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Saint Petersburg, Russia

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A city of canals and cathedrals, palaces and terraces, St. Petersburg is unmatched in its splendor. Centered upon the banks of the River Neva, it is the northernmost of the great cities of Russia, teaming with over 4 million inhabitants. Its lavish palaces, lush parks, hundreds of bridges, and world-class museums make it one of the Top 25 Travel Destinations in the World according to the TripAdvisor readers' poll. Seeing it at least once in a lifetime is on the bucket list of every globetrotter. And we will be happy to help you discover the best of St. Petersburg!

Reasons to travel to St. Petersburg

Since Peter the Great moved the seat of his young empire from Moscow to the shores of the Baltic Sea, St. Petersburg has been recognized internationally as a crown jewel of capitals. Its architects and planners drew from the majesty of Europe's most breathtaking sites, taking inspiration from the canals of Venice, the Palace of Versailles, the cathedrals of Rome, the streets of Amsterdam, and imbued it all with the aura of Vienna. These aspects have joined together to create a city of unspeakable perfection. However, an abundance of historic sights is not the only thing that attracts thousands of visitors here. St. Petersburg tourism also meets the highest world standards, and you will be able to choose not just good but 'one-of-a-kind' hotels, dine at fabulous restaurants and see world-class theater performances.

Main tourist attractions

In the heart of the city stands the Winter Palace one of the must-sees for your St. Petersburg itinerary. Its front faces Palace Square with its looming Alexander Column, a monolith of Finnish red granite erected to celebrate the victory of Tsar Alexander I over Napoleon Bonaparte. To the rear of the palace, itself a monument to "the might and power of Imperial Russia", is the Palace Embankment on the Neva. Just across the river stands the Peter and Paul Fortress , with its crenelated walls designed to hold the guns that would defend the city from water attacks. A relatively small portion of the Winter Palace houses the world-famous Hermitage Museum , that obtains the biggest collection of Russian art in the world - more than 3 million items. The Hermitage originated as the private art collection of Catherine the Great, with hundreds of paintings now displayed in the Palace's halls. Indeed, many of these halls are works of art themselves.

Another famous sight, not far from the Winter Palace, is St. Isaac's Cathedral . The largest Orthodox cathedral in the world, it was built in a severe classic Roman style (strongly favored by Tsar Alexander I) over the span of 40 years. When it was completed in 1848, the main dome rivaled that of the Pantheon of Paris and St. Paul’s Cathedral in London, and as with these other great domed structures, it served as the inspiration for today’s dome on the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. (completed in 1866). The cathedral’s cupolas are decorated with 100 kilograms of pure gold.

A few blocks from the Palace Square, along the Griboedov Canal, stands what appears to be something of an answer to Moscow's Cathedral of St. Basil's, the Church of the Savior on Spilt Blood . Its name came from the murder of Tsar Alexander II by terrorists. Despite his efforts to reform and liberalize Russia, Alexander was attacked by three anarchists carrying bombs, the second of which succeeded in killing him. The church was erected by his son, Tsar Alexander III, on the assassination site, just a short walk from the bustling thoroughfare of Nevsky Prospect.

The city center contains a number of beautiful sights, but the outskirts contain just as many wonders, the most visited being  Tsarskoe Selo . After evicting the Swedes from the area, Tsar Peter the Great gave over to his loyal friend Alexander Menshikov the old manor of Sarishoff. Menshikov constructed there a great palace, which he, in turn, gave over to Peter's wife, Catherine I, whose rise from childhood as an orphaned Polish peasant to Empress of Russia is said to have been a story as great as that of the rise of her husband. The resulting ornate Catherine Palace and beautiful Catherine Park, located in the Tsar's Village in the suburb of Pushkin, are named for her. This is a truly remarkable piece of Russia's Imperial heritage and the absolute majority of our trips to St. Petersburg take you there.

There are a number of other beautiful palaces built on the Baltic Sea coast, including Oranienbaum (another of Menshikov's creations) and Peter the Great's most famous imperial residence, Peterhof . The latter was at first to serve merely as a gateway for the Tsar for trips proposed into Europe - the harbor of St. Petersburg was yet to be developed, and ships were obliged to anchor off Kotlin Island, today's Kronstadt, located within sight of the landing area. Later, he created a summer palace at this location that he called "Monplaisir", or "My Pleasure". This palace was later decorated with gardens and fountains, the greatest of which was the Grand Cascade. By the time it was finished by Catherine the Great, it had been transformed into what is generally regarded today as "the Russian Versailles".

Best time to visit Saint Petersburg

St. Petersburg, or "Peter" as it is often shortened, is glorious in the summer, particularly when the White Nights (the nightlong twilight that takes place for a few weeks on either side of the summer solstice) transforms the Neva embankments into one of the world’s longest outdoor parties. For St. Petersburg travel warm summer months from May to August are the busiest season. But the city is also a beautiful winter destination. The best way to travel to St. Petersburg is with one of our package tours or St. Petersburg excursions. We often suggest to enhance your Saint Petersburg travel experiences with an extension to one of the Baltic states or combine it with a Moscow tour. Contact our helpful specialists for more information either browse Russia trip planner to explore all of the possible destinations.

Best Things to Do in St. Petersburg

• Visit the gem of St. Petersburg, the glorious Hermitage Museum
• View the drawing of the bridges at night
• Stop by the burial grounds of Russian tsars in the Peter and Paul Fortress
• Get picture-perfect panorama views of the city from St. Isaac's Cathedral
• Save some time for day trips to iconic palatial treasures of Catherine's Palace and Peterhof

Top Attractions in Saint Petersburg

Catherine's Palace aka Tsarskoye Selo is the luxury summer residence of tsars built by Catherine I. 

The Savior on Spilled Blood stands out in the St. Petersburg skyline with its 5 unique colorful onion-domes.

The Peter and Paul Fortress and its bell-tower symbolize the might and power of Russia.

Often called "the Russian Versailles", Peterhof Palace and park complex is a luxurious beauty of Imperial Russia.

The most iconic golden dome of Russia and a landmark of over 150 years of St. Petersburg history.

The world-famous Hermitage Museum is the home to the largest collection of paintings in the world.

The mysterious and stunning Yusupov Palace stands on River Moyka's bank in the heart of St. Petersburg.

All Attractions in Saint Petersburg

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in St. Petersburg, Russia

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Moscow might be Russia's most modern, cosmopolitan city, but St. Petersburg is the cultural and historical heart of the country . Home to the Hermitage, one of the largest and most stunning art museums in the world, surrounded by canals, and home to beautiful white nights (when the sun never sets in summer), St. Petersburg is regal and inspiring.

First-time visitors should start at the Hermitage Museum -a museum so large, it is literally impossible to see it all in one day -and the beautiful Nevsky Avenue, flanked by opulent restaurants, churches, and palaces, and a great place for people watching. The Peterhof Palace Complex requires a day trip out of town, but it's a must-see and one of the highlights of a trip to St. Petersburg.

Whether you already know what to do when visiting or are looking for more ideas on how to spend your time, take a look at our list of top tourist attractions in St. Petersburg.

1. State Hermitage Museum

2. peter and paul fortress, 3. palace square, 4. peterhof palace, 5. eliseyev emporium, 6. vasilyevsky island, 7. nevsky avenue, 8. church of the savior on spilled blood, 9. mariinsky theater, 10. rivers and canals, 11. cruiser aurora, 12. saint isaac's cathedral, where to stay in st. petersburg, russia for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in st. petersburg, russia.

Founded when Empress Catherine the Great started acquiring works of art in the late 1700s, the museum didn't officially open to the public until 1852. Today, the Hermitage is the second-largest art museum in the world after the Louvre, and it's home to a collection of over three million items.

The Hermitage technically occupies six buildings, although the main part of the museum (and the building most people associate with the museum) is housed in the Winter Palace, which served as the home of the Russian emperors until 1917, and it's a massive structure with 1,500 rooms.

In addition to French Neoclassical and Impressionist art, Flemish Baroque and Italian Renaissance exhibits, the museum also holds an impressive collection of Russian art from the 11th to 19th centuries, a sizable 19th-century Egyptian antiquity collection, and a hall showcasing prehistoric art. The Hermitage has the largest collection of paintings in the world, spanning many countries and centuries.

The Peter and Paul Fortress was originally a fortified area meant to protect the state from foreign attacks. It was constructed in 1703 and then extended and modified for the following four decades. While the fortress never saw any actual combat, it still has a dark story behind it, as it served as a prison and execution quarters during the Bolshevik revolution in the early 20 th century. Today, it's part of the State Museum of the History of St. Petersburg.

Within the walls of the fortress and surrounded by beautiful gardens and stone paths, there are several buildings. Perhaps the best known is the 18 th -century Peter and Paul Cathedral , the final resting place of Russian czars. Prison cells, a city museum, and the Saint Petersburg Mint building (founded in 1724 to manufacture coins and still in operation) are also located within the walls of the fortress.

St. Petersburg's main city square is a massive open public space right in front of the Winter Palace. The Alexander Column , built in the 1830s of a single piece of red granite, stands 47 meters tall at the center of the square. It was commissioned by Alexander I to commemorate the victory against Napoleon.

Many major events in Soviet/Russian history have taken place right on the square-Tsar Alexander II was shot here in 1879, and Bolshevik troops started the Revolution here in 1917 by storming the Winter Palace, where the royalty lived. Since then, the square has also been used for marches and demonstrations, from military parades to celebrate Victory Day (which marks the end of WWII) to New Year's Eve celebrations.

Located less than 30 kilometers from central St. Petersburg, the 18 th -century Peterhof Palace complex consists of a series of buildings, several formal gardens, and a total of 173 fountains fed by underground springs. Designed in the style of the Palace of Versailles , Peterhof is best known for its "Grand Cascade," which consists of 64 fountains located on a series of terraces outside the main entrance of the palace.

The opulence of the palace itself can be discovered through a guided tour. It features 30 rooms decorated with truly imposing gold colors, lots of marble, and items brought back from Asia mixing in with Baroque-style fireplaces and giant mirrors. Although it's possible to take a bus to get here, you can also catch a boat from St. Petersburg. The ride takes 45 minutes on the Neva River and offers great views of the shoreline along the way.

When the Eliseyev Emporium building was inaugurated in 1903, it was one of the most luxurious structures of its time. This might not be the case anymore, but the Art Nouveau details, stained-glass windows, crystal and metal candelabra, and hand-painted wall patterns are still quite impressive. The main attraction here, however, is the window displays, which feature moving puppets representing characters from The Nutcracker .

Today, this retail complex focuses mainly on food, with the most famous stop inside being the Eliseevy Merchants' Shop , Russia's oldest confectionery shop, which also sells high-end meats, spices, and dressings. The Eliseyev Emporium is also home to a unique homemade ice-cream shop selling flavors such as spicy basic and strawberry, green tea with jasmine, and "tender violet." Beautiful, hand-carved wooden souvenirs of traditional figures from Russian folktales are also available here.

Located just across the river from the city center and the Winter Palace and connected to the mainland by two bridges and a metro line, this small island is home to a number of landmarks and beautiful parks-including a Museum of Electrical Transport; the Peter the Great Museum of Anthropology and Ethnography; the Old Saint Petersburg Stock Exchange; and the Baroque Menshikov Palace, which serves as a branch of the Heritage Museum and holds mainly 17 th -century Russian art.

The Russian Academy of Sciences has several branches on the island, as well-and visitors might particularly appreciate visiting the Institute of Russian Literature , which holds original manuscripts of some of Russian's most famous writers, including beloved poet Alexander Pushkin.

Named after the Alexander Nevsky Lavra monastery that sits on this same street, the 4.5-kilometer-long Nevsky Prospect (or Avenue) is the heart of St. Petersburg. Home to the 18 th -century Great Gostiny Dvor, one of the oldest shopping arcades in the world, Nevsky Avenue also hosts lots of high-end shops, fancy restaurants, and luxury hotels.

Nevsky Prospect is all about opulent architecture -here, palaces and churches stand side by side, including the Late Baroque Stroganov Palace; the early 19 th -century Kazan Cathedral; and the Russian National Library, housed in a building dating back to the 1700s.

Even if you don't plan on doing any shopping here, the lights and atmosphere of this avenue are still worth a visit. Along the way, you'll find street artists; an original movie theater dating back to 1913; and the Anichkov Bridge, which was seriously damaged during WWII and restored without removing traces of shell damage from Nazi guns as a reminder of what happened here.

One of the most beautiful sights in St. Petersburg is this multicolored church designed in traditional medieval Russian style. Alexander III ordered its construction in 1883 on the site where his father had been assassinated two years prior.

It took over 20 years for the church to be finally completed, partly because of budget and partly because the materials needed for its interior décor (which included 7,500 square meters of mosaics to cover the walls and ceilings) weren't that easy to come by.

The church was seriously damaged during the Russian Revolution in 1917, then used as a morgue during WWII and as a potato warehouse right after. It took almost 30 years of restoration to get the building to its original splendor-but rather than reopening as a church, the structure is now a museum of mosaics .

Catherine the Great ordered the formation of the imperial opera and ballet troupe in the late 18 th century, but it wasn't until 1860, almost 80 years later, that the company got its own theater. Once it opened, Mariinsky Theater was the most preeminent music hall in Russia-the place where major masterpieces from Tchaikovsky and Mussorgsky were first premiered.

A masterpiece of Neoclassical architecture with Neo-Byzantine design elements, the Mariinsky Theater looks opulent from every angle-from the U-shaped auditorium to the ceiling mural to the massive crystal chandelier.

Today, the theater is one of the most prestigious cultural institutions in St. Petersburg. If you plan on attending a premiere or a popular performance (such as The Nutcracker in December or January), you will need to get tickets well in advance.

St. Petersburg's canals once played an important role in preventing floods-and while they still do keep waters at bay, they are now mainly used for transportation and to enjoy beautiful cruises down the Neva.

The canal system stretches for over 300 kilometers, with hundreds of bridges (both pedestrian and for traffic) crossing over them. The two most popular waterways are the Griboyedov Canal and the Winter Canal. The Griboyedov Canal flows under 21 bridges and alongside some of the city's most famous landmarks, including the Church of Our Savior on the Spilled Blood. The city's shortest canal, the Winter Canal , runs by the Winter Palace and the Hermitage Theater.

Both small and large boats are available to travel through the canals-some offering food, live music, or special English-language tours-including special rides to watch the bascule bridges opening at midnight.

The protected cruiser Aurora is a retired Russian naval ship with an armored deck. Built in the earlier 1900s, it served during the Russo-Japanese War in 1904-1905 and survived the Battle of Tsushima, where Russia suffered massive losses both in human lives and in the number of ships sunk or destroyed. It was also a shot from an Aurora cannon that marked the beginning of the Russian Revolution in 1917.

The Aurora is now anchored on the river Neva and is the most visited branch of the Central Naval Museum . Visitors can tour six different rooms onboard the ship, where they can see recreated snippets of everyday life (including how people ate and slept), photographs and paintings, and model ships.

While access to the Aurora is free, the engine room is only accessible for an extra fee. The view from the deck of the Aurora is stunning, with imperial buildings and rocking waters all around.

