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Tourist guide: what to do and see in Saint Petersburg
At the feet of Peter the Great
Saint Petersburg is the second most important city in Russia, just behind Moscow. Changing its name several times –to Petrograd, Leningrad then back to Saint Petersburg-, from the times of the USSR it has emerged as the most Western-influenced city in the region. It has witnessed numerous historic events that have left their mark on its streets: the Russian Revolution or the Second World War to name but two. Its historical centre, with the Nevsky Prospekt Avenue, has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is just one of the many great things to see in the city. A visit to the Hermitage Museum, a ride on the deepest metro in the world, a trip to the opera or the ballet or a stroll around the Peterhoff gardens are all unforgettable experiences.
- Sights
- Shopping
- Leisure
- Dining
- Open air
- Museum
- Sights
- Shopping
- Leisure
- Dining
- Open air
- Museum
Saint Petersburg Porcelain
Who hasn't heard of Saint Petersburg porcelain? The Lomonosov range is the best you can get!
World famous.
If you're after something typical from the city, look no further than Saint Petersburg porcelain. Founded in 1744 by Empress Elizabeth, the daughter of Peter I, the Lomonosov factory was the first porcelain factory in Saint Petersburg and today it is still one of the most prestigious brands in the world. Saint Petersburg porcelain can be seen on display at the Hermitage Museum, the British Museum in London or the Metropolitan in New York. Together with English and German collections, Russian porcelain is one of the most famous in the world and it has always featured in royal palaces. Russian porcelain is usually hand painted and made using traditional techniques. The most famous design from the Lomonosov factory is the Cobalt Net pattern, which you'll find in shops all over the city.
Parfionova
This dressmaker from Saint Petersburg is making waves in the world of haute couture. Come and find out why!
Exclusive boutique on Nevsky Prospekt.
Russian fashion is quietly preparing to take the international scene by storm. Tatiana Parfionova was the first designer from Saint Petersburg to build her own house of fashion back in the 1990's, at a time when any trends from Milan or Paris were swiftly rejected. This boutique displays and sells Parfionova's own designs and is located at no. 51 on the never-ending Nevsky Prospekt avenue. You can also see and buy eye-catching Prêt-à-porter clothing or Parfionova's famous crimson scarfs. The prices won't suit everyone, but it is still worth popping in for a look at this Russian designer's stunning creations.
Kisselenko Salon
Step inside this exclusive boutique and discover the latest creations from Russian designer Lilia Kisselenko.
Russia's most expensive fashion.
Kisselenko Salon is an elegant city-centre boutique just 7 minutes from the Chernyshevskaya metro. It sells exclusive clothing and accessories by fashion designer Lilia Kisselenko. Her designs have a strong linear and conceptual, yet very feminine, feel to them with a sensitive and mysterious touch. Although Kisselenko is not that well known internationally, she is slowly making a name for herself within the world of Russian fashion. She uses many shades of black and white: two staple colours in any wardrobe. This is an ideal place to buy local designer clothes that are very different from stereotypical Russian fashion with understated colours and innovative fabrics. Lilia Kisselenko has another shop in the city called Defile and if you are lucky, you might find the designer herself at one of her shops.
Sweeter
A high-quality second-hand shop with a very interesting range of products.
Western inspiration.
Second-hand shops are all the rage in Russia, whether because the clothes on offer are always unique or simply because the prices are so good. Sweeter is a second-hand shop loosely inspired by Western culture. The shop is very well presented and the clothes are generously spaced out. It sells women's clothing and focuses on fun, feminine pieces which add a touch of personality to each outfit. Within the world of second-hand shops, with their various levels, differences and distinctive qualities, Sweeter definitely classifies as a high-quality shop. It also has a small accessories section and sometimes hosts talks on fashion.
Spasibo
A second-hand shop with a difference where you'll find a bit of everything.
Don't forget the entry code!
Spasibo is a shop with a difference... it doesn't sell souvenirs but you could find something here that would make an excellent reminder of the city. At the end of the day, it would be something from Saint Petersburg and from a very unique shop. The idea for this shop came about when the owner saw the wide variety of second-hand and charity shops in Europe. So they decided to open one in Saint Petersburg where people can bring old clothes and other belongings and exchange them or buy any item for between 10 and 500 roubles (0.20-11 euros). Spasibo could be described as a second-hand shop which sells or exchanges vintage clothes, books, toys and other curious items that you won't find anywhere else. The shop is at 22 9-ya Sovetskaya ul. (code for the front door: 136) and the nearest metro is Vosstaniya Square.
Banya Concept
Be ready for a big dose of creativity and individual style at this multi-brand shop selling clothing, accessories, shoes and more.
One of a kind.
Banya Concept is a creative and unique shop or concept store showcasing a number of brands. You'll find a range of clothes, shoes and accessories (hats, sunglasses...) by different brands and they also sell second-hand clothes and retro clothing from Asia, Scandinavia and Russia. Keep an eye out for some of the more unusual items such as masks made from vinyl disks, outlandish sunglasses, mini-sculptures and lomographic cameras, to name but a few. If you find so many concepts and clothes a little overwhelming, take a break on the comfy sofa and a soothing browse through the free magazines. You won't find anything traditional souvenirs here but it is great for snapping up some unusual clothing. Banya Concept is next to the river and the nearest metro is Obvodnyy Kanal.
Untsiya Tea Shop
A magical, unique place with a huge range of teas and a pretty tearoom at the back of the shop.
Tea time!
