places to visit in st petersburg russia

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.

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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 .

Things to Do in St. Petersburg, Russia - St. Petersburg Attractions

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Other Top Attractions around St. Petersburg

Top 20 St. Petersburg attractions and experiences

St. Petersburg has a true wealth of attractions and experiences to offer travelers, from spectacular Imperial palaces to quirky and absorbing museums, from boat trips along the city's majestic rivers and canals to walks in the footsteps of St. Petersburg's literary and artistic greats.

In fact, there's more than enough to see and do in St. Petersburg to keep visitors entertained for weeks or even months. One of the biggest challenges for independent travelers is to work out what they will actually have time to fit in to their itinerary, particularly as St. Petersburg is one of Europe's largest cities, with the historical centre alone covering several square kilometers and some of the most famous attractions located far out in the suburbs. To help you get the most out of your time in St. Petersburg, our travel writers have drawn on their own expertise and years of feedback from travelers to compile this Top 20 list of attractions and experiences.

The Hermitage (The Winter Palace)

Undoubtedly St. Petersburg's most famous visitor attraction, and universally acknowledged as one of the world's greatest treasuries of art and antiquities, the Hermitage is a name to be conjured with, and reason enough on its own for many travelers to book a trip to St. Petersburg.

The Hermitage Museum now spans several sites, but for most visitors it is the main collection in the Winter Palace that is an essential component of any St. Petersburg itinerary. Here you'll find not only centuries of European fine art and a rich collection of Greek and Roman antiquities , but also the astonishingly opulent 18th and 19th century state rooms of Russia's imperial family.

Since the summer of 2014, much of the Hermitage's renowned collection of impressionist and post-impressionist art (in terms of artistic quality, undoubtedly the highpoint of the collection) has been transferred across Palace Square to the General Staff Building , so if your main reason for visiting the Hermitage is to see the art, then you have to consider making time for the second location, possibly with a break for refreshments between the two.

Optimal: One day for the Winter Palace and General Staff Building collections.

Minimum: Two hours

Further reading

Explore the Hermitage: An introduction to St. Petersburg's greatest museum.

The Mariinsky Theatre

St. Petersburg's other internationally renowned cultural institution, and for some visitors an even greater draw than the Hermitage, the Mariinsky Theatre has profited in recent years from the financial and creative turmoils of Moscow's Bolshoi to become the undisputed preeminent musical theatre in modern Russia.

Renowned for the impeccable discipline and devotion to tradition of its ballet company, and blessed in Valery Gergiev with one of contemporary classical music's most exciting and exacting conductors, as well as international stars of ballet and opera including Ulyana Lopatkina, Diana Vishneva and Anna Netrebko, the Mariinsky Theatre is a world-class venue for ballet, opera and orchestral music.

Recent years have seen the Mariinsky spread beyond its historic home, the wedding-cake late-19th century opera house on Teatralnaya Ploshchad ("Theatre Square"), with the addition in 2006 of the Mariinsky Concert Hall, and in 2013 the long-awaited opening of the second opera and ballet stage, Mariinsky II. While most visitors will want to enjoy the rich atmosphere and ornate interiors of the main theatre, both new venues are beautifully designed inside, with state-of-the-art acoustics and stage technology, making them well worth exploring for music enthusiasts.

Optimal: As many performances as time and your budget will allow.

Minimum: At least one evening performance at the Mariinsky should be an essential component of any Petersburg itinerary.

Rivers and canals of St. Petersburg by boat

If you're visiting St. Petersburg from May to October, there are a number of ways to explore the city by boat, from taking the hydrofoil to the suburban palace and park at Peterhof to enjoying dinner and live jazz on an evening cruise along the Neva. When the weather's good, visitors should really take any opportunity to get out on the water, but even the shortest visit to St. Petersburg in summer should include one boat trip along the city's central rivers and canals.

There is a wide range of different offers available at the various quays on or near Nevsky Prospekt, with larger boats offering guided tours (some in English) and on-board refreshments, and smaller boats that you can rent by the hour, choose your own route, and bring your own food and drink. All routes through the centre take in some portion of the Fontanka and Moyka Rivers and the Griboedov and Kryukov Canals. Some also head out onto the River Neva, while around midnight most of the boats in the city offer the chance to watch the opening of the Neva's bascule bridges from the water. Whatever route you end up taking, a boat trip is a fantastic way to see St. Petersburg from a different angle, and perhaps the best possible means of getting an impression of the sheer scope of the city's architectural beauty and romance.

Optimal: If you're in the city for more than a few days, it's definitely worth taking two trips - one sightseeing tour through the centre and one to watch the bridges opening .

Minimum: A basic sightseeing tour along the rivers and canals of the centre will take just over an hour.

When it comes to visitor attractions, St. Petersburg is as famous for the Imperial palaces and parks in the suburbs as for the museums and palaces in the city centre. Among the former, Peterhof is the one we would class as absolutely unmissbale, especially in summer when the park's incredible collection of fountains is in operation.

It took Peter the Great over a decade and a few false starts before he found the right site for his summer residence. Modelled partly on Versailles, but with many features that reflected Peter's specific tastes and interests, the park was expanded under Peter's daughter, Empress Elizabeth, to greatly surpass its French antecedent in scope and grandeur. While the Grand Palace at Peterhof is less spectacular than the Catherine Palace at Tsarskoye Selo, Peterhof excels in the diversity and range of its attractions, from the charming baroque buildings of the Petrine era to the extraordinary gilded extravagance of the Grand Cascade to the catalog of gardening styles encompassed in the Upper and Lower Parks to the ever-growing number of museums housed in the various buildings on the estate.

Optimal: There is plenty at Peterhof to keep you occupied for a whole day, and the Lower Park is a great place to picnic in the summer.

Minimum: As the journey from the city centre takes at least 45 minutes, half a day is the minimum time necessary to visit Peterhof even for the briefest overview.

St. Isaac's Cathedral & Colonnade

The low-rise skyline of St. Petersburg's historic centre is dominated by the grand gold dome of St. Isaac's Cathedral, the life's work of French architect Auguste de Montferrand and the city's largest and most spectacular religious building.

Completed in 1858, St. Isaac's took over forty years to build and decorate. Its strictly European Empire-style facades and colonnades are made unique by the employment of red Karelian granite, while the interiors also meld Orthodox tradition with Catholic influence and extraordinary extravagance in the choice of materials. Different types of semiprecious stone from all over Russia form the interior walls and columns, while an abundance of original art and sculpture goes only a little way to filling the vast hall of the cathedral, designed to accommodate 14 000 standing worshipers. As well as visiting the Cathedral interiors, travelers can buy an extra ticket to climb the 300 steps up to the colonnade. From here, you can enjoy some of the best views of St. Petersburg available.

Optimal: A tour of the cathedral and colonnade should take around two hours. It's certainly worth getting an audio guide for the cathedral, and possibly for the colonnade if you are entirely unfamiliar with the lay-out of the city.

Minimum: While visiting the cathedral interiors is hardly essential if you have limited time to explore the city, the colonnade is just about the only accessible place in St. Petersburg where you can enjoy something like aerial views of the downtown, so it's well worth taking half an hour to visit.

The Peter & Paul Fortress

The place where the city of St. Petersburg began, the Peter and Paul Fortress never actually saw military action, but has fulfilled a variety of functions over its three-century history, from burial place for nearly all of the Romanov Emperors and Empresses to notorious political prison to the site of key experiments in the development of Soviet rocket technology. All of these aspects of the fortresses history are celebrated in diverse exhibitions across various buildings, and it is the ramshackle charms of these various museums and collections as much as the grandeur of the spectacular Ss. Petersburg and Paul Cathedral that make the fortress an essential visitor attraction.

Optimal: It's possible to spend the best part of a full day at the Peter and Paul Fortress, and if possible you should definitely take the time (around five hours) to visit the Peter and Paul Cathedral, explore the displays on the History of St. Petersburg in the Commandant's House and at the Museum of Cosmonautics and Rocket Techonolgy, and walk along the top of the curtain wall.

Minimum: If you're short of time, it's probably enough to pop inside the Cathedral and walk the ramparts (just over an hour).

Church of Our Saviour on Spilled Blood

While it lacks the authentic medieval charm of St. Basil's in Moscow, the Church on Spilled Blood is nonetheless one of St. Petersburg's most instantly recognizable landmarks, its riotously colorful Russian Revival architecture making a stark contrast to the elegant neoclassicism of the State Russian Museum next door. This is part of the church's charm, in that it serves to constantly remind the visitor to St. Petersburg that, despite the Italianate elegance of most of the "Golden Triangle", you are still definitely in Russia. It's extraordinary also that a monument to mark such a tragic event (the assassination of Alexander II) should be so exuberantly colorful.

Optimal: As gaudy and colorful on the inside as on the outside, the Church on Spilled Blood is worth going inside if you have time to listen through an audio guide with the story of the church's construction (just over an hour in total).

Minimum: If you're on a whistlestop tour, there's no need to set aside time for the Church on Spilled Blood, as you're bound to pass it more than once in even the shortest exploration of St. Petersburg.

Tsarskoye Selo (Pushkin)

Home to not one but two vast 18th century palaces, surrounded by beautifully landscaped parkland with a rich variety of follies and monuments, Tsarskoye Selo is a testament to the immense wealth and lavishness of the Romanov Imperial family. The rococo Catherine Palace by Bartolomeo Rastrelli, a sister building to his Winter Palace in the city centre, is the most famous attraction, particularly thanks to the extraordinary Amber Room, but there are many other highlights to see, with almost every great St. Petersburg architect of the 18th and early-19th centuries contributing something to the ensemble.

Optimal: Like Peterhof, Tsarskoye Selo is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace over a full day, with a break for a picnic in the park or lunch at one of Pushkin's restaurants.

Minimum: There's no point in visiting Tsarskoye Selo unless have a full morning or afternoon free. It's all worth considering combining Tsarskoye Selo with the palace and park at Pavlovsk a few kilometers east. This also gives you the opportunity to dine at the excellent Podvorye restaurant.

Opening bridges

The Neva River connects Lake Ladoga to the Baltic Sea, and during the summer navigation season tens of cargo ships per day follow this important route, making it necessary to open the bascule bridges across the Neva in central St. Petersburg. This is done after midnight, and during the White Nights especially it has long been a tradition for crowds to gather along the embankments to watch the raising of the bridges. The raised arches of Palace Bridge make for one of St. Petersburg's most famous views, but its as much the atmosphere of lazy revelry and contentment inspired by the eternal twilight that makes this such an unmissable St. Petersburg experience.

Optimal: If you have the opportunity, then it's worth taking a midnight boat trip out to watch each bridge rise from the water.

Minimum: It is only really Palace Bridge and Trinity Bridge that gather big crowds, and they are undoubtedly the most beautiful. To watch the two adjacent bridges rising and walk the kilometer along the river between the two is a pleasant way to spend an hour before bed.

Nevsky Prospekt

"There's nothing finer than Nevsky Prospekt, at least not in St. Petersburg." So begins Nikolay Gogol's famous tale of St. Petersburg's central avenue. While that story may end in disillusion and despair, there's little doubt that Nevsky is one of the world's greatest streets. Running 4.5 kilometers from the Admiralty in the west to the Alexander Nevsky Monastery in the east, Nevsky Prospekt has a hardly single building dating from after 1917. Highlights include the magnificent Art Nouveau Singer Building , the baroque Stroganov Palace , Kazan Cathedral with its curved neoclassical colonnade, the Horse Tamers statues on Anichkov Bridge , and the 18th century shopping arcade Gostiny Dvor .

Nowadays, St. Petersburg's most exclusive shopping area is actually the eastern end of Nevsky, beyond Ploshchad Vosstaniya. As well as landmark buildings and up-market boutiques, however, Nevsky Prospekt also offers an electric atmosphere and energy. Especially in summer, Nevsky is bustling no what the hour, and an increasing number of bars and cafes without outdoor seating give you a better opportunity to enjoy the avenue's living theatre.

Optimal: It will take at least two hours to walk the full length of Nevsky Prospekt, allowing for brief contemplation of the major sights and attractions.

Minimum: The most famous landmarks on Nevsky are nearly all in the stretch that runs through St. Petersburg's "Golden Triangle" from the Fontanka River to the Admiralty. This section of the avenue can be explored in around 30 minutes.

Bronze Horseman

St. Petersburg's most famous public monument, this equestrian statue to Peter the Great is not only one of the most instantly recognizable symbols of St. Petersburg - like the Statue of Liberty for New York or the Eiffel Tower for Paris - it is also the subject of one of the greatest poems in the Russian language, Alexander Pushkin's The Bronze Horseman: A Petersburg Tale . Completed in 1782, the statue took 12 years of work by the French sculptor Étienne Maurice Falconet, recommended to Catherine the Great by Denis Diderot himself. The pedestal of the monument, the "Thunder Stone", is purportedly the largest ever moved by man.

The Bronze Horseman is easily combined with a visit to St. Isaac's Cathedral, so does not require a specific time on your itinerary.

State Russian Museum

While the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow is undoubtedly the finest collection of Russian art in the world thanks to its beautiful premises and rich collection of 20th century work, it is matched up to the October Revolution almost painting for painting by the State Russian Museum. Occupying the magnificent Mikhailovsky Palace, the Russian Museum's main collection is a treasury of Russian visual from throughout the ages, with highlights including medieval icons, atmospheric late-19th century genre paintings, and several modernist masterpieces.

Optimal: The main collection in the Mikhailovsky Palace will take 2-3 hours to do justice to, and it's also worth visiting the collections in the Marble Palace both to see this beautiful building and for the Peter Ludwig collection of international Pop Art.

Minimum: While the Russian Museum is definitely one of St. Petersburg's top visitor attractions, if you are on a first-time trip to Russia and visiting Moscow as well, it makes sense to choose either the Russian Museum or the Tretyakov Gallery, as the two have very similar content right down to different variations of the same work in some cases.

Dostoevsky's St. Petersburg

While nearly every great figure of Russian literature spent some time in St. Petersburg, and many wrote works with St. Petersburg as their setting, none is so inextricably linked with the geography and atmosphere of the city as Fyodor Dostoevsky. For many travelers, it is reading his works that sparks an initial desire to visit St. Petersburg, even though his descriptions often make the city monstrous and forbidding. As St. Petersburg's historic centre has been comparatively untouched by change in the 20th century, much of Dostoevsky's Petersburg is still there to explore, and the areas around Sennaya Ploshchad and Vladimirskaya Ploshchad are rich in sights connected to his life and works.

Optimal: Our Dostoevsky walking tour takes 3.5 hours, including a visit to the Dostoevsky Memorial Museum .

Minimum: To get an idea of where Dostoevsky lived, you can just visit the museum and the adjacent Church of the Vladimir Icon , as well as the Monument to Fyodor Dostoevsky , in about an hour.

A small promontory of land at the eastern end of Vasilevskiy Island , the Strelka ("Spit") is right in the middle of the Neva River Delta, with magnificent views on all sides, including the Winter Palace , Palace and Trinity Bridges , the Peter and Paul Fortress and St. Isaac's Cathedral . A perennially popular site for wedding parties and bus tours to stop and take photos, the Strelka also has landmarks of its own, specifically the magnificent Rostral Columns , with their gas beacons lit for public holidays and maritime anniversaries, and the elegant classical temple of the St. Petersburg Stock Exchange , all works of the French-born architect Thomas de Thomon.

The Strelka is an integral part of any exploration of Vasilevskiy Island, and does not require separate time on your itinerary.