Technically speaking, St. Isaac is the world's largest Orthodox basilica , though the building has been converted into a museum, and religious service is rarely held here anymore. The cathedral was named after Saint Isaac the Confessor, a Christian monk who founded an important monastery in Constantinople.

The cathedral was finished in 1858, after 40 years of construction work plagued by criticism about the Neoclassical building being "plain and not too impressive."

The museum's collection features many ancient icon paintings, mosaic images, and colored stonework and marble. Perhaps the best reason to visit St. Isaac's Cathedral, however, is the 360-degree view you'll get from the platform at the 43-meter-tall colonnade - a magical mix of colorful rooflines, golden spires, and a number of city landmarks.

Luxury Hotels:

• Four Seasons Hotel Lion Palace St. Petersburg has an excellent location just two blocks from the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. The hotel itself is inside a former palace belonging to a Russian princess in the 1820s. The interior is stunning, with a granite grand staircase. Rooms and suites are spacious and posh, with 5-star amenities. Also on-site are a number of different dining options, including a glass-roofed winter garden where you'll find the Tea Lounge. A spa, heated swimming pool, hot tub, and sauna are other perks of staying here.
• Hotel Helvetia is a 5-star property that is often priced lower than others in its category making it excellent value. Located within walking distance of Nevsky Prospect, it is a historic hotel dating back to the early 1800s. The design is elegant, and the rooms and suites have charming style and butler service. There is a restaurant and concierge on-site.
• Another luxury option is the Hotel Astoria next to St. Isaac's Cathedral in the center of St. Petersburg. The rooms and suites are classy, and there are options for families. Butler service is offered, and there is also valet parking. Other amenities include a restaurant and a spa with a sauna.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Galunov Hotel is an excellent mid-range choice. The 4-star property is still quite luxurious and features cozy rooms and suites with exposed brick walls and fresh flowers in vases by the bed. The hotel is less than a 10-minute walk to Vosstaniya Square and just a few hundred meters to the Moskovskiy train station. Amenities include free parking, free breakfast, and 24-hour check-in.
• For an intimate mid-range stay check out the Alexander House . Located on the Kryukov Canal Embankment in the historic center of St. Petersburg, it has just 20 rooms and suites. These have a warm ambiance, with upholstered furniture, exposed brick walls, large windows, and area rugs. A complimentary breakfast is served in the morning.
• Old meets new at the Pushka Inn Hotel . The property boasts antique lanterns on walls, dark wood floors, and high ceilings. It also has a scenic location right on the Moyka River. Amenities include a restaurant, 24-hour front desk, and airport transportation.

Budget Hotels:

• For a solid budget hotel check out Allegro Hotel on Ligovskiy Ave . Just a few minutes' walk from the railway station with trains to Moscow and to Nevsky prospect, it features bright and spacious rooms with wood floors and furnishings and exposed brick walls painted white. A free breakfast is offered.
• Admiralteyskaya Hotel is another good budget choice. It is located on Matisov Island, which is surrounded by three rivers and connected with the rest of the city by five different bridges, offering guests a different view of St. Petersburg. The hotel is family friendly and offers guests a free breakfast.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Exploring Russia : When planning a trip to Russia, it pays to look outside the main cities for some unique and awe-inspiring destinations. For stunning mountains, lakes, and never-ending tundra, check out our list of Best Places to Visit in Russia . If you are heading to Moscow next and want ideas on what to see while there, we have some great suggestions in our article, Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Moscow .

Districts [ edit ]

Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ].

Saint Petersburg was built by Peter the Great in 1703 on the Neva river, on the land he had just conquered from the Swedish Empire , outside the area then populated by the Russian people. Pre-planned rather than spontaneous almost from the very beginning, the city, called by Peter "my window on Europe", was designed to look European rather than Russian, and many European architects were invited to work here. As the capital of the Russian Empire from the early 18th century to the early 20th century, the city grew steadily, saw many crucial events of the Russian history, and was a major cultural center. Many world-famous artists, scientists, writers and composers, such as Mendeleev, Dostoevsky and Tchaikovsky, lived and worked here.

In 1917 the Russian Revolution started. The significance of Saint Petersburg has declined somewhat after the transfer of the Russian capital to Moscow in 1918, but this allowed its cityscape to remain largely intact to this day. During World War II , the city was besieged by the Wehrmacht for 872 days, resulting in more than a million of civilian losses, mainly from starvation.

The city has undergone several name changes since its founding. Due to the German origins of the name "Saint Petersburg", its name was changed to the more Russian-sounding "Petrograd" in 1914 in the wake of World War I . Subsequently, its name was changed to "Leningrad" in honour of the founding leader of the Soviet Union, Vladimir Ilyich Lenin. It was only in 1991, after the breakup of the Soviet Union that the original name was restored, though the surrounding area remains known as Leningrad Oblast.

Saint Petersburg has almost always been, or at least tried to be a city with strong foreign connections, and this is where its authenticity lies. Don't expect it to be overly indigenous. Matryoshkas and other such souvenirs popular among foreigners have very little to do with its authentic life.

Talk [ edit ]

The language spoken in Saint Petersburg is Russian, as in most parts of Russia. English is usually taught in schools and universities, so younger people are supposed to understand it to some extent, but the chance of finding anybody who is fluent in English on the streets is, though better than elsewhere in Russia including Moscow, still not that great. Average people will probably be able to point out a direction, but don't expect much more. The signs and labels in most places, especially off the beaten path, are still in Russian only, with a notable exceptions of metro (subway) and street signs in the city centre. It may be a good idea to get familiar with the Russian Cyrillic alphabet before the travel, as this is easy and lets you recognize street names and so on.

There is a local weekly English-language newspaper, The St. Petersburg Times [dead link] .

Get in [ edit ]

Russian visa requirements are complex but are not hard to manage with some online research. See the Get In section of the article on Russia for information. A visa is not required for a trip of less than 72 hours if you arrive in St. Petersburg by ferry or by cruise liner and you have a pre-arranged program of excursions by an approved local company.

Starting October 1, 2019 tourists from a number of countries can visit St.Petersburg and the surrounding regions by e-visa, obtained free of charge from the Russian Government website . This site lists the particular border crossings where this class of visa is accepted. This visa has been suspended due to Covid-19 restrictions.

By train [ edit ]

Tickets can be bought at the train stations or online . Long distance train tickets are generally more expensive if bought close to the date of travel. See Russia#By train 2 for more details on travelling in Russia by train.

There are five principal train stations in Saint Petersburg:

From Finland [ edit ]

Karelian Trains, a joint venture of the state railway companies VR (Finland) and RZD (Russia), operates highspeed Allegro trains running at up to 220 km/h between Helsinki and Saint Petersburg (travel time 3½ hours, 4 departures in each direction per day, €59-79 for 2nd class). Tickets originating in Finland can be purchased from the VR Group [dead link] website, via some travel agencies, and at major VR train stations in Finland. Border crossing formalities are completed on board the train immediately after departure from Helsinki. The trains are almost always on time and there are no delays in crossing the border. On-board currency exchange is available. On 26 March 2022 the Allegros will stop because of the Russian war on Ukraine.

By bus [ edit ]

International buses and buses to major cities in Russia all leave from the 59.9132 30.35747 7 main bus station (Avtovokzal) , near the Obvodny Kanal metro station. Some may make additional stops elsewhere in the city; see below. Buses are the preferred method of travel to/from Estonia and Latvia , but generally do not make sense for travel to Finland or within Russia.

The process of crossing the border by bus takes much longer than when travelling by train or air. Border agents only speak Russian and are sometimes not aware of visa requirements, which leads to delays.

The train is much more preferred method of travel than the bus within Russia. Domestic bus schedules can be accessed on AviaBus [dead link] .

• Lux Express operates service to/from Helsinki (€15-20, 7 hours, 3 per day). This is the cheapest way to travel to Helsinki, although it takes twice as long as the train.
• Matkahuolto provides information on traveling by bus to/from Finland. There are direct buses between Saint Petersburg and Helsinki (7-8 hours, 4 per day, €35) and Lappeenranta (6 hours, 3 per day, €31), with further connections to other cities in Finland.
• Sovavto [dead link] operates daily buses between Saint Petersburg and Turku (10 hours, €53), with stops at several cities including Helsinki (7½ hours, €35).

From the Baltics and other cities in Europe [ edit ]

By boat [ edit ].

If you join a cruise tour of St. Petersburg, then you don't need a Russian visa but you have to stay with the tour. See Russia#Visa free entry by ship .

• St. Peter Line [dead link] operates visa-free cruises to St. Petersburg from Helsinki , Tallinn , and Stockholm .
• RechFlot and Stolichnaya Sudokhodnaya Kompania (SSK) operate river cruises on the inland waterway "Volga-Baltic" which links Moscow , the River Volga, and Lakes Onega, Ladoga and Neva.

Get around [ edit ]

Bridge draw schedule [ edit ].

Except during the winter, the 9 low bridges in St. Petersburg are drawn during the night to allow for the passage of boat traffic. Therefore, if you don't make it to the side of the river where you are staying before the bridges are drawn and there are no high bridges to cross, you will be stuck until the bridges are lowered. There are "breaks" when some the bridges are lowered in the middle of the night for approximately 30 minutes to briefly allow everyone to get home. The bridge schedule is particularly noteworthy for those staying on Vasilyevsky Island, which is unreachable at certain times of the night. Seeing the bridges drawn in the middle of the night is a must for all visitors to the city!

The Bolshoy Obukhovskiy Most, 14 km south of the Alexander Nevsky Bridge (Most Aleksandra Nevskogo), is never drawn, allowing for 24-hour crossing of the Neva River. However, the bridge is out of the way and will increase the cost of your taxi or Uber.

The official bridge draw schedule is published online .

The following are the times when the bridges are drawn and will not be able to be crossed:

By taxi [ edit ]

Taxis are always available but are much more expensive at night. Every private vehicle is a potential taxi. Flagging down a vehicle and paying for a ride somewhere is perfectly normal in Russia and quite popular although ill-advised for tourists. Safety is, of course, an issue. As a rule, you should never get in a private cab if it already has passengers inside.

Refuse requests from the driver to take on more fares unless you reached your destination; if he insists, ask to stop at a safe-looking place, pay and leave. If the driver stops for gas, step out of the car, take your belongings, and get some fresh air while he is fuelling it. Those travelling alone (men and women) should wave off any suspicious ride for any reason whatsoever. Gypsy cabs which linger near popular bars and restaurants at night have been known to be especially dangerous, with several instances of druggings and robberies.

Drivers do not usually speak English. Watch out for overpriced taxis outside Hermitage museum. They have meters that run at 4 times the rate of regular taxis. Negotiate a flat fare before getting on the taxi. If the driver insists on using the meter you should walk away.

By ridehail [ edit ]

Uber is a safer and cheaper method of transport than taxis. In Russia it works under the franchise of Yandex.Taxi , the subsidiary of Yandex - the local Internet giant, so you will need to download the corresponding app. Drivers usually don't speak English, but communicating with the driver is not necessary since the fares and destinations are all handled through the app. Other alternative for ridehail is Bolt [dead link] .

By bicycle [ edit ]

While the terrain in Saint Petersburg is flat, the city is not bicycle-friendly due to limited bike lanes, bad weather, and dangerous car traffic. However, you are allowed to take a bicycle onto the elektrichka trains upon payment of a small fee and go to a less crowded suburb to enjoy a ride.

See [ edit ]

Saint Petersburg is simply put one of the greatest sightseeing cities on earth. No visit can do it justice—you'll have to move here to really be able to see all the sights. Really, budgeting a month of full-time tourism would not be unrealistic. And that's after all dramatic events of the 20th century that took place here! Perhaps only Rome , Paris and London can compare in sheer volume of beautiful, grand things to see.

As the center of the Russian world for 200 years of the Romanov Dynasty, the city reaped the rewards of Peter the Great's impossibly grandiose and tyrannical vision, and the Empire's extreme inequality. The wealth of the wealthy in Imperial Russia was almost unfathomably extreme, and led to the extreme opulence of the palaces and ecclesiastical buildings throughout the city center, as well as the suburban palaces at Peterhof , Gatchina , Strelna , Pushkin , and Pavlovsk . The greatest concentration of sights is found within the huge area of the center inside the Obvodny Canal , along the south embankment of Vasilievsky Island , and in the southern half of Petrogradsky Island .

Highlights [ edit ]

So, OK, you don't have months to explore the city—what are the highlights? It's a difficult question to answer. The most obvious destination is the Winter Palace on Palace Square (right by the Admiralty and the Bronze Horseman ), which houses the Hermitage Museum, and which was the winter residence of the Romanov Tsars and essentially the center of the Russian Imperial government. The Hermitage Museum is easily one of the top five art museums in the world, but even if you don't care about art, wandering around the enormous palace itself is extremely rewarding. The nineteenth century, whimsical Church on the Spilled Blood nearby is another internationally recognized icon of the city, with a spectacular setting on the Griboedov Canal near the Mikhailovsky Garden, and filled—literally filled—with beautiful mosaics.

Speakings of canals, strolling the palace-lined banks of the Moika, the Fontanka, and the Griboedov Canal in the historic center is a must. During the summer months, you can also enjoy this magnificent architecture from the boat by joining any of the popular (albeit expensive) "channel tours," or opt for a budget boat trip along the Neva river on a so-called riverbus , which is a tiny boat zooming along the river on several routes that are integrated into the system of public transport.

In the same neighborhood, walk down Nevsky Prospekt, which serves as Saint Petersburg's main grand avenue for shops (especially the historic mall of Gostiny Dvor ), theaters, and another realm of palaces and cathedrals, most notably the massive Kazan Cathedral . The Kazan Cathedral is functioning, so its easier to visit than the other big cathedrals (no lines, entrance fees, etc.). In the same neighborhood, but off Nevsky, are the Square of the Arts , where you'll find the Russian Museum —an absolute can't-miss for art lovers. The Mariinsky Theater is one of the world's most beautiful performance venues, and you should check it out even if you can't see an opera or ballet performance. Mammoth Saint Isaac's Cathedral [dead link] , with its impressive balcony views, is another obvious sightseeing destination.

Across the Neva River are more can't-miss sights. The Peter and Paul Fortress on the Petrograd Side is easily one of the city's top three attractions. Aside from its sheer beauty, visit it for its immense history as the final resting place of the Romanov Tsars, as well as its role as a notorious prison for the most high-profile political prisoners under their rule. On Vasilievsky Island , you must at least take a taxi over to the Strelka for the views by the Rostral Columns, across the street from the Old Stock Exchange, home to the Naval Museum , surely one of the best of this kind on the planet. Then take another ride along University Embankment before heading back across the river. Better yet, stop along the way at the weird and wonderful Kunstkamera museum of ethnology, home to Peter the Great's bizarre collection of oddities.

Complicating the desire to see the city's highlights in a short period of time are the magnificent suburban palaces at Peterhof , Pushkin , Lomonosov , Strelna , and Pavlovsk . Any tourists who visit Saint Petersburg and don't see neither the Tsarskoye Selo palaces at Pushkin, nor the Bolshoi Palace at Peterhof, really should be a bit ashamed of themselves. It's like going to Paris and skipping Versailles. Of the three, the Pavlovsk Palace would be the least unforgivable to miss, but if you have the time—go.

