This was the absolute best way to get a taste of Russian metropolitan and village life! Viking's shore excursions were perfectly tailored to provide that broad overview of life in Russia. This was our third Viking River Cruise. We love the way Viking provides such a worry-free venue. You know you will be well cared for from the time they pick you up at the airport to the last drop off for your trip back home.

The crew, the boat, the food, the activities were all exemplary. I think the activity passengers really appreciated most was the open and honest way the Russian staff addresses modern life in Russia. Those talks were well attended and refreshingly open.

We specifically chose to cruise in October because we were hoping to catch the fall colors along the Volga River. We were not disappointed! The river was lined with a wall of gold Birch trees along the length of the cruise from Moscow to St. Petersburg.