Often called Russia’s most beautiful and European city, St. Petersburg is a feast of imperial palaces, golden domes, grand avenues, and canals. Built by Peter the Great as a “window to the West,” it pairs world-class art and architecture with a lively, creative spirit. This guide brings together our individual articles on the city’s top sights and experiences.

Why Visit St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg offers an unrivalled concentration of culture: the immense Hermitage, the gilded St. Isaac’s Cathedral, the historic Peter and Paul Fortress, and the grand sweep of Nevsky Prospekt. Add to this the famous summer White Nights, the canals that have earned it the nickname “Venice of the North,” and a vibrant arts and nightlife scene, and you have one of Europe’s most rewarding city breaks.

Getting Around

The historic centre is compact and beautiful to explore on foot, especially along the canals and main avenue. For longer distances, the metro is fast, cheap, and home to some strikingly deep and ornate stations. Many of the major sights cluster within walking distance of one another around the Neva River, making it easy to combine several in a single day.

Our St. Petersburg Travel Guides

• The Hermitage Museum & Palace Square: A Guide
• St. Isaac’s Cathedral: A St. Petersburg Guide
• Peter and Paul Fortress: A St. Petersburg Guide
• Nevsky Prospekt & St. Petersburg Nightlife

See our complete St. Petersburg guide for all our articles and hotel recommendations.