Updated December 22, 2023
About St. Petersburg
Petersburg is a city in Russia founded by Tsar Peter the Great in 1703. It emerged as a strategic Baltic Sea port and the imperial capital until 1918. The town of St. Petersburg was designed as a cultural and architectural showcase. It is a witness to historic events such as the October Revolution. It was renamed Petrograd during World War I and was later changed to Leningrad; however, its glory was restored to St. Petersburg in 1991. Its rich history is evident in its palaces, museums, and canals, reflecting its enduring role in Russian heritage.
St. Petersburg is the seventh-largest city in Europe, trailing behind London, Paris, Moscow, Madrid, and Manchester. It is the northernmost city globally, with a population exceeding one million.
Climate of St. Petersburg
- Humid Continental Climate: Due to its location near the Baltic Sea, St. Petersburg has a humid continental climate.
- Distinct Seasons:
- Summers: Mild, with average temperatures of 15-25°C
- Winters: Cold, ranging from -6 to 2°C
Geography of St. Petersburg
- Location: Situated in the northwest of Russia, St. Petersburg is known for its northern location.
- River: Positioned on the delta of the Neva River, the city is surrounded by waterways and numerous islands.
- Waterways: The cityscape is characterized by canals, bridges, and architectural gems, contributing to its unique charm.
Best Places to Visit in St. Petersburg
Here is a List of the Best Tourist Attractions in St. Petersburg:
1. The State Hermitage Museum
The State Hermitage Museum, located in St. Petersburg, Russia, is a world-renowned cultural institution established in 1764. The works of art on display at the museum, including those by Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt, and Michelangelo, are among the finest in the world. The museum also offers insight into Russian history, culture, and imperial legacy, making it a global cultural treasure.
How to reach: Hermitage Museum is closest to the metro station Admiralteyskaya. You can also take a cab to the museum.
Best time to visit: Summer, from May to September
Things to do: Visit the museum, do photography, sightseeing
2. The Winter Palace
The Winter Palace, located in St. Petersburg, Russia, was the former residence of the Russian monarchs and is now a part of the State Hermitage Museum. This opulent palace boasts over 1,000 rooms and is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture.
How to reach: The Winter Palace is close to the Hermitage Museum and is most relative to the metro station Admiralteyskaya. You can also take a cab to the palace.
Best time to visit: Summer, from May to September
Things to do: Explore the luxurious rooms inside the Winter Palace and marvel at its magnificence and history.
3. The Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood
The magnificent Russian Orthodox cathedral, Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, stands on the spot in St. Petersburg, where Emperor Alexander II was assassinated in 1881. The cathedral’s intricate mosaic interiors and vibrant onion domes make it an actual work of art in Russian architecture, luring visitors from around the globe.
How to reach: Nevsky Prospekt metro station is the closest one. You may go there via taxi or cab as well.
Best time to visit: Summer, from May to September
Things to do: Admire the architecture, do photography, attend an event, enjoy white nights (June-July only)
4. St. Isaac’s Cathedral
The stunning Neoclassical building named St. Isaac’s Cathedral in St. Petersburg boasts an enormous golden dome and an impressive colonnade. Built in the 19th century, this cathedral is a testament to the grandeur of the Russian Empire and provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. This cathedral is designed to accommodate 14,000 standing worshipers. Its dome is plated with pure gold.
How to reach: Admiralteyskaya Station is the nearest metro station. The cathedral can also be called by scheduling a taxi.
Best time to visit: Summer, from May to September
Things to do: Climb to the Colonnade, do photography, attend concerts and prayer
5. Peter and Paul Fortress
Peter and Paul Fortress in St. Petersburg, Russia, was founded in 1703. It is a historic marvel on Zayachy Island. Here is the Peter and Paul Cathedral, which houses the Russian rulers’ tombs.
How to reach: Take the metro to Gorkovskaya Station or Sportivnaya Station. You can also book a ride via boat on the Neva River.