You'll find this teashop with its beautiful window displays and wooden furnishings not far from the Mayakovskaya metro. It is the ideal place for buying a special, unique gift with its gourmet range of Asian, European and fruit teas, priced between 64 and 250 roubles (1.5-6 euros). Best of all, there is a little hidden-away tearoom behind the shop serving over 100 different types of tea. Untsiya is a truly charming place and one of the best teashops in the whole city. Untsiya actually means ounce and all the teas, whether leaf or flower, are sold by this measure.
Gostiny Dvor
History and shopping under one roof! This monumental project took 28 years to build and is a must for shopping in Saint Petersburg.
Iconic shopping centre.
Standing outside this building, you won't believe you are in front of a shopping centre (the most famous and historic in the whole city). This impressive yellow-coloured complex looks more like a museum or a symbolic building than a shopping centre. As well as being one of the largest and oldest shopping centres in the city, it was also one of the first in the world with arcades. Inside, you'll find over 100 shops that are perfect for buying gifts, treats or simply taking a look around. Interestingly, this shopping centre, which took 28 years to build, has its very own metro station with the same name. Designed in a neoclassical style by Jean-Baptiste Vallin de la Mothe, it was commissioned by Empresses Elizabeth and finished in 1785.
Sennaya Square
Ready to discover the real hustle and bustle of the city? This square has cheap shopping, markets and big crowds at any time of the day.
Central and popular.
In days gone by, this was a very busy market square where people would come to buy firewood, hay or livestock. Some things change over time but others always stay the same and this is certainly the case with this central square near the Sadovaya metro. It is still a very popular shopping area with various shopping centres, street-side shops and kiosks selling traditional Russian sweets and a food and clothes market. If you’re looking for luxury goods then this isn't the place for you; in fact, it is a whole world away from the shops and boutiques on Nevsky Prospekt. This is a chaotic and crowded celebration of cheap clothes and food with its own special charm, making it a must when visiting the city.
Nevsky Prospekt Avenue
Saint Petersburg's star avenue: shops, restaurants, museums, libraries, nightlife... this street has it all!
4 fundamental kilometres.
All big cities have their main shopping street and in Saint Petersburg you'll find Nevsky Prospekt: a 4-kilometre avenue for those who fancy a bit of shopping. There are plenty of shops, bookshops, cafes and restaurants, in addition to some more cultural offerings like museums or the Russian National Library (one of the largest in the city). In the past, it was said to be one of the only areas of the city that was not controlled by the ruling political powers and it was the only place where bohemians, nobles, artisans and marginalised persons lived side by side. By day it is a bustling shopping area and by night it becomes a wonderland of fun and entertainment. In fact, visiting this avenue by night is a great way to experience its unique charm.
Russian Museum of Ethnography
This place will transport you to daily life in Russia in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Inside Russia.
The idea of studying the lives of ordinary people to gain a greater understanding of any culture is the premise of this museum dedicated to everyday life in 19th- and 20th-century Russia. The collection includes craft from across the centuries, tradition clothing and popular art. The closest metro is Gostiny Dvor or Nevsky Prospekt. This museum is also home to an impressive ethnography library, religious artefacts, woodwork, ironwork and even some typical Russian buildings such as an igloo, a yurt or a chum. Adult entry costs around 350 roubles (8 euros) and you can also visit the treasure rooms for an additional 250 roubles (just under 6 euros). The museum is closed on Mondays and the last Friday of each month.
Peter and Paul Fortress
The star attraction at this fortress is the daily firing of the cannons at noon and midnight. Time your visit to catch the show.
Bang Bang Bang!
Peter the Great created this fortress in 1703 to protect the city from a fleet of Swedish warships. The fortress itself is not that impressive as it isn't very big and its military significance was lost before it was even finished. However, it was used as a prison for two hundred years and boasts a string of famous inmates including Alexei (the son of Peter I) and even Dostoevsky. Perhaps the highlight of the fortress is the firing of the canons at 12 noon and at midnight or when it threatens to flood (very interesting). There are a couple of gas laboratory museums inside the fortress with Space-related artefacts, among other pieces, and the Peter and Paul Cathedral, at the centre of the fortress, is also well worth a visit.
Museum of Bread
A museum with an unusual proposal: a journey through the history of bread. Actually really interesting!
Beloved bread.
It might seem a bit strange that Saint Petersburg would have a museum dedicated to bread. However, it isn't that odd when you think that bread has been a staple part of our diet since prehistoric times. Wondering what you might actually see here? This museum takes you back to the very origins of bread, explains how the Ancient Egyptians baked bread and covers the production of bread over the course of Russian history. You can also see the machines used to make bread in the soviet era and the 250-gram rations. It can't hurt to learn a bit more about something most of us eat on a daily basis and you're sure to be in for a few surprises. Adult entry costs around 100 roubles (2 euros) and the museum is open Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 16:00. The closest metro is Vosstaniya Square.
Dostoevsky Apartment Museum
Dostoyevsky wrote Crime and Punishment in this house. The suggested route is rather long but very interesting.
Long live Russia's literary greats!
Saint Petersburg is home to the museum apartments of some of the greatest names in Russian literature. The famous Russian writer Fyodor Dostoyevsky has also been honoured by the city with a museum in what was his house from 1878 until his death in 1881. The museum is closed on Mondays and the last Wednesday of each month and the nearest metro is Dostoevskaya. It can be found at 7 Kaznacheyskaya and is where Dostoyevsky wrote his masterpiece Crime and Punishment. To take a good look around the rooms where he worked, his living quarters and the occasional temporary exhibition of contemporary art, we recommend allowing 1-2 hours to visit this museum apartment. Remember that although the museum is easy to find, the entrance is at street level down a short flight of steps.
Museum of Erotica
Rumour has it that Rasputin's penis is on display here. Find out for yourself at this museum with a difference.
