Top 10 Sights and Activities to See and Do in St. Petersburg, Russia

St. Petersburg, Russia is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, and it has something for every kind of traveler. From its iconic landmarks and attractions to its vibrant nightlife and culture, St. Petersburg is a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to explore the historic sites, experience the city’s nightlife, or just take in the breathtaking sights, St. Petersburg has something for you. Here are the top 10 sights and activities to see and do in St. Petersburg, Russia.

1. Visit the Hermitage Museum

The Hermitage Museum is one of St. Petersburg’s most popular attractions and is home to some of Russia’s most important works of art. The museum was founded in 1764 by Catherine the Great and is one of the world’s largest art museums. It houses over 3 million pieces of artwork from all over the world, including works by Rembrandt, Rubens, da Vinci, and many others. Visiting the museum is a must for anyone visiting St. Petersburg. Book a Hermitage Museum tour here.

2. Explore the Peter and Paul Fortress

The Peter and Paul Fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on an island in the Neva River. It was built in 1703 by Peter the Great as a defense against Sweden and has been an important part of St. Petersburg ever since. Today, it serves as a museum and is home to the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul, which is known for its golden spire. Visitors can explore the fortress walls, learn about its history, and take in its stunning views of St. Petersburg. Book a Peter and Paul Fortress tour here.

3. Take a Cruise on the River Neva

The River Neva is one of St. Petersburg’s most iconic sights and there’s no better way to experience it than by taking a cruise on the river. You can enjoy stunning views of the city while taking a leisurely cruise along the river and see some of the city’s most famous landmarks, such as the Winter Palace, the Peter and Paul Fortress, and many others. Book a River Neva cruise here.

4. Admire St. Isaac’s Cathedral

St. Isaac’s Cathedral is one of St. Petersburg’s most recognizable landmarks and one of the largest cathedrals in Europe. Built in 1858 by Tsar Alexander I, it is one of the most beautiful examples of Russian Orthodox church architecture in the world and is known for its stunning gold dome and intricate interior decorations. Visitors can explore the cathedral’s many rooms, enjoy its breathtaking views of St. Petersburg, or simply admire its grandeur from outside. Book a St. Isaac’s Cathedral tour here.

5. Explore Peterhof Palace

Peterhof Palace is one of St. Petersburg’s most popular attractions and was built by Peter the Great as his summer residence in 1714. The palace has several grand rooms, gardens filled with fountains, and breathtaking views of the Gulf of Finland. It is one of the most beautiful palaces in Europe and is a must-see for anyone visiting St. Petersburg. Book a Peterhof Palace tour here.

6. Visit the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood

The Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood is one of St. Petersburg’s most iconic landmarks and was built in memory of Tsar Alexander II who was assassinated nearby in 1881. It is known for its stunning onion-shaped domes and colorful mosaics that adorn its interior walls and ceilings. The church has become an iconic symbol of St. Petersburg and is a must-see for any visitor to the city. Book a Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood tour here.

7. Visit Peter and Paul Cathedral

Peter and Paul Cathedral is located on an island in the middle of St. Petersburg’s Neva River and was built by Peter the Great in 1712 as a symbol of his power over Russia. The cathedral is home to the tombs of all the Tsars from Peter I to Nicholas II and is an important part of Russian history and culture. Visitors can explore its beautiful interior, admire its grand architecture, or simply take in its stunning views of St. Petersburg from outside. Book a Peter and Paul Cathedral tour here.

8. Visit Catherine Palace

Catherine Palace is located on the outskirts of St. Petersburg and was built by Tsar Peter I as a summer residence for his wife Catherine I in 1717. The palace is known for its grand scale, opulent interiors, and stunning gardens that have become an iconic symbol of Russia’s imperial past. Visitors can explore its many rooms, admire its beautiful architecture, or simply take in its breathtaking views of surrounding countryside from outside its walls. Book a Catherine Palace tour here.

9. Enjoy Vodka Tastings

Vodka tasting is one of St. Petersburg’s most popular activities and visitors can sample some of Russia’s finest vodkas while learning about their history and production process from experts in vodka culture and tradition. Vodka tastings are available at many restaurants in St Petersburg as well as at vodka bars throughout the city, so visitors can enjoy vodka in a variety of ways while exploring the city’s vibrant nightlife scene. Book a vodka tasting tour here.

10. Take a Canal Cruise

St Petersburg is known for its many canals that crisscross through the city, giving it an almost Venice-like feel at times, so taking a canal cruise is a great way to explore the city from a different perspective while admiring its beautiful architecture and historic sights along the way. There are many canal cruises available throughout St Petersburg that offer visitors stunning views while they explore some of its most famous landmarks from the water. Book a canal cruise here.

St Petersburg is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, with an abundance of sights and activities to see and do that will appeal to any kind of traveler looking for an unforgettable experience in Russia’s cultural capital city. From exploring its stunning palaces to admiring its iconic monuments or simply taking in its breathtaking views from a boat cruise on the River Neva, there’s something for everyone in St Petersburg!