7 Must Do Romantic

Activities in Timeless Russia

“On the road less travelled, Russia is undeniably romantic. “

In a subtle and authentic way, the spires and glittering palaces of Russia manage to intrigue and make you fall in love and at the same time. Russia is an eastern adventure – an enormous time capsule of grand architecture, riches of art & culture, and a people deeply proud of its heritage, and limitless in their hospitality. It is a magical place to visit at any time of year, but she is most charming when the onion-shaped domes are covered in snow and when the air is a velvety blend of Christmas carols and piping hot chocolate. Russia is special. It catches you by surprise in all the best ways – together you will find her unique, idyllic, and inspiring.

Ride a Horse & Carriage in Palace Square, St Petersburg
Walk the exquisite Nevsky Prospect in St Petersburg and find your way to Palace Square before the regal Winter Palace.

In the vast open space walled by the theatrical facades of the Admiralty, Winter Palace, and the Hermitage museum, soak in the prestige of Imperial Russia. At the sprawling cobblestone centre of the old Eastern Empire, wonder what it was like in the times of the Tsars and be seduced by the image. For a touristy, yet romantic treat, hire a plush horse and carriage and gently take in this beautiful part of Russia at sunset.

Dine overlooking St Isaac’s Cathedral, St Petersburg
Russia’s largest Cathedral is a grand monument to the powerful Russian Orthodox faith.

During the day, take a tour of the lavish structure and even undertake the dizzying roof climb. For the ultimate romantic experience, witness the twinkling golden domes of St Isaac’s from one of the nearby rooftop restaurants. Marsada is an excellent choice for superb food and panoramic views of the magnificent structure. Indulge in contemporary Five-star cuisine over an excellent wine, and make sure you don’t forget to take a photo with the cathedral in the background, that is bathed in lights after dark. It is the perfect scene for an anniversary, or a special night out in St Petersburg.

Walk dazzling Red Square, Moscow
One of the most romantic things you can do in Russia is strolling timeless Red Square.

It is 100% free, and you can spend hours going back and forth over the cobblestones marvelling at its grandeur. Not only is it a feast for the eyes, it teleports you through layers of Russian history. The towering fortress walls of the Kremlin watch over the square along with Lenin’s Mausoleum, and the iconic St Basil’s Cathedral sits at the far end like a beacon. The area is often full of happy couples from all over the world looking for the perfect picture, but there is always room to move. The colourful domes and twisting spires of this famous Orthodox cathedral look even more impressive in person, exuding romance at night. If it’s cold, walk the short distance to Russia’s most prestigious shopping centre that abuts the square, called Gum. This dazzling building takes on the look of Santa’s North Pole at Christmas time and is a hot destination for all travellers looking for high-end shops and cafés.

Skate in Gorky Park, Moscow
In winter, Moscow is like a fairy-tale, and Gorky Park is one its most beloved places to visit.

Perched along the river, famous Gorky Park is a hotspot for loved-up locals and swooning tourists looking for an enchanted evening. In the coldest months it is home to one of Europe’s largest ice-skating parks that can comfortably accommodate over 4000 people at one time. This is a fabulous activity to enjoy serenaded by twinkling neon lights and the smell of cooking corn on the cob. Take the hand of the one you love and joyously skate the night away, not forgetting to walk the vibrantly decorated park that must be seen to be believed.

The Trans-Siberian Express
A double pass on the enchanting Trans-Siberian Express is the perfect anniversary present.

For many, romance is about keeping things exciting, and on the world’s greatest railway journey, the far-flung reaches of the old Empire will have you thirsting for adventure. Begin in Western Russia and finish on the Pacific coast in five-star luxury. The far-east is a journey rich in scenic gems and diverse cultures ready to be discovered and immersed in. See an endless steppe, the world’s largest freshwater lake, and ancient Mongolia before docking in Vladivostok. 15 days exploring the mysterious reaches of idyllic Russia doesn’t sound too bad, does it?

The Grand Peterhof Palace, St Petersburg
The astonishing Summer Palace and gardens of the Russian Royal family invokes images of Anastasia and the golden galas of the Tsars.

Situated on the Baltic coast, the dramatic baroque architecture and fountains surrounded by lush manicured greenery rival anything you have seen in France or Austria and are well worth the half-day journey from St Petersburg. It was commissioned by Peter the Great in response to King Louis’s lavish creation of Versailles, so grandiosity and opulence is assumed. Go in summer when the yellow palace has a golden glow for that fairy-tale experience.

The Hermitage
The Hermitage is the home of Russian culture and is the second largest museum in the world of fine art and antiquities.

This jaw dropping structure holds a collection started by Catherine the Great. For history lovers and art enthusiasts, it’s a beautiful way to spend a full day. Book a tour to escape the mammoth queues and always look to go early – like the Louvre in Paris, the Hermitage is a pilgrimage for those with renaissance culture in their veins. Don’t miss the Imperial Jordan staircase – it’s often busy with Instagram snappers, but it optimizes the grand wealth of the Tsars. The gold-plated trimmings and exquisite murals will have you head over heels in love.

Russia is not to be missed…