Saint Petersburg Travel Guide

Discover the rich cultural and natural attractions, outdoor adventures, food and drinks, and transportation options in Saint Petersburg.


Introduction to Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg, also known as the “Venice of the North,” is the second-largest city in Russia and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. The city is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, beautiful waterways, and colorful festivals. Saint Petersburg was founded in 1703 by Peter the Great and served as the capital of Russia until 1918. Today, it is a vibrant city with a population of over five million people, and a gateway to the magic of northern Russia.

List of Places to Visit in Saint Petersburg

When visiting Saint Petersburg, there are many tourist attractions that you should not miss. Below are some of the most popular places to visit in Saint Petersburg:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Hermitage Museum
  • The Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood
  • Catherine Palace and Park
  • Peterhof Palace and Park
  • St. Isaac’s Cathedral

Natural Attractions of Saint Petersburg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Neva River
  • Summer Gardens
  • The Peter and Paul Fortress
  • Palace Square and the Winter Palace
  • The Mariinsky Theater

Hiking/Biking Routes of Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities in the following natural destinations:

  • Yusupov Garden
  • Lomonosov Park
  • Alexandrinsky Park
  • Sosnovka Park
  • Krestovsky Island

Best Things to Do in Saint Petersburg: Activities and Tours

There are many things to do and see in Saint Petersburg. Below are some of the best activities and tours to consider while you are there:

  • Boat Tour on the Neva River
  • Walking Tour of the City
  • Nighttime City Tour
  • Ballet or Theater Performance
  • Excursion to Peterhof by Hydrofoil

Week-Long Itinerary for Saint Petersburg

Here’s a week-long itinerary for you to make the most of your stay in Saint Petersburg:

Day Morning Afternoon Evening
1 Hermitage Museum City Walking Tour Night Boat Tour
2 St. Isaac’s Cathedral Yusupov Palace Mariinsky Theater
3 Peter and Paul Fortress Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood Rooftop Tour
4 Catherine Palace and Park Local Market Tour Nightlife Tour
5 Peterhof Palace and Park Hydrofoil Tour Swan Lake Ballet
6 Neva River Cruise Summer Gardens Football Match
7 Faberge Museum State Russian Museum Night Canal Tour

Food and Drink Scene of Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is renowned for its excellent cuisine and delicious local drinks. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Blini (Russian pancakes)
  • Pelmeni (Russian dumplings)
  • Borscht (beet soup)
  • Shashlik (Russian kebabs)
  • Pirozhki (stuffed buns)

Local Beverages

  • Vodka
  • Kvass (Russian fermented drink)
  • Chaika (local beer)
  • Medovukha (honey-based alcoholic beverage)
  • Tarragon soda

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

There are many accommodation options in Saint Petersburg to suit every budget, from luxury hotels to hostels and guesthouses. Here are some recommended options:

  • Hotel Astoria
  • Four Seasons Hotel Lion Palace St. Petersburg
  • Ermitage Hotel
  • Friends on Fontanka Hostel
  • Simple Hostel Nevsky

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

Saint Petersburg is home to many unique and fascinating souvenirs and local products to take home, including:

  • Matryoshka Dolls (traditional Russian dolls)
  • Russian Shawls
  • Amber Jewelry
  • Russian Samovars (tea kettles)
  • Russian Caviar

Local Culture and Customs of Saint Petersburg

The local culture in Saint Petersburg is steeped in history and tradition, which is reflected in the city’s rich architecture, art, music, and cuisine. Some customs to keep in mind when visiting Saint Petersburg:

  • Dress modestly and respectfully when visiting churches and religious sites
  • Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple
  • Always carry identification with you
  • Greet people with a handshake
  • Be aware that smoking is not allowed in public areas in the city

Best Time to Visit Saint Petersburg

The best time to visit Saint Petersburg is during the summer months of June, July, and August when the weather is at its warmest, and there is a range of outdoor activities and cultural events to attend.

Do’s and Don’ts of Saint Petersburg

Do:

  • Carry identification with you at all times
  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Dress appropriately for the weather
  • Be polite and courteous
  • Learn some basic Russian language

Don’t:

  • Engage in public displays of affection
  • Wear shoes inside someone’s home
  • Take photographs of religious ceremonies without permission
  • Litter in public places
  • Dine and Dash

Safety and Health

Safety in Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is generally safe for tourists. Be cautious of pickpockets in highly touristy areas and be aware of your surroundings at all times, especially at night.

Health in Saint Petersburg

Ensure you have comprehensive medical insurance before traveling, and be aware of any health risks or necessary vaccinations before visiting Saint Petersburg.

Getting to Saint Petersburg: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg has one international airport, Pulkovo International Airport, which serves both domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Saint Petersburg

The main bus station in Saint Petersburg is the Moscow Railway Station, which offers both domestic and international bus services.

Other Options

Other transportation options for getting to Saint Petersburg include train and boat services from other cities in Russia and neighboring countries.

How to Get Around in Saint Petersburg

There are many transportation options for getting around Saint Petersburg, such as:

  • Metro
  • Bus
  • Tram
  • Trolleybus
  • Taxi

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

After exploring Saint Petersburg, there are many nearby destinations and excursions to enjoy. Some popular options include:

  • Moscow
  • Kazan
  • Veliky Novgorod
  • The Golden Ring (a collection of ancient cities in Central Russia)

Conclusion

Saint Petersburg is a stunning city with a rich cultural heritage, beautiful architecture, natural attractions, and delicious cuisine. This comprehensive tour guide has detailed everything you need to know about exploring Saint Petersburg in style. Happy travels!

The Bronze Horseman, a.k.a. Peter the Great The Bronze Horseman, a.k.a. Peter the Great Saint Petersburg is nicknamed the 'Venice of the North' Saint Petersburg is nicknamed the 'Venice of the North' Winter: snowstorms Winter: snowstorms Summer: White Nights Summer: White Nights View down Nevsky Prospect View down Nevsky Prospect On Nevsky Prospekt you don't need to know the Cyrillic alphabet to read the street signs. Nevertheless, you need a magnifying glass. On Nevsky Prospekt you don't need to know the Cyrillic alphabet to read the street signs. Nevertheless, you need a magnifying glass. St. Petersburg Metro St. Petersburg Metro Tram map 2022 Tram map 2022 The Hermitage Museum The Hermitage Museum Bridges by night Bridges by night Church on the Spilled Blood Church on the Spilled Blood The fountain in waters of Neva River at the spit of Vasilievsky Island The fountain in waters of Neva River at the spit of Vasilievsky Island The Exchange Building and the Rostral Columns The Exchange Building and the Rostral Columns The Kunstkamera The Kunstkamera Saint Michael's Castle Saint Michael's Castle May 9, Immortal Regiment May 9, Immortal Regiment Oreshek fortess, a view from the right bank of Neva River Oreshek fortess, a view from the right bank of Neva River


    Right Bank
    Vasilievsky Island