Yaroslavl, Russia

Museum of Music and Time: This private collection (amassed by magician John Mostoslavsky) of old musical instruments, bells, gramophones, and antique clocks is a delight to uncover.

Farmers Market: Some shore excursions include a tour through a local covered market to shop for souvenirs and to sample fresh produce; it's an authentic way to brush elbows with locals making their rounds.

Church of Elijah the Prophet: Set in the city center, this 17th-century church is Yaroslavl's star attraction, thanks to its photogenic green domes, ornamental belfry, and interiors filled with impressive, centuries-old religious frescoes.

Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Savior: This fortified monastery, founded in the 1100s, houses several churches and a bell tower that were constructed in the 16th and 17th centuries, marking some of the oldest architecture in the city.

History Buffs: With a millennium of history to cover, and a well-preserved old town that will have you feeling like a time traveler, Yaroslavl promises generous glimpses into the past.

No Time to Make Curtain: The Volkov Theatre, with roots dating to 1750, is a cultural icon for the city and Russia; catching a performance here proposes a great treat, though most ships will be long gone before the evening show begins.