Pushkinskaya 10

Established in 1989 as a squat for independent artists, alternative musicians, and other "underground" types, Pushkinskaya 10 is an arts and performance centre in an old apartment building a short walk from Nevsky Prospekt. A warren of studios and exhibition space haphazardly linked together as the Museum of Non-Comformist Art , Pushkinskaya 10 can be somewhat bewildering for visitors, and much of the space is often inexplicably closed (the two bars, both of which are also concert venues, are by far the most accessible parts of the complex), but it's well worth visiting for the increasingly rare chance to get a glimpse of the old Leningrad bohemia and its once revered dissident art scene.

Optimal: The best way to visit Pushkinskaya 10 is to come in the early evening and hope that the galleries are open, before heading to one of the two music venues for a concert.

Minimum: A 15-minute visit should suffice to get an overall impression of the center's atmosphere.

Carlo Rossi's Petersburg

Practically unknown outside Russia, this Italian-born architect was the major creative force behind great swathes of central St. Petersburg, particularly the city's grand formal squares, with their Empire-style columned facades and trademark yellow-and-white plasterwork. His most famous buildings include the General Staff Building on Palace Square, the Alexandrinsky Theatre , the Senate and Synod Building , and the Mikhailovsky Palace (the State Russian Museum ). In the "Golden Triangle" of St. Petersburg's historic centre, moreover, it's hard to take more than a few steps without finding more of Rossi's work.

Optimal: Our walking tour of Rossi's most famous buildings takes around 2.5 hours.

Minimum: You'll see Rossi's work when you visit the Hermitage, the State Russian Museum, the Bronze Horseman, and just about anywhere you walk in central St. Petersburg.

Kunstkammer (Museum of Anthropology and Ethnology)

The city's oldest museum, the Kunstkammer was founded in 1718 by Peter the Great himself, and is primarily of interest as a monument to the remarkable endeavours and enthusiasms of St. Petersburg's extraordinary founder. Housed in an elegant baroque building on Vasilevskiy Island, the museum has a rather pedestrian collection of ethnographic exhibits, and most visitors are drawn rather to Peter's own fascination, the huge number of deformed fetuses preserved in jars and other freaks of nature. Slightly less sensational but also of interest are the displays devoted to the great Russian polymath Mikhail Lomonosov.

A visit to the Kunstkammer will take around 1.5 hours.

Ploshchad Pobedy and Moskovsky Prospekt

St. Petersburg's historic centre is renowned for having undergone little architectural change during the 20th century. In fact, the Soviet authorities were inclined to abandon the centre, redolent of the imperial past, and develop a new city to the south, along Moskovsky Prospekt . Most visitors only see this part of town on their way to and from Pulkovo Airport, but its worth exploring for several fantastic examples of Stalin-era architecture, including the monumental House of Soviets , as well as the memorials to the Great Patriotic War in Park Pobedy ("Victory Park") and on Ploshchad Pobedy ("Victory Square"). The latter is home to a magnificent panoramic monument to the Heroic Defenders of Leningrad , which has a museum detailing the defense of the city beneath it.

Optimal: It is worth spending a couple of hours exploring Moskovsky Prospekt southwards from Park Pobedy Metro Station, as well as taking a tour of the museum beneath the Monument to the Heroic Defenders of Leningrad.

Minimum: If you're short of time, there's not reason to make an extra trip out to Moskovsky Prospekt as you'll be able to see the highlights on the way to/from the airport.

Mikhailovsky Theatre

While there's no questioning the Mariinsky Theatre's position as St. Petersburg's leading venue for opera and ballet performances, it is worth paying attention to this second historic theatre on Ploshchad Iskusstv, not only because of the last decade's largely successful financial and artistic renaissance, which has seen the Mikhailovsky engage top foreign talent and gain an international reputation, but also because it can often be a more affordable and accessible way to see ballet in St. Petersburg. This is especially true when tickets at the Mariinsky are scarce during the White Nights Festival.

Ballet enthusiasts should definitely consider taking in a show at the Mikhailovsky as an addition to, rather than a replacement for, performances at the Mariinsky.

Yelagin Island

Accessible from the city centre in around 20 minutes by metro, Yelagin Island (also known by its Soviet-era name as the "Kirov Central Park of Culture and Leisure") rarely finds a place on tourist itineraries. It really should be more popular, however, offering not only a (comparatively) small but very elegant Imperial palace by Carlo Rossi, but also attractive parkland, a boating lake in summer and outdoor skating in winter, and the surprisingly avant-garde wonders of the Museum of Glass Art . The lack of cars on the island and the small entrance fee make it a secluded a tranquil spot, and its probably the best of the green spaces within the city if you're looking for somewhere to enjoy a relaxing walk.

Yelagin is a great place to while away a summer afternoon, and also has a fairly active calendar of cultural events in the warmer months, including a couple of music festivals.

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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:)

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in St. Petersburg

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Your Ultimate Guide to St. Petersburg, Russia

Russia often isn’t the first destination travelers think of when planning a trip across the pond; but gather all the facts about country’s culture capital—St. Petersburg—and you might reconsider. Peter the Great’s city is a jaw-dropping study in imperial architecture and unmistakable European influence (there are enough bridges and canals to rival Venice). Back from her own trip to the Baltic gem, JS correspondent Chelsea Stuart gives us the low-down on where to eat, sleep, and drink in SPB.

A Brooklyn-based writer and editor, Chelsea's work has appeared in Matador Network, The Huffington Post, the TripAdvisor blog, and more. When not planning her next trip, you'll usually find her drinking way too much iced coffee (always iced—she’s from New England) or bingeing a Netflix original series.

See recent posts by Chelsea Stuart

Buterbrodsky Bar

A simultaneous play on the Russian word for sandwich ( buterbrod ) and an homage to SPB poet Josef Brodsky, Buterbrodsky Bar is one of the most stylish restaurants in the Vasilyevsky Island neighborhood. The intimate café wears shabby-chic well, with plaster walls, exposed brick, antique mirrors, and fireplaces piled high with books. On the menu, you’ll find dainty open-faced sandwiches in the Danish smørrebrød tradition along with typical Russian soups and salads. Don’t miss out on a flight of nastoykas (liqueurs); Buterbrodsky is well-known for its homemade, small-batch fruity spirits.

Social Club

St. Petersburg isn’t hurting for stylish hangouts, and the Social Club is just one venue that proves such. A former Soviet-era kommunalka (communal apartment) on Rubinstein Street—the city’s gastronomic center—the spot is now a chic café, bar, and meeting place with velvet sofas, geometric light fixtures, and Art Nouveau details. On the menu? European-inspired seasonal dishes like pumpkin and citrus bruschetta, cacio e pepe, and duck breast with parsnip cream and prunes.

Another hip addition to Rubinstein Street’s well-developed restaurant scene, Geografiya features an eclectic menu with plates from every corner of the globe. Whether you’re in the mood for tapas, tartars, or Singaporean noodles, they’ve got you covered. Looking to get the party started at dinner? Drop by on Friday or Saturday when a DJ spins from 9 p.m. on.

If you’re looking for the St. Petersburg of the Soviet era—albeit a little kitschier—you’ll find it just off of Nevsky Prospekt, the city’s main thoroughfare. Katyusha is a time capsule of a restaurant, with a menu that is Russian to its core (think herring under a fur coat and rassolnik soup with beef), waitresses in traditional garb, and decor that does its part. Tabletops are adorned with lace doilies, patterned ceramics are hung on the walls, lampshades are silky and tasseled, and post-meal tea is served in a traditional Samovar-style kettle.

Corinthia Hotel St. Petersburg

There’s a lot to love about the Corinthia Hotel St. Petersburg , but we’ll start with its prime location on Nevsky Prospekt (the city’s main thoroughfare), within easy walking distance of the State Hermitage Museum, Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, and the shops and restaurants on Rubinstein Street. Throw three 19th-century facades, opulent interiors, and four restaurants and bars into the mix, and it makes for an ideal SPB base. For visiting culture vultures, the hotel also offers an “Art à la Carte” package which includes accommodations and admission to your choice of select institutions like the State Russian Museum and Mariinsky Theatre.

Four Seasons Hotel Lion Palace St. Petersburg

If you’re looking for the royal treatment, you might consider the Four Seasons . The 19th-century imperial Russian palace has been restored to its 1820s origins, replete with heritage interiors and unrivaled hospitality courtesy of Les Clef d’Or concierges. If you’re really looking to live like a tsar during your time in St. Petersburg, splurge on a residential-style suite with views of Saint Isaac’s Cathedral and Alexandrovsky Garden.

The State Hermitage Museum Official Hotel

This over-the-top hotel may have just opened in 2013, but since its ambitious debut it’s been giving St. Petersburg’s most iconic grand dames a run for their money. Taking cues from its storied partner, the State Hermitage Museum (which is about a mile away), the neoclassical stay introduced a soaring atrium, replica bronze sculptures and canvases, and opulent period interiors worthy of the tsars. In fact, rooms reflect the imperial style of the Winter Palace’s original chambers right down to Greek marble, handmade Italian furnishings, and gilded plaster ceilings.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all St. Petersburg, Russia hotels

The State Hermitage Museum

The State Hermitage Museum came from less-than-humble beginnings, having been founded by Empress Catherine the Great in 1764 after she inherited an impressive collection of fine art. Now one of the largest art museums in the world, the emblematic Neva River complex—which includes the Winter Palace, Small Hermitage, Old Hermitage, New Hermitage, and Hermitage Theater—houses upwards of three million pieces from Egyptian antiquities to modern Rembrandt and Matisse canvases.

Mariinsky Theatre

The illustrious, imperial-style Mariinsky Theatre has quite a history, having premiered its fair share of Pyotr Tchaikovsky operas and hosted legendary prima ballerinas like Anna Pavlova. Take a seat under the cherub-frescoed ceiling for an opera, ballet, or orchestral concert you won’t soon forget.

Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood & St. Isaac’s Cathedral

One of the most recognizable and architecturally astounding sights on St. Petersburg’s skyline, the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood is more than just an IG photo-op. Hugging the Griboedov Canal, the medieval church is a marvel of mosaic icons and ornate domes worthy of an hour or two spent inside. Another Russian Orthodox cathedral, St. Isaacs’s neoclassical design is more traditional with a central dome (plated with pure gold), four smaller domes, and Corinthian columns. Climb the 300 steps to the cathedral’s colonnade and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the city.

Erarta Museum of Contemporary Art

Discover both established and up-and-coming Russian artists from regions like Perm, Krasnodar, Ufa, Novosibirsk, and more at Erarta, the largest private museum of contemporary art in Russia. Inside the Stalinist-style building, a permanent collection of more 2,800 pieces is displayed and eight experimental “U-Space” installations (rooms meant to elicit emotions) can be booked for private 15-minute sessions. In the “My House—My Fortress?” space, visitors get a sense of what is was like to live in communal Soviet-era flats, while in “Childhood,” a room full of gargantuan furniture makes it easy to reminisce on your younger years.

Corinthia Lobby Bar

There’s no bad time to nurse a drink at Corinthia Hotel St. Petersburg’s lobby bar, but on Friday and Saturday nights, libations are accompanied by live jazz. Pull a chair up to the marble-topped bar for a strong Nevsky Punch, Moscow Mule, or vodka straight up.

Khroniki Bar

You can get a good vodka nearly anywhere in St. Petersburg— Khroniki included—but if you’re doing it right, you’ll go for the spot’s specialty: Leningrad-era wine. Beyond 20th-century spirits, the bar is unmistakably Soviet, with gilded antique chandeliers, white tiled walls, and wooden bar tables (sans stools, of course). You won't find a rowdy crowd here, but it's more than ideal for quiet conversations among friends.

Griboedov Club

Griboedov isn’t a St. Petersburg secret by any means, but the cult club has been a part of the underground scene since it started hosting alt rock gigs in a subterranean bomb shelter in 1996. Today, the divey joint delivers a house party atmosphere with DJs, daily performances by local musicians, and retro Soviet disco nights.

Turkish Airlines

Sometimes, flying first class is an unnecessary expense, but if you’re jetting from JFK (or another U.S. hub) to Russia, then you’re in it for the long-haul. Go for business class on Turkish Airlines  and you’ll be treated to welcome drinks, pre-dinner mezes , chef-prepared meals, a dessert cart, and a flat-lay seat fit for sleeping. With a stopover in Istanbul, you’ll also get to enjoy the Turkish Lounge—with stations and stations of Turkish delicacies (don’t skip the simit —a Turkish bagel), a movie theater, sleeping rooms, and showers—before finishing the final leg of your journey to St. Petersburg.

What to Pack

Men’s warm outfit to wear in st. petersburg, shop the look.

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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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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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Museum of Wander

Absolute BEST Things to do in St Petersburg, Russia

St Pete’s is a stunner and easy to visit. Read our guide to the best things to see and do in Russia’s cultural capital

Few cities on earth pack a punch quite as St Pete’s does. Peter the Great’s Window to the West is spectacular, and must not be missed on your trip to Russia. St Petersburg is the most European city in Russia and offers you fantastic things to see and do at a fraction of the cost of that in Western Europe.

St Petersburg is the cultural capital of Russia, and culture lovers will have their pick of things to see and do. Like most other places we visit, we really enjoy the highlights such as the Hermitage (could it be the best museum in Europe ?) or cathedrals, but for us, the highlight of St Petersburg was simply wandering around aimlessly in this stunning city.

We also visited Moscow after St Petersburg, and they are two very different cities. I just loved Moscow, while Jin preferred St Petersburg. Having to choose between Moscow or St Petersburg is unreasonable. We suggest you visit both if time allows. If not, then perhaps flip a coin!

St Petersburg is definitely one of the greatest cities on earth for art and history, so cultural vultures won’t have to look far for things to see or do in Russia’s Window to the West. While it is Russia’s most European city, it is undeniably Russian.

After spending 4 amazing summer days in St Petersburg we want to share our best things to do in the city. Our city guide to St Petersburg will show you a very unique place to stay, things to see and do, how to get around and where to eat in this smashing city.

Impressions of St. Petersburg (and Russia in general)

• It is incredibly clean. Like Germany on steroids.
• People are warm and friendly. Although they (almost) never smile, Russians are kind and will go out of their way to help.
• Visiting St Petersburg is very affordable and excellent value for money.
• We felt safe wherever we went.

Please note: This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you).

Where to Stay in St Petersburg

Our stunning Airbnb loft apartment in Petrogradskaya was the perfect home for our stay in St Petersburg. Located on the top floor of a typical Russian building, this spacious apartment oozes charm and you’ll live like a trendy Peterburger while in the city. The large open space that is the living room/bedroom/kitchen is loft living at its best.

The nearest metro station is Gorgovskaya and is less than 10 minutes walk away. The Hermitage is only one metro stop away.

Large windows make this loft apartment bright and overlook LENFILM, the oldest film studio in Russia. This loft is incredibly atmospheric and will add immense value to your St. Petersburg experience.

There is a modern, 24-hour supermarket next to the building where you can stock up on everything that you might need. Just down the street is the Sytny Market (farmer’s market) where you can shop for fantastic organic produce. The Sytni Market was founded in 1711 and is the oldest market in the city.

The ladies at the Sytny market have mean faces and golden teeth, but they are as sweet as the fruit that they sell, and they’ll let you taste before you buy. We bought delicious flat peaches from Uzbekistan and a tub of caviar for a truly Russian breakfast at our apartment.

Things to do in St Petersburg, Russia

See the masterpieces at the hermitage museum.

