We were very fortunate to have a superb guide: Irina Kasantseva. She was highly informative about the history of the places we visited, but also added a number of unusual anecdotes; for example Catherine II served her guests many culinary delights, including a dish concocted from nightingales' tongues. She answered our many questions with patience and knowledge. Her manner was engaging yet refined, and she was always willing to adjust to whatever our interests were. We asked to have some time together just to stroll on our own in the park, so she took the chance to bring her car to the gate to be ready for us. Her driving was calm and professional, and we felt very comfortable in her car. She added special stops such as the palace where Czar Nicholas and his family had been confined, which we would not have seen without her. We learned so much from Irina. She really made the tour worthwhile because of engaging moments. For example, she helped us buy freshly picked raspberries!

Pick up was on time in a good, comfortable people carrier. The tour guide was extremely knowledgeable as she came from the area and gave us a history lesson both on the drive there and back, pointing out all the important buildings and statues which I thought was great. The tour of both Palaces and gardens was wonderful, our guide also told us the local legends as well as telling us the stories behind behind every room. I don’t usually do tours, preferring to muddle through myself but I would recommend this tour without hesitation.

Collected form hotel on time and driven to venue. During the journey, the guide chatted to us and gave interesting information about St Petersburg and Russia generally. On arrival at the venue we received VIP treatment with fast track entry. Being a group of three only, we were able to move easily through the rooms of the palace, taking photos en route in recommended places. Delivered safely back to hotel in time for dinner! A wonderful afternoon!

Polina was a great guide explaining with perfect English the highlights about Pushkin, Catherine and Pavlovsky Palace. She is very knowledgeable regarding St Petersburg and gave us lots of tips and total support on the way back dropping us anywhere we wanted in the city centre. I highly recommend this tour because the price is fair, in a small group (we were only two people) and the quality of the guide is excellent.

Great way to see the two palaces with a knowledgeable and friendly guide. It saved having to work out how to get there using public transport and the entrance fees are included. Our guide spoke excellent English and was very informative without overloading us with information. She was also happy to leave us to wander around in the grounds at Pavlovsk