the end of your touring day.

· Tour duration may be increased beyond the time specified. This must be requested onboard and will result in additional hourly fees.

· Foreign language guides may be requested onboard and are at an additional cost to be advised once availability is confirmed.

· Our onboard Shore Concierge will be pleased to assist you with any further questions and to assist in itinerary planning. Please confirm your venue choices with the team onboard.

· Once onboard the ship you will receive a form for you to confirm your itinerary and to identify the names of the guests in your party, required for disembarkation.

· As St. Petersburg is a most popular destination, please anticipate crowds at most venues, few of which offer any air-conditioning. Dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Catherine Palace: Closed Tuesdays & last Monday of each month

Available during early opening on regular days and special opening on Tuesday 8:30-10:30. Not available in the afternoon.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Not recommended for guests with walking difficulties, about 46 steps. Elevator available ONLY for guests in wheelchairs.

Non-refundable once booked

Allow a Half Day

Central Naval Museum /Artillery Museum: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 11:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

Wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood: Closed Wednesdays

Open: Thu-Tue: 10:30-18:00, evening opening 18:00-22:30 at special price.

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

4 steps to enter the Church; entrance is equipped with a ramp for wheelchairs.

Allow a Half Day

Cruiser Aurora: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 11:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

Steps, not wheelchair accessible

Grand Palace at Peterhof: Closed Mondays & last Tuesday of each month

Available during early opening on regular days 9:00-11:00; 14:30-16:30 and in some cases during special opening on Monday.

Lower Park is open daily 9:00-21:00, fountains operating time 11:00-18:00.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Wheelchairs permitted in park only; 37 steps to cover inside the Palace, no elevators or ramps.

Allow a Full Day

Hermitage Museum: Closed Mondays

Open: Tue-Sat: 10:30-17:00, Sun: 10:30-16:00, Wed, Fri: 10:30-21:00. For Silversea guests also available during early opening 9:00-10:30.

Travel Time (each way): 15-30 minutes

No Air Conditioning, Wheelchair accessible, Considerable walking

Allow a Half Day or Full Day

Hermitage Gold Room: Closed Mondays

Available at advance booking only.

Travel Time (each way): 15-30 minutes

Additional Fee - Must be reserved and prepaid at shoreconcierge@silversea.com

Non- refundable once booked

Allow a Half Day

Menshikov Palace: Closed Mondays

Open: Tue-Sun: 10:30-16:30

Travel Time (each way): 20-30 minutes

Not wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Pavlovsk Palace: Closed last Monday of the month

Open: Sat-Thu: 10:00-18:00

Pavlovsk Park is open daily 6:00-21:00.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Wheelchairs permitted in park only

Allow a Half Day

Peter & Paul Fortress: Open Daily

Open: Wed-Mon: 10:00-18:00, Tues: 10:00-16:00

Travel Time (each way): 30 minutes

Two Steps, venue wheelchair accessible otherwise

Allow a Half Day

Peter's Log Cabin: Closed Tuesday & last Monday of the month

Open: Wed-Mon: 10:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

2 steps to enter the museum

Allow a Half Day

Russian Museum: Closed Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 10:00-18:00, Mon: 10:00-20:00, Thursday: 13:00-21:00

Travel Time (each way): 30 minutes

50 steps to cover inside the museum, but the Museum is wheelchair accessible.

Allow a Half Day

St. Isaac's Cathedral: Closed Wednesdays

Open: Thu-Tue: 10:30-18:00, evening opening 18:00-22:30 at special price.

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

8 high steps to enter the Cathedral; entrance is equipped with a ramp for wheelchairs.

St. Isaac's Colonnade is not wheelchair accessible; there are 265 steps to the observation point.

Allow a Half Day

Synagogue: On Saturdays it's only possible to attend a service, not tours allowed

Open: Sun-Fri: 09:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

21 steps to enter, not wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Yusupov Palace: Open Daily

Open: Mon-Sun: 10:45-17:00

Travel Time (each way): 20-30 minutes

45 steps up to the first floor, 16 narrow steps down to the basement and 12 steps down to the theatre on the first floor

Advance booking is required. Non-refundable once booked.

Allow a Half Day

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities,is per vehicle; therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program and the cost of the tour may be split between suites. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to confirm your individual itinerary and departure time. Deviations to duration, venue admissions and additional camera or video fees will be charged to your onboard account. Silversea Cruises does not match groups of guests to form a private group for the vehicle.

Discover this great historical city from several perspectives, including a boat cruise through its waterways.

Peter the Great ordered that palaces should have a landing on the river, and many of these elaborate structures are best seen from the water. Venture first to St. Isaac's Square where the cathedral's high, gilded cupola can be seen for miles. On the Moika River, embark on a boat ride that passes by the Yusupov Palace, Stroganov Palace, and Michael's Castle. View the multi-colored Church of Our Saviour on the Spilled Blood, the famous Summer Gardens, and the Summer Palace of Peter the Great.

After an hour cruising, board your coach for a short drive to Spilled Blood Cathedral where you will stop for a short photo opportunity. Continue to the Spit of Vasilievsky Island, its historic Rostral Columns and the imposing Peter and Paul Fortress and Cathedral. Drive past the Aurora, the battleship that signalled the start of the Revolution in 1917.

On the way back to the ship pass by the impressive Bronze Horseman statue, a monument to Peter the Great, who built this magnificent city from a marshy swamp.

Please note: This tour requires a minimal amount of walking. The majority of walking occurs at the photo stops and this tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility; however, the boat is not wheelchair-accessible. Guests must also be able to negotiate a few steps to get on/off the motor coaches and 10 to 12 steps to embark/disembark the boat with little-to-no assistance. Guests are encouraged to wear layered clothing with flat, comfortable shoes. The tour sequence may vary, and the tour content is subject to change without prior notice.

Discover this great historical city from several perspectives, including a boat cruise through its waterways.

Peter the Great ordered that palaces should have a landing on the river, and many of these elaborate structures are best seen from the water. Venture first to St. Isaac's Square where the cathedral's high, gilded cupola can be seen for miles. On the Moika River, embark on a boat ride that passes by the Yusupov Palace, Stroganov Palace, and Michael's Castle. View the multi-colored Church of Our Saviour on the Spilled Blood, the famous Summer Gardens, and the Summer Palace of Peter the Great.

After an hour cruising, board your coach for a short drive to Spilled Blood Cathedral where you will stop for a short photo opportunity. Continue to the Spit of Vasilievsky Island, its historic Rostral Columns and the imposing Peter and Paul Fortress and Cathedral. Drive past the Aurora, the battleship that signalled the start of the Revolution in 1917.

On the way back to the ship pass by the impressive Bronze Horseman statue, a monument to Peter the Great, who built this magnificent city from a marshy swamp.

Please note: Tour is Guided in German, a minimum amount of guests required to operate. This tour requires a minimal amount of walking. The majority of walking occurs at the photo stops and this tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility; however, the boat is not wheelchair-accessible. Guests must also be able to negotiate a few steps to get on/off the motor coaches and 10 to 12 steps to embark/disembark the boat with little-to-no assistance. Guests are encouraged to wear layered clothing with flat, comfortable shoes. The tour sequence may vary, and the tour content is subject to change without prior notice.

Discover this great historical city from several perspectives, including a boat cruise through its waterways.

Peter the Great ordered that palaces should have a landing on the river, and many of these elaborate structures are best seen from the water. Venture first to St. Isaac's Square where the cathedral's high, gilded cupola can be seen for miles. On the Moika River, embark on a boat ride that passes by the Yusupov Palace, Stroganov Palace, and Michael's Castle. View the multi-colored Church of Our Saviour on the Spilled Blood, the famous Summer Gardens, and the Summer Palace of Peter the Great.

After an hour cruising, board your coach for a short drive to Spilled Blood Cathedral where you will stop for a short photo opportunity. Continue to the Spit of Vasilievsky Island, its historic Rostral Columns and the imposing Peter and Paul Fortress and Cathedral. Drive past the Aurora, the battleship that signalled the start of the Revolution in 1917.

On the way back to the ship pass by the impressive Bronze Horseman statue, a monument to Peter the Great, who built this magnificent city from a marshy swamp.

Please note: Tour is Guided in German, a minimum amount of guests required to operate. This tour requires a minimal amount of walking. The majority of walking occurs at the photo stops and this tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility; however, the boat is not wheelchair-accessible. Guests must also be able to negotiate a few steps to get on/off the motor coaches and 10 to 12 steps to embark/disembark the boat with little-to-no assistance. Guests are encouraged to wear layered clothing with flat, comfortable shoes. The tour sequence may vary, and the tour content is subject to change without prior notice.

Explore the splendid art, architecture and beauty of the Russian Orthodox churches of St. Petersburg during this memorable cathedral tour.

Depart the pier for the approximate 30-minute drive to the centre of the city to the St. Isaac's Square dominated by the fascinating St. Isaac's Cathedral.

St. Isaac's Cathedral

The opulent interior of this spectacular cathedral spans 43,000 square feet (4,000 square metres), and is filled with hundreds of impressive 19th-century works of art - the iconostasis of white marble with gilding and three rows of mosaic icons surrounding the Royal Gate flanked by two lapis columns and ten columns of malachite. The central iconostasis door reveals a stain glass window. Above the doors is Klodt's gilded sculpture, Christ in Glory. The icons in the church are 19^th century design, executed in a virtuoso mosaic technique, with stones of thousand of tints laid out in such a smooth manner that only from a short distance the mosaic appears to be paintings. The interior of the dome, painted by famous Russian master Carl Brullov, depicts the "Virgin surrounded by Saints". The silver dove, hanging in the cupola, is a symbol of the Holy Spirit. Some 100 kg of pure gold went into gilding the huge dome. The décor of the church was most expensive. The architect used Russian rose marble, gray marble from Finland, green from Genoa, yellow from Sienna; the floors are finished in Russian, Italian and French marble. 14 colored marbles and 43 other types of semiprecious stones and minerals were used for the decoration of the Cathedral.

Spilled Blood Cathedral

Next, re-board your coach for a visit to the Spilled Blood Cathedral. Also known as the 'Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ', this multi-coloured, onion-domed church is one of the most ornate in Russia. Built in the early-20th century on the spot where Alexander II was assassinated in 1881 by terrorists, the church is richly-decorated with different types of marble from all over the world and its walls are covered with exquisite mosaics. Although years of neglect during the Soviet era left the building in poor condition, a painstaking, 27-year restoration led to the reopening of the cathedral in 1997.

Peter and Paul Cathedral

Your final stop is at the Peter and Paul Cathedral, which stands in the heart of the Peter and Paul Fortress, the birthplace of St. Petersburg. Constructed between 1712 and 1733 by the first architect of the city Domenico Trezini, the Cathedral is the highest building in the city - 404 feet high. The spire of the church is topped by an angel holding a cross. This weather-vane is one of the most prominent symbols of St Petersburg.

The interior of the Cathedral is light and airy, with its glittering chandeliers, pink and green Corinthian columns and an opulent gilt iconostasis. This masterpiece of gilded woodcarving was designed by Ivan Zarubny and executed by Moscow Craftsmen.

