St Petersburg Guide Book Russia

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A TRAVELLER’S GUIDE TO
RUSSIA

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A TRAVELLER'S GUIDE TO
ST PETERSBURG

Few cities have the ability to stir the imagination like St. Petersburg.
With its postcard perfect European streets, majestic palaces and
world-class museums and theatres, it’s no wonder St Petersburg is
Russia’s most visited tourist destination. St Petersburg is a thriving
metropolis, home to around 4.6 million inhabitants and so packed full
of world-class establishments that UNESCO declared the historic
centre a World Heritage Site. With hundreds of prominent museums,
cathedrals, sculptures, squares, and places of interest to explore, a
trip to the Russian city will prove full of cultural discoveries.
With so many sights to see in St. Petersburg, navigation around
Russia’s cultural capital is made easier by some simple planning, as
the huge array of things to see and do is enough to overwhelm even
the most seasoned traveler. This guide aims to give a brief
introduction to first time travellers to Russia’s most fascinating cultural
hotspot – including when to go, what to see, and how to get around
while in St. Petersburg.

Call
us
on
1300
742
374
(toll
free
from
Australia)
or
+61-‐2-‐8221-‐88-‐59
from
the
rest
of
the
world,
or
visit
our
website

www.56thparallel.com

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SECTIONS WITHIN THIS EBOOK

St
Peterburg
for
beginners
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When
to
visit
St
Petersburg

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Highlightes
of
St
Petersburg

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-‐6

Getting
In
and
Around
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Dining
and
nighlife
in
St
Petersburg-‐
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-‐18

Shopping
in
St
Petersburg
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Call us on 1300 742 374 (toll free from Australia) or +61-2-8221-88-59 from the rest of the world, or visit our website

4

ST PETERSBURG FOR BEGINNERS


5

WHEN TO VISIT ST PETERSBURG

Despite being the world’s most northerly large city, St Petersburg’s coastal location by
the Baltic Sea means it never really gets that cold – at least by Russian standards! Even
in deepest winter, temperatures rarely drop below -10ºC. While the days are short and
there’s little sunshine in winter, the sight of this most beautiful of cities covered in snow is
truly magical. The streets, squares and cathedrals come alive with celebrations over
Christmas. Fireworks are a highlight over the January new year period, but many
businesses closes during the first half of the month. Spring arrives and temperatures rise
to above freezing by April. Late April through to June days reach around 15 ºC. There’s
less rain and humidity compared to summer and hotel are generally on “shoulder” rates.
July and August are the warmest months and the most popular with tourists, with
temperatures climbing to between 20 and 25 ºC. Hotel rates tend to be highest at this
time of year, and tourist sites more crowded.
of
winter
activities
are
available
on
the
lake
and
its
surrounds,
including
ice
skating,
cross-‐
country
skiing,
dog
sledding
and
ice
fishing


6

HIGHLIGHTES OF ST PETERSBURG


7

HERMITAGE

The city of St Petersburg is overflowing with cultural
treasures, but the State Hermitage Museum
undoubtedly tops the list. Built between 1754 and
1762 for Empress Elisabeth (the daughter of Peter
the Great), the lavish, 1,057 room palace on the
Neva River served as the winter residence for the
famously extravagant rulers of the Russian Empire.
Today, the Winter Palace houses the largest art
gallery in Russia and one of the most important
collections of art in the world. The Hermitage boasts
nearly 3 million exhibits, covering a diverse array of
art and artefacts, from Ancient Egypt to early 20th
century Europe. Some of the world’s greatest works
of art have a permanent home here, including
pieces by Leonardo, Michelangelo, Raphael and
Titian, a superb collection of Rembrandts and
Rubens, many French
Impressionist works by
Renoir, Cezanne, Manet and Monet, several
sculptures by Rodin and the paintings of Van Gogh,
Matisse and Gaugin.

