The 12 must-do things in Saint Petersburg

Le Palais de l'Hermitage, located in Saint Petersburg, Russia, is renowned for its historical and cultural significance. It houses the famous Hermitage Museum, one of the largest and oldest art museums in the world, with an impressive collection of artworks and historical artifacts.

The palace itself is a stunning example of imperial Russian architecture, originally constructed under Tsar Peter the Great and expanded over the centuries. It includes several buildings, with the Winter Palace being the primary residence of the Russian tsars.

The museum's collection features masterpieces by European artists such as Rembrandt, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci, as well as ancient artifacts and Asian art collections. It is a must-visit destination for art and history enthusiasts.

The Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood (Spas na Krovi) is one of Saint Petersburg's most photographed landmarks, instantly recognisable by its colourful Old-Russian-style onion domes along the Griboedov Canal.

It was built between 1883 and 1907 on the orders of Alexander III, on the exact spot where his father, Tsar Alexander II, was fatally wounded in an assassination on 1 (13) March 1881 — hence its name. The interior is entirely covered with mosaics over an area of about 7,500 m², among the largest mosaic ensembles in the world.

Deconsecrated in the Soviet era and later restored, it now operates as a museum of mosaics, part of the State Museum complex of St Isaac's Cathedral.

Peterhof Palace, often called the "Russian Versailles", is a vast palace complex founded by Peter the Great in the early 18th century, about thirty kilometres west of Saint Petersburg on the Baltic coast.

It is world-famous for its richly decorated Grand Palace and above all for its gardens and the Grand Cascade, a spectacular array of fountains and gilded sculptures. A remarkable engineering feature: the fountains run by gravity, with no mechanical pump. The estate also includes the more intimate Monplaisir Palace by the sea.

Peterhof is part of the UNESCO World Heritage ensemble. The fountains only run in the warm season, generally from late spring to mid-October.

St Isaac's Cathedral is one of Saint Petersburg's most iconic landmarks. Designed by architect Auguste de Montferrand in the neoclassical style and completed in 1858 after forty years of construction, it is renowned for its gilded dome rising about 101.5 metres, its marble and granite columns, and its interior of mosaics and frescoes.

Converted into a museum after the Russian Revolution, it operates today mainly as a museum, with religious services held occasionally on major feast days. Climbing the colonnade encircling the dome offers one of the finest panoramas over the historic centre.

Catherine Palace, is a stunning historic palace located in Tsarskoye Selo, near St. Petersburg, Russia. It was originally built in the early 18th century and later expanded and remodeled under the guidance of Empress Elizabeth and Catherine the Great. The palace is renowned for its opulent Baroque architecture and lavish interiors.

One of the most famous features of the palace is the Amber Room, which was famously adorned with amber panels and gold leaf. The original Amber Room was lost during World War II, but efforts have been made to reconstruct it faithfully.

The palace is set within beautiful gardens and serves as a popular tourist attraction, showcasing the grandeur of Russian imperial history

The Peter and Paul Fortress is a historic fortress located in Saint Petersburg, Russia. Established in the early 18th century, it is one of the city's iconic landmarks. Built on Hare Island (Zayachy Ostrov) in the Neva River, the fortress was designed by architect Domenico Trezzini at the behest of Peter the Great.

Initially, it served as a defense against Swedish attacks and played a crucial role in the founding and development of Saint Petersburg. Today, the fortress houses several museums, including the Museum of the History of Saint Petersburg, and is also known for its Peter and Paul Cathedral, which serves as the burial place for many Russian tsars.

The fortress is an important symbol of Russian history and culture, offering a fascinating glimpse into the imperial era and the early days of Saint Petersburg.

The Mariinsky Theatre is one of the world's most prestigious opera and ballet houses. Its historic building, designed by architect Alberto Cavos, opened in 1860; the stage premiered works by Tchaikovsky and launched the careers of major figures of Russian ballet.

The theatre is home to the Mariinsky Ballet and Opera companies, among the most respected in the world. A modern second building, Mariinsky II, opened in 2013 next to the historic hall.

Yusupov Palace, is a historic building located in St. Petersburg, Russia. It was originally built in the early 19th century and became the residence of the wealthy Yusupov family, one of the most prominent aristocratic families in Russia. The palace is renowned for its opulent design and luxurious interiors, which reflect the grandeur of Russian nobility during that era.