The State Hermitage is an art lover’s wet dream! The staggering collection of art is housed inside the Winter Palace, which is a work of art itself. Masterpieces aside, the interior of the Hermitage is an overload of gold and opulence. The Hermitage is one of the best things to do in Russia , so DO NOT MISS IT.

The art collection in the Hermitage is the legacy of Catherine the Great. If you haven’t done so already we suggest you watch the Hulu TV series The Great . This historical comedy is about the rise of Catherine the Great and her vision to bring art to the people of Russia.

The collection of over 3 million art pieces is spread over 400 rooms in five interlinked buildings. It is the second-largest art museum in the world and it will take you years to fully explore and appreciate the masterpieces, so do set aside the better part of a day to really enjoy it. Or even better, plan to visit the museum over a few consecutive days.

Highlights of the Hermitage include a very handsome collection of impressionist and postmodern art (Picasso, Matisse, Cezanne, Gauguin, Van Gogh, Kandinsky and the like) which are housed in the General Staff Building . The General Staff Building is located across the square from the Winter Palace and has a separate entrance.

The collection inside the Winter Palace is mostly dedicated to classical art, and the highlight here for us was the astonishing collection of Rembrandts and Flemish art. Other highlights include works by Titian, Da Vinci and Michelangelo among others.

The Hermitage is one of the best art museums in the world and one of the top things to do in St Petersburg. Needless to say, queues to get in can get ridiculously long in summer. Avoid the lines by buying your ticket online in advance.

Buy your Hermitage entrance tickets now

Tips for Visiting the Hermitage

If you can’t/dodon’t want to buy a ticket online, buy your ticket at the General Staff Building. You’re guaranteed a short queue or even no line at all. See the collection in the General Staff Building before walking across the square to the Winter Palace. Walk past the long lines, wave your ticket and walk right in 🙂

If you need the skip the line ticket and don’t want a guided tour, but still need a little help or information, you can opt for the popular ticket and host service . Your host will deliver your tickets to your meeting point, answer some questions and then you are free to walk right into the Hermitage and explore on your own.

Anyone with just the slightest interest in either art or history is sure to enjoy the Hermitage. Do set aside the best part of the day to truly enjoy it. True culture vultures might want to consider a second visit due to the sheer amount of art, the opulence of the architecture and the vast size of the Hermitage.

New Hermitage

The New Hermitage is just around the corner from Palace Square, and it is actually connected to the Winter Palace. It’s worth the short detour to come and admire the iconic architecture of the entrance to the New Hermitage.

Ten huge granite Atlantes statues support the roof of the portico and make for a nice photo stop before or after visiting the Hermitage. Note that entry into the Hermitage is not possible here.

Ride the St Petersburg Metro

Like elsewhere in Russia, the St Petersburg Metro is not only very convenient to get around on, but admiring the extravagant stations is also one of the best things to do in the city. A subway tour of the St Petersburg Metro is a must when in the city.

Getting around St Petersburg by metro is cheap, convenient and easy to navigate. A ride on one of these rickety subway cars is a blast straight out of the Soviet era and should definitely not be missed.

Forget about drab underground stations that’ll put you into a depression. The metro in St Petersburg is also known as the Palaces of the People, and the ornate stations come complete with chandeliers, marble fittings, statues and beautiful tiles.

Some of the best metro stations in St Petersburg to see are Avtovo , Pushkinskaya , Sportivnaya and Narvskaya .

Gold & Great Views from St Isaac’s Cathedral

St Isaac’s cathedral is the largest orthodox church in the world and its golden dome dominates the city skyline. Only a small section of the cathedral still functions as a church as it’s been turned into a museum.

The scale of it all is truly impressive, so is the mind-blowing opulence of the interior. The dome itself has 400 kg of gold. You are sure to be impressed by the be immense scale and beauty of the frescoes, mosaics and icons.

The interior is an overload of art, mosaics and frescoes on a scale only Russia can pull off. After seeing the lavish interior, take the 300 steps up to the colonnade for the best panoramic view over St Petersburg.

After visiting St Isaac’s cathedral, take a quick look and a snap at the Bronze Horseman . This equestrian statue of Peter the Great is an iconic symbol of St Petersburg.

Proceed towards the Neva River and take a stroll along the Admiralty Embankment . The embankment runs along the most historic part of St Petersburg and the architecture and sculptures along the way are just fantastic.

Appreciate the Simplicity of Kazan Cathedral

Just like St Isaac’s, the Kazan cathedral is majestic and grand. However, the Kazan cathedral still functions as a church and there are always worshipers who flock here to pay their respects to the icon of Our Lady of Kazan.

The beauty of the Kazan cathedral for us lies in its simplicity, combined with its grand scale. Looking up to the monochromatic frescoes inside the lofty dome is surreal. The crescent shape and design of the cathedral was inspired by the St Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican.

Entrance to the Kazan cathedral is free. Please remember that this is still a functioning church, so please be respectful when taking pictures.

Admire the Splendid Peterhof Gardens & Fountains

Peterhof, or Summer Palace, with its spectacular formal gardens and fountains is one of Russia’s most famous tourists attractions. Don’t miss visiting this St Petersburg highlight while you are in the city.

Peterhof came to be after Peter the Great had visited Versailles in France. He decided that Russia needed its own version of Versailles and went ahead and tried to outdo the French. The result is an architectural marvel consisting of several gardens and fountains surrounding the palace. Today Peterhof is the largest collection of fountains in the world.

The highlight of Peterhof is without a doubt the Grand Cascade. This Baroque masterpiece in gold and water is a sight to behold. The centrepiece of the Grand Cascade features a golden statue of Samson ripping apart the lion’s jaws. The Samson fountain symbolizes Russia’s victory over Sweden.

Good looks aside, the fountains are remarkable since they work without the use of any pumps. The water is supplied by natural springs and the difference in elevation between the Upper and Lower Gardens creates the pressure that makes the fountains work.

The formal gardens are a delight to explore. Walking from one flawlessly manicured garden to the next you’ll discover hedge mazes, more fountains, quiet hideaways and views of the Grand Peterhof Palace.

Note that the fountains operate from May until early October. You can buy entrance tickets for Peterhof from Klook.

Time travel back to the USSR at the House of the Soviets

Almost all visitors to Russia want to see some of its past Soviet glory. For a blast from the USSR Soviet past, take the metro to Moskovskiy Prospect. When you exit the metro station at Moskovskiy Prospect you’ll be greeted by some of the best Soviet relics in all of Russia.

The House of the Soviets is a spectacular, grey monstrosity from 1936. Originally intended as city administration offices, the seven-storey monolithic was completed just before the outbreak of the Great Patriotic War and served as a regional command post for the Soviet army. After the war, it served as a research institute, mostly for military electronics.

Today the place definitely has a deserted feel to it, but it’s still well kept. We were the only people around when we visited. The fine friezes running around the top of the building feature very soviet-looking workers being strong and soviet and the such. It also sports an impressive Soviet crest.

The huge Lenin statue in front of the building makes for some good selfies!

We are not sure if the House of the Soviets is open to visitors. Unless you are a Soviet-o-phile, a look from the outside will be more than enough. If you’re looking to learn more about what life was like in the USSR, consider this excellent Communist Tour of Leningrad .

See St Petersburg from a Canal Cruise

St Petersburg is also known as the Venice of the North , and after exploring the city on foot it’s time to jump on board a boat and see the city form a canal cruise .

Seeing the majestic architecture as you cruise along the Neva river and smaller canals give you a different perspective of the city. It’s possibly the most relaxing thing to do in St Petersburg while getting some lovely views of the city.

Make sure that you are taking a cruise that also goes into the small canals, and not just down the Neva river as you get much closer to the buildings.

Feeling more adventurous? Then take to the canals on a kayak .

Goggle at the St Petersburg Mosque

We found the St Petersburg’s mosque on the Petrograd side of the city by chance as we walked back to our apartment one night. It looks like it teleported from Uzbekistan and landed a short walk away from the Peter and Paul Fortress.

The mosque is the biggest in Europe and is worth the short detour if you’re in the area and looking for something unique to see in St Petersburg.

Simply stroll Around Without a Plan

One of the best things for us to do anywhere is to simply walk around without a plan. Discovering things you weren’t looking for is sometimes the best thing that can happen. Jumping on one of the trams and simply riding through obscure neighbourhoods was also very enjoyable.

A good starting point is Nevsky Prospect, which is the city’s main shopping street. After seeing the famous buildings such as the Singer building, Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood and the Kazan Cathedral on Nevsky Prospect, take any side street and see where it takes you.

There is some really nice architecture around the Anichkov Bridge on Nevsky. This bridge is also a popular spot for canal cruises to depart from.

Petrogradskaya, across the river, is also great for simply strolling around. The area around the Peter and Paul Fortress is another good spot to walk around aimlessly. From here you also get a nice view towards the Hermitage behind the Neva river. There is a beach here on the Neva where locals come on a sunny day or to take a dip after work.

Recommended St Petersburg walking tours:

City Center Walking Tour with Lunch Dostoyevsky Walking Tour of St Petersburg Saint Petersburg: Like a Local Walking Tour

White Nights in St Petersburg

The best time to visit St Petersburg is during the White Nights, which peaks in mid-June until early July. During the White Nights, the city rarely sleeps as it never really gets dark.

Visiting St Petersburg during the White Nights allows for long hours of sightseeing during the day, and parties and festivals during the night (which is still day). The atmosphere in the city during this time is just fantastic. Often the day and night become so indistinguishable that the city doesn’t bother with switching on the street lights.

I remember walking next to the Neva River at the Peter and Paul fortress, looking across the water towards the Hermitage while people were swimming in the river AFTER MIDNIGHT in the everlasting blue hour. It was utterly surreal and magical.

One downside from visiting during the White Nights is that we didn’t realize how much we were walking, since your internal clock will be buggered. Still walking at 10:30 pm and not having had supper because the sun hasn’t set yet? Blame the White Lights of St Petersburg!

Perhaps the best way to see the White Nights in St Petersburg would be to take to the canals on a midnight cruise and see the drawbridges open.

Where to Eat in St Petersburg

Few will sing the praise of Russian cuisine. We are one of those few people. We found the food in Russia absolutely delicious, down-to-earth and cheap. Just like good food should be. Just like anywhere else, eating was one of the best things we did in St Petersburg and helped us to get to know Russia a little better.

Going to Moscow next?

Learn about the best things to do in Moscow.

How many days in St Petersburg?

How long is a piece of string? Many people visit St Petersburg as a shore excursion, as the city is a popular stop on the Baltic//Stockholm/Helsinki cruise itinerary. They would rush through the Hermitage or Peterhof gardens before making it back for a dinner with the captain. While many likes this concept, we urge you to spend as much time here as possible.

We spent 5 days and 4 nights in St Petersburg and it was just the right amount of time. Do not spend less than 3 nights. With 4 nights in the city, we could really enjoy all the sights without having to rush and explore some of the lesser-known areas.

Best things to do in St Petersburg map

And that’s how you do St Petersburg! We are sure you will love this great city as much as we did. Let us know if you have any questions and, as always, we will try our best to help.

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Home » Europe » St. Petersburg

11 BEST Places to Visit in St. Petersburg (2024)

Moscow may be the capital of Russia, but if you’re a culture vulture, then St. Petersburg is the city for you. A port city on the Baltic Sea, it offers everything you could want from a city break and more.

Founded in 1703 by Peter the Great, it is home to some of the most impressive architecture and art in the whole of Russia. There’s so much to do here, it can be hard putting together your Saint Petersburg itinerary. That’s where I come in!

The city is chock full of palaces, parks, cathedrals, and theatres, and there are far too many to fit into one visit, so only my favourites have made the list of the best places to visit in St. Petersburg.

I’ve also thrown in a few off the beaten track and unusual places to make sure you get to see all the best attractions in Saint Petersburg, as well as some hidden gems that only the locals know about!

So, when you’re ready, let’s take a look at the best places to visit in St. Petersburg.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in St. Petersburg:

These are the best places to visit in st. petersburg, faq on the best places to visit in st petersburg, final thoughts on places to visit in saint petersburg.

The Tsentralny District is the beating heart of St Petersburg. It sits at the centre of the action and is home to some of the cities most famous and fascinating landmarks, including the Winter Palace and St Isaac’s Cathedral.

• Browse the State Rooms of the Stroganov Palace.
• Climb to the top of St Isaac’s Cathedral and enjoy the views.
• Delve deep into the history of Russia’s royal family at the spectacular Winter Palace.

Visiting the BEST places in any city should be accompanied by the BEST accommodation, but that requires knowledge of the BEST areas of the city and where to find it.

I’ve got you covered! Be sure to check out where to stay in St. Petersburg and then you may enter the palace below!

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#1 – State Hermitage Museum – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in St. Petersburg

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• One of the world’s greatest treasuries of art and antiquities
• See the intricate and beautiful peacock clock – it’s amazing
• The hermitage museum is spread out across several sites

Why it’s awesome: No St. Petersburg itinerary is complete without a visit to the State Hermitage Museum. Not only is it one of the most astounding hermitage museums in Russia, but the entire world!

I’d recommend setting aside a whole day for visiting St. Petersburg’s Hermitage Museum. Incredibly, there are over 3 million works from around the world here! If you are short of time, you can marvel at the incredible outside facade from the palace square, as the building itself is just as beautiful as the exhibits inside.

The main building is the Winter Palace, which houses Greek and Roman antiquities, centuries of European art, and the staterooms of the Russian Imperial family from the 18th and 19th centuries! The whole palace is full of russian art and historic pieces that are truly special to this museum.

If you liked the Winter Palace, Catherine Palace is another marble palace worth checking out. It’s the summer residence of the Russian tsars and is a World Heritage Site. The building itself is stunning as the stucco details are drowned in gold. The north-side carriage courtyard is particularly stunning. But, it is a bit of a distance out of the city center so if you are running low on time and can only see one, go to the State Hermitage Museum.

What to do there: If you aren’t blessed with a lot of time for the museum, take a guided tour to see the highlights. One of the most curious things you won’t want to miss is the peacock clock.

The mechanical 18th century automated clock still sings today. It’s the largest example of 18th-century robotics that has survived to the present day without any alterations!

Some housekeeping – since the museum is so big it’s a great idea to get a map which covers the 6 buildings. That way, you can choose the things you’re most interested in.

It’s absolutely impossible to see everything! Also, the museum can get very popular in summer, so consider purchasing skip the line tickets!

#2 – Mariinsky Theatre

• See a ballet performance from the “Imperial Ballet of Russia”
• A world-class concert hall
• One of the most renowned cultural attractions in St. Petersburg

Why it’s awesome: This huge theatre is one of the most famous in the world. Built-in the 19th century, for over 150 years it has hosted some of the best actors, performers, and dancers in the world.

Although you can see operas and plays at the Mariinsky, it’s best known for ballet. In fact, this used to be known as the Imperial Ballet of Russia, so that should give you some idea of how revered it was (and still is)! Recently, the theatre has expanded.

In 2006, it added the concert hall and a second stage for opera and ballet in 2013!

What to do there: If you’re limited on a budget or time, you may not be able to extend to a show at the Mariisnky Theatre.

Although that’s a shame, it doesn’t mean you have to miss out completely. We’d definitely recommend taking a tour around the grand auditorium, one of the most beautiful and richly decorated in the world.

If your budget does cover it, don’t miss a show at this incredible place off your St. Petersburg itinerary. It’s also a great place to admire from the outside. Make sure you get pictures of the colourful buildings from Theatre Square!

