Top 10 Attractions in St. Petersburg

1. Hermitage Museum

The Hermitage Museum is one of the world’s largest and oldest museums, housing over 3 million works of art and artifacts. Located in the lavish Winter Palace, it showcases a diverse collection ranging from ancient Egyptian antiquities to Impressionist masterpieces.

2. Peter and Paul Fortress

The Peter and Paul Fortress is a historic landmark and the founding site of St. Petersburg. Built in the early 18th century, it houses the Peter and Paul Cathedral, where many Russian tsars and tsarinas are buried. The fortress also offers stunning views of the city from its ramparts.

3. Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood

This magnificent church is a masterpiece of Russian architecture and an iconic symbol of St. Petersburg. Adorned with vibrant mosaics, the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood was built on the exact spot where Emperor Alexander II was assassinated in 1881.

4. St. Isaac’s Cathedral

With its distinctive golden dome, St. Isaac’s Cathedral is one of the largest domed cathedrals in the world. Visitors can climb to the colonnade for panoramic views of the city, or explore the grand interior filled with stunning mosaics, sculptures, and religious art.

5. State Russian Museum

Focusing exclusively on Russian art, the State Russian Museum boasts an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. It offers a comprehensive overview of Russian artistic achievements, including works by renowned artists such as Repin, Kandinsky, and Malevich.

6. Peterhof Palace and Gardens

Often referred to as the “Russian Versailles,” the Peterhof Palace and Gardens is a spectacular imperial palace complex located on the Gulf of Finland. The highlight is the stunning Grand Cascade of fountains that cascades down towards the Baltic Sea.

7. Mariinsky Theatre

The Mariinsky Theatre is a world-renowned opera and ballet theater, staging performances by the esteemed Mariinsky Ballet and Opera Company. Its opulent interiors and exceptional acoustics make it a must-visit for lovers of classical arts.

8. Fabergé Museum

The Fabergé Museum houses an impressive collection of decorative and jeweled eggs created by the House of Fabergé. These intricate masterpieces were originally crafted for the Russian imperial family and are now displayed in a beautifully restored 18th-century palace.

9. Catherine Palace and Amber Room

Located in the town of Pushkin, just outside St. Petersburg, the Catherine Palace is a magnificent Baroque-style royal residence. The highlight of the palace is the incomparable Amber Room, a chamber covered in amber panels, mirrors, and gold leaf.

10. Nevsky Prospekt

Nevsky Prospekt is the main avenue and heartbeat of St. Petersburg. Lined with historic buildings, shops, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past and present. The avenue also connects many of the city’s major attractions.