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Educational Tours for Discovering the World

Find your trip and learn about all the fun you'll have with ACIS!

Elevating educational travel from “good enough” to exceptional is what we do everyday.

Our mission.

Empowering educators to introduce their students to the world beyond the classroom and inspire the next generation of global citizens. Travel changes lives.

This entire trip honestly felt like a dream! We could not have asked for a better experience, and my kids learned and grew so much in nine days.” Katie F. Group Leader When I heard “Wow” many times during the trip, I knew that they were learning, feeling challenged, and having, as many of them said, the best experience of their life.” Mara K. Group Leader There are things in my career that make me feel like I’m doing the right thing, and this is one of them.” Jessica D. Group Leader 1 /

We’ve got your back every step of the way

This is a partnership. That means we’ll do everything we can before your educational tour departs and while you’re abroad to ensure your planning and traveling are a complete success.

Pre-Departure

Let’s talk about your ideal trip.

The best educational tours fit your unique vision and learning goals. So let’s start the conversation!

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Destination

• Los Angeles
• Mackinac Island
• New Orleans
• New York City
• Philadelphia
• San Francisco
• Springfield
• Washington, DC
• Québec City
• Czech Republic

Arts & Culture

Social studies & history, inspire learning.

Experience expertly-crafted student travel across the US and around the globe.

We are industry leaders in safety and security standards, conducting strict audits and providing 24/7 support.

Our custom tours are designed by you, for you. From STEM tours to band trips, if you can dream it, we can create it!

From crafting your custom-tailored itinerary to leading your group on the road, our travel experts will guide your every step.

Whether you plan the annual 8th grade trip to DC or you're studying the birth of democracy in Athens, our Social Studies and History tours make the textbook pages come alive.

Give your band, orchestra, or choir the chance to train with world-famous artists and discover cities rich with culture and history.

Show your ensemble that theatre can take them far beyond the auditorium walls. Take in a hit show, participate in clinics with master artists, and perform in world-renowned destinations.

Journey to cultural capitals that inspire your students to see the world from a new perspective as they experience the works of master artists and icons.

As a preferred travel provider, we have over a decade of experience planning custom TRIO tours for programs across the country. We handle all the details — including college visits, admissions presentations, and must-see cultural attractions — so you can have a stress-free, inspiring travel experience.

Bring the classroom to life

Our educational tours are custom-tailored to your curriculum, making the pages of a textbook come alive.

Brightspark has been supportive, professional, and extremely helpful in working through the difficulties of COVID-19. Your company has shown exemplary customer service. We will DEFINITELY travel with you in the future. We appreciate all you have done for our families.

Read more success stories

Make the world your stage

Give your ensemble the performance opportunity of a lifetime on a custom music, dance, or theatre student trip.

I am still smiling thinking about our fantastic trip to Disney World last month! Over the year of planning, I spent hours on the phone with Brightspark, and they were always resourceful, helpful, and understanding of my needs.

Group Leaders:

Locate tools to help you create a successful trip.

Parents & Students:

Find out how you can prepare for your student tour.

Why Brightspark?

For over 50 years, Brightspark has been helping educators and directors take their students on customized, personalized tours across the world. From exploring the history of Washington, D.C., to performing in Europe's culture capitals, our student tours are all about getting an interactive, hands-on experience — all while having tons of fun!

Safety & Security

Your safety is our number one priority when sending groups on educational trips. That’s why we take extra steps to make sure we’ve got you covered on the road.

Custom-Tailored Tours

Your group deserves an ideal travel experience, so our team crafts custom itineraries tailored to your needs. If you can dream it, we can build it!

Step-by-step Guidance

Tours should be hassle-free. From planning a unique trip to leading your group on the road, our team of travel experts will guide your every step.

Firsthand Knowledge

Our Tour Consultants are not only travel experts, but also former educators who can relate directly to your specific needs and challenges.

Trusted Experience

The Brightspark team has planned inspiring tours for tens of thousands of student groups over the last five decades, developing strong relationships in each of our destinations.

Refund Guarantee Protection

Surprises can disrupt even the best-laid travel plans. Our RGP plan for domestic tours returns every penny spent on trip payments when a tour is cancelled.

Teaching Diversity Through Student Travel

Sharing her advice on building an inclusive curriculum, Group Leader Lisa said, "Culturally relevant thinking and pedagogy is allowing students to bring their experience into the classroom."

At Brightspark, the world is our classroom, and she inspired us to consider how diverse communities influenced some of our favorite cities over centuries of migration, struggle, and progress.

Download Our Catalogs

Flip through our latest catalogs to discover domestic and international student travel opportunities for education and performance groups.

Benefits of Educational Travel

Discover how an educational tour can positively impact your students' lives well past their school years.

Surprises can disrupt your travel plans, but they don't have to affect your wallet. Learn how to protect your student travel investment.

Singing Our Way Across the Music Cities

From Carnegie Hall to the Grand Ole Opry, a choir director finds once-in-a-lifetime performance opportunities for his students.

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Inspire a new perspective on the world

Student or parent? Join your teacher’s tour.

Experience the modern approach to educational travel.

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With EF Explore America, students are bound for an incredible experience that will exceed their (and your) expectations. That’s because our compelling itineraries are rooted in human connection—and crafted specifically for you.

View all tour types →

Popular Class Trips

See what experts (read: our savviest students and well-traveled teachers) consider their favorite tour experiences.

Social Studies Tours

Investigate the most important elements of society by walking the streets where history happened and today’s culture is created.

Show your students the real-world importance of STEM through hands-on experiences and collaborations with experts in the field.

Our people are your people

Joining the EF family means you’ll have the support of our community of educators, tour architects, operations wizards, and ever-curious explorers. We’ve experienced the transformative power of travel firsthand—and we can’t wait to explore the opportunities that are out there for you and your students.

Meet your people

What’s important to you is important to us

We believe travel is for everyone. When students go beyond the classroom it brings education to life, unlocks new potential, and opens a world of possibilities. That’s why we prioritize safety, value, and the kind of learning that prepares students for the future and their futures.

Safety & flexibility →

Tour reviews

Live, unedited & independent traveler reviews

For over 55 years, we’ve dedicated ourselves to one global mission: Opening the World Through Education .

Learn more about EF →

Feel the impact of travel

Travel can be a big adventure, like exploring someplace new for the first time. But it’s also about the smaller moments on the road. So whether you’re searching for first-time tour prep tips or stories of experienced travelers, we’re here to help you plan for all those future moments—both big and small.

See all stories & resources →

All about “STEM Discovery: Boston”

We’re pulling back the curtain on everything that goes into this incredible Boston STEM program.

Hundreds of destinations. Endless possibilities.

Browse tours Contact us

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• Bowl Games, Parades and Events
• Prestigious Stages
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Exceptional Travel Experiences for Students

Kaleidoscope Adventures is a full service tour company specializing in student group travel.

Destinations, Performance Trips

Don’t Miss Your Chance to Perform in Ireland for St. Patrick’s Day 2026-2027!

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day by marching in the world-renowned St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin or another amazing spot!  There are regional parades and celebrations throughout Ireland ready to host your band.

Elite Performance Series at Carnegie Hall

Shine the spotlight on your talented middle and high school ensembles as they take part in exciting festival performances with acclaimed clinicians at iconic Carnegie Hall.

The Elite Performance Series is a concert performance, clinic, and prestigious performance – all in one exceptional event. March 18 – 19, 2024  |  New York City, New York

Tim Davis Experience

H igh school choirs of 15 or more are invited to take part in this transformative three-day performance opportunity with Tim Davis in the Smoky Mountains.

The Country Tonite Theatre will host student groups as they participate in intensives and performances curated by Tim Davis himself.

