Introduction
Saint Petersburg, Russia, is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It has historical sites, majestic architecture, and fantastic cultural attractions. So whether you are looking for a fun day out or a memorable experience, there is something for everyone in Saint Petersburg!
This article will examine all the best things to do in Saint Petersburg. Read on to learn more!
History of the City
Saint Petersburg, located in Northwestern Russia on the Baltic Sea coast, was founded by Tsar Peter the Great in 1703. Named after Saint Peter, it was intended to be a “window to Europe” and a gateway to foreign trade and culture. Instead, the city quickly grew and developed into a grand port city, becoming the imperial capital of Russia and home to the tsars.
Over the years, St Petersburg has been recognized as one of the world’s cultural centers thanks to its impressive architecture, art galleries, museums, theatres, and literature. It has earned many aliases, such as “The Venice of the North” due to its many canals running through the city or “The Paris of Russia” for its grand boulevards. There are plenty of attractions for all ages within this stunning historic city.
Sightseeing
Saint Petersburg, Russia, is a beautiful city full of majestic architecture, vibrant culture, and rich history. One of the best ways to explore the city is by sightseeing, as there are a lot of famous sights and hidden gems to discover. From the iconic Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood and St. Isaac’s Cathedral to the Kunstkamera, the City Sculpture Museum, and the Faberge Museum, there are plenty of memorable things to do in Saint Petersburg.
Let’s take a look at some of the top sights and activities to do while in the city:
Saint Isaac’s Cathedral
Saint Isaac’s Cathedral is a majestic architectural wonder in Saint Petersburg, Russia, built between 1818 and 1858 and is a significant city landmark. The cathedral is 101.5 meters tall and has a neo-classical design with opulent columns, mosaics, paintings, and gildings. The interior features several exciting features, and the cathedral Baldacchino dome provides visitors with stunning views of the city from its balcony.
The church was designed by famous French-born architect Auguste Montferrand as a dedication to Saint Isaac of Dalmatia, who St. Petersburg was believed to be named after; his remains were brought there from Constantinople when Russian forces conquered it in the late 19th century. A work of art in itself, the construction of St Isaac’s Cathedral took some forty years and involved more than one thousand workers! The church consists of three distinct parts – the lower base built from solid granite; the Greek cross-shaped main body built from red brick and decorated with coral facades; and finally, an enormous bronze dome covered in 24 kilograms (52 lbs) of gold leaf.
Saint Isaac’s Cathedral is open daily for visitors to wander through its impressive hallways and admire its breathtaking views over St Petersburg and surrounding monuments such as The Hermitage, Aleksandrovsky Garden, and Mariinsky Theatre. These other iconic landmarks make up this beautiful cityscape. In addition to standard sightseeing opportunities, visitors can take guided tours that touch upon different aspects of its history, including architecture, artwork, and periods of siege throughout Russia’s long history. It is an around captivating site that offers several unique experiences, making it one of the top tourist attractions in Saint Petersburg. It should not be missed by anyone planning on visiting this gorgeous destination!
The Hermitage
The Hermitage is one of the world’s most excellent and famous art museums, and it should be on your list of things to see in Saint Petersburg, Russia. Located within the historic Winter Palace, the museum was founded by Catherine the Great in 1764 and now contains more than 3 million pieces of artwork from around the globe.
From ancient Greek statues to original works from some of Europe’s greatest masters, such as Rembrandt, Picasso, and Monet, you could spend days exploring the collection. The impressive gallery spans five buildings, including former court residences, a library, and theater wings. Highlights include Raphael’s cartoons, Van Gogh’s “The Night Café,” and Michelangelo’s “Mourners.”
Even if you’re not into fine art, you won’t miss seeing this incredible palace building – an impressive architectural sight in its own right – so be sure to add it to your itinerary!
Peter and Paul Fortress
Peter and Paul Fortress are one of Saint Petersburg’s most iconic landmarks. It was built in 1703 by Tsar Peter the Great, who decreed that a fortress should be constructed to protect the potential port city from possible hostilities. The orthodox St. Peter and Paul Cathedral sits at its center and acts as a symbol of imperial power and strength; it is here that Russian emperors have been interred over centuries.
The site was a central defensive point during World War II when troops were based there to guard against Nazi attacks. Nowadays, visitors can explore the walls, walk around picturesque Kunstkammer Park or take time out to relax in one of many cafes scattered throughout the area.
