3 Nights in Moscow in 5* hotels  MOSCOW Marriott Grand / Petr I or similar
4 Nights in St.Petersburg in 5* hotels   SAINT PETERSBURG Palace Bridge / Radisson Royal or similar

7 Breakfasts according to itinerary      
5 Lunches according to itinerary
Dinners at hotel (without guide  4 and transport service)

Transfers in and out

Tickets for the high-speed train “Sapsan”        
City tour of Moscow      
City tour of St.Petersburg 
Moscow Kremlin and its Cathedrals     
Guided tour of the Moscow metro   
Visit to the Peter and Paul Fortress       
Visit to the Hermitage museum
Half-day visits to Peterhof (Palace and Park)      
Entrance tickets to the mentioned places 

Good to Know:

Travel Between Cities:

High-Speed Train: Travel between St. Petersburg and Moscow on the Sapsan, Russia’s high-speed train, offering a fast and comfortable journey between the cities (approximately 4 hours).

Flight Option: For a quicker trip, domestic flights are also available (roughly 1 hour 30 minutes).

Best Time to Visit:

Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season, offering long daylight hours, particularly in St. Petersburg, where you can experience the famous “White Nights” phenomenon (when the sun barely sets).

Spring (May) and Fall (September-October): The weather is milder, and the cities are less crowded, making it ideal for a more relaxed sightseeing experience.

Winter (November to March): While cold, winter offers a magical experience with fewer tourists and the opportunity to experience the festive holiday spirit.

Language:

The official language in Russia is Russian, but in major tourist areas like St. Petersburg and Moscow, you’ll find that many people in the hospitality industry speak basic English. However, it’s useful to learn a few key phrases like "spasibo" (thank you) and "pozhaluysta" (please).

Currency:

The local currency is the Russian Ruble (RUB). Credit cards are widely accepted in most places, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases or in more remote areas.

Visas:

Most international travelers will require a tourist visa to visit Russia. It’s recommended to apply well in advance and ensure that you have all necessary documents, including an invitation letter from your tour provider or hotel.

Weather:

St. Petersburg: Has a temperate maritime climate, with cool winters and mild summers. Rain is frequent, so it's advisable to bring a light waterproof jacket or umbrella.

Moscow: Has a continental climate, with cold winters (often below freezing) and warm, sometimes hot, summers.

Local Etiquette:

Russians value politeness and formality. It’s common to greet with a handshake when meeting someone, and it’s polite to address people with their titles (e.g., Mr., Mrs.) unless invited to do otherwise.

In churches or religious sites, dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees. Women may be asked to cover their heads in Orthodox churches.

Health and Safety:

Russia is generally a safe country for tourists, though, like in any major city, be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places.

It’s recommended to drink bottled water rather than tap water in both St. Petersburg and Moscow.

Shopping:

In both cities, you can find a variety of Russian handicrafts, including matryoshka dolls, lacquered boxes, and folk art. The Arbat Street in Moscow and Nevsky Prospect in St. Petersburg are popular shopping areas for souvenirs.

Connectivity:

Free Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants in major tourist areas. For the best connectivity, consider purchasing a local SIM card for internet access during your stay.

This 8-day St. Petersburg to Moscow tour provides an incredible opportunity to delve into Russia’s rich cultural heritage, with ample time to explore both cities in depth. With its combination of history, art, and modern charm, this journey is sure to be a memorable and enriching experience.