THIS IS YOUR CHANCE TO BE SEEN AND HEARD by one of the top players in the entertainment industry!! April 22-25, 2024  |  Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

Why Kaleidoscope Adventures?

As a leader in the student travel industry for 30+ years, Kaleidoscope Adventures exceeds expectations for student and performance group travel.

We'll work with you to plan an exceptional travel experience and provide impeccable customer service from start to finish

Student Group Travel Blog

Strike The Right Note: 6 Essential Tips for New Band Directors to Build a Successful Program

Expert Advice for Flying with Marching Band Instruments

Virginia International Tattoo: Insider Tips to Showcase Your Band

Ultimate How-To Guide for International High School Travel

Our proud partners.

Happening Now

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What Our Clients Say

I have been traveling with Kaleidoscope for 19 years and still continue to be impressed by their expertise and willingness to go the extra mile to make my trip a success!

Our trip was a great success! Everything was well thought out and organized. I am very pleased with the level of care that went in to our trip becoming a success. Thank you!

Kaleidoscope Adventures was incredibly easy to work with while planning our trip to Disney World. The staff was knowledgeable, quick to communicate, and patient with all of my questions while planning. Our tour director was also flexible throughout our trip as we made sure all of our students were taken care of.

Using Kaleidoscope Adventures gave us the easiest, most enjoyable trip of my career. I used to plan trips myself, but never again! All staff went above and beyond to help me and provide my students with memories that will last forever.

This was our first school trip with Kaleidoscope taking a group of 80 students and chaperones from the Washington, DC area to Nashville, TN. Every expectation was exceeded! We will DEFINITELY use Kaleidoscope again for our school trip planning!

The parents and students all had an unforgettable trip and that is much to your passion for providing the best trip possible! You have such attention to detail and were always willing to talk to me through email or on the phone even if it was the fifth time that day! I truly appreciate the time that you spent making our trip so amazing! Thank you so very much!

What an excellent trip. Everything was planned out to make a very memorable experience for my students. Linda was a wonderful tour guide. She handled all my request with professionalism and expedience. Karla knocked it out of the park with helping me set up the trip, even through a pandemic! Kaleidoscope Adventures is a top notch tour company that will do what it takes to create the best experience for you and your students.

Working with Karla and Steve it was so easy. They were helpful whenever we needed them and went out of their way to assist us whenever they could. This is our second trip with them and we will definitely be using them again! We had some change of plans due to Covid and they were so accommodating and made things so easy for our group. This is a company that knows what they’re doing and is a great group of people to work with!

The KA team is outstanding. From the moment you begin to talk with an event planner until the moment you arrive home, someone is always available to make your life easier. Our consultant, Joseph, is incredibly knowledgeable and laid out every aspect of the trip, complete with the pros and cons of every option. Once settled, our account manager, Lisa made sure every logistical hurdle was cleared and laid out concise directions for how things needed to be done. Finally, our tour director, Cameron, was always there, in person, to make sure our events ran smoothly. He constantly advocated for our group and made sure we were taken care of. I would consider our trip to be a great success had it ended there, but there is still more. Our latest trip ran into a weather issue when it came time to return home. KA was there every step of the way to exhaust every possible option to get us home.  I don’t know what I would have done if it were not for the KA team. They planned an amazing trip and didn’t stop until we were home safely. If you’re looking for a tried and true company to plan your trip, your search should start and end with KA. You will not be disappointed.

Neal, Cameron and the entire Kaleidoscope Adventures team made our trip a great experience! From the planning to the on site help, the entire trip was made easy for the directors!

Kaleidoscope Adventures continues to be the best choice I have made as an educator to plan and execute our travel needs. I just worry about the kids now and can focus on our performance and no more worries about bus,hotel, meals and shows! Thank you for serving us so well for the last 19 years!!

Kaleidoscope Adventures makes traveling with your school group as easy and enjoyable as possible! I have worked with them for many years now and they are outstanding.

Kaleidoscope Adventures is a company that I’ve collaborated with for years and I feel in my heart that education and safety are right at the top of their priority list. They tailor a trip to the specific needs and requests of the group and are patient with all of the requests of the teacher in charge. In short, they are the best!

When you get tired of working your fingers to the bone getting your trip together, give in and use the staff at Kaleidoscope Adventures. I have never been less stressed when taking a trip with middle school kids. They are top notch and are extremely thorough. I will never use anyone else.

I have been working with Joseph and the team for 10 years in 2 schools after having worked with 2 other tour companies. The professionalism and attention to detail are unmatched. They are always a phone call away from solving any problem and their experience offers fresh and new approaches to established group travel traditions. I once again thank you for yet another successful tour allowing me to focus on the students and not the logistics.

Kaleidoscope Adventures takes a personal interest in each and every trip and their staff works tirelessly to make sure it’s a great experience for my students. They go above and beyond with even the smallest details. We have loved every trip we’ve taken with KA and can’t wait until the next one!

Here’s everything you need to know.

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Student Travel

Why travel as a student.

Although there is never a bad time to see the world, traveling when you're a student is particularly rewarding for a whole host of reasons. We'll run you through the key ones, and also give you advice on what to do, where to do it and, most importantly, how you can make it all happen for the best possible price. We always have discounts and deals running, whether on flights , hotels , cars , or tours .

Traveling as a student is awesome on so many levels. We could easily list 100 reasons here, but here are our top five!

Discounts & deals

There are TONS of deals to be snapped up when you're a student, both in the planning stages (i.e. booking your flights) and also once in-destination (i.e. using your student card to get discounted entry into amazing places). At StudentUniverse we always have cheap student flights available, deals on tours and discounts on accommodation.

Break from studies

Studies are super important - we know you know that - but it's important to find a balance, too. The last thing you want to do is burn yourself out, spending endless nights up to the early hours, gulping down energy drinks (and other types...). Travel gives you a literal breath of fresh air, and provides really valuable perspective on things.

Personal growth

There's nothing like traveling to send your confidence into overdrive, and no matter what career you ultimately pursue, nothing will get you further than confidence and a healthy mindset. Whether you're hostel-hopping around Australia , on a sailing adventure in Croatia or negotiating the Trans-Siberian Express, you'll return home a totally different person.

Real world experience

It's all well and good learning things in theory in a classroom, but nothing can substitute actual real life experience when it comes to taking things in on that vocational level. This is why traveling as a student is such a great time to do it - you can merge these two types of education. If you're training at school to be a teacher, why not try actually teaching for real on a TEFL placement in Thailand ?

Employers love it!

Travel experience frequently pushes candidates to the top of the pile when applying for jobs. Think about it: if everyone's taken the same courses and has reasonably similar grades, employers will be looking for that extra something to make people stand out. Travel is often the answer to that. Plus, you'll have all that confidence mentioned earlier - it goes a long way!

What we offer

Amazing flight discounts

Become a member to unlock exclusive student flight discounts (up to 30% off).

Browse epic tours

Guided tours are perfect when traveling alone or with friends. See everything, plan nothing. Sweet deal.

Great hotels on a budget

Because with discount flights, you need discount hotels, right? Right.

Car rentals – search, compare & save

Dind cheap rental cars at over 60,000 locations worldwide

Things to do when traveling as a student

There are certain types of travel experiences that are perfectly suited for students, and we'll whisk you through them here.

The big one. Tours are a fantastic way to travel as a student, as they provide enough structure to guarantee safety and ensure you have a rich experience, but you also have plenty of freedom, so it won't feel like you're on a school trip! The toughest thing about adventure tours is choosing what to do. Canoeing down the Mekong River in China? City-hopping around Europe? Scaling Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania? The choice is yours...

Study abroad

Clearly perfect for student travel, study abroad placements are great for those who don't necessarily want to pause their education, but at the same time are craving the thrill of living in new destinations and making friends from different cultures.