With a Saint Petersburg City Pass , you can experience the best of St. Petersburg at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

#3 – Saviour on the Spilled Blood – One of the best religious places to see in St. Petersburg

• The most unique places of worship in the city
• Home to one of the world’s biggest collections of mosaics
• One of the most recognizable landmarks in St. Petersburg

Why it’s awesome: This incredible church known as Savior on Spilled Blood, was built on the site where Tsar Alexander II was killed in an attack, which explains its macabre and graphic name of “spilled blood”.

Although St. Petersburg is filled with churches, this is arguably the most beautiful, and the reason it’s made it onto our list! The colourful church is just as bright and gaudy on the inside, where you’ll find one of the world’s biggest collection of mosaics.

Most people compare this to St Basil’s Cathedral in Russia, another of the country’s most famous landmarks!

What to do there: Any guided tour of the city will take you past the Saviour of the Spilled Blood Cathedral. Probably more than once! That’s because it’s right by the State Russian Museum, and plenty of other attractions are nearby. Also, Alexander II was a very important figure in Russian history.

If you have time, it’s definitely worth getting an hour-long audio tour of the church. It’ll tell you about the church’s history and construction.

Another religious building well worth your time when you travel to St. Petersburg is St Isaac’s Cathedral and Colonnade. It’s easily recognizable by its golden dome!

#4 – Peterhof Palace – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in St. Petersburg

• Once the main summer residence of the Russian Tsars
• Excellent location overlooking the Gulf of Finland
• Have a picnic in the Lower Park

Why it’s awesome: Since it’s located 45 minutes from the city, you’ll need to dedicate at least half a day to visiting Peterhof Palace. However, it’s well worth it!

Situated on the Gulf of Finland, this opulent palace is also known as the “Russian Versailles”. It’s not hard to see why, whether that’s down to the gilded domes, or the fountains throughout the extensive landscaped gardens.

Unbelievably, there are more than 60 fountains and 200 sculptures throughout the gardens at Peterhof. The most famous, The Grand Cascade, is one of the must-see St. Petersburg attractions!

What to do there: Don’t miss going inside the stunning Peterhof Palace. Classic staterooms, the ornate Ceremonial Staircase, and the Grand Ballroom are just some of the highlights of the interior.

Outside, there’s more to the gardens than just the incredible selection of fountains! The Lower Park has a canal that empties straight out into the Gulf of Finland and is a great spot to have a picnic.

Like many other St Petersburg attractions on this list, Peterhof gets very busy in summer. It’s definitely worth booking your ticket in advance, especially if they enable you to skip the queues!

#5 – Tsarskoye Selo and the Amber Room

• Experience the lavish wealth of the Romanov Imperial Family
• See a recreation of the Amber Room, thought to be lost in World War II
• One of the most famous attractions in St. Petersburg

Why it’s awesome: By now, you’ve probably realized that the palaces in St. Petersburg are pretty extravagant. It’s possible that the 18th century Tsarskoye Selo is the most opulent and lavish of them all, built for Empress Elizabeth by the architect responsible for the Winter Palace, Bartolomeo Rastrelli.

It’s a day trip out of the city, to the town of Pushkin, widely regarded as one of the prettiest neighbourhoods in St. Petersburg. The Amber Room is undoubtedly a highlight. Thought to be lost forever in the Second World War, the painstaking reconstruction of the room is impressive nonetheless!

What to do there: As well as visiting Tsarskoye Selo, while you’re in Pushkin there are a few other cool places to check out.

One of the top attractions in St. Petersburg is Catherine Palace, where you’ll find the Amber Room. Attached to that is also the Catherine garden, which is landscaped with a variety of English, French, and Italian techniques.

If you want to find somewhere a little quieter to escape to, check out Alexander Park. They’re a little more overgrown and spread out, but there are some interesting buildings hidden away in there!

#6 – Museum of Hygiene – Quite the quirky place to visit in St. Petersburg

• Educate yourself on the dangers of germs and disease
• See one of Pavlov’s dogs!
• One of the more unusual points of interest in Saint Petersburg

Why it’s awesome: Yes, St. Petersburg is fascinating. However, if you’re just visiting palaces and cathedrals, it’s definitely not out of the question that you’ll get palace fatigue. You can only take so much of walking around all those long hallways and being astounded by art after all!

For a perfect tonic, head to the unusual Museum of Hygiene. It was established in the early 20th century to educate the city’s locals on good health practices. It’s especially worth a visit if you want to learn about the gruesome medical practices from the turn of the last century!

What to do there: There’s plenty to see in the display cabinets here that you won’t find anywhere else in St. Petersburg! Check out both female and male models with movable internal organs, wax anatomy models, and even some displays explaining the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.

Perhaps don’t eat before you visit here! One of the coolest displays you’ll see is Pavlov’s taxidermy dog. This may not be one of the most famous places in St. Petersburg, but it’s certainly worth a visit. Especially if you’re into science!

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#7 – Grand Maket Rossiya (Grand Model of Russia) – One of the more unique places to visit in St. Petersburg

• Rent binoculars to see the whole scale of this cool recreation of Russia
• The second biggest model in the world
• See all of Russia’s most important cultural and geographical attractions in just one day!

Why it’s awesome: If you don’t have time to cover all 17 million kilometres of Russia (and let’s face it, who does?), then this is your next best opportunity! The Grand Model of Russia is the second biggest model in the world after Miniatur Wunderland in Hamburg.

It’s not entirely to scale, but it does mean you can visit Moscow, the Ural Mountains, and Vladivostok all on the same day! There is 2.5km of train tracks which miniature trains run on, and over half a million LED lights, which you’re guaranteed to see as a day only lasts 15 minutes!

What to do there: Russia is so big that it may not even be possible to get around the whole model of it one day! If that’s the case, rent a pair of binoculars so you can take in the whole of this amazing model. If you do have a bit more time, fantastic.

You can have a go at controlling some parts of the model yourself! There are buttons on the side where you can control the speeds of the cars and trains in the model. Sometimes it’s just enough to watch what’s going on though.

Old women feeding their chickens, a tiny UFO, and escaping prisoners are all part of one of the most unusual attractions in St. Petersburg!

#8 – Nevsky Prospekt

• 5km street dissecting the city from east to west
• Great for shopping – high end boutiques and designer shops here
• Check out some of the best places to eat in Saint Petersburg

Why it’s awesome: One of the most bustling streets you’ll find anywhere, the central avenue Nevsky Prospekt is considered one of the greatest streets in the world.

As well as the Hermitage and the Mariinsky theatre, you’ll find some places that didn’t make our list of the best places to visit in St. Petersburg but are still worth your time!

These include Kazan Cathedral, the House of Books, and the Eliseyev Emporium. Just be careful when you’re crossing – much of the street is 4 lanes on each side!

What to do there: If you’re visiting St. Petersburg, you’re bound to end up on this thoroughfare at some point. It was originally planned as one of the roads to Moscow but is now one of the central points of restaurants for tourists!

If you want to walk the whole length of Nevsky Prospekt, you’ll need at least two hours, and possibly a little more if you’re to take in its major sights.

As well as historical and cultural sites, make sure to stop off to window shop at some of the city’s most exclusive boutiques, or sample Russian delicacies at the best places to eat in St. Petersburg.

#9 – St. Petersburg Metro – A great place to see in St. Petersburg if you love architecture

• How to see Saint Petersburg in more ways than one
• Marvel at the Grand columns of Avtovo Station
• Some of the coolest architecture in the city

Why it’s awesome: St. Petersburg’s rapid transit system is about more than just getting from A to B. The stations here are opulent and rival the palaces and cathedrals above ground for their intricate architecture.

Although walking is often the best way to see a city, don’t miss out on taking the metro – even if it’s just to be astounded by the beauty of the stations!

What to do there: Moscow’s subway was the first built in Russia and St. Petersburg’s system was designed to mimic its beautiful architecture.

All 8 lines on the first line built-in 1955 are considered places of cultural significance. Check out the grand marble and glass columns of Avtovo Station and the sport-themed Sportivnaya. Spending a day on the metro may seem boring, but not here in St. Petersburg!

#10 – Slam City – A great place to visit in St. Petersburg at night!

• A great example of alternative St. Petersburg nightlife
• See live performances from local musicians
• A club run by cassette-focused Russian record label

Why it’s awesome: Saint-Brooklynsburg is a cassette-focused Russian record label, but what on earth is that? Well, it’s responsible for one of the coolest additions to the city’s nightlife scene.

The music mixes American-style garage rock with old-school cassettes to give a very distinctive sound. The club has super cool décor, and it’s the perfect place to spend a party at night after a day visiting the museums and palaces of the city!

What to do there: Don’t miss a live performance from one of the coolest bands on the city’s music scene! The dress code is pretty extravagant, so make sure you pick out your brightest colours to fit in!

Slam City is at its most vibrant and raucous on a weekend, so go then if you can. It’s a St. Petersburg must-do if you want to experience the city’s alternative music scene!

#11 – Peter and Paul Fortress – The city’s historic citadel

• A great example of historic Russian empire defences
• A quick attraction to visit on a stop-over
• Intricate Baroque detailing throughout

Why it’s awesome: The Peter and Paul fortress is the original citadel of the city found on a small island facing the Neva River. It was built in 1703 by Peter the Great when the Russian empire was the strongest empire in Eastern Europe. For a long time, it served as a prison for political criminals, from the early 1700s until the early 1920s.

It was designed by Domenico Trezzini, Peter’s court architect and the pioneer of the Petrine Baroque style that was introduced by the Russian Empire. The complex has six bastions (each named after close associates of Peter) with intertwining stone curtain walls. The structures have been adapted and embellished over the years, and while it is beautiful, whether it was actually a good defensive structure has been up for debate.

Within the fortress is the Peter and Paul Cathedral, which was one of the first buildings to have been made. Originally it was made of wood and consecrated on 1 April 1704, but it was eventually replaced with stone a decade or so later.

What to do here: You can wander around the entirety of the Peter and Paul Fortress and visit the cathedral inside. The whole complex isn’t huge, it’s like a village inside a high wall, but it has a lot of intricate detailing that you might like to stop and marvel at.

It’s located right in the heart of the city center so it’s one of the best Saint Petersburg attractions to visit for a short stop-over. Across the river you will find the Palace Bridge, leading to Palace Square and the State Russian Museum.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Saint Petersburg

What is a free place to visit in St Petersburg?

Nevsky Prospekt is a free place to visit, but as it’s famous for its shopping, you might want to bring your wallet with you. Otherwise, it’s a great free place to visit to admire the architecture.

Is St Petersburg Russia worth visiting?

Yes, St Petersburg is worth visiting if you’re a fan of architecture and art.

What is St Petersburg Russia famous for?

St Petersburg is the cultural capital of Russia and is famous for its Baroque and neoclassical architecture, cathedrals and palaces.

Is St Petersburg in Russia a safe place to visit?

St Petersburg is generally a safe place to visit for tourists. Most crimes are not directed at tourists but you should always keep an eye out for pick pockets.

So, that concludes my list of the best places to visit in St. Petersburg. I hope that you’ve found it useful and helpful in planning your trip!

I think the 11 places we’ve chosen are just enough places to visit in Saint Petersburg in 3 days. However, if you’re planning on staying longer, you’ll certainly find that there’s more to do.

I hope that my list has not only showed you how to visit Saint Petersburg, but how to live like a local too. As well as seeing all the most famous attractions the city has to offer, you’ll get off the beaten track too. Who knows, you may even make Russian friends and practice your language skills?!

Just make sure that whatever you do on your trip, you’re armed with our list of the best places to visit in Saint Petersburg. It’ll help you plan out your holiday and really help you to make the most of your vacation!

Alya and Campbell

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Smolny Cathedral is one of St. Petersburg's most unique sites.

Discover the Best of St. Petersburg

Ten must-do activities for your next trip to St. Petersburg

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 Best Attractions + Things To Do in St Petersburg Russia

Published January 23, 2024 · Updated January 23, 2024

A city of opulence and lavishness, palaces and museums, cathedrals and canals. I could go on quite a bit about the multitude of things to do in St Petersburg Russia .

However, travellers are often here for just a handful of days , if not less, so I’ve narrowed down this list of must-see attractions in Saint Petersburg for when you find yourself visiting.

Read on to discover the best list 🙂 … (you can NOT miss seeing number 15!)

I was fortunate to visit St. Petersburg during the Summer Nights also referred to as White Nights (midnight sun) and got to witness the city that never gets completely dark and a massive city wide summer festival.

I had a (mostly) wonderful time in Russia, except for when it was time to leave and I thought I would be trapped here “forever.” Check out my misadventure in Russia here .

>> Read next:

• Revealed: the cheapest countries in Europe .
• The top attractions in Malta + most beautiful places to visit.
• How to say HELLO and THANK YOU in Russian and other different languages.
• How to make the most of Bratislava in one day .
• The best 10 things to do in Riga Latvia .
• Checklist: Schengen countries list 2024 .

SAINT PETERSBURG RUSSIA’S IMPERIAL CITY

St Petersburg, founded by Peter the Great in 1703 , became the imperial capital of the Russian empire for two centuries.

He named this new metropolis Sankt-Peterburg and during its relatively short history it gained significant historical and cultural heritage as well as a host of artistic and architectural riches. It later got renamed to Leningrad before the original name was returned in 1991. Local residents often refer to the city by its shortened nickname, Piter.

Still considered Russia’s cultural capital, the city has an array of world-famous attractions and many lesser-known, but equally interesting sights and things to do in St Petersburg.

The Historic Centre of Saint Petersburg and Related Groups of Monuments are inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . This grand Russian port city on the Baltic Sea , is built across the wetlands of the Neva River delta, and spans the area of several tributaries and canals with a total length of 300 kilometres and over 800 bridges crossing them. A St Petersburg sightseeing boat trip along the river delta and its canals is highly recommended.

It is possible to explore the city independently, but if you’re pressed for time and/or looking for ease and comprehensiveness in being guided — check out one of these tours , that I would highly recommend:

To help you plan, let’s take a quick look at…

Where to Stay in Saint Petersburg

On a visit you want to be centrally located in an accommodation option that would complement your time in this beautiful city. There are a multitude of options from luxury hotels to cheap hostels that I could recommend.

>> Here are a couple of my favourite options:

• Hostel: NETIZEN Saint Petersburg Centre
• Budget: Hotel Akhilles i Cherepakha
• Mid-range: Akyan St-Petersburg
• Luxury: The State Hermitage Museum Official Hotel
• Quirky find: Petrovskiy Art Loft

Take a look and choose the one that’s the most closely aligned with your requirements and budget-range.

So let’s get into it guys….

TOP THINGS TO DO IN ST PETERSBURG RUSSIA

The city has 2000 libraries, 221 museums, 45 galleries, 80 theatres, 100 concert organizations, 62 cinemas, 80 other cultural establishments, and plays host to around 100 festivals each year.

There’s a whole list of St. Petersburg attractions to see and things to do while visiting, the likes of activities in the city parks or a boat ride along the canals of the Neva River. A visit to the Summer Gardens, Field of Mars, Anichkov Bridge, Winter Palace, the Salt district, the kunstkamera, St. Peter and Paul’s Fortress, Trinity Bridge, and the University of St. Petersburg.

The list goes on with the world-famous Hermitage Museum, Mariinsky Theatre, and State Russian Museum. Iconic churches include the Savior on Spilled Blood and St Isaac’s Cathedral. Nevsky Prospekt is the main street of the city, and its intersection with Dumskaya forms the focal nightlife district.

As you can see, the list is endless.

