Stop At: Raifa Monastery
This tour can be customized to make it a unique experience for you.
10am Meet your knowledgeable local guide in your hotel lobby, hop inside your private, air-conditioned vehicle and head out to the Raifa Bogoroditsky Monastery, unique architectural landmark located in outskirts of Kazan. On your way admire magnificent bucolic landscapes and learn about history of Kazan which traces its beginnings to 11th century. Feast your eyes on outstanding ensemble of churches with golden crosses on the green and sky-blue domes and white-stoned Gate bell-tower while your expert guide will entertain you with fascinating stories about origin and history of ancient cloister.
Stop At: Trinity Cathedral
12pm Hear about hieropriest Philaret, founder of Monastery who had settled in 1613 Raifa, constructing a solitary cell and visit highlights of the complex - Trinity Cathedral and Georgian Cathedral.
Stop At: Cathedral of the Georgian Icon of Our Lady
See Georgian Cathedral, home to the main shrine of the monastery – an exact copy of the miraculous Georgian icon of the Mother of God. Immerse yourself in amazing atmosphere of solitude and serenity, amble along the scenic banks of adjacent Raifa Lake and take in the beauty of pristine nature. Visit the chapel with the Holy spring, scour for Raifa souvenirs and step in for a leisurely lunch at one of the cozy cafes located nearby.
Stop At: Temple of All Religions
2pm Your appetite sated, venture to the Temple of All Religions, which is also known as the Universal Temple. The structure is not an active temple of any one religion, but a unique cultural complex and one of the most visited sites in Kazan. Hear personal story of its founder, local artist and philanthropist Ildar Khanov and marvel at peaceful combination of quirky elements representing the religious architecture of 16 major religions of the world including several cupolas, minarets, Chinese domes and spires.
Stop At: Spasskaya Tower of the Kazan Kremlin
3pm From here, continue to Kazan Kremlin, striking white limestone fortress built at the behest of Ivan the Terrible on the ruins of the former castle of Kazan khans. See the monument to Musa Dzhalil, prominent Soviet Tatar poet, deepen your knowledge about Russian history
Pass By: Monument to the Zodchim of the Kazan Kremlin
See the landmarks of the Kazan Kremlin
Stop At: Kul Sharif Mosque
Admire the grandeur of iconic landmarks like enormous white and blue Kul Sharif Mosque, legends-steeped Leaning Suyumbike Tower and gorgeous Annunciation Cathedral (all from outside). Wander along the scenic Kremlin embankment, eye up to the ‘Kazan’ family center built in the form of a huge boiler-cauldron and learn about the origin of the name of the city.
Pass By: Leaning Suyumbike Tower
Take in the views of the astonishing Suyumbike Tower
Pass By: Annunciation Cathedral
See the Annunciation cathedral from outside
Stop At: Agricultural Palace
4-5pm Ogle to sumptuous Dvorets Zemledeltsev (Agricultural Palace) and fuel up with cup of tea or coffee with delicious Russian blini (own expense) before your tour concludes.
