St. Petersburg 2 Day Itinerary
St. Petersburg 2-Day Itinerary
Day 1
Morning
- 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Idéal, a cozy and stylish café serving Russian and European cuisine.
- 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 street of St. Petersburg, lined with stunning architecture, cafes, and shops.
- 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Explore the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, a beautiful Russian Orthodox church famous for its intricate mosaics.
Evening
- 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Enjoy a traditional Russian dinner at Gosti Restaurant, known for its delicious borscht and beef stroganoff.
- 10:00 PM: Take a romantic evening stroll along the Canal Griboyedova, lined with beautiful bridges and historic buildings.
Day 2
Morning
- 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM: Visit the Peterhof Palace, a stunning royal residence with breathtaking gardens and fountains. Take a hydrofoil from St. Petersburg to Peterhof (approximately 30 minutes).
- 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM: Have lunch at Russky Ampir Restaurant, located in the palace complex, serving traditional Russian cuisine.
Afternoon
- 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Explore the Kunstkamera Museum, a unique museum showcasing unusual and bizarre exhibits.
- 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Take a leisurely walk along the Fontanka River Embankment, offering beautiful views of the city.
Evening
- 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Enjoy a spectacular ballet performance at the Mariinsky Theatre, one of the most famous theaters in Russia.
- 11:00 PM: End your evening with a visit to New Holland Island, a trendy nightlife spot with bars, clubs, and live music.
Accommodation
Consider staying at:
- Hotel Astoria: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of St. Petersburg, offering elegant rooms and excellent service.
- Mama Shelter Hotel: A stylish and budget-friendly hotel with modern rooms and a lively atmosphere.
Transportation
- Metro: St. Petersburg has an efficient metro system, with many stations conveniently located near popular tourist attractions.
- Taxi: Taxis are widely available, but be sure to negotiate the price in advance or use a ride-hailing app like Yandex Taxi.
- Walking: St. Petersburg is a walkable city, and exploring on foot can be a great way to discover its hidden gems.
Things to Know
- Visa Requirements: Check if you need a visa to enter Russia and apply in advance.
- Currency: The Russian ruble (RUB) is the local currency. You can exchange money at banks, currency exchange offices, or use ATMs.
- Language: While many Russians speak some English, it’s still a good idea to learn basic Russian phrases like “спасибо” (thank you) and “извините” (excuse me).
- Dress Code: Dress modestly when visiting churches and museums, and pack layers for unpredictable weather.
Tips
- Buy tickets in advance: Book tickets to popular attractions and performances to avoid long lines.
- Learn some Russian phrases: Show respect for the local culture by learning basic Russian words and phrases.
- Be prepared for crowds: St. Petersburg can be busy, especially during peak tourist season (June to August).
- Try traditional cuisine: Don’t miss the opportunity to try delicious Russian dishes like borscht, beef stroganoff, and blini.
Enjoy your trip to St. Petersburg!