St Petersburg Russia 3 Day Itinerary

St. Petersburg Itinerary: 3 Days of Imperial Splendor

This itinerary balances iconic sights with local experiences, perfect for first-time visitors.

Things to Know:

  • Visa: Most nationalities require a visa to enter Russia. Apply well in advance!
  • Language: Russian is the official language. Learn basic phrases or use a translation app.
  • Currency: Ruble (RUB). Credit cards are accepted in most places, but carry cash for smaller vendors and markets.

Transportation:

  • Metro: Efficient and affordable, with ornate stations. Purchase a Troika card for easy travel.
  • Bus/Trolleybus: Extensive network covering the city.
  • Taxi: Yandex Taxi app is reliable and offers transparent pricing.
  • Walking: St. Petersburg is pedestrian-friendly, especially in the historic center.

Accommodation (Recommendations):

  • Budget: Hostel Friends on Nevsky, Nevskiy Podvornuy Hotel
  • Mid-Range: Angleterre Hotel, Sokos Palace Bridge
  • Luxury: Kempinski Hotel Moika 22, Four Seasons Hotel Lion Palace St Petersburg

Day 1: Imperial Grandeur

  • Morning:

    • Visit the Hermitage Museum, one of the world’s largest and most renowned art museums. Book tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.
    • Stroll through the beautiful Palace Square, admiring the Winter Palace, General Staff Building, and Alexander Column.

  • Afternoon:

    • Explore the opulent Catherine Palace in Pushkin (Peterhof), known for its Amber Room and stunning gardens. Take a hydrofoil or suburban train from St. Petersburg.

  • Evening:

    • Enjoy dinner at Restaurant “Terrassa” for delicious Russian cuisine with stunning views of the city.

Day 2: Waterways & Culture

  • Morning:

    • Embark on a scenic canal cruise, admiring St. Petersburg’s bridges, palaces, and churches from the water.

  • Afternoon:

    • Visit the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, a colorful masterpiece with stunning mosaics.

    • Explore the Peter and Paul Fortress, the birthplace of the city, housing the Cathedral where Russian Emperors are buried.

  • Evening:

    • Experience the vibrant nightlife in the Nevsky Prospekt area, with numerous bars, restaurants, and cafes to choose from.

Day 3: Art & History

  • Morning:

    • Visit the Russian Museum, showcasing a vast collection of Russian art from different periods.

  • Afternoon:

    • Explore the Peterhof Grand Palace and its magnificent gardens with fountains and sculptures.

  • Evening:

    • Indulge in a traditional Russian dinner at “Gostievo” restaurant, known for its authentic atmosphere and cuisine.
    • Enjoy a performance at the Mariinsky Theatre, one of the world’s leading opera and ballet houses (book tickets in advance).

Tips:

  • Pack Layers: St. Petersburg weather can be unpredictable.

  • Learn Basic Russian Phrases: Even a few words like “hello” (“Здравствуйте”) and “thank you” (“Спасибо”) will go a long way.

  • Be Aware of Scams: Be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or tours.

  • Enjoy the Parks: St. Petersburg has many beautiful parks, perfect for relaxing and soaking up the atmosphere.

  • Try Local Specialties: Don’t miss out on traditional dishes like borscht, pelmeni (dumplings), and blini (pancakes).