From Moscow to Vladimir to Suzdal, then on to Nizhny Novgorod, Yoshkar-Ola and Kazan, this tour takes you around Russia's iconic Golden Ring, and by doing so traces not just the country's historic, religious and cultural development but also the world's.

In Moscow, you’ll enjoy an enthralling guided tour of the capital, including Lubyanka Square and the fabulous Moscow Underground, which surely is the most unique metro system in the world with its mosaics, stained glass, and bronze sculptures. Red Square, a must-see landmark, is surrounded by magnificent architecture including the Kremlin towers, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and the Lenin Mausoleum.

The next stop is one of Russia's former medieval capitals, Vladimir. A tour of the city unveils its treasures one exciting and informative glimpse at a time, including the Golden Gates, Assumption Cathedral, and the Cathedral of St Demetrius.

You’ll transfer overnight to the beautiful museum-city of Suzdal, with its churches, monasteries, and markets – a pleasure to explore the following day.

From Suzdal, you’ll transfer to Nizhny Novgorod, one of the oldest cities in Russia, where you’ll explore the Novgorod Kremlin, Yaroslav's Courtyard, and the Yuriev Monastery before continuing on to the lesser-visited, but nonetheless unique, cities of Yoshkar-Ola and Kazan.

An overnight train back to Moscow allows you to complete this small group history and culture tour of Russia in style.