You stop first in Vladimir to see the Golden Gate and the twelfth-century Dormition Cathedral, then continue about 35 km to Suzdal to walk its kremlin and the banks of the Kamenka and visit the museum of wooden architecture. The white monuments of both towns have been on UNESCO's list since 1992.

The road from Moscow takes about three hours each way, so we suggest a night in Suzdal if you like quiet places.