Saint Petersburg 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Imperial Heritage

Morning

Afternoon

  • Visit the stunning Winter Palace (Hermitage Museum), former residence of Russian monarchs and one of the largest museums in the world
  • Explore the majestic Palace Square, surrounded by impressive buildings, including the Winter Palace and the General Staff Building

Evening

  • Enjoy a scenic canal cruise along the Moika River to admire the city’s architectural beauty
  • For dinner, head to ** Teplo**, a popular restaurant serving modern Russian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients
  • End your evening with a performance at the renowned Mariinsky Theatre

Transportation:

  • Metro: Take Line 2 (Moskovsko-Petrogradskaya) to Nevsky Prospekt Station or Gostiny Dvor Station
  • Bus/Trolleybus: Routes 3, 7, 22, and 24 stop near Palace Square

Tips:

  • Buy tickets for the Hermitage Museum online in advance to avoid long queues
  • Dress warmly, as Saint Petersburg can be chilly even in summer

Day 2: Artistic Expressions

Morning

  • Visit the Russian Museum, featuring an impressive collection of Russian art from the 10th to 20th centuries
  • Stop by Mikhailovsky Garden, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city

Afternoon

  • Explore the vibrant Nevsky Prospekt, lined with cafes, shops, and historic buildings
  • Visit the iconic Church of the Savior on Blood, known for its stunning mosaics and intricate architecture

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Ginza Project, a trendy restaurant offering international cuisine with a focus on seafood
  • Catch a show or concert at the Oktyabrskiy Big Concert Hall

Transportation:

  • Metro: Take Line 1 (Kirovsko-Vyborgskaya) to Nevsky Prospekt Station or Mayakovskaya Station
  • Bus/Trolleybus: Routes 3, 7, 22, and 24 stop near Nevsky Prospekt

Tips:

  • Be prepared for crowds on Nevsky Prospekt, especially during peak tourist season
  • Don’t miss the stunning views of the Church of the Savior on Blood from across the Griboyedov Canal

Day 3: Imperial Estates

Morning

  • Visit the grand Peterhof Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former summer residence of Russian monarchs (accessible by hydrofoil or bus)
  • Explore the beautiful Lower Park, featuring stunning fountains, gardens, and sculptures

Afternoon

  • Stop by the Catherine Palace in Pushkin, another imperial estate with an impressive Amber Room
  • Visit the charming town of Pushkin, known for its literary history and picturesque architecture

Evening

  • Return to Saint Petersburg and enjoy a farewell dinner at Palkin, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Russian cuisine
  • End your evening with a scenic stroll along the Neva River

Transportation:

  • Hydrofoil: Take a hydrofoil from the Hermitage Embankment to Peterhof Palace (approximately 30 minutes)
  • Bus: Take bus 212 or 224 from Nevsky Prospekt to Pushkin (approximately 1 hour)

Tips:

  • Plan your day according to the palace opening hours and transportation schedules
  • Don’t forget to try some traditional Russian pastries, such as pirozhki or blini, at a local café

Other Essentials

  • Language: While many Saint Petersburg locals speak English, it’s still a good idea to learn basic Russian phrases like “Спасибо” (thank you) and “Пожалуйста” (please)
  • Currency: The Russian ruble is the local currency; credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand
  • Safety: As with any major city, be aware of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, and avoid traveling alone at night

Additional Tips

  • Be prepared for variable weather, as Saint Petersburg can experience sudden rain showers or chilly winds even in summer
  • Consider purchasing a Saint Petersburg Card, which grants access to many attractions and public transportation
  • Don’t miss the stunning sunsets over the Neva River, often around 10-11 pm during the summer months