Really?
Everyone must have at least heard of Rasputin, but very few actually know who he was. Rasputin was a Russian mystic who came to have a great deal of influence over the Romanov dynasty. You are probably asking yourself what Rasputin has to do with an erotic museum... the truth is rather a lot. Rasputin's penis is supposedly displayed at this museum and has become the star attraction among visitors from all over the world. Opening in May 2004, this was the first sex museum in Russia, where you'll find a collection of erotic paintings, sculptures and artefacts. It is near the Chernyshevskaya metro station (next to the Neva River) in the city centre and is open all day from 08:00 to 21:30. It makes for an interesting visit and an unusual twist to your average sightseeing tour.
Pushkin Apartment Museum
Are you a fan of Pushkin? If so, don't miss out on a trip to where he used to live.
In memoriam.
This literary museum is in what was the house of one of Russia's most celebrated poets, Alexander Pushkin. Just a stone's throw from the Moika River, Pushkin lived here between 1836 and 1837. Entry costs 200 roubles (just under 5 euros) and it is closed on Tuesdays and the last Friday of each month. The audio-guides are not very expensive and give you the chance to hear some of the poems written by this Russian master. The collection includes various artefacts that actually belonged to Pushkin and his family, such as his notes and manuscripts or the desk where he worked. The museum opened back in 1925 and the house was restored in 1987. This is the only place in the city dedicated entirely to Pushkin.
Stieglitz Museum of Applied Arts
Undiscovered by many, this museum is a real treasure in every sense of the word. If you can, it is not to be missed.
Art and antiques.
This museum really is worth a visit. It is a hidden gem that never fails to impress visitors with its beauty, both inside and out. It is very close to the Mikhailovsky Castle but is not often included on more traditional sightseeing routes. Although the museum was first created to give classes to Russian artists, today it is the perfect place for anyone interested in art and antiquities. The broad-ranging collection includes metalwork, porcelain and decorative arts. The entrance is at 13 Solyanoy Pereulok Street. You go up a flight of stairs, turn right, go along the corridor and down the narrow staircase on the left. The main entrance to the museum is on the bottom floor of the building. Finding it can be quite a task, but with these instructions you can't go wrong. Entry costs around 60 roubles (1.5 euros).
Kunstkamera
A great option if only for its amazing location on the University Embankment opposite the Winter Palace.
Unusual collection.
This was the first museum in Russia. When Peter the Great ordered the doctor Robert Areskin to move his private collections and library from Moscow to Saint Petersburg, it marked the beginnings of the first State museum in Russia, the Kunstkamera, which opened beside the Neva River in 1729. The Czar's unusual collections included chemistry and physics equipment, bottled reptiles, insects and fish and the Imperial Library, which was transferred to the Summer Palace by Peter the Great. From 1879, the Hermitage has also included the Museum of Anthropology and Ethnography of Peter the Great, with over 2 million works. It can be found on the University Embankment, opposite the Winter Palace.
Hermitage Museum
Welcome to a museum that spans no less than 5 interconnected buildings. Well worth a visit!
You won't know where to start.
This is a magnificent museum which fills five interconnected buildings: the new Hermitage, the old Hermitage, the small Hermitage, the Hermitage Theatre and the Winter Palace (the official residence of the Czars of Russia). Even if you don't go inside, the interconnected buildings are worth a look in themselves. The Hermitage collection includes over 3 million pieces from sculptures and illustrations to archaeological finds. The highlights of this museum include the prehistoric art, ancient art, Western European art, Oriental art and Russian art. There is also a section on numismatics, with ancient medals and coins, and the Treasure Gallery, which is probably the most popular of the entire collection. The gallery is divided into two sections: the gold rooms and the diamond rooms.
State Russian Museum
This museum should satisfy even the most insatiable art fans with its collection of over 400,000 works!
Immense.
This is the first state museum in Saint Petersburg in terms of Russian art. Commissioned in 1895 by Czar Nicholas II, it didn’t official open until 1898. Today, the museum exhibits a large collection of art while also serving as a famous restauration centre, research centre and one of the largest education centres in Russia. If you like painting and sculpture then you won't want to miss this museum with over 400,000 pieces dedicated to Russian artists. The collection dates from the 18th to the 20th century, with work by artists such as Fidelio Bruni or Aivzovsky through to the likes of Rylov, Fomin or Ossovsky. The museum is next to the Summer Gardens, which are also worth a visit and offer free entry, while the normal entry price for the museum is 8 euros.
Vitebsky Railway Station
Art Nouveau style, semi-circular windows and a pseudo-renaissance dome. Intrigued?
Very old, very impressive.
This was the first railway station built in the city and in the entire Russian Empire. Located on Zagorodny Avenue, it was officially opened on 30 October 1837 by Czar Nicholas I. Konstantin Thon, who was the official Imperial architect during the reign of Nicholas I, was responsible for its design.
Yelagin Island
A trip to this island is a must for its beautiful walks, impressive palace or the Kirov park.
Small but interesting.
Next to the Neva River, you'll find yet another island. Sometimes the city's islands are so close together you can almost jump between them. Yelagin Island is the smallest of the Kirov Islands. Before the city was founded, this island was home to a colony of fishermen. It then became a popular retreat for the ruling classes. As with most land, it was passed from hand to hand until being acquired by Ivan Yelagin in the 18th century, who began work on the palace that still stands here today. Since then, the island has been named after him, although it used to be known as Melgnov Island. In addition to the palace and the splendid walks around this island, you can also visit Kirov Park.
Kirov Park
Lose yourself in the lush greenery of this park on Yelagin island; a great option in summer or winter.
