Dedicated to everyone who wants a more active and unusual holiday, maximally saturated with different emotions. Become a pilot of a passenger airliner, be temporarily blind and experience this world by touch, shoot from a machine gun, immerse yourself in the amazing worlds of virtual reality, live through the script of a horror movie and much more in a selection of impressive entertainment from Peter Online.
Top 10 must-see places in St. Petersburg
TOP 10 private museums and art exhibition spaces in St. Petersburg
Top 10 virtual reality clubs in St. Petersburg
VR club VRoomGames
St. Petersburg developers have collected the latest technologies from all over the world in the field of virtual reality and created a completely new VR format. You can get together with friends to put on equipment and all together find yourself in a completely different world. In another reality, you can mix, fight villains together, solve riddles, and even heal each other.
The only thing that so far distinguishes new technologies from reality is graphics and insufficient tactile signals. However, the team recently purchased new glasses that transmit images more clearly and guns that vibrate in a special way, sending sensations through the hands to different parts of the body. Technologies are developing, and the developers of VRoom Games have set themselves the goal of remaining at the forefront of the development of the VR world.
It’s nice to know that such developments are being carried out in the Northern capital.
Number of players : up to 4 people simultaneously
Cost : – from 1500 rubles/45 minutes (price for a place in a team of up to 4 people in a VR game with the latest technology) – 300 rubles/30 minutes for games in a VR helmet
Opening hours : Mon-Sun 9:00 - 1:00 Address : Ligovsky Prospekt, 50 building 2 Telephone : +7-812 920-50-80
VRoom Games - VR club with technology for complete immersion in virtual reality
Team games in virtual reality with full immersion
How else to spend a weekend in St. Petersburg
You can come up with a wide variety of options for how to spend a weekend in St. Petersburg. You can devote both days to museums according to your interests, or go to famous country royal residences. Tourists can also experience the region's nature on a weekend getaway.
Museums
A weekend in St. Petersburg can be devoted to museums, which are represented by a wide variety. It is not for nothing that they say about the city that it has a special atmosphere that attracts creators and connoisseurs of art - from classics to avant-garde. Establishments are usually closed 1 weekday per week.
The first public museum was founded by Peter I - this is the famous Kunstkamera with anatomical and zoological rarities, as well as ethnographic collections.
Kunstkamera Photo: © Dmitry Roslik
Art museums are the famous Hermitage with masterpieces of world art, the Russian Museum with works of domestic masters from different times, the Erarta , as well as various palaces that house the collections of large museums. It will be interesting to see the interiors, made in different styles, at the Stieglitz Academy and its museum, go to the Museum-Institute of the Roerich Family or the Matyushin House - a museum of the St. Petersburg avant-garde . The Street Art Museum is dedicated to street art .
Street Art Museum Photo: © krissoln
The Museum of Urban Sculpture is engaged in the restoration and preservation of ancient cemeteries with valuable tombstones, at the Alexander Nevsky Lavra - this is the Necropolis of the 18th century. and Necropolis of Art Masters.
You can learn about different pages in the history of the city in the Museum of the Defense and Siege of Leningrad , in the museum on the cruiser Aurora , in the Museum of the History of St. Petersburg , etc.
The Museum of Music , the Museum of Theater and Musical Art , and the Museum-Apartment of F. Chaliapin are dedicated to the art of music and outstanding figures . Literary themes occupy a special place - in St. Petersburg there are museums of F. M. Dostoevsky , A. S. Pushkin , A. Blok , A. Akhmatova , the necropolis museum “Literary Bridges” , etc.
More details: museums of St. Petersburg
Museum of Urban Sculpture (necropolises at the Alexander Nevsky Lavra) Photo: © Tatyana Lisker
Suburbs
A day off in St. Petersburg is a good opportunity to visit the palace and park ensembles in the surrounding area, famous for their beauty. It is better to plan a visit to one suburb for 1 day. Among the most popular destinations:
- Peterhof . If you spend a weekend in St. Petersburg in May, you will already be able to see the stunning fountains (usually open from late April-May to October). The main fountain structure is the “Grand Cascade” ; excursions are even organized to the grottoes underneath it. In any season you can get to the luxurious Peterhof Palace ; there are other remarkable buildings on the territory of the complex. In the suburb there is also the Cathedral of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul in the neo-Russian style, but, unfortunately, it will not be possible to see it now due to restoration forests.
Grand Cascade in Peterhof Photo: © Sergey Arkhipkin
- Tsarskoe Selo (Pushkin) is a museum-reserve with two magnificent palaces: Catherine and Alexandrovsky . They have picturesque parks of the same name with various pavilions. Pushkin is also home to the Imperial Tsarskoye Selo Lyceum , of which A. S. Pushkin is a famous graduate, and the poet's dacha museum .
