Minsk – Vitebsk

Arrival in Minsk. Panoramic city tour, during which you will discover the most precious monuments of the city: the Orthodox and Catholic cathedrals – including the Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral (early 17th century) and the Church of Saints Simon and Helena (also known as the Red Church) of the early 20th century; the oldest street of the city – Nemiga, and the picturesque Upper Town – the historic city center. The final destination of our walk is the Trinity Hill (or Trinity Suburb) – with its nimerous museums, souvenir shops, cafes and taverns. Transfer to the hotel. Check-in. Overnight in Minsk.

Breakfast at the hotel. You will see the most valuable UNESCO monuments of Belarus – the Mir Castle Complex and the Nesvizh Castle. The majestic Mir Castle, built in the first quarter of the 16th century, with its remarkable architectural appearance, picturesque walls, towers and courtyard, will not leave you indifferent. You will also have a chance to explore the historical part of the town of Mir, including its central square. Lunch in Mir. Transfer to Nesvizh (around half an hour). – a former residence of the Radziwill princely family. During the excursion, you will see the Market Square with the old Town Hall, shopping arcade and craftsmen houses, as well as the Sloutskaya Brama – the city gate dating back to the 17th century. Visit to the Nesvizh Castle, built by the Italian architect Giovanni Maria Bernardoni in the 16th century – a majestic palace and park complex with high ramparts, vast ponds and the elegant Grand Court. Visit to the Catholic Church (built in 1593 by Bernardoni) – one of the most precious in Belarus. Return to Minsk. Overnight at the hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel. Departure for Polotsk. The road goes through Lahoysk and the Berezinsky Biosphere Reserve. Arrival in Polotsk around noon. Guided city tour of Polotsk – the historical city of Belarus, situated on the Dvina River. We will visit the Saint Sophia Cathedral of Polotsk, dating back to the 18th century, discover the Cathedral museum, go down to the dungeon and enjoy an organ music concert. Then, we will visit the Museum of Belarusian Printing and discover the active Saint Eufrosyne Monastery – a women’s Orthodox monastery sheltering the relics of Saint Eufrosyne of Polotsk. Lunch. Departure for Vitebsk. Accommodation at the hotel. Free time. Overnight in Vitebsk.

Breakfast at the hotel. Guided city tour of Vitebsk – the hometown of one of the greatest artists of the 20th century, Marc Chagall. During this tour, you will see a gracious Town Hall (which houses nowadays the Regional Museum), the Governor’s Palace and residential houses of the 19th century. Visit to the Marc Chagall Museum. Lunch. Visit to the Estate-Museum of Ilia Repin “Zdravnevo”. Free time. Transfer to Minsk. Overnight at the hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit to the Museum of ancient crafts and technologies Dudutki – with tasting of “samogon” (homemade distilled alcoholic drink), and a ride on a traditional cart. This ethnographic museum is now one of the most visited in Belarus! You will explore the traditional life of locals, and have an opportunity to see Orlov trotters (a horse breed), ostriches, wild boars and other animals. You will have a picnic in a picturesque meadow and enjoy the aristocratic atmosphere of noble estates.

3 tastings included:

* In the spirits manufacture (alcoholic beverage, bread, pickles, honey)
* At the bakery (fresh bread, 3 kinds of cheese, butter, tea)
* At the mill (farmhouse bread with lard or bacon)

Transfer to the airport for return flight.