Helsinki offers a little bit for everyone. As well as walking through town, the 2 cathedrals and the Rock Church, I highly recommend a boat tour around the archipelago. The scenery is quite idyllic. Every cabin has a dock and a sauna, making it quite fun to compare to other waterfront properties around the world.
A must see. The WWII mystery is intriguing as well as the beauty. How did they do that?
Catherine Palace Rating: Not Rated
The history and architecture should not be missed.
Hermitage Museum Rating: Not Rated
This was a much more comprehensive tour than one I took several years ago with another line. The collection is amazing even if you are not an art enthusiast.
Neva River Cruise Rating: Not Rated
This was a disappointment. I anticipated more time on the canals, when in fact the majority of time was on the river. Not a good use of time as the significant views were few. I believed we would get a good look at the Church of the Spilled Blood, when in fact there was only a quick glimpse between the trees. We left the boat not two blocks away from the cathedral, yet could not see but the tips of the onion domes. I asked the guide if we could do a drive-by for photos and she declined being more anxious to get us to the souvenir shop where she would get a cut no doubt.
Peterhof Palace Rating: Not Rated
A must see. Do not miss the photos of the WWII destruction at the beginning of the tour. The senselessness of war should trigger rage within the common man. The reconstruction is remarkable. The fountains and grounds are as magnificent as the palace.
Russian Ballet Show Rating: Not Rated
Even as an athlete I could never do what they do. A great experience and enjoyable evening. A bit warm in the theatre so dress accordingly.
The remaning walls and towers are interesting. The history is unique. Keep in mind, the lower town tour does not include the cathedral, which is in the upper town. The upper town tour includes a trip out to a recreated village which is a bit ho-hum.
Our favorite northern Europe medieval town. We did the town on our own so really got to explore. Charming Riga is an accurate description. A lovely town in which to spend leisure time enjoying the shops, cafes, and architecture.
Beautiful countryside. Small town, but interesting history from the former East German perspective. Never having travelled to East Germany, the first-hand recollection of life under the GDR was very interesting. A very good history lesson and unfiltered account.
A strange combination of old and new side by side. The little mermaid is great for your scrapbook. The canal is quintessential Denmark and a photo opportunity not to be missed.
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