However, if you only have a few days in the city, here is my list of the 15 best things to do in St Petersburg Russia:

First up we have…

1 | THE STATE HERMITAGE MUSEUM

The second-largest museum in the world , the Hermitage Museum is an essential stop and one of the best things to do in St Petersburg. It possesses the largest collection of paintings in the world and a diverse range of art and artefacts from all over the world ranging from ancient Egypt to the early 20 th century Europe .

Founded in 1764 when Empress Catherine the Great acquired an impressive collection of paintings from the Berlin merchant Johann Ernst Gotzkowsky, the museum has been open to the public since 1852.

Today, the Hermitage boasts a collection of over three million items , of which only a small part is on permanent display. The vast collection of art include masterpieces by Rembrandt, Picasso, Leonardo da Vinci, Monet, Michelangelo, Raphael, Titian, Matisse, Rembrandt, Nicholas II’s library and the Jordan staircase amongst others,

Six historic and grand buildings make up the Hermitage complex along Palace Embankment, with the main building being the Winter Palace. The General Staff Building, the Menshikov Palace, Museum of Porcelain, and the Storage Facility at Staraya Derevnya are also part of the museum.

I’ve often heard the experts state that if you were to spend a minute looking at each exhibit on display in the Hermitage; you would need 11 years before you’d seen them all.

Some insider tips to make your visit easier and more enjoyable:

– The museum is closed on Mondays and entrance is free of charge the first Thursday of every month for all visitors. Wednesday and Friday are good days to visit, as the museum is open until 9 p.m.

– The entry ticket is 500 rubles (€6) per person .

– The line for tickets is always long , even at the electronic kiosk. You could purchase tickets online, saving time and avoiding the long queue, but the cost is somewhat higher.

<< To avoid standing in long lines. The best option would be a guaranteed visit with this skip-the-queue-ticket >>

– You will find two ticket machines in the courtyard of the Winter Palace where it is advisable to purchase your tickets. If you encounter a long line at the machines, walk across the square to the General Staff building and get your tickets here, where there is unlikely to be a long line. The long line at the main entrance for the Hermitage is for people who didn’t buy tickets online, for Russians who need to show evidence of being residents and for people eligible for discounts who need to show evidence to buy tickets at a discounted price in person.

– Free admission for students. Don’t forget your student card

– Audio guides are available for purchase and offer detailed commentary on the interiors and artwork, but it might be a better option to download the paid museum audio guide app on iPhone.

– The ticket for the museum is valid for one day and you can visit any or all of the sections of the museum depending on what you wish to see.

– As one day is probably not enough depending on how much you wish to see, a 2-day pass is available.

– Work out a plan for your day/time at the museum. At the entrance brochures are available describing the exhibitions in each building. It is colour coded for ease of use.

– Lots of walking so wear comfortable shoes.

– Be sure to eat sufficiently as the museum cafe has little variety and inflated prices.

– Take a water bottle with.

Metro : Nevsky Prospekt or Admiralteyskaya

[Update] Covid-10 temporary measures in place: — wearing of a face mask is compulsory while visiting the Hermitage — tickets are issued with a fixed time slot and predetermined routes

Please don’t miss visiting the…

2 | WINTER PALACE

St. Petersburg’s supreme and most famous palace , the Winter Palace is one of the greatest royal residences of the world. The former home of the Romanov Emperors and monarchs for two hundred years, the palace was constructed on a mammoth scale between 1754 and 1762, making this architectural marvel 257 years old, intended to reflect the might and power of Imperial Russia .

Today, the restored palace forms part of a complex of buildings arranged side by side along the river embankment as the main building of the world-famous Hermitage Museum.

Built for Empress Elizabeth, the daughter of Peter the Great, the Winter Palace with its distinct green-and-white three-story façade is a marvel of Baroque architecture and consists of 1,786 doors, 1,945 windows and 1,057 halls and rooms, many of which are open to the public.

Located on the banks of the Neva River, the Winter Palace is a up there amongst the things to do in St. Petersburg— perhaps even the city’s most impressive attraction and a must-see when in Russia .

Metro : Nevsky Prospekt

My personal favorite on this list of St Petersburg attractions is the…

3 | CHURCH OF THE SAVIOR ON BLOOD

My favourite spot and thing to do in Saint Petersburg, the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood is one of the city’s main sights.

Funded by the Imperial family , this church marks the spot where Emperor Alexander II was fatally wounded in an assassination attempt in March 1881. Other names include the Church on Spilled Blood and the Temple of the Savior on Spilled Blood

Located on the Griboyedov channel embankment, this church has been open for more than a hundred years. Standing there, you notice the impressive intricate details. Like the fact that it contains over 7,500 square meters of mosaics covering the ceilings and walls, more than any other church in the world.

The cathedral stands out from other structures in the city with its medieval Russian Revival architecture resembling that of St Basils in Moscow whereas the rest of the city follows a predominantly Baroque and Neoclassical style.

Being centrally located it is fairly easy to get here just a short walk from the main Nevsky Prospekt. I would advise to get here early in the morning before the tour buses arrive so that you get to enjoy the sight without the crowds.

It is worth paying the admission charge to go and view the inside.

Cost: 250 Rubles entrance for adults, 150 Rubles for kids up to 17 years and free for age under 7. Make sure to bring your student ID for a student discount to get inside.

Don’t waste time in the queue. Enjoy convenience and save time with this skip the line ticket here .

See how many fountains you count at:

4 | PETERHOF PALACE

A UNESCO World Heritage Site often referred as the Russian Versailles , Peterhof is a complex of palaces and gardens on the orders of Peter the Great. It is located about 45 minutes outside of the city centre, but is still worth a visit and one of the highlight things to do in St Petersburg.

The palace-ensemble consists of the Grand Palace ( Bolshoi Dvorets ), the Grand Cascade ( Bolshoi Kaskad ), the Upper Gardens ( Verhnyy Sad), and the Lower Gardens ( Nizhny Sad) with the former two making up the centrepiece of the entire complex.

The lower garden with most of the fountains and the upper garden are separate areas. A highlight of a visit to the gardens in addition to its sheer grandeur is the number and beauty of the fountains lined throughout. Arrive before 11 a.m. to witness the turning on of the main fountain , accompanied with music and as you wander around note that all of the fountains operate without the use of pumps.

Separate ticket entries are required for the palace, gardens, and museum. Palace: 1200 rubles During the summer season a separate ticket is required for the Lower Park. Lower Garden: 900 rubles Additional payment for all exhibitions inside.

Note that the number of ticket entries to the palace per day are limited .

I would highly recommend to guarantee your visit and save time with this Peterhof Grand Palace Fast Track ticket . You get to skip the line, enjoy a 45-minute guided audio tour in the Grand Palace, and take a walk in the vast Peterhof Lower Park, one of the most famous parks in Russia.

A downside of the visit is that if there are a lot of tour groups constantly passing through, the staff and supervisors do not let you linger, often rushing you through.

If you take the boat to Peterhof and back, you will arrive and depart from the jetty in the lower garden. If you exit the garden and want to get back to the jetty, you have to purchase another ticket entry to the garden.

The Palace is open everyday except on Mondays and the last Tuesday of each month.

Here’s how to get to Peterhof Palace:

• Minibus From metro Avtovo, number 300, 424, 224, and 204. Bus stops near the entrance to the Verkhny park. Around 30 minutes at a cost of 50 rubles.
• Boat/Hydrofoils Departs from Dvortsovaya neberejnaya (palace embankment), right behind the Hermitage. Departing every 30 minutes, from 9:30 to 16:30 Around 30 minutes at a cost of 700 – 800 rubles round trip.
• Train From metro Baltiiskaya continue until stop “Novy Petergof” Around 45 minutes at a cost of 60-70 rubles.

Next up is…

5 | SAINT ISAAC’S CATHEDRAL

At a height of 333′ and a capacity of 14,000, the gold-domed, 19th-century St. Isaac’s Cathedral is the fourth largest cathedral in the world and is one of St Petersburg’s most famous landmarks and attractions .

It is also the largest Russian orthodox basilica, with its Neoclassical and Byzantine architectural styled basilica dedicated to Saint Isaac of Dalmatia, a patron saint of Peter the Great.

There are two options/tickets available for purchase :

• A visit to the cathedral interiors called “museum visit”
• Colonnade or observatory viewpoint to the top of the church

You can easily buy the tickets, costing 250 rubles, in the machine next to the ticket office, which accept both card and cash.

Sculptures of the apostles stand guard at the top of St Isaac’s and once inside, notice the doors festooned with biblical scenes, the ceiling painting and St Catherine’s Chapel.

To get to the top you have to climb up 200 steps, for wonderful 360-degree views of Saint Petersburg from its gilded viewing platform. The steps are numbered at every tenth step to keep track of your progress with two different staircases going up and down to avoid running into each other.

Metro : Isaakievskaya Ploshchad

Witness a world-class performance at:

6 | MARIINSKY THEATRE

Number 6 on this list of best things to do in St Petersburg is the world-renowned Mariinsky theatre. Located in the heart of Saint Petersburg, it is an ostentatious complex comprising world famous opera and ballet .

Opened in 1860, this historic theatre and opera house has played host to some of Russia’s most renowned established performers ; the likes of Anna Pavlova, Fiodor Shaliapin, Matilda Kshesinskaya, and Vatslav Nizhinsky, amongst others.

Don’t miss the opportunity to stop by at Theatre Square and witness one of the top ballet and opera companies in the world.

Metro : Nevsky Prospekt, Gostiny Dvor and Admiratleiskaya

We’re halfway through the list already.

7 | ST PETERSBURG PALACE BRIDGE

Often referred to as Venice of the North , Saint Petersburg consists of hundreds of bridges traversing numerous canals and distributaries of the Neva Delta. You cannot move very far in the center of the city without crossing a bridge.

Of the 342 bridges in the city, the Palace Bridge is probably the most famous and the sight of this bridge drawn at night is a symbol of the city .

During the navigation period from April to November, 22 bridges across the Neva and main canals are drawn every night around 1 a.m. to let ships pass through to the Baltic Sea.

You can view this spectacle as part of a boat tour or from the side of the riverbanks.

This Raising Drawbridges Night Boat Tour gives you the opportunity to enjoy amazing views along the route while watching the main bridges across the Neva River being raised right in front of your eyes.

Time it well and you can get that perfect Instagram shot of the raised platform of this simply designed bridge framing the Peter & Paul Cathedral in the background. There are also notable views from the bridge of the Winter Palace, the Peter and Paul Fortress and the rows of regal buildings along the banks of the river.

A great show as crowds gather to watch the movement of the bridges and the passing ships amongst music , good vibes and people hanging out. A worthwhile thing to see while visiting St Petersburg — I highly recommend a visit to witness and be a part of this.

Metro : Admiralteyskaya metro station

8 | PETER AND PAUL FORTRESS

Walking around the St Petersburg, a bell-tower soaring over 100 m, will grab your attention at some point. This is a part of the huge citadel that makes up the Peter and Paul Fortress and its tower is the tallest in the city centre.

I’d say a visit to the fortress, situated on an island surrounded by the Neva River, is one of the top things to do in St. Petersburg. It is worth a half-day visit and as a bonus you will be provided with great views of the city and its surrounding islands making for some beautiful city photos.

Founded by Peter the Great in 1703 and built over three hundred years ago , the Peter and Paul Fortress is the original bastion and star fortress of St. Petersburg.

It was still used as a prison and execution ground by the Bolshevik government in the early 1920s, but nowadays this island, where the city was born, serves as the main location of the annual celebrations of the city day that take place on May 27. And according to a centuries-old tradition, a cannon is fired from the Naryshkin Bastion every day at noon .

The fortress contains several noteworthy buildings . The Peter and Paul Cathedral with its 122.5 m bell-tower and gilded angel-topped cupola, is the burial place of all Russian tsars. Other structures inside the fortress include the city museum, the still functioning Saint Petersburg Mint building, and the prison cells of the Trubetskoy Bastion.

The fortress walls overlook sandy beaches that, in summer, are a popular hangout spot in the city, especially when a major festival is taking place on the shore.

Hours: Open 10am-6pm, closed Tues and Wed. Admission: Free entrance to wander inside the fortress walls. Prices of the exhibits vary. Metro: Gorkovskaya

Time to get to…

9 | KAZAN CATHEDRAL

Built in Empire architectural style in the beginning of the 19 th century and inspired by the St. Peters Basilica in Rome, the Kazan Cathedral is a cathedral of the Russian Orthodox Church.

Although closed for services during the Soviet era, the cathedral is open at present and is an active working church that you may enter free of charge .

Located in Kazan Square on the Nevsky Prospekt, the impressively proportioned cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady of Kazan. is dedicated to Our Lady of Kazan, probably the most revered icon in Russia.

This huge neoclassical style cathedral makes for a good stop during your visit to St Petersburg and also contains the burial site of the man who defeated Emperor Napoleon, officer Mikhail Kutuzov.

Metro: Nevsky Prospekt or Gostiny Dvor stations

You must take a stroll along:

10 | NEVSKY PROSPECT

St. Petersburg’s main avenue and one of the best-known streets in Russia , Nevsky Prospekt is the centre of the city’s commercial, cultural, and social activities.

Planned by Peter the Great and named after the 13th-century Russian prince Alexander Nevsky, this avenue was the beginning of the road to Novgorodand Moscow and runs through the heart of the city from the Admiralty to the Moscow Railway Station to the Alexander Nevsky Lavra.

Running 4,5 kms in length, today Nevsky Prospekt serves as the main road in Saint Petersburg with the majority of the city’s shopping and nightlife located on this avenue.

This lively street is also lined with many of the most famous attractions in St Petersburg.

The main sights to be found on this street include the Kazan Cathedral, the Russian National Library, Rastrelliesque Stroganov Palace, the Art Nouveau Bookhouse, a couple 18th-century churches, Catherine the Great monument, a huge18th-century shopping mall, the Singer House, and the Anichkov Bridge amongst others.

Don’t miss out on seeing:

11 | ST PETERSBURG PALACE SQUARE

The heart of the former Russian empire and present day St. Petersburg, Palace Square is the city’s main plaza and its most famous . Add this to your list of things to do in Saint Petersburg.

It’s the best place for perceiving the grandeur and atmosphere of St. Petersburg, both during the times of the Tsars and present day. A visit early in the morning and you get witness to the military parade. A visit in the evening and you’ll get to enjoy the sounds of street musicians .

Connecting much of the city, including Nevsky Prospekt with Palace Bridge and Vasilievsky Island, Palace square is surrounded by ostentatious buildings . This includes Rastrelli’s Winter Palace, the General Staff Building, and the Admiralty – historical home of the Russian Navy.

In the centre of the square you will find the 155 foot-tall Alexander Column. This red column made from granite and weighing 600 tons is dedicated to the Russian military victory in the war with Napoleon’s France .

The most famous and earliest building on the square, the baroque Winter Palace gives the square its name.

Worth a visit is:

12 | SUMMER GARDENS

Across the river from the Peter and Paul fortress and behind the wrought iron fence there is an old park that has witnessed some of the most important moments in St. Petersburg’s early history . This is the formal gardens of the Summer Palace.

Impressed by the royal parks that Czar Peter had seen in Europe, he wanted to create something similar in his newly built city. Everything was fashioned according to the latest trends; decorated with fountains, marble sculptures and ponds and trees and bushes trimmed in an extravagant manner.

Used by Peter to organize regular receptions and balls in the gardens, the historic Summer Gardens remains one of the most idealistic and picturesque places to see in St Petersburg.

The vibe at the Summer Gardens on a summer evening is lovely , where you can buy snacks and ice cream while enjoying the performances of street artists all over.

Metro : Gostiny Dvor, Nevsky Prospekt, Chernyshevskaya.

