St Petersburg 4 Day Itinerary
St. Petersburg 4-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Imperial Heritage
- Morning: Start at the Hermitage Museum (open from 10:30 am), one of the largest and oldest museums in the world, housing over 3 million artworks. Spend a few hours exploring the grandeur of Russian imperial history.
- Lunch: Head to Café Idiot, a cozy spot serving traditional Russian cuisine with a twist.
- Afternoon: Visit the Winter Palace, the former residence of Russian monarchs, and take a stroll along the Neva River embankment.
- Evening: Enjoy a scenic canal cruise (around 1 hour) to see the city’s beauty from a different perspective.
- Accommodation: Stay at Hotel Indigo St. Petersburg, a stylish boutique hotel with comfortable rooms and a great location.
Day 2: Cultural Delights
- Morning: Explore the Russian Museum, featuring an extensive collection of Russian art, including works by Kandinsky, Chagall, and Malevich.
- Lunch: Try some delicious pancakes at Stolle, a popular local chain with multiple locations.
- Afternoon: Visit the Mariinsky Theatre, one of the most famous opera and ballet stages in the world. Take a guided tour or attend a performance (if scheduled).
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at Ginza Project, offering modern Russian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
- Tip: Book tickets for the Mariinsky Theatre well in advance, as performances often sell out quickly.
Day 3: Royal Palaces and Gardens
- Morning: Take a day trip to Peterhof (around 30 minutes by train), a stunning palace and park complex built by Peter the Great. Explore the Grand Palace, gardens, and fountains.
- Lunch: Grab some food at one of the cafes or restaurants in Peterhof.
- Afternoon: Visit the Catherine Palace, another impressive royal residence with opulent interiors and beautiful parks.
- Evening: Return to St. Petersburg and enjoy dinner at Teplo, a cozy restaurant serving modern Russian cuisine.
- Transportation: Use the metro (around 20-30 minutes) or take a taxi to reach Peterhof.
Day 4: Canals, Churches, and Markets
- Morning: Explore the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, a stunning example of Russian Orthodox architecture.
- Lunch: Try some traditional Russian cuisine at Korchma, a rustic-style restaurant with a lively atmosphere.
- Afternoon: Visit the St. Petersburg Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Europe, and take a stroll along the Griboyedov Canal.
- Evening: End your trip with a visit to the Udelnaya Market, a bustling marketplace offering souvenirs, local food, and handicrafts.
- Tip: Be prepared for crowds at the market, and don’t forget to try some traditional Russian street food.
Things to Know
- Visa requirements: Check if you need a visa to enter Russia; e-visas are available for citizens of certain countries.
- Weather: St. Petersburg can be quite chilly, even in summer, so pack accordingly.
- Language: While many locals speak some English, it’s still a good idea to learn basic Russian phrases and download a translation app.
Transportation
- Metro: St. Petersburg has an efficient metro system; buy tickets at the stations or use a contactless payment method.
- Taxi: You can hail a taxi on the street or book in advance through services like Gett or Yandex Taxi.
- Walking: The city is quite walkable, but be prepared for cobblestone streets and uneven sidewalks.
Other Tips
- Dress modestly: When visiting churches or palaces, dress respectfully and avoid revealing clothing.
- Learn some Russian: It will help you navigate the city and show respect for the culture.
- Be prepared for crowds: Popular attractions can be busy, so plan ahead and consider visiting early in the morning or later in the evening.