Among its many attractions, you won’t miss visiting the Commandant’s House, which offers historical exhibits; or boating around nearby Asanov’s Canal for an out-of-the-ordinary outdoor adventure. The Peter and Paul Fortress is a must-see for any traveler passing through Saint Petersburg – one that will surely leave you with an unforgettable experience!
Culture
Saint Petersburg, the second largest city in Russia, is rich in culture and history. The city offers plenty, from impressive cathedrals and monuments to vibrant nightlife and music venues. So if you’re looking for an experience that encompasses Russia’s culture, Saint Petersburg is an excellent place to do it.
Let’s take a look at some of the city’s culture-centric activities and attractions:
Mariinsky Theatre
The Mariinsky Theatre is an iconic cultural institution in Saint Petersburg, Russia. It was founded in 1783 by the decree of Empress Catherine II and is named after Empress Maria Alexeevna. The theatre is renowned for its prestigious history, elaborate costumes and sets, and high-quality performances of classical masterpieces.
Mariinsky performances span a range of styles and genres, including operas, ballets, and symphonic music. At the heart of its extensive repertoire are some of the greatest works ever written for the stage – from 19th-century Russian classics to 20th-century masterworks by Igor Stravinsky to contemporary works by contemporary Russian composers. World-renowned stars such as Mikhail Baryshnikov have graced its stage over the decades, and ballet stars such as Ulyana Lopatkina still perform today.
The Mariinsky Theatre symbolizes Russian culture, showcasing traditional performing arts and modern trends, allowing audiences to enjoy a unique experience with each performance. From classical music classics to experimental works from living composers – this premier theatre has become one of Russia’s most excellent cultural centers, providing locals and visitors with unforgettable memories.
Russian Museum
The Russian Museum is the world’s most extensive collection of Russian fine art and one of Saint Petersburg, Russia’s best things to do. Founded in 1895 and built in 1898, the museum holds over 400,000 works from Russia’s top artists of all eras. Highlights include French Impressionism; Primitivism; Constructivism; and precious icons from around the country.
The museum is arranged chronologically. On display are works by such renowned painters as Ilya Repin (famous for his iconic painting “Ivan the Terrible Killing His Son”); landscape painter Arkhip Kuindzhi; Russian realist painter Vasily Tropinin; symbolism artist Mikhail Vrubel; and avant-garde painter Kazimir Malevich (creator of Suprematism). Pre-revolution works depict a life of luxury and aristocracy, while post-revolution pieces highlight a more austere scene under communism.
This impressive collection offers an in-depth look into Russian art history over several centuries and is a must-see attraction for art history enthusiasts and casual appreciators alike.
Mariinsky Palace
The Mariinsky Palace is a historical landmark in the heart of Saint Petersburg and has been a source of awe and inspiration for centuries. Located in the legendary Palace Square and just a short walk from some of the city’s best attractions, it is one of St. Petersburg’s prime visitor attractions and highlights.
Built between 1760 and 1785 by Russian imperial court architect Antonio Rinaldi as part of an overall plan to redesign the historic city center, this magnificent rococo-style palace was once home to the Royal Family’s private residence. While much of it was destroyed by fire during WWII, the stunning Baroque façade still has its grandeur intact.
Visitors can explore inside to see original interior designs, painted ceilings, murals, and preserved art objects, including tapestries, porcelain statues, carvings, and furniture belonging to Russia’s royal family over two centuries ago. There are also grand halls, including:
- Grand Hall with its beautiful Crystal Staircase made by Bartolomeo Rastrelli;
- Great Cinema Hall decorated by Russian artists Alexander Sokolov and Kirill Gorbunov;
- Golden Hall, where operas were once performed;
- Small Golden Church or Chapel adorned with unique frescoes painted by renowned Italian artist Giovanni Grinup – restored to their original glory so visitors can admire their beauty firsthand!
Shopping
Saint Petersburg is a great destination for shoppers. From the iconic Gostiny Dvor to the city’s unique and folk-inspired souvenir shops, there are plenty of options for those looking for a great shopping experience in St. Petersburg.
In this section, we’ll explore the top shopping destinations in the city, from the bustling Nevsky Prospekt to the chic boutiques on Vasilievsky Island:
Nevsky Prospect
Nevsky Prospect is the main thoroughfare and one of the most recognized avenues in Saint Petersburg, Russia. It stretches from the Admiralty Building downtown to the Moscow Railway Station and is named after Alexander Nevsky, a prominent Russian saint. This bustling street has everything a traveler could want: world-renowned monuments to visit, shops to explore, and plenty of cafes and restaurants to relax in.