13 | SINGER HOUSE (DOM KNIGI)

St. Petersburg’s largest and most famous bookshop , also commonly known as the House of the Book or Dom Knigi, occupies one of the most beautiful buildings on the city’s main avenue.

It is impossible to miss partly because of its location on Nevsky Prospekt directly opposite the Kazan Cathedral, but mainly because of its opulent Art Nouveau design.

Renowned as a historical landmark , Singer House has official status as a part of Russian cultural heritage.

This place doesn’t hold a lot of English books, but it is still worth a look, especially if you’re a book lover. You will also find a souvenir shop and café inside.

Metro : Nevsky Prospekt / Gostiny Dvor

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11 Responses

• Pingbacks 5

I’m not that much of a internet reader to be honest but your blog is really nice, keep it up! I’ll go ahead and bookmark your site to come back later. All the best

Thanks a whole lot dude! You toooo

Saint Petersburg Russia – Such a wonderful place to visit! Instagrammable, a picture-perfect place, very classic, and lots of things to do. Thanks for sharing this endless list on how to enjoy St. Petersburg! Great list!

Awesome to hear! Yeah I agree, St. Petersburg is a must see in Russia. Thank you

Seriously this article makes me feel interested to visit SPB someday. You successfully deliver the city spots only with a single article, full with how to get there so I have a clue how to get into the sites when I go there. Kudos!

Good to hear! Thanks for this. I hope you do get to see this beautiful city in Russia someday, soon. Let me know if you need any other info. Cheers.

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11 Places to Visit in St Petersburg, Russia For the Best Photos

From the minute we touched foot in the city, we were on a quest to uncover the best places to visit in St Petersburg for photos.

This may be surprising because no one really talks about the photogenic side of the city but St. Petersburg offers a chance to photograph and experience ancient history, culture, architecture, classic art, nature and cityscapes all within close proximity of one another.

We made it our mission to capture the best photo spots in St. Petersburg so we could share it with you.

After our 3 days in St. Petersburg we can understand why it was named Europe’s leading destination at the World Travel Awards.

The city has a way of presenting itself that is unique to what you would normally see while traveling in Europe .

Perhaps it’s the whispers of a long seeded past that you hear while wandering the halls or streets that give the St. Petersburg it’s the allure.

Either way, it’s a magical place, so grab your camera and get ready to hit the best photo spots in St. Petersburg.

11 Best Places to Visit in St Petersburg, Russia

Table of Contents

1. Winter Palace And Hermitage Museum

Once you enter Palace Square,  you will be drawn to photograph a green-and-white three-story building.

This building is a marvel of Baroque architecture with its tall windows, gold-leafed trim, large pillars and tall cast-iron gates with the iconic gold double-headed eagle. You have just feasted your eyes on the Winter Palace.

The Winter Palace is part of the Hermitage Museum that is open to the public and you are allowed to take photos inside, making this one of the best places to visit in St Petersburg.

This building is as amazing to photograph inside as it is outside. Within the Winter Palace and the Hermitage are some of the most cherished Russian treasures on display throughout 350 rooms.

You will feel like a Russian royal as you capture the sites and sounds around the elegant and lavishly decorated halls and rooms. Gaze up at the gold leaf as you’re walking up the red-carpeted stairs of the Jordan Staircase.

Special Secret: Book yourself onto a tour that will give you special access to the Winter Palace. This will give you access to the museum before it opens to the public. We did this on our recent Russian river cruise with Viking River Cruises and virtually had the palace to ourselves. Prime photoshoot moment.

Recommend time to allow for photographing the Winter Palace and Hermitage Museum: 3-4 hours.

2. Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood

Just a walk along the outside of the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood and you will understand why it’s one of the best places to visit in St Petersburg .

It’s a stunning church from all angles with so much life built up around the Church.

Tourists and locals flock to it from all over with locals selling tourist goods, scuffling past the tourists to pay their respects, street performers and street artists trying to get you to pose with owls.

The experience is lively, to say the least.

After taking in the incredible architecture of the outside you may prepare to be disappointed by the interior, however, the best comes last.

Once walking into the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood you will not be able to stop looking up at the incredible mosaic work. I challenge you to get creative in capturing the light and art on display inside this church.

Recommend time to allow for photographing the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood: 1-2 hours. The Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood can get crowded at times and this is a prime spot for pickpockets and bag snatchers, so keep your gear on the front of you.

3. Aleksandrovsky S ad (Alexander Garden)

Aleksandrovsky S ad, also known as the Alexander Garden, is not one of the largest or most beautiful parks in the city.

However, it is one of the best places to visit in St. Petersburg because it’s the best spot to photograph St. Isaac’s Cathedral with flowers and/or the park lawn in the background.

I feel it’s one of the few spots to photograph the whole Cathedral without large groups of tour buses in your photograph.

Throughout the day this little park will be filled with many locals as it is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the busy city.

Many locals sit on the green lawns just enjoying the peace and quiet with great views of the Neva River and St. Isaac’s Cathedral.

It’s also a great place to snipe some wedding type photos as it does not matter what day it is, you will be able to find couples getting their wedding photos taken in this park.

Recommend time to allow for photographing Aleksandrovsky Sad: 30 minutes

4. Summer Garden

Just take a stroll through the Summer Garden and you will fall in love with the oldest park in St. Petersburg . The look of the Summer Garden is based on Versailles and they did a great job of matching it.

The real gem is in the gardens with many fountains and statues. Besides photographing the architecture, a variety of rare flowers and plants can be found.

Feel like you have stepped back into time as you stroll the paths where nobility used to hold prestigious balls. This is the very reason we’ve added it to our best photo spots in St. Petersburg list.

Recommend time to allow for photographing Summer Gardens: 1-2 hours.

5. St. Isaac’s Cathedral

No matter where you are in St. Petersburg you can see the gold dome of St. Isaac’s Cathedral. This dome was built with more than 100kg of gold leaf and when we were there it was getting restored.

So sometimes it can be a challenge to work around ugly scaffolding when trying to capture photos. 

Once you get closer though, you will be able to make out the cathedral’s facades that are decorated with sculptures and massive granite columns. This is the fourth largest cathedral in the world and it’s lit up pretty well at night.

Once inside, it will be hard for you to keep your eyes from looking up at the incredibly detailed mosaic icons and paintings.

You will be drawn to a large, brightly colored stained glass window of the “Resurrected Christ”.

However, most tourists bypass everything inside and head up to the top. You can climb 300 steps to the top of St. Isaac’s Cathedral for some great views over the city of St. Petersburg .

Recommend time to allow for photographing St. Isaac’s Cathedral: 2 hours if you’re planning to climb up to the top for epic views of St. Petersburg .

6. Palace Square in St. Petersburg Russia

St.P etersburg’s palace square has been engraved into many major events in Russian history. With the iconic Winter Palace on one side and the Hermitage Museum on the other, the palace square opens up between them with the tall Alexander Column marking the center.

This red granite column is the tallest of its kind in the world. In the palace square, you can expect to find actors dressed up as old Russian military solders or even as Catherine the Great posing with tourists for photos.

This square is huge and I mean huge (bring the wide-angle lens for this one folk) and it can be filled at the busiest of times.

The square also turns into an open-air concert hall at times of the year and can be quite lively. Keep your valuables close and make sure you put your wallets in your front pockets.

Pickpockets to target tourist in this area and if your not careful you will lose something.

Recommended time to allow for photographing Palace Square: 15-20 minutes and it’s better to make different visits if you can just to capture the different light during the day.

7. Catherine’s Palace and Gardens

Catherine’s Palace is one of the most popular places to visit in St Petersburg but inside the Grand Palace, photos are not permitted in many rooms.

So why are we including it on our best photo spots in St. Petersburg? Because Catherine’s palace outside grounds are as impressive as the inside and you can take photos at will while you explore.

You can truly get lost in nature while exploring the different sections of these French-style gardens.

It was surprising because there were large groups of tourists, however, most of them only go to the main fountains of the park and that is it.

This leaves much of the place empty for you to explore with your camera. Don’t be scared to explore the grounds, however, don’t step off the grass because there is a guard who will blow his whistle at you.

Recommend time to allow for photographing Catherine’s Palace and Gardens: 3-4 hours, it can get busy later in the day so show up early to be one of the first in the grounds.

8. Alexandrinsky Theater Russian Ballet

A visit to St. Petersburg could not be complete without seeing a Russian Ballet.

There are many theaters in the city, however since we are looking for the best places to visit in St. Petersburg for photos, the Alexandrinsky Theater stood out with its large park in front and it’s Empire-style architecture outside.

Just stepping through the doors of the oldest national theater in St. Petersburg will find you transported back in time. The inside of the theater still has its historical look and feel. Grab a seat and enjoy the show.

We enjoyed the world-renowned performance of Swan Lake during our visit and we must say, it was performed to perfection.

A really fun way to add a little luxury to your evening out at the ballet is by hiring Blacklane limousine service to take you from your hotel to the theater in style.

Recommend time to allow for photographing Alexandrinsky Theater: 2-3 hours depending on the show.

9. Canal Cruise

With the sea to one side and the rivers to another, there are few cities like St. Petersburg in the world. Did you know St. Petersburg, Russia is based on the iconic city of Amsterdam with all of its canals?

Jumping on an open-air boat allows you to photograph most of the major buildings in a short amount of time along with giving you a different point of view.

The canals of St. Petersburg stretch a total length of 300 kilometers with over 800 different bridges crossing them. Every bridge is different and has its owns a unique style and story.

The canals that run through the city are one of the best places to visit in St Petersburg for photos.

Recommend time to allow for photographing Canal Cruise: 2-3 hours

10. Admiralty Embankment

Stroll along the Admiralty Embankment under its large canopy of trees with the Neva River on one side of you and some of the most historic buildings of St. Petersburg on the other side of you.

You will find locals selling all kinds of items from antiques to Russian hats. Throughout the day musicians will be playing classical music while travelers and locals pass on by.

The Admiralty Embankment is a great place to jump on one of the many river cruises to explore St. Petersburg by its canals and rivers as well.

Along the riverbank, you can find two of the most popular sculptures in the city. One called the Tsar Carpenter that shows a young many building a ship and the other is the epic Lions on Palace Pier.

This large marble lion statue is the most photographed statue by tourists in St. Petersburg .

Recommend time to allow for photographing Admiralty Embankment: 1 hour

11. Peter and Paul Fortress

If you’re looking for one of the best panoramic views of St. Petersburg you must head to the top of the walls of Peter and Paul Fortress on Zayachy Island.

Besides great panoramic views of St. Petersburg, it caters to the history buff. For photograph inspiration, stand under the sky-scraping bell tower topped with an angel cupola and walk among the dead in the Grand Ducal Mausoleum.

If you’re not into history and cathedrals, you can grab a towel and enjoy the sandy beaches with the fortress walls surrounding them. This is one of the most popular places for locals to enjoy the few and far between sunny days in St. Petersburg .

Recommend time to allow for photographing Peter and Paul Fortress: 2-3 hours

Best Places to Visit in St. Petersburg Conclusion

There are so many great places to visit in St. Petersburg that offer so many great photo opportunities and every spot has its own uniqueness.

Just like other places in the world, you may have to sit and wait for that perfect photo opportunity, especially if you visit in the peak summer months, however, when it all comes together it’s magic.

We love to give travelers inside tips on photography and we understand you may not have as much time as we do as full-time travelers when you arrive in a new place.

This is why we have put together the best photo spots, so you have an idea before you visit, saving you time and allowing you to get those epic photos that will make your friends and family jealous.

Click to read about all of the camera gear we carry: Ultimate Travel Photography Gear List

More on Russia:

• 17 Interesting Things to Do in Moscow
• Russian River Cruises: Waterways of the Tsars
• 15 Best Cities in Europe to Visit

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I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

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St. Petersburg   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Getty Images |

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.

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Top 10 Places to Visit in Saint Petersburg

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Surprising every guest with an immense wealth of unique sights and experiences to offer, from majestic palaces and monumental drawing bridges to elegant galleries and lively art hubs, Saint Petersburg has everything to keep you entertained for months!

Hermitage Museum

Indeed, any Saint Petersburg itinerary won’t be complete without its most famous visitor attraction beautifully set on the banks of the mighty Neva River, the Hermitage . The complex consists of six buildings, one of which is the legendary Winter Palace. This massive part of the Hermitage used to be the home for the Russian emperors and even today preserves its incomparable royal touch. Apart from being a unique masterpiece itself, the Hermitage houses one of the largest art collections on the planet, which is absolutely impossible to observe at once since it features over three million items!

Peter and Paul Fortress

While strolling along the mighty Neva River, a remarkable 122-meter-bell-tower (400 ft) will definitely catch your eye. This is an honorable part of the monumental Peter and Paul Fortress gloriously standing on Hare Island. Today being among the most famous places in Saint Petersburg, this citadel was built by Peter the Great to protect the city during the Northern War. Moreover, this structure consists of several noteworthy buildings, including the State Museum of Saint Petersburg history and the Trubetskoy Bastion. Apart from delving deeply into the town's historical past, as a bonus, you will be provided with magnificent panoramas of Northern Venice and its surrounding islands.

Interesting to Know During your visit, you can also hear the fire of the cannon which announces noon according to the ancient tradition.

Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood

Located right on the Griboyedov channel, this multicolored church is among the city’s main symbols. Funded by the Romanov family, the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood was constructed on the spot where Emperor Alexander II got tragically assassinated by politician nihilists, which explains the suffix “on Spilled Blood” in the name of the cathedral. In addition to its eventful past, the church strikes all visitors with its splendid looks. Let yourself get mesmerized by the incredible amount of intricate details making its interior so awe-inspiring and, of course, the mosaics, which occupy more than 23 000 feet of its walls!

Eager to go a bit beyond? You should then know that one of the best Saint Petersburg destinations for one-day trips is the Peterhof complex , located just 30 kilometers (18 miles) from the city. Built by Peter the Great, this former residence of Russian Tsars is dotted with fancy statues, lush gardens, and, shockingly, 173 fountains of various designs supplied with the water from underground springs! The most famous one is called “Grand Cascade” and features 64 fountains beautifully placed on different levels creating a striking composition!

Catherine's Palace

Once served as a summer residence of the imperial family, charming Catherine's Palace just can't be missed during your trip to the city of Tsars. Although this fantastic place is located in Tsarskoe Selo, Catherine's Palace is still listed in our rating of the "best places to go in Saint Petersburg" thanks to its impressive historical significance and ethereal architectural beauty. Hard to believe, but over 100 kilos of gold was used to embellish this royal ensemble! A must-see treasure of the museum is the richly decorated Amber Room, which was accurately reconstructed after the devastation by Nazi soldiers.

Fun Fact Empress Catherine was famous for her attention to detail: the legend says that the complex was renovated at least 6 times!

Faberge Museum

Hosting over 4000 exhibits, the wonderful Faberge Museum is situated in the Shuvalov Palace. Carl Faberge started his career by creating jewelry but made his name with his unique eggs that were initially conceived as Easter gifts for the royal family members. Even though many Faberge items were gone throughout history, today, you can see some of the well-preserved eggs in the museum and appreciate the details of their adornment with your own eyes!

Mariinsky theater

Classical ballet is the national pride of the country and a true trademark of the Russian culture. Looking for a chance to see the greatest show? Indeed, one of the most beautiful places in Saint Petersburg is the world-renowned Mariinsky theater. Set right in the heart of the city, this flamboyant complex provides a unique opportunity to witness iconic opera and ballet performances held according to time-honored traditions. Since its opening in 1860, this chic, luxurious opera house has welcomed some of Russia’s most talented performers like Fioder Shaliapin, Matilda Kshesinskaya, Vatslav Nizhinsky, and Anna Pavlova, to name a few.

