Welcome to Moscow, the bustling capital of Russia. Upon arrival, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to rest or enjoy a first walk through the city.

Start the day with a panoramic drive through Moscow, passing major sights such as the Cathedral of Christ the Savior (viewed from outside) and the Novodevichy Convent and cemetery (exterior view), followed by a stop near Moscow State University for impressive citywide vistas. Afterwards, continue on foot through the historic center, where you will visit the interior of St. Basil’s Cathedral, see Lenin’s Mausoleum beside the Kremlin Wall, and stroll through the legendary GUM department store, one of Russia’s most celebrated shopping arcades.

This morning, explore the Kremlin, once the seat of the Tsars, and visit the Armoury Museum, famous for its treasures including crowns, carriages and Fabergé eggs. In the afternoon, discover Moscow’s ornate metro stations, known as underground palaces. Later, transfer to the railway station for the high-speed Sapsan train (approx. 4 hours). Upon arrival in St. Petersburg, transfer to your hotel and check in.

Get a sense of St. Petersburg and its iconic landmarks on today’s guided tour. Admire the historic Peter and Paul Fortress, the majestic St. Isaac’s Cathedral, and the ornate Church of the Savior on Blood. Pause to view the legendary cruiser Aurora, whose cannon fire marked the start of the October Revolution. All visits are exterior only, offering a perfect introduction to the city and its architectural treasures.

This morning, visit the magnificent Hermitage Museum, home to one of the world’s greatest art collections. In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight to Murmansk. Upon arrival, transfer to your 4* hotel. After dark, set out on your first Northern Lights excursion (weather dependent). Overnight in Murmansk.

Today’s journey takes you to Teriberka, a remote village on the Barents Sea. Enjoy spectacular Arctic scenery and visit sites such as the wind park, ship cemetery, “Dragon Eggs” beach and the dramatic coastline. Free time for lunch at a local restaurant (own expense). Return to Murmansk in the evening. Overnight in Murmansk.

After breakfast, explore a recreated Sami village and immerse yourself in the traditions and lifestyle of this Indigenous Arctic people. Encounter reindeer, hear captivating folklore stories, take part in traditional Sami games, and, in winter, enjoy a thrilling reindeer sleigh ride. A hearty lunch featuring traditional soup and pancakes is included. In the afternoon, transfer to the distinctive “Lapland Village” glamping site, where you will spend the night in a comfortable cupola lodge under the magical Arctic sky.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure flight. End of tour.