View It
Visit It
St. Petersburg
Russia
Visit St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg, Russia, often referred to as the cultural capital of the country, offers an enchanting experience for travelers seeking a blend of historical grandeur and artistic expression. Founded by Tsar Peter the Great in 1703, this city has been at the forefront of Russian history, witnessing the rise and fall of empires, revolutions, and the enduring legacy of the Russian aristocracy. The city's layout, with its intricate web of canals interlaced with baroque bridges, draws comparisons to Venice, while the majestic Neva River adds to its picturesque charm.
A visit to St. Petersburg would be incomplete without exploring its vast array of cultural institutions. The Hermitage Museum, housed in the opulent Winter Palace, is a treasure trove of art and artifacts. With over three million items in its collection, including masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt, and Michelangelo, it offers an unparalleled glimpse into the artistic achievements of humanity. Equally impressive are the Russian Museum, which showcases a comprehensive collection of Russian fine art, and the Mariinsky Theatre, known for its world-class opera and ballet performances.
St. Petersburg is also famous for its architectural marvels. The city skyline is dominated by the colorful onion domes of the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, which stands as a memorial to Tsar Alexander II. The church's intricate mosaics and its dramatic location along the Griboedov Canal make it a visual spectacle. Another iconic structure is the Peter and Paul Fortress, the original citadel of St. Petersburg, whose spire reaches skyward from the Zayachy Island along the Neva River. The fortress houses the Peter and Paul Cathedral, the burial place of Russian tsars, including Peter the Great and Catherine the Great.
Throughout the year, St. Petersburg transforms with the seasons, each offering a unique charm. The famous "White Nights" of summer, when the sun barely sets and the city is alive with festivals and nightlife, contrast sharply with the snowy, quiet winters that blanket the city's historic buildings and streets in sparkling white. Whether it's the lush greenery of the Summer Garden in full bloom or the frozen rivers and canals that turn into impromptu ice rinks, St. Petersburg captivates with its timeless beauty and vibrant cultural scene.
St. Petersburg Monthly Weather Conditions
LOW
TEMP
HIGH
TEMP
DAYS OF PRECIP.
January
21°F
30°F
18
February
21°F
30°F
11
March
24°F
37°F
13
April
34°F
50°F
13
May
45°F
60°F
14
June
53°F
68°F
11
July
57°F
72°F
11
August
57°F
68°F
14
September
46°F
60°F
12
October
37°F
50°F
12
November
30°F
37°F
13
December
23°F
32°F
18
Need to Know Before You Go To St. Petersburg
Nickname:
Venice of the North
Primary Language:
Russian
Time Zone:
Europe/Moscow
Current Time:
Electric Plug Type:
Type C, Type F
Annual Visitors:
10 million
Primary Export:
Refined petroleum
Busiest Travel Months:
June, July, August
Quietest Travel Months:
January, February, November
Find your Next Adventure in St. Petersburg
Explore St. Petersburg
Iconic Landmarks
Hermitage Museum - One of the largest and oldest museums in the world, the Hermitage Museum is housed in the Winter Palace and several other magnificent buildings. It boasts an extensive collection of art, including works by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Rembrandt, as well as an impressive array of Russian art.
1.
Peter and Paul Fortress - Founded by Peter the Great in 1703, this fortress is considered the birthplace of St. Petersburg. It includes the Peter and Paul Cathedral, which houses the tombs of almost all the Russian emperors and empresses from Peter the Great onward.
St. Isaac's Cathedral - One of the largest cathedral domes in the world, St. Isaac's Cathedral is an architectural marvel. Visitors can climb to the colonnade around the dome to enjoy panoramic views of the city.
The Mariinsky Theatre - Opened in 1860, the Mariinsky Theatre is a historic venue for opera and ballet. It has been a cornerstone of Russian cultural life and continues to host performances by some of the world's leading opera and ballet companies.
Nevsky Prospect - This is the main street in St. Petersburg and runs through the heart of the city. Lined with historic buildings, shops, cafes, and churches, it is a bustling avenue that offers a slice of city life and culture. Landmarks along Nevsky Prospect include the Kazan Cathedral and the famous bookstore, Dom Knigi.
These landmarks are integral to the cultural and historical fabric of St. Petersburg and are must-visit sites for anyone traveling to this beautiful city.
Cultural Experiences
Hermitage Museum - One of the largest and oldest museums in the world, the Hermitage is a must-visit for anyone interested in art and history. Its collections encompass over three million items, including major works by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Rembrandt, as well as extensive collections of Russian art.