Green, how I want you green.
If you are a fan of green sightseeing and you enjoy a bit of park culture, there are plenty of parks and gardens in Saint Petersburg, with the Kirov Park being top of the list. Located on Yelagin Island, where you'll find the palace of the same name, Kirov Park is really popular with people from the city, who flock here at weekends or on any sunny day. Construction began in 1931 and part of the park was opened to the public the following year. Kirov Park is splendid at any time of year, whether in summer with the rich colours of its plants and trees or in winter with its ice rink. If you are visiting in winter, you can also hire skis and explore the rest of the island on its frozen lakes and rivers.
Kamenny Island
You'll be amazed at the huge mansions on this VIP island.
Neva Delta.
Saint Petersburg has so many islands that you won't have time to visit them all. This island is known as Kamenny Ostrov Island or Stone Island and is just one of those found in the Neva Delta. Take a stroll through its streets to see the stately mansions built on this island, which is known as one of the most exclusive spots in the city. Some of the most impressive ones include the Follenweider mansion (13 Bolshaya Alleya), which is now the Danish Consulate, or the Shene mansion (3 Skvoznoi Proyezd). From the Soviet Era through to present day, this has been the residential area of top government officials, where it is not uncommon to see flags flying from some of the buildings. You will probably also see a lot of cranes in this area as many politicians are building their future houses here.
Dostoevsky Neighbourhood
This central area of the city has lots of historical links to the famous writer from Czarist Russia.
Great Russian novelist.
Russian literature has produced some true masters over time who have had a huge impact around the world. One of these literary giants is Dostoyevsky, a famous 19th-century writer. He was so important to the city that a whole neighbourhood was named after him when he died. The Dostoyevsky neighbourhood is the centre of the city and is very close to Sennaya Square. However, it is not actually the official name of this neighbourhood. Dostoyevsky was a curious character and would only live in houses on corners so he could always look out on two streets. In total, he lived in 20 different houses and one of them, at 1, 9 and 7 Kaznacheyskaya Street, where he wrote Crime and Punishment, is open to visitors.
Tour starting in Vosstaniya Square
Vosstaniya Square is a great place to start a sightseeing tour around the city.
Saint Petersburg by foot.
There are thousands of ways to explore the famous monuments and areas of Saint Petersburg, by inventing your own route with the help of a map, with a guide or on an organised tour. If you fancy going it alone, an interesting route would be to start at Vosstaniya Square (Russian for insurrection), where you'll find the Vosstaniya metro station which used to be a nuclear bomb shelter. The station is worth a visit for its unusual architecture and lavish decoration, including an image of Stalin if you have time to look for it. From here, you could walk towards Nevsky Prospekt, which is the main street in the city and one of the most historic in the whole world. From here, why not cross the Fontanka River to visit the numerous parks and gardens in this area, such as the Ekaterininsky garden.
Boat Trip
Saint Petersburg is said to be another Venice. Take a boat trip around the city and you'll see why...
The Venice of the North.
A great plan for a sunny day and as a rest from walking around the sights is to sign up for one of the boat tours offered at various points around the city. Seeing Saint Petersburg by foot or by bike is not the same as seeing it by boat: you'll get a whole new perspective and understanding of the city. With around 70 canals and rivers and 50 islands, Saint Petersburg is known as the Venice of the North. There are various companies to choose from and tours are usually around an hour and a half to two hours. Since prices vary depending on the company and on how many people are on the tour, we recommend dropping into the tourist office on Nevsky Prospekt for more information.
Tikhvin Cemetery
You'll find big names like Stravinsky or Tchaikovsky in this increasingly popular place to visit.
Alternative tourism?
Cemeteries are becoming more and more popular with tourists and are no longer seen as an odd place to visit. The thrill of hunting out the gravestones of famous people or the idea of a peaceful stroll surrounded by nature is attracting a growing number of visitors. The Tikhvin cemetery is part of the Alexander Nevsky Monastery complex and the closest metro is Aleksandra Nevskogo II. Many famous Russians are buried here, such as the composer and chemist Borodin, the writer Dostoyevsky or other composers such as Stravinsky, Tchaikovsky, Glinka or Rubinstein. Visitors are given a map of the cemetery marking the graves of the most famous people buried at Tikhvin (some even have a bust on their tombstone).
Griboedova channel
This canal is considered a street. Needless to say, the great importance it has in the city.
A Petersburg must.
Another of the wonders of the city are its numerous canals. You can do the canal route in an afternoon, because some of them are worth seeing, such as the Griboedova canal, which was built in 1739. This canal begins at the Moika river and flows into the Fontanka river, where the Kalinkina bridge is. Before 1923 it received the name of the Catalina channel, in homage to this empress. The most curious thing about this canal is that it is considered a street: Naberezhnaya Kanala Griboyedova, but Petersburgers only say Griboedova canal, but the fact that it is considered a street already indicates the importance of this canal in the city. No matter what time of year you travel, this canal always preserves its intact beauty, whether with frozen water or at night and in summer.
Palace Embankment
This embankment provides an unbeatable 2-kilometre promenade with some unforgettable sunsets.
Beautiful sunsets.
When in Saint Petersburg, you can't miss a stroll along the Palace Embankment, also known as the Neva Embankment after the adjoining river. This is one of the best places in the city for watching the sunset as it bathes the buildings along the embankment in a beautiful, orange light. You can walk the embankment from the Senate to the Summer Palace of Peter the Great, covering a total of 2 kilometres. A stroll from end to end is a great way to see some of the city’s best canals and aristocratic buildings. Why not start early to fit in the Winter and Summer Palaces, Isaac Square and a general look around the area, and then find a good spot on the Embankment to catch an unforgettable sunset.
