St. Petersburg is a city of history and culture, filled with remarkable places that attract visitors from around the world. One of its most famous historic landmarks is Catherine Palace. Rebuilt to its present form between 1752 and 1756, the palace is a striking testament to the splendour of the imperial era. Its lavish interiors and exterior decoration feature sculpture, frescoes, marble and many other ornamental details.
Another historic landmark of St. Petersburg is the Admiralty Canal. Created in the early 18th century, it links the Moika River with the Kryukov Canal and reflects the engineering ambitions of the city's early development.
The Winter Palace, built between 1754 and 1762, also deserves a mention. With its richly decorated façades, sculptures, frescoes and marble details, it is a vivid symbol of the grandeur of its age.
Finally, there is the Peter and Paul Fortress, founded in 1703 and completed in stone during the first half of the 18th century. This impressive structure is one of St. Petersburg's most celebrated landmarks.
These historic sites are only the beginning. St. Petersburg is a city full of extraordinary places with stories worth discovering.
Best places to visit in St. Petersburg
- St. Isaac's Cathedral – one of St. Petersburg's most outstanding architectural monuments.
- The Hermitage – a museum with more than 3 million exhibits, including works by renowned artists.
- Nevsky Prospect – the city's principal avenue and a major centre of St. Petersburg life.
- Griboyedov Canal – a picturesque canal linking the Fontanka River and the Moika River.
- Alexander Pushkin Museum-Apartment – a unique museum preserving the atmosphere of the 19th century.
- Central Market – a popular market where you can find fresh fruit, vegetables, fish, cheeses, bread, flowers and souvenirs.
- Fontanka Gardens – a charming place to enjoy monuments, fountains, sculptures and colourful flower displays.
- Raduzhny Museum-Estate
Expert travel tips for St. Petersburg
- When getting around St. Petersburg, keep an eye on public transport timetables so you do not miss the bus, tram or metro you need.
- Stay aware of your surroundings while exploring the city. Avoid walking alone on poorly lit streets, do not accept offers from strangers, and keep valuables out of easily accessible bags or pockets.
- When planning your trip, remember that distances between attractions can be considerable, so allow enough time to see everything you want.
- Before your trip, check local rules and restrictions that may apply in different areas of the city.
- Before travelling, find out which payment methods — credit cards, debit cards or cash — are accepted so you can pay conveniently.