Internships

Similarly to studying abroad, doing an internship overseas is a smart way to combine your current or chosen path with real life experience in new cultures. If you're studying to be a veterinarian, for example, you could do an animal-care internship in South Africa, working with exotic beasts.

Flight and wing it

Maybe… just maybe… you're fed up of being told what to do by everybody, and what to think, and where to stand, and how to do it. Maybe what you need is to break free, to have an adventure, experience true spontaneity, see what it's like to have a total lack of a plan. In that case, you can just book a one-way ticket to wherever, and the world's your oyster!

Best destinations for student travel

As with deciding what to do, there are some really great options when it comes to figuring out where you want to go, and we can get you there with our discounted student flights. Check out some of our guides below to some top student travel destinations. These include places like Australia , which with its Westernised culture and exotic landscapes offers a perfect first step into adventure travel; explore more of the USA , with its options for epic road trips and tours; and Asia , with its buzzing cities, paradise islands and amazing street food.

Student travel services

So, we've shown you why traveling as a student is a great time to do it, and hopefully you're sufficiently inspired by all the amazing things you can do, and the mind-blowing places you can see!

But we're not done yet. For all this to become an epic reality, there are a few practical concerns to think about, and we can help with these too! Apart from booking your flights at a great price, we can advise on things like travel insurance and visas , and help you find great accommodation within your budget. Once you've signed up to become a member (it's free!) you'll also have 24/7 access to our travel services. This customer care center is dedicated 100% to finding you the best deals with our partnered airlines, and of course answering any questions you have once you've booked.

Student travel resources

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Overnight educational tours for

Elementary, middle & high school students.

Junior Tours recognizes that travel is the foundation of a well-rounded education.

Our nation is a mosaic of diverse cultures and experiences.  Educational travel offers an amazing opportunity for students to expand their horizons through first-hand discovery.

We build relationships, at Junior Tours.  Thousands of teachers bear witness to that.  More than 90% of teachers come back to Junior Tours for educational trips and tours with their students, again and again, year after year.  That’s because they love our personalized service and the professionalism, variety and seamless execution that’s made Junior Tours the nation’s premier student travel company.

Junior Tours is a family owned and operated business, established by a teacher over 50 years ago.  Our tradition is offering students real world education that supports classroom learning, bringing it to vibrant life.

With superior knowledge and experience, we make North America’s great cities a feast for young minds.  You can count on affordable prices, easy payment plans and customized itineraries any time you travel with Junior Tours.

Educational travel dreams start right here, with destinations that fire student imaginations.

EXPLORE ALL OF OUR STUDENT TOUR PACKAGES

Featured Cities

• New York City

Washington D.C .

Known as an industrial hub, it’s also served as a fulcrum for laborers, seeking their own American dreams.  From the Magnificent Mile with its famed skyscrapers, to its celebrated son, architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s enduring legacy, Chicago offers students endless opportunities to learn.  A city of museums, public art and a rich historical legacy, this is an unforgettable city.

As though that weren’t enough, students will also have an opportunity to encounter the American space program in this gem of a city at the Kennedy Space Center.  But with Sea World here, they’ll also want to hobnob with the marine life this exciting attraction is internationally known for.

Our Journal

Vol. 40: American Education Week

VOL. 39: Updates & Announcements

Vol. 38: MARTY ABRAMS…THE LEGACY OF OUR FOUNDER

VOL. 37: Happy National Teacher Appreciation Week!

SEE ALL JUNIOR TOURS TRAVEL JOURNAL ENTRIES

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REQUEST A STUDENT TOUR QUOTE

Please call 1-800-631-2241 and we can provide you all the information to plan an amazing trip for your students. Or spend two minutes completing this form and we’ll email you an itemized price quote and itinerary within 72 hours.

Tour Information

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Be a Traveler, Not a Tourist

Meaningful and authentic teen travel. explore our 2024 programs..

Language Immersion

Community Service

Cultural Exploration

Photography Workshops

For Older Teens

For Middle School

Authentic travel.

We are committed to our mission of inspiring youth and providing transformative travel experiences. We use a hands-on approach to discover what it means to live like a local in each destination. Our programs instill a love for travel, hunger for learning, and genuine curiosity about different cultures.

Ditch the tour bus and have a real traveler’s experience with us this summer!

Ready for an authentic teen travel experience?

Choose from 46 countries to explore.

Featured Programs

Ultimate European Explorer

• Jun 29 - Jul 23 Available

Current Grades

Program length.

Hawaii Sea Turtle Service & Adventure

• Jun 29 - Jul 9 Full
• Jul 10 - Jul 20 Limited
• Jul 21 - Jul 31 Available
• Aug 1 - Aug 11 Available
• Jun 19 - Jun 29 Available

9, 10, 11, 12

Europe for Middle School: Greece, Italy & the Islands

• Jul 11 - Aug 4 Very-limited

Europe for Older Teens: Amsterdam, Munich, Swiss Alps & Venice

• Jun 29 - Jul 11 Very-limited
• Jul 3 - Jul 15 Available
• Jul 23 - Aug 4 Limited

Costa Rica for Older Teens: Adrenaline

• Jul 10 - Jul 20 Available

Costa Rica for Middle School: Adrenaline

• Jul 21 - Jul 31 Very-limited

Japan Discovery & Service

• Jun 25 - Jul 11 Limited
• Jun 29 - Jul 15 Very-limited
• Jul 11 - Jul 27 Full
• Jul 27 - Aug 12 Very-limited

Thailand Elephant Service & the Islands

• Jun 25 - Jul 11 Full
• Jul 27 - Aug 12 Available

Canada for Middle School

Canada Adventure

• Jun 29 - Jul 9 Available

South Korea Discovery & Service

• Jul 15 - Jul 31 Available

Greece, Italy & the Islands

• Jul 11 - Aug 4 Available

Peru Service

• Jun 29 - Jul 9 Very-limited

Peru, Ecuador, & the Galápagos Service

• Jun 29 - Jul 19 Very-limited

Bali: Healthcare Education & Medical Outreach

• Jul 21 - Aug 6 Full

Greece Island Hopping Summer Break for College Students

• Jun 18 - Jun 28 Available

Europe for Middle School: Sláinte Ireland

• Jul 29 - Aug 8 Limited

Scotland & Ireland Adventure

• Jul 27 - Aug 8 Available

Costa Rica Sea Turtle Service & Adventure

• Aug 1 - Aug 11 Contact-for-details

Costa Rica Wildlife Rescue & Service

• Jul 21 - Jul 31 Limited

Tanzania Service & Safari

Barcelona & Paris

• Jun 23 - Jul 3 Full
• Jul 15 - Jul 25 Full
• Jul 27 - Aug 6 Available

Europe for Older Teens: Ultimate European Explorer

• Jun 21 - Jul 15 Full
• Jul 11 - Aug 4 Full

Costa Rica Animal Rescue Service

• Jun 29 - Jul 19 Limited
• Jul 21 - Aug 10 Very-limited

Europe for Older Teens: Berlin, Krakow, Vienna & Budapest

• Jul 15 - Jul 27 Limited

Greece: Athens & the Islands

• Jun 21 - Jul 3 Limited
• Jun 29 - Jul 11 Limited
• Jul 3 - Jul 15 Full
• Jul 11 - Jul 23 Limited

Browse Our Teen Travel Programs by Grade

Explore our programs by grade and find the perfect unforgettable trip.

7th & 8th Grade Programs

9th & 10th Grade Programs

11th & 12th Grade Programs

College Programs

Why TFT is the best in youth travel

Local experiences.

Our mission is authentic travel. We partner with local experts to create enriching experiences that teach teens to be savvy travelers. Every program is designed to be hands-on—emphasizing doing and feeling, in addition to just seeing, so teens discover what it means to live like a local in every country we visit.

