Saint Petersburg

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Saint Petersburg's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore the Hermitage Museum
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
Visit Peterhof Palace
morning
:

Catch a hydrofoil to Peterhof Palace, often referred to as the Russian Versailles. Marvel at the grand architecture and stunning gardens upon arrival.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

Return to the city and enjoy dinner at a local bistro. Reflect on your day filled with beauty and history.

day 3
Discover the Russian Museum
morning
:

Dedicate your morning to the Russian Museum which showcases Russian art from ancient times to modern. The stunning collection includes works by famous artists such as Ilya Repin.

afternoon
:

After lunch, continue your art journey by visiting additional exhibitions in the museum. Enjoy the calm atmosphere and rich artistic heritage.

evening
:

Take a leisurely walk through the nearby Mikhailovsky Garden. Stop by a café for a light dinner and enjoy the serene environment.

day 4
Stroll Along Nevsky Prospect
morning
:

Begin your day exploring Nevsky Prospect, the main avenue of Saint Petersburg. Enjoy the architecture and vibrant streets as you grab a coffee from a local shop.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon visiting shops and exploring landmarks like Kazan Cathedral. Make sure to indulge in some Russian pastries from a nearby bakery.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a spot to enjoy people-watching on Nevsky Prospect. Choose a trendy restaurant for dinner to experience local cuisine.

day 5
Visit the Palace Bridge
morning
:

Start with a morning visit to the iconic Palace Bridge, one of the most famous drawbridges in the city. Watch the opening of the bridge and enjoy the views of the surrounding architecture.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby Vasileostrovsky Island and visit the St. Nicholas Naval Cathedral. Enjoy a lunch at a local eatery with fresh seafood options.

evening
:

As evening approaches, take a boat tour along the Neva River to see the city from a different perspective. Dinner on the riverboat will be a memorable experience.

day 6
Discover Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood
morning
:

Begin your exploration at the breathtaking Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood. Admire its intricate mosaics and ornate architecture that symbolize the city’s rich history.

afternoon
:

Head to a nearby café for lunch before visiting the nearby Russian Museum of Ethnography. Learn about the diverse cultures of Russia through engaging exhibits.

evening
:

Spend the evening relaxing at Anna Akhmatova Museum in the Fountain House. Enjoy dinner at a traditional Russian restaurant with centuries-old recipes.

day 7
Relax in Summer Garden
morning
:

Start your day in the peaceful Summer Garden, a perfect oasis in the city. Enjoy a leisurely walk among the beautiful sculptures and manicured lawns.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at a nearby café before heading to the nearby Marble Palace. Explore its art collections and learn about its history.

evening
:

As dusk falls, find a spot in the garden to watch the sunset over the Neva. Conclude your day with dinner at a local eatery nearby.

day 8
Cruise on the Neva River
morning
:

Begin your day with a scenic cruise on the Neva River. Capture breathtaking views of famous landmarks from the water.

afternoon
:

After the cruise, explore the historic district around St. Isaac's Cathedral. Enjoy lunch at a café with a view of the cathedral's magnificent dome.

evening
:

As night falls, head back for a night river cruise to see the city illuminated. It’s a magical way to appreciate the beauty of Saint Petersburg after dark.

day 9
Visit the State Russian Library
morning
:

Start your day at the State Russian Library, the largest in Russia. Explore its extensive collection and the stunning architecture of the building.

afternoon
:

Sip on some tea while diving into the history of Russian literature during lunch at the library café. Engage with knowledgeable staff for insights and recommendations.

evening
:

Stroll to the nearby Tovstonogov Bolshoi Drama Theater and catch an evening performance. Enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant after the show, discussing the unique experience.

day 10
Explore the Kresty Jail Museum
morning
:

Begin your day at the Kresty Jail Museum, a guide to the darker but significant history of the city. Learn about the lives of famous prisoners and Russian history.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch and reflect on what you’ve learned before visiting the nearby Smolny Cathedral. Admire its impressive blue and white façade and serene ambiance.

evening
:

End your day in a cozy café nearby, enjoying some traditional Russian dishes. Consider sharing stories with fellow travelers about the day’s unique experiences.

Discover Saint Petersburg

Read more in our Saint Petersburg 2024 Travel Guide.

Saint Petersburg Travel Guide