The Golden Ring: A Journey through the Ages from St. Petersburg

Breakfast.

Uglich is one of the oldest cities in the Upper Volga region, as if inscribed in the bend of the Volga, where the river makes its famous turn. It was this place, called Ugilets or Uglich since ancient times, that became the cradle of the appanage principality, which played an important role in the history of Russia.

You will learn how this city was born, how it grew and developed, becoming the center of princely power. The focus is on the Uglich Kremlin, an ensemble that is like a lively monument to the era of the golden age of Russian architecture.

Its walls, towers and domes are not just stone and wood, but keepers of historical destinies and legends.

A special place in the tour is occupied by the Church of St. Demetrius‑A church erected on the site of the tragic death of the last representative of the Rurik dynasty, Tsarevich Dmitry Uglichsky.

This majestic temple with graceful forms and a special spiritual atmosphere serves not only as a monument to a bygone era, but also as a place of memory where history comes to life in every stone. By visiting it, you will feel the connection of the times and touch one of the most dramatic pages of Russian history.

Departure to the village of Martynovo.

Visit to the ethnographic museum of Katskarei with lunch.

This place is home to a unique ethnic group of Katskari, who carefully preserve their dialect and traditions. The museum is located in an old 19th-century house and introduces visitors to the Katskar lifestyle, customs and beliefs.

Guests have the opportunity to explore subjects related to agriculture and household life, learn more about the Katskar dialect, and enjoy a meal from a Russian oven.

Transfer to Myshkin.

An exciting sightseeing tour of Myshkin: you will walk along the Volga Embankment and the Victory Memorial, visit the estate of the millionaire merchant T. V. Chistov.

The program also includes unique museums.:

• the world's only "Mouse Museum" with a 13,000 collection;
• Museum of Small-scale Peasant Architecture;
• Museum of technology "Myshkinsky Samohod";
• The Russian Felt Boots Museum;
• the museum of "living" crafts, where craftsmen will demonstrate pottery and blacksmithing.

Return to the hotel in Uglich.

Dinner (extra charge).

Breakfast.

Transfer to Yaroslavl.

You will walk through the streets where the monuments of the Golden Age of Russian architecture have been preserved.

The Spaso-Preobrazhensky Monastery is one of the most important places in the city. It was here that the Minin and Pozharsky militia was formed in 1611, an event that changed the course of history. Its bell tower and walls seem to preserve the echo of those times.

The Assumption Cathedral impresses with its harmony and grandeur. Its golden domes and austere forms are a symbol of Yaroslavl spirituality and architectural taste. You will learn how the cathedral is connected with important historical events and how it reflects the religious culture of the region.

The Church of Elijah the Prophet, one of the most ancient and revered in the city, is located on the banks of the Volga River. Its architecture and location create a special atmosphere, and the guide will tell you about its role in the life of the city and about the traditions associated with this temple.

You will go to Strelka, a picturesque place where the Kotorosl and Volga rivers converge. Here you can enjoy the views, stroll along the shores and feel the spirit of Yaroslavl nature.

The arrow is not just a geographical point, but a symbol of the city, a meeting place for historical and cultural lines. Our guide will share with you the most interesting facts about Yaroslavl.

Lunch (extra charge).

Departure to Kostroma.

We will have an excursion to the northernmost city on the Golden Ring, Kostroma. It is an amazingly cozy, quiet and peaceful city.

Here you can take a break from the frenzied rhythm of big cities, admire the absolutely round "frying pan", the so-called central square of Kostroma, actually Susaninskaya. Thanks to the immortal feat of this peasant from the village of Domnino, the first tsar of the Romanov dynasty, Mikhail, was able to ascend the throne.

Riding on the bus over the bridge over the Kostroma River, you can enjoy a stunning view of the Ipatievsky Monastery. This is the heart and soul of Kostroma, the textbook cradle of the house of Romanov, an object of cultural heritage of Russia.

The monastery stands on the gentle bank of the Kostroma River, reflecting its ancient walls, squat towers and golden domes of the cathedral in the quiet course of its waters.

Another interesting place in Kostroma is the Cheese Museum, where you can learn a lot about cheese making. The museum exhibits various types of cheeses, as well as equipment for their production. You will have a unique opportunity not only to learn about the production process, but also to taste different types of cheeses (for an additional fee).

Accommodation at the hotel.

Dinner (extra charge).

Breakfast.

Transfer to Ples.

We invite you to escape from the daily hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of charming Ples, starting with a visit to the majestic Resurrection Church of the 19th century, which preserves the spirit of bygone eras.

Then we will climb the Cathedral Mountain, towering 54 meters above the Volga River, offering a breathtaking view of the river section, which is almost 10 kilometers long.

You will learn about the ancient Ples fortress, which once controlled some of the richest trade routes in Eurasia.

Our guide will tell you about the mysterious town of Chuvil, the rapids of the Ples and the legend of the sacrificial bear, laid in the foundation of the fortress of the XV century.

At the place where you can see the Volga River, you can recall the scenes from the famous movie "Cruel Romance", which were filmed here.

You will have the opportunity to enjoy your free time by strolling along the picturesque embankment, where every step opens up new views of the majestic Volga River.

