The Golden domes of Russia. Golden Ring City Tour

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Enjoy the architecture of ancient Russia, walk through historical sites and get acquainted with the most wonderful cities of the Golden Ring.

Majestic cathedrals and temples, the Rostov and Suzdal Kremlins, the ancient monastery in Bogolyubovo and other fascinating excursions to significant places in several regions of Central Russia are waiting for you.

Travel itinerary: Sergiev Posad — Pereslavl-Zalessky — Rostov Veliky — Yaroslavl — Kostroma — Ivanovo — Suzdal — Kideksha — Bogolyubovo — Vladimir.

Location

Moscow

Sightseeing tours

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Weekdays: 8am - 8pm
Weekends: 8am - 7pm (GMT +3)

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Tour highlights

The Pearl of Orthodox shrines

Visit the Trinity-Sergius Lavra, a monastery with a centuries—old history, the architectural ensemble of which is under UNESCO protection

Masterpieces of white stone architecture

Admire the beauty of ancient temples and monuments of military engineering art in the center of Vladimir

The cradle of the Romanov Dynasty

You will visit the Ipatievsky Monastery in Kostroma, where Mikhail Fedorovich Romanov hid from the disgrace of Godunov

Itinerary

Day 1 - Departure from Moscow. Sergiev Posad, Pereslavl-Zalessky, Rostov the Great
07:45 Gathering of the group in Moscow: VDNKh metro station, parking lot to the right of the Kosmos Hotel.
08:00 Departure to Sergiev Posad.
Excursion to the Trinity-Sergius Lavra. The Trinity-Sergius Lavra is the pearl of Russia's Orthodox shrines with a centuries—old history. The architectural ensemble of the Trinity-Sergius Lavra is under UNESCO protection.
The Trinity Cathedral (exterior) is the main cathedral church and the oldest surviving structure of the Trinity Monastery, the first stone building of the Lavra. The main shrine of the cathedral is the relics of St. Sergius of Radonezh.
The Assumption Cathedral (interior) is the architectural center of the Trinity-Sergius Lavra. It is inferior in seniority to the famous Trinity Cathedral, but nevertheless, with its location and strict grandeur, it heads the Lavra group of buildings.
Refectory and Dukhovskoy temples (interior).
Transfer to Pereslavl-Zalessky.
Today, Pereslavl is a charming city on the shores of the fabulous Pleshcheyev Lake, with beautiful panoramas and mesmerizing views.
Translated from Old Russian, Pereslavl means "who took over the glory", because the city was founded by the founder of Moscow, Prince Yuri Dolgoruky in 1152.
Guided tour of Pereslavl, photo stop on Red Square.
The magnificent 12th-century Transfiguration Cathedral is located on the square, the only one of the first five white—stone churches in Northeastern Russia that has come down to us almost completely intact.
Many Pereslavl princes were baptized in the cathedral, including Alexander Nevsky, who was born in Pereslavl in 1221.
Lunch at a cafe in the city.
Departure to Rostov Veliky.
Rostov is not called Great for nothing, because its mentions date back to 862 in the chronicles.
The serene Lake Nero, strict and elegant monasteries, quiet streets and the majestic Kremlin help to break away from the hustle and bustle and touch the formation of Russia and Orthodoxy, to turn over the pages of chronicles and history textbooks live.
Visit to the Rostov Kremlin.
Surrounded by powerful walls with towers, it looks like the Kremlin, an ancient Russian princely fortress, but in reality it has long been the Bishop's Court, the residence of Rostov bishops and metropolitans.
The Kremlin is decorated with the Assumption Cathedral (XVI century) with a unique belfry, on which a set of 15 bells has been completely preserved, the Bishop's Courtyard, and Cathedral Square.
Next, you can choose one of the program options that suits you.
Option 1. Free time.
A great opportunity to get acquainted with the richest and most diverse collection of the Rostov Kremlin museums in free mode (for an additional fee).
Option 2. Visit the Honey Factory in Rostov Veliky with the program "History and taste of ancient Russian drinks".
In the program:
immersion in the traditions of Russian drinking culture;
getting to know the ancient exhibits;
tasting of honey drinks (18+) according to ancient recipes (original and traditional honey drinks, farm cheeses, treats).
Attention! A non-alcoholic tasting set is available for children and adults (on request).
Accommodation at the hotel "Susanin Park Hotel 3*" Kostroma (reserve hotels: Yaroslavskoye Podvorye 3*, YaRotel Center 3*, Kosmos 4* – Yaroslavl; Volga 4*, Snegurochka 3* - Kostroma).
Dinner at the hotel restaurant.

