Things to Do in St Petersburg Russia

Exploring the Imperial Charm of St. Petersburg: A Guide for Tourists

St. Petersburg, Russia’s cultural heart and former imperial capital, is a city overflowing with history, art, and architectural wonders. If you’re planning a trip to this vibrant metropolis, here are some highlights to help you plan your itinerary:

Historical Landmarks:

  • The Hermitage Museum: One of the world’s largest and oldest museums, housing an incredible collection of over 3 million works of art and artifacts from across the globe. Explore masterpieces by Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Rembrandt, and many more.
  • Peterhof Palace: Known as the “Russian Versailles,” this opulent palace and its sprawling gardens offer a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the Russian aristocracy. Don’t miss the spectacular Grand Cascade!
  • Catherine Palace: This magnificent baroque palace, located in Tsarskoye Selo (Pushkin), is famous for its gilded Amber Room.
  • St. Isaac’s Cathedral: A stunning architectural masterpiece with a breathtaking interior and an impressive dome.

Cultural Experiences:

  • Attend a ballet performance at the Mariinsky Theatre: Home to one of the world’s most renowned ballet companies, the Mariinsky (formerly Kirov) offers a truly magical experience.
  • Explore the historical canals on a boat tour: Experience St. Petersburg like the locals did centuries ago – from the water! The canals are a romantic and unique way to see the city.
  • Visit the Church on Spilled Blood: This iconic church, with its vibrant onion domes and intricate mosaics, is a must-see for art lovers.

Beyond the Arts:

  • Wander through Peter and Paul Fortress: Explore this historical fortress, the birthplace of St. Petersburg, and its museums.
  • Experience the “White Nights” phenomenon: During the summer months, the city enjoys almost 24 hours of daylight due to its northern location.
  • Enjoy the nightlife on Nevsky Prospekt: This famous street comes alive at night with bars, clubs, and restaurants.

History Buff’s Paradise:

  • The Winter Palace: Learn about the history of the Russian Empire and witness the grandeur of Imperial Russia.

Nature & Outdoors:

  • Explore the Summer Garden: A beautiful example of a formal French garden in a city renowned for its parks.
  • Visit the Peter and Paul Fortress: Enjoy the serene beauty of the gardens while exploring the historical fortress grounds.

Beyond the City:

  • Take a day trip to Pushkin (Tsarskoe Selo): Discover the opulent palaces and gardens of this historic town, formerly known as Tsarskoe Selo.
  • Explore the Peterhof Palace Gardens: Enjoy the beautiful gardens surrounding the palace, with their fountains, sculptures, and intricate landscaping.

Food & Drink:

  • Indulge in traditional Russian cuisine: Sample local delicacies like borscht, pelmeni (meat dumplings), blini (crepes) and pirozhki (small pastries filled with savory ingredients).
  • Enjoy a cup of tea at the Tea House: Experience a quintessential “Russian Tea” tradition.

Food & Drink (continued):

  • Explore the local markets: Discover fresh produce, seafood, and traditional Russian goods at places like the Sennoy Market.

Other Activities:

  • Visit the Peterhof Palace in St. Petersburg: Enjoy the stunning architecture and intricate gardens of this former imperial palace.
  • Take a walk along Nevsky Prospekt: This famous street is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it the perfect place to explore the city’s vibrant culinary and cafe culture.

Experience the “Venice of the North”:

  • Explore the Peterhof Gardens: Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the beautiful gardens, taking in the sights and sounds of this iconic landmark.

  • Visit the Russian Museum: Experience the history and diversity of Russian art.

  • Enjoy a performance at the Mikhailovsky Theatre: Catch a ballet, opera, or musical concert for a truly immersive experience in St. Petersburg’s cultural scene.

  • Cruise along the canals: Admire the city’s architecture from a unique perspective.

Beyond the Sightseeing:

  • Experience the Hermitage Palace: Take a tour of the palace and gardens, or simply wander around and soak up the atmosphere.
  • Explore the Russian Museum: Discover the works of renowned Russian artists like Repin and Serov.
  • Visit the Mariinsky Theatre: Enjoy a performance at this world-class venue and experience the magic of St. Petersburg’s cultural heritage.

Enjoy a relaxing stroll along Nevsky Prospekt: Marvel at the architecture, people-watch, and soak up the atmosphere.

For a truly immersive experience:

  • Visit during the “White Nights”: From late May to mid-July, the sun barely sets in St. Petersburg, offering unique opportunities for exploring the city’s nightlife, enjoying the long daylight hours at parks like the Summer Garden and the Peterhof Palace gardens, and experiencing the cultural vibrancy of the city’s festivals and celebrations during this magical time.

More Than Just Museums:

  • Enjoy a performance at the Mariinsky Theatre: Experience the “White Nights” phenomenon by attending a performance or concert at the famous opera house.
  • Sample traditional Russian cuisine: Visit a local market like the Nevsky Market for fresh, delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere.

For the ballet enthusiast:

  • Explore the Mikhailovsky Market: Experience the bustling energy of St. Petersburg’s culture and history.