The Hermitage Museum
One of the world's greatest art collections housed in the magnificent Winter Palace, containing over three million items spanning human civilization from Ancient Egypt to modern masterpieces
Read MoreSt. Petersburg, Russia’s imperial capital and cultural heart, is a mesmerizing city of grandeur, history, and artistic brilliance. Founded by Peter the Great in 1703 as a bridge between Russia and Europe, it captivates with opulent baroque palaces, sweeping boulevards, and a labyrinth of canals that earn it the nickname “Venice of the North.” Home to the Hermitage Museum—one of the largest and oldest art museums in the world—St. Petersburg breathes creativity at every corner. The city’s skyline is crowned by golden-domed cathedrals and pastel facades, while its storied theaters, like the Mariinsky, stage world-renowned ballet and opera. From the grandeur of the Winter Palace to the poetic draw of White Nights in summer, St. Petersburg offers a deeply immersive journey into Russia’s soul, where imperial elegance, literary legacy, and contemporary vibrancy exist in perfect harmony.
One of the world's greatest art collections housed in the magnificent Winter Palace, containing over three million items spanning human civilization from Ancient Egypt to modern masterpieces
Read MoreSpectacularly ornate Orthodox church built on the site of Emperor Alexander II's assassination, featuring vibrant mosaics covering over 7,500 square meters of interior space.
Read MoreThe city's original citadel and birthplace, now housing the remains of Russian emperors including Peter the Great and the tragic Romanov family in its cathedral.
Read MoreOften called "The Russian Versailles," this summer imperial residence boasts spectacular fountains, gilded statues, and cascading water features powered entirely by gravity.
Read MoreLavish summer residence in nearby Tsarskoye Selo showcasing the height of Russian imperial luxury, including the legendary Amber Room—a chamber decorated with amber panels backed with gold leaf.
Read MoreSt. Petersburg's main avenue and shopping boulevard, lined with historic buildings, upscale boutiques, restaurants, and theaters spanning 4.5 kilometers through the heart of the city.
Read MorePrestigious cultural venue where the greatest Russian ballets premiered, offering world-class ballet and opera performances in both its historic and modern stages.
Read MoreExperience the magic of St. Petersburg during the White Nights, when twilight lingers and the city pulses with energy around the clock. Glide through its elegant canals and the Neva River on a scenic boat cruise, offering unique views of opulent architecture. Attend a ballet or opera at the Mariinsky Theatre, steeped in artistic history. Explore literary landmarks tied to Dostoevsky and Pushkin, or witness the iconic raising of the drawbridges at midnight. Indulge in rich Russian cuisine, and wander the sprawling grounds of former imperial palaces like Peterhof and Tsarskoye Selo for a regal escape.
Acquire Russian cultural treasures like hand-painted matryoshka nesting dolls, Imperial Porcelain Factory items, amber jewelry from the Baltic region, traditional Pavlovo Posad shawls with vibrant floral patterns, and Lomonosov porcelain (cobalt blue and gold tableware). Gostiny Dvor department store on Nevsky Prospekt offers diverse shopping under one historic roof, while Kuznechny Market provides authentic local food products.
Savor fine Russian cuisine with imperial influences at restaurants like Russian Vodka Room No.1 or experience contemporary gastronomy at Cococo. For casual dining, try traditional pelmeni dumplings at specialty cafés. Nightlife centers around Rubinshteina Street with its concentration of bars and clubs, while summer brings rooftop terraces with spectacular views. Maintain awareness of your surroundings and arrange reliable transportation when enjoying evening activities.
St. Petersburg has a reliable transport system, with its ornate metro offering quick access to major sites. Buses, trams, and marshrutkas cover local routes, while ride-hailing apps like Yandex Go are safer than street taxis. Walking is ideal in central areas, but be alert when crossing roads. Keep valuables secure in crowded places and avoid isolated streets at night. Carry a copy of your ID and hotel address in Russian. Emergency services are accessible and generally efficient for tourists.