Vasilievsky Island Travel Guide

Explore the beauty and culture of Vasilievsky Island with this comprehensive travel guide, featuring must-visit places, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay and what to buy, and more.


Introduction to Vasilievsky Island

Vasilievsky Island is a historic and charming island located in the heart of Saint Petersburg. It is one of the largest islands in the Neva River delta and is home to a rich collection of cultural and natural attractions. This idyllic island is famous for its picturesque scenery, ancient palaces, bridges, and museums, making it a popular destination for travelers from around the world. From tranquil nature to vibrant nightlife, Vasilievsky Island has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Vasilievsky Island

Visitors to Vasilievsky Island will find a plethora of places to visit and explore. Here’s a list of must-see attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kunstkamera: Russia’s first-ever natural history museum, featuring rare exhibits of flora and fauna, and showcasing the unique lifestyles of indigenous peoples from around the world.
  • Hermitage Museum: One of the world’s largest and most comprehensive museums, housing an impressive art collection from across the globe, including works by Rembrandt and Leonardo da Vinci.
  • Petrovsky Embankment: A beautiful riverside promenade studded with 19th-century palaces and mansions that offer a glimpse into Russia’s glittering noble past.
  • St. Petersburg State University: One of Russia’s most prestigious academic institutions and an architectural masterpiece in its own right.

Natural Attractions of Vasilievsky Island: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • New Holland Island: Once a bustling dockyard, this island is now a chic leisure district featuring trendy cafes, green parks, and public art installations.
  • Sestroretsk: A tranquil beach resort town 30 km from St. Petersburg, offering a refreshing change of pace from the city’s hustle and bustle.
  • Strelka: A riverfront park where the Neva river branches out into two smaller streams, offering breathtaking views of both Vasilievsky Island and the city skyline.
  • Ishaya Lake: A calm and serene lake located in the heart of Vasilievsky Island, perfect for a relaxing stroll or a picnic.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Vasilievsky Island

Vasilievsky Island has numerous hiking and biking routes for visitors to explore. Here are some of the best routes:

  • The Neva River Walk: A must-do for nature and scenic enthusiasts, this route takes visitors along the beautiful banks of the Neva river, with endless views of historic landmarks and stunning architecture.
  • Petrograd Side to Old Vasilievsky Island: This route takes visitors on a journey through Vasilievsky Island’s rich history and cultural heritage, with stops at the Kunstkamera, the Twelve Collegia building, and the Old Stock Exchange Building.
  • University Embankment to Sestroretsk: This 35 km route offers breathtaking views of Vasilievsky Island’s natural beauty, with stops at the Strelka and then onto Sestroretsk.

Best Things to Do in Vasilievsky Island: Activities and Tours

Vasilievsky Island offers a variety of fun activities and tours suitable for all ages and interests. Here are some of our favorite things to do:

  • Boat Tours: Explore the beautiful canals and waterways of St. Petersburg while taking in breathtaking views of Vasilievsky Island and the city skyline.
  • Walk through the gardens: Take a leisurely stroll through the island’s unique flora and fauna at the Botanical Garden and Winter Garden.
  • Enjoy live performances: Catch a live performance at Erarta Museum or Mariinsky Theatre to experience the magic of Russian culture.
  • Visit the central market: Explore the lively central food and craft market where you can find local souvenirs, fresh produce, and traditional Russian cuisine.

Week-Long Itinerary for Vasilievsky Island

Here’s a week-long itinerary for Vasilievsky Island to help you make the most of your visit:

Day 1: Arrive in St. Petersburg, check into your hotel, and take a leisurely walk to Petrovsky Embankment.

Day 2: Start the day at the Winter Palace, spend a few hours exploring the Hermitage Museum, then head to St. Petersburg State University to take in the panoramic views of the city.

Day 3: Take the morning to walk around the Botanical Garden, grab a bite to eat from the central market, and then visit Kunstkamera.

Day 4: Rent a bike and take a 2-hour bike ride through Vasilievsky Island, then head to Erarta Museum for a modern art experience.

Day 5: Take a day trip to Sestroretsk to relax by the beach and explore the charming town.

Day 6: Enjoy a boat tour through the canals of St. Petersburg, taking in the stunning city views from the water.

Day 7: Check out of your hotel and take a final walk along the riverfront promenade before departing from St. Petersburg.

