8-Day Russia Trip with Friends — A Must-Save Guide

Hey friends, get ready for an 8-day trip to Russia! Explore the history of four palaces, stroll through Golden Ring towns, and experience the unique culture of Moscow's subway stations. Let's embark on this journey together! -------------------- Russia, a vast country spanning Eurasia 🌍, boasts a rich history, from Tsarist Russia to the Soviet Union, and now the Russian Federation. Its various names speak volumes about its historical transformations. Explore Moscow's Red Square and St. Petersburg's Winter Palace, and immerse yourself in the profound heritage of Orthodox Christianity and the unique local customs! 🏰🕌 -------------------- 🚩Itinerary: D1: Shanghai -> St. Petersburg 🛫 Depart from Shanghai and fly to beautiful St. Petersburg, kicking off our Russian adventure! D2: Peterhof Palace -> Winter Palace -> Alexander Column 🏰 Visit Peterhof Palace and experience its imperial grandeur. Then, head to the Winter Palace to admire its artistic beauty, and finally, visit the Alexander Column to reflect on the vicissitudes of history. D3: Catherine Garden -> Catherine Palace -> St. Isaac's Cathedral -> Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood -> Kazan Cathedral -> Nevsky Prospekt 🌹 Stroll through Catherine Garden, where nature and culture intertwine, and then visit Catherine Palace to savor its elegance and history. Afterward, visit St. Isaac's Cathedral, the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, and Kazan Cathedral to experience their religious sanctity and solemnity. Finally, take a leisurely walk along Nevsky Prospekt to soak in the local atmosphere. D4: Vasilievsky Island Rostral Columns -> Egyptian Sphinxes -> Peter and Paul Fortress -> Cruiser Aurora -> Smolny Convent 🚢 Visit the Rostral Columns on Vasilievsky Island and feel the vastness of the ocean. Then, see the Egyptian Sphinxes, a unique representation of Egyptian culture in Russia. Afterward, head to the Peter and Paul Fortress to trace the footsteps of history. Board the Cruiser Aurora and relive the fiery years of the revolution. Finally, visit Smolny Convent and experience the weight of history. D5: Sergiyev Posad -> Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius -> Moscow Subway 🏛️ Travel to Sergiyev Posad and visit the mystical Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, experiencing the piety and tranquility of religion. Afterward, take a ride on the Moscow Subway and marvel at the underground art. D6: Red Square -> Saint Basil's Cathedral -> Alexander Garden -> Kremlin -> Arbat Street 🌇 Stroll through Red Square and immerse yourself in Russia's historical and cultural atmosphere. Visit Saint Basil's Cathedral and admire its unique architectural style. Afterward, take a relaxing walk in Alexander Garden. Then, visit the Kremlin and experience the heart of Russian power. Finally, wander down Arbat Street and experience Moscow's street life. D7: Kolomenskoye Estate -> Moscow State University 🏰 Visit Kolomenskoye Estate and experience Russian aristocratic culture. Afterward, head to Moscow State University to appreciate its academic atmosphere and architectural beauty. D8: St. Petersburg -> Shanghai 🛬 Conclude our delightful Russian journey, depart from St. Petersburg, and return to Shanghai. -------------------- Must-See Attractions: 🌟 Winter Palace: One of the world's four largest museums, with an astounding collection! A sanctuary of art and culture, perfect for seniors to enjoy a feast for the eyes and soul. 🏛️ Kremlin: A blend of history and modernity, the complex includes the Armoury Chamber, cathedrals, and more, allowing seniors to easily experience Russia's profound historical and cultural heritage. 💒 Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood: A quintessential example of Russian architecture, colorful and exquisitely decorated, it's a great place for seniors to appreciate Russia's unique architectural art. -------------------- Travel Essentials: 🧳 Pre-Trip Checklist for Russia 📞 Prepare a phone card to stay connected. 🔌 A plug adapter is essential, as Russian outlets are different. 🪪 Ensure your passport and visa are in order for hassle-free entry and exit. 👚👖 Pack clothes suitable for the weather; March in Russia can still be cold. 🔋 Don't forget your charger to keep your devices powered up. -------------------- Experience the unique culture and customs of Russia. I'm already looking forward to exploring more of its hidden corners on my next visit!