Things To Do
in Saint Petersburg
Founded by Tsar Peter the Great in 1703 as a window to the West, this magnificent city is often referred to as the cultural capital of Russia due to its impressive collection of historic buildings, museums, and theaters. Nestled on the Neva River at the head of the Gulf of Finland on the Baltic Sea, its iconic landmarks include the baroque Winter Palace, which houses part of the Hermitage Museum's art collection.
With its elaborate network of canals, opulent architecture, and rich historical heritage, Saint Petersburg presents a unique blend of Russian and European cultures.
- "Privet" - Hello
- "Kak dela?" - How are you?
- "Spasibo" - Thank you
- "Pozhaluysta" - Please
- "Do svidaniya" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Hermitage Museum, home to millions of artworks. Take your time to admire masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci and Rembrandt.
Enjoy lunch at a nearby café before continuing to explore the museum's vast collections. Consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights into its history.
Wrap up your day with a stroll along the Neva River. Find a cozy restaurant for dinner and take in the beautiful views of the city lights.
Catch a hydrofoil to Peterhof Palace, often referred to as the Russian Versailles. Marvel at the grand architecture and stunning gardens upon arrival.
Spend your afternoon exploring the gardens and fountains that make Peterhof famous. Don’t forget to visit the Grand Palace to see its opulent interiors.
Return to the city and enjoy dinner at a local bistro. Reflect on your day filled with beauty and history.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with numerous museums, theaters, and historical architecture
- Stunning canals and waterways, often referred to as the 'Venice of the North'
- Vibrant arts scene, including ballet and opera performances
- Beautiful parks and gardens, notably the Summer Garden and Catherine Park
- Unique white nights during summer, where the sun never fully sets
- Harsh winters with extreme cold and heavy snowfall
- High levels of humidity, especially during summer months
- Traffic congestion and limited parking in the city center
- Cost of living can be high in certain areas, especially for housing
- Occasional political tensions and issues regarding safety for foreigners
Best Activities in Saint Petersburg
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful parks and gardens in Saint Petersburg, such as the Summer Garden, Catherine Park, and the Field of Mars.
Take a boat tour or cruise along the rivers and canals of Saint Petersburg to admire the city's stunning architecture from a different perspective.
Visit the spectacular Peterhof Palace and Gardens, known as the Russian Versailles, and enjoy the grandeur of its fountains and landscapes.
Explore the historic Peter and Paul Fortress, which offers panoramic views of the city and is a great place for a leisurely walk.
Join a biking or walking tour to discover the city's landmarks, hidden gems, and local neighborhoods while enjoying the fresh air.
Tours
Uncover the best of Saint Petersburg with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Saint Petersburg
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a panoramic view of the city from its colonnade
Provides scenic views of the Neva River and the city skyline
Known for its picturesque exterior and location along the Griboedov Canal
Food in Saint Petersburg
Saint Petersburg Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty beet soup often made with beef or pork, and served with a dollop of sour cream. Recommended to try at Pyshechnaya for an authentic taste.
Must-Try!
Savory dumplings filled with minced meat, such as pork, beef, or lamb, and typically served with a side of sour cream. Teplo is highly regarded for its delicious pelmeni.
Thin Russian pancakes often filled with various ingredients like smoked salmon, caviar, or sweet toppings. Head to Teremok for a wide selection of blini.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Saint Petersburg better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a wide array of fresh produce, meats, and local delicacies. Visitors can sample traditional snacks like smoked fish and pickles.
This street is known for its vibrant food scene offering diverse cuisines from Georgian to Japanese. Tantalize your taste buds with street food like shawarma and kebabs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When entering a Russian Orthodox church or someone's home, it's important to remove your hat and shoes to show respect.
In Russia, it's customary to greet people with a firm handshake and maintain direct eye contact. Addressing people using their titles and last names is also a sign of respect.
