The State Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg is one of the largest and oldest museums in the world. It was founded in 1764 by Catherine the Great and has been open to the public since 1852. Its collections comprise over three million items, including the largest collection of paintings in the world. Visitors can marvel at works by Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Michelangelo, Rembrandt, and many other masters. The Hermitage's architecture is also a sight to behold, with the Winter Palace being its most famous building. Exploring the vast expanse of the museum will take you through a journey of art history from Ancient Egypt to the early 20th century. The experience is not only educational but also aesthetically captivating.
Located in the small town of Tsarskoye Selo, just 25 kilometers south of Saint Petersburg, the Catherine Palace and Park is a magnificent example of Russian baroque architecture. Named after Catherine I, wife of Peter the Great, the palace is most famous for its Amber Room, adorned with several tons of carefully crafted amber panels backed with gold leaf and mirrors. The exterior is painted a bright blue and decorated with white and gold ornamental designs. The grounds of the palace are equally captivating, featuring beautifully landscaped gardens and various classical follies. This palace is a testament to the grandeur of imperial Russia and offers insights into the luxurious lifestyle of the tsars.
The Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood is one of Saint Petersburg's most iconic landmarks. It stands on the site where Emperor Alexander II was fatally wounded in 1881. Built between 1883 and 1907, the church is a showcase of medieval Russian architecture in the spirit of romantic nationalism. Its dazzling interior is adorned with over 7,500 square meters of intricate mosaics—depicting biblical scenes and figures—covering the walls and ceilings, making it one of the largest mosaic collections in Europe. It's a monument that serves as a historical encapsulation of Russian artistic talent and dedication. Not to be missed, this tour offers a profound understanding of Russia's past and the turnaround from imperial history towards its revolutionary fate.
Often referred to as 'The Russian Versailles', Peterhof Palace is an imperial estate located on the southern shore of the Gulf of Finland. Founded by Peter the Great in the early 18th century, this sprawling complex features a series of palaces, gardens, and a collection of fountains unrivaled anywhere in the world. The Grand Cascade is the most famous fountain and serves as a truly spectacular centerpiece. On a guided tour of Peterhof, visitors can explore the opulent interiors of the Grand Palace, stroll through the meticulously maintained gardens and witness the grandeur of the fountain system, supplied by natural springs and requiring no pumps. It's a living testament to Peter the Great's ambition to make Russia a maritime power and show the world the might of his empire.
A cruise down the Neva River offers a unique perspective on Saint Petersburg's historic sites and architecture. Get onboard one of the many tour boats and glide past the imperial city's famous landmarks, such as the Winter Palace, the Bronze Horseman, and the Peter and Paul Fortress, as well as under some of the city's picturesque bridges. This aquatic excursion provides a serene environment to view the city and understand its layout, all from the comfortable vantage point of the Neva's waters. Marvel at the architectural grandeur and the reflections of the city in the water as you learn about the city's history. This option is great for those who want to experience the city in a leisurely manner and take in the sights without the bustle of the crowded streets.
The Fabergé Museum, located in the Shuvalov Palace in Saint Petersburg, is the first private museum in Russia dedicated to the decorative arts. It boasts a vast collection of Fabergé eggs, the most extensive one can see under a single roof. These eggs, made by the legendary jeweler Karl Fabergé for the Russian imperial family, feature intricate designs and are encrusted with jewels. Each one is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and luxury. The museum's collection also includes other Russian decorative arts. A private tour will give visitors an exclusive and detailed look at the items on display, delving into their history and the stories of their creation. This museum is a must-visit for those interested in Russian art and the extravagance of the Russian imperial court.
St. Isaac's Cathedral is one of the most imposing architectural fixtures of Saint Petersburg's skyline. The cathedral, dedicated to Saint Isaac of Dalmatia, took 40 years to construct, and it features a neoclassical exterior with a fully gold-plated main dome. This tour offers a fascinating trip up to the colonnade around the dome, providing one of the best panoramic views over Saint Petersburg. Inside, marvel at the opulent and grandiose interior, including stunning mosaics, paintings, and columns made of malachite and lapis lazuli. The dome tour is an athletic endeavor but one that is rewarded with a breathtaking perspective that can't be found elsewhere. It's a glimpse into the architectural ambition of Tsarist Russia and a poignant spot for reflective moments looking over the city.
Watching a ballet at the Mariinsky Theatre is an unforgettable experience, and a visit to Saint Petersburg wouldn't be complete without it. The theatre has been home to the Russian ballet for centuries, and it has seen the premieres of many of the world's greatest operas and ballets. The interior of the theatre is a magnificent example of classical architecture, and the performances are of the highest quality, featuring world-renowned dancers and musical scores played by a live orchestra. The tireless dedication and unparalleled skill of the performers transport audiences into the narrative on stage. There's no better way to immerse oneself in Russian culture than to spend an evening at the Mariinsky, indulging in the visual and auditory splendor of classical ballet or opera.
Nevsky Prospekt is the main street of Saint Petersburg and the commercial and social heart of the city. Stretching for 4.5 kilometers, this bustling thoroughfare is lined with historic buildings, shops, restaurants, and cultural sights. A walk here can take you through the veins of the city, revealing its dynamic and living history. Visitors can admire the impressive facades of the Kazan Cathedral and the Singer House, or pop into some of the side streets to discover small bookshops, cozy cafés, and unique boutiques. Whether you're interested in architecture, shopping, sampling local cuisine, or simply people-watching, Nevsky Prospekt offers a slice of Saint Petersburg life that's essential for any traveler looking to understand the city.
The Peter and Paul Fortress is not only the original citadel of Saint Petersburg, founded by Peter the Great in 1703, but also the resting place of many Russian emperors and empresses. Located on Hare Island along the banks of the Neva River, the fortress is a historical center that has played a significant role in the city's past. It houses several museums and the Peter and Paul Cathedral, with its striking 122.5 meters high bell-tower and iconic angel weathervane. The fortress is also known for its political prison, Trubetskoy Bastion, where key political figures were incarcerated over the centuries. In addition to its cultural significance, the fortress walls offer panoramic views across the Neva to the Winter Palace and the Saint Petersburg skyline—a chance for contemplation about the city's compelling history and evolution.