Exploring more [ edit ]

More time? The center has a world of more sights. Mars Field with the Memorial to the Revolutionary Fighters and the Eternal Flame, the Circus, wonderfully baroque Smolny Cathedral, Peter the Great's Cabin, the rolling parkland of the Tauride Palace and Gardens, Alexander Nevsky Monastery, the Yusupov Palace where Rasputin was killed (if you get the chance to see a performance in the theater inside, jump on it), the neoclassical bust-filled Summer Gardens, Mikhailovsky Castle, the Marble Palace, the small but powerfully heartrending Museum of the Defense and Blockade of Leningrad. Literary buffs should seek out Dostoevsky's local haunts, including the famous "Murder Walk" from Crime and Punishment , which will take you right from Raskolnikov's apartment to the door of the very apartment where the grisly deed was done.

Head back across the river to the Petrograd Side , past the Peter and Paul Fortress, you'll find the Saint Petersburg Mosque, the really impressive Military Museum, the museum-ship of the Cruiser Aurora, the ever... interesting Museum of Political History, and the Botanical Gardens. On Vasilievsky , the whole Neva embankment is filled with great museums and grand buildings. Especially great places to visit (aside from the aforementioned Naval Museum and Kunstkamera) include the Menshikov Palace (run by the Hermitage), the Twelve Collegia, and the Mining Museum. And don't forget to hunt down the some 3,300 year-old sphinx statues from the Theban Necropolis!

Further afield [ edit ]

Few tourists make it out of the city center, south of the Obvodny Canal and north of Petrogradsky Island, but there are still huge amounts of things to see in the north and south of the city—especially in the south. Southern Saint Petersburg is home to the Narva Triumphal Arch and its sister monument—the Moscow Triumphal Gate, the huge Monument to the Heroic Defenders of Leningrad (which honestly should be one of the main attractions in this city, if not for its distance from the center), Moscow Victory Park, and one of the best examples of Stalinist architecture (more interesting than you'd think) at the House of the Soviets, fronted by a very large Lenin statue. The most wonderful sight in southern Saint Petersburg, though, may be the whimsical, candy cane-colored Chesme Church.

The eastern part of the city (colloquially known as the Right bank ) is renowned for its nineteenth century industrial architecture in the districts of Okhta and Porokhovye (former gunpowder factories).

Northern Saint Petersburg is a bit less notable, but adventurous travelers can find some things of interest, especially in the old industrial district around the Finliandskii Station, at the Forestry Academy and Piskaryovskoye Memorial Cemetery for the fallen in the Siege of Leningrad.

The naval fortress of Kronstadt at Kotlin island, nowadays accessible by road across the dam, is a very significant site for fans of the history of military architecture, and makes for enjoyable day trips by boat.

Do [ edit ]

Events [ edit ].

Other Theatres [ edit ]

Circus [ edit ], concerts [ edit ].

The music scene in St. Petersburg is diverse, with several classical, jazz, and pop concerts to choose from each week. Tickets are available at the same Teatralnaya Kassa locations as ballet and opera tickets, although tickets to pop concerts - especially US and European stars on tour - sometimes use exclusive distributors. For pop and rock concerts, unless you buy tickets for the dance floor (tanzpol), you are expected to sit quietly in your seat as if you were at a ballet - ushers are vigilant about keeping the audience from standing up, dancing, or cheering (polite applause is allowed, but that's about all).

Several of the ballet and opera theaters above also offer orchestral and recital performances, so those are not repeated below. Also, don't forget the many small clubs where up and coming bands play.

Film [ edit ]

Most cinemas in St. Petersburg show Hollywood films dubbed in Russian. Art cinemas like Dom Kino often show independent American or British movies subtitled in Russian. DVDs of American/European films are also often dubbed. There have been crackdowns on sellers of bootleg DVDs, so it may be difficult or expensive to find DVDs in English these days. There are several DVD stores in the city - often near Metro stations - and it is worth asking about films in English.

Annual Message to Man international documentary, short, and animated films festival takes place in June or July, screening many films in English.

Sport [ edit ]

Watch football: FC Zenit Saint Petersburg play in the Russian Premier League, the top tier of Russian football. Their home ground is Krestovsky Stadium, on Krestovsky island 10 km north of city centre. Take Metro M3 (Green Line) west towards Begovaya and get off at Novokrestovskaya. The stadium will host matches at the upcoming Euro 2020 tournament.

Private language schools [ edit ]

• CREF - Centre of Russian, English & French Studies .  
• EducaCentre , 2 locations: Komendantskaya square #1, Atmosphere Shopping Mall, 6th floor and 12th line of Vasilievskiy Island , ☏ +7 812 676 0075 , [email protected] . (20) 45-minute group lessons per week: €180, (30) 45-minute group lessons per week: €225; €60 administrative fee .  
• EDUCA Russian Language School , 3 Bolshaya Morskaya ( Metro: Gostiny Dvor ), ☏ +7 812 954 7320 , [email protected] . Not to be confused with the similarly-named school listed above. Central location, although teachers are younger and less experienced. (20) 45-minute group lessons per week: €195, (30) 45-minute group lessons per week: €240; €65 enrollment fee .  
• Liden & Denz , Italyanskaya ulitsa #17 . Highly rated, although pricier than other schools. (20) 50-minute group lessons per week: €280, 2-week minimum .  
• ProBa Language Centre , Zagorodnyi prospekt #17 ( Metro: Vladimirskaya or Dostoyevskaya ), ☏ + 7 812 9061308 , [email protected] . Facilities are very basic. 2 week minimum. Group classes: €450 for 2 weeks .  

Buy [ edit ]

There are plenty of ATMs and legit currency exchange booths. Do not exchange money on the street: the rate won't be any better, and you run a high risk of encountering any of numerous scams .

Small cornerstores are not necessarily more expensive than larger stores.

Churches often have small souvenir/religious shops with a large variety of items.

The famous place to shop is of course on Nevsky Prospekt in the Center . The streetfront shops there, Passazh, and the historic mall at Gostiny Dvor skew upscale, but there are street markets just off Nevsky, most notably Apraksin Dvor (south on Sadovaya from Gostiny Dvor) where you can get anything on the cheap (especially cheap if you speak Russian).

Luxury shopping with world-class brands is available in two places in St. Petersburg: DLT luxury multi-brand store and Staronevsky fashion district . Due to the difference in exchange rates, prices for some positions may be better than in Milan . The staff at the luxury stores speak English (always) and Chinese (often)

Sleep [ edit ]

The best area for a tourist to stay in is generally considered to be near the Nevsky Prospekt Metro. You'll be able to walk to most of the main attractions, and there are tons of restaurants, shops, cafes, clubs, etc. right on Nevsky. Staying off Nevsky along one of the beautiful canals, though, would also be a fabulous idea.

Connect [ edit ]

For information on using telephones and buying SIM cards in Russia, see Russia#Connect .

The emergency service number is 112.

WiFi [ edit ]

Free WiFi is available in most hotels, cafes, restaurants, bars, and shopping centers.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Corruption [ edit ].

Policemen & bureaucrats. For any Western traveller disturbing the system, permission to visit the country can be refused at the border. The average street policeman usually cannot speak any foreign language, but if you look like a tourist, you could be a target for money income source. Don't panic! Always ask for a receipt and the names of the officers.

Crime [ edit ]

Saint Petersburg has a somewhat undeserved reputation for being a dangerous city. Things have calmed down since the Wild West (or Wild East) days immediately after the collapse of the Soviet Union, but some common sense is still required.

Guards at metro stations require random passengers to show carry items and inspect their backpacks. If you prefer to avoid this, ride by bus or taxi.

Take care of money, documents, cameras, mobile phones, and anything of value because of pickpocketing . Especially watch out on the Metro during busy times, as people start pushing at the train doors, and pickpockets are frequent, particularly (but not only) at Gostinyy Dvor Metro Station . When riding the Metro, keep in mind that robbery can be a real threat; you should constantly watch what is going on around you and who is standing very close to you. Nevsky Prospekt and nearby markets are also pickpocket hangouts.

Theft of photo equipment is really a big problem in Saint Petersburg. Photo bags probably won't save your camera—it can be opened in less than 5 seconds; the straps can be slashed with a knife even more quickly. Cameras should be kept in bags slung across the body at all times, with your hands keeping a firm grip on them, and no watches or jewelry should be visible at all. Quite obviously, do not show in public that you have a lot of money. Robberies are not uncommon, and many foreigners have been threatened at gun and knife point. However, foreigners are not targeted specifically, and robbers will attack both foreigners and natives that carelessly reveal their wealth.

By night [ edit ]

As with most other major cities, avoid traveling alone at night, and do not get into altercations with drunks. If traveling at night, it is recommended to stay on the main sidewalks and avoid any dark alleys or yards.

Downtown and western parts of the city are safest. Suburbs like Kupchino , Veteranov and Ligovo are struggling with criminality and poverty.

As a general rule, the farther you are from the city center, the more dangerous it is.

Gangs are a problem, although mafia gang wars are unlikely to affect tourists. Some gangs, however, such as neo-Nazis or angry hooligans, are out looking for problems and commit crimes that can affect tourists. Hatred toward people with darker complexions is not uncommon, and neo-Nazism is a concern. St. Petersburg, and Russia in general, can be regarded as a seriously dangerous destination for tourists of darker complexions so travelling in groups is highly advised.

Saint Petersburg's football club, Zenit Saint Petersburg , is one of the biggest clubs in the country, and has its own band of hooligans. If you decide to visit the football stadium to watch the club play, you should buy tickets to center sectors. If you do not do this and a fight starts, you are likely to get dragged into it by either the hooligans or the police, since both will think you are part of the brawl.

Take special care on Nevsky Prospekt , particularly the area with the city tour buses, a favorite spot of pickpockets and particularly of those after photo equipment. On the bright side, "Nevsky Prospekt" sees little mugging.

Russian driving is wild . Drivers attack their art with an equal blend of aggressiveness and incompetence. Guidelines are lax and rarely followed. As a pedestrian, take care when crossing the roads, since it might be difficult for drivers to notice you. If you are thinking of driving yourself, bear in mind that the local traffic police are corrupt, but this issue has improved drastically. Pedestrian crossings with a traffic light are quite safe to use, most car drivers will stop.

Bar fights do occur. In the center of the city and around Nevsky Prospekt , they are rare. However, in the suburbs and local cheaper pubs, fights occur almost daily. If you are staying with locals living in these areas, it might be a good idea to avoid these bars. Police are unlikely to show up as they consider fights as small, unimportant, regular and a waste of time, and they will probably laugh at you for calling.

Tourist traps [ edit ]

Gypsy cabs are ubiquitous and a little risky; never take one lingering near bars/clubs where expatriates and tourists congregate.

Saint Petersburg has a relatively big problem with street children who make their living out of stealing. They can be a hassle and can beg you aggressively. Act like any other Russian would: say no, then just ignore them and go away. If they start touching you, be very firm in pushing them away.

Gay travelers must practice extreme caution while staying in Saint Petersburg, as attacks often occur. Many Russian people look upon public demonstrations of homosexuality with undisguised contempt. It is advised to not openly display one's sexuality.

Natural hazards [ edit ]

Another subtle danger that can affect your trip is the inevitable effect of winter weather. Poor harvesting of snow and ice is a big problem in the city. Caution is advised in snowy winters because of falling ice from roofs, and pedestrians should pay special attention to ice on the streets. Snow on marble is very, very slippery—take small steps and watch your feet!

St. Petersburg regularly experienced floods during its history, sometimes catastrophic. However, the construction of the preventive dam has been completed, and catastrophic floods are unlikely to happen again.

Overall, be warned that if you are used to living in the US and/or Western Europe, Saint Petersburg, as well as the rest of Eastern Europe, will seem different, and, at times, a bit intimidating. On the other hand, Russian people are usually friendly, welcoming and interested towards foreigners, and nothing should happen to you unless you put yourself in harm's way. If you don't care about them they don't care about you, and nothing should get in your way of having a great holiday.

Cope [ edit ]

Saint Petersburg is plagued by a number of mosquitoes during the summer, especially in June, as the swampy surroundings of the city give the mosquitoes excellent living conditions. In budget accommodation with few countermeasures against the mosquitoes, this can be a problem at night, putting your well deserved sleep at risk. Less of an issue in the city center, mosquitoes can be much more numerous on the outskirts. They are not dangerous, though, just a nuisance.

Consulates [ edit ]

Visa centers [ edit ], go next [ edit ].

Overnight trips [ edit ]

If you leave Russia and plan to return, make sure you have a multiple entry visa.

• Novgorod — Ancient town with churches and museums, 180 km from St. Petersburg, can be accessed by high-speed trains.
• Narva , Estonia — 160 km southwest of Saint Petersburg on the Narva river, which serves as the border between Russia and Estonia. Twin castles (Russian, established Grand Duke Ivan III, and Danish/Swedish).
• Vologda — this city is considered the heart of Russian North, a popular local travel destination. Reachable by overnight train, from there you can go to Moscow or further north to Arkhangelsk .
• Petrozavodsk and the rest of Karelia — popular Russian travel destination for its beautiful nature and access to White Sea islands. Reachable by overnight or high-speed train.
• Moscow — the Russian capital is reachable by overnight train or in the daytime by the high-speed Sapsan train (about 4 hr) or by plane. As much to see as in St. Petersburg, so plan on several days here.

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St Petersburg

The sheer grandeur and history of Russia's imperial capital never fail to amaze, but this is also a city with a revolutionary spirit.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

State Hermitage Museum

The Hermitage fully lives up to its sterling reputation. You can be absorbed by its treasures for days and still come out wanting more. The enormous…

Grand Palace

Around St Petersburg

The Grand Palace is an imposing building, although with just 30-something rooms, it is not nearly as large as your typical tsarist palace. From the start…

General Staff Building

The east wing of this magnificent building, wrapping around the south of Dvortsovaya pl and designed by Carlo Rossi in the 1820s, marries restored…

One of the greatest attractions outside of St Petersburg is the jaw-dropping collection of gilded fountains, statue-lined lanes and picturesque canals…

Yusupov Palace

This spectacular palace on the Moyka River has some of the best 19th-century interiors in the city, in addition to a fascinating and gruesome history. The…

Catherine Palace

The centrepiece of Tsarskoe Selo, created under Empresses Elizabeth and Catherine the Great between 1744 and 1796, is the vast baroque Catherine Palace,…

Mariinsky Theatre

The Mariinsky Theatre has played a pivotal role in Russian ballet ever since it was built in 1859 and remains one of Russia's most loved and respected…

Catherine Park

Around the Catherine Palace extends the lovely Catherine Park. The main entrance is on Sadovaya ul, next to the Palace Chapel. The park extends around the…

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St Petersburg and beyond

St. Petersburg   Travel Guide

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Why Go To St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg stands at the geographic and cultural borders of the west and east. While the city's appearance was influenced by the intricate and ordered architecture of Western Europe, it is still infused with a vibrant and persevering Russian spirit. St. Petersburg largely owes its dualistic nature to its founder, Peter the Great, an unabashed lover of all things European. In the early 1700s, Peter commissioned the city's streets and architecture to resemble his favorite western cities.

