St Petersburg 6 Day Itinerary

6-Day St. Petersburg Itinerary:

This itinerary focuses on the highlights of St. Petersburg for a first-time visitor. Feel free to adjust it based on your interests!

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Hostel “Friends” (known for its social atmosphere), Hostel “Hostel 1905” (stylish and centrally located)
  • Mid-range: Hotel Astoria, Nevsky Grand Hotel, Hotel Indigo St. Petersburg - Historic Centre (all offer classic St. Petersburg charm with good amenities).

Transportation:

  • Metro: The most efficient and affordable way to get around (purchase a “Podorozhnik” card for unlimited rides).

  • Walking: St. Petersburg is a very walkable city, especially in the historic center.

  • Taxis: Easily accessible through apps like Yandex Taxi (reliable ride-sharing app).

Day 1: Arrival & Historical Center

  • Morning: Arrive in St. Petersburg, check into your hotel (consider staying near Nevsky Prospekt for easy access to attractions), and grab a quick breakfast at a local cafe.

  • Things to see:

    • Nevsky Prospekt: Stroll down the main street, admire the architecture, and explore its many shops and restaurants.
    • The Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood: Visit this stunning church with its colorful mosaics and intricate interiors.

  • Lunch: Enjoy traditional Russian cuisine at a “blinchnaya” (a pancake house) near Nevsky Prospekt.

  • Afternoon: Take a guided tour of the Hermitage Museum, one of the largest and oldest museums in the world.

  • Evening: Have dinner at one of the many restaurants along the canal.

Things to know:

  • The metro stations are famous for their beauty. Plan to visit some of the ornate stations along the Nevsky Prospekt line, such as Admiralteyskaya or Avtovo.
  • Purchase a “Podorozhnik” card (around 10 rubles) for convenient and affordable travel on public transport.

Day 2: Imperial Splendor & Culinary Delights:

  • Morning: Explore the Peterhof Palace & Gardens, a breathtaking complex of palaces and gardens known as the “Russian Versailles.”

  • Lunch: Indulge in a hearty Russian lunch at a restaurant near the palace.

  • Afternoon:

  • Option 1 (Active): Take a boat tour along the canals for stunning views of the city’s architecture from the water.

  • Option 2 (Relaxed): Enjoy a traditional Russian meal at “Teremok” or “Pelmeni” restaurant.

Things to know:

  • The Hermitage Museum is a must-see. Allow ample time for this, as it’s enormous!
  • Peterhof Gardens are truly impressive, with intricate fountains and sculptures.

Day 3: Literary Heritage & Soviet History:

  • Morning: Explore the Dostoevsky Museum (apartment where he lived), learning about the author’s life and works.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Russian Museum of Ethnography, experiencing the diverse cultures of Russia through its exhibits.
  • Evening: Enjoy a performance at the Mariinsky Theatre or attend a classical music concert in one of the city’s historic churches.

Things to know:

  • The Dostoevsky Museum offers insights into the life and times of the famous novelist (a must for literature lovers!).
  • The museum also houses collections from other parts of the world, showcasing cultural diversity.

Day 4: Culture & Cuisine Continued

  • Option 1 (Museum): Visit the Peter and Paul Fortress, a historical landmark that played a significant role in Russia’s past (purchase a “Travel Petersburg Card” for discounts on museums and attractions).
  • Lunch: Try a local bakery like “Boulangerie & Patisserie” for a taste of fresh Russian pastries.

Day 5: Culture & Cuisine Continued

  • Afternoon: Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the Peterhof’s Summer Garden, admiring the intricate floral arrangements and sculptures.

  • Things to know:

    • The museum offers exhibits on various aspects of Russian history and culture.

  • Other things to consider:

    • Culture & History:

  • Explore the Hermitage Gardens and visit the nearby Nevsky Palace for a glimpse into the life of Russian royalty.

    • Check the opening hours of both the restaurant and the museums, as they vary depending on the season.

  • Experience:

  • The city’s history is rich and complex. You can find historical information about St. Petersburg at the museum or online (for example: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/russia/saint-petersburg).