- Palace with state halls, ancient sculpture and other works of art brought from Europe was built in Pavlovsk Pavlovsk Park is considered one of the largest landscape parks in Europe.
Other suburban destinations include Gatchina , Oranienbaum , Strelna . If you get to the suburbs by train, you will depart from the Baltic Station .
Detailed advice on what to see in St. Petersburg in 2 days
Pavlovsk Photo: © Nastenka Pavlik
Weekend hikes in St. Petersburg
Those who have visited the “northern capital” more than once and seen the main attractions may be interested in the option of active recreation. These can be either 1-day destinations or for both days. Such weekend tours in St. Petersburg will appeal to lovers of northern nature with forests and lakes.
You will see natural beauty while hiking in the Ladoga region . These can be hiking routes along the shores of Lake Ladoga and a pine forest, with climbs to the peaks of the mysterious mountains of Karelia and inspection of granite rocks. A common option is to go to Yastrebinoye Lake and walk along the suspension bridge. The road to this lake from the granite quarry in Kuznechnoye is called the “Ho Chi Minh trail” ; it offers picturesque views of rocks and other lakes.
Hiking to Yastrebinoye Lake Photo: © Anna Kuznetsova
Weekend trips in St. Petersburg are also offered by water - catamarans or kayaks on lakes, rafting on rivers. You can go by boat along the Vuoksa , a river on the Karelian Isthmus, the route lasts about a week, you need special equipment. Tours are organized in the Ladoga Skerries National Park of the Republic of Karelia, suitable for families with children. In winter you can ski here.
Thematic hikes are also organized to places associated with the war - old fortifications and battle sites. It is possible to travel by car through regional villages with abandoned estates or bike tours in the surrounding area.
Weekend in St. Petersburg with children If you are going on a trip with children, the city has a lot of entertainment and attractions that will interest the children. Check out the material on where to take your child in St. Petersburg
Ladoga skerries Photo: © Galina Gorshenina
Excursions in the dark “The world by touch”
A unique space where guests are in absolute darkness, vision is turned off and they need to use all other senses, finding themselves in incredible locations, to adapt and experience the world in a new way. The excursions are conducted by specially trained blind guides.
By the way, the goal of the project is good - to develop tolerance in society towards people with disabilities.
The organizers offer different locations:
— Living room, where you will need to complete an interesting quest; — A busy street that you need to be able to cross; — A market where you can guess spices by smell and fruits by touch; — A park where you can climb into a boat on the water by touch; — A cafe where it’s fun to test your taste buds and spoon-feed your companion; – Tour of the Peter and Paul Fortress in complete darkness – Date in complete darkness – 90 minutes
Ticket prices (weekdays/weekends):
• Adult — 550₽ / 750₽ • Student — 500₽ / 700₽ • School ticket — 450₽ / 500₽ • Individual ticket — 4000₽ / 5000₽
Opening hours: from 10:00 to 22:00 Address: Shopping center Piterland, Primorsky pr., 72, 2nd floor Information and mandatory reservation by phone:
Interactive:
1. Interactive Museum of Science “LabyrinthUm”, Lev Tolstoy St., 9 2. Tarabum Museum-Theater of Animation, Tverskaya St., 23-25 (entrance from Odesskaya St.) 3. Fairy Tale House, Alexandrovsky Park, 1a 4. Tvorchesky St. .Verbnaya, 27 5. Interactive scientific and entertainment 6. Museum of Optics, Birzhevaya Line, 14, entrance by prior request by phone: 457-17-79 7. Excursion to , registration 329 23 23, Repishchev St., 18 8. Excursion to the “Imperial Porcelain Factory”, booking by phone: 326-17-43, Obukhovskaya Oborona Ave., 151 9. Excursion to the Hyundai automobile plant, booking by phone: 418-01-00 10. Excursion to the “Krupskaya Factory”, booking by phone: 329-14-00, Sotsialisticheskaya st., 21 11. Excursion to Wimm-Bill-Dann, make an appointment by phone: 718-53-61 12. Excursion to Coca-Cola, make an appointment by phone: 363 -10-21, Pulkovskoe highway, 50
Amusement park Divo Island
Children's attractions, family attractions, extreme attractions - more than 45 entertainments for every taste and color. Vivid impressions for all ages are guaranteed regardless of the choice of venues.
In addition to the attractions, children can enjoy a playground with interactive educational modules, animators and entertainment programs.
Having opened in 2003, during its existence Divo Ostrov managed to receive the title of the best amusement park in Russia several times.