The 600-meter-long thoroughfare is teeming with life, commerce, and entertainment. With an array of iconic establishments along its stretch, such as the Kazan Cathedral, Gostiny Dvor (St.-Petersburg’s oldest shopping mall), Anichkov Bridge, Alexandrinsky Theater or Passage gallery, it’s no wonder Nevsky Prospect has become an epicenter for tourists and locals alike.
If you are looking for souvenirs or Russian classics such as nesting dolls or amber jewelry, you can find them at boutique stores like Pavlovsk Passage or Knizhnaya Lavka (Bookshop). You can extend your wardrobe with renowned designer stores like Chanel at Passage Degrevnevaya or Galeria Lesnaya. Alongside these upmarket retailers, beautiful local craftsmen create incredible handiwork items, such as lacquer boxes, that make perfect gifts at home and abroad.
Finally, suppose all this shopping leaves you hungry. In that case, delicacies range from sweet buns at Ladya cafe to ethnic restaurants offering Italian and Korean cuisine with traditional Gzhel dinner sets served by friendly staff at places like the Sennoy Market canteen.
Gostiny Dvor
Gostiny Dvor is the most famous shopping center in Saint Petersburg, Russia. It is located in the middle of the city on Nevsky Prospekt and provides visitors with exciting shopping experiences. For centuries, Gostiny Dvor was the heart of Saint Petersburg’s social life, featuring fashion stores, jewelry boutiques, and souvenir shops; this tradition continues today.
The main building has five floors and is home to numerous large retail stores selling designer clothing, shoes, and accessories. On the third floor, there are outlets where customers can buy discounted items from prestigious brands like Prada, Gucci, and Versace. Smaller boutiques provide unique gifts at affordable prices, such as vintage jewelry or other handmade items. There are also cafes on every level offering gourmet coffee and light snacks for weary shoppers.
The beautiful architecture surrounding Gostiny Dvor makes it a popular destination for sightseers and bargain hunters. Throughout the year, exhibitions occur inside the mall, allowing visitors to discover new artworks from local artists or try delicacies from Moscow-based restaurants. Gostiny Dvor is open seven days a week. Every day, concerts are inside the shopping arcade, providing an additional attraction for those visiting this incredible Russian landmark.
Dumskaya Street
Dumskaya Street in Saint Petersburg, Russia, is a great place to shop for souvenirs and other items. Located near the city center, Dumskaya Street is one of the oldest streets in St. Petersburg and has a long history that spans centuries.
The street is filled with shops and stores selling anything from antique furniture to souvenirs, books, crafts, clothing, and more. The street bustles with people during the day as they explore the charming shops lined up along the cobblestone road. There are also plenty of cafes to enjoy Russian cuisine while people-watching along the street.
Dumskaya Street is famous for its historic buildings and monuments representing different periods of Russian history. You could find a statue or monument that dates back to pre-1917 days when St Pete was called by its previous name Petropavlovsk-on-the Neva. Check out the 18th-century Zubov Towers as you walk through Dumskaya Street!
Food
Saint Petersburg is full of culinary treats that you have to try while you are there. From cozy restaurants to food markets, there are plenty of options to explore. One of the best things about Saint Petersburg is that there’s a variety of food to enjoy. You can find dishes inspired by Russian, Georgian, and European culinary traditions.
Let’s take a look at some of the food you can enjoy in St. Petersburg:
Stolle Pie Shop
Stolle Pie Shop is a must if you are in the downtown area of St. Petersburg, Russia. This Russian bakery-cafe serves up delicious pies ranging from traditional to modern fillings. From sweet pies with currant or raspberry filling to savory dishes like potato, herring, and steak & mushroom, Stolle Pie Shop has something for everyone!
Stolle has been baking pies since 1993, and its products are handmade using freshly sourced local ingredients. In addition to its famous pies, the cafe also offers fresh pastries and cakes, salads, soups, and other hot meals, as well as a selection of coffees and teas. The traditional interiors provide a cozy atmosphere to enjoy your meal or grab something to-go — either way, you won’t be disappointed!
Eliseevsky Food Hall
Eliseevsky Food Hall is a historic food emporium located in the heart of the city center of Saint Petersburg, Russia. Founded in 1902, the hall has been lovingly restored and updated to give guests a unique shopping experience combining modern convenience and traditional Russian hospitality.
Eliseevsky Food Hall offers an amazing variety of goods and services, from essential grocery items like bread, milk, tea, and coffee to specialty items such as caviar, candies and chocolates, regional specialties like pickles and preserves, and all kinds of Russian favorites like borscht and pelmeni. These are just a few; Eliseevsky Food Hall truly has something for everyone.
