Saint Petersburg, Russia is an incredible city full of history, culture, and breathtaking sights. From its iconic churches and palaces to its vibrant nightlife and modern attractions, the city has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an exciting family vacation, here are the top 20 places to see in Saint Petersburg, Russia.
1. The Hermitage Museum
The Hermitage Museum is one of the world’s largest and most important art museums. Located in the heart of Saint Petersburg, the museum houses over three million works of art, including masterpieces by Da Vinci, Rembrandt, and Picasso. The collection spans centuries, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to modern art.
2. The Peter and Paul Fortress
The Peter and Paul Fortress is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Built in 1703, the fortress served as a prison and fortress for the city’s rulers. Today, it’s a popular tourist attraction, with its impressive architecture, cannons, and stunning views of the city.
3. The Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood
The Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood is one of the most beautiful churches in Saint Petersburg. Built in 1907, the church is decorated with over 7,000 square meters of mosaic tiles, making it one of the most impressive examples of Russian religious architecture.
4. The Mariinsky Theatre
The Mariinsky Theatre is one of the world’s most renowned opera and ballet venues. Built in 1860, the theatre has hosted some of the world’s most famous performances, including the world premiere of Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake.
5. The Summer Garden
The Summer Garden is one of the city’s most beautiful parks. Located on the banks of the Neva River, the garden features lush gardens, fountains, and sculptures. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of Saint Petersburg.
6. The Peterhof Palace
The Peterhof Palace is one of Russia’s most impressive palaces. Built between 1714 and 1725, the palace was the summer residence of the Russian tsars. Today, the palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features stunning Baroque architecture and gardens.
7. The State Russian Museum
The State Russian Museum is the largest museum of Russian art in the world. Located in the heart of Saint Petersburg, the museum houses over 400,000 works of art, including masterpieces by Russian artists such as Kandinsky, Repin, and Shishkin.
8. The Yusupov Palace
The Yusupov Palace is one of the city’s most impressive palaces. Built in the 18th century, the palace was the home of one of Russia’s wealthiest families. Today, the palace is a museum and features lavish interiors, beautiful gardens, and a theatre.
9. The St. Isaac’s Cathedral
The St. Isaac’s Cathedral is the largest Orthodox cathedral in Saint Petersburg. Built in 1858, the cathedral features a magnificent interior, with its gold-plated dome, marble columns, and intricate mosaics.
10. The Peter and Paul Cathedral
The Peter and Paul Cathedral is the oldest church in Saint Petersburg. Built in 1712, the cathedral is the burial site of the city’s rulers, including Peter the Great. The cathedral’s bell tower is the tallest building in the city.
11. The Kunstkamera
The Kunstkamera is the oldest museum in Saint Petersburg. Built in 1714, the museum houses the city’s natural history and ethnographic collections, including rare artifacts from around the world.
12. The Peterhof Grand Palace
The Peterhof Grand Palace is one of the most impressive palaces in Russia. Built between 1714 and 1725, the palace was the summer residence of the Russian tsars. Today, the palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features stunning Baroque architecture and gardens.
13. The Russian Vodka Museum
The Russian Vodka Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of vodka. Located in the heart of Saint Petersburg, the museum features a collection of over 500 varieties of vodka, as well as interactive exhibits and tastings.
14. The State Hermitage Museum
The State Hermitage Museum is one of the world’s largest and most important art museums. Located in the heart of Saint Petersburg, the museum houses over three million works of art, including masterpieces by Da Vinci, Rembrandt, and Picasso.
15. The Peterhof Fountains
The Peterhof Fountains are one of the city’s most famous attractions. Built in the 18th century, the fountains feature over 150 water jets, cascades, and sculptures. The fountains are a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
16. The Catherine Palace
The Catherine Palace is one of the most impressive palaces in Saint Petersburg. Built in 1717, the palace was the summer residence of the Russian tsars. Today, the palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features stunning Baroque architecture and gardens.
17. The Faberge Museum
The Faberge Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of jewelry. Located in the heart of Saint Petersburg, the museum features a collection of over 4,000 pieces of jewelry, including the famous Faberge eggs.
18. The Mariinsky Palace
The Mariinsky Palace is one of the city’s most impressive palaces. Built in the 18th century, the palace was the home of the Russian tsars. Today, the palace is a museum and features lavish interiors, beautiful gardens, and a theatre.
19. The Aurora Cruiser
The Aurora Cruiser is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Built in 1903, the cruiser is best known for its role in the Russian Revolution, when its crew fired a blank shot that signaled the start of the revolution. Today, the cruiser is a museum and is open to the public.
20. The Palace Square
The Palace Square is the largest square in Saint Petersburg. Built in the 18th century, the square features the Alexander Column, the General Staff Building, and the Winter Palace. The square is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.