And the results of the czar's great experiment? A grand European-style city, replete with long boulevards, narrow canals and grand public squares. It's also an epicenter of distinctly Russian culture, as the place where literature and music greats like Dostoyevsky, Tchaikovsky and Prokofiev all found their voice. Moscow might be known for its luxury and decadence, but St. Petersburg offers compromise between the expensive tastes of Russia's capital and the often-overrated (and just plain crowded) cities of Western Europe.

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Best of St. Petersburg

Best hotels in st. petersburg.

• # 1 in Grand Hotel Europe
• # 2 in Hotel Astoria, a Rocco Forte Hotel
• # 3 in SO/ Saint Petersburg

Best Things to Do in St. Petersburg

• # 1 in Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace
• # 2 in Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood
• # 3 in St. Isaac's Cathedral

St. Petersburg Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit St. Petersburg is from mid-June to September. Although it's expensive, St. Petersburg's near 24 hours of sunshine and White Nights celebrations during the summer months are not to be missed. Summers are generally cool but pleasant, with low temperatures dropping to the 50s and highs hovering around 70 degrees, so be sure to pack accordingly. Traveling to St. Petersburg in the winter is rare; days are short, and temperatures will dip well below freezing into the teens.

Weather in St. Petersburg

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

• Bring your Russian dictionary English is widely spoken in major hotels and restaurants, but you'll find very few English speakers outside the tourist districts. You'll hear Russian and see Cyrillic almost exclusively, so it's best to be familiar with the alphabet before your trip.
• Carry change for restrooms While St. Petersburg once had reputation for inadequate, ill-equipped public restrooms, the city has improved its facilities. However, use of restrooms in some public spaces, such as parks and shopping malls, may require a small payment (around 30 rubles or 50 cents).
• Breathe easy Thanks to legislation passed in 2013, bars, restaurants and public transportation are now nonsmoking spaces, making secondhand smoke less of an issue for visitors. However, public sidewalks are another story.

How to Save Money in St. Petersburg

• Invest in a St. Petersburg Card With the St. Petersburg Card , you'll enjoy free admission to more than 80 museums and tours, including the Peter and Paul Fortress , Peterhof and the Russian Museum , among others. Plus, you can use the card to pay your fare on public transportation. St. Petersburg Cards can be purchased in two-, three-, five- or seven-day increments.
• Book early Making your hotel reservations up to a year in advance – especially if you intend to visit during June's White Nights celebration – can save your wallet some pain.
• Protect your pockets As in many large cities, pickpockets are prevalent in St. Petersburg. Keep a close eye on your belongings in crowded areas, such as Nevsky Prospekt and the metro.

Culture & Customs

English is spoken in major hotels and restaurants, but you'll find mostly Russian speakers in the more local areas like the market or small inns. Some helpful Russian greetings include the informal "hello" ( priv-EYET ), the formal "hello" ( ZDRA-stvooy-te ), the informal "goodbye" ( pah-KAH ), and the formal "goodbye" ( Dah svih-DA-nee-ye ). Saying "thank you" ( Spa-SEE-ba) is always nice as well.

The ruble is the official currency of Russia. One U.S. dollar is equivalent to about 64 rubles. Plan to check the current exchange rate before your trip. While you might want cash for some purposes (purchasing metro tokens, for instance), you'll find that most restaurants, stores and hotels accept credit cards. Currency exchanges in airports generally offer less favorable rates than banks. ATMs are common in Russian cities, so your debit card might work (though you should check with your bank before you go regarding fees and exchange rates).

Tipping for service is common practice in Russia, and tips of around 15% are typical.

What to Eat

While it's true that visitors can still find classic Russian culinary staples like borscht, stroganoff, cabbage stew and caviar on menus around the city, travelers will also enjoy more contemporary dishes as well. And fortunately for visitors, food prices are more reasonable in St. Petersburg compared to Moscow .

You'll find hundreds of culinary hot spots in St. Petersburg, especially along Nevsky Prospekt, ranging from luxurious eateries to sprawling, local markets. If you're looking for an affordable snack on the go, try a Russian crepe, or blini. This Russian pancake is usually stuffed with butter, caviar or other fillings and is a treat for the adventurous foodie. You'll find it at street vendors around the city. To acquaint yourself with local produce, meats and cheeses, pay a visit to the Kuznechnyy Rynok (Kuznechny Market) a favorite among tourists for its honey vendors and plentiful souvenirs.

If you're craving a classic Russian meal, consider Literary Café on Nevsky Prospekt, which once played host to the likes of Pushkin and Dostoyevsky. For a more modern take on Russian fare, head to Hamlet + Jacks for dishes like Baltic herring and Siberian venison. And for Georgian cuisine, Phali Hinkali is a top spot thanks to its hearty dishes. If you're celebrating a special occasion, or just want to treat yourself to a memorable meal, critics and travelers suggest making a reservation at Palkin , which is known for its elegant dining room and fusion of Russian and French cuisines. Other well-reviewed eateries include Probka (Italian), Bekitzer (Israeli) and Etnos Café (Georgian).

St. Petersburg has a mixed reputation when it comes to safety, but most agree that it has improved from the chaotic time immediately following the fall of the Soviet Union. Discrimination against ethnic groups, specifically individuals of Asian or African descent, is still reportedly an issue in Russia, as is discrimination against LGBTQ individuals. Government officials warn against traveling alone at night to avoid violent confrontations.

In October 2019, the U.S. State Department issued an advisory urging increased caution in Russia because of possible terrorism and arbitrary enforcement of laws. However, these mainly applied to specific areas (such as the North Caucasus for terrorism and occupied portion of Ukraine for abuses by authorities). With respect to St. Petersburg specifically, the State Department noted possible delays in services for U.S. citizens because of reductions in diplomatic personnel. According to the State Department, you can be detained by Russian police for not having your passport with you (police in Russia do not need to show probable cause to stop, question or detain you). Plan to carry your passport with you at all times. Visit the State Department's website for more information.

When walking around, you'll also want to be very careful when crossing roads, as drivers don't always yield to pedestrians here. Use crosswalks and only cross when vehicles have come to a complete stop. Several travel sources advise tourists not to drink the tap water in St. Petersburg due to the antiquated pipes and high metal levels in the tap water. To avoid illness, only drink filtered or bottled water.

Getting Around St. Petersburg

The best way to get around St. Petersburg is by public transportation; otherwise, you can walk around Nevsky Prospekt, the main thoroughfare. There's an extensive bus and metro system with lines that run throughout the center and into the city's outskirts. The tram or trolley is best for short journeys through downtown. For trips to the suburbs, try the metro system. Rental cars are available at the Pulkovo Airport (LED), but acquiring the proper driving documents can be a hassle. Taxis are also a prevalent (though, at times, unsafe) way to move around.

From the airport, a taxi can cost anywhere from 600 to 1500 rubles (or about $9.50 to $24), depending on your destination. Taxi Pulkovo is the preferred company; you'll see Taxi Pulkovo stands in the arrivals area of the airport. However, several recent travelers have been overcharged for taxi trips between the airport and the city. Many recommended relying on smartphone apps instead to ensure a fair price.

Entry & Exit Requirements

Acquiring a visa to travel in Russia is a bit more complicated and expensive than visiting other countries. Every foreign traveler entering Russia must have a Russian-based sponsor (like a hotel, tour company, university or relative). In addition to a valid U.S. passport, you must also obtain a travel visa from a Russian embassy or consulate prior to arriving in Russia. If you plan to stay in Russia for more than seven days, you have to register your visa and migration card (the white paper document given by the border police on first entry to Russia) with the Federal Migration Service. Tourists visas start at $160 per person. You can apply for a visa up to 90 days before your intended visa start date. For more information on entry and exit requirements, visit the U.S. State Department  website .

St. Petersburg is built around a network of rivers and canals, with many of the city's top attractions located on the banks of the water.

Explore More of St. Petersburg

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13 Things To Do In Saint Petersburg | Russia’s Most Beautiful City

By Author Christian L.

Posted on Published: January 17, 2021  - Last updated: September 11, 2021

Categories Europe , Destinations , Russia

Once known as Leningrad and before that Petrograd, Saint Petersburg, Russia, is the country’s second-largest city. Set next to the Neva River, close to the Baltic Sea, this city is home to over 5 million people.

It’s the world’s northernmost city, founded by Peter the Great and named after Saint Peter the apostle. Once home to the Tsars of Russia, it is today known as the country’s cultural capital.

With iconic sights such as Hermitage Museum, Nevsky Prospect, Peterhof Palace, and so much more, it has a fascinating heritage ripe for exploration. Without further ado, let’s dive into the 13 best things to do in St. Petersburg. 

Top Things to do in St. Petersburg, Russia

St. Petersburg, Europe, has grown into one of the top tourist destinations on the continent. Although it might get very cold in winter, there are still plenty of things to do – and the summers are absolutely perfect! Saint Petersburg is one of the prettiest cities in all of Europe .

Keep reading for some of my favorite choices. 

1. Visit The World Famous Hermitage Museum

One of the city’s most popular attractions (with over 3 million items in its esteemed collection), State Hermitage Museum showcases everything from fine art to ancient artifacts. 

Even if you don’t plan on entering inside, the exterior is an architectural gem in itself. The columns are all in white with green/gold facades that can be viewed from the river or Palace Square.

If you’re visiting St. Petersburg, Russia, your trip would not be complete without stopping past this world-famous landmark. It’s also a great activity to do no matter what time of year you are visiting – and a perfect way to escape those cold Russian winter days. 

There are six buildings in the museum complex in total. Five of which – Winter Palace, Small Hermitage, Old Hermitage, New Hermitage, and Hermitage Theatre – can be accessed by the public.

Within, you’ll be treated to Egyptian collections, artifacts dating from ancient Mesopotamia, and classical Greek jewelry, pottery, and sculptures. This is any historical culture lover’s dream. 

Keep exploring, and you will find collections of prehistoric relics from the Palaeolithic era to the Iron Ages, European fine arts, Impressionist works, Catherine the Great’s personal collections, and so much more.

In fact, you’ll need an entire day or possibly longer to explore this incredible museum complex. If you only have limited time in St. Petersburg, be sure to add this museum to your itinerary! There are also guided tours available if you want a more educational experience. 

Did you know? The Hermitage Museum is the world’s second-largest art museum.

2. Take in a Performance at Mariinsky Theatre

The Neoclassical Mariinsky Theatre is home to Russia’s revered opera and ballet companies.

The theatre – named after the wife of Tsar Alexandra II, Empress Maria Alexandrovna – has been here since 1860 when it was known as the Kirov Theatre.

This magnificent building, since it opened, has hosted stage performances and premieres from Tchaikovsky and Mussorgsky and famous ballets such as Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake and The Nutcracker. 

Today, in addition to hosting live performances, the theatre has its own record label, which focuses on releasing music by Russian composers Stravinsky, Tchaikovsky, and Rachmaninov.

If you enjoy the arts and are going to be in St. Petersburg for several days, book tickets to see a world-class performance – you won’t be disappointed.

3. See Jewelled Eggs at the Faberge Museum

The House of Faberge was founded in St. Petersburg in 1842 by Gustav Faberge. Originally a jeweler, he became famous for designing jewel-encrusted eggs for the Tsars of Russia and is arguably the most famous goldsmith of the modern era. 

Today, you can view these iconic collection pieces in the Faberge Museum. It showcases 4,000 items in total, including Faberge Easter eggs, jewelry, silverware, home decor, and fantasy-themed objects.

The incredible jeweled eggs are famous all over the world, and there are several museums dedicated to them. But if you want to learn about Gustav Faberge, his family, and how it all began, this is the museum to visit. You can purchase a ticket in person or online. 

4. Spend an Hour Canal Cruising

St. Petersburg is built on 42 islands, and once upon a time (before bridges were constructed), cruising was the only way to navigate the city.

On a Golden Ring boat tour, you’ll see some of St. Petersburg’s iconic sights along the Kryukov Canal, including St. Nicholas Cathedral, Saint Isaac’s Cathedral, and the Mariinsky theatre.

You’ll dip beneath the famous colored bridges on Neva River whilst enjoying views of Peter and Paul Fortress, Vasilyevsky Island, and the Summer Garden. This is truly one of the most breathtaking ways to take in all the beauty that St. Petersburg has to offer. 

This tour also only takes around an hour, so you’ll have plenty of time to revisit your favorite spots throughout the day!

5. Discover Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood

One of St. Petersburg’s architectural masterpieces is the Church of Our Savior on Spilled Blood.

This former Russian Orthodox Church was completed in 1907 and is built in Baroque, Neoclassical, and Russian Revival design. It is one of the city’s main attractions, with ornate domes, intricate frescoes, and 7,500 square meters of mosaics inside. 

If you don’t wish to enter, you can gain incredible views from Griboedov Canal. But if you do venture inside, you’ll be rewarded with interior frescoes and mosaic works depicting biblical scenes and figures created by celebrated Russian artists of the time.

The Church of the Saviour of Blood is built on the spot where Emperor Alexander 2 was assassinated in 1881 – hence the name. So, not only will you be able to appreciate the fine architectural designs, but also explore an important part of Russian history. 

6. Take a Rooftop Walk-in St. Petersburg

If you have viewed the city from canals and rivers, try it from the rooftops! You can take a guided rooftop walk in the city, seeing streets and skylines from an elevated perspective.

One particular tour to highlight is the Official Rooftops Excursion of St. Petersburg. Just a few minutes from Nevsky Prospect, these sites offer vistas of Fontanka River and Trinity Cathedral – and that’s just the first roof.

The second roof boasts views of St. Petersburg’s old center, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, Kazan Cathedral, and the Church on Spilled Blood.

This is a truly incredible way to see the city in all its glory, plus the tour provides you with binoculars so you can see everything in great detail.

7. Admire Nevsky Prospect’s Magnificent Architecture

The main street of St. Petersburg is Nevsky Prospect. Begin at the intersection at Stroganov Palace before venturing to Kazan Cathedral. While you walk, take in the monuments dedicated to Catherine the Great and browse goods at The Passage – Nevsky Avenue’s premier department store.

This store was quite the trailblazer. It opened its doors in the late 1840s and was one of the first buildings in Russia to use gas for lighting. Then, in 1900, an electric station was installed on an underground floor.

Once you’ve finished shopping and enjoyed a fresh cup of coffee, continue to the Russian National Library – the oldest public library in Russia – and Alexandrinsky Theatre (which was built for the Imperial troupe of Petersburg).

8. Visit the Island of Peter and Paul Fortress

Set on an island connected by bridges, Peter and Paul Fortress is instantly recognizable from its needle spire, which dominates the skyline. The fortress was originally built to defend the maritime city from Swedish invaders.

However, Peter the Great defeated the opposition before it was even completed! It has since served as a military center and prison for political dissenters and, latterly, as a museum.

Inside the vast complex, you can see Peter and Paul Cathedral, visit the resting place of the Romanovs, and watch military processions or the firing of the noon-day gun.

It’s a great day trip for anyone interested in Russian, maritime or military history. There are also plenty of group walking tours available. 

9. Sample Russian Vodka in a Ryumochnye

A visit to Russia wouldn’t be complete without sampling the local drink – vodka, and the best place to do this is in a Ryumochnye. This is a specific style of 19th-century Russian drinking house that not only offers some of Russia’s best vodka but also a short history lesson.