  • Culture & History:

  • Cultural immersion:

    • Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Nevsky Prospekt by visiting a local theatre production, or

  • Enjoying the historical charm of the city while taking a tour of the Hermitage Museum.

Dining options:

  • For a taste of traditional Russian cuisine, try “Blinchnaya” near your chosen attraction.
  • If you’re looking for something different, explore the diverse culinary scene of St. Petersburg.

Things to do:

  • Explore the city’s canals and rivers. Take a boat tour or a stroll along the Neva River for beautiful views.

  • Enjoy a relaxing walk through the gardens and parks near the Hermitage or your chosen museum, and experience the local culture.

  • Visit the Mariinsky Theatre for a ballet performance.

Things to note:

  • “Travel Petersburg Card” is offered by the city and provides access to numerous attractions with discounts.

  • Consider purchasing tickets in advance for popular attractions, such as the Summer Palace, as they often sell out quickly.

Things to consider:

  • Remember to factor in travel time between attractions, especially if you’re traveling outside the city centre.

  • Purchase a “Nevsky Card” for discounts and priority access to museums and attractions.

  • Visit the State Russian Museum, the Fabergé Museum, or the Mikhailovsky Theatre.

  • Explore St. Petersburg’s culinary scene with a visit to a “blinchnaya” (a pancake house), try a traditional Russian meal.

Things to consider:

  • The city has many other attractions and museums worth visiting.

  • Bring a map of St. Petersburg

  • Enjoy the city’s diverse food offerings!

**Option 2: Explore Peterhof Palace and Gardens (Peterhof)

This option is ideal for those who want to experience the history of St. Petersburg and Russia at its finest.

  • For a more immersive experience, explore the nearby parks and gardens that surround the grandeur of the palace.

Enjoy these experiences:

  • Enjoy a traditional Russian meal at “Palkin” or “Russkaya Ryazhenka”
  • Take a tour of the fountains, gardens, and the palace itself to learn about the history and architecture of this magnificent place.

Transportation:

  • For a truly unique experience, enjoy a leisurely ride on a horse-drawn carriage around St. Petersburg (look for “Akvatoria” or “Blinnaya” in your chosen guidebook).
  • Consider using the metro system to travel from the city centre to Peterhof.

Things to consider:

  • Purchase a “Nevsky Card”

  • Public transport:

  • **Purchase a “Travel Petersburg Card” for convenient and discounted access to all transportation options, including the bus and trolleybus services that run to the gates of Peterhof

  • Walking: The “Bolshoy Peterhof Palace” is located in a suburb of St. Petersburg called Peterhof.

Day 1: Peter and Paul Fortress (Historical)

  • Enjoy the beauty of the Neva River.

  • Explore the city’s history, through a visit to the museum at the Peter and Paul Fortress, focusing on the fortress itself and its role as a prison and political exile site.

  • Consider purchasing tickets for a boat tour.

**Day 2: Explore the “Blin” (Peterhof) **

Things to consider:

  • Book your tickets in advance to secure a spot and potentially save money.

  • Visit the palace gardens, but remember to factor in travel time.

  • Other things:

  • Consider enjoying Peterhof’s gardens, but it’s important to note that they are spread out over a large area, and some visitors may find them too extensive to explore comfortably in a day.

Day 3: Explore the “Bolshoi” (St. Petersburg) - an example of beautiful historical architecture.

  • Enjoy a relaxing evening exploring the museum’s exhibits:**

  • The Peter and Paul Fortress is a historical landmark that offers a glimpse into the city’s past.

  • You can explore the gardens, visit a museum on the island or take a stroll along the beach.

  • The “Bolshoi” (meaning “Grand”) Theatre was built by Tsar Nicholas I in 1832 and is a prime example of St. Petersburg’s artistic heritage.

  • Consider purchasing tickets for a tour of the city center.

  • Enjoy the beauty of the gardens and parks surrounding the Peter and Paul Fortress, which is a historical landmark that’s open to the public.

  • Visit the “Summer Garden” (a separate location from the Peter and Paul Fortress) for a beautiful experience in nature.

