Saint Petersburg

Russia, Europe

Saint Petersburg, the cultural heart of Russia, is renowned for its stunning architecture, art museums like the Hermitage, and lavish palaces such as Peterhof. The city boasts a rich history with canals reminiscent of Venice, vibrant nightlife, and numerous festivals, making it a captivating destination. The late White Nights in June provide extended daylight, offering unique experiences like evening canal tours and open-air concerts. It's a blend of history and modernity that enchants every visitor.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Pulkovo

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Saint Petersburg

1

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Hermitage Museum

Explore one of the world's largest and oldest museums.

Booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Cruise the Neva River

Experience the city from a unique waterfront perspective.

No booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Tour the Peterhof Palace

Admire stunning gardens and fountains of this royal estate.

Booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Wander through the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood

Marvel at its intricate mosaics and stunning architecture.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll Nevskiy Prospekt

Enjoy shopping, dining, and vibrant street life.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Russian Museum

Discover a vast collection of Russian art over centuries.

No booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Fabergé Museum

See exquisite Fabergé eggs and Russian decorative arts.

Booking required
8

Est. 2.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Enjoy a ballet at the Mariinsky Theatre

Witness world-class ballet in an iconic venue.

Booking required
9

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Experience the White Nights Festival

Join in summer celebrations with music and arts.

No booking required
10

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the State Russian Museum of Ethnography

Learn about Russia's diverse cultures and traditions.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10-15%)

Tapwater

No data

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-17 (#205 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Russian Ruble

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Russian

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Pelmeni

Dumplings filled with meat or vegetables. (National dish)

Borscht

V

Beet soup often served with sour cream.

Blini

V

Thin pancakes, often filled with sweet or savory.

Beef Stroganoff

Creamy beef dish served with noodles or rice.

Shchi

V

Cabbage soup, hearty and warming.

Phrases to learn

English

Russian

Hello

Privet

(Pree-vyeht)

Yes/No

Da / Net

(Dah / Nyet)

Thank you

Spasibo

(Spah-see-bah)

Excuse me

Izvinite

(Eez-vee-neet-yeh)

How much?

Skol'ko?

(Skohl-koh)