Visitors can also find handmade regional specialties such as bags and wallets made with Latvian linen or traditional samovars from the Ural Mountains. If one so chooses, there is also a selection of fresh fish from the Baltic Sea or Volga River! The hall also boasts an impressive selection of Teas directly imported from Germany, China, and Japan, and its bakery stocks goodies like cakes, tarts, pies, and cookies.
A café offers snacks like smoked salmon sandwiches or beef stroganoff with juicy beef cheeks cut by hand. Among other things, you can find real Kumite art on display here- depicting scenes of Moscow life attributed to Russian Impressionism almost 50 years ago under the Peredvizhniki Group led by Ilya Repin. It makes Eliseevsky Food Hall an enchanting place worth visiting in Saint Petersburg!
Cat Cafe
Cat cafes are a unique experience, perfect for animal lovers seeking their fill while in Saint Petersburg. The Cat Cafe is an animal-friendly cafe where cozy, purry, and friendly cats can play and relax.
The Cat Cafe is not just home to cats; it also offers tasty drinks and delicious treats. So grab a cup of coffee or tea and something sweet to snack on while you enjoy the company of furry felines napping around your feet or perched atop tables close enough to reach out and scratch their heads.
The Cat Cafe provides everything necessary for the cats, such as scratching posts, plenty of comfortable places to sleep, and playthings such as ribbons and catnip toys. There’s also plenty of helpful staff around that can provide information about the cats staying at the cafe. It’s a great place to escape from the hustle and bustle of St Petersburg streets, so if you want somewhere unique to go in this city, then The Cat Cafe fits the bill!
Nightlife
There is something for everyone when it comes to experiencing the nightlife in Saint Petersburg, Russia. Saint Petersburg comes alive at night, from charming jazz clubs to neon-lit nightclubs.
In this article, we will explore the different nightlife options available for everyone to enjoy in Saint Petersburg:
Teatralnaya Square
Located near the Mariinskiy theater in historical Saint Petersburg, Teatralnaya Square is the heart of activity both day and night. During the day, this lively corner of Saint Petersburg is famous for its upscale boutiques and is home to world-renowned restaurants. However, this beautiful square transforms into a vibrant nightlife destination for locals and tourists at night.
Teatralnaya Square is home to some of the city’s most renowned nightclubs and bars, offering everything from old-school Russian hits to trending Top 40 remixes. In addition, live musical acts are always performed at one of the many venues around the square, ensuring you’ll never run out of breakfast options. So whether you want to dance all night or meet up with friends in one of its cozy lounges, Teatralnaya Square will provide a charming atmosphere both within and outside its venues.
In addition to dancing and dining late into the evening, visitors should consider taking a horse-drawn carriage ride or touring local sightseeing options at Teatralnaya Square. The nearby theatre provides a stunning view overlooking many canals throughout Saint Petersburg’s heartland – perfect for a romantic date or special outing! But, no matter what brings you to Teatralnaya Square by night or day – rest assured that you’ll find something truly amazing!
Petersburg Beer HouseIf you’re looking for a night out with friends in Saint Petersburg, then one of the best spots to hit is the St. Petersburg Beer House. This popular eatery and bar serve a wide range of craft beers from artisans worldwide, with unique Russian flavors thrown into the mix. They have something for everyone, from light and fruity ales to robust and dark stouts.
The menu contains delicious bar snacks to enjoy with your brews; sample some traditional Russian dishes such as herring with shallot sauce or a gourmet burger made of Wagyu beef. There’s also live music on Friday and Saturday nights, making it an excellent spot for celebrations and special occasions! Also, their unique energy drink shots are always on tap when you need the energy to keep dancing all night long! So grab a beer and get ready to party at St. Petersburg Beer House!
The Hat Bar
The Hat Bar is located in the historic district of Saint Petersburg and is an ideal destination for nightlife. This lively pub offers a well-stocked bar with craft beers, house-made cocktails, and an extensive wine list featuring local and international labels. If you’re in the mood for something non-alcoholic, try one of their craft sodas or seasonal chais.
The Hat Bar prides itself on its friendly atmosphere and wide selection of comfortable seating. It’s also known for its live entertainment every Friday night, featuring DJs spinning various tunes and cover bands playing alternative rock favorites. So if you’re looking for a special night out in Saint Petersburg, stop by The Hat Bar – it’s guaranteed a great time!