Small and Diverse

Group sizes of 16-24 students allow us to travel comfortably and to make real connections to each other and the host community. Participants come from a mix of different states, regions, and countries. We also welcome solo travelers — 75% of our teens join us without a friend!

Transformative Teen Travel

Travel isn’t just about new places; it’s about new perspectives. We encourage teens to step outside their comfort zone and into cultural immersion. They leave our programs with a better understanding of the world and with the confidence to keep exploring!

The Most Variety

We offer more programs in more destinations than any other teen travel company. With over 100 programs and 40+ countries to choose from, you’re sure to find a program that’s the perfect fit.

Travel with us and discover why we are consistently winning awards for Top Youth Travel Organization.

Authenticity is ingrained in everything we do. Eat, stay, and travel like a local.

Check out what past travelers have to say about TFT and discover why we are consistently winning awards for Top Youth Travel Organization.

"Finding your program was a gift! It is the BEST opportunity out there for children to travel the world with like-minded peers & reasonable responsible and fun-loving young adults who want to go and explore these incredible cultures and countries. I appreciated how clear you made it that kids can come without friends and a willingness to make new friends. The trip had it all… adventure, history, independence, amazing people, great food, and beautiful lodging all while keeping mom and dad at home informed and feeling like all is well with their child as they grow and experience this incredible gift of grace. I am very grateful for you all and the HUGE team that makes this program work so smoothly. Thank you tons and tons. Travel on and keep up the great work!!!" Parent Europe for Older Teens: Prague, Austria, Slovenia & Croatia

"This is simply one of the best things we ever did for Ethan. That first trip opened him to a new world. Different cultures, food, diversity, sights, relationships, team building, confidence, independence...only a few of the positive gains for Ethan. Now, he is off to George Washington University with confidence, excitement, and an awareness for others for which we are so grateful. We are pleased and appreciative beyond words to be a member of the TFT family for a lifetime!" Diana S. Paoli, PA

"Thank you for giving Kat such a great experience. She had a wonderful time. You guys are terrific. The great parental bonus -- and I'm sure you hear this all the time -- is the photographs and the daily email. We get to see what the kids are seeing and we get to see the group and we get to see our teen. What could be better? Viewing the pictures became our evening ritual: out on the deck overlooking suburbia, sipping cold drinks, and oohing and ahhing over the photos, feeling almost like we were there. I'm sure you're awash in praise like this -- as you should be. Kat had such an enriching trip. Thank you very much! With any luck she'll be back next summer." Tom and Madora K. Old Lyme, CT

"I have traveled with TFT for four summers now, exploring Costa Rica, Croatia, Fiji and Greece. These trips have been the highlight of my summers. They have broadened my horizons and strengthened my confidence. Going on these trips and meeting new people changed how I view the world. I love having conversations with locals and people I meet along the way. The small TFT groups and the knowledgeable and enthusiastic group leaders make for a fun and eye-opening experience. What sets TFT apart is that we immerse ourselves in the culture and we are not just tourists. We meet locals, hear stories about their lives, and it is truly invigorating. Travel For Teens has given me so much more than fun memories over the summer. They have given me the ability to be comfortable talking to anyone, being in new places, having a widened perspective on other cultures, and to be independent. On my Costa Rica and Fiji trips, we volunteered with school children. In a very short time we made deep connections that I will always cherish. I feel so fortunate to have had my eyes opened through TFT to so many beautiful places and memorable people." Anna F. Basking Ridge, NJ

Unforgettable Adventures Off the Beaten Path

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Seven Top Student Travel Providers

Student travel is on the rise and to help you with all your planning needs, we present the student travel providers you need to know

When educators first get the inspiration to travel with their students, they usually turn to a tour operator that specializes in student travel. Whether it’s a short trip to the state capital or an international adventure, these organizations can smooth the way and make the planning process a positive experience. Lifting many of the burdens off the teacher’s shoulders, experienced operators take care of all the details, from flights and bus transportation to hotel arrangements. They also may provide free travel and other incentives to teachers interested in forming groups.

Here is a brief look at 7 top student tour operators and what they offer:

1. WORLDSTRIDES

While on a trip with his class to Washington, D.C., a middle school teacher from Chicago realized the positive impact travel had on students and established Lakeland Tours in 1967. In the 1990s, Lakeland Tours combined with other travel programs, including American Student Travel, Educational Field Studies, Heritage Festivals, Bowl of America and Wider Horizons to create WorldStrides . Since then, many others have joined, including Classic Festivals, Accent Travel Group, New Century Tours, TravelMBA, Casterbridge Tours and Envision.

WorldStrides is a travel study school that is independently accredited in regions across the country and around the world. It provides educational travel programs for elementary, middle, high school and university students. WorldStrides’ mission is “Enriching Students’ Lives Through Experiential Travel.” One popular destination is Washington D.C, where students learn about American government and history in the nation’s capital. The 4-day trip visits sites such as the Arlington National Cemetery, Washington Monument, White House, Mount Vernon and Holocaust Museum.

Educators can also gain valuable experience by traveling with WorldStrides. Qualified educators can receive free professional development or low-cost graduate credit.

2. EDUCATION FIRST

EF, short for Education First , is a world leader in international education based in Cambridge, Massachusetts with a global presence in 120 countries. Since 1965, this family-owned business has been bringing people around the world together through its learning programs that help students reach their education goals by providing educational travel, cultural exchanges, language training and academic degrees.

Tour highlights include a 9-day tour of Athens, Crete and Santorini, in which students will learn about ancient Greek history, visiting sites such as the Knossos Palace, Acropolis and Agios Nikolaos. For groups who enjoy wildlife, Discover South Africa is an 11-day tour that allows students to learn about South African politics and history while viewing natural attractions like Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens and Kruger National Park. Sustainability is at the heart of a 6-day trip that celebrates Earth Month by addressing climate change in the Dominican Republic by working with El Instituto del Ambiente, an institution that focuses on reforestation and the conservation of natural resources.

Teachers who lead EF tours get access to a wide range of opportunities to connect with other globally minded educators and grow personally and professionally—they can even earn professional learning hours or points while traveling. And with EF Global Rewards, teachers earn points they can redeem for VIP Rewards Tours (aka, just-for-fun adventures that go all over the world) as well as student scholarships and other EF travel opportunities.

3. EDUCATION TRAVEL ADVENTURES

Since 1991, Educational Travel Adventures has been the company of choice for so many educators planning trips for their students. With a combination of tours, site visits and experiential learning experiences, ETA can customize each subject-specific trip for maximum results. ETA offers destinations around the world, including more than 40 cities in North America as well as cities in Europe, Latin America, the Caribbean, Africa, Oceania and Middle East.

Beyond destination-focused, trips can spotlight adventure, art, civics and social studies, film and TV production, history, language and culture, and science. Some of EFT’s most popular trips include a 4-day

professional workshop experience in NYC for theater, dance and orchestra students; an 8-day day trip to France with visits to Paris and Normandy; and a 3-day tour of the iconic L.A. highlights. Chaperones travel for free.

4. STUDENTUNIVERSE

The world’s leading travel booking site for students and youth, StudentUniverse has partnered with more than 200 airlines to provide exclusive trips all over the globe for those under 30. A unique pricing structure grants discount rates to large student groups, and a partnership with Flight Central in 2015 ensured students can now take reasonably priced trips to diverse countries such as Hong Kong, India and the United Arab Emirates. Headquartered in Boston, StudentUniverse has expanded into the U.K., Australia and Canada

5. STRAIGHT A TOURS

Straight A Tours is a leader in student group travel based in Orlando, Florida that provides travel arrangements for students to destinations all over the United States. It is also one of Disney’s preferred travel planners for trips to places like Disney World and Disneyland. Student groups in California can experience theme parks and other attractions. Itineraries in Northern and Southern California might include the Golden Gate Bridge, Universal Studios Hollywood and SeaWorld San Diego.

