Russia attracts from all over the world with its enigmatic charm and the unique things it has to offer. Designated a destination on everyone’s ‘things to do before I die’ list and one of the few places with an immediate ‘wow’ factor, the largest country on the planet remains one of the least understood and thus most intriguing. The excellent products on offer and the unique combination of programs tinged with the exotic make Russia one of the world’s most attractive destinations today.
On the territory of Russia the monuments of different cultural and political epochs are preserved in their original state: there’s no need to enumerate architecture and painting masterpieces created on the territory of Russia, they have already won the world fame and their grandeur can for sure compete with those of Old Europe sights that puts Incentive in Russia on the list of most interesting incentive travel destinations.
Russia, with its rich history and new opportunities, offers unique venues for conferences and meetings, incentive programs and cultural entertainment.
The incentive and conference industry possesses endless capabilities and enormous potential. Programmes of incentive tours and tourists itinerary in Russia are developed individually taking into account the goals, desires, and budget of each specific client. Forging a close-knit team, improving employee motivation, finding a common language with partners, and encouraging regular clients are all goals that are tackled by incentive programmes, and the results can be amazing. This is a great opportunity to combine active recreation and business interests.
Below, we present successful incentive projects that have already been realized, as well as new ideas for organizing corporate relaxation and incentive tours. We have great experience in organizing incentive tours and itinerary in St.Petersburg and Moscow.
Firmata Travel provides incentive travel in Russia, which includes incentive tours and itinerary in St.Petersburg and Moscow.
Travel in Russia easy and comfortably with Firmata Travel!
Thinking of Russia, two great cities immediately come to mind: Moscow and St. Petersburg. This monumental 12/ 11-day itinerary includes multiple days in both cities, touring such landmarks as Moscow’s Kremlin and Red Square as well as Catherine’s Palace in Pushkin and the Hermitage in St. Petersburg. But, there is another side of Russia—quaint riverside towns like Yaroslavl, Uglich and Goritzy that only a river cruise can provide. See opulent palaces, discover fortified monasteries and visit beautiful cathedrals. It is an unforgettable way to experience the history and culture of this unique and mysterious country.
ITINERARY FOR CRUISE MOSCOW – St.PETERSBURG 12 days/ 11 nights
Day 1Moscow
Welcome to Moscow. We will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your ship.* After boarding, you have free time to relax before dinner. (D)
Day 2Moscow
Relax this morning and enjoy an early lunch before your half-day tour of Moscow. See the famed Bolshoi Theater and stop at Red Square for a view of the colorful onion domes of St. Basil’s Cathedral and a visit to the famous GUM Department Store. You will also get the chance to experience the city’s Metro. Stay in the city center for an evening performance of traditional Russian folkloric music. (B, L, D)
Day 3Moscow & Moscow Canal
After breakfast, travel to the city’s famous red brick enclosure known as the Kremlin. See its many tall towers and elegant palaces, and tour inside one of the brightly colored cathedrals. Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Moscow Canal after lunch as we depart the city. (B, L, D)
Day 4Uglich
Cruise through the morning and, after lunch, disembark for your walking tour through the provincial village of Uglich, one of the Golden Ring cities—ancient towns that preserve the memory of Russia’s historical events. See the former Kremlin of Uglich and visit the Church of St. Dmitry on the Blood, built on the site where Ivan the Terrible’s son Dmitry was mysteriously killed. Depart before dinner; cruise through the night. (B, L, D)
Day 5Yaroslavl
Arrive this morning in Yaroslavl, another Golden Ring city. Ride along the river banks where you will see the Church of the Epiphany. Then, visit the Church of St. Elijah the Prophet, featuring wonderfully detailed frescoes and icons. Here, you are treated to a traditional choir performance. Take free time to shop for handcrafted souvenirs before returning to your ship for lunch and departure. (B, L, D)
Day 6Goritzy & Volga-Baltic Waterway
Arrive this morning in Goritzy, a typical Russian village. From here, you visit the renowned Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery, founded by Saint Cyril in 1397. Your guided walk takes you through the historic grounds, seeing many small wooden chapels, the Assumption Cathedral and a museum. Return to your ship for lunch and an afternoon departure. Spend the remainder of the day cruising along the Volga-Baltic Waterway. This system of rivers and canals, spanning 229 miles and seven locks, links the Volga River with the Baltic Sea. (B, L, D)
Day 7Kizhi
As you cruise through the morning, admire the tranquil waters of Lake Onega, Europe’s second-largest lake. Arrive late afternoon at the island village of Kizhi. Set out on a walking tour through the Open Air Museum of Architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you see a collection of wooden houses, windmills and churches representing ancient Russian architecture, highlighted by the famous three-tiered Preobranzhenskaya (Transfiguration) Church. This fairy-tale structure was built in 1714 without a single nail. Depart in the evening and cruise through the night. (B, L, D)
Day 8Waterways & Mandrogy
Spend a relaxing day cruising across Russia’s intricate waterways. Sail along the scenic Svir River, sailing the 139-mile “Blue Route” as it takes you southwest from Lake Onega. Stop in Mandrogy and take time to explore this model Russian community. Visit the vodka museum or shop for handmade Russian craft items. Continue along the Svir, then cross Lake Ladoga, Europe’s largest lake, on your way to the Neva River. All meals served aboard. (B, L, D)
Day 9St. Petersburg
Sail on the Neva River into St. Petersburg early this morning and embark on a city tour after breakfast; see noted sights including St. Isaac’s Cathedral, Peter & Paul Fortress and Nevsky Prospekt. After a picnic lunch, enjoy the city on own or reserve the optional visit visit.