After Peter's death in 1725, the Cathedral became the burial place of the tsars. All the tombs are of uniform white marble with the exception of especially remarkable tombstones over the graves of Alexander II and his wife Maria. They are carved out of monoliths - green Altai jasper (about 5 tons) and pink Ural rhodonite (over 6.5 tons). Peter himself chose a place for his own grave to the right of the iconostasis. A bronze bust of the tsar and a Pieta group above the tombstone distinguish it. It is often adorned with fresh flowers.

In July 1998 the remains of the last Russian tsar - Nicholas II, his wife and children and the servants who died together with them were buried in St. Catherine's chapel of the Cathedral.

Following your visit, re-board your coach for the approximately 30-minute return drive to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking over flat, gravel and cobbled surfaces, with some steps to negotiate. All venues are equipped with ramps to allow access for guests in wheelchairs. Guests are encouraged to wear layered clothing and flat, comfortable shoes. The tour sequence may vary. A minimum number of guests per guide is required to operate this program.

Explore the splendid art, architecture and beauty of the Russian Orthodox churches of St. Petersburg during this memorable cathedral tour.

Depart the pier for the approximate 30-minute drive to the centre of the city to the St. Isaac's Square dominated by the fascinating St. Isaac's Cathedral.

St. Isaac's Cathedral

The opulent interior of this spectacular cathedral spans 43,000 square feet (4,000 square metres), and is filled with hundreds of impressive 19th-century works of art - the iconostasis of white marble with gilding and three rows of mosaic icons surrounding the Royal Gate flanked by two lapis columns and ten columns of malachite. The central iconostasis door reveals a stain glass window. Above the doors is Klodt's gilded sculpture, Christ in Glory. The icons in the church are 19^th century design, executed in a virtuoso mosaic technique, with stones of thousand of tints laid out in such a smooth manner that only from a short distance the mosaic appears to be paintings. The interior of the dome, painted by famous Russian master Carl Brullov, depicts the "Virgin surrounded by Saints". The silver dove, hanging in the cupola, is a symbol of the Holy Spirit. Some 100 kg of pure gold went into gilding the huge dome. The décor of the church was most expensive. The architect used Russian rose marble, gray marble from Finland, green from Genoa, yellow from Sienna; the floors are finished in Russian, Italian and French marble. 14 colored marbles and 43 other types of semiprecious stones and minerals were used for the decoration of the Cathedral.

Spilled Blood Cathedral

Next, re-board your coach for a visit to the Spilled Blood Cathedral. Also known as the 'Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ', this multi-coloured, onion-domed church is one of the most ornate in Russia. Built in the early-20th century on the spot where Alexander II was assassinated in 1881 by terrorists, the church is richly-decorated with different types of marble from all over the world and its walls are covered with exquisite mosaics. Although years of neglect during the Soviet era left the building in poor condition, a painstaking, 27-year restoration led to the reopening of the cathedral in 1997.

Peter and Paul Cathedral

Your final stop is at the Peter and Paul Cathedral, which stands in the heart of the Peter and Paul Fortress, the birthplace of St. Petersburg. Constructed between 1712 and 1733 by the first architect of the city Domenico Trezini, the Cathedral is the highest building in the city - 404 feet high. The spire of the church is topped by an angel holding a cross. This weather-vane is one of the most prominent symbols of St Petersburg.

The interior of the Cathedral is light and airy, with its glittering chandeliers, pink and green Corinthian columns and an opulent gilt iconostasis. This masterpiece of gilded woodcarving was designed by Ivan Zarubny and executed by Moscow Craftsmen.

After Peter's death in 1725, the Cathedral became the burial place of the tsars. All the tombs are of uniform white marble with the exception of especially remarkable tombstones over the graves of Alexander II and his wife Maria. They are carved out of monoliths - green Altai jasper (about 5 tons) and pink Ural rhodonite (over 6.5 tons). Peter himself chose a place for his own grave to the right of the iconostasis. A bronze bust of the tsar and a Pieta group above the tombstone distinguish it. It is often adorned with fresh flowers.

In July 1998 the remains of the last Russian tsar - Nicholas II, his wife and children and the servants who died together with them were buried in St. Catherine's chapel of the Cathedral.

Following your visit, re-board your coach for the approximately 30-minute return drive to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking over flat, gravel and cobbled surfaces, with some steps to negotiate. All venues are equipped with ramps to allow access for guests in wheelchairs. Guests are encouraged to wear layered clothing and flat, comfortable shoes. The tour sequence may vary. A minimum number of guests per guide is required to operate this program.

Explore the splendid art, architecture and beauty of the Russian Orthodox churches of St. Petersburg during this memorable cathedral tour.

Depart the pier for the approximate 30-minute drive to the centre of the city to the St. Isaac's Square dominated by the fascinating St. Isaac's Cathedral.

St. Isaac's Cathedral

The opulent interior of this spectacular cathedral spans 43,000 square feet (4,000 square metres), and is filled with hundreds of impressive 19th-century works of art - the iconostasis of white marble with gilding and three rows of mosaic icons surrounding the Royal Gate flanked by two lapis columns and ten columns of malachite. The central iconostasis door reveals a stain glass window. Above the doors is Klodt's gilded sculpture, Christ in Glory. The icons in the church are 19^th century design, executed in a virtuoso mosaic technique, with stones of thousand of tints laid out in such a smooth manner that only from a short distance the mosaic appears to be paintings. The interior of the dome, painted by famous Russian master Carl Brullov, depicts the "Virgin surrounded by Saints". The silver dove, hanging in the cupola, is a symbol of the Holy Spirit. Some 100 kg of pure gold went into gilding the huge dome. The décor of the church was most expensive. The architect used Russian rose marble, gray marble from Finland, green from Genoa, yellow from Sienna; the floors are finished in Russian, Italian and French marble. 14 colored marbles and 43 other types of semiprecious stones and minerals were used for the decoration of the Cathedral.

Spilled Blood Cathedral

Next, re-board your coach for a visit to the Spilled Blood Cathedral. Also known as the 'Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ', this multi-coloured, onion-domed church is one of the most ornate in Russia. Built in the early-20th century on the spot where Alexander II was assassinated in 1881 by terrorists, the church is richly-decorated with different types of marble from all over the world and its walls are covered with exquisite mosaics. Although years of neglect during the Soviet era left the building in poor condition, a painstaking, 27-year restoration led to the reopening of the cathedral in 1997.

Peter and Paul Cathedral

Your final stop is at the Peter and Paul Cathedral, which stands in the heart of the Peter and Paul Fortress, the birthplace of St. Petersburg. Constructed between 1712 and 1733 by the first architect of the city Domenico Trezini, the Cathedral is the highest building in the city - 404 feet high. The spire of the church is topped by an angel holding a cross. This weather-vane is one of the most prominent symbols of St Petersburg.

The interior of the Cathedral is light and airy, with its glittering chandeliers, pink and green Corinthian columns and an opulent gilt iconostasis. This masterpiece of gilded woodcarving was designed by Ivan Zarubny and executed by Moscow Craftsmen.

After Peter's death in 1725, the Cathedral became the burial place of the tsars. All the tombs are of uniform white marble with the exception of especially remarkable tombstones over the graves of Alexander II and his wife Maria. They are carved out of monoliths - green Altai jasper (about 5 tons) and pink Ural rhodonite (over 6.5 tons). Peter himself chose a place for his own grave to the right of the iconostasis. A bronze bust of the tsar and a Pieta group above the tombstone distinguish it. It is often adorned with fresh flowers.

In July 1998 the remains of the last Russian tsar - Nicholas II, his wife and children and the servants who died together with them were buried in St. Catherine's chapel of the Cathedral.

Following your visit, re-board your coach for the approximately 30-minute return drive to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking over flat, gravel and cobbled surfaces, with some steps to negotiate. All venues are equipped with ramps to allow access for guests in wheelchairs. Guests are encouraged to wear layered clothing and flat, comfortable shoes. The tour sequence may vary. A minimum number of guests per guide is required to operate this program.

Enjoy the splendor of St. Petersburg during this memorable full-day experience visiting the magnificent Peterhof followed by lunch and inside visits to the remarkable landmarks of the city such as St. Isaac`s Cathedra and Peter & Paul Fortress.

Depart the pier for a one-hour drive to Peterhof - the town of palaces, fountains and gardens, the most brilliant of all the former summer residences of the Russian tsars conceived by Peter the Great to rival Versailles. The grounds of Peterhof include the Upper and Lower Park and a number of delightful little palaces and pavilions. Crowning the hill is Peter's Grand Palace. It has a commanding view over the Lower Park and the Gulf beyond.

Peterhof Palace

Upon arrival to Peterhof you will proceed to the Upper Park designed as a French formal garden and enter the Grand Palace for an hour-long tour. The original palace was built for Peter the Great in 1714-25 and in 1745-55 it was remodeled to its present baroque glory by Bartolomeo Rastrelli, the favorite architect of Empress Elizabeth. Despite all the damage done to the Grand Palace during WWII, it has been carefully restored and is truly breathtaking.

Enjoy the palace's startling interiors: the Gala Staircase, the Dancing Hall, the Audience Hall and a suite of drawing rooms to Rastrelli's design. You will certainly be impressed by the classical decoration of architect Felton such as the Chesma Hall, the opulent Throne room, the White Dining Room with its unique Wedgwood dinner service. Peter's Oak Study is one of the few rooms to have survived unaltered from the days of Peter the Great. Some of the oak panels are originals by Nicolas Pineau.

Lower Gardens Tour

Descend into the Lower Gardens, a 300-acre fountain park with a number of pavilions and palaces overlooking the Gulf of Finland. The park comprises about 150 fountains including four cascades decorated with gilded statues of mythological characters. Enjoy a stop at the Grand Cascade, the largest fountain ensemble in the world that is justly considered the chief delight of the grounds. A great variety of fountains concentrated in the Lower Park includes the Checker Board Hill Cascade, Golden Hill Cascade, Lion's Cascade, Adam and Eva fountains, the Sun fountain, the Pyramid and lots of others.

After lunch, continue exploring the splendid art, architecture and beauty of the Russian Orthodox churches of St. Petersburg.

Your first stop in the city will be a visit to St. Isaac's Square, which is dominated by the magnificent St. Isaac's Cathedral.

St. Isaac's Cathedral

The opulent interior of this spectacular cathedral spans 43,000 square feet (4,000 square metres), and is filled with hundreds of impressive 19th-century works of art - the iconostasis of white marble with gilding and three rows of mosaic icons surrounding the Royal Gate flanked by two lapis columns and ten columns of malachite. The central iconostasis door reveals a stain glass window. Above the doors is Klodt's gilded sculpture, Christ in Glory. The icons in the church are 19^th century design, executed in a virtuoso mosaic technique, with stones of thousand of tints laid out in such a smooth manner that only from a short distance the mosaic appears to be paintings. The interior of the dome, painted by famous Russian master Carl Brullov, depicts the "Virgin surrounded by Saints". The silver dove, hanging in the cupola, is a symbol of the Holy Spirit. Some 100 kg of pure gold went into gilding the huge dome. The décor of the church was most expensive. The architect used Russian rose marble, gray marble from Finland, green from Genoa, yellow from Sienna; the floors are finished in Russian, Italian and French marble. 14 colored marbles and 43 other types of semiprecious stones and minerals were used for the decoration of the Cathedral.

