During your approximately 45-minute journey to the palace, get a feel for the grand side of the city as you view its most spectacular sights and its splendid historical center. Pass the famous Winter Palace, a stunning structure built as the official winter home of the Romanovs. Today, the elaborate Rococo-style building is part of the vast Hermitage Museum complex.
Arriving at the Grand Duke Vladimir Palace, begin your visit to one of the most impressive of Russia's estates. Built for Prince Vladimir as a coming-of-age gift from his family, the palace is perfectly preserved. During its role as one of the major centers of Russian cultural life, the residence was filled with precious art collections, which are now housed in the Hermitage Museum.
During your guided tour, admire the marble staircase leading to the Crimson Drawing Room, the palace dining rooms and the Oak Room, boasting numerous pictures representing Russian fairy tales.
After your visit to this extraordinary palace, proceed to the museum dedicated to an extraordinary man, Fyodor Dostoevsky. A contemporary of Prince Vladimir, Dostoevsky led a completely different life amid completely different surroundings. In his writings such as "Crime and Punishment," "The Idiot," "The Possessed," and "Brothers Karamazov," Dostoevsky described people who belonged not to royal society, but to the working class and the ranks of the poor.
Pay a visit to the last apartment of the famed writer located at Kuznechny Lane, #5. Dostoevsky moved to the apartment with his family in 1878 and lived here until his death in 1881. The residence consists of six rooms, a hall and a kitchen. Of particular interest is the writer's study, where he wrote "Brothers Karamazov" and part of his Writer's Diary.
Inspired by Dostoevsky's life and home, rejoin your motor coach and return to your ship.
Important Notes: This is a specialized excursion, partially focusing on the life and work of Fyodor Dostoevsky. As this excursion involves extensive walking and stair climbing, it is not recommended for guests with walking difficulties. It is recommended that guests dress in warm, layered clothing and wear flat, comfortable shoes. The order of sights visited may vary.