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Day 2 - Yaroslavl and Kostroma
08:00 Breakfast in the hotel restaurant.
Departure to Yaroslavl.
Yaroslavl city tour program.
You will see the arrow of the Volga and Kotorosli rivers, the Assumption Cathedral, walk along the Volga embankment reconstructed for the 1000th anniversary of the city, and explore the unique architectural ensemble of the central part of Yaroslavl, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
A visit to the Spaso-Preobrazhensky Monastery is the main city attraction. Due to the fortified walls, it is called the Kremlin.
The main cathedral of the monastery has preserved the original paintings, it is the oldest extant temple in Yaroslavl. A handwritten list of the masterpiece of ancient Russian literature "The Word about Igor's Regiment" was discovered here.
Optional for an additional fee:
Inspection of the Church of Elijah the Prophet (interior in summer, exterior in winter) — an outstanding architectural monument of the Yaroslavl school of architecture.
Return to Kostroma.
Lunch at a cafe in the city.
Sightseeing tour of Kostroma, the most beautiful city on the Volga, one of the pearls of the Golden Ring.

The ancient merchant city, which has preserved to this day the original appearance of the architectural ensemble of the XVIII century, will lift the veil of mystery of its unique history.
In the center there are:
The fire tower of the 19th century is an outstanding monument of classicism;
The guardhouse building;
a beautifully preserved ensemble of Shopping malls, which are still in service.
Kostroma is the cradle of the Romanov dynasty.
It was in the Ipatievsky monastery in Kostroma that Mikhail Fedorovich Romanov hid from Godunov's disgrace. Ipatievsky Monastery is the main symbol of Kostroma.
An inspection of the territory of the recreated Kostroma Kremlin, where the miraculous icon of the Fedorovskaya Mother of God is kept in the Epiphany Cathedral.
It was written around 1239 and is famous for its great miracles and healings.
This is the oldest work of Kostroma icon painting.
The icon has long been revered as the defender of the city and the guardian of the Romanov family.
Return to the hotel.
Dinner at the hotel restaurant.

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Day 3 - Ivanovo and Suzdal
07:00 Breakfast in the hotel restaurant.
Departure to Suzdal.
Travel sightseeing tour to Ivanovo.
The city has been known for textile production since the 17th century. Since then, the city has been called the calico region, as well as the textile capital of Russia and, of course, the city of brides.
It is the youngest city in the Golden Ring.
Sightseeing tour of Suzdal, a museum city with about 200 historical monuments, many of which have UNESCO World Heritage status. The city is called "the glorious city of heaven" and "the cradle of the Golden Ring."
An inspection of the architectural ensemble of the Suzdal Kremlin.
The Suzdal Kremlin is the oldest building in the city, which has absorbed its entire history since Vladimir Monomakh.
According to archaeologists, the Kremlin in Suzdal was built as early as the 10th century, despite this, all its main buildings have survived to this day, with the exception of perhaps protective walls and towers.
Optional for an additional fee:
Spaso-Efimiev Monastery with a concert of bells. Visit to the Transfiguration Cathedral. Russian grave of Prince Dmitry Mikhailovich Pozharsky, an outstanding Russian commander, is located in the monastery.
The Museum of Wooden Architecture with unique buildings of the 17th and 19th centuries. The museum is built in the form of a rural street with temples, apartment buildings, mills, barns and other buildings transported from different villages and villages of the Vladimir region.
Lunch at a cafe in the city.
Accommodation at the Knyazhy Dvor 3* hotel in Suzdal (reserve hotels: SCC "Suzdal 3*" — Suzdal, "Amaks Golden Ring 3*", "Russian village 3*" — Vladimir).
Free time.
Dinner at the hotel restaurant.
Attention! The continuation of the excursion program is possible as part of another group.