A 15-minute photo stop will be made at the Spilled Blood Cathedral - one of the landmarks of the city. Next re-board your coach for the visit to Peter & Paul Fortress.

Peter and Paul Cathedral

Your final stop is at the Peter and Paul Cathedral, which stands in the heart of the Peter and Paul Fortress. Constructed between 1712 and 1733 by the first architect of the city Domenico Trezini, the Cathedral is the highest building in the city - 404 feet high. The spire of the church is topped by an angel holding a cross. This weather-vane is one of the most prominent symbols of St Petersburg.

The interior of the Cathedral is light and airy, with its glittering chandeliers, pink and green Corinthian columns and an opulent gilt iconostasis. This masterpiece of gilded woodcarving was designed by Ivan Zarubny and executed by Moscow Craftsmen.

After Peter's death in 1725, the Cathedral became the burial place of the tsars. All the tombs are of uniform white marble with the exception of especially remarkable tombstones over the graves of Alexander II and his wife Maria. They are carved out of monoliths - green Altai jasper (about 5 tons) and pink Ural rhodonite (over 6.5 tons). Peter himself chose a place for his own grave to the right of the iconostasis. A bronze bust of the tsar and a Pieta group above the tombstone distinguish it. It is often adorned with fresh flowers.

In July 1998 the remains of the last Russian tsar - Nicholas II, his wife and children and the servants who died together with them were buried in St. Catherine's chapel of the Cathedral.

Following your visit, re-board your coach for the approximately 30-minute return drive to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking over flat, cobbled and gravel surfaces, with numerous stairs to negotiate and no elevators. This tour is not recommended for children or toddlers, guests with limited mobility or guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are encouraged to wear seasonal clothing and flat, comfortable shoes. Guests are provided with special overshoes to wear over their shoes inside the Grand Palace. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. The tour sequence may vary.

Tour the world-famous Hermitage Museum and explore its priceless collection of art.

Hermitage Museum

No visit to St. Petersburg would be complete without a tour of the world-famous Hermitage Museum - the "Crown Jewel" on the museum list in St. Petersburg. Founded in 1764 as a private museum of Catherine the Great to which only she and her closest courtiers had access, today it is Russia's largest art museum that owns an astounding collection of about 3 mln pieces of art.

Start from the Jordan Staircase that will strike you with its splendor, the glimmer of the golden stuccowork and the dazzling whiteness of the marble statues. View the Winter Palace superb staterooms: the Field-marshal's Hall, the Small Throne Room commemorating Peter the Great and his deeds, the Emblem Hall with its vast gilded columns, the Gallery of 1812 displaying portraits of Russian military heroes of the Napoleonic war, the Hall of St. George fitted in Cararra marble and gilt bronze.

Marvel the Pavilion Hall with its slender marble columns supporting an elegant gallery and 28 scintillating cut-glass chandeliers. A real gem in the Hermitage collection is the famous Peacock Clock in a glass cage made by a celebrated English clockmaker in the middle 18th century and presented to Catherine II by her favorite, prince Potyomkin.

You will continue the tour moving from one building into another by covered galleries. Visit the Old Hermitage that houses a vast Italian collection of art boasting such names as Leonardo Da Vinci, Titian, Rafael and Michelangelo. Next, proceed to the New Hermitage and admire spacious Skylight Halls featuring 17-18^th century Italian art and Spanish leading artists of the golden age from El Greco to Murillo, Zurbaran, Velasquez and Goya. Do not miss the Hermitage Rembrandt collection of 23 paintings as well as some great examples of Dutch and Flemish art.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.2 miles (1.9 kilometres). Although this excursion is wheelchair accessible, guests must be accompanied by an assistant in order to stay with the group. Although the museum has elevators, there is a large number of stairs to negotiate throughout the museum and at the entrances. Guests who utilise wheelchairs must advise the Shore Concierge Desk ahead of time in order to pre-arrange the use of the elevators in the Hermitage, which are not accessible to all visitors. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. Flash photography is not allowed. A café and restroom facilities are available at the museum. A minimum number of guests is required to operate this program

Tour the world-famous Hermitage Museum and explore its priceless collection of art.

Hermitage Museum

No visit to St. Petersburg would be complete without a tour of the world-famous Hermitage Museum - the "Crown Jewel" on the museum list in St. Petersburg. Founded in 1764 as a private museum of Catherine the Great to which only she and her closest courtiers had access, today it is Russia's largest art museum that owns an astounding collection of about 3 mln pieces of art.

Start from the Jordan Staircase that will strike you with its splendor, the glimmer of the golden stuccowork and the dazzling whiteness of the marble statues. View the Winter Palace superb staterooms: the Field-marshal's Hall, the Small Throne Room commemorating Peter the Great and his deeds, the Emblem Hall with its vast gilded columns, the Gallery of 1812 displaying portraits of Russian military heroes of the Napoleonic war, the Hall of St. George fitted in Cararra marble and gilt bronze.

Marvel the Pavilion Hall with its slender marble columns supporting an elegant gallery and 28 scintillating cut-glass chandeliers. A real gem in the Hermitage collection is the famous Peacock Clock in a glass cage made by a celebrated English clockmaker in the middle 18th century and presented to Catherine II by her favorite, prince Potyomkin.

You will continue the tour moving from one building into another by covered galleries. Visit the Old Hermitage that houses a vast Italian collection of art boasting such names as Leonardo Da Vinci, Titian, Rafael and Michelangelo. Next, proceed to the New Hermitage and admire spacious Skylight Halls featuring 17-18^th century Italian art and Spanish leading artists of the golden age from El Greco to Murillo, Zurbaran, Velasquez and Goya. Do not miss the Hermitage Rembrandt collection of 23 paintings as well as some great examples of Dutch and Flemish art.

Please note: Tour is guided in German, minimum number of guests is required to operate.It involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.2 miles (1.9 kilometres). Although this excursion is wheelchair accessible, guests must be accompanied by an assistant in order to stay with the group. Although the museum has elevators, there is a large number of stairs to negotiate throughout the museum and at the entrances. Guests who utilise wheelchairs must advise the Shore Concierge Desk ahead of time in order to pre-arrange the use of the elevators in the Hermitage, which are not accessible to all visitors. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. Flash photography is not allowed. A café and restroom facilities are available at the museum.

Tour the world-famous Hermitage Museum and explore its priceless collection of art.

Hermitage Museum

No visit to St. Petersburg would be complete without a tour of the world-famous Hermitage Museum - the "Crown Jewel" on the museum list in St. Petersburg. Founded in 1764 as a private museum of Catherine the Great to which only she and her closest courtiers had access, today it is Russia's largest art museum that owns an astounding collection of about 3 mln pieces of art.

Start from the Jordan Staircase that will strike you with its splendor, the glimmer of the golden stuccowork and the dazzling whiteness of the marble statues. View the Winter Palace superb staterooms: the Field-marshal's Hall, the Small Throne Room commemorating Peter the Great and his deeds, the Emblem Hall with its vast gilded columns, the Gallery of 1812 displaying portraits of Russian military heroes of the Napoleonic war, the Hall of St. George fitted in Cararra marble and gilt bronze.

Marvel the Pavilion Hall with its slender marble columns supporting an elegant gallery and 28 scintillating cut-glass chandeliers. A real gem in the Hermitage collection is the famous Peacock Clock in a glass cage made by a celebrated English clockmaker in the middle 18th century and presented to Catherine II by her favorite, prince Potyomkin.

You will continue the tour moving from one building into another by covered galleries. Visit the Old Hermitage that houses a vast Italian collection of art boasting such names as Leonardo Da Vinci, Titian, Rafael and Michelangelo. Next, proceed to the New Hermitage and admire spacious Skylight Halls featuring 17-18^th century Italian art and Spanish leading artists of the golden age from El Greco to Murillo, Zurbaran, Velasquez and Goya. Do not miss the Hermitage Rembrandt collection of 23 paintings as well as some great examples of Dutch and Flemish art.

Please note: Tour is guided in Spanish, minimum number of guests is required to operate.It involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.2 miles (1.9 kilometres). Although this excursion is wheelchair accessible, guests must be accompanied by an assistant in order to stay with the group. Although the museum has elevators, there is a large number of stairs to negotiate throughout the museum and at the entrances. Guests who utilise wheelchairs must advise the Shore Concierge Desk ahead of time in order to pre-arrange the use of the elevators in the Hermitage, which are not accessible to all visitors. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. Flash photography is not allowed. A café and restroom facilities are available at the museum. A minimum number of guests is required to operate this program

Dramatic political, economic and social changes in Russia have attracted attention of the whole world. Yet, the fact remains that few westerners really understand life in today's Russia. Enjoy a unique look inside country's life affected by the collapse of the Communist regime and subsequent liberalization of the country.

Your tour will start with a short drive to one of the closest underground stations.

Metro Ride

The St. Petersburg subway that is called "metro" in Russian is certainly worth a visit. The first plans to build a metro in St. Petersburg were drawn in 1899, but were not implemented due to the outbreak of WWI and then the Revolution of 1917. In 1941, 8 years after the Moscow metro was opened, construction works began on the Leningrad metro, but a few months later the U.S.S.R. was forced to enter WWII. After the war the construction work resumed and the first metro line (from Avtovo to Ploschad Vosstania) was opened on November 15, 1955 linking all the five railway stations of the city.

From the moment it opened, it was acclaimed as one of the best in the world not only because of its efficiency and cleanliness, but also for its architecture. Today it is the quickest, safest, most reliable and comfortable means of travel. Most of the stations are equipped with escalators. The older stations are richly decorated with polished granite, marble of various colors, stainless steel, bronze, aluminium, synthetic materials, glass, various mosaics, bas-reliefs and sculptures. The new stations are mostly simple and modern in design, but not less impressive. Each station has its own unique design.

The St. Petersburg Metro is also the deepest subway in the world with some stations located more than 100 meters under the ground surface.

Farmer's Market

You will leave Metro at one of the central stations and find yourself near the Kuznechny Food Market. Follow your guide to the market and enjoy a huge variety of food sold there as well as friendly atmosphere. You will even have a chance to sample some of the food.

Russian Vodka Tasting

After the visit to the market, continue to a local Russian restaurant for an enjoyable vodka tasting. You will be treated to a variety of vodkas together with traditional Russian condiments served to complement this famous Russian drink before your return to the ship.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking and is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are encouraged to wear seasonal clothing with flat, comfortable shoes. Photos and video are not allowed during the Metro Ride. Guests receive tokens for entering the metro. The farmer's market may be crowded, we encourage guests to leave their valuables on board the ship and remain aware of your surroundings.