The rest of the day is at leisure to further explore St. Petersburg, “The City of 300 Bridges. Lunch and dinner are served aboard. (B, L, D)
Optional visit: Tsarskoe Selo (Pushkin)
Visit Catherine’s Palace in Tsarskoe Selo, the elegant rococo summer residence of the Russian Czars, named for Catherine I (widow of Peter the Great). Tour its various halls, including the storied Amber and Agate Rooms, and see the ornate décor throughout.
Day 10St. Petersburg
Morning tour to the world-famous Hermitage Museum. Marvel at the vast collection of art, antiquities, jewelry and sculptures. Return to your ship for lunch. The rest of the day is at leisure to further explore St. Petersburg, the North Venice city or accept our optional visit. . Lunch and dinner are served aboard. (B, L, D)
Optional visit: Peterhoff Peterhof Palace, with its landscaped gardens, beautiful fountains and French Gothic interiors
Day 12St. Petersburg
After breakfast, disembark and we will take you to the airport for your return flight. (B)
The following meals are included: B = Breakfast; L = Lunch; D = Dinner
Booking Discount
2-for-1 cruise pricing, up to 2-for-1 on air, plus complimentary wine with dinner. Book & pay by Oct 31.
ITINERARY FOR CRUISE St.PETERSBURG – MOSCOW 11 days/ 10 nights
Day 1St.Petersburg
Welcome to St.Petersburg. We will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your ship.* After boarding, you have free time to relax before dinner. (D)
Day 2St. Petersburg
City tour after breakfast; see noted sights including St. Isaac’s Cathedral, Peter & Paul Fortress and Nevsky Prospekt. After a picnic lunch, enjoy the city on own or reserve the optional visit visit. The rest of the day is at leisure to further explore St. Petersburg,
“The City of 300 Bridges. Lunch and dinner are served aboard. (B, L, D)
Optional visit: Tsarskoe Selo (Pushkin)
Visit Catherine’s Palace in Tsarskoe Selo, the elegant rococo summer residence of the Russian Czars, named for Catherine I (widow of Peter the Great). Tour its various halls, including the storied Amber and Agate Rooms, and see the ornate décor throughout.
Day 3St. Petersburg
Morning tour to the world-famous Hermitage Museum. Marvel at the vast collection of art, antiquities, jewelry and sculptures. Return to your ship for lunch. The rest of the day is at leisure to further explore St. Petersburg, the North Venice city or accept our optional visit. . Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Balt Canal after lunch as we depart the city. (B, L, D)
Day 4Waterways & Mandrogy
Spend a relaxing day cruising across Russia’s intricate waterways. Sail along the scenic Svir River, sailing the 139-mile “Blue Route” as it takes you southwest from Lake Onega. Stop in Mandrogy and take time to explore this model Russian community. Visit the vodka museum or shop for handmade Russian craft items. Continue along the Svir, then cross Lake Ladoga, Europe’s largest lake, on your way to the Neva River. All meals served aboard. (B, L, D)
Day 5Kizhi
As you cruise through the morning, admire the tranquil waters of Lake Onega, Europe’s second-largest lake. Arrive late afternoon at the island village of Kizhi. Set out on a walking tour through the Open Air Museum of Architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you see a collection of wooden houses, windmills and churches representing ancient Russian architecture, highlighted by the famous three-tiered Preobranzhenskaya (Transfiguration) Church. This fairy-tale structure was built in 1714 without a single nail. Depart in the evening and cruise through the night. (B, L, D)
Day 6Goritzy & Volga-Baltic Waterway
Arrive this morning in Goritzy, a typical Russian village. From here, you visit the renowned Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery, founded by Saint Cyril in 1397. Your guided walk takes you through the historic grounds, seeing many small wooden chapels, the Assumption Cathedral and a museum. Return to your ship for lunch and an afternoon departure. Spend the remainder of the day cruising along the Volga-Baltic Waterway. This system of rivers and canals, spanning 229 miles and seven locks, links the Volga River with the Baltic Sea. (B, L, D)
Day 7Yaroslavl
Arrive this morning in Yaroslavl, another Golden Ring city. Ride along the river banks where you will see the Church of the Epiphany. Then, visit the Church of St. Elijah the Prophet, featuring wonderfully detailed frescoes and icons. Here, you are treated to a traditional choir performance. Take free time to shop for handcrafted souvenirs before returning to your ship for lunch and departure. (B, L, D)
Day 8Uglich
Cruise through the morning and, after lunch, disembark for your walking tour through the provincial village of Uglich, one of the Golden Ring cities—ancient towns that preserve the memory of Russia’s historical events. See the former Kremlin of Uglich and visit the Church of St. Dmitry on the Blood, built on the site where Ivan the Terrible’s son Dmitry was mysteriously killed. Depart before dinner; cruise through the night. (B, L, D)
Day 9Moscow & Moscow Canal
After breakfast, travel to the city’s famous red brick enclosure known as the Kremlin. See its many tall towers and elegant palaces, and tour inside one of the brightly colored cathedrals. Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Moscow Canal after lunch as we depart the city. (B, L, D)
Day 10Moscow
Relax this morning and enjoy an early lunch before your half-day tour of Moscow. See the famed Bolshoi Theater and stop at Red Square for a view of the colorful onion domes of St. Basil’s Cathedral and a visit to the famous GUM Department Store. You will also get the chance to experience the city’s Metro. Stay in the city center for an evening performance of traditional Russian folkloric music. (B, L, D)
Day 11Moscow
After breakfast, disembark and we will take you to the airport for your return flight. (B)
The following meals are included: B = Breakfast; L = Lunch; D = Dinner
Early Booking Discount
2-for-1 cruise pricing, up to 2-for-1 on air, plus complimentary wine with dinner. Book & pay by Oct 31.
