The Mariinsky Opera in St Petersburg

After 2011’s successful ballet trip, we are delighted to announce a long-awaited trip for opera lovers. St Petersburg plays host in this tour which combines stunning performances, Imperial treasures and a chance to experience the unique atmosphere and culture of the world-famous Mariinsky Opera Company in its home city.


Mon 12 Mar Afternoon arrival in St Petersburg and transfer to the 5-star Hotel Sokos Palace Bridge, which enjoys an enviable location on Vasily island in the heart of the historic city. Welcome dinner in the hotel restaurant.

Tue 13 Mar This morning we take a tour of the city by bus, seeing sights along the famous Nevsky Prospekt, the Square of Fine Arts and St Isaac’s Square. Afternoon at leisure. Transfer to the Mariinsky Theatre for your first evening performance.

Wed 14 Mar This morning we transfer to the Hermitage Museum for a guided tour of the vast collection of Imperial treasures on view. Return to the hotel for the afternoon at leisure before your transfer to the evening performance.

Thu 15 Mar Today we visit the baroque Catherine Palace, just outside St Petersburg. Built in 1752-56, the palace is the home of the recently restored and reopened Amber Room, a complete chamber decorated with panels of amber backed with gold leaf, as well as many other treasures. Lunch is included in a local restaurant before visiting the Rinsky-Korsakov Apartment Museum for a private concert of Russian folk music. Return to St Petersburg for an evening at leisure.

Fri 16 Mar Morning at leisure. This afternoon we visit the Yusupoff Palace, which includes the room where Rasputin was murdered. After the tour a farewell dinner is arranged in a local restaurant before the evening performance.

Sat 17 Mar Morning at leisure for independent shopping and sightseeing. Afternoon transfer to the airport for your homeward flight.

Flights: British Airways

Flight schedules are subject to alteration. Flights from other UK airports can be arranged on request.