Saint Petersburg-2-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Imperial St. Petersburg

Morning

  • 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Start the day with a delicious breakfast at Café Idiot, a cozy spot serving traditional Russian dishes like blini and syrniki.
  • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Visit the Hermitage Museum, one of the largest and most famous museums in the world. Be sure to book tickets in advance to avoid long lines.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM: Take a stroll along the Nevsky Prospekt, the main avenue of St. Petersburg, lined with beautiful buildings, shops, and cafes.
  • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Explore the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, a stunning example of Russian Orthodox architecture.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Enjoy a traditional Russian dinner at Palkin Restaurant, known for its delicious pelmeni and friendly service.
  • 10:00 PM: Take a romantic evening stroll along the Canal Griboyedova, admiring the city’s beautiful architecture and bridges.

Accommodation

  • Stay at Hotel Astoria, a luxurious 5-star hotel located in the heart of St. Petersburg, with elegant rooms and excellent service.

Transportation

  • Use the St. Petersburg Metro, an efficient and affordable way to get around the city.
  • Alternatively, take a taxi or ride-hailing service like Gett or Yandex Taxi.

Things to Know

  • Be prepared for long lines at popular attractions, especially during peak season.
  • Dress modestly when visiting churches and museums.
  • Try to learn some basic Russian phrases, like “спасибо” (thank you) and “пожалуйста” (please).

Tips

  • Buy a St. Petersburg Card, which grants access to many attractions and public transportation.
  • Be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.

Day 2: Imperial Palaces and Gardens

Morning

  • 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Visit the Peterhof Palace, a stunning imperial residence with beautiful gardens and fountains. Take a hydrofoil boat from St. Petersburg to get there.
  • 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM: Explore the Lower Park, featuring numerous sculptures, fountains, and walking paths.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM: Enjoy lunch at Russkaya Arkhitektura, a restaurant serving traditional Russian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
  • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Visit the Catherine Palace, another impressive imperial residence with stunning architecture and gardens.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Enjoy a farewell dinner at ** Teplo Restaurant**, known for its modern Russian cuisine and cozy atmosphere.
  • 10:00 PM: Take a stroll along the Fontanka River, admiring the city’s beautiful bridges and architecture.

Additional Tips

  • Be prepared for variable weather, with layers and waterproof gear.
  • Consider purchasing a guided tour to get more insight into St. Petersburg’s history and culture.
  • Don’t forget to try some traditional Russian desserts like pirozhki or blini!