White Nights overland tour

Day 1. Moscow (Arrival).

Pick-up at airport arrivals hall. Transfer to the hotel, check-in. The rest of the day is free for your own exploration or relaxation.

Walking tour around Moscow city center. A guided stroll through central Moscow (approximately 2 hours):

We will start from your hotel that is located close to the Red Square and its surroundings. We will see the famous landmarks such as the Kremlin Wall, St. Basil’s Cathedral exterior, GUM Mall, Lenin’s Mausoleum, Kazan Church, and the State History Museum, Nikolskaya walking street.

A brief introduction to the Moscow Metro system can be arranged upon request.

Additional Tour Options:

If you're interested in further exploring Moscow, here are our suggestions:

Option 1: Private vehicle tour of iconic streets & architecture (3-3.5 hours)

Visit key attractions including:

Red Square and St.Basil’s Cathedral, Bolshoi theater and Alexander garden, Government buildings like the State Duma, Historical sites such as Lubyanka square and KGB headquarters, Vantage points like Sparrow hills and Moscow-city business district, Cultural highlights like Victory park and the Cathedral of Christ the Savior.

Option 2: Moscow river cruise on the amazing Radisson yacht (2,5 hrs).

Accommodation: 5* hotel in Moscow (Meals: -/-/D)

Day 2. Moscow - Sergiev Posad Distance: 104 km

Your journey begins with a pickup from your Moscow accommodation as we drive the SUVs comfortably to Sergiev Posad, located northeast of Moscow. Upon arrival in Sergiev Posad, visit the renowned Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius Monastery. Explore its spiritual significance and historical importance as one of Russia's foremost Orthodox monasteries. Take time to wander through the monastery complex, admiring architectural masterpieces such as the Holy Trinity Cathedral, the Assumption Cathedral, and other notable structures within the grounds.

Additional activity includes visiting an adventure park where you can drive military tanks and shoot AK-47 rifles. Here you can feel the adrenaline while controlling genuine military tanks and experiencing powerful weaponry.

At the end of an eventful day, we arrive to a cozy hotel in national Russian style, providing a well-deserved rest after an unforgettable day.

Accommodation: hotel in Sergiev Posad (Meals: B/L/D)

Day 3. Sergiev Posad - Koprino Distance: 245 km

Today we carry on our memorable summer journey along the Volga river. We will head to Koprino, situated on the scenic banks of the Rybinsk Reservoir, only 40 km away from the city of Rybinsk. On the way we will travel through various delightful, genuine towns of the renowned Russian Golden Ring, such as Uglich, Myshkin, and Kaliazin. The Golden Ring is a collection of historic Russian cities northeast of Moscow, perfect for those who wish to enjoy the tranquil life of the Russian province, beautiful countryside views, and ancient architecture. In Kaliazin, you will enjoy a guided tour of the town center, famous for its unique bell tower rising from the water.

In Uglich, an excursion of the historic center and a visit to the Uglich Hydroelectric Power Station are planned, subject to access permissions. En route, you will have the opportunity to admire the scenic landscapes and lush greenery typical of the Russian summer. In the evening, we will stop at a beautiful park hotel on the shore of the Reservoir, surrounded by a gorgeous forest. The hotel’s renowned spa facilities are at your disposal, offering a perfect way to relax after a day of exploration.

Accommodation: boutique hotel on the lake (Meals: B/L/D)

Day 4. Koprino Bay – Activity Day

Escape the city routine and enjoy a summer day full of surprises and fun activities at Koprino Bay. You can choose to relax at the hotel’s modern wellness center or explore a variety of outdoor options. We will set up a cozy tent on the shore of the reservoir, offering refreshing drinks and snacks. Take a ride on a speed boat across the lake, or try stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, fishing, jet skis, and bicycles for an active adventure. If you prefer land activities, go for a scenic bike ride or a walk to admire the beautiful views of the Russian countryside. End the day with refreshing cocktails at an open-air bar by the water, making this experience truly unforgettable.

Accommodation: boutique hotel on the lake (Meals: B/L/D)

Day 5. Koprino Bay – Vologda 284 km

Today we set off on an exciting summer road trip from Koprino Bay to the historic city of Vologda. On the way, we will visit Rybinsk, known for its beautiful reservoir and rich cultural heritage. The journey continues with thrilling off-road adventures through the picturesque Russian countryside, offering a unique way to explore the region’s natural beauty. A highlight of the tour is a visit to Semenkovo, an open-air museum of wooden architecture in the Vologda region, where you can discover traditional Russian village life and craftsmanship. The route is filled with scenic landscapes, charming towns, and opportunities for outdoor activities. This tour is perfect for those seeking a mix of adventure, history, and relaxation in the heart of Russia.

