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For complete itinerary details and videos, visit vikingrivercruises.com.au C H U R C H O F T H E S AV I O U R O N S P I L L E D B L O O D T H E H E R M I TA G E , S T. P E T E R S B U R G O P T I O N A L S H O R E E X C U R S I O N S O N Y O U R J O U R N E Y FABERGÉ MUSEUM View a magnificent collection of Russia's most renowned cultural treasures: the Fabergé eggs. Drive with your guide to St. Petersburg's Fontanka Embankment and Shuvalov Palace, home of the Fabergé Museum and an elegant setting for these priceless works of art. THE RUSSIAN BANYA Indulge in a sauna, steam bath and massage during a traditional banya ritual. Russian proponents of banya believe it is the only way to complete purification. They often have a standing weekly appointment and see the same people each time they go, forming friendships. THE HERMITAGE BEHIND CLOSED DOORS The Hermitage boasts some 3 million works of art and historical artefacts precious to Russia's heritage. Enjoy a private tour of the collection, then get Privileged Access to the secured vaults to examine hundreds of priceless treasures. ST. PETERSBURG UP-CLOSE CIT Y TOUR Experience this city on an intimate "street" level with a fascinating walking and Metro tour. Stop at the beautiful Eliseevsky Emporium, Art Square, the Church of Our Saviour on Spilled Blood, St. Isaac's Square and more… SERGIEV POSAD: RUSSIA'S GREATEST MONASTERY Enjoy a guided tour one of the largest monasteries in Russia and the spiritual centre of Russian Orthodoxy. Founded in the 14th century, the monastery is home to more than 300 monks today. KOMMUNALK A HOME-HOSTED VISIT Visit a communal home or 'kommunalka' shared by multiple families and experience a uniquely Soviet way of life. Enjoy tea and pastries with your host during this fascinating and eye-opening excursion. 94