Troitsky Most
This chain doesn't serve the greatest food in town, but its mushroom lasagne will definitely do the job.
Fast, healthy and cheap.
A small vegetarian restaurant, decorated in a simple but pleasing style. This place is ideal if you don't have time for a sit-down lunch but fancy something light and healthy to keep you going. The legendary mushroom lasagne deserves a special mention and it is definitely the star dish at Troitsky Most. The food here is very affordable, with a number of dishes priced at 230 roubles (5 euros). There are a couple these chain restaurants dotted around the city but they are all decorated in a different style. You'll find one at the Dostoevskaya metro on Petrogradsky Island. In addition to the good range of vegetarian dishes, you can also enjoy a coffee and something sweet for breakfast (they open at 9am) or as a dessert.
Botanika Restaurant/Cafe
An interesting option, with international vegetarian cuisine and a playroom for the kids!
A vegetarian feast.
Very close to the Mukhinskoye Institute of Art and just 5 minutes from the Summer Gardens is one of the very few vegetarian restaurants in Saint Petersburg. It has become a real hit in the city as Russian cuisine is usually quiet meat heavy and it is a welcome find for those who don’t eat meat or simply fancy something different. The menu is very international, so expect to find dishes such as hummus, tabbouleh, salads or tomato soup alongside a range of Japanese, Indian, Russian and Italian food. The Botanika restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere, predominantly green decor and a playroom for kids, making it ideal if you're travelling with children. It might not be as cheap as other restaurants, but it isn’t extortionate.
Caravan Restaurant
Speedy service is not one of its strong points, but the food is exquisite and well worth the wait.
Something smells good!
Near the Fontanka River on Voznesensky Avenue, there is a restaurant that has been a big name on the city’s restaurant scene for over a decade: The Caravan. It might not have the most elegant or luxurious decor, but the Caravan has a really unique atmosphere and the quirky feel of dining inside a caravan. The most surprising feature of this restaurant is the Arabian camel you'll find in one of the rooms (which isn't actually real of course). It specialises in dishes from Uzbekistan and the Caucasus region and the prices will suit any budget. We recommend trying the special grills and the cheburek (a type of pasty filled with minted meat). As for the service, it can be a little slow but the excellent food is worth the wait.
Lya Rus Restaurant
Table for two? This restaurant is the perfect place for a romantic meal and its menu is very reasonably priced.
Romantic setting guaranteed.
For couples, Lya Rus is an excellent restaurant for a romantic evening meal in the heart of the city. It is very close to the metro station Admiralteyskaya, next to the Bolshaya Neva River. For the reasonable price of around 300-400 roubles per dish (7-9 euros), you can enjoy a typical Russian meal while watching a live show of traditional music and dance. The portions here are on the large side so you won't go hungry with just one main and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming. The decor at Lya Rus is rather kitsch and, like at many Russian restaurants, it will feel like stepping into an Eastern European cottage or village tavern.
Na Zdorovie! Restaurant
Red furnishings and music are the order of the day in this lively restaurant that offers a revived range of traditional dishes.
To your health!
To your health is the cheery toast you'll hear at this restaurant, which has adopted the expression as its name. The first thing you'll notice as you step through the door is the colourful decor: the chair covers with multi-coloured geometrical shapes, the unique and cheerful tablecloths and the bright red walls. What's more, the live music also adds to the vibrant atmosphere. This is another of the many restaurants in the city that serve traditional Russian food. We recommend the typical Russian drink known as kvas (which is like our beer) or mors (a sweet drink made with berry juice). The great thing about this place is that many of the dishes are based on age-old recipes that have been long forgotten in other restaurants. Na Zdorovie! also offers live music on certain nights.
Pravda Restaurant
The decor, the dishes and the prices will take you back to the communist years from the moment you step through the door.
Hearty traditional soups.
This place is great for people passing through the city, like backpackers or students, and especially for those who don't want to spend much on food but fancy something a bit different. This restaurant is a genuine throwback to the communist era. The decor is rather kitsch and it certainly goes all out with paintings of Lenin, The Internationale (famous socialist anthem) and even communist dishes. In this restaurant, which isn’t exactly the height of fashion, even the prices seem stuck in the communist era with a meal costing around 100-300 roubles (2-7 euros). The selection of vegetarian dishes on its traditional Russian menu is another point in favour. Sticking to tradition, they also serve a good range of typical soups and it is a great place to enjoy local Russian cuisine.
Kavkaz Restaurant
The decor is simple yet elegant, the Russian-style brochette is divine and the customer service is second to none.
Georgian cuisine at its best.
Simple, elegant decor with a rustic touch is a good way to describe this restaurant at 18 Karavannaya Street (metro: Gostiny Dvor). It specialises in typical dishes from Georgia and the Caucasus region (the name of the restaurant actually means Caucasus). Kavkaz is a very friendly and homely place to eat, with dishes served on wooden platters and very generous portion sizes. Why not try the shashlik, which is a delicious Russian take on a brochette (the meat is marinated before being cooked). Dishes cost between 300 and 500 roubles (7-11 euros). The menu might be a little hard to understand as most tourists won't be familiar with the dishes, but the staff are excellent and will answer all your questions in English.
NEP Restaurant
If you’re looking for a memorable night out that won't break the bank, this the place for you: a slice of cabaret served with delicious international cuisine!
Great food, great shows.