You could call it a bar, but it’s more than that – most mainstream Ryumochnye have a definite Soviet vibe and are places for working men to kick back and enjoy vodka with their buddies.

Beverages come in bottles or shot form, and some places offer self-service and snacks.

If that sounds too hardcore for your taste, there are updated versions of Ryumochnye in the city, like Mayak in St. Petersburg, where you can gain a similar experience. 

10. Enjoy local Saint Petersburg Craft Beer

Although most people think of vodka when visiting Russia, you can also enjoy some of the best craft beer in Saint Petersburg . Russia’s second-largest city has an exciting, rapidly growing craft beer scene, in part due to its history and geography.

Historically, the Russian empire was influenced by Northern Europe, and the Dutch & English beer-drinking culture eventually made its way here. Today, Saint Petersburg is home to a growing number of modern microbreweries, cool taprooms, and stylish bars.

Saint Petersburg is also home to Stepan Razin Brewery, the oldest brewery in Russia (now, of course, owned by Heiniken). It opened in 1795, but today the building is known as the Saint Petersburg Beer Museum, showcasing the history of beer in Russia and the Soviet Union.

Russia’s largest and most popular brewery, Baltika, is also located in Saint Petersburg, and it’s possible to take a tour of their huge brewery.

11. See the Majestic Catherine Palace

A stately palace of blue and gold, Catherine’s Palace is located 26 kilometers south of St. Petersburg. Named after the wife of Peter the Great, this place was originally a two-story modest building commissioned in 1717.

The exterior, which stretches for one kilometer in circumference, is surrounded by woodlands, lawns, gilded balconies, and reliefs. However, the interiors are even more impressive.

With great halls, a white dining room, an amber room, and more. It’s the perfect place to step back into history and discover what life was like as a Russian aristocracy.

12. Explore Peterhof Palace

If you’re going to visit Catherine Palace, you should tour Peterhof too. It’s a 40-minute drive away, but you can even take a hydrofoil speed boat from right behind the Hermitage in Saint Petersburg center.

Sitting close to the Baltic Sea, Peterhof Palace was constructed by Peter the Great to be Russia’s version of Versailles. The opulent residence surrounded by sculptures, fountains, and tiered staircases leading to the grand entrance evokes mystery and the history of a bygone era.

Inside it is lavishly decorated with dazzling chandeliers, one-of-a-kind artworks and beautiful ceiling frescoes.

On a guided tour, you can learn more about the palace’s history. Discover the Throne Room, Portrait Hall and Peter the Great’s Oak Study. You’ll see dining rooms set for dinner, grand ballrooms where dancing and gatherings would take place, and décor which defies time.

The palace offers great insight into his life and legacy, and if you are interested in history, art and interior design, you’ll love it.

Want to know more about Peterhof?

13. Spend a Day by the Finnish Border at Vyborg

Just over an hour from central Saint Petersburg by train is the city of Vyborg. It sits on the Gulf of Finland and was first settled back in the 12th century. The city has been occupied by Finnish and German forces and suffered extensive damage during the Second World War. However, it has since been rebuilt. 

It’s a charming center to wander around, with narrow cobbled streets, a medieval castle, and Finnish art nouveau structures sprinkled throughout. An easy day trip from St. Petersburg, it can also serve as a stop-off point if you’re crossing into Finland to continue your adventure.

Want to know more about Saint Petersburg?

Where is St. Petersburg | Is St. Petersburg in Europe?

If you want to know “Where is Saint Petersburg?”, you’ve come to the right place. Beautiful St. Petersburg is located in northern Russia. Russia is a massive country, so it is no surprise that many people want to know “Is Saint Petersburg in Europe?”. The answer is yes. 

How to Get to Saint Petersburg

The maritime city is well linked to Europe by air, sea, rail and road. Depending on where you’re traveling from and the rest of your itinerary, you can use one of the following ways to arrive at St. Petersburg.

You can fly into Saint Petersburg through Pulkovo International Airport. There are around 1,100 international flights a week and 1,200 domestic flights operating in and out of the local airport.

Although many flights from European cities to Saint Petersburg are direct, you may have to change flights if flying from further afield.

It’s also possible to travel to St. Petersburg by train. The most popular (and most frequent) routes operate from Moscow, Helsinki, and Tallinn. However, there are options to travel from other areas in central Europe, central Asia, and eastern Europe by rail.

There is a central bus station in Saint Petersburg, with services to and from Moscow, Pskov, Novgorod, Vilnius, Riga , Tallinn and Helsinki. Some of these journeys can be long and arduous.

Therefore, thorough research and choosing the right bus company is important.

Baltic Sea Cruises also operate to St. Petersburg as part of a larger itinerary, and St. Peter Line Ferry sails from Helsinki in Finland and Tallinn in Estonia.

Exploring Saint Petersburg, Russia

Saint Petersburg is the 5th most populous city in Europe and also a leading tourist destination. Although people sometimes forget about Russia, this city is breathtakingly beautiful and provides plenty of cultural and historical attractions.

Now that you know where to go, I hope you have an amazing time in Russia’s most beautiful city.

Friday 19th of January 2018

Thank you! So great review about our St. Petersburg!

What to do in St. Petersburg in 1 day - Probe around the Globe

Thursday 11th of May 2017

[…] more about the beauty of St. Petersburg from the Unusual […]

Friday 17th of June 2016

Which hostel did you stay at? I am potentially thinking of going to Russia for World Cup 2018 after my World Cup trip to Brazil two years ago. Saint Petersburg is one of the host cities, and so I am very interested in learning more about this city and recommendations from fellow travellers who have been.

Christian L.

I stayed at Soul Kitchen Junior, and I will go so far and say its by far the best hostel I have ever stayed at!! Anywhere in the world, no other hostels even get close to it:)

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Natural Wonder

Between late May and early July Saint Petersburg truly turns into a city that never sleeps as its skies take on an all-night luminous purple glow known as White Nights. It's the perfect time to not only witness the unique natural phenomenon, but also experience the exceptional joie de vivre which penetrates the air. Locals and tourists alike make the most of their sun-filled summer days and balmy temperatures with endless celebrations and street parties.

UNESCO Site

Among Saint Petersburg's numerous world heritage sites , a visit to the fortress of Kronshtadt on Kotlin Island is certainly worth your time. Russia's naval center offers a lot of highlights to explore including The Naval Cathedral, a neo-Byzantine church, multiple forts and the historic center.

Cultural Site

For a cultural experience make Hermitage, located inside the Winter Palace of Empress Catherine , your primary destination. The museum has an extraordinary wealth of artwork spanning more than 1,500 rooms. Additionally, the State Russian Museum is a treasure-house of the works of prominent Russian artists. Lastly, step on board the memorial ship Aurora which signaled the start of the October Revolution of 1917, and don't miss Fabergé Museum for its foremost collection of bejeweled Imperial Eggs.

Off the Beaten Path

Tap into the local danger-loving subculture and get a unique view of the city by joining a rooftop tour of Saint Petersburg (tours include protective gear and a safety briefing). If challenging your fear of heights doesn't particularly make your soul tick, then book an exclusive after-hours tour of the Hermitage Museum to have the place completely to yourself.

Most Iconic Place

Among Saint Petersburg's dazzling architecture, the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood is undeniably the most iconic. Its exuberant onion domes catch the eye from afar, while the intricate mosaics inside leave even the most experienced travelers at awe. The church was erected on the site of the 1881 assassination of Tsar Alexander II and is currently open to the public as a museum.

With an array of hipster live-music joints, stylish cocktail bars, dance clubs and pubs there is no danger of running out of new nighttime experiences in St. Petersburg. The junction of Dumskaya Street and Lomonosova Streets is known to be the city's drinking quarter with its fair share of dive bars. You'll find more classy options on Vosstaniya Street, at Konushennaya Square and along the banks of Fontanka River.

Historic Site

Visit Peter and Paul Fortress which marks the very spot where Saint Petersburg was founded. Built in 1703 under the watchful eye of Tsar Peter, the mighty fortress offers a lot to see including the bell tower, which is still the highest building in St. Petersburg, and the baroque Peter and Paul Cathedral which is the final resting place of Peter the Great.

Neighborhood to Explore

Petrograd Island, the oldest and one of the most atmospheric neighborhoods of the city, will charm you with its quaint cityscape. Stop by Sytny Market, the oldest farmer's market in Saint Petersburg dating back to 1710 to see old babushkas sell fresh produce and legendary pickles and watch the unadulterated daily life of the neighborhood dwellers.

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People-Watching Spot

No place is more abuzz around the clock than Nevsky Prospect, the main artery of Saint Petersburg and the center of the city's cultural and social life. Alternatively, savor an afternoon on the small island of New Holland. This multi-functional arts and culture space is favorited by locals, especially on the weekends, for its array of great restaurants and seasonal outdoor activities.

Most Iconic Experience

Saint Petersburg continuously wows audiences around the world with its extraordinary opera and ballet productions, whether it's the invaluable classics like Swan Lake or equally impressive contemporary interpretations. Visit the Mariinsky Theater , the finest opera in the country, which opened its ornate doors in 1860 and hosted the premiers of many of the stage masterpieces from Tchaikovsky, Mussorgsky and Rimsky-Korsakov.

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15 Top Tourist Attractions in Saint Petersburg, Russia

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Renowned for its elegance and grandeur, Saint Petersburg is awash with stunning architecture, as majestic palaces and cathedrals jostle for space alongside its many canals and waterways. Located at the mouth of the Neva River on the banks of the Gulf of Finland, it is the second-largest city in Russia after Moscow. Founded by Peter the Great in 1703, for centuries, it was the capital of the Russian Empire.

Everyone from artists and architects to composers, scientists, and writers were attracted to its shores. This turned the city into a cultural powerhouse, with fantastic art collections to be found alongside opulent opera houses hosting world-class ballet, classical music, and theater performances.

There are plenty of things to do in Saint Petersburg with it museums, historical tourist attractions, and palaces. Nicknamed ‘the City of White Nights’ due its endless summer days, this is a magical place to visit at any time of year.

15. Faberge Museum

Located in the stunning Shuvalov Palace, this wonderful museum hosts the most extensive collection of works by the famous Russian jeweler Peter Carl Faberge, after whom it is named.

Containing over 4,000 artworks, its refined rooms and sophisticated galleries showcase everything from porcelains and paintings to intricately carved and ornately designed bronze, silver, and gold objects.

The undoubted highlights are the museum’s nine Imperial Easter eggs that Faberge himself created for Alexander III and Nicolas II – the two last Russian Tsars. Bedecked in jewels, they shimmer and shine in the light and exhibit some exquisite and elaborate craftsmanship.

14. Alexander Nevsky Monastery

Sprawling over a vast site, the Alexander Nevsky Monastery is one of the most important spiritual centers of the Russian Orthodox Church and is still in use to this day. Founded by Peter the Great in 1710, it is located on the spot where Alexander Nevsky – a former prince and now patron saint of the city – is said to have defeated the Swedes in battle in 1240.

Encompassing two fine Baroque churches, the Neoclassical Holy Trinity Cathedral, and a host of ornate tombs of famous Russian figures, the monastery and its leafy grounds are certainly fascinating to explore.

13. State Russian Museum

Occupying one entire side of Arts Square in the center of Saint Petersburg, the State Russian Museum is a fabulous place to head to if you want to learn more about Russian art. Established in 1895, the museum is located in the enormous Mikhailovsky Palace, which itself is a work of art: the Neoclassical building is home to lots of exquisite rooms and galleries.

Beginning with artworks and Byzantine-inspired icons from the 12th century, the comprehensive collection takes you on an incredible journey through the ages, with socialist-realist works on show alongside portraits of princes and epic landscape paintings. Often overlooked in favor of the Hermitage, the State Russian Museum is well worth checking out if you are at all interested in art.

12. New Holland Island

Built in 1719, the artificial New Holland Island is so named because the waterways and canals all around it make it look as if it has just popped up out of Amsterdam. The triangular island came into being when Admiralty Canal and Kryukov Canal were dug to connect the Moika River to the Neva River – and by extension, the Gulf of Finland.

Once a shipyard and naval base, New Holland Island has been renovated in recent years and now boasts numerous art galleries, coffee shops, and restaurants.

11. Erarta Museum of Contemporary Art

If you’re interested in contemporary Russian art, then the Erarta Museum is the place to go; its extensive collection is set over five floors within a massive building on Vasilyevsky Island. Encompassing some 2,800 artworks, its sprawling galleries are home to graphics, installations, and sculptures, with a plethora of paintings also on display.

In addition to its fabulous permanent collection, the museum also regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, as well as shows and performances. Beautifully laid out and presented, its brilliant artworks and sleek design usher in a new ‘Era’ of ‘Art,’ and this is what lends the museum its name.

10. Mariinsky Theater

One of the most prestigious cultural institutions in the country, the Mariinsky Theater, has been dazzling opera and ballet goers since it was founded in 1859.

A fitting setting for all the world-class dancers, singers, and musicians that have performed on its stage over the decades, the lavishly decorated concert hall really is a delight to gaze upon.

Named after the wife of Tsar Alexander II, the Mariinsky Theater is one of the best places in Saint Petersburg to watch a show, along with the Mikhailovsky Theater.

9. Yusupov Palace

Also known as Moika Palace, due to its location on the banks of the river of the same name, Yusupov is one of the best places to visit if you want to see how aristocrats lived in Imperial Russia. While its exterior is quite plain, besides its pastel-yellow color, the interior is simply staggering to explore: its many halls are decorated with only the finest furniture, artworks, frescoes, and tapestries that money can buy.

Built in the 1770s and named after the wealthy Russian noble family that owned it, the colossal palace remarkably even boasts its own private theater. In addition to all its many riches, Yusupov Palace is famously where Grigori Rasputin, the Russian mystic who was believed to have influence over Tsar Nicolas II, was murdered in 1916.

8. General Staff Building

Gently curving its way around the south of Palace Square, the General Staff Building is one of the most famous architectural monuments in the city and faces both the State Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Designed by Carlo Rossi, the elegant Neoclassical building was built between 1819 and 1829, and its two wings are separated by a majestic triumphal arch.

This was erected to commemorate Russia’s victory over Napoleonic France in 1812 and has some marvelous statues perched atop of it. Once the headquarters of the general staff of the Russian armed forces, the eastern wing of the beautiful building is now part of the State Hermitage Museum and houses a stunning array of awe-inspiring art pieces.

7. Peter & Paul Fortress

Set in the exact spot where Saint Petersburg was first founded, the Peter & Paul Fortress was built all the way back in 1703. It is from its star-shaped defensive fortifications that the city slowly spread out around it.

Occupying a prominent position on the banks of the Neva River, the fortress has lots of fabulous buildings for you to explore, such as the Trubetskoy Bastion and the magnificent Peter and Paul Cathedral.

Besides its fascinating historical sights and interesting exhibitions that relate to the Russian revolution and Imperial Russia, the fortress also hosts a number of festivals, events, and concerts during the year. In addition to this, the sandy beach that lies at the foot of its wall makes for a popular sunbathing spot when the sun is shining.

6. St Isaac’s Cathedral

One of the largest cathedrals in the world of any denomination, St Isaac’s gargantuan size is certainly staggering to behold; its enormous gold-plated dome is visible from almost anywhere in Saint Petersburg. As it took 40 years to build, grander and more elaborate designs kept getting added to the original plans: over 100 massive columns were erected alongside several other smaller domes.