Fun Fact The very first ballet school in St. Petersburg was founded in 1738.

Kazan Cathedral

During your walk along the Nevsky Prospekt, make sure to stop by the stunning Kazan Cathedral, which is located right near the Singer House. This marvelous monument's architectural design stands out thanks to the imposing features of the Empire style, which create this enduring look of the cathedral. Being a cathedral of the Russian Orthodox Church, this place is named in honor of Our Lady of Kazan, often referred to as a "miracle-making" icon in Russia.

Yusupov Palace

Do you have a thing for mysteries? If yes, think about including enigmatic Yusupov Palace into your Saint Petersburg route. Here you can learn more about the fate of Grigori Rasputin, who was believed to have superhuman powers and, therefore, an influence on the Tsar's family. The building's exterior may seem relatively simple from the first sight, but once you get inside, be ready to get enchanted by the generously decorated halls with fancy furniture, extravagant artworks, and graceful frescoes that still reflect peculiarities of the aristocratic lifestyle.

Drawing of the Bridges

Eager to spice up your Saint Petersburg vacation with an engaging activity and discover the city from another perspective? This place has something exceptional for you since you can spend a memorable evening enjoying the legendary drawing of the bridges ! Scattered around the area, 342 bridges were constructed in different periods of time and today impress all guests of the town with a variety of styles. To witness the fabulous show, head to one of the four grand drawbridges: the Blagoveshchensky Bridge, the Palace Bridge, the Trinity Bridge, and the Foundry Bridge.

The most beautiful drawing bridges in St Petersburg:

• The Palace Bridge
• The Blagoveshchensky Bridge
• The Trinity Bridge
• The Foundry Bridge

Even though this list is really extensive, we covered just a part of Saint Petersburg attractions that should be included in your sightseeing itinerary. Still have any questions left? Then feel free to contact our destination specialists , who will gladly help you by planning a perfect Saint Petersburg route allowing you to see the best in the city. Looking for the best way to reach Saint Petersburg from Moscow or travel vice versa? Check more information about Sapsan high-speed train providing a direct connection between outstanding Russian capitals!

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32 incredible UNESCO sites located in Russia (PHOTOS)

1. Historical center of St. Petersburg and related groups of monuments

The first sites were included on the UNESCO list back in 1990 in the USSR and the main landmarks of St. Petersburg were among them, including a huge number of countryside palaces. e.g. Peterhof, Gatchina and others.

2. Kizhi Pogost

Wooden Karelian churches of the 18th-19th centuries, built, according to legend, without a single nail.

3. Moscow Kremlin   &   Red Square

In addition to the square, St. Basil's Cathedral and other monuments of the 13th-17th century on the territory of the Moscow Kremlin are included.

4. Historic monuments of Novgorod   &   surroundings

The Kremlin-detinets (fortified complex) in Veliky Novgorod and the nearby monasteries and churches, the oldest of which date back to the 11th century, have been under UNESCO protection since 1992.

5.   Cultural   &   Historic Ensemble of the Solovetsky Islands

The 16th century Solovetsky Monastery is located on an archipelago in the White Sea. In addition to the main part with the fortress wall and churches, hermitages and churches on remote islands are also on the list.

6. White monuments of Vladimir   &   Suzdal

In these two cities on Russia's ‘Golden Ring’ route, there are priceless masterpieces of Old Russian architecture of the 12th-13th centuries and incredible white stone churches.

7. Architectural Ensemble of the Trinity Sergius Lavra in Sergiev Posad

Considered the most important monastery of the Russian Orthodox Church, it was founded by St. Sergius of Radonezh and is located near Moscow.

8. Church of the Ascension in Kolomenskoye (Moscow)

This 16th century white building was the first stone “tent” church, a unique masterpiece of architecture of its time, which has earned its place on the list.

9. Virgin Komi forests

In 1995, this specially protected area of the Northern Urals was one of the first to be included on the UNESCO list of natural sites.

10. Lake Baikal

The world's main reservoir of fresh water and the deepest lake on the planet.

11. Volcanoes of Kamchatka

The unique natural giants in the Far East were taken under UNESCO protection in 1996 and, in 2001, the list of volcanoes was extended. Many of them are still active!

12. Golden Mountains of Altai

In this exactly wording, the three most picturesque parts of the Altai Mountains in Siberia were included on the list.

13. Western Caucasus

The part of the Main Caucasus Range from Mount Fisht to Mount Elbrus was included on the list, because these parts of the mountain relief are practically untouched by humans, which is a rarity for Europe (and the European part of Russia).

14. Historical   &   architectural complex of the Kazan Kremlin

The Kazan Kremlin was built when these lands were part of the Muslim Kazan Khanate. And then, Kazan was conquered by Ivan the Terrible and Orthodox churches were also built in the kremlin.

15. Ensemble of Ferapontov Monastery

The small monastery in the wilderness of Vologda Region, built in the 14th-17th centuries, is astonishingly beautiful. Inside, there are also frescoes by the legendary Dionisius.

16. Curonian Spit

The dunes on the Baltic Sea in Kaliningrad Region and the twisted pines made the list as an outstanding example of human interaction with the environment. It is humans who have helped this landscape to survive to this day.

17. Central Sikhote-Alin

This biosphere reserve and mountain range in the Far East preserves unique species of animals and plants, including the rare Amur tiger.

18. Uvs Nuur Basin

Part of this natural attraction is located in Mongolia and part in the Republic of Tyva in Russia. In 2003, it was included on the list as the northernmost of all drainless basins in Central Asia. Also, a huge variety of different birds gather there all year round.

19. Citadel, ancient city   &   fortress buildings of Derbent

One of the oldest cities in Russia was founded in the 6th century BC! And the local fortress from the 6th century AD is the oldest in Russia.

20. Natural system of Wrangel Island Reserve

The northernmost nature reserve is located on an island in the Arctic Ocean in the Russian Far East. There are many endemic animals there, that is, which live only in these parts. Whales, walruses, polar bears and musk oxen can also be found there.

21. Ensemble of the Novodevichy Convent (Moscow)

One of the most beautiful Moscow monasteries of the 16th-17th centuries was built in the "Moscow Baroque" style. Nuns that spent their lives there were mostly representatives of the royal family and other noble families. 

22. Historical Center of the City of Yaroslavl

Some of the sights of this ancient city are depicted on the 1,000-ruble bill. UNESCO appreciated not only the landmarks of ancient Russia, but also the fact that it is "an outstanding example of the urban planning reform Empress Catherine the Great ordered for the whole of Russia in 1763".

23. Struve geodetic arc

By taking measurements along this arc from Norway to the Black Sea, 19th century scientists determined the exact shape of the Earth. The research was carried out by the Russian Empire together with Sweden and Norway. Of the 265 triangulation points (geodetic measurement points), 34 surviving ones are on the UNESCO list. Two of them are in Russia and obelisks have been erected there.

24. Putorana Plateau

This is one of the most difficult to access places on the planet, yet with an absolutely incredible unique landscape of dissected mountain ranges.

25. Lena Pillars Nature Park

These huge rocks on the banks of the Lena River are located in Yakutia, the largest and coldest region of Russia.

26. Bolgar historical   &   archaeological complex

In the Muslim republic of Tatarstan, there is the unique city of Bolgar, where monuments of the 10th-15th centuries have been preserved: mausoleums, khan's tombs and minarets of unsaved mosques. They were once founded by the Volga Bulgars and it was considered the territory of the Golden Horde.

27. Landscapes of Dauria

In 2017, because of its unique ecosystems, the steppes of the Daurian Reserve were included in the list of natural heritage. It is home to rare birds and the Mongolian gazelle migrates through these areas.

28. Assumption cathedral   &   monastery of the town-island of Sviyazhsk

Another cultural attraction in Tatarstan. This 16th century complex became the cradle of Orthodoxy on the territory of the former Kazan Khanate.

29. Churches of the Pskov school of architecture

Unique examples of Old Russian architecture, which cannot be found anywhere else in Russia. The oldest temples date back to the 12th century. A total of 10 churches from Pskov and Pskov Region were listed under this item in 2019.

30. Petroglyphs of Lake Onega   &   the White Sea

In the north of Russia, pieces of monumental art of the primitive era can also be found. These rock inscriptions and drawings date back to 4-5 thousand years BC.

31. Astronomical observatories of Kazan Federal University

Two observatories from Kazan are the latest cultural heritage sites from Russia. Read more about them here . 

32. Ancient city of Tauric Chersonese

The complex of Chersonesos includes the ruins of this 5th century B.C. Greek city. This place is considered to be especially important, as, according to legend, Prince Vladimir, the baptizer of Russia, converted to Christianity there.

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Top Things to Do in St. Petersburg, Russia - St. Petersburg Must-See Attractions

Things to do in st. petersburg, explore popular experiences, top attractions in st. petersburg.

Other Top Attractions around St. Petersburg

15 Things To Do In St. Petersburg: Complete Guide To Skipping Tampa

L ocated within the Tampa Bay Area, the city of St Petersburg is on the Gulf Coast of Florida and offers an amazing array of things to do. Slightly smaller than its rival, Tampa, the city has one of the most striking waterfront park systems in the US. Occupying the tip of the peninsula located between Tampa Bay and the Mexican Gulf, St Petersburg has irresistible, scenic beaches dotted with lush, white sand and sparkling waters .

Compared to Tampa, its beaches are more pristine, and downtown St Petersburg offers a wholesome, tantalizing touristic experience. Moreover, to its west, it is bordered by other smaller towns, cities, and barrier islands which make for idyllic travel destinations. St. Pete Beach, for instance, was ranked by travelers on Trip Advisor to be the best beach in North America in 2021 and is a favorite of many travelers visiting St Petersburg.

UPDATE: 2023/05/23 11:54 EST BY NOAH STAATS

There Are More Things To See And Do In St. Petersburg, Florida!

This article has been refreshed with new places to explore while in St. Pete, new photos, and tips for vacationing here. Whether someone wants to visit the pier, lay in the sand, stroll through a park, or even spend the day admiring art: St. Petersburg has it all. Have fun!

Things To Do

In addition to beaches and parks, St Petersburg is renowned for the preservation of its charming, vibrant heritage. With several museums and art galleries, the city has all it takes to give vacationers a lengthy bucket list of things to do during their visit. Consider this the ultimate guide to vacationing in St. Petersburg, Florida.

St. Pete Pier

One fun spot to check out while in St. Petersburg is the all-new St. Pete Pier. Here, people can look out onto the beautiful blue Gulf of Mexico and enjoy the city's picturesque skyline. This pier extends into Tampa Bay from downtown St. Petersburg and is one of the more popular things to do while here.

The St. Pete Pier recently underwent a massive renovation, giving tourists an all-new property to check out during their vacation. There are also beaches nearby, so this is the perfect spot to spend a few hours during the afternoon.

Furthermore, St. Pete Pier recently underwent a reconstruction and renovation, meaning those who see it moving forward get to experience the all-new property. On top of the pier, there are also beaches nearby, making this a great stop before or after tanning and swimming.

Florida has some of the best beaches in the United States, making St. Petersburg the perfect place to enjoy them.

One thing to remember when visiting this pier and the beaches nearby is that parking can be difficult during weekends and holidays. Therefore, it might be a better idea to take a taxi/Uber/Lyft to the St. Pete Pier and then walk to the beach. This could end up saving the group trouble at the start or finish of their day in the sun.

Tropicana Field

Anyone wanting to watch a sports game while in St. Petersburg, they will likely be heading over to Tropicana Field. This is a multi-use sports arena located within the city of St. Pete. Here, people can experience a world-class stadium with drinks, food, memorabilia, and on-site parking.

According to the MLB , Tropicana Field's 1.1 million square feet include unique design features and fan amenities found nowhere else in the Major Leagues. This sets the venue apart from others in Florida, making it a hub for sports lovers near and far.

What makes this stadium nice is it is domed, meaning people in Florida can escape the summer heat and humidity while inside. There are many sports stadiums and arenas in Florida that are open to the natural elements, which can make watching a sports game uncomfortable during hotter months.

Therefore, if someone wants to see a baseball game, for instance, while in St. Pete, they want to come here.

St. Petersburg Saturday Morning Market

If someone in St. Pete wants to live life like a local on the weekends, heading to the Saturday Morning Market will be fun. Here, people gather to sell homemade crafts, fresh produce, fruit, and plants, all while enjoying live music at a lively venue.

This is a hub for local creatives and those from all of South Florida.

• For the hours of this market, tourists can expect it to be open every Saturday from 9 AM to 2 PM.
• Address: 230 1st St SE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

Of course, there could be weather restrictions or other holidays to be aware of, which could affect the market hours. It's a good idea to keep a close eye on their website before heading out.

The St. Petersburg Saturday Morning Market is open weekly from 9 AM to 2 PM. This could be a nice way to support local businesses and creators and should be a few hours of fun. It's worth noting that because of the 2 PM closing time, people may want to head over here earlier than later in the afternoon. During peak seasons, the market can become heavily crowded, so that is another detail to remember.

Fort De Soto Park

With its numerous parks, St Petersburg offers an abundance of green areas to relax or have a picnic. These parks mostly front Tampa Bay, Mexican Gulf, or inland lakes, adding to their visual appeal and ambiance.

The advantage of this waterfront and park integration is that apart from hiking and sightseeing , one can engage in water sports activities as well.

Located towards the southernmost part of St Petersburg, the park is a blend of oceanfront beauty and rich flora existing on five scenic islands (or offshore keys). Used for military purposes in the past, the park hosts a historical fort, a museum documenting this rich history, as well as relics from its past.

In addition, there are two piers where visitors are allowed to fish and two beaches, North Beach and East Beach, which are ideal for swimming.

It also has nature trails for hiking, a canoe trail for some on-water exploration, a camping ground with amenities for comfort, and a pet playground.

North Beach has often been named one of the top beaches in the US, and it led the rankings of Dr. Beach in 2005.

Boyd Hill Nature Preserve

This is a beautiful nature preserve sitting on the shores of Lake Maggiore, with trails for walking and non-motorized bikes to explore its 100-hectare expanse. Aside from birds, other animal species like snakes, amphibians, and alligators are also preserved here. There are sites for picnicking within the preserve and an Environmental Education Center, which organizes camps appropriate for different ages .

• Admission into the preserve is charged at around $3 for adults, $1.50 for children aged between 3 and 16 years, and is free for minors 3 years and below.

A great waterfront park adjacent to Vinoy Park Hotel, with a number of cool spots to have a picnic. The park routinely hosts events such as St Petersburg’s Ribfest and Tampa Bay’s Blues Festival, as well as other varied concerts and triathlon competitions.

Complete with playgrounds, a swimming area, outdoor furniture, and trails for strolling or biking; visitors can choose to have an active or relaxing experience at the park.

Sawgrass Lake Park

With a maple swamp as part of its area, Sawgrass Lake Park is a unique place for the conservation of wildlife . It is a critical migratory spot for birds in the fall and spring and is also home to numerous other wildlife species like alligators and snakes.

There is an observation tower strategically located to offer a splendid view of the lake, as well as a raised boardwalk winding around the swampy areas. There is also a designated picnic area to make a quick stop at for refreshments.

• It is open daily from 7:00 am till sunset, save for Christmas Day and the day after Thanksgiving.