Call
us
on
1300
742
374
(toll
free
from
Australia)
or
+61-‐2-‐8221-‐88-‐59
from
the
rest
of
the
world,
or
visit
our
website


8

MARIINSKY THEATRE
This exquisite classical theatre is the home base of
the world famous Kirov Ballet and Opera company.
A visit here is a must, even if only to take in the
spectacular interiors, but to truly revel in the St
Petersburg experience, visitors should line up tickets
to an evening performance. Tickets can be bought
online through the Mariinsky website, or through
your tour operator or hotel concierge. The
performances, staging, acoustics and atmosphere
are all exquisite, and uniquely Russian.


9

CATHERINE PALACE,
PUSHKIN

The nearby town of Pushkin is home to Tsarskoe
Selo (Tsar’s village), one of Saint Petersburg’s
premier attractions. Amid the immaculately
landscaped parks and gardens you’ll find the
baroque Catherine Palace, a dazzling testament to
Catherine’s love of luxury and royal excess.
Envision Catherine strolling with her beloved dogs
through acres of private gardens, where remarkable
structures like the Marble Bridge, the Dutch
Admiralty and the Creaking Pagoda were
constructed for her amusement. Nearby is the
comparatively modest neoclassical Alexander
Palace, whose tumultuous history paints a
fascinating portrait of the Romanov family.

10

KAZAN CATHEDRAL

Also known as the ‘The Cathedral of Our Lady of
Kazan,’ the dome-shaped Kazan Cathedral was
completed in 1818. Modelled after St. Peter’s
Basilica in Rome, the cathedral is built to a
magnificent scale and boasts a stone colonnade
which encircles a garden and central fountain. Its
north entrance is located on the famous Nevsky
Prospekt so it’s an easy landmark to spot. The
cathedral’s interior features many sculptures and
historical icons worth seeing, crafted by some of
Russia’s all-time great artists.

11

PETERHOF

Once the opulent summer resort of the Romanovs,
the World Heritage listed Peterhof is a huge open air
museum and a testament to Peter the Great’s
contribution to the city’s development. Known as the
‘Russian Versailles’ this stunning collection of
palaces just outside St Petersburg on the Gulf of
Finland warrants a full day trip. Marvel at the
brilliance of the 18th
century architects and artists
who designed the Grand Palace, the Lower Gardens
and some 150 stunning fountains on the palace
grounds.

Call
us
on
1300
742
374
(toll
free
from
Australia)
or
+61-‐2-‐8221-‐88-‐59
from
the
rest
of
the
world,
or
visit
our
website


12

KRONSTADT
A charming municipal town in the gulf of Finland and
St. Petersburg’s main seaport, just 45 mins from the
city centre. The historic downtown of Kronstadt is
included in the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites
and is well known for its defensive significance in
war history, proving an important lost-lasting symbol
of Russia’s legacy. Connected to the city, Kronstadt
includes defensive structures, architectural
ensembles and province houses dating back to the
18th century. You’ll be charmed by its many
architectural monuments and the panoramic view of
the gulf of Finland from its shores.

Call
us
on
1300
742
374
(toll
free
from
Australia)
or
+61-‐2-‐8221-‐88-‐59
from
the
rest
of
the
world,
or
visit
our
website


13

SAINT ISAAC’S
CATHEDRAL
Saint Isaac’s Cathedral is the largest Russian
Orthodox Church in St. Petersburg and is well-
renowned for its famous gold-plated dome and
Late Neoclassical design, faced with gray and pink
stone. The Cathedral currently operates as a
museum and a climb of 300 steps through the
colonnade of the Cathedral offers breathtaking
panoramic views of the city. There is still worship in
the cathedral today however it is reserved for one
side of the chapel only.

Call
us
on
1300
742
374
(toll
free
from
Australia)
or
+61-‐2-‐8221-‐88-‐59
from
the
rest
of
the
world,
or
visit
our
website


14

PETER AND PAUL
FORTRESS
The Peter and Pauls Fortress was founded in 1703
and is the second tallest building in St. Petersburg.
Linked to the city’s rich and fascinating history,
including the Romanov dynasty, this fortress is
home to the graves of nearly every Russian ruler
since Peter the Great. Architecturally the fortress
marks a radical departure from the traditional
Russian Orthodox churches, having being built in
an early Baroque style. Located near the northern
bank of the Neva River, the Peter and Paul fortress
was the city’s main cathedral until Saint Isaac’s
Cathedral was built around 150 years later.

