Volga River

Two spectacular cities, St. Petersburg and Moscow, are showcased on Volga River cruises. These itineraries also venture into the Moscow Canal and other Russian waterways, like the Neva and Svir rivers.

In St. Petersburg, considered to be Russia's cultural capital, you'll visit the Hermitage museum, St. Isaac's Cathedral, Nevsky Prospekt and the Peter and Paul Fortress. Treasures to see in Moscow include sweeping Red Square, St. Basil's Cathedral with its candy-colored onion domes, and the crown jewels of the Armory Museum in the red-brick Kremlin.

Many cruises visit Kizhi Island, known for its unique collection of wooden structures, including a cathedral of 22 domes that was constructed without the use of a single nail. Uglich is one of the oldest towns in Russia, and here you'll see the Church of St. Dmitry on the Blood, built on the site where Ivan the Terrible's son was killed. Disembark in Yaroslavl to shop for handcrafted souvenirs and view the detailed frescoes and icons of the Church of St. Elijah the Prophet.

You'll gain a deeper understanding of Russia's culture and history, as guides in each destination share expert knowledge and point out significant sights. Often, a performance of Russian folkloric music is provided on board the ship. Itineraries typically include hotel stays in Moscow and St. Petersburg. Your hotel and riverboat accommodations, many meals and sightseeing excursions are covered in one rate.