Working hours:
During the summer months the park is open seven days a week. From Monday to Friday from 12:00 to 22:00, on weekends and holidays - from 11:00 to 23:00 In winter - open only on weekends from 12:00 to 19:00
Prices : from 150 to 400 rubles per attraction Address : metro station Krestovsky Island Telephone
List of interesting sights of St. Petersburg
It will take more than one day to fully get to know St. Petersburg. No other city in Russia has such a number of iconic places and historical attractions.
Saint Isaac's Cathedral
Saint Isaac's Cathedral
This is the largest Orthodox church belonging to St. Petersburg. However, nowadays religious services are rarely held within the walls of the cathedral; the building has been converted for the needs of a museum. The museum's collection contains many ancient icons, church utensils, silver crosses, religious books, clergy robes, dishes, and mosaics. Construction of the cathedral began in 1818 and lasted 40 years. In 1858, the temple was consecrated in the name of St. Isaac of Dalmatia, a Christian monk who founded a monastery on the outskirts of Constantinople. The best reason to visit St. Isaac's Cathedral is to climb the temple colonnade. From here you can enjoy a magical all-round panorama of the city with its golden spiers and colorful roofline.
Eliseevsky store
Eliseevsky store
There are many beautiful buildings on Nevsky Prospekt in St. Petersburg, but even against their background, the store of the Eliseev merchants stands out. The monument of early modern architecture was erected in 1903 according to the design of G.V. Baranovsky. The store immediately became the most luxurious building of its time, designed to emphasize the high status of the trading partnership and attract customers. Stained glass windows, crystal and metal candelabra, mosaics on the walls, sculptures on the facade, and a marble staircase make an indelible impression. Currently, the store is more focused on selling food products, especially delicious baked goods and ice cream. In addition, the store sells souvenirs that you can purchase as a souvenir of your trip to the city on the Neva.
State Russian Museum
State Russian Museum
The Russian Museum is the largest collection of Russian art in the world. Among the museum's exhibits are works of painting, sculpture, numismatics, decorative and applied arts, folk art and household items. The rich collection of ancient church icons, the earliest examples of which date back to the 12th century, deserves special attention. The exhibition of the Russian Museum includes works by outstanding artists: K. Bryullov, I. Aivazovsky, V. Surikov, V. Pukirev, I. Kramskoy, V. Vasnetsov, I. Repin, V. Serov. The number of masterpieces increases with each visit to the hall of the museum, located in the building of the Mikhailovsky Palace. The Mikhailovsky Garden is adjacent to the palace. This is one of the most landscaped parks in St. Petersburg, where you can take a break from the city noise.
Tsarskoye Selo
Catherine Palace
Tsarskoye Selo is located in the city of Pushkin near St. Petersburg. Here is the former royal residence, which was turned into a museum after the arrival of Soviet power. Two palaces were erected for the residence of members of the royal family: the Catherine Palace with a park and the Alexander Palace with a park. Both palaces are evidence of the enormous wealth and power of the imperial family in Russia. The Catherine Palace was erected by order of Catherine I, then rebuilt several times. And in 1752, F. Rastrelli gave it its final appearance. The main attraction of the palace is the Amber Room. The museum guides will definitely tell the story of its creation, tragic loss during the Great Patriotic War and restoration. It is better to set aside a full day to visit Tsarskoye Selo. This is enough not only to view the palace exposition, walk through one of the most beautiful landscape parks, but also for a leisurely picnic in nature.
Church of St. Anne
Church of St. Anne
This is one of the most mysterious attractions that belongs to St. Petersburg. The Lutheran Church was built at the beginning of the 18th century. During its existence, it has experienced many disasters, from closure under Soviet rule to a cinema under church vaults. The latest tragic event almost destroyed the architectural pearl of St. Petersburg. In 2002, there was a fire in the church building. His traces still remain on the walls and ceiling of the temple. Peeling plaster, a black pattern of fire on a once white surface, two spiral staircases, mysterious twilight and many legends await visitors inside the Church of St. Anne. If you don’t believe in mysticism, then you can come here for exhibitions, concerts, and fairs. Part of the funds from these events goes to the restoration of the temple.
Erarta Museum of Contemporary Art
Erarta Museum of Contemporary Art
This is one of the most visited museums in St. Petersburg and at the same time the largest private museum of contemporary art in Russia. The history of the museum began ten years ago and since then exhibitions, theatrical performances, concerts, educational events, and author meetings have become an integral part of the museum space and the cultural life of the city. The Erarta collection includes works by Russian artists, sculptors, graphic artists, and photographers. Among the museum's exhibits there are installations that ask and answer complex philosophical questions: who we are, where we came from, why we live, how life began, the inevitability of death, loneliness and love. The museum presents works by both recognized masters of contemporary art and unknown authors.