Call
us
on
1300
742
374
(toll
free
from
Australia)
or
+61-‐2-‐8221-‐88-‐59
from
the
rest
of
the
world,
or
visit
our
website


15

GETTING IN AND AROUND


16

METRO
The St Petersburg underground metro has the
distinction of being the deepest in the world. The
four line system is quite extensive and has a colour-
coding system that makes it easy to follow –
although a map in English and Cyrillic will help you
out no-end, as there no signs in English at the
stations. A single ride is the same price (25R), no
matter how far you’re going, and you can also buy
multi-ride cards which provide a small discount.
Either way, the metro system is dirt cheap, fast and
efficient.

CANALS & RIVER
TRANSPORTATION

In the summer months between 8am and 8pm,
aquabuses (water taxis) ferry tourists and
commuters alike across the Gulf of Finland and the
Neva River into St Petersburg’s network of canals,
connecting downtown with some outlying areas of
St Petersburg. A ride on any of the four fixed routes
give you the chance to admire some of the city’s
most beautiful landmarks from a unique perspective.
In season, dozens of tour boats, from small private
launches to luxury cruisers with meals, drinks and
live bands on board take tourists out on the water to
some of the most scenic spots along the waterfront.
Night cruises can be particularly romantic.


17

TRAMS & TROLLEYBUSES
Trams and trolleybuses offer a pleasant and extremely inexpensive way to see the city, but only
a few lines are convenient for hotels and tourist sights. Two lines worth trying are the #14 tram,
which runs from the Mariinsky Theatre up through the centre of town and across the Neva, and
the #1 tram, which runs through Vasilevsky Island, including a stop just outside the
Vasileostrovskaya metro station.
TAXIS

As in Moscow, there are plenty of unofficial ‘taxis’ skulking around. Using an official taxi is safer
and you can usually negotiate a fairer price. Unfortunately, official taxis aren’t particularly
common, except in the busier shopping and nightlife districts.


18

DINING AND NIGHTLIFE


19

DINING IN ST PETERSBURG

Whereas the Moscow eating out scene trends towards cosmopolitan, international and
upmarket, St Petersburg’s dining set is more firmly rooted in tradition. It’s a relatively easy task to
find places serving truly authentic, time-honoured Russian cuisine, in a relaxed and convivial
atmosphere. St Petersburg has plenty to suit every budget, from stately fine dining restaurants to
hip cafes and uniquely Russian fast food options, often open 24 hours a day. The main St
Petersburg speciality is bliny – delicate, flavoursome crepes or pancakes served with an endless
variety of fillings. Traditional favourite fillings include forest mushrooms, minced meat and onions
and luxurious caviar, as well as sweet bliny served with honey, jam and cream. Restaurants
serving excellent European and international cuisine continue to crop up as St Petersburg’s
vibrant dining scene matures and expands.
A cheap meal can be had in St Petersburg for around 400 rubles. Mid-range restaurants offer
measl from between 400 to 1200 rubles, while a perfectly crafted dish at one of the city’s elegant
fine diners can easily set you back over 1800 rubles.
A few of our suggestions:

Call
us
on
1300
742
374
(toll
free
from
Australia)
or
+61-‐2-‐8221-‐88-‐59
from
the
rest
of
the
world,
or
visit
our
website


20

TEPLO
«Teplo» is the Russian word for “warmth”,
hinting at the cosy living room atmosphere of
this quirky, relaxed and friendly eatery in the
historic city centre. Think homely furniture,
couches and blankets, an open fireplace and
cuddly Russian soft toys for décor. The
portions are generous, the prices are
reasonable and the cooking shows off the
best of traditional Russian comfort food –
fresh baked pastries, smoked salmon in
savoy cabbage, roast chicken, beef
stroganoff and delicious house-made cakes.
VODKA ROOM NO1
This charming bar-restaurant showcases
Russian cuisine from different historical
periods. The restaurant’s beautifully
conceived interiors recreate the atmosphere
of a late 19th century public house, with bent
wood chairs, antique sideboards,
lampshades and quaint traditional table
settings. It’s the perfect place to try classic
cuisine including dishes made from Lake
Baikal fish, pirozhki (savoury puff pastries)
and hearty roast meats. Starting the meal
with vodka and blinis is a must.

