Saint Petersburg (district) Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and more in Saint Petersburg (District) with our comprehensive travel guide. Plan your trip and explore its cultural landmarks, hiking and biking routes, local cuisines, and neighboring attractions.


Introduction to Saint Petersburg (District)

Saint Petersburg (District), located in Leningrad Oblast in the Northwestern region of Russia, is an enigmatic blend of art, history, and natural beauty. Though it holds no connection to Saint Petersburg City apart from sharing its name, the district entices visitors with its unique cultural landmarks and breathtaking outdoor scenery. From exploring the world-renowned museums and historical sites to hiking and biking in its unspoiled countryside, Saint Petersburg (District) has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Saint Petersburg (District)

  • Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
    • The Peterhof Palace and Gardens
    • The Catherine Palace and Amber Room
    • The State Hermitage Museum
    • The Nevsky Avenue
    • The Saint Isaac’s Cathedral
  • Natural Attractions: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
    • The Valaam Island
    • The Kurgalsky Peninsula National Park
    • The Vyborg Castle
    • The Sestroretsk Coastal Trail
    • The Lake Ladoga

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The district boasts of some of the most beautiful and artistically rich museums and historical sites in the world. Among the most popular are:

The Peterhof Palace and Gardens

The Peterhof Palace and Gardens, also known as the Russian Versailles, is an awe-inspiring creation of Russian Czar Peter the Great. Spread over a massive 2,000-acre site, the palace entices visitors with its impressive fountain system, luxurious halls, and lush green gardens.

The Catherine Palace and Amber Room

The Catherine Palace, a masterpiece of baroque architecture, is famous for its spectacular Amber Room, a room decorated entirely in amber and gold. A must-visit attraction, the palace’s interiors are adorned with ornate furniture and grand paintings.

The State Hermitage Museum

One of the world’s largest and oldest museums, the State Hermitage Museum, houses over three million art and cultural objects. The museum’s vast collection includes artifacts from across the globe, including works of Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Vincent van Gogh.

The Nevsky Avenue

A hallmark of Saint Petersburg’s architectural beauty, Nevsky Avenue, is one of its most significant landmarks. The avenue features unique buildings, cafes, museums, art galleries, and theaters, a perfect place to witness the city’s vibrant cultural heritage.

The Saint Isaac’s Cathedral

A stunning example of neoclassical architecture, the Saint Isaac’s Cathedral, is one of the district’s most significant icons. The cathedral’s dome is one of the world’s largest and boasts of some of the best panoramic views of the city.

Natural Attractions of Saint Petersburg (District): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Home to some of the country’s most awe-inspiring landscapes, Saint Petersburg (District) offers a wide variety of outdoor adventures and scenic views. Notable attractions include:

The Valaam Island

The Valaam Island, located on Lake Ladoga, is a picturesque island that features pristine lakes, forests, and several monasteries. Explore the island by taking a boat tour or indulge in some water activities like kayaking.

The Kurgalsky Peninsula National Park

A biosphere reserve and protected natural area, the Kurgalsky Peninsula National Park, boasts of some of the region’s most dramatic landscapes. The park features pristine beaches, rocky cliffs, and virgin forests, perfect for hiking and picnicking.

The Vyborg Castle

The Vyborg Castle, located in the old town of Vyborg, is an ancient monument that dates back to the thirteenth century. Visiting the castle is like taking a trip back in time to the medieval era.

The Sestroretsk Coastal Trail

A scenic hiking trail located along the coast, the Sestroretsk Coastal Trail, offers stunning views of the region’s wild beauty, including dunes, forests, and salt marshes.

The Lake Ladoga

Known as Europe’s largest freshwater lake, the Lake Ladoga, is a playground for water sports enthusiasts. Activities like fishing, kayaking, and swimming are popular here.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Saint Petersburg (District)

The district boasts of several hiking and bike routes, perfect for exploring the region’s natural beauty. Some of the popular routes include:

  • The Karelian Isthmus Bike Trail
  • The Konevets Island Hiking Trail
  • The Sestroretsk Cycling Trail
  • The Kronstadt Cycling Trail
  • The Lebyazhie Wilderness Trail

Best Things to Do in Saint Petersburg (District): Activities and Tours

Apart from its popular attractions, Saint Petersburg (District) is brimming with exciting activities and tours. A few notable ones include:

  • Visiting the Semyonov Traditional Toy Museum and create a toy to take home
  • Taking a canal cruise to explore the city’s stunning architecture from a different perspective
  • Strolling through the local farmer’s markets and tasting some of the freshest produce
  • Taking a Russian cooking class and learn how to make traditional Russian cuisine
  • Embarking on an urban exploration tour and discover the hidden gems of Saint Petersburg (District)

Week-Long Itinerary for Saint Petersburg (District)

