a baltic journey
/Best of St. Petersburg, Tallinn & Helsinki in 9 Days, a Rick Steves Tour
/st. petersburg
In the morning we were led by a local guide through the backstreets of St. Petersburg; this is when I realized I have yet to go to Russia. St. Petersburg is neither Russia nor Europe. It was created by the vision of Peter the Great. I guess I will have to travel to Moscow someday.
The best part of our walking tour was using the courtyards and back alleys to get around. Any open gate is like an invite for people to use as a short cut. Behind the grand facades on the boulevards lie the apartments of everyday people. All of a sudden the city doesn't seen so big.
I really enjoyed learning of the city's history and the struggles it has gone through and still going through. Our local guide was amazing; one of the best walking tours I have ever taken.
We started at the hotel and took the long way around to end at St. Isaac's Catherdal. We stopped at a German church that was at one time converted to a pool; entered Kazan Cathedral wearing proper head scarves; enjoyed a coffee break at a wonderful bakery; viewed an interior courtyard while learning about living in St. Petersburg; and then ended
by Parliament and the Catherdal.
day 8 - st. petersburg walking tour, free afternoon and farewell dinner
st. isaac's cathedral
So after seeing this big gold dome in the distance everyday; I finally got to go inside it. This place was huge! Unfortunately I did not climb the dome. As soon as I saw where you had to walk to get to the top my fear of heights kicked in; plus it was too hot out. But other people's photos looked good!
After relaxing in the Cathedral and taking in all the beauty; it was time to find an option for lunch. Our group chose Italy for pasta and some others went to McDonald's to see if it was different.
I spent the rest of the afternoon relaxing and getting ready for our farewell dinner.
canal cruise and farewell dinner
Before our dinner the group enjoyed a canal cruise. St. Petersburg is said to be the Venice of the North. This was a great way to end our final day in the city and be able to view it from a new perspective.
We were treated to a Georgian meal for our last dinner together. There was so many courses and food that we could not possibly get through it all; but it was so very tasty.
On our stroll back to the hotel I wanted to stop at my favorite sight one last time....
