This will be an unforgettable tour by train to St. Petersburg, the old capital of the Russian Empire. St. Petersburg is nothing less than a true metropolis of arts - an attractive pearl for art lovers, ballet, music and theatre enthusiasts, as well as admirers of great architecture. This grand city, known as Leningrad during the Soviet period, was originally masterminded and built by Peter the Great in the 18th century as a rival to Venice. It stands proudly on a series of islands connected by more than 300 bridges in the easternmost corner of the Gulf of Finland. In recent years the city administration and residents have made energetic efforts to restore and preserve the historical image of St. Petersburg.

Innumerable treasures of European and Russian art can been seen in the museums, galleries and collections. The most important sights you will see during your visit are the splendid St. Isaac’s Cathedral with its gilded dome, the dazzling onion domed Church of the Saviour and State Hermitage Museum housed in the Imperial Winter Palace. Hermitage is one of the oldest and largest museums in the world. Magnificent works of art embracing prehistoric culture, Egyptian art and great collections of Western-European paintings and sculptures are displayed in the 400 halls of the museum.

Departure by train from Helsinki early morning, our tour includes a Russian visa, half-board accommodation, sightseeing, as well as visits to the Hermitage, Petershof, St. Isaac’s Cathedral and Peter and Paul Fortress. The tour is guided by a local English- speaking guide. Evening return to Helsinki on the 3rd day.

PRICE: 3750 FIM in a shared double room, 5100 FIM in a single room

PRICE INCLUDES:

- Russian visa

DURATION: 3 days

Please note that a visa is required for St. Petersburg. Due to the visa handling process, the reservation must be made by October 30, 1998 latest. An additional consular fee will be charged for citizens of certain countries. The Congress Agency will provide participants with visa application forms and instructions upon reservation and payment of the tour.