Visiting Saint Petersburg
The architectural treasures of the city
Often called the Venice of the North, Saint Petersburg is packed with architectural landmarks. The must-see Hermitage Museum, housed in the Winter Palace, stands out for its massive art collections and lavish design. Not far away, Saint Isaac's Cathedral provides panoramic views of the city from its dome. If you enjoy historic churches, the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, featuring vibrant mosaics and traditional Russian architecture, is well worth a stop.
Strolling along the canals
With its network of waterways and rivers, Saint Petersburg invites slow-paced walks. Boat tours on the Neva River or through the canals offer a different perspective of the city, especially at night when the drawbridges rise. The Nevsky Prospekt, the main thoroughfare, is ideal for a walk on foot past shops, restaurants, and historic monuments.
Museums and cultural centers
Beyond the Hermitage, Saint Petersburg has plenty of other museums worth your time. The State Russian Museum focuses entirely on Russian art with a vast collection of paintings and sculptures. For literature fans, the Dostoevsky Museum pulls visitors right into the world of the author behind The Brothers Karamazov. If you are curious about naval history, the cruiser Aurora, a ship that played a key role in the 1917 revolution, is open for tours.
Local food and drink
Saint Petersburg has a hearty and diverse culinary scene. Make sure to try pelmeni, stuffed dumplings typically served with sour cream. Seafood fans should look out for koryushka, a fried smelt popular in local waters. For dessert, try prianiki, spiced honey cookies. The city also features many spots serving modern Russian cuisine, blending old traditions with new techniques.
When to go
The best window to visit Saint Petersburg runs from May to September. The days are long, particularly in June during the White Nights when the sun barely sets. Winter is freezing, though it coats the city in snow. During the warmer months, the White Nights Festival brings major cultural events across town.
How to get there
Since March 2022 there have been no direct flights between the EU and Russia, and none from North America either: you route through Istanbul, Dubai, or Belgrade, and U.S. and Canadian citizens still need a visa. Another common route is flying into Moscow and catching the high-speed Sapsan train, which connects the two cities in 4h. The train ride gives you a clear view of the surrounding countryside.
Whether for its cultural and architectural heritage, its museums, its canals, or its gardens, Saint Pete definitely deserves the title of cultural capital of Russia.
A really beautiful discovery to make as a couple or with friends, though perhaps less so with family.