Take a step back in history to the time of Catherine the Great during this exclusive shore excursion. This memorable tour of the Hermitage Museum, and a classical music performance by the State Hermitage Orchestra.

During the time of Catherine the Great, the staterooms of the Royal Winter Residence in St. Petersburg were opened for evening musical receptions for her friends and foreign guests. She would show them new acquisitions for her rapidly growing collection of European paintings. As a special Silversea offer, this 18th-century tradition is revived for your entertainment.

Hermitage Museum / Winter Palace

Depart the pier for the approximate 30-minute drive to the Hermitage Museum. Upon arrival, take a guided tour through the numerous staterooms of the Winter Palace after the museum has closed. Along the way, see the exquisite masterpieces of its famous collection of Western European art.

Following the guided tour, proceed for a champagne reception, followed by a performance of classical music by the State Hermitage Orchestra.

At the conclusion of the concert, re-board your coach for the approximate 30-minute return drive to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves moderate to extensive amount of walking. Although this excursion is wheelchair-accessible, guests must be accompanied by an assistant in order to stay with the group. Although the museum has elevators, there is a large number of stairs to negotiate throughout the museum and at the entrances. Guests who utilise wheelchairs must advise the Shore Concierge Desk ahead of time in order to pre-arrange the use of the elevators in the Hermitage. Guests are encouraged to dress in smart-casual clothing with flat, comfortable shoes. Since this event takes place when the Hermitage is closed, some rooms are not available for viewing and the rooms visited are may be similar to those seen on the tour LED-C. The final route is determined by Hermitage Museum officials and is strictly controlled by security officers. Guests must follow the assigned tour route. Flash photography is not allowed inside the Hermitage. A minimum number of participants is required to operate this programme.

Explore the history of Russian jewellery and view some of its most splendid pieces during this memorable visit to the Gold and Diamond rooms of the Hermitage.

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximate 30-minute drive to the Hermitage Museum. Upon arrival, a visit is made to the Diamond Room.

The Diamond Room

The Diamond Room is home to a significant collection of archaeological finds; the famous Scythian and Greek gold, numerous royal gifts and a fabulous collection of Western European jewellery crafted by the most prominent jewellers of the time. On display are numerous rings, pendants, watches, table decoration, fans, perfume bottles, and bouquets adorned with gold, enamels, emeralds, rubies, sapphires, and pearls once worn by royalty.

A portion of the exhibit is highlighted by a superb collection of royal snuffboxes fashioned by many brilliant masters of the 18th century. The 19th-century jewellery reached its culmination in the works of Carl Fabergé. His fantasy pieces are found throughout the world, and are represented in the collection of the Diamond Room by a copy of the Russian Royal Regalia made for the World Exhibition in Paris.

The Gold Room

A visit is then made to the Gold Room, which feature a unique; three-section collection of jewellery amassed over two centuries and designed by Russian, European and Oriental artists and craftsmen. It was known as the 'Treasure Gallery' under Catherine the Great and augmented to yet greater splendour by her successors.

The 'Gold of Nomads' consists of unique archaeological finds from the North Coast of the Black Sea, Northern Caucasus and Western Siberia, including the Siberian collection of Peter the Great and the fabulous Scythian Gold of the 7th-4th centuries BC. The 'Jewellery Art of the East and South America' is an exquisite selection of Oriental jewellery collections from Central Asia, Caucasus, India, Iran, Turkey, Egypt, Byzantium, Mongolia, China, Indonesia, and South America. The 'Pre-Columbian Jewellery of South America' features a huge variety of polished gemstones in every shape, size and colour.

On this tour, you will also have a chance to see some other parts of the Hermitage Museum such as the gala rooms of the Winter Palace, Departments of Ancient Greece, Rome and Egypt.

Following your visit, re-board the coach for the approximate 30-minute return drive to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.2 miles (1.9 kilometres) and it is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Although the museum has elevators, there is a large number of stairs to negotiate throughout the museum and at the entrances. The museum is push-wheelchair accessible; however wheelchairs are not permitted in the Golden and Diamond Rooms. Photography and video are not allowed. Café and restroom facilities are available at the museum. This popular programme is limited in capacity and guests are encouraged to reserve as early as possible to avoid disappointment. This excursion focuses exclusively on the Gold & Diamond Rooms. The amount of other museum exhibits viewed will depend on the amount of time remaining. Photography is not permitted inside the Gold & Diamond Rooms. The order of sights visited may vary. Tour does not visit the halls containing regular collections. Guests may have to wait for up to 20-minutes for entrance in to the gold and diamond rooms, as entry is strictly supervised by security. This possible waiting time is beyond the control of Silversea Cruises and we appreciate your understanding.

Explore the former residences of Russian Tsars, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the famous Peterhof Lower Gardens, during this visually-stunning, full-day sightseeing excursion.

Peterhof and Tsarina's Pavilion

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive to Peterhof, and a visit to the exquisite, newly-restored Tsarina's and Olga's Pavilions. Built in the 1840s by Emperor Nicholas I for his beloved wife Alexandra and youngest daughter Olga, these architectural gems are located on two small islands in Olga's Pond, opposite the Peterhof Upper Garden. Tsarina's Pavilion includes Greek, Roman and Byzantine influences. Its Dining Room has an original mosaic floor from the excavations of ancient Pompeii, and Alexandra's study is adorned with two unique, 12th-century Byzantine mosaic columns. Highlights include splendid porcelain and bronze clocks and vases, marble and bronze sculptures, beautiful flowerbeds, fountains, Pompeian-style murals, and colourful draperies on the doors and windows.

Olga's Pavilion

Olga's Pavilion is very different from the one built for her mother, Empress Alexandra. This Pavilion was constructed in the style typical for 18th-century southern Italy, and meant to remind Olga of Palermo, which she once visited with her parents. The interior design of Olga's Pavilion is more modest and delicate. Marvel at the exquisite stucco mouldings, inlaid parquet floors, marble fireplaces and wonderful ornaments. The Dining Room and Pantry features different items from Olga's dowry, including silverware, porcelain and linen. After the Russian Revolution of 1917, both pavilions were neglected and almost totally destroyed during World War II. The restoration of these amazing pavilions began in 2001, and they were finally opened for visitors in August 2005.

Peterhof Lower Gardens and Lunch

Next, visit the famous Peterhof Lower Gardens. This approximately 300-acre (about 121-hectare) fountain park features a number of pavilions and palaces overlooking the Gulf of Finland, along with 150 fountains, including four cascades decorated with gilded statues of mythological characters. The park's upper-terrace offers a breath-taking view of the Grand Cascade, the largest fountain ensemble in the world and highlight of this venue. The Statue of Sampson Tearing Open the Jaws of a Lion dominates the Grand Cascade. Other fountains include the Checker Board Hill Cascade, Golden Hill Cascade, Lion's Cascade, Adam and Eva Fountains with statues by Bonazza, the Sun Fountain, Pyramid, and more. Following your tour, proceed for a Russian lunch at one of the finest restaurants in Peterhof.

Chinese Palace and Park of Oranienbaum

After lunch, re-board your coach and head for a visit to the 18th-century Chinese Palace and Park of Oranienbaum, located on the southern shore of the Gulf of Finland opposite the town-fortress Kronshtadt. The Chinese Palace features the unique Glass Beads Study where walls are covered with twelve panels with glass beads embroidery according the fantastic pictures of the French artist of the 18^th century J. Pillman. The interior décor includes an astonishing variety of art means and materials, decorative painting, furniture, porcelain and bronze. The palace's 17 interiors have picturesque decorated ceilings, with 12 of them made by Venetian Academy masters. The Park of Oranienbaum features approximately 3,229 square feet (about 722 square metres) of the rarest local and foreign wood. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and at the sites visited. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring a sweater or light jacket from the ship.

Relive the luxury of 18th-century Imperial Russia during this unforgettable, half-day evening excursion to one of the most amazing royal palaces.

Catherine Palace

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive south to Pushkin, and a visit to the lavish Catherine Palace, formerly 'Tsarkoye Selo'. Upon arrival, you are greeted by Royal Guards in front of the palace, which features a stunning, approximately 984-foot-long (about 300-metre-long) aqua blue and white facade adorned with a profusion of atlantes, columns, pilasters and ornamental window framings.

Palace Tour, Golden Suite of Rooms, Amber Room and Grand Hall

This beautiful summer residence is renowned for its splendid interior, luxurious furnishings and fine china.

During your guided walking tour, view an exhibition of the Romanovs' portraits and private rooms before entering the Golden Suite of Rooms, where the world-renowned Amber Room is located. Presented in 1717 to Peter the Great by King Friedrich Wilhelm, the exquisite Amber Room was once considered to be the 'Eighth Wonder of the World'. Continue to the Grand Hall, which is highlighted by large windows, mirrors, gilded carvings and vast ceiling art, for a gala champagne reception accompanied by an orchestral performance of classical music.

Imperial Carriage Museum and Dinner

Following the reception, descend the main staircase to the courtyard, where the pageantry continues. The Imperial Guards parade to the music, and a carriage arrives with the royal couple for a final dance before departing. Leaving Catherine Palace, re-board your coach and head to the Imperial Carriage Museum. Here, marvel at the 23 coaches that were owned by renowned, 18th-century and 19th-century Russian and western European masters, and once carried Russia's highest nobility. Afterward, re-board your coach and proceed for excellent dinner and a performance by a Russia folkloric group at one of the finest restaurants outside of St. Petersburg. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, with up to 60 steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and at the sites visited. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and is not wheelchair-accessible. Guests are advised to wear appropriate evening wear with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring a sweater or light jacket from the ship. Guests must be at least 21 years old to be served alcoholic beverages.

Embrace the two most popular museums of St. Petersburg - the world-famous Hermitage Museum and the new private Faberge Museum.

Hermitage Museum

No visit to St. Petersburg would be complete without a tour of the world-famous Hermitage Museum - the "Crown Jewel" on the museum list in St. Petersburg. Founded in 1764 as a private museum of Catherine the Great to which only she and her closest courtiers had access, today it is Russia's largest art museum that owns an astounding collection of about 3 mln pieces of art.

Start from the Jordan Staircase that will strike you with its splendor, the glimmer of the golden stuccowork and the dazzling whiteness of the marble statues. View the Winter Palace superb staterooms: the Field-marshal's Hall, the Small Throne Room commemorating Peter the Great and his deeds, the Emblem Hall with its vast gilded columns, the Gallery of 1812 displaying portraits of Russian military heroes of the Napoleonic war, the Hall of St. George fitted in Cararra marble and gilt bronze.

Marvel the Pavilion Hall with its slender marble columns supporting an elegant gallery and 28 scintillating cut-glass chandeliers. A real gem in the Hermitage collection is the famous Peacock Clock in a glass cage made by a celebrated English clockmaker in the middle 18th century and presented to Catherine II by her favorite, prince Potyomkin.

