After a pickup from the Port of St Petersburg, travel with a private guide to Pushkin, the small town just outside of St Petersburg that’s known for the beautiful Tsarkoye Selo Parks and Catherine Palace. Head inside the stately palace to learn all about its past on a tour.

Built as a vacation home of Tsar Peter the Great’s second wife, Catherine I, the palace is steeped in Imperial history being the place from where Catherine ruled after her husband’s death. Much of its grandeur is owed to Catherine’s daughter Elizabeth, who made the palace her chief summer home.

Stroll around the Great Hall on a tour, marveling at its frescoes, and then gaze in awe as you step inside the Amber Room, a replica of the original. Bedecked with mirrors, gold, gilt and mosaics, the original room was plundered by the Nazis in the Second World War and later burned to the ground. Other highlights of the palace that you may see include the Grand Staircase — built from dazzling white marble — and the Portrait Hall.

Leave the palace and head into town for lunch (own expense). Then, travel back to St Petersburg for your visit to the incredible Hermitage. Known officially as the State Hermitage, the museum is home to a staggering collection of world-class art. Spread across four buildings with more than 120 rooms, the Hermitage is vast and a visit can be overwhelming. So, let your guide take away the hassle, introducing you to the museum’s highlights while explaining the art.

Admire the large collection of Italian Renaissance and French Impressionist paintings, and learn about works by European maestros such as Rubens, Rembrandt and Titian. The architecture of the museum is also impressive, with much of it designed by Francesco Rastrelli — one of the leading Imperial-era architects. Admire his genius while exploring some of the museum’s reception halls, such as the Malachite and Gold rooms.

Having explored the Hermitage, return to your minivan, and finally finish your day trip with a drop-off back at the port.

Worry-Free Shore Excursion:
We will ensure your timely return to the Port of St Petersburg 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.