Inside is even more impressive as beautiful reliefs, mosaics, and iconostasis cover every imaginable surface. Although it still holds services, St Isaac’s Cathedral was turned into a museum in 1931 by the Soviet government and remains so to this day.

5. Kronstadt Naval Cathedral

Built between 1903 and 1913, the Kronstadt Naval Cathedral is quite unique and unusual in terms of its design: it combines Neo-Byzantine and Romanesque architecture with various Russian features.

Located on the small island of Kotlin that lies in the Gulf of Finland, the glimmering white cathedral was financed by the Russian navy and is dedicated to fallen seamen everywhere.

While its beautiful cupola and facade are delightful to gaze upon, its cavernous interior is no less impressive, as grand chandeliers and mosaics look down upon its marble floors and columns. As it is located just a short ferry ride away from Saint Petersburg, it is well worth spending half a day or so in Kronstadt to see the town and its gorgeous cathedral.

4. Catherine Palace & Park

Located some 30 kilometers to the south of the city, the breathtaking Catherine Palace is where the Russian tsars came to relax and unwind during the summer months. The grand and flamboyant style of the palace dates to 1752, when the architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli redesigned and redecorated the original building, plastering elaborate stuccoes all over it.

It is painted a bright bluish-green, with the white columns and gold statues and embellishments standing out delightfully; the Rococo palace really does make for a spectacular sight.

Inside are a number of lavish ballrooms for you to explore. The Golden Enfilade of staterooms are the undoubted highlight, while the Amber Room and Grand Hall are also must-sees. Named after Catherine I who commissioned it, the palace is set in some fantastically laid out and landscaped gardens; these are perfect for taking a relaxing stroll in after all the overwhelming splendor you’ve just taken in.

3. Peterhof Grand Palace

Commissioned by Peter the Great to outshine the Palace of Versailles with its opulence and grandeur, the Peterhof Grand Palace certainly makes a good go of it. Covering a considerable area, its series of palaces and gardens are simply spellbinding to wander around, with beauty, art, and nature on show wherever you look.

Built between 1709 and 1756, each new addition, palace, or building was grander than the last. Each architect added their own features, with the Throne Room and Chesme Hall being two of the most finely decorated of the lot. Located all around the palaces are a dazzling array of landscaped gardens complete with fountains, cascades, flowerbeds, and statues.

Not to be missed when in Saint Petersburg, the Peterhof Grand Palace fully earns its nickname of ‘the Russian Versailles’ and is equally splendid in terms of what it offers up.

2. Church of the Savior on Blood

Appearing as if out of a fairytale, Saint Petersburg’s Church of the Savior on Blood looks very much like the world-famous Saint Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow. This similar design sees five richly decorated onion domes tower above the main body of the church below.

Built between 1883 and 1907 at a colossal price, the gorgeous church was erected in the memory of Tsar Alexander II, who was fatally wounded by anarchists at the same site.

Inside is just as majestic as its fantastic exterior; every conceivable surface is coated in astonishing mosaics of saints and icons. After having been ransacked in the Russian revolution, used as a morgue in WWII and as a vegetable warehouse in Soviet times, the Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ – to give it its official title – has thankfully been restored to its former glory.

1. State Hermitage Museum

The second-largest art museum in the world after the Louvre in Paris, the State Hermitage Museum’s vast collection is remarkably spread across five buildings and 360 rooms in the center of Saint Petersburg. Founded by Catherine the Great, an avid art collector, the huge number of paintings, sculptures, and antiquities were added to by various tsars, and it was Nicolas I who opened them to the public in 1852.

Following the Russian revolution, many extensive private collections were seized, which only further bolstered its numbers. Today, the State Hermitage Museum has around three million artworks in its collection. With such renowned names as Da Vinci, Rembrandt, Picasso, and van Gogh on show, wandering around its galleries really is a treat. One could spend days, if not weeks trying to see everything.

Whether it is prehistoric art, the Italian Renaissance, the Dutch Golden Age, or 19th-century Russian art that you are interested in, the State Hermitage Museum is simply a must when in Saint Petersburg.

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15 reasons to visit St. Petersburg - Russia's cultural capital

Home / Russia Travel Experiences / 15 reasons to visit St. Petersburg – Russia’s cultural capital

If the great cities of Europe competed for the title of ‘Most Beautiful’, St Petersburg would be right up there. The mix of history, culture and, contemporary life — those elements that make visit St Petersburg so compelling. In the midst of a new era of cultural expression, majestic historical buildings and classical artistic traditions are still preserved and valued by the locals. 

This list of attractions and reasons on why you should visit St Petersburg will tap you right into the heart of the city’s vibrant energy.

Table of Contents

1. Feel like a Russian tzar in St Petersburg’s palaces and parks

St Petersburg is home to Russia’s best preserved and most elaborate constructions from the extravagant Tsarist era. Brimming with baroque palaces, classical sculptures, royal gardens, and grandiose cathedrals, you can not simply miss to visit St Petersburg in your lifetime. Walking around the city is like wandering through a living museum. Although these architectural buildings were established hundreds of years ago, most were preserved and transformed into museums. Enjoy and feel the history and culture instilled in every room and wall of each infrastructure.

The Winter Palace is one of the most popular palaces in St Petersburg. It was the imperial residence of the Tsars and is the main site of the Hermitage Museum. Rooms were restored in order to depict what its like to live at the time of Russian Empire and is part of what you can see in the State Hermitage Museum . Mikhailovsky Palace or the Russian Museum is boasting about Russian fine arts such as paintings, fabrics, and ancient coins and is also a former musical salon. Yusupov Palace is where most diplomatic meetings are conducted. It has been visited by the biggest celebrities and politicians today. The Museum of Glass Art sits inside the Yelagin Palace . The palace hosts lots of events including music festivals, backyard parties, and tulip festival. Marble Palace has an impressive marble hall and room. More than thirty types of marble were used to build and decorate the palace which is also part of the Russian Museum .

Pushkin , south of St Petersburg, is where one of the most extravagant residence ensembles you could see when you visit St Petersburg. In this town, you can see the neoclassical Alexander Palace . It was Nicholas II –the last Russian emperor’s favorite residence. The palace is now a naval college and a museum which exhibits the palace’s history by restoring three of its rooms and photographs and a documentary film about Nicholas’ regime. On the other hand, a Russian Baroque palace can be found at the centre of the town. Catherine Palace is famous for its Great Hall, Golden Enfilade, and Amber Room. The whole palace is decorated with gold. In fact, more than 100 kilograms of gold were used to illuminate the facade and interiors.

2. The architectural masterpiece of Palace Square

Similar to the Red Square of Moscow, Palace Square ( Dvortsovaya Ploshchad ) is a public space where major historical Russian events took place including the Red October and the Bloody Sunday Massacre. As the city’s main square, political ceremonies and rallies still occur in the vast space every now and then. But festivals and concerts take place more often. It is also considered as one of the most fascinating architectural and historical ensembles in the world which combines baroque and neoclassical architectural styles.

On the Northern side of the square, you will find the Baroque-style Winter Palace while opposite to the elegant green and white palace is the equally appealing neoclassical General Staff Building . It served as the home of the Imperial Army General Staff, Tsarist Foreign Ministry, and Ministry of Finance and is currently used as offices by the government in the west wing and as part of the Hermitage Museum in the east wing. What enables to meet the east and west wings is the triumphal arch which also leads you to the famous Nevsky Prospekt .

The Royal Guards’ General Staff Building on the eastern side is also being used as government offices. While on the west of the square is where you can see the Admiralty which serves as naval college and was Russia’s Naval Headquarters. At the centre of the building is the golden Admiralty Tower , the focal point of the city’s main streets: Nevsky Prospect, Gorokhovaia Street, and Voznesensky Prospekt. Another attraction on the square’s west is the Admiralty Garden which is a must visit especially during spring and summer.

On the centre of the Palace Square stands the Alexander Column . It commemorates Russia’s victory over Napoleonic France and is named after Alexander I, the ruler during that era. Standing next to the column, you will surely realize that the square itself is almost enough for you to visit St Petersburg.

3. The magnificent Hermitage Museum

With over three million items, the Hermitage Museum is considered the second largest museum in the world. It is estimated that it will take 11 years for an individual to view each display item for one minute. Filled with artworks of Michelangelo, Rembrandt, Van Gogh, Monet, and other artists the Tsars have collected, you just can’t simply miss to see this museum when you visit St. Petersburg. It serves as a symbol of St Petersburg’s (and of Russia’s) love for art, history, and culture. There are several sites that constitute the whole complex, but the main museum is the Winter Palace which is the reason why the Hermitage is called “museum-palace” and not just a museum.

TIP : Tickets are free every first Thursday of the month. On Wednesdays and Fridays, the museum is open until 9 pm while the usual in until 6 pm. It is more expensive if you buy your tickets online than the standard way of personally lining up to purchase tickets at the entrance. However, for a short visit, we recommend that you go to the museum on Wednesday and/or Friday at 4 pm for a shorter queue.

4. Venice of the North

Sharing the name “Venice of the North” with six other cities, St Petersburg has a network of stunning canals and bridges just like Venice. Known for having extravagant palaces, museums, and theatres, it can be tiring to see and discover all of them just by walking around the city. That’s why we recommend you to take some time out for a leisurely canal cruise through the heart of the city. A cruise is necessary when you visit St Petersburg. It gives you the opportunity to sail under photogenic bridges and see most of the city’s famous landmarks along the way.

There are several rivers and canals which you could sail through to see the city from different angles. Neva River is the main waterway of the city and almost all major attractions can be seen from a boat tour along the river. Moyka River is a narrow river that when you decide to cruise around, you’ll find the Court Stables —where Alexander Pushkin’s funeral was held, the Glinka State Academic Capella , and St Isaac’s Square . Zimnyaya Kanavka (Winter Canal) although a short canal is considered the most romantic spot in the city because of its scenic and pleasant view. It connects the Neva and Moyka rivers in the Winter Palace area. The last waterway that we would like to feature is the Kryukov Canal . We believe that a greater recognition must be made for this canal because of its particular history and since the Mariinsky Theatre, New Holland, and the Bell Tower of St. Nicholas Cathedral sit on its banks.

However, if you can’t get enough of cruising through Russian waters when you visit St Petersburg, why not opt for a longer cruise? We offer Russian river cruise , on which you’ll take in the sights, sounds, and history of Russia’s heartland from the comfort of a modern cruise vessel.

5. The spectacle of the Neva bridges opening

Being one of the largest rivers in Europe and one of the world’s shortest river, the Neva River deserves a separate piece. As I wrote above, most of the main attractions in the city can be easily seen from a boat sailing through the river or simply just from any spot on the banks of the river. Navigation season in Saint Petersburg starts in April and ends in November.

During this period drawbridges (moveable bridges that let ships pass through) of St Petersburg are opened for a few hours during the night. Although the raising of the bridge is one of the prominent reasons why tourists want to visit St Petersburg, the actual reason is to let cargo ships to pass up and down the river. A walk along the embankments or a ride on a cruise boat in the Neva river will surely leave an unforgettable impression of the city at night.

TIP : Always check the schedule to avoid being stranded on the wrong side of the river. The bridges usually stay up between 2 am to 5 am.

6. The awe-inspiring churches & cathedrals

Although several Orthodox churches were destroyed during the Russian Revolution, these churches and every church that was left were returned to the Diocese of St. Petersburg for reconstruction. Each church in the city today has equally fascinating history and beauty —inside and out. For those who are devoted to doing a pilgrimage annually, these exquisite churches are the reason why they visit St Petersburg. The architectural design of each church is striking that it makes every structure irresistible to stare at.

If St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the reasons to visit Moscow , The Church of the Savior of the Spilled Blood is one of Russia’s. It has a Medieval Russian architecture —distinct from the common Baroque and Neoclassical styles of most buildings in St. Petersburg, The church also claims to have the largest collection of mosaics in the world that depicts scenes and characters from the Bible. It was where Alexander II was murdered, thus, earning its unique name. Dedicated to Our Lady of Kazan, Kazan Cathedral is considered as the most sacred icon of Russia. When you go enter the impressive bronze doors, you can immediately notice that the cathedral features various Russian sculptures, paintings, and icons.

St. Isaac’s Cathedral is the largest cathedral in St. Petersburg and fourth in the world. Its dome was illuminated with gold and twelve statues of angels. The entire cathedral amounted to one million golden rubles. During the Soviet government, the cathedral was denounced as a religious place. Instead, the government established a Museum of the History of Religion and Atheism on the cathedral itself. However, after the fall of the Soviets, religious practice was resumed and the museum was kept open. One of the most bizarre churches, Chesme Church was built as the house church of the Chesme Palace . What makes it unusual is its Gothic-style architecture which is shaped like a cake and is striped in pink and white. Smolny Cathedral, Church of the Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God, Church of Ss. Simeon and Anna, and Church of the Epiphany of the Mother of God are just some of the incredible churches you definitely should not miss seeing when you visit St Petersburg.

7. Peter and Paul Fortress

It may not be as famous as the Hermitage and the Mariinsky Theatre , but Peter and Paul Fortress are as historically rich and beautiful as the two landmarks. It is the birthplace of the city, founded by Peter the Great and served as the citadel of the city. The fortress is located on Hare’s Island and is labelled as the “Museum of the History of the City”. It is comprised of multiple historical infrastructures that half day is not enough for you to see each one of them. It should be definitely be on your list if you’re planning to visit St Petersburg.

Served as the burial site of the imperial family, Peter and Paul Cathedral symbolizes Imperial Russia. It is the oldest church in St. Petersburg and the gilded spire with an angel holding a cross at the top makes it second-tallest building next to Television Tower in the city. In honour of the apostles Peter and Paul, you will find their status inside the cathedral along with antique paintings and icons. As mentioned above, the compound constitutes numerous buildings and attractions including I mperial Rooms, Bell Tower, Trubetsky Bastion Prison, Commandant’s House, Neva Curtain Wall, Mint, Statue of Peter the Great, Ioannovsky Ravelin, and Engineering House . You can also relax at the beach outside the walls if you’re lucky enough to be there on a nice weather.

TIP: Taking the Metro and getting off at Gorkovskaya station is the easiest way to get to the amazing fortress. Tickets for each museum and exhibition can be purchased at each entry point of the building. But if you already know which buildings you would like to visit, you can buy the tickets in one go at Ioannovsky Ravelin or at the Boat House (near Peter and Paul Cathedral).

8. St Petersburg’s contemporary art scene

State Hermitage Museum, State Russian Museum, Fabergé Museum, Russian Museum of Ethnography, and Museum of Decorative and Applied Arts are just some of the well-known museums in the city. However, St Petersburg isn’t all about the old masters. The city’s reputation as a hub for art and culture has carried on into the modern era. As young artists, writers, musicians, and designers continue to flock to the city, you won’t ever run out of new exhibitions and galleries when you visit St. Petersburg.

A former bakery has now turned into an uber-cool visual and performing arts space called the Loft Project ETAGI or New Holland Island . It serves as a huge multifunctional creative space complete with galleries, bookstores, and hip cafes. Etagi may seem like a little city, as a matter of fact, it is also called “Container City” since containers are used shops and cafes in the exhibition space.