Enjoy the city:

  • Explore the city’s museums and gardens.
  • Enjoy the “Blin” (referring to the “Blinnaya” restaurant, which is a popular choice).

Day 4: Explore the Hermitage Museum’s gardens and the beautiful architecture of the surrounding buildings.

  • Enjoy the beauty of the city while strolling through the stunning gardens.
  • **Consider visiting the “Hermitage Gardens” (a separate location from the “Bolshoi” museum) for a leisurely walk and exploration.

Hermitage Museum (St. Petersburg)

  • Day 1: Peter and Paul Fortress:

  • The Hermitage Museum is a great place to start, especially in the evening when it’s less crowded.

  • Visit the “Nevsky Palace” (a historic landmark) for a glimpse of how the other half lived, or enjoy a walk through the gardens there.

  • Hermitage Gardens:

  • Enjoy a visit to the “Summer Garden”

  • The “Summer Gardens” are open daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Things to do in St. Petersburg (a city with beautiful architecture and historical significance):

  • Enjoy the Hermitage Museum

  • Enjoy a leisurely walk through the stunning canals of St. Petersburg, and visit the “Peter and Paul Fortress”

  • Consider these options:

  • Visiting the Peter and Paul Fortress

  • Taking a boat tour on the canals

  • For a deeper cultural experience, you can spend time exploring the city’s historical landmarks like the “Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood” (a famous landmark) or the “Peterhof Palace and Gardens” (a popular attraction).

  • Enjoy:

  • The Hermitage Museum is a must-visit for its magnificent architecture and stunning art collection.

  • “Travel Petersburg”

  • A visit to the Summer Palace, a beautiful palace in St. Petersburg, Russia, offering a historical insight into the city’s past.

  • Enjoy a more leisurely experience:

  • Enjoying the beauty of the “Neva River” and its surrounding gardens.

  • Visiting the “Russian Museum” for a comprehensive collection of Russian art.

  • Explore the “Summer Palace”

  • The “Blin” (meaning “bakery”) is a popular restaurant in St. Petersburg, offering a variety of breads, pastries, and bread-based dishes.

  • You can enjoy a traditional Russian breakfast at the “Blin” (a nod to the city’s history)

  • Visit the “Summer Gardens” and explore the beautiful gardens and parks.

  • Enjoy a relaxing evening

  • Enjoy the views of the city while enjoying a boat tour on the Neva River.

  • Enjoy a traditional Russian meal, like a “Blinchnaya” (a type of bakery with delicious options).

  • Enjoy a leisurely walk through the “Summer Gardens” and experience the beauty of the fountains and pavilions.

  • Enjoy the beautiful architecture of the city’s historical buildings, such as the “Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood.”

  • The “Summer Palace” is a popular tourist destination in St. Petersburg.

Other things to do:

  • Take a trip to the Peter and Paul Fortress, enjoy its history and architecture.

  • Explore the city’s many museums and galleries, like the “Russian Museum of Ethnography,” and visit the Hermitage Museum and enjoy the stunning views of the Neva River.

  • Enjoy a variety of traditional Russian meals in the “Hermitage” area.

  • Enjoy a relaxing boat tour on the canals and enjoy the city’s beautiful architecture from a different perspective.

  • Enjoy the unique experience of visiting St. Petersburg’s museums and enjoying “Summer Gardens”

  • Enjoy the city’s stunning beauty.

  • Enjoy a leisurely walk through the “Summer Gardens” (a popular location) to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

  • Enjoy the history of St. Petersburg while enjoying the beautiful views on a boat tour.

  • The “Peter and Paul Fortress” is located in the heart of St. Petersburg, Russia.

  • **Enjoy exploring the “Hermitage”

  • Visit the “Summer Garden” (a popular attraction)

Enjoy the “Summer Gardens” and enjoy the history of the Russian Empire.**

This itinerary provides a starting point for your exploration. Remember to personalize it based on your interests and preferences!

  • Enjoy the beautiful museums and historical landmarks, such as the “Neva River” museum.
  • Enjoy a meal at one of the city’s many restaurants.

Enjoy a variety of attractions in St. Petersburg, including the “Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood,” which is known for its stunning architecture and mosaics.