When your cruise ship docks in St Petersburg, set off to discover the city, once home to 19th-century Russian novelist Fyodor Dostoevsky. Widely considered one of Russia’s most influential writers, Dostoevsky set his novel Crime and Punishment in St Petersburg, and the city’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed heart offers great insights into this famous work.
Meet your private guide at St Petersburg port in the morning, and hop into your air-conditioned minivan to begin your tour. Travel into the city center and retrace the steps of popular characters such as Rask?lnikov, Kater?na and Prask?vya. See the building that served as a model for Rask?lnikov’s home, explore the streets and bridges where he walked and discover the house of the pawnbroker he killed.
Continue on with your private guide the Dostoevsky Museum, located in the writer’s former home. During your 1-hour guided visit, admire reconstructions of Dostoevsky’s home based on memories from his wife and friends, and gain insight into the writer’s interests and lifestyle.
After lunch (own expense), head to a Russian vodka museum and follow your guide on a tour to learn of the country’s drinking traditions. Vodka has been a Russian staple for centuries and still plays a large part in the country’s culture. Learn about the history of vodka and admire a collection of more than 200 different kinds. Afterward, enjoy a tasting session of three different vodkas and discover the various scents and flavors at play in your glass.
After approximately six hours exploring St Petersburg with your private guide, travel back to the port to conclude your tour.
Worry-free Shore Excursion: We will ensure your timely return to the St Petersburg port for this activity. In the rare event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of-call. If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.