New Holland
New Holland
This is one of the best public spaces in St. Petersburg. New Holland is an island shaped like a triangle. The island is framed on three sides by the Moika River and two canals: Kryukov and Admiralteysky. For most of its existence, the island was closed to general visitors. At first there were warehouses for the needs of the shipyard, repair shops and workshops for the construction of ships. During the First World War, a powerful military radio station appeared on the island. And now, almost three hundred years later, New Holland opened its doors to the public after a large-scale reconstruction. Historic red brick and granite buildings have been converted into concert venues, shops, cafes and restaurants. Festivals, film screenings, sporting events, and master classes are regularly held here. There is everything you need to spend your time productively and take a break from the city noise. Visitors can spend the day basking on the green grass, playing table tennis, sunbathing on a pontoon near the pool, visiting the museum, and having a delicious lunch in one of the many cafes.
Faberge Museum
Faberge Museum
This is a private museum in St. Petersburg, which is located in a 19th century palace. The collection is based on works by the famous Russian jeweler Carl Faberge. More than 4,000 pieces of art are stored in exquisite halls and galleries. There is everything here: from paintings, porcelain and items made of precious metals. The most valuable are the nine Easter eggs created for the last two Russian emperors. All of them are masterpieces of jewelry and the unsurpassed skill of Carl Faberge.
Divo Ostrov
Divo Ostrov
Divo Island is one of the best amusement parks in the country. This is one of the many places in the city where you can go as a couple, with a fun group or with children. The amusement park is located in the very center of St. Petersburg among the greenery of Krestovsky Island. On its territory there are 46 attractions for every taste. Extreme sports enthusiasts try their hand at the Catapult, Booster, Rocket and Big Russian Hill. Children's karting, a children's playground, the Chukh-Chuk train, and the Cheerful Spring are available for children. Be sure to take a ride on the Ferris wheel to enjoy a bird's eye view of the city.
Kazan Cathedral
Kazan Cathedral
This is one of the largest Orthodox churches in the city. It is dedicated to the miraculous icon of the Kazan Mother of God, which is considered one of the most revered in Russia. The laying of the first stone at the foundation of the cathedral was carried out in 1801 in the presence of Emperor Alexander I. The architect of the future landmark of St. Petersburg was the former serf A.N. Voronikhin. Beginning in 1812, the cathedral began to be perceived by contemporaries as the main monument to the military glory of the Russian people in the Patriotic War. The temple became a storage place for military trophies: French banners, keys to conquered cities of France, personal belongings of Napoleon's marshals. In 1813, Field Marshal M.I. was buried here. Kutuzov. With the advent of Soviet power, the Kazan Cathedral was turned into the Museum of the History of Religion and Atheism. The return of the temple to believers took place only in 1991. The unusual architecture of the cathedral with a colonnade and an easily recognizable dome has become the hallmark of St. Petersburg.
Kunstkamera
Kunstkamera
A prerequisite for an exciting excursion around St. Petersburg is visiting museums. Fortunately, there are many of them in the city: for every taste and request. The Kunstkamera is one of the first museums in the city. Peter the Great had a hand in its foundation. The museum is best known for its collection of “freaks”: deformed mutant animals, conjoined twins, “Cyclops”, “mermaid children”. This part of the Kunstkamera should not be visited with small children, impressionable people and pregnant women. Many visitors find this particular exhibition interesting, although there are other equally unusual exhibits. For example, this is a collection of objects seized from the palace of the ruler of Benin.
Great Gatchina Palace
Great Gatchina Palace
Near St. Petersburg is located one of the most unusual palaces of the 18th century. This is the Great Gatchina Palace, which was built by order of Empress Catherine the Great for her favorite Count G.G. Orlova. Architect A. Rinaldi created a huge and at the same time quite modest facade with access to the parade ground. The palace amazingly combines the motifs of a medieval castle with elements of a classical royal residence. After the death of Count Orlov, the Empress bought the palace from his heirs and gave it to her son Paul I for use. Inside, visitors will find huge state rooms, including the throne room of Paul I, decorated with tapestries. The most impressive of all is the White Room with its stucco work, marble sculptures and original fireplace.
Loft Project Floors
Loft Project Floors
This is one of the new attractions in St. Petersburg. It appeared in 2007 on the territory of a former bakery. The industrial building was turned into a creative platform with a rich cultural program. On five floors there are workshops, designer clothing stores, conceptual cafes, recreation areas, a gallery, an exhibition space, and a hostel. During the summer months, the roof of the building is open to all visitors. From here you can enjoy a magical panorama of the city and the bustling Ligovsky Prospekt. Open-air concerts also take place here. For meetings with friends, the Anti-Cafe will be an ideal place, where you can not only eat, but also have fun playing board games.
