Highlights of St Petersburg

Founded by Peter the Great in 1703, elegant St Petersburg was the capital of Imperial Russia from the early 18th century until 1918. These days, the seat of government has moved to Moscow, but this refined northern city retains its crown as Russia's cultural capital. Art aficionados and museum buffs will delight in its varied offerings and its theatres host world-class opera and ballet performances. Let's kick off the sightseeing where the city itself began: the Peter and Paul Fortress. This great military fortress, located on Zayachy Island, never saw armed conflict but since then has been a political prison and scientific research centre. Your English-speaking guide will then show you inside the magnificent St Isaac's Cathedral. Its gilded dome glitters in the sunshine and from the top of the 262 steps that lead to it, you'll be rewarded with splendid views across the city. Descend for the biggest treat of all. Occupying Peter the Great's Winter Palace, the Hermitage houses one of the world's largest collections of art. An estimated three million pieces represent every great artist from da Vinci to Picasso. We can arrange a private backstage tour of the world famous Mariinsky Theatre during the day.

Today, you'll continue to explore this beautiful city in the company of your English-speaking guide. On today's menu is a trip out to the suburbs to visit one of the great Imperial palaces. Dependent on the season, you might visit Pushkin, where you'll find the opulent Catherine Palace and the sprawling grounds of Alexander Park. Alternatively, pay a visit to Peterhof, to explore Peter the Great's Grand Palace and its park. Return to the city to scope out Yusupov Palace. It was here in 1916 that noblemen assassinated the self-proclaimed holy man and royal confidante Rasputin, concerned about his influence over Tsar Nicholas II. Tonight, make the most of St Petersburg's reputation for the arts with a ticket for a ballet or opera performance.