Day 1: Vladimir, Bogolyubovo

Your private driver will pick you up from your hotel in Moscow and whisk you to the nearby city of Vladimir. After lunch in a local restaurant, you will visit the 12th century Dmitrovsky Cathedral, the Museum of Crystal and Varnished Miniatures, the village of Bogolyubovo, and the ancient Pokrova-na-Nerli Church. Afterwards you will be transferred to Suzdal for overnight stay at the local hotel. (D)

Dmitrovsky Cathedral
Built in the 12th century, the Dmitrovsky Cathedral stands on a hill above the city of Vladimir. The location was to remind people that God is above them, directing and helping them.

Zolotie Vorota of Vladimir
The Zolotie Vorota (Golden Gate) of Vladimir is the main attraction in the city. It was the final defense against intruders until the Mongols burned it down with the rest of Vladimir.

Bogolyubovo
Today, Bogolyubovo is a small village five miles outside of Vladimir on the river Nerli. It was once a place of major political power and the residence of tzar Andrew Bogolyubskiy.

Day 2: Suzdal and Kostroma

After a hearty breakfast, you will have a Suzdal city tour. Explore Suzdal’s own mighty Kremlin with its museum of wooden architecture before taking in a performance of the Bell Concert in the Spaso-Efimievsky Monastery. Kostroma is next on your tour, a city of rich history and vibrant cultural sites. You will see the Ipatiev Monastery, the Romanov's Palace, and the Trade Galleries. Yaroslavl will be your final destination this evening where you will check into your hotel and have dinner at a local restaurant. (B, L, D)

The Kremlin of Suzdal
The oldest part of Suzdal, the Kremlin sits prominently in the heart of the city. The north and south gates were crafted by a unique fire-gold technique and stand as some of the best-preserved examples of ancient Russian architecture.

Suzdal Museum of Wooden Art
Across the river from the Kremlin is the Museum of Wooden Art. The best wooden crafts have been brought here from all over the Russia since the 16th century.

Ipatiev Monastery
The Ipatiev Monastery took a special place in Russian history when, in 1613, it gave sanctuary to Michael Romanov, the first tzar of Russia.

Day 3: Yaroslavl and Rostov-the-Great

Today you will visit the famous Spaso-Preobrazhensky Monastery and the Ilya-Prophet Church. After lunch at a local restaurant you will continue to Rostov-the-Great, a gorgeous ancient city on the beautiful Lake Nero. Its ivory Kremlin houses the "Rostov Finift" Museum as well as many other fascinating historical sites. (B, L)

In the evening you will return to Moscow where your driver will take you to your hotel, cruise, or flight, depending on your travel arrangements.

Ilya-Prophet Church
The first church in the city, it was a tribute from tzar Yaroslav the Wise to God in praise for his legendary victory over the bear.

Rostov-the-Great’s Kremlin
Made of gleaming white stone, the Rostov Kremlin reflects the light of the sun onto nearby churches and cathedral domes. It was built more as a decorative piece than a defensive structure, explaining its abundant beauty.