Food and Drink Scene of Vasilievsky Island

Russian cuisine is known for its hearty, filling dishes that are perfect for a chilly day. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Borscht: A traditional soup made with beets and cabbage, served with sour cream on top.
  • Pelmeni: Russia’s version of dumplings, which are often filled with minced pork, beef, or fish and served hot with butter and sour cream.
  • Pirozhki: A type of savory stuffed pastry that is typically filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Kvass: A refreshing drink made from fermented rye bread.
  • Vodka: The most well-known Russian spirit, usually served chilled and paired with pickled vegetables.

Where to Stay in Vasilievsky Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Vasilievsky Island has a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Old Vienna Hotel: This quaint hotel offers cozy rooms and modern amenities, located in the heart of the island.
  • Solo Sokos Hotel Palace Bridge: This elegant hotel offers luxurious rooms, an indoor pool, bar, gym, and spa.
  • Baby Lemonade Hostel: This popular hostel boasts a fun and funky atmosphere, with shared dorm-style rooms and a cool bar.

What to Buy in Vasilievsky Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Vasilievsky Island has a range of unique souvenirs and local products that make for perfect gifts or personal mementos. Here are some of our favorites:

  • Matryoshka dolls: Traditional Russian nesting dolls that come in a variety of styles and sizes.
  • Amber jewelry: Amber is a common stone in this region and is often used to create stunning jewelry pieces.
  • Faberge eggs: Intricately crafted decorative eggs originally made for the Russian royal family.

Local Culture and Customs of Vasilievsky Island

The people of Vasilievsky Island are proud of their cultural heritage and traditions. While visiting, it’s important to respect the local customs and etiquette, which includes:

  • Dressing moderately and covering your head when entering religious sites.
  • Removing shoes before entering homes or other indoor spaces.
  • Tipping is not common in Russia, but it is appreciated in more tourist-oriented areas.

Best Time to Visit Vasilievsky Island

The best time to visit Vasilievsky Island is in the summer months from June to August. The weather is mild and pleasant, with plenty of festivals and events taking place. However, the city can be quite crowded during this time, so be prepared for larger crowds and longer wait times at popular attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Vasilievsky Island

Do:

  • Learn a few Russian phrases before your trip, as English isn’t widely spoken outside the tourist areas.
  • Take off your shoes when entering homes or other indoor spaces.
  • Respect the local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t walk around the city with your valuables visible.
  • Don’t photograph or film any military installations.
  • Don’t overstay your visa.

Safety and Health

Safety in Vasilievsky Island

Vasilievsky Island is generally a safe area to visit, but it’s always important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some tips:

  • Avoid walking down dark and deserted streets at night.
  • Don’t flash your valuables, such as cameras or phones, around busy areas.
  • Always be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.

Health in Vasilievsky Island

While there are no major health risks in Vasilievsky Island, it’s still important to take precautions to protect your health. Here are a few tips:

  • Drink bottled water or boil tap water before drinking.
  • Wear sunscreen and insect repellent.
  • Bring any necessary medications with you, including basic first aid supplies.

Getting to Vasilievsky Island: Transportation Options and Logistics

Vasilievsky Island is easily accessible via car, train, or plane. Here are some important transportation options to keep in mind:

Airports Near Vasilievsky Island

The closest airport to Vasilievsky Island is Pulkovo International Airport, which is located just a 30-minute drive away from the island.

Bus Stations Near Vasilievsky Island

There are several bus stations located near Vasilievsky Island that offer regular services to and from the island and St. Petersburg.

Other Options

There are numerous taxi services, both official and private, that can be hired to take visitors to and from Vasilievsky Island.

How to Get Around in Vasilievsky Island

The best way to get around Vasilievsky Island is by foot, as most of the island’s attractions are within walking distance from each other. Visitors can also rent bikes to explore the island or take a boat tour to see the city from a different perspective.

Where to Go Next from Vasilievsky Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have some extra time, consider exploring some of the nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Petrogradsky Island
  • Peterhof Palace
  • Catherine Palace
  • Pushkin (Tsarskoye Selo)

Conclusion

Vasilievsky Island is a stunning destination that combines history, natural beauty, and cultural charm. With this comprehensive guide, visitors can explore the best of the island and have an unforgettable experience. From scenic river walks to delicious cuisine and everything in between, Vasilievsky Island has something for everyone. Start planning your trip today and discover the magic of this charming island.

The Strelka The Strelka Rostral Column in front of Naval Museum Rostral Column in front of Naval Museum Museum of Zoology Museum of Zoology The Kunstkamera The Kunstkamera The University The University Menshikov Palace Menshikov Palace Egyptian Sphinx Egyptian Sphinx St Michael's St Michael's St Andrew's St Andrew's Erarta Museum of Contemporary Art Erarta Museum of Contemporary Art Church of Our Lady the Merciful Church of Our Lady the Merciful