You will continue the tour moving from one building into another by covered galleries. Visit the Old Hermitage that houses a vast Italian collection of art boasting such names as Leonardo Da Vinci, Titian, Rafael and Michelangelo. Next, proceed to the New Hermitage and admire spacious Skylight Halls featuring 17-18^th century Italian art and Spanish leading artists of the golden age from El Greco to Murillo, Zurbaran, Velasquez and Goya. Do not miss the Hermitage Rembrandt collection of 23 paintings as well as some great examples of Dutch and Flemish art.

Following your visit to the main Hermitage building, continue to the recently opened General Staff Building of the Hermitage Museum, which now comprises the famous Impressionists and Post-Impressionists collections. You will have a chance to marvel the works of Renoir, Monet, Gauguin, Van Gogh, Cezanne and others.

Next, take a break for lunch at a local restaurant within walking distance from the Hermitage.

Faberge Museum

The private Faberge Museum opened its doors at the renovated Shuvalov Palace in St. Petersburg on November 19, 2013. Here billionaire Viktor Vekselberg has placed his priceless collection of Faberge Eggs on display for the public. The collection includes over 4,000 works of art from the late 19th and early 20th century, including fifteen Faberge eggs, nine of which are the famous Imperial Faberge eggs previously owned by the Romanov family.

It took 10 years to create the current collection, and it is still growing. You will see many unique exhibits, among which are other works of the famous jeweler, royal silverware, precious icons and other religious ornaments, collection of paintings on enamel, other objects of decorative and applied art, paintings by famous Russian and foreign artists.

Viktor Vekselberg purchased the famous Malcolm Forbes Faberge Collection from the Forbes family in 2004 for about $100 million. Most notable amongst this collection are the Rosebud Egg, Lilies-of-the-Valley Egg, Coronation Egg and, particularly the Hen Egg and the Order of St. George Egg that represent the first and last eggs received by Empress Maria, wife of Alexander III.

The first Faberge egg was crafted for Emperor Alexander III who had decided to give his wife Maria an Easter Egg in 1885 to celebrate the 20^th anniversary of their betrothal. Known as the Hen Egg, this first Faberge egg was crafted from gold. Its opaque white enameled "shell" opens to reveal its first surprise - a matte yellow gold yolk. This in turn opens to reveal a multicolored gold hen that also opens.

Empress Maria was so delighted by the gift that Alexander appointed Faberge a "goldsmith by special appointment to the Imperial Crown" and commissioned another egg the next year. After that Peter Carl Faberge was apparently given complete freedom for future Imperial Easter Eggs, and their designs become more elaborate. It is believed that even the Tsar didn't know what form they would take: the only requirement was that each contain a surprise.

Vekselberg's nine Imperial Easter Eggs are of the 50 that are left in the world today. Ten are in the Moscow Kremlin Collection, five are at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond, Va., and Britain's Queen Elizabeth II. The whereabouts of eight are unknown. The others are in various displays throughout the U.S., Switzerland and Monaco.

Following the visit to the museum rejoin the coach for the transfer back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 3-4.5 miles. This excursion is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilize a wheelchair. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. Flash photography is not allowed. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended and shorts are not permitted. A minimum number of guests per guide is required to operate this program.

Explore St. Petersburg at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customize your own itinerary once onboard or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Information to help you plan your itinerary:

· Silver Shore Privato is considered a ship-sponsored tour and no individual Russian visa is required.

· The drive between the pier and the center of the city is approximately 20 minutes in each direction. However, as with most large cities, traffic congestion can be an issue and should be anticipated. Please allow adequate travel time in your planning.

· Venues have different days of opening and hours of operation. The chart below is a general guideline.

· Most venues have entrance fees; in addition some venues require extra fees which are not included, and additional charges to bring a camera or video recorder.

· To avoid waiting in line, the local tour operator will secure entrance tickets for your desired program, and your onboard account will be charged per ticket at the end of your touring day.

· Tour duration may be increased beyond the time specified. This must be requested onboard and will result in additional hourly fees.

· Foreign language guides may be requested onboard and are at an additional cost to be advised once availability is confirmed.

· Our onboard Shore Concierge will be pleased to assist you with any further questions and to assist in itinerary planning. Please confirm your venue choices with the team onboard.

· Once onboard the ship you will receive a form for you to confirm your itinerary and to identify the names of the guests in your party, required for disembarkation.

· As St. Petersburg is a most popular destination, please anticipate crowds at most venues, few of which offer any air-conditioning. Dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Catherine Palace: Closed Tuesdays & last Monday of each month

Available during early opening on regular days and special opening on Tuesday 8:30-10:30. Not available in the afternoon.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Not recommended for guests with walking difficulties, about 46 steps. Elevator available ONLY for guests in wheelchairs.

Non-refundable once booked

Allow a Half Day

Central Naval Museum /Artillery Museum: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 11:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

Wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood: Closed Wednesdays

Open: Thu-Tue: 10:30-18:00, evening opening 18:00-22:30 at special price.

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

4 steps to enter the Church; entrance is equipped with a ramp for wheelchairs.

Allow a Half Day

Cruiser Aurora: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 11:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

Steps, not wheelchair accessible

Grand Palace at Peterhof: Closed Mondays & last Tuesday of each month

Available during early opening on regular days 9:00-11:00; 14:30-16:30 and in some cases during special opening on Monday.

Lower Park is open daily 9:00-21:00, fountains operating time 11:00-18:00.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Wheelchairs permitted in park only; 37 steps to cover inside the Palace, no elevators or ramps.

Allow a Full Day

Hermitage Museum: Closed Mondays

Open: Tue-Sat: 10:30-17:00, Sun: 10:30-16:00, Wed, Fri: 10:30-21:00. For Silversea guests also available during early opening 9:00-10:30.

Travel Time (each way): 15-30 minutes

No Air Conditioning, Wheelchair accessible, Considerable walking

Allow a Half Day or Full Day

Hermitage Gold Room: Closed Mondays

Available at advance booking only.

Travel Time (each way): 15-30 minutes

Additional Fee - Must be reserved and prepaid at shoreconcierge@silversea.com

Non- refundable once booked

Allow a Half Day

Menshikov Palace: Closed Mondays

Open: Tue-Sun: 10:30-16:30

Travel Time (each way): 20-30 minutes

Not wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Pavlovsk Palace: Closed last Monday of the month

Open: Sat-Thu: 10:00-18:00

Pavlovsk Park is open daily 6:00-21:00.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Wheelchairs permitted in park only

Allow a Half Day

Peter & Paul Fortress: Open Daily

Open: Wed-Mon: 10:00-18:00, Tues: 10:00-16:00

Travel Time (each way): 30 minutes

Two Steps, venue wheelchair accessible otherwise

Allow a Half Day

Peter's Log Cabin: Closed Tuesday & last Monday of the month

Open: Wed-Mon: 10:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

2 steps to enter the museum

Allow a Half Day

Russian Museum: Closed Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 10:00-18:00, Mon: 10:00-20:00, Thursday: 13:00-21:00

Travel Time (each way): 30 minutes

50 steps to cover inside the museum, but the Museum is wheelchair accessible.

Allow a Half Day

St. Isaac's Cathedral: Closed Wednesdays

Open: Thu-Tue: 10:30-18:00, evening opening 18:00-22:30 at special price.

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

8 high steps to enter the Cathedral; entrance is equipped with a ramp for wheelchairs.

St. Isaac's Colonnade is not wheelchair accessible; there are 265 steps to the observation point.

Allow a Half Day

Synagogue: On Saturdays it's only possible to attend a service, not tours allowed

Open: Sun-Fri: 09:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

21 steps to enter, not wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Yusupov Palace: Open Daily

Open: Mon-Sun: 10:45-17:00

Travel Time (each way): 20-30 minutes

45 steps up to the first floor, 16 narrow steps down to the basement and 12 steps down to the theatre on the first floor

Advance booking is required. Non-refundable once booked.

Allow a Half Day

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 4 guests per minivan. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle; therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program and the cost of the tour may be split between suites. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to confirm your individual itinerary and departure time. Deviations to duration, venue admissions and additional camera or video fees will be charged to your onboard account. Silversea Cruises does not match groups of guests to form a private group for the vehicle.

Explore St. Petersburg at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customize your own itinerary once onboard or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Information to help you plan your itinerary:

· Silver Shore Privato is considered a ship-sponsored tour and no individual Russian visa is required.

· The drive between the pier and the center of the city is approximately 20 minutes in each direction. However, as with most large cities, traffic congestion can be an issue and should be anticipated. Please allow adequate travel time in your planning.

· Venues have different days of opening and hours of operation. The chart below is a general guideline.

· Most venues have entrance fees; in addition some venues require extra fees which are not included, and additional charges to bring a camera or video recorder.

· To avoid waiting in line, the local tour operator will secure entrance tickets for your desired program, and your onboard account will be charged per ticket at the end of your touring day.

· Tour duration may be increased beyond the time specified. This must be requested onboard and will result in additional hourly fees.

· Foreign language guides may be requested onboard and are at an additional cost to be advised once availability is confirmed.

· Our onboard Shore Concierge will be pleased to assist you with any further questions and to assist in itinerary planning. Please confirm your venue choices with the team onboard.

· Once onboard the ship you will receive a form for you to confirm your itinerary and to identify the names of the guests in your party, required for disembarkation.

· As St. Petersburg is a most popular destination, please anticipate crowds at most venues, few of which offer any air-conditioning. Dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Catherine Palace: Closed Tuesdays & last Monday of each month

Available during early opening on regular days and special opening on Tuesday 8:30-10:30. Not available in the afternoon.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Not recommended for guests with walking difficulties, about 46 steps. Elevator available ONLY for guests in wheelchairs.

Non-refundable once booked

Allow a Half Day

Central Naval Museum /Artillery Museum: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 11:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

Wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood: Closed Wednesdays

Open: Thu-Tue: 10:30-18:00, evening opening 18:00-22:30 at special price.

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

4 steps to enter the Church; entrance is equipped with a ramp for wheelchairs.

Allow a Half Day

Cruiser Aurora: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 11:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

Steps, not wheelchair accessible

Grand Palace at Peterhof: Closed Mondays & last Tuesday of each month

Available during early opening on regular days 9:00-11:00; 14:30-16:30 and in some cases during special opening on Monday.

Lower Park is open daily 9:00-21:00, fountains operating time 11:00-18:00.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Wheelchairs permitted in park only; 37 steps to cover inside the Palace, no elevators or ramps.

Allow a Full Day

Hermitage Museum: Closed Mondays

Open: Tue-Sat: 10:30-17:00, Sun: 10:30-16:00, Wed, Fri: 10:30-21:00. For Silversea guests also available during early opening 9:00-10:30.

Travel Time (each way): 15-30 minutes

No Air Conditioning, Wheelchair accessible, Considerable walking

Allow a Half Day or Full Day

Hermitage Gold Room: Closed Mondays

Available at advance booking only.