Grand Model Russia
Grand Model Russia
Russia in all its splendor and grandeur - from grandiose industrial giants to golden domes - is demonstrated in an interactive miniature model. Special attention is paid here to St. Petersburg and its iconic places. As you walk along the miniature landscape, pay attention to the moving details. Some of them are configured to work automatically, while some can be controlled independently. Tiny trains ply through the countryside, planes take off and land over St. Petersburg, tractors slowly cultivate arable land, cars drive along mountain serpentine roads. The level of detail is amazing, from the homes with playgrounds to the clothes people wear.
Summer garden
Summer garden
Shady green gardens appeared on the map of St. Petersburg at the request of Peter I. Landscape designers designed the garden in the Dutch Baroque style, using geometric lines as the basis. The garden is decorated with numerous sculptures, pavilions, and fountains. The marble busts and statues that are now located in the Summer Garden are copies; all the originals are kept in the Mikhailovsky Castle. The summer garden was created as part of the royal residence, where the emperor could spend time in peace and quiet. In the 20th century, the garden was open to everyone, which immediately made this place popular among residents for a promenade.
St. Petersburg Cathedral Mosque
St. Petersburg Cathedral Mosque
This is another interesting attraction that you can visit in the city. The mosque was opened in 1913 and immediately became the largest in Russia. The height of the central dome is 39 meters, it is clearly visible from anywhere on the Petrograd side. Unlike the golden dome of St. Isaac's Cathedral, the dome of the Cathedral Mosque has a bright azure color with traditional oriental patterns. Two minarets rise above the dome, they scratch the sky at a height of 48 meters. The mosque can accommodate up to 5,000 believers. Inside there is a division into male and female parts, which is a tribute to the traditional structure of mosques.
Naval St. Nicholas Cathedral (Kronstadt)
Naval St. Nicholas Cathedral (Kronstadt)
Near St. Petersburg on the island of Kotlin there is a large seaport, which was named Kronstadt. There is no regular water communication between Kronstadt and St. Petersburg; you can get there as part of a sea excursion or drive yourself by private car. Inspection of the Naval Cathedral is the main goal of all tourists arriving on the island. Built between 1903 and 1913 St. Nicholas Cathedral has unusual architecture. It is based on a mixture of two styles: neo-Byzantine and Romanesque with the interweaving of traditional Russian elements. The cathedral is dedicated to all sailors who died fulfilling their duty to their homeland. Behind the beautiful façade lies an equally impressive interior. There are tall columns on the marble floors, the walls are decorated with mosaics and decorated with stucco. Huge chandeliers sparkle under the cathedral ceiling, creating a lot of glare.
Alexander Nevsky Lavra
Alexander Nevsky Lavra
This is the most important spiritual center of the Russian Orthodox Church. The monastery was founded in 1710 by decree of Peter the Great. Its construction took place at the height of the Northern War, which Russia waged with Sweden. The place for construction was not chosen by chance; it was here in 1240 that Alexander Nevsky defeated the Swedes during the Battle of the Neva. The monastery occupied the territory between the Neva and the Black River, becoming not only the spiritual center of St. Petersburg, but also a powerful fortification. In 1797, the monastery received the status of a monastery for its significant contribution to the spiritual life of society. The central building of the monastery is the Trinity Cathedral. This is a single-domed temple, decorated with two bell towers. G. Fontana, G. Ugryumov, I. Akimov worked on its decoration. Of particular interest are the necropolises located on the territory of the monastery, as well as burials inside the cathedrals. Many prominent figures of Russia found their final rest here: M.V. Lomonosov, D.I. Fonvizin, K.I. Rossi, S.Yu. Witte, A.V. Suvorov.
Oceanarium "Neptune"
The only oceanarium in St. Petersburg and the first in Russia is located in the city center. 2 thousand specimens of freshwater and marine fish, aquatic invertebrates, and mammals belonging to more than 200 species swim in 50 aquariums.
Ticket prices:
— adult : from 700₽ — children 5-6 years old and beneficiaries : 250₽ — children from 7 years old : from 500₽ — children under 4 years old : free — pensioners : 350₽
Opening hours : Mon-Sun 10:00 – 20:00 Address : st. Marata, 86 Telephone
Where to go as a child in St. Petersburg
Where to go on a weekend in St. Petersburg
The main attractions of the city are architectural structures that can be seen no matter what day of the week it is. A weekend tour in St. Petersburg definitely includes a walk along Nevsky Prospekt , a famous street where almost every building has historical and cultural value. Here there are mansions, palaces, churches, bridges, the most famous are the Anichkov Bridge , the shop of the Eliseev merchants , the Kazan Cathedral , the house , the Stroganov Palace . It is also worth taking a walk along the avenue in the evening. If you come in the warm season, take a boat trip along the rivers and canals of the city, and also look at the construction of bridges.
