Baltic Cruising Part 6: St. Petersburg, Russia on Day 1

We planned this trip around a 3 day stay in St. Petersburg. To describe the sights as "over the top" is an understatement. The Russian royalty lived in amazing opulence while everyone else was scraping by.

Welcome to St. Petersburg comrad! One of many palaces in the back ground with a product of the St. Petersburg ship building yard in the foreground.

Entrance to the Catherine Palace.

This is only half of it. I have never seen the girlie have such a look of amazement and wonder on her face as when she stepped through the gates.

One of the stairways.

Photos were allowed inside the palaces & cathedrals, but no flash. These images use natural light. The inside photos have a slight gold tone for a reason.

When it rained, Catherine needed somewhere to stroll without getting wet. This elevated location was sufficient.

When she wanted to "get away from it all" or have a private meeting, Catherine could retire to the Hermitage. This was a small retreat on her palace grounds.

Touring palaces makes one hungry. And thirsty. The lentil soup was the second of a four course lunch. We ate well. Along with lunch was Russian bottled water, champagne and vodka.

Take a look at this guy. I'm thinking KGB, GRU, Russian mob or just a paid informant to keep Putin aware of our activities.  

Our guide and other tour members. This lady was very well versed.

Entering the Yusupov Palace. The Russian merchant class were also part of the higher society.  

Final stop of the day. The Peter & Paul Cathedral inside the Peter & Paul Fortress.  

Tombs of the czars.

After a full day, back to our humble ship & a view across the river.

Next post brings us day 2 of St Petersburg. The Hermitage museum, a boat ride along the canals and 2 cathedral visits.