The Erarta Museum of Contemporary Art sits in a Neoclassical Stalinist building, a former synthetic rubber research institute. But don’t be fooled because it is actually the largest private museum of contemporary art in the whole country. Erarta which means Era of Art produce their own creative projects such as the known U-Space and Theater With No Actors. Their gift shop sells original artworks and home decor items and they even have an interior design service.

Focusing on the 21st-century arts, the Anna Nova Art Gallery has a two-story space where large-scale installations by Russian and international artists are displayed. The gallery also offers a special service for artists who want to promote and develop their own collection and exhibit.

Art re. Flex Gallery exhibits diverse types of applied arts including sculpture, jewellery, and embroidery. Novy Muzei , a 20-minute walk from Erarta Museum, displays controversial modern arts such as naked Stalin and Hitler paintings. If you’re into photography, you should definitely go to ROSPHOTO . Every year, around 50 photographic installations and experimental cinemas are held in the gallery. Perhaps the most diverse art space is Taiga St. Petersburg . It is home to creative startups, recording and design studios, fashion boutique, and showrooms.

9. St Petersburg’s theatres

St Petersburg is not only famous for its fine and visual arts, the city is also boasting with the world-renowned drama, musical, and ballet performances. For some people, the theatres are the sole reason why they visit St Petersburg, so why would you miss this for the world? Each performance is absolutely jaw-dropping. The city’s theatre season begins in mid-September to late June. However, the winter and autumn are the best times to watch the remarkable ballets and operas.

The Mariinsky Theatre is the most famous musical theatre in St. Petersburg. Opened in 1860, it is one of the oldest theatres in Russia. The theatre still has one of the most impressive facilities. Outstanding performances of ballet plays such as “The Nutcracker” and “Russian Seasons” have always made their audience in awe. The Mikhailovsky Theatre is the said rival of Mariinsky Theatre. It is the oldest ballet and opera theatre in Russia. Although the building is not as impressive and luxurious as Mariinsky Theatre, it houses classic plays from the Soviet era that most of the locals love to see.

Since the Mariinsky Theatre is closed during summer, the Hermitage Theatre is the go-to theatre for most tourists. Aside from ballet performances, the theatre also hosts international music festivals and orchestra. Known for drama performances rather than ballet, Alexandrinsky Theatre claims to be one of the architectural gems in the city. The Nikolaevsky Palace and St. Petersburg Philharmonia are just two of other places where you can watch phenomenal musical and drama performances in the city.

10. Nevsky Prospekt

A 2.5-mile avenue, Nevsky Prospekt is the main avenue of St. Petersburg. Walking down this street will definitely satisfy your eyes with breath-taking architectures of significant Russian historical buildings. Stroganov Palace, Winter Palace, and Vorontsov Palace are just some of the majestic places along the avenue.

Nevsky Prospekt also claims to be the city’s central shopping street and nightlife. However, if you want to have a different and complete shopping experience, stop at Gostiny Dvor . It is the largest department store in the city and one of the first shopping malls in the world. Other famous landmarks that are along the street include Kazan Cathedral, Dom Knigi bookstore (the former headquarters of Singer company), the Admiralty, and Mertens Building . We highly suggest walking down the whole avenue from daytime to nighttime to get the whole experience of being a real city dweller when you visit St. Petersburg.

11. White Nights

As one of the world’s most northern city, St Petersburg experiences wondrous ‘white nights’ in the peak of summer. It starts in May when the arctic sun stays out late, and eventually never sets. The lack of darkness affects the very fabric of life in the city and the whole town seems to be taking part in a two-month round-the-clock celebration. The streets are alive with people right through till morning, a motley flotilla of boats cruises the rivers and canals non-stop, and the city’s nightlife is at its most active.

To experience the full splendour of these polar nights (late May to early July) when you visit St Petersburg, here are some of the activities and places for everyone. Enjoy walking around the creative hub (1) N ew Holland Island and the green spaces of (2) Summer Garden . Dip in the waters of (3) Lake Ladoga and (4) Komarova Beach . Take a midnight stroll and (5) watch the Neva Bridges open or (6) go for a canal or river cruise. Last but definitely not the least, join the Russians as they celebrate (7) Scarlet Sails.

12. Scarlet Sails Festival

In celebration of youth and to congratulate school graduates, the Scarlet Sails is an annual festival in St Petersburg. It is based on the fairy tale written by Alexander Green which celebrates love, hopes, and dreams. Scarlet Sails started in June 1968 but was suspended after a decade. However, it returned in 2005 and we promise, this biggest annual festival in Russia will be one of the best moments of your trip when you visit St Petersburg. Besides, what is a better occasion than celebrating hopes and dreams of your life? It has won multiple awards and has been considered as an international event since it attracts almost 3 million guests and tourists each year.

The festival starts at a concert on Dvortsovaya Square for school graduates. However, for non-graduates who wants to celebrates could go to Vasilievsky Island as an alternative. Then the concerts are followed by a light and water show on the Neva River after midnight. The most awaited show of the festival involves orchestra, water show, lights, pyrotechnics, and special appearances of ships sailing on the river. It usually lasts for 20-30 minutes and is always celebrated around the 15th to 25th of June every year. Make sure to check the schedule and weather before you visit St Petersburg.

13. A culinary delight for every taste

Restaurants in Russia’s second-largest city range from luxurious establishments fit for a tsar to humble cafés that serve down-to-earth traditional local food like pancakes and soups. There are countless places to explore, from traditional Russian cuisine in palatial surroundings to modern rooftop terraces serving international fusion menus.

Stroganoff Steak House is said to be the only steakhouse in the country that hand butchers and dry ages imported meats from Argentina, New Zealand and Australia. Literary Café was where Pushkin ate before his last in 1837. It serves Russian and European dishes. Russkaya Rybalka cooks only fish in various Russian cuisine. St Petersburg also serves different cuisines from all over the world. Erivan offers Armenian dishes, Francesco serves original home Italian recipes, Beau Rovage provides sophisticated French cuisine, and Ginza , one of the trendiest restaurants offers Japanese and Italian food .

For those with a tight budget, of course, you could still enjoy exploring the city with a full stomach. Tandoor is an Indian restaurant which serves Russian curries. 1818 Kafe and Bikes offers street foods such as Shawarma, pizzas, khachapuri (Georgian cheese bread), and Syrniki (sweet cheese fritters). Savour traditional and authentic Russian food in Na Zdorovye! and for sure, you’ll come back for its fresh dishes and fast service. Green Room serves big portions but affordable Blini (Russian pancakes) and other Russian meals. We also recommend Stolle Pies —a bakery chain known for their fresh savoury and sweet pies.

However, if you happen to visit St Petersburg during the summer, one of the best ways is to experience the city is to eat out at the summer terraces. Each restaurant will give you different views of the city while delighting yourself with every flavour of the food you ordered. Victoria, Artist’s Attic Fondue Bar, Mansarda, Chayka, and Mix in St Petersburg are just some of the best summer terraces we love. For sure, you’ll find more when you visit St Petersburg.

14.  St Petersburg’s glamorous nightlife

St Petersburg was the first city in the country to have the first rock club and of course, the first to adopt the clubbing culture. The city’s nightlife has one of the most varied clubs and bars in the world. From cocktail, rooftop, karaoke, sports, gay, to (of course) vodka bars, whatever floats your boat, St. Petersburg will be there for you.

Fish Fabrique is an underground club which serves cheap drinks coupled with good music. Vodka Room No. 1  as you guessed offers a wide selection of vodkas as well as traditional snacks. If you’re more of a rock and roll star, Money Honey is the pre-drink place where you can chug pints of local beers. However, you may opt to spend your whole night here as you wish. If you have a knack for cocktails, MadLabBar makes exclusive cocktails perfect for every taste bud and hosts dance parties on weekends. For a fine wine night, head to Probka and indulge sophisticated Italian food. Coyote Ugly have bartops created just for dancing. So if you’ve had enough shots or just feel like dancing, move your body and share the time of your life with Russians. If you’re into contemporary music, Stackenschneider plays electronic music and promotes various independent music talent.

15.  Visit St Petersburg, it is safe.

The city has long been free of natural disasters and terrorist attacks. Theft crimes have also been reported to have dropped in the past few years. Just make sure you’re not flashing your money everywhere you go and you’ll be free from the eyes of pickpockets when you visit St Petersburg. Apart from pickpockets, St Petersburg is definitely one of the safest cities you could travel to.

*What to pack for St Petersburg?

If you’re planning to visit St Petersburg from late May onwards, normally, the weather will be warm and humid (from +18C to +25C), but not excessively so and evenings can be cool even when the sun is still shining. It’s worth bringing at least one warm sweater. It should be pointed out that, if you’re over the age of fifteen, shorts will immediately mark you out as a tourist. Even if the weather in St Petersburg is really hot and dry, there is almost always a chance of rain, so don’t forget to take your umbrella with you. While you will find summer wear acceptable, do bring less casual attire if you plan to enter Russian Orthodox churches, which will require that men and women have their legs covered and women have their shoulders and hair covered. Evening concerts, which are prevalent during St Petersburg White Nights, will also require less casual attire than what would be worn for daytime sightseeing.

Planning to visit St Petersburg for the holidays? Check out 56th Parallel’s St. Petersburg tours  and even better, visit St Petersburg with a tour of Moscow

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Everything you need to know to prepare for a trip to st. petersburg….

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St. Petersburg Visitor Guide 2024: Everything you need to know

St Petersburg is a thriving cultural hub located on the Baltic Sea in Russia. Founded by Peter the Great, the port city has a fascinating history. It is a great tribute to the Tsarist era, boasting stunning architecture, impressive museums, and popular tourist attractions like the famous ‘Bronze Horseman’ statue. It’s the perfect introduction to Russia and everything the fabulous country has to offer. Whether you find yourself in St Petersburg alone or with travel buddies, you’re sure to have an excellent experience exploring this dynamic city.

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8 Best Ways to Experience St. Petersburg in 2024

Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, St. Petersburg is sure to beguile. The Imperial capital of Russia remains one of this vast country’s most beautiful locations, and one of the world’s most enigmatic towns. If you find yourself wanting to discover more of what St. Petersburg has to offer, no one would blame you. And these tour companies can help you get a richer experience of the city.

Best art history tours —ARTeFACTUM Tours

As the former home of the powerful czars of Russia, St. Petersburg is an art lover’s dream. The Hermitage Museum alone is one of the world’s great cultural institutions. But there’s much more to the city’s art history than just the museum. ARTeFACTUM Tours can help you get to grips with more of the city’s artistic treasures. The company offers tours that range from a half day tour to a full-blown four-day Odyssey that will satisfy even the biggest art lover. If you’re a fan of culture and artistic achievement, this is the company you need to call. Contact them at [email protected] or 7 981 700-21-91.

Best Segway tour — Happy Way Segway

Segways may not have become the futuristic mode of transport they were once touted to be, but they remain popular in the tourism industry. Intuitive to drive, these two wheeled vehicles let you see more of an area while having fun in the process. Happy Way Segway offers multiple tours, including a night tour and a day tour that will explain more about the city’s history, including its myths and legends. Plus, these vehicles will let you cover more ground without getting tired so you can see areas other tourists may not make it to. Contact Happy Way at [email protected] or 7 960 271-13-21.

Best off the beaten path tour — Best Guides -Tours in St. Petersburg

If you want to see a different side to this major city, this is the company for you. Best Guides has a tour that is devoted to seeing those parts of the city that most tourists never get to see. Additionally, they can help you explore St. Petersburg’s famous winters. If you can handle the cold, the city is at its most beautiful at this time of year. Go for a troika ride and enjoy the city way the old Russian nobility used to. And if you’re traveling with kids, Best Guides also leads a family tour full of games that will keep the kids happy and occupied while you explore the city. Contact Best Guides at [email protected] or 7 921 906-09-67.

Best highlights tour —Tailored Tours of St.Petersburg

This company offers a variety of tours that can help you not only see some of the city’s main attractions but also understand their significance and history. If you’re short on time, they also offer fast passes into some of the city’s top attractions so you can skip the long lines. Tours can be on foot or by car, letting you see more of what the city has to offer. They offer single-day or multi-day tours, so you can really immerse yourself in the attractions of the city. Contact them at [email protected] or 7 921 741-50-04.

Best Metro tour — Petersburgtrip

In most cities, the subway system is nothing more than a means to get around. However, that’s not necessarily the case in St. Petersburg. This Russian city is home to some of the world’s most beautiful Metro stations, and you can explore them on a tour with Petersburgtrip. Learn about the history and hidden secrets of the city’s metro stations as you travel from one to another on this quirky and fascinating tour. The company also offers a range of different tours, including a private tour that will pre-book some of the city’s top attractions for you so that all you need to do is show up. Contact Petersburgtrip at [email protected] or 7 921 385-02-50.

Best shore excursions — City Break Tours St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg owes much of its historical significance to its port. To this day, it remains a popular cruise destination. City Break Tours can help you explore the city from the water, whether you arrived by cruise ship or by plane. The company offers boat tours as well as walking and car tours, so you can explore the city in any way you choose. Take a cruise through the port along with the city’s extensive network of canals, or head to shore for a walking tour and explore the top sites of St. Petersburg. Contact them at [email protected] or 7 964 333-33-66.

Best night tour – I Love Travel St.Petersburg

St. Petersburg can feel like a different city at night. And given its northern latitude, depending what time of year you visit, nights can be very long or very short. If you want to see the city lit up and at its most atmospheric, this company can help. They offer night tours that will take you to all the most photogenic locations in the city. You can take a walking tour through the illuminated streets at night, or see the lights of the city with a boat tour of the harbor. Additionally, they can make your trip easier by picking you up directly from your hotel or cruise ship to explore the city. Contact them at [email protected] or 7 812 931-87-27.

Best car tour —Spbmania

If you want to see as much of the city as possible while remaining comfortable, a car tour can make things easier. Spbmania offers car tours of the city that will take you to all the major attractions and help you understand their significance. If you want to stretch your legs, they also offer walking tours. Either way, this company makes it easy to understand more about St. Petersburg. With a wide range of tours based around different interests, they are sure to have something you’ll like. Take your significant other on a romantic tour of the city, or explore the history of Faberge. See the major museums of St. Petersburg, or celebrate the life of Russia’s national poet Pushkin. Whatever you like to do, this company can provide it. Contact them at [email protected] or 7 812 960-29-69.

A weekend in St Petersburg

If you only have a weekend in St Petersburg, you’ll want to pack it full of activities. There’s so much to see and do in this city, so pack your walking shoes and get ready to hit the streets. Make the most of every moment by avoiding inconveniences like a late check-in. Instead, store your bags with a luggage storage service in St Petersburg so you can get out in the city as soon as you arrive.

If you’re looking for ideas to fill your itinerary, these are some of the must-do attractions:

• Peterhof - This royal palace is surrounded by stunning gardens that are definitely worth a visit. Located right on the waterfront, you’ll be impressed by the views.
• Saint Hermitage Museum - Saint Hermitage Museum is one of the five largest museums in the world and you will be impressed by the sheer size of its collection. With a range of educational exhibitions and fine art museums, it’s definitely a must-see.
• Winter Palace - Just the name sounds romantic, but wait until you see the actual building! Another great museum with lots of impressive art.