House Photo: © Tatyana Lisker
Admiralty
Where to go on the weekend in St. Petersburg? Head to the iconic complex of buildings on the banks of the Neva - the Admiralty of St. Petersburg. Under Peter I, a shipyard was built here; subsequently the purpose of the place changed, but the connection with the maritime theme always remained. Now it is the headquarters of the Navy.
On the spire of the main building you can see a figurine of a ship - this weather vane has become one of the recognizable symbols of the city. The facade is also decorated with sculptures of nymphs and bas-reliefs. Not far from the Admiralty there is a monument to the founder of the city, “The Bronze Horseman ,” erected on the orders of Catherine II.
Details: Admiralty
View of the Admiralty buildings from the Neva Photo: © Tatyana Lisker
Saint Isaac's Cathedral
One of the symbols of the city is St. Isaac's Cathedral , which has the status of a museum-monument (entrance is paid). Today we see a temple erected in honor of Saint Isaac of Dalmatia, revered by Peter I, whose memorial day coincides with the Tsar’s birthday. The modern temple, the fourth, was erected in 1858 on the site of two churches and a cathedral dedicated to St. Isaac.
It is worth going here to appreciate the magnificent decoration of the cathedral. Various types of colored stone were used in decoration and construction, and several types of marble were used in decoration. The temple is also decorated with 62 skillfully made mosaics, wall paintings and paintings, sculptures, and stained glass. The circular composition of the ceiling of the main dome was designed by K. Bryullov. The appearance of the cathedral is notable for its 48 granite columns and chips left after the war. If you come to St. Petersburg for the weekend, it’s worth going up to the circular observation deck overlooking the city and the Neva (separate ticket). The museum's day off is Wednesday.
Details: St. Isaac's Cathedral
St. Isaac's Cathedral Photo: © Elena Orlova
Palace Square
Where to go on a weekend in St. Petersburg? Palace Square is beautiful on any day . Its ensemble consists of the luxurious green and white Winter Palace , the General Staff with a triumphal arch, the headquarters of the Guards Corps and the Alexander Column in the center of the square.
This is one of the favorite places for tourists - here you can take beautiful photographs of the main attractions of the city, and visit the famous Hermitage with a valuable collection of art. It’s worth staying in the square to see the architectural ensemble from different angles; closer to the river there are souvenir stalls and sellers of boat trips.
More details: Palace Square
Palace Square Photo: © Tatyana Lisker
Savior on Spilled Blood
A trip to St. Petersburg is not complete without a visit to the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood , which also functions as a memorial museum (admission paid). It was erected on the site of the assassination of Emperor Alexander II from a terrorist bomb explosion. The architecture shows features of the traditional Russian style; many compare the building with St. Basil's Cathedral in Moscow. The onion domes are covered with multi-colored enamel and decorated with different designs.
The Savior on Spilled Blood is unique for its expressive mosaics that decorate the temple outside and inside. Sketches for them were created by famous artists, and the competition for execution was won by the Frolovs’ workshop. In the temple, a canopy on columns was erected over the place where the emperor was mortally wounded.
More details: Savior on Spilled Blood
Inside the Savior on Spilled Blood Photo: © Irina Dementieva
Spit of Vasilyevsky Island
Where to go in St. Petersburg on the weekend on the second day? To see the main attractions, head to the islands across the Neva from Palace Square. You can cross the Blagoveshchensky Bridge to the University Embankment with the Menshikov Palace , the Kunstkamera and other interesting houses. The embankment will lead you to one of the most famous places in the city - the Spit of Vasilievsky Island .
Here are the Exchange and two rostral columns , which once served as lighthouses. They are decorated with captured parts of ships - rostras and sculptures. From Strelka you can see the beauty of the Palace Embankment and the Peter and Paul Fortress . It is also one of the main venues for major celebrations, along with Palace Square.
More details: Spit of Vasilyevsky Island
Spit of Vasilyevsky Island Photo: © Tatyana Lisker
Peter-Pavel's Fortress
On Hare Island there is the Peter and Paul Fortress - an object on the “must see” list during a weekend tour in St. Petersburg. It is from the day of its foundation that the history of the city begins. You can enter the fortress freely on any day. You must pay for entrance to historical buildings and museums on the territory; you can buy a comprehensive ticket. The complex ticket also includes an excursion to the Peter and Paul Cathedral (where Russian emperors are buried) with the Grand Ducal Tomb and to the Trubetskoy Bastion prison , where various political prisoners were kept.
In the warm season (from May to October), you can climb to the bell tower of the cathedral, where an exposition about the construction of the bell tower is located and from where a view of the city opens. You can spend several hours in the fortress; if you have time, walk along Petrogradsky Island with the Cathedral Mosque , the house of Peter I and go to the cruiser Aurora .
