Things To Do
in Saint Petersburg
Saint Petersburg, Russia, is a city of grand imperial architecture, winding canals, and world-class museums. It combines Baroque and neoclassical landmarks with a vibrant arts scene and a lively riverfront mindset. The cityscape is a tapestry of gilded domes, white nights, and ornate palaces that overlook the Neva River.
Visitors can immerse themselves in centuries of culture, from the Hermitage to intimate palaces, while enjoying contemporary galleries and a thriving cafe culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Russian pastries and coffee. Afterward, embark on a walking tour of the historic center, marveling at the stunning architecture of the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood. Take your time to absorb the rich history surrounding you as you stroll through the picturesque streets.
In the afternoon, visit the iconic State Hermitage Museum, home to an extensive collection of art and artifacts. Spend a few hours wandering through its opulent halls, admiring masterpieces by artists such as Rembrandt and Da Vinci. Afterward, relax in Palace Square, where you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views of the Winter Palace.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant along the Neva River to indulge in traditional Russian cuisine. Savor dishes like borscht and pelmeni while enjoying the view of the illuminated cityscape. Finish your night with a leisurely stroll along the riverbanks, soaking in the enchanting ambiance of Saint Petersburg.
Start your morning with a visit to the Mariinsky Theatre, where you can tour this historic venue and learn about its significance in Russian ballet and opera. Explore the surrounding area, taking in the vibrant atmosphere of the nearby streets filled with theaters and art galleries. Grab a light lunch in a nearby café, preparing yourself for an enchanting afternoon.
Attend a matinee performance at the Mariinsky Theatre, where you can witness world-class ballet or opera on stage. Feel the excitement build as the curtains rise, immersing yourself in the artistry and talent of the performers. After the show, take a moment to discuss your experience with fellow attendees over coffee at a nearby café.
In the evening, head to a local bar or pub to experience Saint Petersburg's nightlife. Enjoy live music and mingle with locals while sipping on traditional Russian drinks. Conclude your night with a peaceful walk along the canal, admiring the beautifully lit bridges.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $2-5 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
| 🚇One-day public transport pass | $5-8 |
| 🛏️Hotel room (mid-range) per night | $70-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class museums and palaces
- Beautiful canal networks and White Nights atmosphere
- Rich literary and musical heritage
- High-quality dining options and a growing modern scene
- Often crowded in peak season and during White Nights
- Cold winters and variable weather
- Tourist prices can be higher in central areas
- "Здравствуйте" - Hello (formal)
- "Спасибо" - Thank you
- "Где находится ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Говорите по-английски?" - Do you speak English?
- "Сколько стоит?" - How much does it cost?
- "Извините" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Меню, пожалуйста" - Menu, please
- "Где туалет?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Saint Petersburg
Visit one of these nice places.
A vast square framing the Neva horizon with the River Neva and the iconic Admiralty building; ideal for wide-angle cityscape shots at dawn.
A colorful domed façade and intricate mosaics; best photographed from the canal bridges or from the Griboedov Canal embankment.
A world-class collection of galleries and the expansive exterior; museum reflections and snow or rain can produce dramatic architectural photography.
A monumental dome with a panoramic view from the colonnade; climb during clear weather for sweeping city vistas.
Echoes of the city’s early history with the golden spire on the horizon; a strong angle for silhouette shots near the river.
Photograph the bridges in golden hour light, with canal reflections and gilded architectural details along the riverfront.
Food in Saint Petersburg
Saint Petersburg Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A bright beet soup, often served with sour cream and rye bread; widely available in traditional Russian restaurants.
Must-Try!
Delicate dumplings filled with meat, typically served boiled or fried with butter and sour cream.
Tender beef in a creamy mushroom sauce, commonly enjoyed with potatoes or noodles.
Thin pancakes topped or filled with fish or garnish, a classic refined snack or starter.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market offering fresh produce, meats, fish, and prepared foods; great for sampling local snacks and buying ingredients.
Historic marketplace within a grand former shopping arcade; a place to explore local foods, sweets, and street eats.
A cluster of short-term stalls along pedestrians-only sections of Nevsky Prospekt where you can grab pelmeni, blini, and pastries for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and a firm handshake; address people by their surname with a respectful title. Public displays of affection are normal but may be restrained in formal settings.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; remove hats indoors for men; speak softly and avoid loud behavior inside sacred spaces.
Punctuality is valued in formal settings. Maintain polite personal space and avoid loud conversations in quiet venues.
Safety
Tipping in Saint Petersburg
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 10-15% is customary if service is not included. Round up the bill or leave a tip in cash on the table; many places also accept tips via card payments.
Cash rubles are widely accepted, but major credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, sometimes MIR) are increasingly common in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are widely available for cash withdrawals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with the White Nights; outdoor events, canal cruises, and late-evening strolls along the river are common. Pack light clothing, a rain jacket, and comfortable walking shoes.
Crisp air and fall colors in parks and along the embankments. Layered clothing is key as temperatures can swing day-to-night.
Cold but magical with snow and ice, festive markets, and ice skating rinks. Warm coats, hats, gloves, and waterproof footwear are essential.
Rising temperatures and blossoms in gardens and parks; the city comes alive with outdoor cafes and strolls. Expect showers; a light waterproof is handy.
Saint Petersburg at Night
Hiking in Saint Petersburg
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and shoreline trails on a peaceful island in the Neva delta, ideal for easy hikes and photo stops.
Extensive parkland with tree-lined paths, lakes, and historic pavilions; a great day trip for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
A short drive from the city, Toksovo offers forest trails and hill views, popular for hiking and outdoor activities year-round.
Airports
How to reach Saint Petersburg by plane.
The main international gateway to Saint Petersburg, located about 20 kilometers south of the city center; accessible by taxi, regional trains, and bus connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly ethnic Russians; a mix of residents from across the country, with a growing international student and expat community.
A large presence from both Russian and international universities, contributing to a vibrant academic and cultural scene.
Seasonal influx from around the world, concentrated in the city center near major museums and landmarks.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A major sport with local teams and games during the season; arena events are a highlight for sports fans.
Regional teams and occasional international matches draw crowds; games can be found in city stadiums during the season.
Support for basketball teams and occasional tournaments in local venues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint Petersburg.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, including mushroom dishes, beet salads, dumplings with cheese or vegetables, and vegetable-based soups. When dining out, ask for vegetable-based soups, salads, and groats or potato dishes; in markets, focus on vegetable pies, salads, and grains.