Nearly 15 years ago, Viking got its start in Russia. Today, we continue to own and operate ships along Russia’s waterways and offer a variety of included excursions and tours. The familiarity we have with the towns and cities along the river allow us to provide insightful behind-the-scenes views of the real Russia, and to offer unique and different ways to see the country’s great attractions and mingle with the locals.
The World’s Largest Art Museum
Over the span of 250 years, the collection of the State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, Russia, has grown to more than three million items including works from noted artists such as da Vinci, Michelangelo, Matisse, Rubens as well as Cézanne, van Gogh and Picasso. These treasures are housed along the embankment of the Neva River, in the heart of St. Petersburg. The highlight in this architectural ensemble is the Winter Palace, former residence of Russian Czars including Catherine the Great — just one of the works of art you will see on your tour.
A Legend Restored
Constructed of amber panels backed with gold leaf and mirrors, the Amber Room was given to Peter the Great by a Prussian King in 1716. Installed at Catherine’s Palace in Pushkin, it was later extended to cover nearly 600 square feet with over six tons of amber.
During World War II, German soldiers disassembled the room and it was never seen again. In 2003, a painstaking reconstruction was completed, enabling visitors to once again enjoy its brilliance. Admire it on your palace tour.