Russian River Cruises

Embark on an incredible journey to discover the hidden jewels of the largest country in the world, Russia. Inaccessible for decades after World War II, many of Russia’s previously hidden treasures are now on show and with Scenic you will have the chance to visit some of its most famous sites in five-star luxury.

The rich cultural secrets of Europe’s eastern marches are revealed along the banks of the Russian Volga and Neva rivers, the serenely beautiful Lake Lagoda, and the vital grand canals that connect the legendary imperial decadence of St. Petersburg with Moscow’s historical splendor.

Get a FREE Russia River Cruising Brochure

Russian River Cruising Overview

For the majority of the 20th century, when the contemporary Russian Federation was under Soviet rule, much of Eastern Europe—and Russia, in particular—was not a region of the world that ranked high in international tourism, in part because its borders were either too difficult or too imposing for foreign travelers to cross. Such is no longer the case. In 2011, almost 25 million people visited the country, which increased to 28.1 million in 2012 and almost 31 million in 2013. As a result, Russian river cruises are more popular than ever, and there is no sign of that trend slowing down.

Given that the country covers more than 6.5 million square miles, it’s no surprise that a Russian river cruise offers a variety of enticing destinations. In total, Russia is home to 23 World Heritage Sites, as well as numerous destinations that could be declared World Heritage Sites in the coming years. Learn more about these world heritage sites and those to come in our videos below.

Moscow And St. Petersburg

Popular Russian tourism activities include tours of the ancient Golden Ring cities, a collection of townships and cities that were instrumental in the formation of the Russian Orthodox Church; however, the two most significant Russian cities for tourism are also the country’s largest. From the grace and elegance of the Ballet to the intrigue and imposing power of the Kremlin, the wonders found within the capital city of Moscow are guaranteed to thrill travelers of all ages and interest levels. Similarly, St. Petersburg is a city with a rich culture and history, and it features dozens of unique sites, including the Hermitage Museum, which is home to more than 650,000 works of art, almost 750,000 archeological artifacts, almost 14,000 examples of arms and armor, and more than 1 million pieces of currency. Other St. Petersburg attractions include Peterhof, an imperial estate that is considered the “Russian Versailles;” and an ancient stronghold that today features the tombs of every Russian emperor.

Learn More

Russian River Cruising

More and more travelers are realizing that Russian river cruises are an ideal way to experience many of those wonders. A journey down the Volga, Neva, and Svir Rivers; across the placid waters of Lake Lagoda; and through the country’s grand canals not only allows travelers to better understand Russia’s grand history, but it makes it possible for them to explore Russia’s two most culturally rich centers, Moscow and St. Petersburg, on the same trip.

View All Cruises