Accommodation: hotel in Vologda (Meals: B/L/D)

Day 6. Vologda – Tikhvin 438 km

Today we set off on a scenic summer road trip from Vologda to Tikhvin, covering a long but rewarding distance through the Russian countryside. Although the route is extensive, summer brings long daylight hours, allowing us to travel at a comfortable pace. We will make plenty of stops along the way to rest, take photos, and enjoy the beautiful landscapes. The journey takes us through charming villages, lush forests, and historic places, offering a true taste of provincial Russia.

In Tikhvin, you will have the opportunity to explore its famous monastery and learn about the old town’s rich history.

Accommodation: cottage hotel in Tikhvin (Meals: B/L/D)

Day 7. Tikhvin – Petrozavodsk Distance: 445 km

Departing from Tikhvin, we embark on a comprehensive exploration of Karelia's breathtaking wilderness. The roads lead us towards Petrozavodsk, tracing the scenic coastline of Lake Onega. On the way, we visit the unique village of Verkhnye Mandrogi, famous for its traditional Russian wooden architecture, artisan workshops, and picturesque landscapes. In summer, the village is especially vibrant with blooming gardens, folk performances, and opportunities for enjoyable activities. Next, we cross the Svir River by ferry and continue along the stunning western shore of Lake Onega, the largest lake in Europe. This grand body of water frames our journey, occasionally veering onto lesser-traveled roads punctuated by multiple photo stops to document the surrounding scenery.

Concluding our day in Petrozavodsk, the administrative capital of Karelia, we enjoy a relaxing walk along the inviting lake shore promenade. Throughout this journey, the magic of Karelia's white nights ensures bright evenings, as the sun barely dips below the horizon. Although the route is extensive, this self-drive tour is designed to be enjoyable and relaxing, with frequent breaks to ensure the trip remains pleasant and never tiring.

Accommodation: hotel in Petrozavodsk (Meals: B/L/D)

Day 8. Kizhi – Activity Day

This morning marks the beginning of an exciting excursion by speedboat across the tranquil waters of Lake Onega to the renowned Kizhi Island. Spanning roughly 1 hour, this journey transports us to a sanctuary of exceptional architectural heritage. While woodcraft is widespread across Russia, Kizhi Island distinguishes itself by housing some of the country's finest examples. Structures dating back centuries, meticulously relocated to preserve their integrity, showcase masterworks of ecclesiastical design, religious artistry, and domestic craftsmanship from diverse Karelian, Vepsian, and Russian settlements. From ornately carved churches to humble rural abodes, these structures narrate the evolution of building techniques and artistic sensibilities over generations. Complementing this immersion in history, our return to Petrozavodsk concludes with a delightful meal at one of the city's famous Karelian restaurants.

Accommodation: hotel in Petrozavodsk (Meals: B/L/D)

Day 9. Petrozavodsk – Sortavala Distance: 245 km

Leaving the hospitable city of Petrozavodsk behind, we set course for Sortavala this morning. Making a brief halt by a serene lake allows us to stretch our legs and absorb the tranquility of the summer forest. Traversing forest paths, we put our robust vehicles to the test on varied terrain. Mid-journey, we arrive at Kinerma, a quintessential Karelian village, where a warm welcome awaits with tea and homemade pies. Later, we indulge in a satisfying lunch at a traditional Karelian restorant followed by a refreshing hike through the wooded park to admire the resplendent Belie Mosty Waterfalls. By evening, amidst the ethereal illumination of Karelia's white nights, we reach our accommodations, tucked discreetly within the embrace of the forest bordering a picturesque pond. For those whose spirits remain unflagging, an optional guided tour of Sortavala's historic district reveals the town's distinctive blend of Nordic influences evident in its architecture and streetscapes.

With endless days of sunlight illuminating the landscape, your stay promises to be nothing short of magical.

Accommodation: hotel in Sortavala (Meals: B/L/D)

Day 10. Sortavala - Saint-Petersburg Distance: 336 km

Following breakfast, we head straight to Ruskeala Mountain Park, a must-see destination. Initially opened as a marble quarry in the 1600s, it supplied material for palaces and churches in St. Petersburg until closing in 1985. Since 2005, the site has been operated by a private travel company and features walks around flooded quarries, industrial ruins, and mysterious tunnels.

After visiting the park, we move along Lake Ladoga's northern shore to see waterfalls and the medieval Korela fortress in Priozersk.

For those wishing to avoid congestion, consider joining a White Night Boat Cruise on the Neva River, admiring the city's raised bridges illuminated against the backdrop of the balmy summer night.

Accommodation: 5* hotel in Saint-Petersburg (Meals: B/L/D)

Day 11. Saint-Petersburg (Departure)

Today we will bid farewell as the guests head to their flights back home.

Accommodation: 5* hotel in Saint-Petersburg (Meals: B/-/-)