Generated with sparks and insights from 13 sources

Summary

St. Petersburg, with its rich tapestry of history, culture, and architecture, offers an array of world-class attractions. From the art treasures of the Hermitage to the grandeur of Peterhof and the vibrant streets of Nevsky Prospekt, the city is a treasure trove for explorers. Whether it's enjoying a performance at the Mariinsky Theatre, marveling at the architectural beauty from the rivers and canals, or stepping into the opulent past at Tsarskoye Selo, St. Petersburg promises unforgettable experiences.

The Hermitage (The Winter Palace)

One of the world's greatest treasuries of art and antiquities.

Tips

Consider visiting the General Staff Building for the impressionist and post-impressionist art collection. Plan for a full day or at least two hours for a brief visit.

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "The State Hermitage Museum", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m53NP_ydpmY", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Aug 18, 2017", "length": "" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Virtual Tour of Hermitage Museum with Anna - brought to you ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WTj_oyB2bRk", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Sep 13, 2023", "length": "" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Tour Inside of The HERMITAGE Museum of Winter Palace in ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=raSFjiXOQFE", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Jan 9, 2024", "length": "" }</div>

Mariinsky Theatre

A world-class venue for ballet, opera, and orchestral music.

Tips

Explore both the historic theatre and the new stages. Optimal to enjoy as many performances as budget allows, with at least one evening performance.

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "A NIGHT AT THE RUSSIAN BALLET | Mariinsky Theatre, St ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bqLTRwH4lo0", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Jan 18, 2020", "length": "" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Mariinsky Theatre, St. Petersburg", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gbj0-FBmcyw", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Mar 23, 2018", "length": "" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Inside St. Petersburg's World-Famous Mariinsky Theatre (2003)", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zuk4zqsyn7E", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Jul 18, 2019", "length": "" }</div>

Rivers and Canals by Boat

A fantastic way to see St. Petersburg from a different angle.

Tips

Available May to October. Options range from guided tours to renting a boat. Don't miss the midnight opening of the Neva's bridges.

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": ""Back To Old Petersburg" Boat Cruise. St Petersburg, Russia", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7RzD0lQRozY", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Jun 5, 2019", "length": "" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Volga River Cruise, Moscow - St. Petersburg \u2502 Part 1", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BOBfPPsxJIE", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "May 14, 2018", "length": "" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "BOAT TRIP around ST PETERSBURG Islands through Neva ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sxZreK7jv5A", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "2 weeks ago", "length": "" }</div>

Peterhof

Famous for its incredible collection of fountains and grand palaces.

Tips

Best visited in summer. Plan for a whole day or at least half a day for a brief overview.

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "PETERHOF PALACE - SAINT PETERSBURG, RUSSIA [ HD ]", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7owv6KbhTr4", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Jan 19, 2020", "length": "" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "PETERHOF PALACE - TSAR'S RESIDENCE /// ST ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ddNeDzRoYoY", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Jun 21, 2020", "length": "" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "The Opening of Fountains in PETERHOF, St Petersburg ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dKY-T_Ev4xc", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Apr 22, 2023", "length": "" }</div>

St. Isaac's Cathedral

The city's largest and most spectacular religious building.

Tips

Tour of the cathedral and colonnade should take around two hours. Consider an audio guide.

Peter and Paul Fortress

A historic fortress and burial place for Romanov Emperors.

Tips

Spend a full day or at least an hour for a quick visit. Explore the cathedral and museums.

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Peter and Paul Fortress, Saint Petersburg. "Real Russia"", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vub-MF2sCk0", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Aug 27, 2018", "length": "" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "PETER and PAUL FORTRESS in St. Petersburg (Cannon ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tRx9Qf6WVPU", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Apr 25, 2023", "length": "" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Peter and Paul Fortress, the first building to be constructed in ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pCNM7iZ6v4c", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Jun 27, 2022", "length": "" }</div>

Church on Spilled Blood

A landmark with colorful Russian Revival architecture.

Tips

Visit inside if time allows, especially with an audio guide for the full story.

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Inside of The Church of The Savior on Spilled Blood in St ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FgosgnksHoU", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Nov 28, 2023", "length": "" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sT2vFxgM9kY", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Aug 22, 2022", "length": "" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Church of the Spilled Blood", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S-B-KsNdFdo", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "2 days ago", "length": "" }</div>

Tsarskoye Selo (Pushkin)

Home to the rococo Catherine Palace and the Amber Room.

Tips

Best enjoyed over a full day. Consider combining with Pavlovsk and dining at Podvorye.

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "TSARSKOYE SELO. CATHERINE PALACE /// ST ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fz0Y4eiOXSQ", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Jun 30, 2020", "length": "" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Visiting Catherine Palace | Tsarskoye Selo!", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aGi7TWrNQGQ", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Jul 18, 2021", "length": "" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Walking in Catherine Park. Tsarskoe Selo. The Town of ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6nLVDXqpqmg", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Jun 2, 2022", "length": "" }</div>