St Petersburg 2 Day Itinerary

St. Petersburg: A 2-Day Whirlwind Itinerary

This itinerary is a whirlwind tour focusing on the highlights of St. Petersburg. For a longer trip, consider adding more time for specific museums, palaces, or neighborhoods that pique your interest.

Day 1: Imperial Splendor

  • Morning:

    • Start your day with a visit to the Hermitage Museum, exploring masterpieces like The Hermitage, by Leonardo da Vinci and works by renowned Russian artists.
      • Transportation: Take the metro (line 1 or 2) to Nevsky Prospekt station.
    • Things to know: The Hermitage is vast! This itinerary focuses on the Winter Palace portion of the museum, which houses a significant collection of European art and some Russian historical artifacts.

  • Afternoon:

    • Enjoy lunch at Cafe Literary Cafe, a charming cafe with a menu inspired by Russian literature.
    • Afterwards, visit the Peterhof Palace, exploring its magnificent gardens and fountains.

  • Evening:

    • Take in a performance at the Mariinsky Theatre.
    • Indulge in a traditional Russian dinner at Restaurant “Palkin” known for its elegant ambiance and authentic cuisine.

Possible Itinerary Options:

  • Hermitage & Peterhof (Classic):

    • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Visit the Hermitage, focusing on specific rooms or exhibits that interest you. The palace is incredibly large, so pick and choose!
    • 1:00 PM - Lunch at Cafe Pushkin (Nevsky Prospekt) for a taste of classic Russian cuisine in a beautiful setting.

  • Church & Hermitage (Art Focused):

    • Enjoy the opulent architecture and history of the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood.
    • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Explore the Hermitage, focusing on specific rooms or exhibits that interest you, like the Golden Gate or the Hermitage’s extensive art collection.

Day 2: Imperial Splendor & Beyond

  • Morning: Visit the Catherine Palace in Pushkin (Tsarskoye Selo) and explore its famed Amber Room.

    • Transportation: Take a taxi (about 30 minutes from St. Petersburg city center) or public transport (marshrutka #224, bus routes, or train) to the Peterhof Palace and then take a leisurely stroll through the gardens.

  • Afternoon: Explore the Peter and Paul Fortress, enjoy a boat tour on the Neva River and experience the beauty of the city from the water.

    • Transportation: Walk, bike, or take public transport to reach the Neva River for your afternoon cruise.

Day 1: St. Petersburg’s Architectural Wonders

  • Things to know:

    • The Peter and Paul Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to museums showcasing its history as a military fortress and royal palace.
    • Peterhof is located in the suburbs of St. Petersburg (about 30 minutes by train) and features stunning gardens and fountains.
    • The Hermitage Theatre (located on the grounds of the Winter Palace) offers a variety of performances, including ballet and opera.

  • Evening:

Explore the city’s vibrant nightlife with a performance at the Mikhailovsky Theatre.

  • Things to know:

    • The Hermitak is known for its opulent interiors and elaborate fountains.
    • The Neva River cruises are a fantastic way to see the city’s waterways and admire the beautiful architecture of the city.

Possible things to see on a 2-Day St. Petersburg Trip:

  • The Hermitage Museum (Winter Palace): Explore the Winter Palace, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, and its vast collection of art and artifacts, including the famous Amber Room.

  • Peterhof’s Gardens: Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the gardens at the Peterhof Summer Residence.

  • The Peter and Paul Fortress: Discover the history of this 18th-century fortress and its role as a symbol of Russian power and resilience.

  • St. Isaac’s Cathedral: The magnificent golden dome is a must-see!

Food & Drink:

  • Nevsky Prospekt: Explore the vibrant cafes, restaurants, and bakeries lining the city’s canals.

  • Restaurant “Palkin”: Enjoy a traditional Russian meal with a view of the city at this delightful restaurant.

  • The Vodka Museum: For an evening in St. Petersburg, you can enjoy a variety of different experiences.

Where to stay:

  • Nevsky Grand Hotel: This luxurious hotel is located in the heart of St. Petersburg, near many of the attractions listed above.

  • Budget-friendly options: Consider staying in hostels or budget hotels in the Nevsky Prospekt area for easy access to the city’s charm and cultural offerings.

  • Luxury: The Hermitage Museum offers a variety of luxurious accommodations within its walls.

  • Mid-Range: For a unique experience, stay in a historic hotel near the palaces and museums of St. Petersburg.

  • Budget: Stay in a hostel or budget hostel for a more affordable option, while still being close to the action.

Things to note:

  • Accommodation options are plentiful and varied in St. Petersburg.
  • Consider booking in advance for popular hotels and attractions.
  • Explore the many restaurants and cafes along Nevsky Prospekt.