More details: Peter and Paul Fortress
Peter and Paul Fortress Photo: © Tatyana Lisker
Space “Territory of Mysticism”
Guests of the space find themselves in a real and very realistic horror movie scenario, where the participants are the main characters. The performances combine theatrical performances and horror quests. I invite visitors to become part of the theatrical action or play the exciting quest “Ghostly Hide and Seek”.
It will definitely be scary here. Visiting is available for both children and adults. There is a gradation by age. It is better to come in groups of 4-6 people, but you can go alone or as a couple, they will be assigned to other participants.
Prices for performances for adults - 550 rubles, children from 350 rubles, hide and seek - 2800 rubles for a company of 4-6 people. If you want more participants, you will have to pay an additional 700 rubles for each subsequent one.
Opening hours: weekdays from 14 to 20 hours, on weekends, holidays and school holidays: from 10 to 21 hours Address: Engels Ave., 154, Prospekt Prosveshcheniya metro station, Grand Canyon shopping center Telephone:
Miscellaneous:
1. Planetarium, Alexandrovsky Park, 4 2. Grand Maket Russia, Tsvetochnaya street, 16 3. Smesharikov Studio, Chapaeva street, 17 4. Russian village Shuvalovka, St. Petersburg highway, 111 5. Norwegian rope park in Orekhovo 6. “Literally ", book club-store, Malaya Sadovaya street, 1 (in the building of the Health Committee) 7. Rock climbing, Bronnitskaya street, 24 8. Historical Viking Age estate "Svargas", 9 km. Svetogorskoe Highway 9. Chaplin Hall, holiday performances, Pirogovskaya embankment, 5/2 (opposite Aurora) 10. Loft Project ETAGI, Ligovsky Prospekt, 74
Gorilla Park
A large space with many activities for children and adults - trampolines, climbing wall. rope parks. laser tag, slides and much more. A great way to spend time actively and intensely.
The price for visiting the entire park for the whole day is 650 rubles, for children from 3 years old for special areas for children - 400 rubles, for an accompanying person without visiting the attractions - 300 rubles
Opening hours: 10:00-22:00 Address: Shopping and entertainment complex “5 Ozers”, Dolgoozernaya street, 14, 4th floor Telephone:
Theater:
1. Such a Theater , takes place at various venues (Dostoevsky Museum, V.F. Komissarzhevskaya Theater, etc.) 2. Theater "Stray Dog", Stachek Avenue, 59 3. Bolshoi Puppet Theater, Nekrasova Street, 10 4. Theater Fairy tales, Moskovsky Prospekt, 121 5. Clown-mime theater "Mimigrants", Rizhsky Prospekt, 23 6. Puppet Theatre, Nevsky Prospekt, 52 7. Children's Integration Puppet Theater, Jacques Duclos Street, 6 8. Theater "Beyond the Black River" , Bogatyrsky Prospekt, 4 9. Youth Theater (Theater of Young Spectators named after A.A. Bryantsev), Pionerskaya Square, 1 10. Music Hall Theater, Alexander Park, 4 11. Theater "BUFF", Zanevsky Prospekt, 26 12. Mikhailovsky Theater, Arts Square, 1 13. Interior Theater, Nevsky Prospekt, 104 14. Karlsson Haus Theater, Fontanka River embankment, 50 15. Philharmonic of Jazz Music, Zagorodny Prospekt, 27 16. Maly Drama Theater (Theater of Europe), st. Rubinshteina, 14 17. Musical theater for children and adults “Carambol”, Rizhsky Prospekt, 3, lit.L 18. Fountain House of A. Akhmatova, Liteiny Prospekt, 53 (under the arch) 19. Theater “Subbota”, Zvenigorodskaya Street, 30 20. Theater of Musical Comedy, st. Italianskaya, 13 21. Lycedeev Theater, Lev Tolstoy Street, 9 22. Hand Made Theater, performing on different stages 23. ART-, Lev Tolstoy Street, 9 24. Theater of Dramatic Improvisations, Stachek Avenue, 72, House of Culture named after. Gaza 25. Rock Opera Theater 26. Smart Theater, Vladimirsky Prospekt, 19
Dream Aero flight simulator
Flying on a passenger plane as a pilot
Here you can make your dream come true and play the role of a pilot flying a passenger airliner. Fly in the endless sky at high altitude above your favorite cities of the world and then land at any airport in the world. A real pilot will teach you how to fly the plane, and you will fly on a passenger airliner flight simulator, which is used to train real pilots.
This simulator meets the requirements of Doc 9625 ICAO FSTD Type VII in almost all respects, that is, it corresponds to the highest degree of reality, which are used in professional pilot training.
Prices: 4900 rubles for 30 minutes of flight. You can take more time or take a full pilot course.