Straight A Tours’ “Festivals at Sea” program, which has been placing student groups on cruises for more than 25 years, includes workshops, classes and presentations that can be arranged with the ships’ staff and crew members on the ship. Cruises include 24-hour dining, spacious staterooms, fun shipboard activities and entertainment, interesting destinations and more.

ACIS , the American Council for International Studies, has been a leader in quality educational travel for middle and high school students since 1978. The company emphasizes Cultural Connections, where students interact with local tour guides and artisans no matter where in the world their trip takes them. Students can look forward to authentic meals that represent local cuisine and hotels close to historic sights instead of long bus trips or catered meals.

With tours across six continents and personalized service from a dedicated international program team, ACIS has established an excellent reputation after some 45 years in the industry. Unique tours include an 10-day Cities of Indochina trip with stops in Bangkok, Siem Reap and Ho Chi Minh City; a Cradle of Civilization trip with in-depth visits to Athens, Sorrento and Rome; and a Mystical Mexico trip full of visits to pyramids, cenotes and an eco-archeological theme park.

7. KALEIDOSCOPE ADVENTURES

With a former educator as its CEO, Kaleidoscope Adventures has become known as a leader in the student travel planning industry with an eye for crafting trips that are uniquely their own. Specializing in trips that are distinctively educational as well as ones focused on performance, sports and festivals, Kaleidoscope Adventures makes student safety a priority with a clearly communicated safety plan included in the process.

Treat your students to an outdoor adventure with a visit to a private working Colorado dude ranch where guided hikes, horseback riding, wellness programs and art workshops are all part of the journey. Or venture to a city where the past co-exists beautifully with the present with a trip to Boston that includes historical adventures (Bunker Hill, Boston Tea Party Ship, Freedom Walking Tour) as well as more contemporary ones (Museum of Science, Blue Man Group).

RECENT STUDENT TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE ARTICLES

WorldStrides Specialty Travel Programs

The worldstrides advantage.

As the Specialty Travel Program for WorldStrides, we are proud of our long history and for successfully traveling over 10,000,000 students throughout the United States and the World. We realize that a successful travel program requires our staff to meet the needs & expectations of the students, the parents, and the educators alike, and we will work hard to develop and deliver the highest quality, affordable and enjoyable travel programs. From the many travel programs we offer, we commit to providing youth enrichment experiences that will broaden your student's horizons, celebrates their achievements and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Please review the specialty travel options below for Celebrations, Enrichment, an affinity group custom travel program, or Sports. We look forward to the privilege of working with you and your group.

Grad Night Tours & Celebration Trips

• Disneyland Grad Nite
• Universal Studios Hollywood Grad Bash
• Universal Studios Orlando Grad Bash
• Universal Studios Jr. Grad Bash
• Six Flags Magic Mountain Grad Nite
• GradTastic at SeaWorld Orlando
• Knott's Berry Farm (SoCal), California's Great America (NorCal), Worlds of Fun (Missouri), Kings Dominion (Virginia), Carowinds (N. Carolina), and more!

Enrichment Trips

• Youth Leadership Programs
• Dance & Drill Group Adventures
• Music Group Adventures
• College Discoveries Tours
• Exchange Student Tours
• Girl Scout Adventures
• California State Educational Tours
• STEM Travel Programs
• San Diego Holiday Bowl

• Cal Bears Fan Travel

Individual Travel Tours

• WorldExplore

WorldStrides Has the Youth Industry’s Highest Credentials and Affiliations

Any business that has been in continuous operations for over 50 years has gained significant knowledge and positive industry experience. WorldStrides has developed the industry’s strongest professional relationships with youth travel suppliers throughout North America. We only work with those youth-friendly companies that value, safety and attention to detail .

$1 Million in Consumer Protection

Founding Member and Certified Student Travel Organization for the Student Youth Travel Association (SYTA)

Appointed by the International Airlines Travel Agent Network (IATA)

Fundraising

Looking for resources on fundraising? WorldStrides is committed to giving every student the opportunity to experience the life-changing experiences that happen on our programs every day. For more information, click here.

Professional and Academic Credit

WorldStrides and its travel divisions are accredited by educational bodies across the country, and we have a dedicated Curriculum and Academics team. We can offer Academic Credit  for students (high school or college preparatory credit) and  Professional Development Hours  for teachers.  See accreditation details.

ATTENTION VALUED REGISTRANTS AND TRAVELERS: Our business hours are Monday - Friday, of 8:30am to 4:00pm. If you would like to email us, please do so 24/7 at [email protected] . Thank you for your communication.

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Looking for cheap student flights ? StudentUniverse UK has got you covered. To access our student deals all you need to do is sign up for a FREE membership so we can verify your student status. There are also plenty of travel deals available to all young people (18-25 year-olds). Wherever in the world you want to fly, StudentUniverse UK can help you get there at the best possible price.

Student Hotels & Hostels

If you’re going to be travelling the world, you’re going to need somewhere to stay while you’re doing it. Booking accommodation with StudentUniverse UK can help students save up to 40% off hotels and hostels, saving you money to have the best possible time on your trip.

Student Tours

You’ve arrived in your dream destination. Now it’s time to get out there and make the most of it! Tours are a great way to experience the best of a country, guided by experts and meeting like-minded travel mates. StudentUniverse UK works with partners all over the world to offer you the best travel tours with huge student and youth discounts and deals.

We Help Students Travel the World

StudentUniverse UK empowers students and young people to travel the world. We offer student discounts, youth fares, and top deals on flights, hotels, tours, groups, and more. We are on a mission to make global experiences possible. We believe that travel is essential to a modern education and that students and young people return enlightened and inspired. Millions of students use our service every year. So whether you’re a student or young person hungry to see as much of the world as possible or simply looking for cheap flights home in the holidays, you’ll find the best deals here at StudentUniverse UK.

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• Moscow Tours

Our 20 Best Moscow Tours of 2022

Join us on an unforgettable tour to Moscow, the capital of Russia. Imagine visiting Red Square, St. Basil’s the Kremlin and more. Moscow is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and one of Russia’s most historical. All of our tours to Moscow are fully customizable and can be adjusted to fit any budget. Our most popular tours are listed below. Please click on the tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page. You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Classic Moscow

This is our most popular Moscow tour that includes all the most prominent sights. You will become acquainted with ancient Russia in the Kremlin, admire Russian art in the Tretyakov Gallery, listen to street musicians as you stroll along the Old Arbat street, and learn about Soviet times on the Moscow Metro tour.

Accommodation

PRIVATE TOUR

A Week in Moscow

This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing.

Weekend in Moscow

This tour is a great way to get acquainted with the capital of Russia if you are short of time. You will see all the main attractions of the city, the most important of which is the Kremlin - the heart of Russia. The tour starts on Friday and can be combined with a business trip.

Group Tour Moscow Break by Intourist

Russia's capital has so much to offer, from the Kremlin and the Metro to the Old Arbat street and the Tretyakov Gallery. Besides these sites, you will also visit a fascinating country estate which today is quite off the beaten path, Gorky Estate, where the Soviet leader Lenin spent the last months of his life.

Kolomenskoye Tour with transport

The history of Kolomenskoye stretches back for centuries. In 1380, Dmitri Donskoi’s army passed through Kolomenskoye on their way to the Kulikovo battlefield, and it was...

Tours by car

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Armory Tour

The Kremlin is truly a fascinating structure, at the same time it is an ancient tower, the city’s former military fortification, a palace, an armory, the sovereign treasury...

