Saint Petersburg is the cultural heart of Russia! Known for its grand architecture, rich history, and vibrant arts scene, this city offers a treasure trove of cultural attractions that captivate every traveller. It is home to the Hermitage, one of the world’s largest art museums. Moreover, the city has beautiful canals and white nights in summer when the sun never sets.
From iconic museums to stunning palaces, each site offers a unique glimpse into the city's past and present. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you on a journey through the top 13 cultural places to visit in Saint Petersburg. So, get ready to explore the cultural heart of Russia and immerse yourself in the beauty and history of Saint Petersburg.
Top 13 Places To Visit in Saint Petersberg
1. Hermitage Museum
When it comes to cultural places of interest in St Petersburg, the Hermitage Museum is an absolute must-visit. Situated across six buildings on the Palace Embankment, this museum is one of the largest and oldest museums of art and culture in the world, with over 3 million items in its collection. Established in 1764, the museum houses works by Raphael, Rembrandt, and Van Gogh.
The collection is dedicated to different styles and eras, including the Italian Renaissance, Impressionism, and post-impressionism. The museum’s vast collection is spread across six buildings, five of which are always open to the public.
2. Yusupov Palace
Located on the banks of the Moyka River, this spectacular palace boasts some of the best 19th-century interiors in the city. The palace’s last owner, Prince Felix Yusupov, was infamous for his involvement in the murder of Grigory Rasputin in 1916. The interiors of one of the best St Petersberg tourist places are richly decorated with gilded chandeliers and intricate frescoes. Guided tours take visitors through ballrooms, drawing rooms, and even the basement where Rasputin was murdered.
3. Peter and Paul Fortress
Built in 1703 to defend the city from foreign threats, the Peter and Paul Fortress never engaged in battle but was used as a prison and execution site during the Bolshevik Revolution. Today, it is part of the State Museum of the History of St. Petersburg. Visitors can explore the Peter and Paul Cathedral, where many Russian czars are laid to rest, as well as prison cells, a city museum, and the Saint Petersburg Mint building.
4. Church of the Saviour on Spilled Blood
Built on the site where Emperor Alexander II was fatally wounded, the Church of the Saviour on Spilled Blood is an architectural masterpiece. Funded by the imperial family and private donors, this church is a celebration of Russian architecture and art. It features one of the largest collections of mosaics in the world. After decades of restoration, it reopened in 1997 as a museum of mosaics and one of St Petersburg, Russia's tourist attractions.
5. Mariinsky Theatre
The Mariinsky Theatre has played an essential role in Russian ballet since it was built in 1859 and remains a beloved cultural institution. The green-and-white main building is a must-see for visitors wanting to experience one of the world’s great ballet and opera stages. The theatre has hosted premieres of Tchaikovsky’s and Prokofiev’s works and continues to be a major force in the ballet world.
6. Palace Square
The main city square of St. Petersburg is a vast open area located in front of the Winter Palace. The Alexander Column, standing 47 meters tall, commemorates Russia's victory against Napoleon. The square has witnessed crucial events in Soviet/Russian history, including the Bolshevik Revolution and military parades. Today, it is a central location for celebrations and public gatherings.
7. St. Isaac's Cathedral
St. Isaac's Cathedral, the largest orthodox basilica in the world, features beautiful Russian-Byzantine architecture and a fully gold-plated dome. Completed in 1858, the cathedral’s facade is adorned with intricate work and massive granite columns. Inside, visitors can admire mosaics and a huge stained glass window. The cathedral serves as both a place of worship and a popular tourist museum.
8. New Holland
This triangular island once closed for centuries, has been transformed into one of the most intriguing places to visit in Saint Petersberg. Visitors can enjoy concerts, art exhibitions, yoga classes, and film screenings, as well as restaurants, cafes, and shops. The island’s impressive red-brick-and-granite arch and historical ship-building site add to its charm.
9. Eliseyev Emporium
Launched in 1903, the Eliseyev Emporium building features stained-glass windows, Art Nouveau details, and hand-crafted wall patterns. The retail complex focuses on food, with the famous Eliseevy Merchants’ Shop selling premium meats, spices, and dressings. Visitors can also enjoy unique homemade ice cream flavours and hand-carved wooden souvenirs.
10. Catherine Palace
Located 30 km south of the city of Tsarskoe Selo, Catherine Palace is an architectural marvel. Initially built for Catherine I by Peter the Great, the palace was later transformed by Empress Elizabeth. Highlights include the Golden Enfilade, the Amber Room, and the Portrait Hall. The palace’s grandeur and attention to detail make it one of the top places of interest in St Petersberg.
11. Alexander Nevsky Monastery
Named for the patron saint of St. Petersburg, this ancient monastery was founded by Peter the Great. It is a revered place for devout believers and the gravesite of famous Russian artistic figures. Visitors can explore the monastery grounds and visit important graveyards.
12. Vasilyevsky Island
Situated across the river from the Winter Palace, Vasilyevsky Island features notable landmarks like the Peter the Great Museum of Anthropology and Ethnography, the Museum of Electrical Transport, and the Baroque-style Menshikov Palace. The island also hosts branches of the Russian Academy of Sciences and the Institute of Russian Literature, which holds authentic manuscripts of famous Russian writers.
13. Summer Garden
The Summer Garden is a tranquil oasis located at the intersection of the Fontanka and Neva rivers. This beautifully landscaped garden was designed by Peter the Great himself and offers a peaceful retreat from city life. In the garden, you can stroll along tree-lined paths, admire colourful flowerbeds, and relax on one of the benches scattered throughout the garden. The garden also features a collection of 79 sculptures dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries that are strategically placed throughout the park. In short, the Summer Garden is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy nature in the heart of Saint Petersburg.
Documents Required to Visit Saint Petersburg
To visit Saint Petersburg, you will need a few essential documents:
- Valid passport with at least six months' validity from the date of travel.
- Russian tourist visa obtained before your trip.
- Proof of accommodation arrangements such as hotel reservations or a letter of invitation from a Russian host.
- Travel itinerary including flight tickets or other transportation arrangements.
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Russia.
- Travel insurance for Russia with medical coverage for emergencies.
VISA Process to Visit Saint Petersburg
To obtain a tourist visa for visiting Saint Petersburg, you must follow these steps:
- Complete and sign a Russian visa application form.
- Gather the required documents, including a valid passport, passport-sized photos, and a travel itinerary.
- Submit your application and supporting documents to the Russian Embassy or consulate in your country.
- Pay the visa application fee.
- Attend an interview if required.
- Wait for your visa to be processed.
- Collect your passport with the visa.
Importance of Travel Insurance During International Travel
Travelling abroad is exciting, offering new cultures and experiences. However, it's important to have travel insurance to secure your plans. Star Health Insurance's International travel insurance covers unexpected events like medical emergencies, flight delays, lost luggage, and trip cancellations. It ensures that you are protected against unforeseen expenses, allowing you to enjoy a worry-free vacation. For instance, if you lose your passport, travel insurance helps cover the cost of obtaining a duplicate. Always include travel insurance in your travel plans for a safe and secure trip.