Mariinsky Theatre - Attending a ballet or opera performance at the Mariinsky Theatre is a quintessential St. Petersburg experience. This historic theater has been a cultural hub since the 19th century and continues to showcase some of the best classical ballet and opera in the world.
Peterhof Palace - Often referred to as the "Russian Versailles," Peterhof is renowned for its beautiful gardens, impressive fountains, and elaborate palaces. The Grand Cascade and Samson Fountain are particularly spectacular.
The church is renowned for its magnificent onion domes and detailed mosaics.
Russian Museum - The State Russian Museum is the world’s largest museum of Russian art. It is housed in the Mikhailovsky Palace and other historic buildings in the city center. The museum's collection includes Russian icons, paintings, and sculptures from various periods.
St. Isaac's Cathedral - Climb up to the colonnade of St. Isaac's Cathedral for a panoramic view of the city. The cathedral itself is an architectural marvel, with a lavishly decorated interior that includes malachite and lapis lazuli columns, and a remarkable dome that dominates the city's skyline.
These experiences offer a deep dive into the rich tapestry of St. Petersburg's cultural, historical, and artistic legacy.
Outdoor Adventures
Boat Tours along the Canals and Rivers - St. Petersburg is often referred to as the "Venice of the North" because of its intricate and extensive network of waterways. Taking a boat tour is a fantastic way to see the city from a different perspective. You can explore the Neva River, the Fontanka, the Moika River, and the canals that wind through the city, passing by historic buildings and under beautiful bridges.
Walking Tours of the Historic Center - Although not as wild as other adventures, walking through the historic center of St. Petersburg can feel like an outdoor adventure in itself, given the city's stunning architecture and vibrant street life. Visit Palace Square, the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, and stroll along Nevsky Prospekt.
Cycling in Krestovsky Island - Krestovsky Island offers a more relaxed and green environment. You can rent a bike and explore the extensive trails in the park. It’s a great place for a leisurely ride with views of the Gulf of Finland and the Neva River.
Hiking and Exploring the Parks - The city is home to several large parks such as the famous Peterhof Park with its spectacular fountains and gardens, Pavlovsk Park, and Catherine Park in Tsarskoye Selo (Pushkin). These parks offer extensive walking trails and are rich in history and natural beauty.
Kayaking in the Gulf of Finland - For a more adventurous outdoor activity, consider kayaking in the Gulf of Finland. This can be an exhilarating way to see the coastal landscapes around St. Petersburg and enjoy the marine environment.
Visiting the Summer Gardens and the Mikhailovsky Garden - These historic gardens offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. The Summer Garden is one of the oldest in St. Petersburg, featuring marble statues, cast iron railing, and a unique collection of sculptures. Mikhailovsky Garden offers a mix of styles with both French formal and English landscape gardens.
Each of these activities provides a unique way to experience the natural and architectural beauty of St. Petersburg while enjoying the outdoors. Whether you're paddling, cycling, or simply strolling, there's plenty to explore in this majestic city.
Off the Beaten Path
New Holland Island - This historical artificial island, created in the 18th century, has been transformed into a cultural hub. It's a great place to escape the more crowded tourist spots. The island hosts art exhibitions, concerts, and a variety of food markets. In the winter, there's an ice rink, making it a year-round destination.
The Museum of Soviet Arcade Machines - Step back in time to the Soviet era with a visit to this unique museum. It houses a collection of working arcade machines from the 1970s and 1980s. Visitors can play games like "Morskoi Boi" (Sea Battle) and "Sniper-2" using old Soviet kopek coins.
Kronstadt - This naval town located on Kotlin Island in the Gulf of Finland is steeped in maritime history and less frequented by tourists. Explore the Naval Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, a stunning example of neo-Byzantine architecture, and enjoy the quiet, picturesque streets of the town.
Alexander Park - Located in the suburb of Pushkin (Tsarskoye Selo), this park is often overshadowed by the famous Catherine Palace. However, Alexander Park offers peaceful walks through beautifully landscaped gardens and past quaint pavilions and bridges, providing a tranquil escape from the city.
Erarta Museum of Contemporary Art - For a modern twist on St. Petersburg's art scene, visit the Erarta Museum, the largest private museum of contemporary art in Russia. It showcases an impressive collection of modern Russian art, and the museum's creative exhibitions and installations offer a fresh perspective on the country's artistic talents.
Dostoevsky's St. Petersburg - Explore the neighborhoods and landmarks that inspired the settings of Fyodor Dostoevsky's novels. Walking tours can take you through the areas where the author lived and wrote some of his most famous works, including "Crime and Punishment." This is a fascinating way to see the city through the eyes of one of its most famous residents.