Best time to visit: Summer, from May to September
Things to do: Explore the fortress and its bastions. Enjoy views of the Neva River. Visit the tombs of Russian emperors.
6. The State Russian Museum
The State Russian Museum is home to a wide-ranging collection of Russian art, from ancient icons to contemporary pieces. The museum gives glimpses into the country’s artistic legacy, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts representing the richness of Russia across many ages.
How to reach: Take the metro, bus, trolleybus, taxi or cab.
Best time to visit: Summer, from May to September
Things to do: Sightseeing, photography, and admiring architecture
7. The Faberge Museum
The museum displays the exquisite works of jeweler Peter Carl Faberge, including the famous Faberge eggs. The museum is also well known for its stunning collection of other skillfully crafted masterpieces by the House of Faberge. The museum’s lavish exhibits showcase the delicate artistry and handiwork of the famous imperial Russian treasures, perfectly capturing the luxury and sophistication of the era.
How to reach: Take the metro, bus, trolleybus, taxi or cab.
Best time to visit: Summer, from May to September
Things to do: Explore the museum and marvel at exquisite Fabergé eggs, jewelry, and decorative arts showcasing exquisite craftsmanship.
8. The Mariinsky Theatre
The theatre is renowned for opera and ballet performances, displaying the country’s rich cultural legacy. It can accommodate more than 1500 viewers for each performance.
How to reach: Take the metro, bus, taxi or cab.
Best time to visit: September to July
Things to do: Attend the ballet performance
9. Nevsky Prospekt
The bustling Nevsky Prospekt avenue stretches for approximately 4.5 km in St. Petersburg. The street is lively and vibrant, providing a variety of stores, coffee shops, and theaters, which makes it a thriving hub for residents and a top destination for visitors.
How to reach: Accessible by metro—Nevsky Prospekt, Admiralteyskaya, or Gostiny Dvor, cab or taxi
Best time to visit: Summers for strolling and winters for festive decorations
Things to do: Shop, dine, Night Light concert
10. Summer Garden (Letniy Sad)
Summer Garden (Letniy Sad) is a peaceful oasis in the heart of St. Petersburg, Russia. It was established by Peter the Great in 1704 and boasts of its symmetrical layouts, vibrant flower beds, and classical sculptures. It remains a serene retreat, inviting locals and visitors to relish its timeless beauty.
How to reach: Accessible by metro—Admiralteyskaya or Gorkovskaya, cab
Best time to visit: Late May to early October
Things to do: Sightseeing, photography
11. Yusupov Palac
The Yusupov Palace was the residence of the Yusupov family, and later, it was a witness to several events, including the assassination of Grigori Rasputin. The palace’s rich history and architectural splendor make it a captivating destination for those exploring St. Petersburg’s cultural heritage.
How to reach: Accessible by metro – Sadovaya or Spasskaya stations, cab
Best time to visit: Summer, from May to September
Things to do: Explore the palace, sightseeing, photography
12. Mikhailovsky Castle
The castle of Mikhailovsky Castle is a significant architectural landmark constructed by Emperor Paul I in the late 18th century, resulting in a blend of diverse architectural styles. The castle also holds historical importance as the site of Paul I’s assassination in 1801. Its turbulent past and architectural grandeur make it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts
How to reach: Accessible by metro – Gostiny Dvor or Nevsky Prospekt stations, cab
Best time to visit: Spring and Summer
Things to do: Sightseeing, photography
13. The Russian Museum of Ethnography
The Museum of Ethnography is a cultural institution for preserving and showcasing Russia’s diverse ethnic traditions. It was founded in 1902 and boasts a vast collection of artifacts, costumes, and crafts representing various ethnic groups. The ethnographic research and education conducted by the museum make it a valuable resource for understanding the country’s cultural diversity and heritage.