MANSARDA
With a stunning view on the Dome of Saint
Isaac’s Church, situated in the historical
centre, the Mansarda restaurant is a sleek
location with a variety of cuisines, among
them, the Italian one (the chef is Italian, from
Sardinia), all realised with taste and the
highest level of quality.

21

NIGHTLIFE IN ST
PETERSBURG
Russia’s cultural capital boasts a thriving nightlife
scene year-round, but in the peak of summer, during
the White Nights, locals and visitors alike are even
more apt to stay out all night – after all, during these
magical few weeks, there is no “after dark”. Under
the soft sunset glow, the city’s palaces, parks and
squares play host to midnight concerts, open air jazz
festivals, and streets come alive with roving
performances and a spirited, “make the most of it”
attitude that’s uniquely St Petersburg.
Throughout the year, the city hosts a long list of
cultural events and festivals. It’s the home of the
world renowned Kirov Ballet and Opera Company,
and seeing them perform at their elaborate
headquarters, the Mariinsky Theatre, is an absolute
must (if they’re not out touring internationally). A
growing crop of smaller dance and theatre
companies are providing plenty of healthy
competition.


22

St Petersburg’s club and bar scene doesn’t reach the same wild excesses of Moscow, but for
some visitors, the more relaxed atmosphere comes as a bit of a relief, and St Petersburg’s
scene is fun and varied all the same. The Dumaskaya Ul precinct, just off Nevsky Prospekt, is
your best bet for all-night bar hopping, with four of St Petersburg’s coolest drinking and live
music venues are tucked away behind a crumbling classical façade. Metro is the city’s
quintessential Russian mega-club, with a poppy playlist attracting a youthful crowd. Leather clad
erotic dancers take the stage after 2am several nights a week. During summer soccer season,
try to score tickets to a game at Petrovsky Stadium and experience St Petersburgers’ fanaticism
for their local team, Zenit.


23

SHOPPING IN ST PETERSBURG


24

St Petersburg isn’t a fashion-obsessed shopping
mecca in the league of Moscow, but it’s still a great
destination for everything from luxury brands to
kitschy souvenirs and sought-after local antiques.
St Petersburg’s main thoroughfare, Nevsky
Prospekt is where most of the hotels are
concentrated. While you’ll find all the classic
Russian souvenirs you could want here, prices are
higher than elsewhere. Still, with an abundance of
beautiful boutique stores and galleries, the area is
well worth an exploratory jaunt. The flea markets
offer much more competitive prices as well as an
authentic local shopping experience. Across the
road from the Church of Spilled Blood is a small but
excellent local arts and crafts market. Put your
bargaining hat on, and be wary of brand name
counterfeits. Central St Petersburg is also home to
several mega department stores, the most famous
of which is the elegantly restored Bolshoy Gostiny
Dvor, a magnificent landmark and centre of trade
for 250 years. Favourite St Petersburg mementos
include lacquer boxes, amber from the Baltic Coast,
filigree jewellery, wine, vodka, local chocolate,
traditional Russian puppets and chess sets, and of
course, the ubiquitous matryoshkya nesting dolls.

25

TOURS OF ST PETERSBURG

The streets of St. Petersburg tell many stories, and the best way to unravel the Russian city’s
rich and fascinating history is through a group tour or private expedition. Almost like a living
museum, the city of St. Petersburg and its many tourist attractions are perhaps best seen
through the eyes of a local guide. Whether it’s a visit to the Hermitage Museum or the Peterhof
palace, a small group tour is an intimate way to learn of St. Petersburg’s many legends and
immerse in its thriving culture with fellow travellers. With an abundance of dining, entertainment
and leisure options, there are so many experiences not to be missed. 56th Parallel is a premier
tour company operating in St. Petersburg, and offers a choice of fully escorted tours and private
charters. Visit www.56thparallel.com to see a full list of seasonal tours in St. Petersburg city.


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