Russians tend to stand closer together in conversations compared to some other cultures. It's important to understand and respect personal space while interacting socially.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Saint Petersburg with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Saint Petersburg
Ensure a smooth experience
In Saint Petersburg, it is customary to leave a 10% tip at restaurants, cafes, and bars if the service charge is not included in the bill. Tipping hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides is also appreciated but not mandatory.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Saint Petersburg, especially in hotels, restaurants, and major stores. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are easily accessible for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Saint Petersburg.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Saint Petersburg is during the summer when the city experiences its famous White Nights. You can expect long daylight hours, numerous cultural events, and pleasant weather for exploring the city's attractions.
Spring is another good time to visit Saint Petersburg as the city comes alive with the blooming of flowers and the gradual increase in temperatures. It's a great time for walking tours and enjoying the city's parks and gardens.
Autumn in Saint Petersburg brings beautiful foliage and fewer tourists, making it a quieter time to visit. The weather can be unpredictable, but you'll still be able to enjoy the city's cultural offerings and museums.
While winters in Saint Petersburg are cold and dark, the city takes on a magical atmosphere with its snow-covered streets and festive decorations. It's a great time to experience traditional Russian winter activities and enjoy the city's indoor attractions.
Saint Petersburg at Night
Hiking in Saint Petersburg
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful area with scenic views and various trails around one of the largest lakes in Europe, ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.
Offers a combination of forests, lakes, and hills with numerous hiking trails, perfect for nature enthusiasts and those looking for a challenging hike.
A historical park with manicured gardens, wooded areas, and walking paths, offering a serene hiking experience within a short drive from the city.
This expansive park surrounding Gatchina Palace features woods, lakes, and well-maintained trails, making it a pleasant hiking destination.
Located near the Gulf of Finland, with coastal trails that blend sea views and forested areas, ideal for a relaxing day hike.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Saint Petersburg through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Saint Petersburg by plane.
The main international airport serving Saint Petersburg, located approximately 23 kilometers south of the city center.
An international airport located in Vantaa, Finland, approximately 400 kilometers from Saint Petersburg. It serves as a major hub for flights to and from Europe and Asia.
The main international airport in Tallinn, Estonia, located about 350 kilometers from Saint Petersburg. It serves as a key gateway to the Baltic states.
The largest airport in Latvia, located about 700 kilometers from Saint Petersburg. It acts as a hub for various international flights across Europe and beyond.
One of the three major airports serving Moscow, located approximately 703 kilometers from Saint Petersburg. It handles domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Saint Petersburg, making up a significant majority of the city's population.
A notable minority in Saint Petersburg, with a rich cultural presence and historical ties to the region.
Another prominent ethnic group in the city, sharing linguistic and cultural similarities with Russians.
A smaller, yet historically significant group with a unique cultural heritage in Saint Petersburg.
An important minority community contributing to the city's cultural diversity.
A historic community in Saint Petersburg with a long-standing cultural and social legacy.
A smaller ethnic group with a presence in the city, contributing to its multicultural makeup.
Includes various smaller groups from Central Asia, the Caucasus, and elsewhere, enhancing the cultural tapestry of Saint Petersburg.
The Soul of Saint Petersburg
Discover the essence of Saint Petersburg through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is extremely popular in Saint Petersburg, with several professional teams, including SKA Saint Petersburg, which competes in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL).
Football is widely followed in Saint Petersburg, with FC Zenit Saint Petersburg being one of the top teams in Russia, competing in the Russian Premier League and performing well in European competitions.
Basketball has a significant following in Saint Petersburg, with local teams competing in various leagues and the city hosting numerous basketball events.
Volleyball is popular in Saint Petersburg, with successful clubs and a strong amateur scene, both for men and women.
Figure skating is a prominent sport in Saint Petersburg, with many famous ice skaters hailing from the city and various competitions held annually.
Athletics is popular, with many local athletes competing at national and international levels, supported by several athletic clubs and events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint Petersburg.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Saint Petersburg has a growing number of eateries offering vegetarian and vegan options. Look for 'vegetarianskaya' (вегетарианская) or 'veganskaya' (веганская) on menus.
Several restaurants and cafes in Saint Petersburg are mindful of gluten-free diets, providing dishes like buckwheat pancakes and gluten-free pastries.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Saint Petersburg with these cultural adventures.
