Top Things To Do In Palace Square (Saint Petersburg) In 2026 - 2027

Top 10 things to do in Palace Square

1. 1. Hermitage Museum Tour

   Discover the treasures of the Hermitage Museum, one of the world's largest and most prestigious museums, located in the Winter Palace. The tour offers an extensive exploration of the vast art collection, encompassing over three million works of art. Visitors can admire masterpieces from antiquity to the works of the European masters, including Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Rembrandt. As they wander through the stunning state rooms and corridors, they will immerse themselves in the grandeur of Imperial Russia. The Hermitage houses an incredible array of fine art, cultural artifacts, and the history of Russian emperors.

   Duration: 3-4 hours · Price: Varies, typically around $40-50 USD

2. 2. Winter Palace State Rooms Visit

   The Winter Palace, once the official residence of the Russian monarchs, is an architectural masterpiece in itself and a top attraction within Palace Square. Visitors can explore the baroque-style palace's opulent State Rooms on a guided visit, providing insights into royal life. Among the highlights are the grand Peter the Great Hall, the lavish Throne Room, and the stunning Armorial Hall. Each room is adorned with luxurious decor, ornate ceilings, and impressive works of art, inviting guests to step back in time and experience the splendor of the Tsarist era. The tour not only offers visual intrigue but also a comprehensive narrative of the palace's history.

   Duration: 1.5-2 hours · Price: Around $15-30 USD

3. 3. Alexander Column Photo Session

   Standing tall at the heart of Palace Square is the Alexander Column, a monument dedicated to the Russian military victory in the war with Napoleon. Visitors can have a professional photo session with this iconic symbol of Saint Petersburg as the backdrop, capturing memories of their visit in stunning high-resolution images. The column, with its statue of an angel holding a cross, makes for a captivating subject, especially given the historical Winter Palace and General Staff Building surrounding it. The session can include solo, couple, or group photos, and the photographer will often suggest various angles and poses to best capture the essence of the location.

   Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour · Price: Around $100-150 USD

4. 4. Palace Square Walking Tour

   Embark on a walking tour of the historical Palace Square, the central square of Saint Petersburg, and witness the city’s imperial past. Your guide will take you through the story of the square, from its inception to the present day, sharing tales of the events that shaped the history of Russia, including the Bloody Sunday massacre and the October Revolution. As you stroll, you will see the Winter Palace, the General Staff Building, the Alexander Column, and various other monuments and governmental buildings. The tour is a wonderful way to comprehend the square's architectural magnificence and its pivotal roles throughout Russian history, all while enjoying the ambiance of this grand public space.

   Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Free to $20 USD

5. 5. General Staff Building Art Collection Visit

   Adjacent to the Winter Palace, the General Staff Building, with its remarkable triumphal arch, is another iconic feature of Palace Square. The building houses a part of the Hermitage Museum collection, focusing primarily on art from the 19th to the 21st centuries. Visitors can admire significant works by French Impressionists and Post-Impressionists, as well as pieces from the Russian avant-garde movement. A tour of the General Staff Building offers not only visual delights but also a deeper understanding of the evolution of European and Russian art during a time of great change in the art world.

   Duration: 2-3 hours · Price: Included with the Hermitage ticket, otherwise around $10-15 USD

6. 6. Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride

   Experience Palace Square and the surrounding attractions from the nostalgic perspective of a horse-drawn carriage. This romantic and quaint mode of transport allows visitors to feel as though they have been transported back to the 19th century. During the ride, they can admire the architectural marvels and picturesque streets of Saint Petersburg in a traditional carriage, guided by a coachman. The sound of horse hooves on the cobblestone adds to the charm of the experience. The ride typically takes you around the square and may extend to nearby points of interest, such as Nevsky Prospect or the embankment of the Neva River.

   Duration: 20-30 minutes · Price: Around $50-100 USD

7. 7. War and Peace Ball Reenactment

   Partake in a historical reenactment and cultural event inspired by the balls held during the time of Leo Tolstoy's 'War and Peace.' Participants can dress in period costumes and dance to the music of the era, creating a night to remember. The event offers a vivid impression of the grandeur and elegance typical of the nobility's social gatherings. Alongside dance, visitors can enjoy historical games, a four-course meal, and immersive performances to bring the atmosphere of the Tsarist era back to life. It serves as a unique and interactive way to experience Russian cultural heritage.

   Duration: 3-4 hours · Price: Around $150-300 USD

8. 8. 3D Panorama Exhibition on Russian History

   Gain a unique perspective on Russian history with a visit to the 3D Panorama Exhibition located near Palace Square. The exhibition utilizes state-of-the-art 3D technology to recreate pivotal moments in Russian history, offering a captivating and immersive storytelling experience. As visitors don 3D glasses, the exhibition brings historical battles, famous personalities, and significant events to life with stunning realism. This interactive venue presents not only a visual spectacle but also an educational opportunity, making it ideal for families and history enthusiasts.

   Duration: 1-1.5 hours · Price: Around $10-20 USD

9. 9. Palace Square Segway Tour

   Explore Palace Square and beyond with the thrill of a Segway tour, a modern and eco-friendly way to cover more ground without getting fatigued. This guided tour will lead you around the historic square and nearby landmarks, giving you the chance to admire the architecture and learn about the area's rich past. After a brief training session, participants can effortlessly glide through the city while the guide shares intriguing stories and facts. The Segway tour provides both excitement and education, making it a hit for visitors seeking a different touring experience.

   Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Around $30-50 USD

10. 10. Evening Light Show and Music Performance

    Spend an evening at Palace Square being entranced by a spectacular light show and music performance. This event typically takes place during city festivals or national holidays, combining modern light technology with classical and contemporary music to create a memorable experience. The façades of the Winter Palace and General Staff Building serve as a canvas for vibrant light projections, telling a story or celebrating an aspect of Russian culture. The event often concludes with a stunning fireworks display above the square, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.

    Duration: 1-1.5 hours · Price: Free or price varies depending on event