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Day 4 - Kideksha
08:00 Breakfast in the hotel restaurant.
Free time.
Lunch at a cafe in the city.
Excursion to the village of Kideksha.
Inspection of the Boris and Gleb Church (external inspection), founded at the behest of the Suzdal Prince Yuri Dolgoruky in 1152. According to legend, it was here in 1015 that Princes Boris of Rostov and Gleb of Murom, later the first Russian saints, met on their way to Kiev. The church is one of the earliest white stone buildings in Russia.
Return to the hotel.
Free time.
Dinner at the hotel restaurant.
Day 5 - Bogolyubovo and Vladimir
08:00 Breakfast in the hotel restaurant.
Departure to Bogolyubovo village.
Bogolyubovo village was once an ancient Russian city founded in 1158 as the residence of Prince Andrey Bogolyubsky of Vladimir.
Today, one of the oldest Russian monasteries, Bogolyubsky Monastery, is located on its territory (architectural inspection).
The sights of Bogolyubovo village are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The structures were often rebuilt, but the earthen ramparts, moats and lower parts of the walls were partially preserved, as well as part of the legendary residence — the famous white stone tower with a spiral staircase.
Walk to the Church of the Intercession on the Nerl, a monument of white stone architecture of the XII century (external inspection).
The church was located practically on the river "strelka", forming the crossroads of the most important waterways.
According to the chronicle, the construction under Prince Andrew was carried out by "craftsmen from all lands." The unique "swan temple" has miraculously survived to this day.
Please note: the walk to the church will take place under favorable weather and natural conditions. Please bring comfortable shoes.
Departure to Vladimir.
Guided tour of Vladimir, the ancient capital of Northeastern Russia.
Sightseeing of the 12th century:
The Golden Gate (external inspection, under restoration) is a symbol of the greatness and power of Ancient Russia.
Dmitrievsky Cathedral (external inspection) is a monument of Vladimir-Suzdal architecture of the pre-Mongol period.
The Assumption Cathedral is a masterpiece of white stone architecture. It is a unique treasure trove of Russian church art. It preserves paintings of the XII-XIX centuries. The famous frescoes of the icon painter Andrei Rublev.
For an additional fee: The Museum of Crystal and Glass of the XVIII-XXI centuries or the exhibition "Old Vladimir" in a 4-storey tower in 1912. (tells about the city of the late 19th century – early 20th century).
Lunch at a cafe in the city.
Departure to Moscow.
21:00 Approximate time of arrival in Moscow (metro station "VDNKH").

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Difficulty

Suitable for everyone

Accommodation

Hotel

4 nights

Comfort

Upscale

The tour provides accommodation in hotels along the way in standard rooms, double occupancy.

Accommodation at the hotel "Susanin Park Hotel" 3* Kostroma (2 nights) and at the hotel "Knyazhy Dvor" 3* Suzdal (2 nights).

The cost of the tour for 1 person, depending on the meals, RUB.:

Breakfast only	No dinners: breakfasts and lunches	Full meals: 5 lunches + 4 breakfasts + 4 dinners
35 790	39 790	43 390

The surcharge for a single room is 7,750 rubles.

Discount on an extra bed (3 people in a room) – 1000 rub.

The surcharge for more comfortable accommodation is 17,250 rubles/person.

The hotels are indicated approximately, it is possible to replace them with similar ones, including hotels in other cities.

For arrivals 08-12.07.2026, 22-26.07.2026 On the third day, accommodation at the Amaks Golden Ring 3* hotel, Vladimir.

It is possible to change the price for some dates, please check the current information when booking.

The Susanin Park Hotel is located near Kostroma. Suitable for family holidays with children or with company. Gazebos and barbecue areas are located on the territory. The pride of the hotel is the Old Russian baths complex. Guests can enjoy a game of billiards, table tennis, or bike rides. The skating rink is flooded in winter. The journey to the city center by car will take no more than 30 minutes.

Rooms of various categories and capacities are available for accommodation. All rooms are decorated in pleasant colors. Each of them has free high-speed Internet access, a TV, a small refrigerator, and a telephone. The private bathroom is equipped with a standard set of sanitary facilities and hygiene supplies. Some rooms have a sauna.

A buffet breakfast is served every morning at the hotel. The hotel has an atmospheric restaurant serving Russian cuisine. Bierstadt is a restaurant with an interesting design, as well as a wide selection of European dishes and beers.

The journey to the city center by car will take no more than 30 minutes. The distance to the railway station is about eight kilometers, and the airport is 13 km away.

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Tour conditions

Group

From 1 to 50 tourists

Minimum age

6 years old

Duration

5 days 4 nights

Group meets at

Moscow

Included in price

hotel accommodation;
meals (according to the selected option);
guided tours according to the program (including museum tickets and accompanying guide services);
transportation service.

Paid extra

air and railway tickets to Moscow and back;
the surcharge for a single room is 7750 rubles.;
the choice of a seat on the bus is 2,450 rubles (to be booked when buying a tour);
the excursion package is 2500 rubles/person.;
honey factory in Rostov Veliky – 800 rubles.;
personal expenses.

It's important to know

The time of departure and arrival in Moscow is indicative and cannot be considered a mandatory item of the program.
The company reserves the right to make changes to the excursion program depending on objective circumstances while maintaining volume and quality. It is possible to replace some excursions with equivalent ones. And also to replace hotels of the same category or higher.
If the number of tourists in a group is less than 20 people, a minibus of a foreign tourist class can be provided.
The company does not arrange room check-in for your safety and comfort.
The seating on the bus is fixed. Seats on the bus are provided automatically 1 day before the start of the tour. In case of an emergency, the available places are determined by the guide. The "Place selection" service, the manager will fix the desired place for you in advance for an additional fee.
The time according to the tour program (especially the arrival time) is indicated approximately. There may be delays due to circumstances beyond the control of the Tour Operator (traffic jams, vehicle breakdowns, etc.), and therefore the arrival time of the bus at the final destination along the route may be extended by 2-3 hours.
When self-booking travel documents by Tourists for further travel to their destination (permanent residence), it is necessary to take into account the possible increase in tour time. Compensation for travel tickets (air, railway), in case of delay of vehicles within the tour for reasons beyond the control of the Tour Operator, is not made.