Walking tours

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals, Armory, Diamond Fund Tour

Old Arbat walking tour

You will be told of the street’s interesting history and view the street’s artisan culture. You will also have the opportunity to view and purchase souvenirs from the...

Tour to Sergiev Posad with transport

Considered by some to be the Russian Vatican, Sergiev Posad is the temporary residence of the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Trinity St. Sergius Monastery (Lavra)...

Tour to Kuskovo with transport

The Kuskovo Estate often called the Moscow Versailles due to its perfectly preserved French park, is an example of an 18th century, luxurious Moscow summer residence. Its history...

Tour to Tsaritsyno with transport

The Tsaritsyno Estate is located in the southern part of Moscow. The estate was constructed for Catherine the Great by the Russian architects Bazhenov and Kazakov in a romantic...

Moscow Metro and Old Arbat Tour

The Moscow Metro is one of the largest and most grandly built metro systems in the world. It was meant to be a showcase of the Soviet Union’s achievements for both the Russians...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion and vodka tasting)

Vodka is an important component of Russian life, an element of national identity and everyday culture. We invite you to visit the Vodka Museum and feel the atmosphere of long-gone...

Mikhail Bulgakov Apartment Museum

This apartment museum located close to Patriarch Ponds became the prototype of the "bad apartment" described in the novel "The Master and Margarita." Currently the museum's...

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Diamond Fund Tour

The State Museum of Lev Tolstoy Tour

Take this opportunity to learn more about the Russian writer Lev Tolstoy. During the visit to the museum you will see part of a vast collection of exhibits connected to Tolstoy...

Novodevichy Convent Tour with transport

Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure...

City Tour with Visit to St. Basils & Red Sq. with transport

Panoramic City Tour. This Moscow tour is a great start to your trip and the best way to get acquainted with many of the city’s major highlights. Our professional guide will...

City Tour of Moscow

Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous...

Moscow Metro walking tour

Kremlin, Red Square and Cathedrals Tour

KGB Tour with transport

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to...

Soviet and Post-Soviet Moscow Tour

The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened...

Tretyakov State Gallery Tour

This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and...

Jewish Heritage of Moscow Tour

This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion only)

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

Tours to Moscow

Our Moscow tours are land only meaning that you arrange your own air travel to Russia and our expert staff meets you at the airport and handles everything else from there. Our online Airline Ticket booking system offers some of the most competitive rates to Russia available on the web so if you need tickets, please visit our Russian air ticket center . Rest assured that you will be taken great care of on one of our Moscow tours. Express to Russia has a fully staffed office in Moscow that will help to make your visit fun, informative and unforgettable. Please remember that of all these tours are private and can be adjusted to your taste. You can add, replace or skip some sights; you can add more days to the package or cut the tour short. Our specialists will be glad to help you create the tour of your dreams!

Moscow, a City Like No Other

Moscow is Russia’s largest city with a population of between 12 and 13 million. It is also Europe’s largest city and when you visit Moscow, you can feel it. The layout and architecture of the city is eclectic, ranging from crooked, ancient streets and alleyways to wide, bustling boulevards, from medieval churches to Stalin skyscrapers and to modern, glass buildings towering over everything and of course in the center of it all is the Kremlin and the magnificent Red Square. Moscow is also home to a fantastic, efficient and very beautiful metro system – each station having its own special design. In fact, Express to Russia’s Moscow metro tours and excursions are some of our most popular attractions that we offer. On our Moscow tours, you will see this and more.

Moscow Tours centering on Russian History

Moscow has a long and interesting history and has been the capital of Russia in many of its different iterations – capital of the Grand Duchy of Moscow , the Russian Empire and of course the Soviet Union (who could ever forget the Soviet Union?). Moscow, was founded in the 12th century by Prince Yuri Dolgaruki (Yuri of the long arms – he really did have long arms!). From that time on, it was home to the Russian Tsars until Peter the Great moved the capital to St. Petersburg in 1703. The city has survived invasions and sieges from the Mongols, the Tartars, the Poles, Lithuanians and Napoleon but has always persevered. Our Moscow tours will enlighten you on this great history and give you insights into Muscovites and their unique culture. Our Moscow tours show you what the city is like today but also brings to life the past. Moscow never seems to sleep and is bursting with energy. A Moscow tour with Express to Russia is truly the best way of getting to know Russia’s largest and most vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

What is the best time to visit moscow.

Any time of year is fine depending on what you plan to do. Summertime is pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city and its vibrant atmosphere, but Moscow will be much busier and accommodation is more expensive. Winter can be quite cold but beautiful nonetheless, and this is unproblematic if you intend to spend most of your trip in museums and galleries. There are also various festivals and events organised throughout the year. For more information about the best time to visit, read our guide

How many days are enough in Moscow?

If you plan your itinerary strategically and aren’t averse to a packed schedule, you can cover Moscow’s main sights over a long weekend. Most popular attractions are in the city centre, and the Moscow Metro allows you to cover much ground in a small amount of time. Ensure that your accommodation is fairly central and book tickets in advance, so that you can make the most of your days. For an informative and well-organised day out, check out our Moscow day tours with options to suit all interests.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

As Russia’s capital city, tourists are well accommodated in Moscow. There should be English-speaking staff in restaurants, bars, hotels, shops and attractions in tourist hotspots, and there are also English-speaking tourist police. Transport services have English translations on their maps and English announcements via intercom; alternatively, order taxis from the Yandex Taxi app (Russian Uber), though it’s unlikely that your taxi driver will speak English. If you get stuck and cannot communicate, it’s fine to use Google Translate.

Is it safe to travel to Moscow?

It is no less safe to travel to Moscow than to any European city if you exercise common sense and look after your belongings. As with every city some regions can be more unsavoury than others, but no tourist attractions are located there. The traffic in Moscow is notorious, so exercise caution when crossing roads. Do not take unlicensed taxis; book in advance or take public transport, which is widespread and perfectly safe. If you encounter any problems, look for the special tourist police who can help you. For more information, read our guide about staying safe in Russia .

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• Saint Petersburg
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Visit Moscow Tours

Saint Petersburg - Karelia 9 days - 8 nights

Moscow - Saint Petersburg tour package 8 days/7 nights

Moscow - saint petersburg 5 days/4 nights.

Moscow - Saint Petersburg 6 days/5 nights

Sochi tour 8 days/7 nights

Altai tour package 11 days/10 nights

Murmansk 4 days/3 nights

Happy New Year tour package- best price 8 days/7 nights

Baikal tour package 7 days/6 nights

Christmas tour package- best price 5 days/4 nights

Moscow tour package 4 days/3 nights.

Special Winter Edition Tour 8 days/7 nights

Saint Peterburg tour package 4 days/3 nights

Moscow-Kazan-Saint Petersburg 9 days/8 nights

Moscow-Suzdal-Saint Petersburg 9 days/8 nights

Moscow-Saint Peterburg tour package 8 days/7 nights BEST DEAL (15th of MAY-22d of MAY only)

Moscow-sochi tour package 6 days/5 nights.

Moscow - Velikiy Novgorod - Saint Petersburg tour package 9 days/8 nights

Moscow-Saint Petersburg-Baikal lake 14 days/13 nights

Moscow-Saint Petersburg-Sochi tour package 10 days/9 nights

Moscow-Altai tour package 14 days/13 nights

Moscow-Murmansk-Saint Petersburg 11 days/10 nights

Saint Petersburg - Karelia 8 days/7 nights

Moscow tour package 5 days/4 nights including tank riding and Stalin Bunker visit

Moscow-Saint Petersburg tour package 7 days/6 nights including tank riding and Stalin Bunker visit

Magic Ice of Baikal Lake - 7 days / 6 nights

SPA tour package Grozny (Chechnya) 4 days - 3 nights

Hiking tour package Dagestan 5 days - 4 nights

Suzdal and Vladimir Tour

Moscow Kremlin Tour

River Cruise Tour

Driving Tour around Saint Petersburg

Peterhof Tour

Moscow Driving Tour

Moscow in 1 Day (Walking tour)

Welcome to visit moscow tours.