One of the most notable events associated with the Yusupov Palace is the assassination of Grigori Rasputin, the controversial mystic and confidant of the Russian royal family. In December 1916, the palace was the site of Rasputin's murder, which was orchestrated by Prince Felix Yusupov and other conspirators who opposed Rasputin's influence over the Russian court.

The palace is also known for its stunning architecture, including its Baroque-style façade and richly decorated interiors. Today, it functions as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Russian aristocracy and the historical events that transpired within its walls.

A canal cruise in Saint Petersburg offers a magical way to explore the city from a unique perspective. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of this experience:

1. Main Canals: The most famous canals are the Griboedov Canal and the Moika Canal. These canals run through the historic center of the city and provide stunning views of historical buildings and landmarks.
2. Cruises: Many tour companies offer various cruise options, ranging from short 1 to 2-hour trips to longer cruises with meals included. There are also evening cruises that showcase the city’s nighttime illuminations.
3. Points of Interest: While cruising, you’ll pass by notable sights such as the Winter Palace, the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, and Palace Square. It’s a pleasant way to see these landmarks while enjoying the tranquility of the water.
4. Best Time to Go: The ideal time for a canal cruise is during the summer months, from May to September, when the weather is pleasant and the days are long. Saint Petersburg’s “White Nights,” from late June to early July, offer particularly spectacular evenings with almost continuous daylight.
5. Practical Tips: - Clothing: Dress according to the weather, and bring a windbreaker or jacket in case of a breeze. - Camera: Don’t forget your camera to capture the beautiful views. - Booking: It’s often recommended to book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.

A canal cruise not only provides a different perspective on the city's landmarks but also offers a peaceful escape from the bustling urban environment.

The Summer Garden in Saint Petersburg is one of the city's oldest and most famous gardens. Established in the early 18th century by Peter the Great, it is situated along the Fontanka River. The garden is renowned for its beautiful marble sculptures, elegant fountains, and exquisite flower beds.

Originally designed in a baroque style, the garden features decorative stone elements and winding pathways. Over the years, it has undergone several renovations and changes, but it still retains its historic charm. Today, the Summer Garden offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the bustling city, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll while enjoying the beauty of the architecture and landscape, and immersing oneself in the history of Saint Petersburg.

Pavlovsk Palace is a stunning palace located in Pavlovsk, a town in the Leningrad region of Russia, about 30 kilometers south of Saint Petersburg. It was built between 1782 and 1786 for Grand Duke Paul I and his wife, Grand Duchess Maria Fedorovna, on the grounds of their summer residence.

The palace is a prime example of neoclassical architecture, with elegant design and richly decorated interiors. It is surrounded by an extensive landscaped park, also designed by renowned architects and landscape designers of the time, featuring both French formal gardens and English landscape elements.

Pavlovsk Palace is renowned for its frescoes, sculptures, and art objects that reflect the refined taste of its early inhabitants. During World War II, the palace was severely damaged but was carefully restored after the war.

Today, Pavlovsk Palace is a popular tourist attraction and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site. It is celebrated for its beauty and history, offering a fascinating glimpse into the aristocratic life of 18th-century Russia.

Krestovsky Island is a fascinating destination located in Saint Petersburg, Russia. It lies in the Neva River delta and is known for its green spaces and recreational facilities.

Here are some highlights you might explore during your visit:

1. Krestovsky Park: This is one of the largest parks in the city, perfect for relaxing, taking a walk, or having a picnic. It features numerous trails, lakes, and playgrounds for children.
2. Gazprom Arena Stadium: If you're a sports enthusiast, you might want to visit the football stadium where Zenit Saint Petersburg plays. The venue also hosts concerts and major events.
3. Botanical Garden: A lovely place to admire a wide variety of plants and flowers. It’s a great spot to unwind and enjoy nature.
4. Recreation Park: The island has facilities for various sports and outdoor activities, such as cycling, jogging, and water sports.
5. Krestovsky Bridge: This picturesque bridge offers charming views of the surroundings and is a pleasant spot for taking photos.

Krestovsky Island is an excellent place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city while enjoying beautiful nature and various recreational activities.