Travel Time (each way): 15-30 minutes

Additional Fee - Must be reserved and prepaid at shoreconcierge@silversea.com

Non- refundable once booked

Allow a Half Day

Menshikov Palace: Closed Mondays

Open: Tue-Sun: 10:30-16:30

Travel Time (each way): 20-30 minutes

Not wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Pavlovsk Palace: Closed last Monday of the month

Open: Sat-Thu: 10:00-18:00

Pavlovsk Park is open daily 6:00-21:00.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Wheelchairs permitted in park only

Allow a Half Day

Peter & Paul Fortress: Open Daily

Open: Wed-Mon: 10:00-18:00, Tues: 10:00-16:00

Travel Time (each way): 30 minutes

Two Steps, venue wheelchair accessible otherwise

Allow a Half Day

Peter's Log Cabin: Closed Tuesday & last Monday of the month

Open: Wed-Mon: 10:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

2 steps to enter the museum

Allow a Half Day

Russian Museum: Closed Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 10:00-18:00, Mon: 10:00-20:00, Thursday: 13:00-21:00

Travel Time (each way): 30 minutes

50 steps to cover inside the museum, but the Museum is wheelchair accessible.

Allow a Half Day

St. Isaac's Cathedral: Closed Wednesdays

Open: Thu-Tue: 10:30-18:00, evening opening 18:00-22:30 at special price.

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

8 high steps to enter the Cathedral; entrance is equipped with a ramp for wheelchairs.

St. Isaac's Colonnade is not wheelchair accessible; there are 265 steps to the observation point.

Allow a Half Day

Synagogue: On Saturdays it's only possible to attend a service, not tours allowed

Open: Sun-Fri: 09:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

21 steps to enter, not wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Yusupov Palace: Open Daily

Open: Mon-Sun: 10:45-17:00

Travel Time (each way): 20-30 minutes

45 steps up to the first floor, 16 narrow steps down to the basement and 12 steps down to the theatre on the first floor

Advance booking is required. Non-refundable once booked.

Allow a Half Day

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 4 guests per minivan. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle; therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program and the cost of the tour may be split between suites. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to confirm your individual itinerary and departure time. Deviations to duration, venue admissions and additional camera or video fees will be charged to your onboard account. Silversea Cruises does not match groups of guests to form a private group for the vehicle.

Explore St. Petersburg at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customize your own itinerary once onboard or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Information to help you plan your itinerary:

· Silver Shore Privato is considered a ship-sponsored tour and no individual Russian visa is required.

· The drive between the pier and the center of the city is approximately 20 minutes in each direction. However, as with most large cities, traffic congestion can be an issue and should be anticipated. Please allow adequate travel time in your planning.

· Venues have different days of opening and hours of operation. The chart below is a general guideline.

· Most venues have entrance fees; in addition some venues require extra fees which are not included, and additional charges to bring a camera or video recorder.

· To avoid waiting in line, the local tour operator will secure entrance tickets for your desired program, and your onboard account will be charged per ticket at the end of your touring day.

· Tour duration may be increased beyond the time specified. This must be requested onboard and will result in additional hourly fees.

· Foreign language guides may be requested onboard and are at an additional cost to be advised once availability is confirmed.

· Our onboard Shore Concierge will be pleased to assist you with any further questions and to assist in itinerary planning. Please confirm your venue choices with the team onboard.

· Once onboard the ship you will receive a form for you to confirm your itinerary and to identify the names of the guests in your party, required for disembarkation.

· As St. Petersburg is a most popular destination, please anticipate crowds at most venues, few of which offer any air-conditioning. Dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Catherine Palace: Closed Tuesdays & last Monday of each month

Available during early opening on regular days and special opening on Tuesday 8:30-10:30. Not available in the afternoon.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Not recommended for guests with walking difficulties, about 46 steps. Elevator available ONLY for guests in wheelchairs.

Non-refundable once booked

Allow a Half Day

Central Naval Museum /Artillery Museum: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 11:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

Wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood: Closed Wednesdays

Open: Thu-Tue: 10:30-18:00, evening opening 18:00-22:30 at special price.

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

4 steps to enter the Church; entrance is equipped with a ramp for wheelchairs.

Allow a Half Day

Cruiser Aurora: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 11:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

Steps, not wheelchair accessible

Grand Palace at Peterhof: Closed Mondays & last Tuesday of each month

Available during early opening on regular days 9:00-11:00; 14:30-16:30 and in some cases during special opening on Monday.

Lower Park is open daily 9:00-21:00, fountains operating time 11:00-18:00.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Wheelchairs permitted in park only; 37 steps to cover inside the Palace, no elevators or ramps.

Allow a Full Day

Hermitage Museum: Closed Mondays

Open: Tue-Sat: 10:30-17:00, Sun: 10:30-16:00, Wed, Fri: 10:30-21:00. For Silversea guests also available during early opening 9:00-10:30.

Travel Time (each way): 15-30 minutes

No Air Conditioning, Wheelchair accessible, Considerable walking

Allow a Half Day or Full Day

Hermitage Gold Room: Closed Mondays

Available at advance booking only.

Travel Time (each way): 15-30 minutes

Additional Fee - Must be reserved and prepaid at shoreconcierge@silversea.com

Non- refundable once booked

Allow a Half Day

Menshikov Palace: Closed Mondays

Open: Tue-Sun: 10:30-16:30

Travel Time (each way): 20-30 minutes

Not wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Pavlovsk Palace: Closed last Monday of the month

Open: Sat-Thu: 10:00-18:00

Pavlovsk Park is open daily 6:00-21:00.

Travel Time (each way): 50-60 minutes

Wheelchairs permitted in park only

Allow a Half Day

Peter & Paul Fortress: Open Daily

Open: Wed-Mon: 10:00-18:00, Tues: 10:00-16:00

Travel Time (each way): 30 minutes

Two Steps, venue wheelchair accessible otherwise

Allow a Half Day

Peter's Log Cabin: Closed Tuesday & last Monday of the month

Open: Wed-Mon: 10:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

2 steps to enter the museum

Allow a Half Day

Russian Museum: Closed Tuesdays

Open: Wed-Sun: 10:00-18:00, Mon: 10:00-20:00, Thursday: 13:00-21:00

Travel Time (each way): 30 minutes

50 steps to cover inside the museum, but the Museum is wheelchair accessible.

Allow a Half Day

St. Isaac's Cathedral: Closed Wednesdays

Open: Thu-Tue: 10:30-18:00, evening opening 18:00-22:30 at special price.

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

8 high steps to enter the Cathedral; entrance is equipped with a ramp for wheelchairs.

St. Isaac's Colonnade is not wheelchair accessible; there are 265 steps to the observation point.

Allow a Half Day

Synagogue: On Saturdays it's only possible to attend a service, not tours allowed

Open: Sun-Fri: 09:00-18:00

Travel Time (each way): 30-45 minutes

21 steps to enter, not wheelchair accessible

Allow a Half Day

Yusupov Palace: Open Daily

Open: Mon-Sun: 10:45-17:00

Travel Time (each way): 20-30 minutes

45 steps up to the first floor, 16 narrow steps down to the basement and 12 steps down to the theatre on the first floor

Advance booking is required. Non-refundable once booked.

Allow a Half Day

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 8 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle; therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program and the cost of the tour may be split between suites. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to confirm your individual itinerary and departure time. Deviations to duration, venue admissions and additional camera or video fees will be charged to your onboard account. Silversea Cruises does not match groups of guests to form a private group for the vehicle.

The whole world knows that St. Petersburg owes its existence to Peter the Great for all the great accomplishments of his reign including the foundation of a new city on the banks of the Neva River, a new capital of Russia which became the countries "window to the West". On this tour you will visit several sights that still remember the great tsar and retain the atmosphere of the early 18th century.

Menshikov Palace

Depart the pier for a 15-minute coach ride to enjoy an inside visit to the Palace of Alexander Menshikov (1673-1729) who was the best friend and companion of Peter the Great. He came from a very humble background, but was quickly promoted by Peter and eventually became the Governor General of St. Petersburg. Many constructions of the new capital were carried out under his supervision, including the Peter and Paul Fortress and Kronshtadt. Being the Governor General, he commissioned for himself a large palace on Vasilievsky Island where he lived until 1727. The palace was the most luxurious mansion in St. Petersburg and was therefore chosen to host various official functions.

After Peter's death in 1725, Menshikov did his best to ensure that the throne would pass safely to Peter's wife Catherine I, and during the two years of her reign Menshikov effectively ruled the country. In 1727, a few weeks before his daughter's marriage to the young Emperor Peter II, Menshikov was accused of treason and embezzlement and was exiled with his whole family to Siberia where he died in poverty two years later.

Today Menshikov Palace is part of the Hermitage Museum. On the tour of the Palace you will view the original interiors, including the hall, the gala staircase, some rooms decorated in Dutch style with tiles covering the walls and the ceilings. The interiors of the palace are adorned with gold, silver, marble, precious kinds of wood, paintings, moldings, antique Italian sculptures, large Venetian mirrors, crystal chandeliers, walls are upholstered with Chinese silk and tapestries. The palace features rich collections of applied art, sculpture, coins and canvases by Russian and European artists. The Walnut study is especially remarkable. The restorers of the study discovered a fresco dating back to the first quarter of the 18th century under the plafond painted in 1717-1719 by F. Pilmann. It depicts Peter the Great as a victorious warrior.

Log Cabin of Peter the Great

Following the tour of the Menshikov Palace, you will reboard your coach and drive to the Peter's Embankment where the earliest structure of the city still stands - the Log Cabin of Peter the Great. It was built in May 1703 by a team of soldiers for the Tsar just in three days and Peter stayed there from 1703 to 1708. The cabin is only 60 square meters in area. In 1784 the original wooden house was hidden from wind and rain inside a red-brick pavilion, so you will follow your guide inside that brick "case" to view the cabin with your own eyes, but only from outside. However through the open windows you will be able to see the interior of this tiny house - a strange combination of a traditional Russian izba and a Dutch home with large and elaborate windows and high roof, covered with wooden tiles. The living room, the bedroom, and the study, filled with Peter's original belongings, still bear the mark of his presence.

During the Second World War the Cabin of Peter the Great was the first museum to reopen in 1944 after the dramatic 900-day Siege of Leningrad.

Summer Garden Stroll

Across the river from the Log Cabin you can find an old park behind the beautiful wrought iron fence - the Summer Garden. It was the first garden of the new city intended for public promenades and it witnessed the most spectacular moments of the city's early history. It was laid out in the regular geometrical design fashionable in Europe in the early 18^th century: all trees and bushes were trimmed in the most elaborate way, all the alleys were decorated with Italian marble statues and fountains. Inside the Summer Garden you will also view from the outside the Summer Palace of Peter I (now on restoration) - a beautiful example of St. Petersburg's early 18^th century architecture.

Scenic Boat Cruise

Following the walk around the Summer Garden, proceed to the pier located in front of the main entrance to the Garden for a 45-minute boat ride to view more of the city's sites from the water. St. Petersburg was built around a network of canals and rivers, with a total length of about 300 km. They contribute to the unique atmosphere creating a glittery mirror in which the golden domes and fairytale palaces of the city are reflected.

The boat ride ends at the pier where you re-board the coach for the transfer back to your ship.