How to reach: Accessible by metro, cab, and taxi
Best time to visit: Summer
Things to do: Sightseeing
14. The Kunstkamera
Founded by Peter the Great in 1714, the Kunstkamera is a museum with a rich history. Initially, its design was that of a cabinet of curiosities, but over time, it evolved into a comprehensive museum of anthropology and ethnography. The Kunstkamera has a distinctive blue building and an extensive collection of natural specimens, ethnographic artifacts, and scientific instruments. The museum also showcases the personal collection of abnormalities and anomalies of Peter the Great.
How to reach: Accessible by metro—Admiralteyskaya or Vasileostrovskaya stations, cab and taxi
Best time to visit: Summer
Things to do: Sightseeing
15. The Summer Palace of Peter the Great (Peterhof Palace)
It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that looks at Peter the Great’s and his successors’ lavish lifestyle. Peterhof Palace attracts visitors for its architectural grandeur, intricate interiors, and stunning gardens. It provides a look at Russia’s imperial past’s luxurious lifestyle.
How to reach: Accessible by metro—Admiralteyskaya or Vasileostrovskaya stations, cab and taxi
Best time to visit: Summer
Things to do: Sightseeing
16. Catherine Palace
Catherine Palace, situated in Tsarskoye Selo near St. Petersburg, is a masterpiece that served as a summer residence for the Russian monarchs. Empress Elizabeth commissioned the palace construction, which Catherine the Great later expanded. The palace has a striking blue and gold facade that is renowned. The Amber Room is significant—the highlight of the palace. World War II severely damaged the UNESCO-listed cultural gem, which underwent extensive restoration afterward and now draws visitors from across the globe.
How to reach: Take a train from St. Petersburg to Tsarskoye Selo or a taxi.
Best time to visit: Summer
Things to do: Sightseeing, photography
17. Pushkin (Tsarskoye Selo)
Pushkin, formerly Tsarskoye Selo, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an ancient town near St. Petersburg. It is known for its magnanimous palaces and picturesque landscapes. The Catherine Palace, a significant town attraction, houses the world-famous Amber Room, embellished with a distinctive blue and gold facade. Another imperial residence, The Alexander Palace, also offers an intimate glimpse into Russian royal life.
How to reach: Take a train from Vitebsky Station, or you could take a taxi
Best time to visit: Summer
Things to do: Sightseeing, photography. You can immerse yourself in Russian history and architecture.
18. The State Museum of the History of St. Petersburg
Founded in 1703 by Peter the Great, the State Museum of History tells the tales of the city’s evolution from its origin. The museum features masterpieces, documents, artworks, and interactive displays. Visitors can dive into the city’s diverse past, explore events, and learn about social changes and cultural shifts. The captivating journey of the Russian town of St. Petersburg is exhibited through engaging media.
How to reach: Accessible by metro – Gostiny Dvor or Nevsky Prospekt, or take a taxi or bus.
Best time to visit: Summer
Things to do: Explore the museum and learn about the history of St. Petersburg from the documents that shed light on the city’s historical development and evolution.
19. St. Petersburg Metro
St. Petersburg Metro is renowned for its architectural grandeur. The metro stations showcase intricate designs, mosaics, and sculptures, making the metro a unique cultural experience. Apart from the aesthetics, the metro plays a vital role in facilitating urban mobility with modern amenities like electronic ticketing.
How to reach: Any metro station. Use a metro map to navigate
Best time to visit: Anytime
Things to do: Experience a cultural ride on St. Petersburg’s metro.
Conclusion
St. Petersburg is a city of captivating tourist attractions showcasing Russia’s rich history and artistic grandeur. From the State Hermitage Museum’s extravagance to the poignant history of the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, all the landmarks in this city are masterpieces that beckon visitors. The canals of St. Petersburg weave tales of bygone eras, and the majestic St. Isaac’s Cathedral stands as a testament to architectural brilliance. It is a city that invites you to explore its enchanting blend of history, art, and charm.
Recommended Articles
We hope this EDUCBA information on “Tourist Attractions St. Petersburg” benefited you. You can view EDUCBA’s
recommended articles for more information.