Fancy dinner and a show? If so, then you’re in for a great night at NEP. This restaurant serves up Russian, Thai and European dishes while you enjoy one of its various shows, ranging from cabaret, concerts and even the odd Broadway-style musical. It isn't very expensive, with mains costing around 600 roubles (14 euros) and the soups come highly recommended. The restaurant is located on the bottom floor of a building not far from the Nevsky Prospekt metro station. The waiters dress in Soviet-era uniforms and once you step through the door, everything is part of the show. It is advisable to go early or book in advance as it fills up quickly. The shows start at 20:30 and cost 340 roubles (8 euros).
Flamand Rose
Great coffee and authentic European breakfasts in a comfortable setting, complete with its own shop.
You couldn't ask for more.
Open from 11am to 11pm, this cafe/bar specialises in Belgian food and beers. It can be found in the centre of the city, near the Gorkovskaya metro station. If you are a little wary of trying too many new types of food, this place serves delicious waffles and European-style breakfasts. The beautiful chandelier at the entrance to the cafe more than makes up for the lack of natural light. Its quiet and friendly atmosphere makes it the ideal spot for a coffee or a long, lazy breakfast and the food is excellent. As well as being a cafe/bar, the Flamand Rose also has a designer boutique. What more could you want... a cafe, bar, restaurant and shop all rolled into one!
Ryumochnaya Restaurant
Friendly service, 213 types of vodka and a traditional Russian menu. This is what Ryumochnaya is all about.
Solyanka and rassolnik.
With its friendly atmosphere, Ryumochnaya will make you feel right at home while offering an excellent range of typical dishes. There are 213 types of vodka to try and even a vodka museum you can visit after you meal. Mains cost around 500-850 roubles (11-21 euros). We would recommend the blinis, which are small fried pancakes served plain or filled with caviar, potato or fish. There is also an good selection of Russian soups, such as solyanka (normally made with meat, fish or mushrooms and always with cucumber) or rassolnik (with gherkins and kidney) and main dishes such as minted meat and potatoes (the latter being a staple ingredient in most dishes). Vegetarian options include potatoes served with mushrooms or salads. Ryumochnaya can be found at number 4 Konnogvardeyiski Boulevard.
Dom Kino
If you're looking for a mainstream cinema, you've come to the wrong place. Dom Kino only screens cult classics.
Alternative cinema.
This is another of the oldest theatre/cinemas in the city and is known for screening the very best world cinema. Steering clear of Hollywood productions, Dom Kino showcases critically acclaimed films from festivals such as Cannes, Sundance or Venice. It sometimes shows entire back catalogues of famous directors, as well as German, Chinese and French cinema. Ticket prices are very accessible, ranging from 100 to 200 roubles (2-5 euros). The closest metro is Gostiny Dvor, near to Arts Square. It is the only cinema that screens films in English and it attracts an eclectic crowd of both young and old, and foreign and local film lovers. Take care to not end up in the wrong place as the Rodina cinema is just next door (the entrance is behind the monument).
Tsely Mir
Having a cup of tea is a ritual in its own right. In this relaxing tea house, you can choose from over 200 types of tea!
Tea for all tastes.
You could say that tea is millions of years old, with the first cup being recorded in 250 BC. Since then, it has spread around the world and become a key part of many cultures. This teahouse can be found on Vasilyevsky Island, close to the palace bridge. Tsely Mir, a true shrine to this million-year-old drink, is both a teahouse and a shop where you'll find over 200 different types of tea. It is a very peaceful place decorated in an authentic Japanese style. When you're brought your tea, the waiter will explain how it should be prepared as the whole ritual is very important. This would be a great place for a quiet break, where you can relax on the comfortable cushions and listen to traditional Japanese music.
Manhattan Club
Strictly for lovers of rock, folk and hardcore: if you’re after a touch of glamour or some peace and quiet, sit this one out!
Boho chic.
The Manhattan club can be found next to the Vladimirskaya metro station by the Fontanka River. It offers a range of art exhibitions and rock concerts, Wednesday to Sunday from 20:00 onwards. This is definitely not the place for a glamourous night out or for quiet evening entertainment. The Manhattan has a very bohemian feel and is definitely a little rough around the edges. Located in a basement, you'll see that the decor doesn't amount to much, but it is still a hugely popular venue with the local arty crowd. The style of the music varies from night to night so expect to find a whole range of rock, folk and even hardcore concerts on offer. Entry prices vary depending on the event but are usually between 100 and 250 roubles (2-6 euros).
Avrora Cinema
Cult cinema in original version at an amazing price. Great alternative entertainment.
Russian cinema.
Russian cinema has produced some great cult directors such as Tarkovsky and Eisenstein. If you're a fan of Russian films and cinema in general, the popular theatre/cinema Avrora offers a range of modern Russian films in original version. At the reasonable price of 250 roubles (around 6 euros), you can catch a film here at any time of the day, whether at 12 noon or 11 o'clock at night. The Avrora is the oldest cinema in Saint Petersburg and the closest metro is Nevsky Prospekt. It opened in 1913 under the name Picadilly and you'll probably find the locals still know it by its former name. Inside, the decor is still rather spectacular despite having been remodelled various times since it first opened.
Tunnel Club
The first techno club in the city is today a big name on the underground scene.
Urban electro beats.
As one of the most underground venues in the city, this is where local partygoers come to dance the night away. The Tunnel club has dominated the techno scene in the city since the 1990s and was in fact the first techno club in the whole country when it opened in 1993. It was closed in 1997 for a number of years until its eagerly anticipated revival in 2002. Close to the Sportivnaya metro station, this is one of the best places in the city to listen and dance to electro music where, depending on the night, you'll find house music, drum and base, techno or breakbeat. It is open Thursday to Saturday until 6am and entry costs between 100 and 230 roubles (2-5 euros).