Please note: Tour involves extensive walking over uneven surfaces, and numerous steps to negotiate. It is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or for those who use a wheelchair. We suggest wearing seasonal clothes.The route of the boat ride may vary due to high water level and bridge repair works. In case of stormy weather, the boat ride may be cancelled

Explore the magnificent beauty and amazing restoration of the Catherine Palace during this scenic and informative half-day visit to Pushkin.

Depart the pier for a scenic, one-hour drive to Pushkin. En route, pass by the landmarks, industrial and residential areas of St. Petersburg. Upon arrival to the parking area, leave the coach for an approximately 15-minute walk to the palace complex, which is embellished with blue and gold tones.

Catherine Palace

Located in Tsarskoye Selo, or 'Tsar's Village', the estate was presented by Peter the Great to his wife Catherine in 1710, and served as the Imperial family's summer residence until the time of the last tsar. A romantic park with mysterious arbours, pavilions, grottoes, and statues surrounds the Catherine Palace. Upon arrival, admire the palace's beautiful, 984-foot (300-metre) azure facades, and then ascend the Great Staircase en route to the beautiful staterooms on the second floor. See the Picture Gallery, Green Dining Room, and the gilded and opulent Great Hall, where official balls and receptions were held.

The highlight of your visit is the restored Amber Room, opened to the public in May 2003 to coincide with the 300th anniversary of St. Petersburg. German emperor Frederick William I originally presented the approximate 16-foot (about 5-metre) high mosaic panels consisting of nearly 100,000 perfectly-fitted pieces to Peter the Great. They were dismantled by German troops in 1941 and shipped to Germany, never to be found again. In 1982, Russian architects and craftsmen studied the old methods of working with amber, and began re-creating the panels and restoring the Amber Room to its original glory.

Following your visit, take a guided, 45-minute walk through the 1,400-acre (566-hectare) park en route to the coach, then commence the one-hour return drive to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking, and numerous steps to negotiate. This tour is not recommended for infants or toddlers, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are encouraged to wear seasonal clothing with flat, comfortable shoes. Guests are provided with special slipcovers to wear over their shoes inside the palace. A café, exchange bureau and souvenir shop is located on the ground floor of Catherine Palace. Some vendors accept credit cards. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. A minimum number of guests per guide is required to operate this programme.

Explore the magnificent beauty and amazing restoration of the Catherine Palace during this scenic and informative half-day visit to Pushkin.

Depart the pier for a scenic, one-hour drive to Pushkin. En route, pass by the landmarks, industrial and residential areas of St. Petersburg. Upon arrival to the parking area, leave the coach for an approximately 15-minute walk to the palace complex, which is embellished with blue and gold tones.

Catherine Palace

Located in Tsarskoye Selo, or 'Tsar's Village', the estate was presented by Peter the Great to his wife Catherine in 1710, and served as the Imperial family's summer residence until the time of the last tsar. A romantic park with mysterious arbours, pavilions, grottoes, and statues surrounds the Catherine Palace. Upon arrival, admire the palace's beautiful, 984-foot (300-metre) azure facades, and then ascend the Great Staircase en route to the beautiful staterooms on the second floor. See the Picture Gallery, Green Dining Room, and the gilded and opulent Great Hall, where official balls and receptions were held.

The highlight of your visit is the restored Amber Room, opened to the public in May 2003 to coincide with the 300th anniversary of St. Petersburg. German emperor Frederick William I originally presented the approximate 16-foot (about 5-metre) high mosaic panels consisting of nearly 100,000 perfectly-fitted pieces to Peter the Great. They were dismantled by German troops in 1941 and shipped to Germany, never to be found again. In 1982, Russian architects and craftsmen studied the old methods of working with amber, and began re-creating the panels and restoring the Amber Room to its original glory.

Following your visit, take a guided, 45-minute walk through the 1,400-acre (566-hectare) park en route to the coach, then commence the one-hour return drive to the pier.

Please note: Tour is Guided in German, minimum amount of guests required to operate. It involves an extensive amount of walking, and numerous steps to negotiate. This tour is not recommended for infants or toddlers, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are encouraged to wear seasonal clothing with flat, comfortable shoes. Guests are provided with special slipcovers to wear over their shoes inside the palace. A café, exchange bureau and souvenir shop is located on the ground floor of Catherine Palace. Some vendors accept credit cards. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. A minimum number of guests per guide is required to operate this programme.

Explore the magnificent beauty and amazing restoration of the Catherine Palace during this scenic and informative half-day visit to Pushkin.

Depart the pier for a scenic, one-hour drive to Pushkin. En route, pass by the landmarks, industrial and residential areas of St. Petersburg. Upon arrival to the parking area, leave the coach for an approximately 15-minute walk to the palace complex, which is embellished with blue and gold tones.

Catherine Palace

Located in Tsarskoye Selo, or 'Tsar's Village', the estate was presented by Peter the Great to his wife Catherine in 1710, and served as the Imperial family's summer residence until the time of the last tsar. A romantic park with mysterious arbours, pavilions, grottoes, and statues surrounds the Catherine Palace. Upon arrival, admire the palace's beautiful, 984-foot (300-metre) azure facades, and then ascend the Great Staircase en route to the beautiful staterooms on the second floor. See the Picture Gallery, Green Dining Room, and the gilded and opulent Great Hall, where official balls and receptions were held.

The highlight of your visit is the restored Amber Room, opened to the public in May 2003 to coincide with the 300th anniversary of St. Petersburg. German emperor Frederick William I originally presented the approximate 16-foot (about 5-metre) high mosaic panels consisting of nearly 100,000 perfectly-fitted pieces to Peter the Great. They were dismantled by German troops in 1941 and shipped to Germany, never to be found again. In 1982, Russian architects and craftsmen studied the old methods of working with amber, and began re-creating the panels and restoring the Amber Room to its original glory.

Following your visit, take a guided, 45-minute walk through the 1,400-acre (566-hectare) park en route to the coach, then commence the one-hour return drive to the pier.

Please note: Tour is Guided in Spanish, minimum amount of guests required to operate. It involves an extensive amount of walking, and numerous steps to negotiate. This tour is not recommended for infants or toddlers, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are encouraged to wear seasonal clothing with flat, comfortable shoes. Guests are provided with special slipcovers to wear over their shoes inside the palace. A café, exchange bureau and souvenir shop is located on the ground floor of Catherine Palace. Some vendors accept credit cards. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. A minimum number of guests per guide is required to operate this programme.

Explore St. Petersburg's most spectacular suburban residences during this memorable, full-day tour of the Catherine and Pavlovsk Palaces.

Catherine Palace

Following an hour-long drive, you will tour the Catherine palace that is considered to be one of the masterpieces of the world architecture. The lavish imperial palace was designed by architect Rastrelli in 1752 for Empress Elizabeth. She named it Catherine Palace in honor of her mother, Catherine I, who originally owned the estate.

You start the tour of the palace from the Great staircase by Monighetty which takes you to the state rooms on the first floor. The interior consists of a seemingly interminable succession of state-rooms, which give the impression of a golden corridor. The highlight of the visit is the splendid Great Hall. Light streams into this glittering hall illuminating the mirrors, gilded carvings and the vast ceiling painting. Of special interest is the Amber Room of the palace that was once considered to be the "Eighth Wonder of the World". You will learn the fascinating story of this room.

After the palace tour, take a brief guided stroll in the 1,400-acre (566-hectare) park. Following your visit to Catherine's Palace, re-board your coach and proceed to a Podvorie Restaurant for a traditional Russian lunch accompanied by folkloric music.

Pavlovsk Palace

Following lunch, you will visit the Palace of Pavlovsk, one of Russia's most beautifully restored palaces which belonged to Emperor Paul I and his wife Maria. The palace remained a residence of the Romanov family until 1915. Though the palace and the park were destroyed in 1941-44, they have been completely restored and present the most complete picture of a royal suburban residence. Pavlovsk is a place that has retained an atmosphere of warm intimacy and sumptuous coziness, which still enchants visitors.

Following your palace tour, take a guided walk in the romantic, 1,800-acre (728-hectare) Pavlovsk Park, one of the finest landscaped parks in Europe. Leaving Pavlovsk Park, re-board your coach for the approximate 1.25-hour return drive to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking, at times over flat and gravel surfaces, with many steps to negotiate inside the palaces. This tour is not recommended for infants and toddlers, guests with limited mobility or guests who utilise a wheelchair. There are no elevators inside the palaces. Guests are encouraged to wear layered clothing and flat, comfortable shoes. Guests are provided with special slipcovers to wear over their shoes inside the palaces. Expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays at the palaces. The tour sequence may vary.

This tour will introduce you to the treasures of Russian jewelry art exhibited in the private Faberge Museum, and allow you to enjoy the great city views from water in a leisurely manner.

Faberge Museum

The private Faberge Museum opened its doors at the renovated Shuvalov Palace in St. Petersburg on November 19, 2013. Here billionaire Viktor Vekselberg has placed his priceless collection of Faberge Eggs on display for the general public.

The collection includes over 4,000 works of art from the late 19th and early 20th century, including fifteen Faberge eggs, nine of which are the famous Imperial Faberge eggs previously owned by the Romanov family.

It took 10 years to create the current collection, and it is still growing. You will see many unique exhibits, among which are other works of the famous jeweler, royal silverware, precious icons and other religious ornaments, collection of paintings on enamel, other objects of decorative and applied art, paintings by famous Russian and foreign artists.

Viktor Vekselberg purchased the famous Malcolm Forbes Faberge Collection from the Forbes family in 2004 for about $100 million. Most notable amongst this collection are the Rosebud Egg, Lilies-of-the-Valley Egg, Coronation Egg and, particularly the Hen Egg and the Order of St. George Egg that represent the first and last eggs received by Empress Maria, wife of Alexander III.

The first Faberge egg was crafted for Emperor Alexander III who had decided to give his wife Maria an Easter Egg in 1885 to celebrate the 20^th anniversary of their betrothal. Known as the Hen Egg, this first Faberge egg was crafted from gold. Its opaque white enameled "shell" opens to reveal its first surprise - a matte yellow gold yolk. This in turn opens to reveal a multicolored gold hen that also opens.

Empress Maria was so delighted by the gift that Alexander appointed Faberge a "goldsmith by special appointment to the Imperial Crown" and commissioned another egg the next year. After that Peter Carl Faberge was apparently given complete freedom for future Imperial Easter Eggs, and their designs become more elaborate. It is believed that even the Tsar didn't know what form they would take: the only requirement was that each contain a surprise.

Canals of St. Petersburg

After visiting the museum, board a canal boat for an hour long ride along the rivers and canals of St. Petersburg to view more of the city's sites from the water. St. Petersburg was built around a network of canals and rivers, which contribute a lot to the great atmosphere of this "Venice of the North".