Dates and Prices

$494

17 – 21 Jun 5 days 4 nights

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$494

24 – 28 Jun 5 days 4 nights

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$494

1 – 5 Jul 5 days 4 nights

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8 – 12 Jul 5 days 4 nights

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$494

15 – 19 Jul 5 days 4 nights

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$494

22 – 26 Jul 5 days 4 nights

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$494

29 Jul – 2 Aug 5 days 4 nights

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$494

5 – 9 Aug 5 days 4 nights

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$494

12 – 16 Aug 5 days 4 nights

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$494

19 – 23 Aug 5 days 4 nights

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$494

26 – 30 Aug 5 days 4 nights

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$494

2 – 6 Sep 5 days 4 nights

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$494

9 – 13 Sep 5 days 4 nights

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$494

16 – 20 Sep 5 days 4 nights

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$494

23 – 27 Sep 5 days 4 nights

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$494

30 Sep – 4 Oct 5 days 4 nights

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$510

$480

7 – 11 Oct 5 days 4 nights

Tour option - The golden domes of Russia in winter. Golden Ring City Tour

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14 – 18 Oct 5 days 4 nights

Tour option - The golden domes of Russia in winter. Golden Ring City Tour

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21 – 25 Oct 5 days 4 nights

Tour option - The golden domes of Russia in winter. Golden Ring City Tour

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$480

28 Oct – 1 Nov 5 days 4 nights

Tour option - The golden domes of Russia in winter. Golden Ring City Tour

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$480

4 – 8 Nov 5 days 4 nights

Tour option - The golden domes of Russia in winter. Golden Ring City Tour

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$510

$480

11 – 15 Nov 5 days 4 nights

Tour option - The golden domes of Russia in winter. Golden Ring City Tour

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$510

$480

25 – 29 Nov 5 days 4 nights

Tour option - The golden domes of Russia in winter. Golden Ring City Tour

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$510

$480

9 – 13 Dec 5 days 4 nights

Tour option - The golden domes of Russia in winter. Golden Ring City Tour

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$510

$480

23 – 27 Dec 5 days 4 nights

Tour option - The golden domes of Russia in winter. Golden Ring City Tour

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Reviews Leave a review

T
Tatiana

about provider

14 May, 2026

Many thanks to “Big Country” for this wonderful tour. The entire trip was organized exceptionally well: the hotels, meals, and transportation were all excellent. But the real highlight of the journey was our tour guide, Denis!!! Honestly, without him the trip would not have been nearly as memorable. Visiting so many churches and historical sites without meaningful context would have quickly become monotonous. Most of the local guides simply rushed through the program with dry facts and dates, almost like a school lecture. Denis, however, made everything come alive. Even before we arrived at each destination, he was already sharing fascinating stories and background information on the bus, which helped us appreciate the places so much more once we got there. Not a single person was late for the bus in the mornings! Everyone was eager not to miss his stories!!! He has an incredible knowledge of the history and geography of the region, and he could make even the scenery outside the window interesting!!! Listening to him never felt tiring because he spoke with such enthusiasm and passion!!! For the last two days we had a different guide, and the contrast was huge - unfortunately, it just wasn’t engaging at all. To sum it up: excellent organization, comfortable travel conditions, and an outstanding guide like Denis made this trip truly special!!! I only wish there were more professionals like him.

Big Country Travel

Hello Tatiana, Thank you very much for your wonderful feedback! We’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed the trip and especially appreciated Denis’s work as your tour guide. We will be sure to pass your kind words on to him. We have also shared your comments regarding the local guides with our partners on the ground. We would be very happy to welcome you on another of our tours across Russia in the future!
I
Ivan

about provider

10 Apr, 2026

I really enjoyed the trip. I learned a lot more about my country and its history, and visited many historic cities and monasteries. It’s an experience I will remember for a long time. Everything along the route was well organized. Special thanks to our guide, Zhanna, who accompanied us throughout the trip!! She made everything so engaging and interesting. Wishing her all the best.
M
Marina

about provider

4 Mar, 2026

Everything was perfectly organized. From boarding the bus in Moscow to our return home. Every detail was handled smoothly, and there was never a moment of concern. A truly relaxing time. Thank you very much.