Day 1: Explore the Peterhof Palace and Gardens Day 2: Visit the State Hermitage Museum and the Nevsky Avenue Day 3: Take a boat tour of the Valaam Island Day 4: Hike the Kurgalsky Peninsula National Park Day 5: Take a cycling tour of Kronstadt Day 6: Visit the Sestroretsk Coastal Trail and enjoy some beach time Day 7: Indulge in some local food and shopping before departing

Food and Drink Scene of Saint Petersburg (District)

No trip to Saint Petersburg (District) is complete without indulging in its unique culinary experience. Some must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Borscht: A hearty soup made with beets and vegetables, served with a dollop of sour cream.
  • Blini: A type of Russian pancake, filled with sweet or savory ingredients, like caviar or cottage cheese.
  • Pelmeni: A traditional food wrapped in dough and filled with minced meat.
  • Caviar: Fish roe delicacy that is a popular appetizer, usually served with crackers or bread.
  • Kvass: A refreshing drink made with fermented bread or barley.

Local Beverages

  • Vodka: A staple drink in Russia, it is best enjoyed in small servings alongside pickled vegetables or caviar.
  • Russian Tea: A classic drink, usually served sweetened and with a slice of lemon.
  • Kvas: A refreshing drink made with fermented bread or barley, similar to beer.

Where to Stay in Saint Petersburg (District): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Saint Petersburg (District) offers a range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses. A few recommended places to stay include:

  • Grand Peterhof Spa Hotel
  • Four Seasons Hotel Lion Palace
  • Courtyard By Marriott Saint Petersburg Baltic Centre
  • Djaga Hostel
  • Small Hotel Bulka

What to Buy in Saint Petersburg (District): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the best souvenirs to bring home from Saint Petersburg (District) include:

  • Traditional woolen shawls and scarves
  • Handcrafted wooden boxes and lamps
  • Matryoshka dolls
  • Russian chocolate and sweets
  • Gemstones and amber jewelry

Local Culture and Customs of Saint Petersburg (District)

While Saint Petersburg (District) shares many cultural customs with Russia, it also has some unique local customs, including:

  • Clapping three times for good luck
  • Bringing flowers to a dinner party, preferably in odd numbers
  • Taking off shoes when entering someone’s home
  • Using “Zdravstvuyte” for greeting, instead of “Privet”

Best Time to Visit Saint Petersburg (District)

The best time to visit Saint Petersburg (District) is between June and August, when the weather is pleasant, and most of the outdoor attractions are open. However, the city can get crowded during these months, so it’s best to plan in advance.

Do’s and Don’ts of Saint Petersburg (District)

Do:

  • Try traditional Russian cuisine
  • Visit local farmer’s markets
  • Stroll through the city’s parks and enjoy the greenery
  • Take a canal cruise to explore the city’s architecture
  • Learn a few common Russian phrases

Don’t:

  • Drink tap water
  • Wear shoes inside someone’s home
  • Take pictures inside churches without permission
  • Be loud in public places
  • Smoke in nonsmoking areas

Safety and Health

While Saint Petersburg (District) is generally a safe place to visit, it is always recommended to take precautions and stay safe. Here are some tips to remember:

Safety in Saint Petersburg (District)

  • Avoid areas that are poorly lit or deserted at night
  • Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas
  • Be aware of pickpockets and scammers
  • Always carry identification and emergency contact information

Health in Saint Petersburg (District)

  • Ensure that you are up to date with routine vaccinations
  • Drink bottled water and avoid tap water
  • Protect yourself from insect bites by wearing long clothing and using insect repellent
  • Familiarize yourself with emergency numbers and hospital locations

Getting to Saint Petersburg (District): Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Saint Petersburg (District) is relatively easy, thanks to its well-connected airports, bus stations, and train stations. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Saint Petersburg (District)

  • Pulkovo International Airport
  • Helsinki Airport

Bus Stations Near Saint Petersburg (District)

  • St. Petersburg Bus Station
  • St. Petersburg Avtovo International Bus Station

Other Options

  • Trains: Saint Petersburg has several train stations, connecting it to the rest of Russia and neighboring countries.
  • Taxis and Ride-sharing: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are available in the city.

How to Get Around in Saint Petersburg (District)

The best way to get around Saint Petersburg (District) is by public transportation, which includes buses, trolleybuses, and the metro. You can also hail a taxi or rent a car if you prefer more private transportation.

Where to Go Next from Saint Petersburg (District): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

While Saint Petersburg (District) has much to explore, there are several neighboring destinations worth visiting. A few notable ones include:

  • Moscow
  • Helsinki, Finland
  • Tallinn, Estonia
  • Riga, Latvia

Conclusion

Saint Petersburg (District) has something for everyone, from cultural landmarks to breathtaking scenery, and a diverse culinary scene. Plan ahead and take advantage of its many attractions and activities to make the most out of your trip.



    Peterhof
    Pushkin
    Saint Petersburg