Yaroslavl, Russia is a town of about 600,000 residents at the junction of the Volga and Kotorosl Rivers. Yaroslavl is almost 1000 years old, having been founded in the year 1010 by Kiev Prince Yaroslav the Wise. As our river ship was delayed by fog during the night, we were only in Yaroslavl for a few hours, but our driving/walking tour did take in the key sights.
Yaroslavl is home to many churches, most dating back to the 16th or 17th century. We went inside the Church of St. Elijah the Prophet and were mesmerized by the magnificent icons and frescoes of the church. A small men’s choir serenaded us, which added to the atmosphere. Next, we rode the short distance to the Spassky Monastery, which is one of the oldest complexes in Yaroslavl. We gazed up at the Spaso-Preoprazhensky Cathedral (Savior Transfiguration Cathedral) and were entertained with a bell concert outside the cathedral. Finally, we enjoyed watching a wedding motorcade of gaily decorated cars zip through the streets.
UGLICH – ANCIENT TOWN ON THE VOLGA RIVER
Uglich is a small town of about 37,000 residents on the Volga River 136 miles north of Moscow. The view of the two huge churches when the ship sailed into Uglich was breathtaking. Uglich was the last port of call on our journey from St. Petersburg to Moscow. We had visited a small village (Svirstroy), a UNESCO Heritage Site (Kizhi Island), and a mid-sized city (Yaroslavl) on our Russian Waterways cruise. So, along with the many miles of countryside, we saw a diverse section of Russia.
Uglich has a long storied history. It was a favorite of Ivan the Terrible in the 16th century. His son Dmitry was murdered in Uglich in 1591, and the brilliant red Church of St. Dmitry on the Blood was built to honor the slain young prince.
We did a walking tour of Uglich and had plenty of time for shopping at the numerous vendors’ stands between the town and the ship. Uglich is a peaceful, quiet town, and most of us agreed we would like to have stayed longer.
SVIRSTROY – A TYPICAL RUSSIAN VILLAGE IN KARELIA
Svirstroy is a small village of about 1000 residents located on the Svir River about 150 miles east of St. Petersburg. The Svir connects the two largest lakes in Europe–Lake Ladoga and Lake Onega. Svirstroy is a port of call on Russian Waterways cruises between St. Petersburg and Moscow, and we stopped over for a half-day there.
The highlight of our day in Svirstroy was a walk through the small village and a visit to the home of Julia, a retired widow who served us tea and piroshkies while we queried her about life in Svirstroy over the past 75 years. We also loved the shopping in Svistroy, which was much cheaper than in the cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg. The residents of this small village have built wooden kiosk-sized shops and sell all sorts of Russian handicrafts and artwork. Fortunately, it was a short walk back to the river ship!
KIZHI ISLAND – OPEN AIR ART MUSEUM
Kizhi Island is one of over 1650 islands in Lake Onega, the second largest lake in Europe. Lake Onega is found in the Republic of Karelia, and Kizhi is one of the largest outdoor museums in Russia. Kizhi focuses on peasant life and customs in the Russian north and includes 83 wooden structures, most of which date back to the 18th or 19th century.
Kizhi Island is often included as a port of call on Russian Waterways cruises between St. Petersburg and Moscow. The museum has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1990. The open air exhibit includes churches, homes, and other old wooden buildings that were either built on Kizhi or have been collected from around northern Russia and preserved on Kizhi.
We visited Kizhi for a day and loved walking around and learning about this fascinating part of the world. It was a rainy day, but the trails were wooden or paved, so we just wore our rain suits and carried umbrellas