Saint Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra
Directed by Yuri Temirkanov since 1988, the Saint Petersburg Philharmonic is one of the most renowned orchestras in Europe.
Among the best in Europe.
Founded in 1882, this is the oldest philharmonic orchestra in Russia and has been directed by Yuri Temirkanov since 1988. The orchestra dates back to the reign of Czar Alexander III when it was created as the Imperial Music Choir to perform for the royal family at official receptions, ceremonies and other events. The building itself was built in 1839 by the architect P. Jacot and the facade was designed by C. Rossi. It comes as no surprise that famous classical composers such as Schumann, Wagner, Tchaikovsky and Liszt have all graced this venue, which has been the musical centre of the city since the late 19th century. If you would like to experience a concert at this multi-hall venue (billed as one of the best in Europe), why not take the metro to Nevsky Prospekt to see what's on.
Datscha Bar
Famous, small and charming: this is Datscha, a firm favourite among the young and trendy of Saint Petersburg.
A warm welcome for all.
The famous Datscha bar is right in the city centre. It is a small, quirky place and, despite its size, a popular venue for a dance. It basically consists of a mixing table, a bar and a football table. The drinks are reasonably priced and it is popular among students, tourists and even the odd celebrity, although you'll mainly find quite a young crowd. The owner of the bar has a saying: it doesn't matter what you wear or how much you earn, the important thing is what kind of person you are. This is a place where everyone is welcome, where you can start the night at a fun bar with good music from live DJs. It isn’t the best place if you're after a quiet drink; its limited floor space means it is always packed.
Mariinsky Theatre
Karsavina, Nureyev, Chaliapin and Sobinov have all performed here, which says it all really.
Impeccable programme.
This theatre has had various names: from 1920 to 1935 it was known as the National Academy and Ballet and during the Soviet Era it was known as the Kirov Theatre and Ballet (after the politician Sergei Kirov). However, it is currently known as the Mariinsky Theatre. The Russian-Italian architect Alberto Cavos designed the theatre seeking inspiration from the Dresden opera house. It only took a year to build and was finished in 1860. It has hosted some of the very best Russian ballet and opera and, in keeping with tradition, still offers a world-class programme. Famous ballet dancers and opera singers such as Karsavina, Nureyev, Chaliapin and Sobinov have all performed here. In May 2013, Mariinsky II opened in an adjoining building as a sister theatre with more modern installations.
Mod Club
This club offers all types of music and guaranteed fun, until the sun comes up!
From 6 to 6!
If you're more into nightclubs than theatre and opera, we recommend Mod Club in the central Konyushennaya Square (nearest metro Nevsky Prospekt, close to the river). It has very long opening hours for a club (from 6pm to 6am) and makes great use of the original structure of the building. It mainly plays electro music, but also puts on rock and hip hop concerts and the style of the music changes each night. The venue has a quirky 1960's feel to it with dance floors, a lounge area, open-air terrace and a jukebox. Mod Club makes for a great night out for couples and groups of friends, where you can dance all night and see the sunrise over Saint Petersburg.
Mikhailovsky Theatre
This historic theatre offers the best performances in the city, thanks in no small part to Nacho Duato.
As important as it is old.
This theatre was named after Mikhail Pavlovich, the son of Paul I of Russia, although it is also known as Maly Theatre. The current building was designed by the architect Alexander Brullov and built in Mikhailovsky Square, which is now known as Arts Square. The Mikhailovsky Theatre opened in 1833 and is one of the oldest opera and ballet theatres in Russia. It is a great place for a magical night out in Saint Petersburg. Go to www.mikhailovsky.ru/en/ for the current programme in English. The famous Spanish ballet dancer and choreographer Nacho Duato has directed the Mikhailovsky Theatre ballet company since January 2011 and has also been the director of the Berlin State Ballet since 2013.
Monument to Pushkin
The city’s love of Pushkin, the father of modern Russian literature, comes as no surprise.
Russian poet par excellence.
In Arts Square, opposite the Russian Museum, you'll find this statue to the Russian poet par excellence and father of modern Russian literature, Alexander Pushkin. The nearest metro stop to visit this sculpture is Nevsky Prospekt. Created by the sculptor Mikhail Anikushin and the architect Vasily Petrov, Pushkin appears on a granite base holding out his right arm. This bronze monument was commissioned in 1957 for the 250th anniversary of Saint Petersburg and it took 8 years to finish. As a playwright, poet and novelist, Pushkin influenced other literary greats such as Tolstoy and Dostoyevsky. A masterful blend of romance, drama and satire, his most famous works include Boris Godunov, the Captain's Daughter and Secret Journal.
The Hare at the Peter and Paul Fortress
A great number of legends surround the city. The legend of the hare is perhaps the most important and the most interesting.
The stuff of legends.
This Russian city is full of magical legends and curious sculptures, such as the little hare at the entrance of the Peter and Paul Fortress (the original citadel of Saint Petersburg). This is the very spot on which the history of the city began in around 1703. As legend would have it, when Peter the Great (who ordered the fortress to be built) disembarked from his boat, a hare jumped into his boot and from that moment on, the island where the fortress was built has been known as Hare Island. As such, this statue of a hare was built at the entrance to the fortress to protect the island from floods.
The Rostral Columns
In the past, these columns were lighthouses. Today, they are only lit up once a year on 31 July. An amazing sight to see!
60 metres of maritime glory.
Found on Vasilyevsky Island, right on the water's edge, these two columns are a monument to Russia's naval glory. They were built in 1810 and designed by the architect Thomas de Thomon. Standing 60 meters tall, these red columns are decorated with ship prows celebrating various naval victories and with stone figures symbolising the four main rivers in Russia: Voljov, Dneper, Volga and Neva. In the past, these columns were used as lighthouses, but nowadays they are only lit up as part of the Navy Day celebrations on 31 July. Keep an eye out for the tradition of newlywed couples opening a bottle of cava at the columns, taking a sip and then throwing their glasses against the stone.
