Volga

Volga River cruise tips & insights
Volga cruise definition
Volga cruises sail on Russia's largest waterway, which stretches from the Baltic Sea to the Black or Caspian Sea. It comprises a vast network of rivers (including the Volga) connected by lakes, canals, and locks.

Appeal
The more a traveler is interested in history and cultures, the more he will relish a Volga cruise.

Volga cruise routes
There are two basic routes (each with a variety of itineraries offered by an array of cruise organizations). One route lies north, the other south of Moscow.

• Between Moscow and St Petersburg
  Most popular and interesting route.
  
• Between Moscow and the Black or Caspian Sea
  More time consuming and less exciting.

The remainder of this page focuses on the northern route.

Top 3 cruise ports of call
Select a Volga cruise itinerary that includes these three small, historic villages/towns:

1. Kizhi Island
   Open-air architectural museum featuring a striking wooden cathedral
   
2. Uglish
   Transfiguration Cathedral and St Dmitry Church
   
3. Yarslavi
   St Elijah Church's frescoes and icons

Pre- and post-cruise excursions
Definitely spend time in both Moscow and St Petersburg before and after your Volga cruise. The two cities are rich in attractions, including these three Hillman Wonder Gold Medal winners:
   Hermitage Museum  St Petersburg
   Kremlin  Moscow
   St Basil's Cathedral  Moscow

Select your ship with care
Scores of ships sail the Volga cruise. Over 90% of them fall well short of Central European cruise standards. One of the worthy ships is the MS Tolstoy.

Prime cruise season
It runs from late spring to early fall. Avoid heat and crowds by going in May or September

Visa headache
Be aware that obtaining the needed Russian visa can be bothersome or (if you use a visa service) expensive.