We provide authentic, informative and memorable tour packages and city tours, at very competitive prices. Visit Moscow Tours are available not only in Moscow, but also in other cities: Saint Petersburg, Kazan, Suzdal and Sergiev Posad.  We also organise customised individual programs tailored just for you.

Our guests come in large groups, small private groups, as couples or as single travellers. We take care of and treat our guests with respect in a friendly and warm family environment. We show people our beautiful cities with passion and deep knowledge of their history, culture and traditions.

Our guides are extremely hospitable, helpful and well-informed. They are simply the best because only by providing the best services can we make the world fall in love with Russia. And we are very happy when our guests say that they will definitely come back to Russia and that they will tell all their friends how great Russia is! That is what inspires us to put even more dedication and hard work into our tours, knowing that what we do is positive and meaningful.

Our classic tours include tours of Moscow and Saint Petersburg, two main Russian cities.

Moscow is a big and busy  megalopolis and Russia’s capital city, where more than 12 million people live and work. Our capital city is happening place; it is mysterious, elegant, luxurious, fashionable, clean and bright, with its unique legends, traditions and events. It is with great pride that we show the Red Square and the Kremlin, our Underground and Tretyakovskaya Gallery, among other stunning attractions.

Saint Petersburg is our second capital,  the second largest city in the Russian Federation. This wonderful city has a strong and lively aristocratic spirit, uniquely Russian royal architecture, magnificent museums and theatres. Saint Petersburg bears the royal heritage of Russia, which can be felt in its air, its streets, parks, monuments, museums and citizens.  In Saint Petersburg tours, we will take you to the Hermitage, Peter and Paul Fortress, Faberge Museum and Orthodox Cathedrals. We’re sure you will love it!

If you have a few more days to spare, venture into the dreamy Russian countryside in Suzdal or Sergiev Posad. Suzdal is a small town with a population of about ten thousand people, situated on less than 15 square kilometres. This tiny area is home to 53 historic cathedrals, five monasteries and a kremlin. Church domes are visible like mushrooms from anywhere and everywhere in the town like in a fairy tale. No wonder Suzdal is called the ‘Town Museum”.  It is definitely worth visiting!

Just try any of Visit Moscow Tours’ tour packages or any individual city tour, and we promise that you will want to come back to Russia again.  Russia is huge with countless amazing places to visit. There are so many unique experiences to be had and energies to be felt that one tour is definitely not enough to explore this vast land. It is also a very safe destination to travel, and we have a tradition of warm hospitality. Our people adore and take care of visitors as our own guests, and even if they do not know your language very well, they still try to be helpful and hospitable.

Our guides will show you the most interesting attractions and historical places, taking you on a journey to the past to enjoy stories of medieval times, the Romanov monarchy, the Soviet Era. And of course, we will show you the contemporary life of our country through authentic local experiences.

We look forward to meeting you soon!

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What It’s Like To Be an International Student in Moscow?

• December 4, 2021

If you have plans to study in Moscow, knowing a bit about the city can help manage your expectations. Plus, it gives you useful knowledge as an international student in the city.

You may be wondering if being a student in Moscow is any different from other Russian cities or any study destinations for that matter. To satisfy your curiosity, we listed out a couple of key things you should know.

Top-Tier STEM Programs

If you’re pursuing a STEM degree in Russia, you’re in for premium education. Big investments go into Russian Universities to support these programs with world-class facilities and research.

Apart from these facilities, faculty members are also a delight to learn from with their extensive knowledge. It’s no wonder why the country produced 31 Nobel Prize winners.

Fast and Efficient Public Transportation System

Mass transit will play a big role in your travels around Moscow. Fortunately, the city’s mass transportation system experienced transformative changes, making it more comfortable for passengers. 

You can take the metro, buses, trams, or taxis depending on where you’re going or how fast you want to get there. Study our guide to Moscow’s transportation system to learn more.

Hub of Innovation

Moscow universities alone are proof of how well-invested the Russians are in their science education. For example, the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN) has training simulation centers. Some medical students use these facilities for technical practice and communicating with patients.

RUDN also has a Mission Control Center for students of space technology. This center even gets the same live feed as Russia’s space agency!

Mouth-Watering Russian Cuisine

As the capital city of Russia, Moscow is brimming with places that offer delicious Russian food . There are mid-range restaurants, cafes and food parks you can visit for your mini food trips.

Some of the best dishes you can try are Pelmeni, Borscht, and Blini. You can also try street food like Pirozhki or take a bite of Shashlik, which is the Russians’ take on Kebabs.

Language Barrier Won’t Be a Problem

Most Russians don’t speak English, but in the university setting, your English skills will serve you well. Most faculty members can converse well in English.

Apart from this,  there’s also a wide selection of English-taught courses you can look into. Plus, you’ll most likely take a one-year Russian preparatory course first before your school starts.

There are Many Places to See

As an international student in Moscow, you’ll love the limitless opportunity to travel. The best part is most of these places are also budget-friendly. 

You can take a trip to the Red Square or visit Bunker 42. If you need more options, see our list of budget-friendly places in Moscow for international students.

Now that you have an idea of what it’s like to be an international student in Moscow, learn more about your study destination by checking out more articles  here at MSM Unify. You May Also like Things You Can Do in Moscow on a Budget

Budget-Friendly Places in Moscow

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I'm a college student studying abroad. I'm shocked at how many luxury trips my classmates take.

• I was excited to study abroad in Florence and to take small, cheap trips while abroad.
• My classmates are not traveling cheaply; they are flying to luxury places like Dubai and the Alps.
• I wonder if they are just doing it for social media, but I'm still enjoying my time abroad.

As a third-year college student attending Colorado State University in Fort Collins, I jumped at the chance to study abroad . Trading in a semester of snow and freezing temperatures for beautiful architecture and centuries-old art was a no-brainer.

I was so excited that I filled out the application to study in Florence nearly a year before the day I would depart. Four months in Florence, Italy, was comparable to the cost of a semester at my state school . After talking to my parents and counselor, I believed the cultural experience and travel opportunities were worth it.

I knew that when I arrived, I would have to budget when traveling —doing so through communal hostel stays and low-cost airlines. I was prepared for overstuffed backpacks and bus tickets; upon arrival, though, it became clear that pinching pennies was not on everyone's agenda.

The other students are jet-setting every weekend to expensive locations

The first few days in Florence were comparable to a freshman welcome week. The time was full of activities, including hikes, dinners, and other various ventures to get students to meet one another. My roommates and I attended one of the dinners to make connections before classes began.

Standing among groups of strangers , I expected to converse about majors and hometowns; however, I witnessed a quiet competition between students on who would be going to the most places in the coming months.

Comments such as "I have every weekend planned and booked" or "I would go, but I've already been" were stacked on top of one another as my peers attempted to one-up each other. At this time, I had a total of zero trips planned. When caught in these conversations, I felt oddly pressured to also fill my calendar each weekend, accompanied by the feeling of stress due to not being able to afford travel every five days. I feared I would be left behind.

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I've been here for over two months, and this conversation hasn't ended. Every Monday, I hear whispers about where my peers had jet-setted to days before. Places like Dubai and Morocco have been mentioned, leaving me just as shocked as that first dinner. I knew studying abroad was a privilege before getting here, but "a weekend in Dubai " was not what I expected.