These experiences will give you a deeper and more varied understanding of St. Petersburg, beyond the usual tourist attractions.
St. Petersburg Fun Facts
St. Petersburg, Russia, is a city rich in history and culture. Here are ten fun facts about this fascinating city:
- Founded by Tsar Peter the Great: St. Petersburg was founded by Russian leader Peter the Great on May 27, 1703. He named it after his patron saint, the apostle Saint Peter. The city was intended to be a window to the West and a way to modernize Russia by having a seaport capable of trading with other European nations.
- City of Bridges: St. Petersburg is often referred to as the "Venice of the North" because of its many waterways and over 800 bridges. The city's intricate network of canals and the Neva River have earned it this romantic nickname, making it a picturesque destination.
- The Hermitage Museum: One of the largest and oldest museums in the world, the Hermitage was founded in 1764 by Catherine the Great and has been open to the public since 1852. Its collections comprise over three million items, including the largest collection of paintings in the world.
- White Nights: Due to its northern geographic location, St. Petersburg experiences the natural phenomenon of the "White Nights," where twilight lasts all night from late May to early July. This period is celebrated with numerous cultural events, including the famous Scarlet Sails celebration, a massive public gathering with fireworks and a ship with scarlet sails sailing down the Neva River.
- The Mariinsky Theatre: Opened in 1860, the Mariinsky Theatre is a historic theater of opera and ballet in St. Petersburg and has been the home of many of Russia's most famous performers and performances, including works by Tchaikovsky and Rimsky-Korsakov.
- Peterhof Palace: Often referred to as the "Russian Versailles," Peterhof Palace is famous for its array of fountains powered by natural springs and gravity. It was designed by Peter the Great and is a testament to the lavish lifestyle of Russia's imperial rulers.
- The Siege of Leningrad: During World War II, the city, then known as Leningrad, was besieged by Nazi Germany from September 1941 to January 1944. Despite severe starvation and harsh winters, the city did not fall. The resilience of the city's defenders is commemorated in various monuments and museums across the city.
- Literary Greats: St. Petersburg is the setting for many famous Russian literary works. Fyodor Dostoevsky’s "Crime and Punishment" and many of Alexander Pushkin’s poems and stories take place in this historic city. It's a place of pilgrimage for literature enthusiasts.
- The Bronze Horseman: An iconic symbol of the city, the Bronze Horseman is an equestrian statue of Peter the Great commissioned by Catherine the Great. It was created by French sculptor Étienne Maurice Falconet and unveiled in 1782. The statue is mentioned in Alexander Pushkin's famous poem, "The Bronze Horseman."
- Subway Depth: The Saint Petersburg Metro is one of the deepest subway systems in the world. The city's geology required that the metro be built deep underground, with the Admiralteyskaya station being one of the deepest in the world at about 86 meters below ground.
Featured Picture Gallery
Palace Square is Known as St. Petersburg's Main Square
Explore the Local Architecture Along the Neva River
Visit Peterhof Palace to See the Beautiful Golden Statues
Explore the Great Architecture of St. Petersburg
Explore Similar Locations
Amsterdam
Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is renowned for its artistic heritage, elaborate canal system, and narrow houses with gabled facades, legacies of the city’s 17th-century Golden Age. Its Museum District houses the Van Gogh Museum, works by Rembrandt and Vermeer at the Rijksmuseum, and modern art at the Stedelijk. Cycling is key to the city's character, and there are numerous bike paths.
Dublin
Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is renowned for its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and warm hospitality. Visitors can explore ancient landmarks like Dublin Castle and St. Patrick's Cathedral, or enjoy contemporary attractions such as the Guinness Storehouse and the bustling Temple Bar district. With its blend of historical treasures and dynamic nightlife, Dublin offers a captivating experience for all travelers.
Budapest
Budapest, the captivating capital of Hungary, is renowned for its stunning architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and thermal baths. Straddling the Danube River, the city is divided into Buda, with its picturesque Castle Hill and historic sites, and Pest, where nightlife thrives alongside cafes and museums. Visitors can explore the grandeur of the Hungarian Parliament Building, soak in the famed Széchenyi Thermal Bath, and stroll along the scenic riverbank for a truly enchanting experience.
Stockholm
Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, is a stunning city spread across 14 islands, where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic Sea. Known for its picturesque cobblestone streets and ochre-colored buildings of Gamla Stan (the old town), the city seamlessly blends historic charm with modern Scandinavian design. Visitors can explore world-class museums, such as the Vasa Museum and the open-air Skansen, enjoy vibrant shopping and dining scenes, and take in the natural beauty of its abundant parks and waterways.