Viking Cruises

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 KO M M U N A L K A V I S I T T H E H E R M I TAG E , S T. P E T E R S B U RG SPLENDOURS OF THE TSARS Visit Catherine Palace with its distinc t turquoise hues and rich rococo design and take in the splendour of the Amber Room. Later, explore the neoclassical Pavlovsk Palace, built for Catherine's son Pavel (Paul). Admire its understated elegance and rich collec tion of lush paintings, period furniture, carpets and antique sculptures. PRIVILEGED ACCESS: THE HERMITAGE BEHIND CLOSED DOORS Join a local guide for a tour of The Hermitage museum's public collec tion, including priceless masterpieces and grand spaces. Then, transfer of f-site for Privileged Access to the secured vaults. Join a historian for an in- depth view of one of the world's greatest museums. THE RUSSIAN BANYA Enjoy a rejuvenating spa treatment, Russian st yle. Indulge in a sauna, steam bath and massage during a traditional banya ritual. A combination of dr y sauna, steam bath, a 5- to 10 -minute therapeutic birch broom massage and a bracing coldwater rinse or plunge, the custom is integral to life in rural Russia. MOSCOW BY NIGHT Masters of light and design have worked to place bulbs and beams throughout Moscow's cit y centre so that the colours of its landmark buildings and park s are on full display af ter dark. Join your guide for a drive into the cit y, then embark a small boat to view the brilliance from the river — magical! SERGIEV POSAD: RUSSIA'S GREATEST MONASTERY Visit of one of the largest monasteries in Russia and the spiritual centre of Russian Or thodox y. Founded in the 14th centur y, the monaster y, formally known as Trinit y Lavra of St. Sergius, is home to more than 300 monk s today. Later there is free time to explore the town of Sergiev Posad. KOMMUNALK A HOME-HOSTED VISIT Accept your invitation into a communal home or 'kommunalka' shared by multiple families and experience a uniquely Soviet way of life. Learn about daily life and former times with your host over tea, pastries and conversation during this fascinating and eye - opening excursion. 108 For complete itinerary details and videos, visit viking.com/rivers

• Cover