Don't miss the chance to take a look at the cozy "Fish Corner" and taste the famous fish pies, which will become a real gastronomic discovery. On a hot day, refresh yourself on the beach by diving into the cool waters of the Volga River.

For those who prefer active recreation, we suggest replacing the walk with an exciting boat tour, where you can enjoy panoramic views and learn more about the rich history of this amazing region (for an additional fee).

Lunch (extra charge).

Transfer to Suzdal.

You will be enchanted by this fabulous city of Suzdal. You will learn the secrets of its monasteries, streets and courtyards, and hear amazing stories.

Get to know Vladimir Krasnoe Solnyshko, learn about Suzdal's connections with the Kiev Pechersk Lavra and Veliky Novgorod, see the cathedrals of Ascension, Ordained and Spaso-Prebrazhensky, admire the beauty of their ancient interiors.

You will uncover the secrets of the Soviet era, visit the filming locations of famous films, admire the picturesque views of the city from the observation decks.

Tasting of Suzdal mead (for an additional fee).

We invite you to a unique tasting where you can taste 10 types of mead. You will be immersed in the atmosphere of antiquity and traditions.

Sagittarius will show you the way to the honey cellar, and a hospitable hostess will meet you at the entrance. She will invite you to an oak table and tell you old legends.

Then the most interesting part will begin – the mead tasting! You will be able to appreciate the variety of flavors and aromas of this traditional drink. And for a snack you will be offered baked apples and soaked mountain ash.

Free time in the city center.

Departure to Vladimir.

Accommodation at the hotel.

Late dinner (extra charge).

Breakfast.

Let's visit Baba Yaga in the fabulous souvenir market.

You will take part in a master class where you will be able to immerse yourself in the world of ancient mysteries and magic. Meeting with the legendary Baba Yaga will reveal the veil of her mysterious story.

Under the guidance of this wise mentor, you will create your own "rejuvenating potion" – a unique tea set filled with wonderful aromas. Enjoy the atmosphere of fun and good-naturedness in the company of this colorful woman, and you can also purchase various memorable gifts.

Vladimir city tour.

The walk will start from the Golden Gate, a masterpiece of Russian fortification, past the Water Tower (now the Old Vladimir Museum) along the original Georgievskaya Street, which used to be the heart of the New City, where the court of Prince Yuri Dolgoruky was located in the 12th century.

Along the way, you will meet many interesting characters: a scientist cat, an artist, a sculpture of a Vladimir Firefighter with an operating water pump mechanism of the 19th century, a scamp and a detective.

You will see the symbol of the old city – the monument to Vladimir Cherry and find out what it was famous for.

Two observation decks are equipped especially for tourists on the street, offering a beautiful view of the banks of the Klyazma and the magnificent Assumption Cathedral.

Next to the first city pharmacy of the XVIII century, there is a monument to a pharmacist, according to legend, you need to rub his nose and bald head for good health. On Cathedral Square, you will admire the Assumption Cathedral, a unique monument of Vladimir–Suzdal architecture with frescoes by Andrei Rublev, and the Dmitrievsky Cathedral, a magnificent example of ancient Russian sculpture and white stone carvings.

Lunch (extra charge).

Departure to Bogolyubovo.

Bogolyubovo is an amazing place in its beauty and originality, where the authentic spirit of ancient Russia is preserved. Built of white stone in the twelfth century, Bogolyubovo served as a residence for Yuri Dolgoruky's son, Prince Andrei Bogolyubsky.

Our guides will tell you about his bright personality and grandiose achievements – you will learn how he managed to unite disparate appanage principalities, create the foundations of monarchical rule and influence the future. The Russian state.

In addition, you will certainly see the amazing Church of the Intercession on the Nerl, a symbol of the heyday of the Vladimir–Suzdal Principality during the time of Andrei Bogolyubsky.

Another symbol of Bogolyubov is the Holy Bogolyubsky Monastery. You can stroll through his neat possessions, explore the transitional tower of the Andrei Bogolyubsky palace complex, as well as the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Virgin.

Visit the Bogolyubskaya Cathedral of the Mother of God in 1866 and see there a miraculous copy of the icon of the twelfth century, consecrated by St. Theophan the Recluse.

Return to the hotel in Vladimir.

Dinner (extra charge).

Breakfast.

Departure to Sergiev Posad.

Sergiev Posad is the only city of the Golden Ring in the Moscow region. A monastery has been standing here for over 700 years (since the 18th century, the lavra), attracting the attention of worshippers, pilgrims, historians, and now, of course, tourists.

The guidebooks call it the Russian Vatican, and this is not accidental, because the Holy Trinity Monastery is the most important in our country.

The Patriarch's residence, the Moscow Theological Academy, and the Seminary are located here. Architects have been rebuilding it for centuries so that now we can feel special joy and pride for our ancestors.

It doesn't matter what religion the guest belongs to, it's enough just to stand on the square and get water from the holy spring of St. Sergius of Radonezh and your soul feels better.

Lunch (extra charge).

Departure to St. Petersburg with technical stops (unaccompanied by a guide).

Return approximately before 00:00, depending on the traffic situation.