Nobody is 'roughing it' like I thought they would be

My spring break was only three weeks into the start of the semester, and this was when I decided to take my first trip. When booking, I scoured sites, such as KAYAK and Skyscanner, but plane tickets and hotels were still extremely pricey. Eventually, my roommates and I decided to spend five days in Prague after finding affordable tickets on Ryanair. One of the greatest appeals of Prague was it was walkable, cheap, and had a good nightlife — my top three requirements as a traveling college student.

My three roommates and I booked a studio apartment for around $100 each for a total of five nights. It took us two trains, one bus, a plane, and some walking to get there, but the price was right. I was excited for the following week and felt satisfied with our trip and housing accommodations.

That was until I scrolled through Instagram to see my peers skiing in the Alps and skydiving in Copenhagen. It was almost unbelievable that the people I attend classes with could afford this style of travel while my school backpack was stuffed with a week's worth of clothes cause I opted out of the carry-on baggage fee Ryanair required.

I thought everyone at this stage made sacrifices when traveling, but I was mostly wrong.

I'm convinced people are traveling for the sake of their Instagram

I have a hard time wrapping my head around the fact that anyone can experience a new country in the span of 48 hours.

I do know, however, that people are really good at making their time away look like the best time ever on my Instagram feed . It's as if they're collecting comments like postcards or putting another notch in their belts by showing one another how many stamps they have accumulated in their passports.

Traveling while studying abroad is a competitive sport with a large price tag that no one told me to train for.

I've learned that such comparisons defeat the purpose of traveling. Maybe I haven't flown on the best airlines or stayed in an oceanfront villa, but my experiences abroad have been enriching and allowed me to engage with other cultures. Best of all? I didn't have to spend much money, and my Instagram still looks good.

Watch: Marriott International's Tina Edmundson tells Insider that the travel mindset has changed since the pandemic

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At college of communication & information, cci students travel to atlanta for networking trip.

In late April, nine College of Communication and Information (CCI) students traveled to Atlanta, Georgia, to network with alumni, tour company facilities, and learn about the technology industry at five major companies.

Additionally, the students visited General Motors IT Innovation Center, Home Depot’s Orange Works Innovation Center, and Equifax. They also attended a networking dinner where they met over 20 CCI alumni.  At GM, they were hosted by 5 CCI alumni, and at Equifax, they met with Jermaine Washington Jr. (B.S. ‘15) and Madison Betsill Short (B.S. ‘17).

“I learned more about how to strategically break into the field I want to go into through the network we had the opportunity to tap into,” said School of Information (iSchool) student Ashari Penerton. “I also may have gotten swayed into moving to Atlanta after graduation.”

iSchool senior Bella Bozied emphasized the appreciation the group of students had for Associate Dean Ebe Randeree, the organizer of this trip. “We were able to visit an array of IT-centered companies made up of so many people holding different roles. We were able to connect with Software Engineers, Scrum Masters, Project Managers, Product Owners, and more. Networking can seem daunting, but everyone I was able to speak with during the trip provided so much advice!”  

Software engineer at General Motors and iSchool alumna Kelly Newbrough (B.S. ‘21) said, “It was such a fulfilling and exciting experience getting to connect with the FSU CCI students. As a student, I always loved and appreciated these trips, and it’s a little surreal getting to be on the other side. I can’t wait to see how they all utilize the information they gained and see them succeed.”

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The UN nuclear watchdog chief travels to Iran as its monitoring remains hampered

The Associated Press

May 6, 2024, 10:19 AM

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JERUSALEM (AP) — The head of the United Nations’ atomic watchdog traveled Monday to Iran, where his agency faces increasing difficulty in monitoring the Islamic Republic’s rapidly advancing nuclear program as tensions remain high in the wider Middle East over the Israel-Hamas war .

Rafael Mariano Grossi already has warned Tehran has enough uranium enriched to near-weapons-grade levels to make “several” nuclear bombs if it chose to do so. He has acknowledged the agency can’t guarantee that none of Iran’s centrifuges may have been peeled away for clandestine enrichment .

Those challenges now find themselves entangled in attacks between Israel and Iran, with the city of Isfahan apparently coming under Israeli fire in recent weeks despite it being surrounded by sensitive nuclear sites. Grossi is likely to attend an Iranian nuclear conference there while on his two-day trip to Iran.

In Tehran, Grossi and Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian shook hands in front of journalists before going into a meeting Monday.

Grossi in a post on the social platform X after the meeting described proposing “a set of concrete practical measures for the revitalization” of a previous plan reached with Iran last year over inspections.

That 2023 statement included a pledge by Iran to resolve questions around sites where inspectors have questions about possible undeclared nuclear activity and Iran allowing the IAEA to “implement further appropriate verification and monitoring activities.” Grossi did not elaborate on the measures he proposed.

Grossi will travel to Isfahan on Tuesday before heading back to Vienna, where he plans to give an update to journalists.

Tensions have grown between Iran and the IAEA since then-President Donald Trump in 2018 unilaterally withdraw America from Tehran’s nuclear deal with world powers. Since then, Iran has abandoned all limits the deal put on its program and enriches uranium to 60% purity — near weapons-grade levels of 90%.

IAEA surveillance cameras have been disrupted, while Iran has barred some of the agency’s most experienced inspectors .

Meanwhile, Iranian officials have increasingly threatened they could pursue atomic weapons.

“For us, making the atomic bomb is easier than not building atomic bomb,” said Mahmoud Reza Aghamiri, the chancellor of Tehran Shahid Beheshti University and a specialist in nuclear physics.

Iranian media quoted Aghamiri acknowledging Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had previously said making an atomic bomb is forbidden.

“But if his fatwa and viewpoint is changed, we have ability to build atomic bomb, too,” Aghamiri added.

Aghamiri’s comments follow a drumroll of others by Iranian lawmakers, those in its paramilitary Revolutionary Guard and a former head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran suggesting Tehran could build the bomb.

Iranian diplomats for years have pointed to Khamenei’s preachings as a binding fatwa, or religious edict, that Iran wouldn’t build an atomic bomb.

“We do not need nuclear bombs. We have no intention of using a nuclear bomb,” Khamenei said in a November 2006 speech, according to a transcript from his office. “We do not claim to dominate the world, like the Americans, we do not want to dominate the world by force and need a nuclear bomb. Our nuclear bomb and explosive power is our faith.”

But such edicts aren’t written in stone. Khamenei’s predecessor, Grand Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, issued fatwas that revised his own earlier pronouncements after he took power following the 1979 Islamic Revolution. And anyone who would follow the 85-year-old Khamenei as the country’s supreme leader could make his own fatwas revising those previously issued.

U.S. intelligence agencies and the IAEA say Iran had an organized military nuclear program up until 2003. The latest American intelligence community assessment says Iran “is not currently undertaking the key nuclear weapons-development activities necessary to produce a testable nuclear device.”

At the Isfahan conference Monday, Mohammed Eslami of Iran’s civilian nuclear arm insisted that cooperation with the IAEA and adherence to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty “tops the policies and strategy of the Islamic Republic” — despite the impeded inspections and threats to build an atomic weapon.

“We have 22% of global inspections,” Eslami said at one point. “This amount of inspection has never been done in a country throughout history.”

Meanwhile, tensions between Iran and Israel have hit a new high. Tehran launched an unprecedented drone-and-missile attack on Israel after years of a shadow war between the two countries reached a climax with Israel’s apparent attack on an Iranian consular building in Syria killed two Iranian generals and others.

Israel’s own nuclear weapons program , widely known by experts though never acknowledged by the country, didn’t deter Iran’s assault. And now experts increasingly suggest Iran could pursue the bomb itself after a major attack on it.

“With a tiny open attack on Iranian soil by the U.S. and Israel, I believe Iran will conduct its first atomic test,” analyst Saeed Leilaz said in April.

Associated Press writer Nasser Karimi in Tehran, Iran, contributed to this report.

Copyright © 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.

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