Cats in Malaya Sadovaya Street
The city is full of sculptures of cats, which has something to do with the Second World War. Can you guess what?
Historic meows.
As you go about exploring the city, you'll see various sculptures of cats. This is because nearly all the cats in Leningrad (now Saint Petersburg) died in the Second World War and in 1943, an emergency shipment of two train wagons full of cats was sent to the city from Moscow. The most famous are in the city centre at the start of Malaya Sadovaya Street, where each cat has its own name. Here, you'll find the statue of a cat called Elisey on the cornice of the famous chocolate shop, Eliseevsky. The statue of Vasilisa is on the other side of the street and Tishka can be find at number 34 Marata Street (also on a cornice), which is a painters' workshop. There are more cat statues dotted around the city; just take a look around, or rather up, to find them.
Narva Triumphal Arch
I wouldn't go home without a photo of Saint Petersburg's answer to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.
Monumental stone.
Built in Narva Square to celebrate Russia's victory over Napoleon Bonaparte in 1814, this monumental arch was originally built by the architect Giacomo Quarenghi and then redesigned in stone by Vasily Stasov between 1827 and 1834. It is said to be Russia's answer to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, which was built to celebrate Napoleon's victory at the battle of Austerlitz. The lower part is adorned with sculptures of Fame offering laurel wreaths and the upper part has been a military museum since the end of the 1980s. The traditional elements of a Roman triumphal arch are easy to spot: a rounded arch and an entablature forming a single square-shaped structure, with the columns serving a merely decorative purpose.
Alexander Nevsky Monastery
Peter I founded this impressive complex at which the atheist cemetery is particularly interesting.
Impressive architectural complex.
On Nevsky Prospekt Avenue, between the Obvodny canal and Alexander Nevsky Square, you'll find the monastery of Russian leader and saint of the Russian Orthodox church, Alexander Nevsky. One of the largest architectural complexes in the city, it was founded by Peter I in 1710. In addition to a neoclassical cathedral, there are also two baroque churches inside the monastery that were built in the 18th century by Domenico and Antonio Trezzini. Many illustrious Russians are buried here, such as the writer Dostoyevsky or the composers Tchaikovsky and Glinka. This huge monastery is home to three cemeteries (one for atheists), as well as a cathedral dedicated to the Holy Trinity and the city's museum of sculpture. It is a Lavra monastery, which is the title given to the most important and influential monasteries of the Orthodox Church.
Naval Cathedral of St. Nicholas
A huge dome, Greek-cross layout and a Baroque, Elizabethan style are the key features of this cathedral.
White and blue glimmers.
In Saint Nicolas Square, in the heart of the city, you'll find this Orthodox Church built in the Elizabethan baroque style and dedicated to the patron saint of sailors, Nikolaos of Bari. The cathedral was designed by one of the greatest Russian architects of the 18th century, Savva Chevakinsky. Built between 1753 and 1763, is well worth a visit for its 52-metre dome, blue and white painted facade (in clear homage to the nautical world) and Greek-cross layout. The lower floor of the cathedral has a more everyday use and is where you'll find the Greek icon of Saint Nicholas with a collection of relics. The church itself, decorated in the baroque style and lined with Italian paintings, is only used on Sundays and for religious celebrations.
Yusupov Palace
Just as you would expect, a grandiose and luxury palace: fitting characteristics for the House of Yusupov.
All the luxury in the world.
The House of Yusupov is one of the wealthiest and most famous families in Russian history. This palace was designed by the best architects of the time from Russia and further afield and it is one of the most luxurious private palaces in the world. Inside, you'll find a sumptuous Arabic-style room, various ballrooms, a rococo-style theatre and the private living quarters of the Yusupov princes. Rasputin, the illiterate peasant and mystical healer who famously won the trust of Czar Nicolas II, was murdered in the courtyard of this palace. There is an exhibition dedicated to Rasputin in the basement, which can only be visited on a 2-hours guided tour that must be booked in advance. The palace also has an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures and artefacts. It is right in the middle of the city, next to Saint Isaac's Cathedral.
Saint Isaac's Cathedral
A 102-metre dome and 14,000-person capacity: truly incredible!
Bound to impress!
The French architect Auguste de Montferrand is to thank for this majestic building, which simply cannot be described in any other way. This impressive cathedral was built between 1818 and 1858. A wooden church dedicated to the monk Isaac once stood on the site of this spectacular building, whose main dome rises a staggering 102 metres high. Four monumental porticos formed by various granite columns stand at the cathedral entrance. The capacity of this cathedral is astonishing: it can accommodate up to 14,000 people! In 1931, it also became a museum and you can even go up to the dome colonnade and enjoy the splendid views of Saint Petersburg.
Bronze Horseman
Peter the Great on a red granite rock is one of the most visited sculptures in the city.
Homage to the founder.
This is one of the most visited statues in the city. Paying homage to Peter the Great, the founder of the city, it is an iconic symbol of Saint Petersburg. In this sense, it is like the Statue of Liberty in New York. The bronze statue is in Senate Square on the banks of the Neva River. It was made by Étienne- Maurice Falconet and commissioned by Catherine the Great. The statue is named after a poem by Pushkin that is considered one of the greatest literary works of Russia. Interestingly, the statue is mounted on a large granite rock rather than a typical pedestal and the Czar doesn't have a sword, which is a typical feature of this kind of statue.
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