Bus tour of St. Petersburg then free time downtown for shopping and lunch. Later we visit Peterhof, palace of Peter the Great, and admire the Golden Staircase of fountains and golden statues facing the manicured gardens. We then include a detailed visit to Catherine Palace, home of the Empress in a splendid garden setting with a lavish interior rivaling Versailles. A boat ride on the canals of St. Petersburg is another must-do in your visit, passing many palaces, parks, monuments and impressive apartments.