The Sunken Gardens

Set in the heritage-rich Historic Old Northeast area of the city is both a historic and nature-rich attraction. The scenic botanical gardens were once a roadside commercial center and have been in existence for more than a century.

The gardens are currently home to more than 50,000 species of tropical plants, especially flowers, growing close to picturesque waterfalls and pools. Some areas are sectioned into small gardens dedicated to cacti, flowers, flamingoes, and other types of flora and fauna.

Go To The Beach In St. Petersburg

One of the top interests of visitors in St Petersburg is to hit the water and get the most out of the destination’s pristine and sandy beaches .

North Beach-Fort De Soto Park

This is easily one of the best beach choices one can make on an adventure in St Petersburg. Integrated with the park’s ecosystem, there are plenty of activities to engage in and endless possibilities of memories to create.

• There is a charge of $5 for parking which cyclists and on-foot visitors do not have to pay.

Swimming and a relaxed stroll along the beach are a perfect way to ease into the evening, especially after a day of exploring the sprawling Fort De Soto Park.

North Shore Park Beach

Located in the Historic Old Northeast, it runs from Coffee Pot Bayou to the area around Vinoy Park on Tampa Bay. The beach is linked to paths coming from the park, creating a wholesome, picturesque haven of nature.

For some waterside activities, there are playgrounds, tennis courts, benches, and a softball pitch.

St Pete Beach

While St Petersburg is home to some beautiful beaches in its own right, it is also close to other small towns and cities with meticulous beaches. First among these is St Pete Beach, located to the west of St Petersburg, and which occupies the territory of Long Key. Sandwiched between the waters of Boca Ciega Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, it offers several miles and beaches of pure goodness.

Related: 10 Small Beach Towns In Florida That Are Laid-Back & Low-Key

From water sports activities like kayaking, paddle boarding, and snorkeling to illuminated boat tours, windsurfing, and sport fishing, one cannot lack a water-based activity to indulge in. St Pete Beach is also home to the famed Pass-a-Grille Beach, which has carved a name for itself as a leading touristic attraction with its authentic Floridian charm.

Aside from the beach attractions and activities, Pass-a-Grille has amazing restaurants, bars, boutiques, and outdoor markets to afford visitors a comfortable stay.

Accommodation options are also plenty, with the famous, all-pink Don Cesar, the Beachcomber Hotel, Bay Palms Motel, Gulf Winds Resort, and the Hotel Zamora as a few options.

The city of Clearwater is also part of Pinellas County and is close to St Petersburg. There are some amazing beaches worth checking out there as well.

Egmont Key Preserve Beaches

The island has limited activity, yet it offers some of the best solo or group adventures. Largely uninhabited by humans, the island is home to preserved wildlife species such as tortoises and birds. Relics from the Spanish-American War and a 150-years old lighthouse also exist on the island.

Access to the park and its beaches is mainly through the Egmont Key Ferry from Fort De Soto’s Bay Pier. If lucky, one may spot dolphins on the cruise, even before getting to the island. Longer boat tours are also available from St. Pete Pier in downtown St Petersburg, and they include snorkeling, swimming, and exploration on the beaches of Egmont Key.

Salvador Dalí Museum

The Salvador Dali Museum showcases various timeless collections of Salvador Dalí, housed in a building of striking architectural magnificence. With a water-front garden overlooking Tampa Bay, one can spend time reflecting on the philosophies of math and nature that were inspirational to Dali.

The St Petersburg Museum Of History

The St Petersburg Museum of History showcases the history of St Petersburg and Florida through diverse documents, photos, and different kinds of artifacts. A place for research, education, and entertainment, the museum offers Segway, trolley, ghost, and walking tours to give unique experiences of the history on display.

• It may be necessary to book tours ahead of time .

It is a great way to spend an afternoon and thereafter stroll on St Pete Pier, located just within its vicinity.

The Museum Of Fine Arts

The Museum of Fine Arts is an inviting museum showcasing exemplary, diverse world art exhibits ranging from historic to contemporary paintings, sculptures, and other diverse creations. It is a popular attraction for visitors keen on art and its transformation through the years in different parts of the world.

With its sophisticated ballroom, scenic gardens, and a conservatory with a direct view of the bay, the museum can be rented for private events.

Related: A Bit Of Italy In Florida: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Venice & Things To Do There

Florida Holocaust Museum

The Florida Holocaust Museum is another fascinating attraction just outside the waterfront district.

With a theme depicting the Holocaust, the museum was the brainchild of a survivor of Nazi Germany who went on to serve the US Army in World War II. It is a place for introspection and education of the society on values of humanity.

Historic Districts

Historic Districts in the city of St Petersburg offer a kind of time-travel into the architectural standards and styles of yesteryear. From colonial revival to craftsman construction techniques, these districts are a testimony of the transformation of housing in St Petersburg. Roser Park Historic District, located in the vicinity of Booker Creek, is among the most prominent of these districts, with its 146 historic buildings.

The Old Northeast, as well as the historic Kenwood Neighborhood, also have unique architectural constructions worth checking out.

Savor St. Petersburg’s Creative And Performance Art Scene

St Petersburg is both a place of expressionism through live entertainment and performances, as well as conservation, collection, and sale of fascinating artworks. The city has a number of art galleries and theaters which promote creative talents in different ways. Some suggestions worth checking out include:

The Mahaffey Theatre

Located in the Waterfront Museum District, the Duke Energy Centre for the Arts-Mahaffey Theatre is a 2,031-seat performance theater with amazing views of Tampa Bay. It hosts some of the most sought-after events in Florida, from Broadway to classical and pop performances to comedy, the Florida Orchestra.

A few meters away from the sandy beaches and cultural museums, the theater is a place to catch some amazing entertainment while staying close to the conveniences of downtown St Petersburg. The theater also allows for private events to be held in its ballroom, atrium, or plaza.

The Palladium

The historic theater is also located in downtown St Petersburg and features two entertainment spaces where one can catch live performances. Its main stage dance, orchestra, jazz, blues, acoustic, classical, theater, and Celtic performances are held in the 815-seat Hough Hall. Its Side Door Cabaret is a listening hall of 175 seats and offers an intimate, club-like experience.

An acclaimed center of cultural and artistic diversity, the theater is available for rent by community bodies, artists, and producers. Catching an evening performance here after a day spent in nature at the Round Lake Park nearby would be a perfect ending to a day out in St Petersburg.

• Tickets to scheduled events can conveniently be bought online .

ArtsXchange At The Warehouse Arts District

Bounded within 1st Avenue N, 10th Avenue S, 16th Street, and 31st Street, the area occupied by the district is part of a neighborhood undergoing reclamation after years of decay. With the effort of several artists, warehouse space was acquired, and today, spaces are available for creators within the district.

Photography, paintwork, musical artists, graphic designers, and dancers are some of the creators hosted here, and they develop their works in their assigned studios, exhibitions, or gallery spaces.

• To learn about some of the art events to catch here, their schedule is available online .

Ocean Blue Galleries

This is a downtown St Petersburg gallery that links artists and collectors. The gallery also ships collectibles from all over the US and overseas to interested buyers. It routinely hosts artists for guest appearances and special exhibitions, with scheduled events posted on its website .

Florida Craft Art Gallery

The gallery showcases original, handmade crafts created in the form of ceramics, jewelry, sculptors, wood, glass, and fibers. It also hosts seven shows annually which feature national, regional, and local craftsmen and women. One unique service offered by the gallery is the on-foot and bike mural tours which start at the gallery and venture out to the wider Central Arts District.

In addition, on the weekend before Thanksgiving, an annual two-day Craft Art Festival is held outdoors, featuring numerous artists from around the country. During this festival, the gallery sells beautiful, unique craftworks which make for good gifts and memorabilia to carry back home at the end of a visit to St Petersburg.

• Costs for mural tours are; $19 for adults, $11 for children aged 6 to 18 years, and free for children aged 5 or less

Best Time To Visit St. Petersburg

Most visitors get the best from visiting St. Petersburg from the month of March to May. The weather is warm, and a number of outdoor activities can be enjoyed on the beaches and the cool waterfront parks throughout the city. Trees also bloom at this time, and the city looks picturesque and inviting.

Related: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Tampa & Things To Do There

The months of June to November are a little risky, as there is often a heightened probability of hurricanes. The weather also gets scorching hot, especially in July and August, with temperatures soaring upwards of 90 degrees F. There are fewer fun, public events organized, but one may still catch indoor events in the art galleries or museums throughout the city.

Best Ways To Get Around St. Petersburg

Tampa International Airport is the most used option for flights into Pinellas County. St Pete-Clearwater International Airport is another option, though it has few carriers operating from it.

After landing in Pinellas County, buses or private taxis can then be ridden into St Petersburg. Even though bus lines can be cheaper, they can be slow and take longer than taxis.

Related: 10 Florida Waterfalls That Are Worth Hiking To Their Views Year-Round

Within the city limits, cars are the most convenient means of getting around, and rentals and taxis are conveniently available. Nevertheless, some of the city’s key locations are connected by Looper Trolley, and ferries or boats may be needed to get to and from some of its islands.

Where To Eat In St. Petersburg, FL

Acropolis greek taverna - breakfast and lunch.

Downtown St Petersburg also offers the chance to sample Greek tastes at the Acropolis Greek Taverna. It is a short distance away from the Florida Holocaust Museum and Mirror Lake and could be a great stopover for lunch in the midst of a sightseeing excursion.

• Hours: Sunday to Thursday: 11:00 am to 10:00 pm, Friday and Saturday: 11:00 am to 12:00 am
• Address: 515 Central Ave, Saint Petersburg, FL 33701

The Hangar Restaurant and Flight Lounge - Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Located at the Albert Whitted Airport, the restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The cuisines here are mostly American, alongside other creative and modern recipes, including vegetarian options. It is an ideal spot to grab a burger or tacos while waiting for the entrance to the Dali Museum located close by.

With both indoor and outside seating, the spot is family-friendly. With a well-chosen seat, one can catch sight of the nearby waters as well as planes landing/taking off while dining. The Hangar Restaurant hosts live music sessions on some nights and are available for reservation for private parties.

• Hours: 8:00 am to 9:00 pm daily
• Address: Albert Whitted Airport, 2nd Floor, 540 1st St SE, St Petersburg, FL 33701

Bella Brava - Lunch and dinner

This trattoria serves delicious Italian dishes in a laid-back ambiance, a walking distance from Soreno Park, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the waters overlooking the Old Bayside and Marina. Bella Brava specializes in lunch and dinner, with a wide variety of drinks to choose from. There’s a happy hour every day till 7:00 pm.

• Hours: Sunday-Thursday: 11:30 am-10:00 pm; Friday and Saturday: 11:30 am-11:00 pm
• Address: 204 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

The Chattaway - Lunch and dinner

Is one of St Petersburg’s oldest restaurants, serving a mix of American staples, Mexican dishes, and a variety of Florida’s seafood. The Chattaway burger is a popular option that can be devoured in the garden-style outdoor seating. The restaurant routinely hosts live music and is ideal even when accompanied by children. From 12:30 pm to 4:00 pm, the restaurant serves English tea.

• Hours: Sunday to Thursday: 11:00 am – 9:30 pm; Friday to Saturday, 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
• Address: 358 22nd Ave. S, St. Petersburg, FL 33705

The restaurant only accepts cash as a mode of payment. Fortunately, there is an ATM onsite.

Where To Stay In St. Petersburg

Days inn by wyndham, st. petersburg - budget hotel.

Located within 7 miles of Tropicana Field, St Petersburg Pier, several beaches, and downtown shopping spots, this is convenient bargain accommodation. It has an outdoor pool for days when the beach is not an option and is suitable for family and group stays.

• Address: 5005 34th St N, Saint Petersburg, FL, 33714
• Amenities: free Wi-Fi, pet friendly, vehicle parking, banquet hall, hairdryer, ATM, outdoor pool

Hollander Hotel, St Petersburg - Mid-tier Hotel

The Hollander is strategically located to offer both the luxuries of the city without taking revelers too far from other fun attractions. Attractions such as the Museum of American Arts and Beach Drive, famed for its active nightlife and dining spots, are a short distance away. The accommodation is a convenient spot for those with a passion for walking to explore.

• Address: 421 4th Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701-2805
• Amenities: bar and restaurant/grill, spa, swimming pool, Wi-Fi, free parking, pet friendly, taxi service, salon, evening entertainment

The Vinoy Renaissance Resort and Golf Club - Luxury Hotel

Alongside all the necessary amenities a vacationer would hope for, the historic resort offers a first-hand view of the waters of Tampa Bay. With its location on Snell Isle, it is close to St Petersburg Yacht Club, making it convenient for some maritime exploration. The adjacent Vinnoy Park extends nature’s beauty. Moreover, Paul’s Landing serves a number of international and seafood delicacies onsite, making it a much sought-after eatery by outside patrons and the resort’s guests.

There is also an onsite grill, a snack bar, and a restaurant selling seafood for refreshment after an afternoon of golfing at the expansive course. There is also a private marina nearby to enable water-borne cruises.

• Address: 501 5th Ave NE, Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
• Amenities: Spa, golf course, fitness center, tennis, parking with electric car charging station

Uptown Hotel - Luxury Hotel

With proximity to Round Lake Park, the hotel is located in Uptown St Petersburg, in proximity to numerous city amenities and tourist attractions. From this boutique accommodation, one may choose to sample the magnificence of the architecture on display at the historic district, enjoy the exhibits at the nearby museums and later opt for some quality time on St Pete Pier.

• Address: 465 7th Ave N, Saint Petersburg, Florida 33701
• Amenities: Onsite restaurant, parking (may be limited), tea/coffee maker, in-room fridge

There are a number of magnificent and comfy hotels and beach resorts located in cities bordering St Petersburg, such as Clearwater, Gulfport, St. Pete Beach, and Pinellas Park. For a more memorable, wholesome experience of Pinellas County, visitors may slot them in their travel plans and get to enjoy the attractions in these other cities too.

The Don Cesar Hotel, the Plaza Beach Hotel, and Miramar Resort in St. Pete Beach are great accommodation options to the west of St Petersburg, with sweeping views of the Gulf of Mexico.

Tips For Visiting St. Petersburg, Florida

For people wanting to visit St. Petersburg, Florida, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, where someone stays in the city can affect how much time they'll spend in the car. Therefore, it's recommended to book a hotel in the downtown area, where walking to attractions, restaurants, and shopping will be easier.

In addition, it might also be worth it to invest in a GO card for those wanting to ride the bus in St. Pete. With a GO card, tourists can reload it, tap it once they are on a city bus, and monitor how much they are reloading the card throughout their vacation. What's nice about St. Pete is that the city heavily invests in its bus network, giving visitors a nice, affordable way to get around.

The next tip for visiting St. Pete is to make sure and come during less hot times. As mentioned, the city can become swampy during the summer months, making outdoor activities challenging. The last thing anyone wants to do is be soaked with sweat their entire vacation, so spring and winter are the two best times to be here.

2024 Champions League final: All you need to know

Tuesday, May 7, 2024

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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.

Who is playing in the Champions League final?

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

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.

Wembley Stadium also 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.

How to watch the Champions League final

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

Is there extra time and penalties in the Champions League final?

Yes. 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.

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 2023/24 UEFA Champions League winners will also automatically qualify for next season's league phase if they do not earn a place via their domestic league position.

Champions League winner rebalancing

What happens if the UEFA Champions League winners have also qualified for the league phase via their domestic league position?

Lastly, the European champions also earn the right to play against the winners of the 2023/24 UEFA Europa League in the 2024 UEFA Super Cup in Warsaw, Poland .

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

Where is the 2025 Champions League final?