St Petersburg Lockers

St Petersburg is a popular tourist destination so it’s well set up to cater to visitors. One of its convenient facilities is suitcase storage in St Petersburg that offers tourists a place to keep their belongings if faced with an early check-in, late check-out, or some other situation where you don’t have a place to drop your luggage. You can even hire a locker if you’ve indulged in too much retail therapy and don’t want to waste time heading back to your accommodation! Whatever the case, storage services make travel around St Petersburg so much easier. 

Off the beaten path in St Petersburg

Looking to see a different side of St Petersburg? Head away from the main tourist circuit to seek out these hidden gems. We promise it will be worth it!

• Izmailovksy Garden - While this site doesn’t make a lot of must-visit lists, it definitely should. Take a stroll around the place and admire the different ways the city has paid tribute to citizens who survived wars and poverty under the Soviet Union.
• The Poland Garden - Located behind the Catholic Cathedral, this garden is the perfect place for some fresh air. Make sure to find the picturesque bridge for the perfect photo.
• Brusnitsyn Mansion - This extravagant building dates back to 1884. It is worth visiting for its eclectic style and extensive history. 

What to do alone in St Petersburg

St Petersburg is a great destination for solo travelers. It’s relatively safe, has an array of interesting attractions, and there’s also plenty of places to meet people if you are so inclined. Just remember to make the most of local facilities like bag storage in St Petersburg to remove any hassles from your trip.

We’ve put together a list of some attractions that are suited to solo travelers.

• Nevsky Avenue - This well-known street is worth a wander. It’s the main street in the city, offering lots of opportunities for admiring the architecture and doing some people watching.
• Russian Museum - Sometimes visiting a museum on your own is a better way to reflect and engage with the content. You’ll certainly find yourself lost in the exhibitions at the Russian Museum.
• Savior of the Spilled Blood - This church dates back to the 1880s and displays classic orthodox design. Head to the site to admire the colors and traditional architecture. 

The best souvenirs in St Petersburg

There’s no shortage of options when it comes to souvenir shopping in St Petersburg. Find something for yourself or friends back home by strolling down Nevsky Avenue and making stops at any one of the typical souvenir stores. The Matryoshka dolls are a great purchase if you are looking for something cultural. For the food lover in your life, consider Russian caviar or local chocolates. Precious stones and beautiful jewelry can be found at the Exclusive Amber Collection, while the Imperial Porcelain Manufactory has some unique pieces that make perfect mementos.

Visit St.Petersburg

Dear Ladies and Gentlemen, travelers and guests of Russia, my friends and friends of my friends!

I’m happy to represent myself and my best friends – professional guides in Saint-Petersburg and surroundings!

I’m Svetlana Ulyanova, a professional English-speaking licensed guide in Saint-Petersburg, Russia!

My friends and me is the team of people who have enormous love for the city and speak different languages! All of us are licensed and have all the necessary permissions!

Russian day of Love

Today is Saint-Valentine’s day. Now we started to celebrate it for fun, the restaurants are busy on this day, but is it just for fun but it is not Russian but a catholic tradition to celebrate this day. We also make special Day of Love city tours (me too). Russian day of Love takes place on the on the 8 th of July, the memory day of Saint Prince Peter and his wife Fevronia , they are patrons Saint of family and marriage according to Russian orthodox tradition and called the day of Family, Love and Fidelity . And you can see the difference it is not just love but Family and Fidelity.The symbol is not the heart but the flower of chamomile .

The love and life story of Peter and Fevronia inspires me. This is a strange story and as soon as the people are Saint it is difficult to comment. Please, judge for yourself.

Useful, strange, exiting and important facts about Saint-Petersburg

Saint-Petersburg is a really strange and interesting city!

It was artificially founded by our tsar Peter the 1 st in the year 1703, against the nature and notwithstanding the regular floods on the swamp as everybody knows. At the same time we know that there already were some villages and fortress where especially strong and crazy people lived.

More Articles ...

• Names and Nicknames of Saint-Petersburg

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Putin and the ‘Petersburg set’: The secret life of a Russian leader

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In March, 100 million Russians and a further 6 million living in occupied Ukrainian territory got a taste of what democracy, Vladimir Putin-style , looks like – which is, as the droll Russian saying has it, “an election without a choice”.

The sense of inevitability of the result, alongside the near-total concentration of power in the Kremlin , means that the opposition had already been dealt a death blow. Literally so, in the case of Alexei Navalny , the charismatic dissident who died of mysterious causes in an Arctic prison camp in February.

The intimidation is spreading: Navalny’s close ally Leonid Volkov was attacked a few months ago with a hammer in Lithuania, in what he termed a “gangster greeting from the Kremlin” who “wanted to make a schnitzel out of me”.

But what does this grim state of affairs tell us about the mind and mood of a man who ascended from the rough and tumble of St Petersburg politics to the Kremlin in 2000, and whose career I have watched closely since the declining years of Boris Yeltsin – when Putin leveraged the political and economic chaos to arrive in the top job as a “cuckoo in the nest”, as one dismissive Yeltsin ally put it?

A quarter of a century on, Russia ’s unhappy nest is firmly in his grip, and now comes with a new strand of overt aggression.

Putin’s KGB background and suspicion-prone personality mean that he is attracted to “might is right” doctrines of power. He also busies himself for hours reading the works of Russian thinkers touting the “Eurasia” thesis, which describes, as Putin puts it, “a unique country-civilisation and a vast Eurasian and Euro-Pacific power”. This is the grandiosity that now underpins Putin’s view of Russia as an exceptional country with entitlements to match, but his international ambitions contrast starkly with his narrow circle at home.

The most consistent people around the president are Igor Sechin, who heads the vast Rosneft state oil concern, and Nikolai Patrushev, a former head of the FSB spy agency and now the secretary of the Security Council of Russia, whose anti-Americanism is said to outstrip even Putin’s growing paranoia.

Like Putin, Patrushev is steeped in a KGB background of disinformation – abetted by Sergei Naryshkin, the head of Russia’s foreign intelligence agency, the SVR. But the war in Ukraine has shown that even these ties can fray abruptly. Putin often indulges a public mean streak, subjecting high officials to open humiliation if they stray off message or if his desires have proven hard to fulfil.

As an example, Naryshkin was openly bullied by the president at a hearing in 2022. As the intelligence titan appeared to hesitate in recommending the full integration of Russian-held areas in Donetsk and eastern Ukraine, Putin snapped “Speak plainly” to his stuttering ally. “So, you want to negotiate with them – or what?” The awkward encounter was intended to show that no title or record is ever enough to guarantee invulnerability.

Putin’s world is overwhelmingly a man’s one. In the routine hearings of senior officials and televised video calls with the regional chiefs, you see circles of men, between 60 and their mid-seventies, attempting to outdo each other in praising the 71-year-old leader.

Women are seen as being useful for propaganda purposes; most prominently Margarita Simonyan, a strong Kremlin supporter who rose to become editor-in-chief of the state broadcaster Russia Today and now acts as lead propagandist on the main TV and video channels. As a report by the state department puts it, “serving up lies as truth – with a smile”.

Part of the personal Putin mythology is that he is so devoted to his work that, leaving aside the carefully choreographed images of him on horseback, swimming or playing ice hockey, there is little time for a social life or real friendships.

Personal alliances tend to reach back to his years as an aide to the powerful and corruption-prone mayor of St Petersburg, Anatoly Sobchak – the “Petersburg set” keep seats at the top table. Other long-standing “friends” are often closely tied to financial dealings, like the billionaire brothers Boris and Arkady Rotenberg.

His personal life is well guarded. Putin has reportedly been in a relationship with the former Olympic rhythmic gymnast Alina Kabaeva since 2008, although he remained married to his second wife Lyudmila Ocheretnaya until 2014.

He has had speech training, according to a linguistics and dialect coach, to break the habit of rat-a-tat short sentences, which cloaked his nervousness in his early years in politics

Kabaeva, with her erstwhile public profile as a glamorous sports icon, artlessly fielded questions in 2008 about her relationship with the Russian leader with a simple statement about his being “a wonderful man, a great man”.

But that period of unguarded comment has long ended: Kabaeva entered the Putin power apparatus, serving in the Russian parliament and signing hardline legislation, including laws opposing the adoption of Russian children by foreigners. She has since taken a board role in the National Media Group on a multimillion-pound salary, despite having no previous media experience. Those close to Putin are rewarded richly. Kabaeva’s sister was given a plum legal post in Tatarstan (her family is half Tatar).

Putin doesn’t see the need for an official role of “first lady”, much to the frustration of some. When I interviewed Alla Verber, the legendary fashion buyer dubbed the Russian “fairy godmother of fashion”, before her death in 2022, and asked her how the Kremlin did its clothes shopping (Putin and Kabaeva both have a taste for luxury, from watches to fur), she was frustrated at the lack of a first lady to dress in public.

“I’ve never seen anyone from over there,” she sighed, gesturing towards Red Square. “But they send people over for things. Not like it was with Raisa Gorbacheva – now, that was a first lady!”

Paranoid about his privacy being invaded, Putin has forced the closure of media outlets that reported on his relationship and the size of his family – he appears to have six children, from the two long-term relationships and one fling, but has never confirmed this.

One broadside was that he “always despised those who stick their snotty noses in personal business to gratify their erotic fantasies”. Note the authentically coarse tone of the “street” language that Putin resorts to when he is roused to anger.  He has had speech training, according to a linguistics and dialect coach, to break the habit of rat-a-tat short sentences, which cloaked his nervousness in his early years in politics.

He now speaks in polished Russian, with a hint of Petersburg inflection. The “real” Putin, however, resorts rapidly to the uncouth language of his youth and KGB heritage – talking of “flushing enemies down the toilet”, for example, which is seen by many as a crude euphemism for assassinations.

Putin has never been comfortable outside Russia – or with Russians who reside for too long in the West. One native celebrity who has long jetted between her homeland and Western Europe tells me that, for Putin, “not living full-time in Russia is already a suspicious sign”.

Another former media magnate who lives in the UK recalls how, during a conversation with the president a few years ago about an old acquaintance from Moscow who was marrying an English woman, Putin barked: “Why does he have to do that? When we have thousands of beautiful women of our own.”

Putin’s tendency towards suspicious thinking has intensified since the lockdown. His paranoia about catching Covid was so intense that guests had to sit at an absurdly long table, and his own teams were made to shower with disinfectant in tunnels beneath the Kremlin before meetings.

His personal wealth and resources are astronomical – and his deadly conflict with Navalny was fed by his opponent’s team’s collation of embarrassing videos about the vast “Putin’s palace” complex on the Black Sea, paid for by oligarchs reliant on Putin’s goodwill. However, there is scant indication that Putin spends time there.

Some formerly close oligarchs speculate that, given the advanced security system, the no-fly zone around the complex and the private sea access, it is intended as a “last resort” hideaway, to be used in the event that Putin is ever removed from power or needs to leave the country. If that sounds like a distant prospect, it is worth remembering that very few Kremlin leaders have left their positions of their own volition.

The Russian elections remind us that all meaningful power in Russia now sits in the hands of one man – who is both unaccountable and ageing. The constitution was fixed to allow the Kremlin leader to stand for a fifth term – with a possible extension in 2030. But an end will one day come. When I ask one London-based oligarch what he thinks will happen after Putin, he replies simply: “After Putin, more Putin.”

Anne McElvoy is the executive editor of Politico and the host of the weekly ‘Power Play’ podcast

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2024 UEFA Champions League final: All you need to know

Friday, July 14, 2023

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The 2023/24 UEFA Champions League final will take place at London's historic Wembley Stadium.

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The best of the best will be crowned on the ultimate stage when the 2023/24 UEFA Champions League season concludes at London's prestigious Wembley Stadium on Saturday 1 June.

This is the 69th season of Europe's elite club competition and the 32nd since it was renamed the UEFA Champions League.

Where is the Champions League final?

The highlight of European football's club calendar returns to the London venue for a record eighth time, and the third in the UEFA Champions League era following the 2011 and 2013 finals.

Wembley has undergone a massive transformation since it hosted the last old-style European Champion Clubs' Cup final in 1992 , the famous twin towers arena making way for a new venue symbolised by the gigantic arch. Boasting a seated capacity of around 90,000, the new Wembley reopened its doors in 2007 and is once again home to the England national side, as well as host to the nation's premier domestic cup finals.

Upcoming Champions League finals

2024 : Wembley Stadium, London 2025 : Fussball Arena München, Munich

Known as the 'Home of Football', Wembley has hosted seven European Cup finals – more than any other stadium. AC Milan defeated Benfica 2-1 in Wembley's first European final in 1963 before Manchester United became the competition's first English winners thanks to their 4-1 extra-time triumph against the same Portuguese side in 1968.

In 1971, Ajax beat Panathinaikos 2-0 to lift the trophy for the first time, and there was also a 1-0 victory for Liverpool against Club Brugge in 1978. Barcelona then won their first European Cup there in 1992 with a 1-0 extra-time defeat of Sampdoria , and claimed the trophy for the fourth time in 2011 after overcoming Manchester United 3-1 . Finally, Bayern beat Dortmund 2-1 in the all-German decider in 2013.

Wembley Stadium hosted all three of England's Group D games at UEFA EURO 2020 , as well as two round of 16 matches, both semi-finals and the final itself , with the hosts only denied their maiden triumph in the competition on penalties against Italy. The outcome was more successful for England at UEFA Women's EURO 2022, as the Lionesses overcame Germany 2-1 after extra time to become European champions for the first time.

The original Wembley Stadium, known as the Empire Stadium, was built as the centrepiece of a British Empire Exhibition a few years after the First World War, and was first opened in April 1923. It would serve as the focal point of English football until 2000, being demolished in 2003 to make way for the current structure.

The old Wembley hosted the 1948 Olympic Games and the final of EURO '96 but, from an English perspective, unquestionably its finest hour came on 30 July 1966, when Geoff Hurst scored a hat-trick to inspire England to a 4-2 extra-time win against West Germany in the FIFA World Cup final.

Who is playing in the Champions League final?

The finalists will be confirmed after the semi-final second legs on 7/8 May.

How to watch the Champions League final

Details of where to watch the Champions League final will appear here.

Champions League final format

If the score is level at the end of normal time, two 15-minute periods of extra time are played. If one of the teams scores more goals than the other during extra time, that team is declared the winner. If the score remains level after extra time, the winner is determined by a penalty shoot-out.

Who is the referee for the Champions League final?

The refereeing team will be announced in the lead-up to the final.

Where are the other 2024 club competition finals?

2024 Europa League final : Dublin Arena, Dublin, Republic of Ireland 2024 Women's Champions League final : San Mamés Stadium, Bilbao, Spain 2024 Europa Conference League final : AEK Arena, Athens, Greece

What do the Champions League winners get?

The UEFA Champions League trophy stands 73.5cm tall and weighs 7.5kg. "It may not be an artistic masterpiece, but everybody in football is keen to get their hands on it," said creator Jürg Stadelmann.

The winners will also earn the right to play against the winners of the 2023/24 UEFA Europa League in the 2024 UEFA Super Cup.