lemiBeing the largest country in the world, Russia presents a buffet of ventures for its visitors to take part in.
All Hail St. Petersburg!
Saint Petersburg, Vasyl'evsky Ostrov
The second largest city in Russia, St. Petersburg is known to be one of the country’s main economic and cultural centers. It has been dubbed “the Venice of the North,” thanks to its abundance of elegant canals, breathtaking courtyards, and jaw-dropping architecture. Get lost in the splendor of it all as you navigate through St. Petersburg’s must-visit destinations! Whether you’re here for a history lesson or simply want to take in the capital’s one-of-a-kind atmosphere, there’s something for every kind of traveler here.
Updated 4 years ago
The prestigious State Hermitage Museum is the second biggest museum in the world. It was founded in 1764 when Catherine the Great purchased a collection of paintings from a Berlin merchant named Johann Ernst Gotzkowsky. Now, it is home to more than three million works of Western European art, occupying several historic buildings within the main complex. Drop by the Western Palace to immerse yourself in prehistoric artifacts; marvel at classical antiquities in the New Hermitage; or, explore the wonders of Italian Renaissance in the Old Hermitage. Admission is free every first Thursday of the month, so plan your visit then to save a few bucks!
- +7 812 710 90 79
Palace Square, 2, St. Petersburg, Russia
Дворцовая пл., 2, Санкт-Петербург- http://www.hermitagemuseum.org/
Often referred to as the “Russian Versailles,” Peterhof boasts an impressive cluster of lavish parks and mansions. The brainchild of Peter the Great, the UNESCO World Heritage site features a series of structures that pay tribute to the country’s rich history and heritage. Spot Peterhof’s majestic centerpiece, the Grand Palace, which served as the former summer palace of Russia’s monarchs. Glorious water fountains surround the building, the most famous being the Samson Fountain on the Grand Cascade. Find the statue of Samson tearing up a lion’s jaw, symbolizing Russia’s victory over Sweden during the Great Northern War!
- +7 812 450 56 52
Razvodnaya Ulitsa, 2, Saint Petersburg, Russia
Разводная ул., 2, Санкт-Петербург- https://peterhofmuseum.ru/
Come face-to-face with the city’s largest Russian Orthodox cathedral! Built by French architect Auguste de Montferrand, Saint Isaac’s Cathedral took a total of 40 years to design and complete. It is dedicated to Saint Isaac of Dalmatia, the patron saint of Peter the Great (who was born during the saint’s feast day). Be one of the 14,000 worshippers who frequent the iconic edifice daily! Marvel at its neoclassical facade—which highlights 112 red granite columns—and its signature gold-plated dome. Make your trip even more special by climbing 300 steps up to the colonnade for majestic views of St. Petersburg!
- +7 812 315 97 32
Saint Isaac's Square, 4, Saint Petersburg, Russia
Исаакиевская пл., 4, Санкт-Петербург, Россия- https://cathedral.ru/
Delve into Russian history at Peter and Paul Fortress! Established in 1703, St. Petersburg’s original citadel has served different functions over the years. It was used as a military base, a prison for high profile politicians, and even a museum! Roam the area to see a number of significant sights such as the Grand Ducal Burial Vault and Saint Petersburg Mint (a coin manufacturing facility). Keep an eye out for the Peter and Paul Cathedral, the burial ground of all Russian emperors!
- +7 812 230 64 31
Zayachy Island, St. Petersburg, Russia
- https://www.spbmuseum.ru/themuseum/museum_complex/peterpaul_fortress/
Church of our Savior on Spilled Blood
Церковь Спаса на Крови
Saint Petersburg, Russia • Recommendation •
The Church of Our Savior on Spilled Blood was built on the site of Alexander II’s assassination in March 1881. Construction began during the reign of his son, Alexander III, with the intention of memorializing his father. They even had a shrine made in the exact place where the late emperor died! Revel in the traditional Russian-style architecture visible in every nook and cranny of the church. Inside, over 7,500 square meters of mosaics cover the walls and ceilings, depicting significant biblical scenes and figures.
- +7 812 315 16 36
Griboedov Canal Embankment, 2, St. Petersburg, Russia
2, Набережная Канала Грибоедова, Санкт-Петербург, Россия
Feast your eyes on the world’s largest collection of Russian art at the State Russian Museum! In honor of his father Alexander III, Nicholas II bought the Mikhailovsky Palace in 1895 and turned it into the magnificent institution we know today. Peruse 400,000 exhibits that showcase the works of world-renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Andy Warhol. You’ll also encounter important masterpieces covering major eras, from the 11th century all the way to the modern and contemporary periods!
- +7 812 347 87 19
4 Inzhenernaya Street, St. Petersburg, Russia
Инженерная ул., 4, Санкт-Петербург, Россия- http://en.rusmuseum.ru/
Enjoy a pleasant day out at St. Petersburg most prominent public space—Palace Square! Laid out by neoclassicist architect Carlo Rossi, it combines some of the grandest pieces of architecture in the world. On the north side, the Winter Palace stands in all its baroque glory; while the yellow and white General Staff building lies on the southern part of the square. Right in the middle, the Alexander Column (named after Alexander I) rises to commemorate Russia’s win in the Napoleonic Wars.
Palace Square, St. Petersburg, Russia
Дворцовая пл., Санкт-Петербург, Россия
The legendary Mariinsky Theatre has hosted world-class talents and performances since opening in 1860. It was regarded as the leading music theatre in the late 19th century, where the works of Peter Tchaikovsky (“Swan Lake” and “The Nutcracker”) Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov (“The Russian Easter Festival Overture”) took center stage. Check their website for schedules and line-ups. Who knows, your favorite act might just be in town for an unforgettable show!
- +7 812 326 41 41
Theatre Square, 1, St. Petersburg, Russia
Театральная пл., 1, Санкт-Петербург, Россия- https://www.mariinsky.ru/en/
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