Pushkin Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Pushkin with our comprehensive tour guide for travelers. Explore culturally important attractions, natural sites, outdoor adventures, and cuisine of the town.


Introduction to Pushkin

Pushkin, formerly known as Tsarskoye Selo, is a small historic town located in the Leningrad Oblast district of Northwestern Russia. The town is popularly known for its ornate palaces, beautiful gardens, and rich cultural heritage.

Pushkin serves as a gateway to Russian art, architecture, and literature. With an elegant charm and peaceful ambiance, this town attracts travelers with interests in history, architecture, art, nature, and leisure activities. Here’s a comprehensive tour guide for travelers looking to explore Pushkin.

List of Places to Visit in Pushkin

Here are some of the top cultural and natural attractions to tick off the bucket list when visiting Pushkin:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Catherine Palace - Explore the grand palace that was once the summer residence of the Russian Royal family. The palace is a UNESCO world heritage site and houses impressive art, antique furnishings, and a ballroom.
  2. Alexander Palace - Another historic palace that served as the final residence of the Romanov family, including Tsar Nicholas II and his family.
  3. The Museum of Tsarskoye Selo - A museum showcasing the history and culture of Pushkin with collections of art, furniture, and precious artifacts.
  4. Tsarskoye Selo State Lyceum - The school that Alexander Pushkin, a famous Russian poet, and writer attended; it is now a museum.
  5. Church of the Resurrection - A stunning cathedral featuring colorful mosaics, frescoes, and an intricate façade.

Natural Attractions of Pushkin: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Pushkin Park - A beautifully landscaped park that once belonged to the Catherine Palace. The park features several serene lakes, gardens, sculptures, and a skating rink in winter.
  2. Scented Garden - A unique garden filled with fragrant plants, herbs, and flowers, surrounded by a white picket fence.
  3. Lyceum Garden - The formal gardens of the Tsarskoye Selo Lyceum also known as the “Garden of Friendship.”
  4. The Pond of Oblivion - A tranquil lake that features a statue of the French sculptor Etienne Falconet’s “The Bather,” where visitors can enjoy strolls or boat rides during summers and ice-skating in winters.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pushkin

The wooden paths and gravel trails in Pushkin parks offer an opportunity for travelers to engage in outdoor walks, bike rides and explore the beautiful natural landscape. The trails offer scenic views of the town and its surroundings.

Best Things to Do in Pushkin: Activities and Tours

  1. Guided Tours - Take a guided tour of the palaces and museums, and learn about the rich history and culture of Pushkin.
  2. Horse Carriage Ride - A romantic way to explore Pushkin, is taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets of the town.
  3. Ice Skating - During the winter, visitors can go ice-skating on the frozen ponds of the town as well as visit the winter markets.
  4. Food Tours - Embark on a traditional food tour of Pushkin and indulge in local delicacies.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pushkin

Here is an itinerary for spending a week in Pushkin:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival and check-in followed by a tour of the town
Day 2 Visit the Catherine Palace and its garden
Day 3 Explore the Alexander Palace and its surroundings
Day 4 Visit the Museum of Tsarskoye Selo and Tsarskoye Selo State Lyceum
Day 5 Walk through Pushkin Park and the Pond of Oblivion
Day 6 Engage in outdoor sports like ice-skating or cycling
Day 7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Pushkin

Pushkin is known for its traditional Russian cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Borscht - A beetroot soup that is filling and comforting.
  2. Pirozhki - Small baked pies filled with meat, fish, or vegetables.
  3. Blini - Delicious crepes served with sour cream and caviar.

Local Beverages

  1. Kvass - A non-alcoholic drink made from fermented bread, sweetened with sugar or honey.
  2. Russian Vodka - A distilled spirit that has been a favorite of Russians for centuries.

Where to Stay in Pushkin: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options in Pushkin, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some highly recommended ones:

  1. Alexander Palace Hotel - A luxurious hotel located close to the Alexander Palace.
  2. Pushkin Hotel - A budget-friendly hotel situated in the city.
  3. Siderov Guest House - A cozy guest house with stunning views of the town.

What to Buy in Pushkin: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some popular souvenirs and local products to take back home after your trip to Pushkin:

  1. Matryoshka Dolls - Painted wooden dolls containing smaller dolls inside.
  2. Russian Shawls - Traditional handwoven woolen shawls.
  3. Faberge Eggs - Intricately crafted metal and enamel eggs.

Local Culture and Customs of Pushkin

Locals in Pushkin respect their culture and traditions. Visitors are expected to act appropriately and offer the same respect. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Dress modestly while visiting religious places.
  • Take off your shoes when entering someone’s home.
  • Greet people with a handshake.

Best Time to Visit Pushkin

The best time to visit Pushkin is from May to September when the weather is milder and pleasant. The town’s lush parks and gardens are in full bloom, allowing travelers to experience the beauty of Pushkin.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pushkin

Here are some general etiquette and safety tips to consider during your stay in Pushkin:

Do:

  • Be respectful towards locals and local customs.
  • Dress appropriately when visiting a religious site.
  • Learn a few Russian phrases before your trip.

Don’t:

  • Do not photograph people without their permission.
  • Do not litter in the parks or tourist sites.
  • Do not get involved in political discussions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Pushkin

Make sure to keep your belongings safe and watch out for pickpockets in crowded areas. Avoid dark and secluded areas at night.

Health in Pushkin

Tap water is safe to drink in Pushkin. However, it’s always best to drink bottled water to be safe. In case of a medical emergency, visit the nearest hospital, or call emergency services.

Getting to Pushkin: Transportation Options and Logistics

Pushkin is located 24 kilometers south of Saint Petersburg city center. Here are some ways to get to Pushkin:

Airports Near Pushkin

The St. Petersburg-Pulkovo Airport is the nearest airport to Pushkin, located 17 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Pushkin

Several buses run from St. Petersburg to Pushkin, including the number 371 and 382.

Other Options

Taxis and private cars are also available for hire to get around Pushkin and its surroundings.

How to Get Around in Pushkin

The best way to get around Pushkin is by foot, as most of the attractions are within walking distance. In case of long distances or to visit nearby places, visitors can hire a taxi, a car, or take public transport.

Where to Go Next from Pushkin: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions worth visiting after exploring Pushkin:

  1. Visit the State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg.
  2. Head to the Gulf of Finland where you can explore the beaches and fishing villages
  3. Experience the vibrant nightlife of St. Petersburg.

Conclusion

Pushkin, with its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and welcoming locals, offers a unique travel experience to everyone. This comprehensive tour guide should help visitors to plan their stay in Pushkin and make the most out of their trip.

Catherine Palace facade Catherine Palace facade Corner of the Amber Room inside Catherine's Palace Corner of the Amber Room inside Catherine's Palace