The canal boat ride ends at a pier where you will re-board the coach for the transfer back to the ship.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, with a few steps to negotiate. This tour is suitable for guests who utilise a wheelchair who can get on and off the coach and boat with little assistance. Canal boat and canal boat pier are not wheelchair accessible. Guests are encouraged to wear layered clothing and flat, comfortable shoes. Photo and video are not allowed in the Faberge Museum. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. The order of sites visited may vary. The route of the boat ride may vary due to high water level and bridge repair works. In case of stormy weather, the boat ride may be cancelled

During the 300 years of its existence St. Petersburg has acquired so much historical importance and witnessed so many turning events that there inevitably appeared a countless number of legends and mysterious stories. During this unique tour ou will learn many interesting facts, rumors, legends and tales about tsars and nobles, writers and musicians, squares and streets, palaces and mansions.

Yusupov Palace

Depart the pier for a 30-minute transfer via coach to the Yusupov Palace associated with one of the most controversial personalities in the Russian history - Grigory Rasputin, and his dramatic assassination.

The Yusupov Palace on the Moika Embankment is an outstanding historic and architectural monument of the late 18th - early 20th centuries. It presents a fine example of the Russian classicism, full of quiet dignity and laconic chic, and preserves the memory of its noble owners, the Yusupov Princes whose wealth could be compared only to that of the Romanovs.

The Yusupovs were great collectors of art, and their collection was known well beyond Russia. After the revolution most of the collection was moved to the Hermitage, though traces of the incredible wealth that once kept this palace pulsating with life still remain: sitting rooms sumptuously decorated in various architectural styles, intricate chandeliers and candelabras, sculptures and paintings. Wandering around the halls of the Yusupov Palace that preserve a sense of the past, you will learn about the refined luxury, exquisite taste, and splendor of the high life, family happiness and human tragedies of the past.

You will be amazed by the sumptuously decorated Yusupov's private theater that looks like a cozy version of the Mariinsky. Composers Franz Liszt and Alexander Dargomyzhsky, opera singer Feodor Chaliapin and ballerina Anna Pavlova performed at concerts in this home theatre, a genuine gem of the Palace.

Not only is the Palace a remarkable architectural monument, but it is also one of the most mysterious places in the city, full of occult memories, a historical site, tied to the fall of Imperial Russia. It was here that Grigory Rasputin, a peasant who had gained control over the tsar's family through his alleged supernatural powers, was murdered by the young prince Felix Yusupov and his associates on the night of December 16-17, 1916, and his death was as mysterious as his life. Your guide will escort you to the cellar, where 'Madame Tussauds' style wax figures reconstitute the whole event for you.

Canal Boat Ride

Following the visit to Yusupov Palace embark a boat for a short cruise along the canals of St. Petersburg that is often called "Venice of the North". Enjoy the beautiful palaces, mansions and churches from a totally different perspective.

Spilled Blood Cathedral

Your next stop is the stunning Spilled Blood Cathedral - certainly one of the symbols of St. Petersburg. This marvelous Russian-style multicolored, onion-domed church was built on the spot where Emperor Alexander II was assassinated on March 1, 1881. Emperor Alexander III decided to build a church at the spot where his father was mortally wounded. Constructed in 1883-1907, the church is designed in the spirit of sixteenth- and seventeenth century Russian architecture, inspired particularly by St. Basil Cathedral on the Red Square in Moscow.

The church stands out for its complicated and picturesque outline, as well as rich and multicolored decoration. Both the interior and exterior of the church is decorated with incredibly detailed 7000 square meters of mosaics, designed and created in Frolovs' workshop to the originals by the most prominent Russian artists of the day: Vasnetsov, Nesterov, Riabushkin and Vrubel. These mosaics are far from being ordinary; their surface was left unpolished, so that they reflect sunlight, which impresses visitors to present day. Inside the cathedral the very spot of the assassination is marked with a marble Shatrovy Cen, a monument to Alexander.

The facades are faced with glazed shaped brick and ceramic tiles as well as decorated with mosaic panels. In the decor of interiors Italian marbles and Russian semiprecious stones are used. Five cupolas of the church, some 1000 square meters in area are covered with jewelry enamel. The belfry is decorated with mosaic coats-of-arms of cities and regions of the Russian empire. The church is interesting as a kind of an architectural accent in classical surroundings.

Please note: Tour involves moderate walking with stairs to negotiate and is not suitable for guests who use a wheelchair. We suggest guests dress in seasonal attire and wear flat, walking shoes. In the event of inclement weather, the boat ride may be substituted with a coach transfer. Order of sites visited may vary.

Find your own treasures and memories to take back home during this half-day shopping and browsing opportunity. This program will allow you some free time in the city at your leisure.

Your tour will begin with a short drive to the Square of Arts dominated by the famous monument to Alexander Pushkin. Every single building facing the square is either a theater or a museum. Here you will find the world-known Russian Museum, the Museum of Ethnography, Mikhailovsky Theater of Opera and Ballet and the State Philharmonic Society. Here the coach will be waiting for you while you enjoy time at leisure walking and shopping along the city's main street - Nevsky Prospect.

Nevsky Prospect, certainly one of the best-known streets in Russia. Cutting right through the St. Petersburg historical center, it runs from the Admiralty to the Moscow Railway Station and then, making a slight curve, to the Alexander Nevsky Monastery. Since the 18^th century it has been the very center of the bustling, rapidly growing city. The street is lined with some of St. Petersburg's most impressive buildings, including beautiful palaces, theaters and churches. You will be passing the beautiful Cathedral of Our Lady of Kazan, the Catholic Church of St. Catherine, and view the fairytale Spilled Blood Cathedral. Nevsky is also the main shopping area for the citizens and guests of St. Petersburg. Here you will find such large shopping centers as Gostiny Dvor, Passage and Grand Palace Boutique Gallery.

The guide will assist and direct you to the type of treasure you are seeking.

After approximately 2,5 hours of free time in the city center with your guide close at hand, re-join the coach for the 20-minute drive back to the pier.

Please note: This is not a guided tour, but a programme that will allow you to have some free time in the city-centre under the supervision of a licensed guide. An individual visa is not required for this programme. This programme involves minimal to moderate walking and is suitable for guests with limited mobility and for those who use a wheelchair. Guests must be able to embark and disembark the coach with minimal assistance. We recommend guests dress in seasonal attire and wear flat walking shoes. Major credit cards and Rubles are accepted in the main stores.

Take a tour to Peterhof - the town of palaces, fountains and gardens, the most brilliant of all the former summer residences of the Russian tsars conceived by Peter the Great to rival Versailles.

The grounds of Peterhof include the Upper and Lower Park and a number of delightful little palaces and pavilions. Crowning the hill is Peter's Grand Palace. It has a commanding view over the Lower Park and the Gulf beyond.

Peterhof Grand Palace

Upon arrival to Peterhof you will proceed to the Upper Park designed as a French formal garden and enter the Grand Palace for an hour-long tour. The original palace was built for Peter the Great in 1714-25 and in 1745-55 it was remodeled to its present baroque glory by Bartolomeo Rastrelli, the favorite architect of Empress Elizabeth. Despite all the damage done to the Grand Palace during WWII, it has been carefully restored and is truly breathtaking.

Enjoy the palace's startling interiors: the Gala Staircase, the Dancing Hall, the Audience Hall and a suite of drawing rooms to Rastrelli's design. You will certainly be impressed by the classical decoration of architect Felton such as the Chesma Hall, the opulent Throne room, the White Dining Room with its unique Wedgwood dinner service. Peter's Oak Study is one of the few rooms to have survived unaltered from the days of Peter the Great. Some of the oak panels are originals by Nicolas Pineau.

Lower Gardens Tour

Descend into the Lower Gardens, a 300-acre fountain park with a number of pavilions and palaces overlooking the Gulf of Finland. The park comprises about 150 fountains including four cascades decorated with gilded statues of mythological characters. Enjoy a stop at the Grand Cascade, the largest fountain ensemble in the world that is justly considered the chief delight of the grounds. A great variety of fountains concentrated in the Lower Park includes the Checker Board Hill Cascade, Golden Hill Cascade, Lion's Cascade, Adam and Eva fountains, the Sun fountain, the Pyramid and lots of others.

Following an hour-long tour of the grounds, board a comfortable hydrofoil and commence on a 30-minute return ride to St. Petersburg.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking over flat and gravel surfaces, with numerous stairs to negotiate and no elevators. This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility and guests who use a wheelchair. Hydrofoil and hydrofoil pier are not wheelchair accessible. Guests are encouraged to wear layered clothing and flat, comfortable shoes. Guests are provided with special slipcovers to wear over their shoes inside the Grand Palace. Photo and video are not allowed in the Peterhof Grand Palace. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. The tour sequence may vary. The hydrofoil may not be exclusive to Silversea guests. A minimum number of guests is required to operate this program.

Take a tour to Peterhof - the town of palaces, fountains and gardens, the most brilliant of all the former summer residences of the Russian tsars conceived by Peter the Great to rival Versailles.

The grounds of Peterhof include the Upper and Lower Park and a number of delightful little palaces and pavilions. Crowning the hill is Peter's Grand Palace. It has a commanding view over the Lower Park and the Gulf beyond.

Peterhof Grand Palace

Upon arrival to Peterhof you will proceed to the Upper Park designed as a French formal garden and enter the Grand Palace for an hour-long tour. The original palace was built for Peter the Great in 1714-25 and in 1745-55 it was remodeled to its present baroque glory by Bartolomeo Rastrelli, the favorite architect of Empress Elizabeth. Despite all the damage done to the Grand Palace during WWII, it has been carefully restored and is truly breathtaking.

Enjoy the palace's startling interiors: the Gala Staircase, the Dancing Hall, the Audience Hall and a suite of drawing rooms to Rastrelli's design. You will certainly be impressed by the classical decoration of architect Felton such as the Chesma Hall, the opulent Throne room, the White Dining Room with its unique Wedgwood dinner service. Peter's Oak Study is one of the few rooms to have survived unaltered from the days of Peter the Great. Some of the oak panels are originals by Nicolas Pineau.

Lower Gardens Tour

Descend into the Lower Gardens, a 300-acre fountain park with a number of pavilions and palaces overlooking the Gulf of Finland. The park comprises about 150 fountains including four cascades decorated with gilded statues of mythological characters. Enjoy a stop at the Grand Cascade, the largest fountain ensemble in the world that is justly considered the chief delight of the grounds. A great variety of fountains concentrated in the Lower Park includes the Checker Board Hill Cascade, Golden Hill Cascade, Lion's Cascade, Adam and Eva fountains, the Sun fountain, the Pyramid and lots of others.

Following an hour-long tour of the grounds, board a comfortable hydrofoil and commence on a 30-minute return ride to St. Petersburg.

Please note: Tour is Guided in German, minimum amount of guests required to operate. It involves an extensive amount of walking over flat and gravel surfaces, with numerous stairs to negotiate and no elevators. This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility and guests who use a wheelchair. Hydrofoil and hydrofoil pier are not wheelchair accessible. Guests are encouraged to wear layered clothing and flat, comfortable shoes. Guests are provided with special slipcovers to wear over their shoes inside the Grand Palace. Photo and video are not allowed in the Peterhof Grand Palace. Due to the popularity of this venue, expect dense crowds, lines and a possibility of delays. The tour sequence may vary. The hydrofoil may not be exclusive to Silversea guests.