Opening hours: daily, 10:00 - 22:00 Address: TRC RIO, st. Fuchika, 2 Phone:
Military club "Cyber Fox"
Large laser tag area
On an area of 1300 square meters, you can become a real hero and play war with your friends, painlessly, but quite realistically. On the playground, you can easily recreate scenarios from famous computer shooters with defusing a bomb, freeing hostages, capturing a building and fighting monsters and the walking dead.
Laser tag (laser paintball) is a high-tech form of recreation associated with unforgettable, vibrant battles. Compared to other combat simulators, laser paintball is one of the safest. During the shootouts, ammunition that can injure the player is not used here - shootouts are carried out using laser weapons.
Cost per person (weekdays/weekends):
— 1 game (9-12 minutes) — 150₽ / 200₽ — 2 games (18-25 min) — 250₽ / 350₽ — 60 minutes — 600₽ / 800₽ You can also order different game scenarios for the company, such like Counter-strike or Stalker
Opening hours: Mon-Fri: 14:00 – 20:00, Sat-Sun: 11:00 – 20:00 Address: Shopping and entertainment complex “Piterland”, Primorsky prospect, 72, minus the second floor, BUNKER Details by phone: 385-73 -89
Interesting places in St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg is no stranger to surprising tourists. Canals, drawbridges, white nights, ancient temples, noble estates, royal residences, museums, galleries - it would take a month to see everything.
Mikhailovsky Castle
Mikhailovsky Castle
This is a gloomy castle, which is surrounded on all sides by an artificial moat. It was built by order of Emperor Paul I. Construction was carried out at an accelerated pace: both day and night. The emperor sought to complete construction as quickly as possible in order to move to his new residence. The work was completed in 1801. However, the emperor was not able to enjoy his brainchild; he lived in it for only 40 days, where he was killed by the conspirators in March of the same year. After the assassination of Paul I, the castle was abandoned, and the royal family refused to live in it. In 1819, the castle housed the Nikolaev Engineering School, which trained military personnel. During its existence, Mikhailovsky Castle was rebuilt several times; for example, ditches were filled in and drawbridges were eliminated. Currently, the castle is a branch of the Russian Museum. It is worth a visit for the beautifully restored Throne Hall of Empress Maria Feodorovna and the Oval Hall.
Pavlovsk (museum-reserve)
Pavlovsk (museum-reserve)
This is another iconic place near St. Petersburg, associated with the name of Emperor Paul I. In Pavlovsk there is a palace and park ensemble that served as the royal summer residence. Construction of the palace began in the 18th century under Catherine II. Architects C. Cameron, V. Brenna, G. Quarenghi and C. Rossi worked on the project. The golden palace was erected on the banks of the Slavyanka River. The main building consists of three floors, which are crowned by a flat dome. On both sides of the central building there are galleries framed by snow-white columns. Around the palace there is a landscaped park decorated with sculptures, pavilions and monuments. During the Great Patriotic War, the palace and park were badly damaged. Currently, the halls of the palace have been restored and appear before visitors in all their splendor. The Italian Hall, the Greek Hall with green marble columns, the State Bedchamber, and Maria Feodorovna's Boudoir make an indelible impression on all visitors to the palace.
* There is a railway connection between St. Petersburg and Pavlovsk, which allows you to visit the palace and park ensemble on your own.
Bronze Horseman
Bronze Horseman
This is the most famous statue of Peter the Great. Its opening took place in 1782. The material for making the monument was not copper, but bronze. And the name “Bronze Horseman” appeared with a light stroke of the pen of A.S. Pushkin and the poem of the same name written by him. The monument was made by sculptor E. Falconet by order of Empress Catherine II. The pedestal for the sculpture is a huge megalith found near St. Petersburg. A complex logistics operation was carried out to transport it to the capital. Many legends were born around the Bronze Horseman. One of them says that as long as the monument is in its place, St. Petersburg has nothing to fear, since it is under the protection of Peter I.
Lakhta Center
Lakhta Center
This is a modern landmark of St. Petersburg, which is located in the Primorsky district. Lakhta Center is a whole complex of public buildings located in a huge skyscraper. The height of the building is 462 meters. Due to the scale of the skyscraper, many residents opposed its construction, believing that it would spoil the historical appearance of the Northern capital. Under the roof of the building there is an observation deck, a planetarium, a children's science center, Gazprom headquarters, a sports center, a medical center, a panoramic restaurant, cafes and shops.
Vyborg Castle
Vyborg Castle
Near St. Petersburg, on a small island in the Gulf of Finland, there is a castle that was built at the end of the 13th century by the Swedes. The latter captured these lands from Veliky Novgorod and built their outpost here. Despite all their efforts, the Novgorodians were never able to regain this territory. What the Novgorodians failed to do, Peter the Great accomplished during the Northern War. The castle was built according to the latest military engineering of its time: powerful fortress walls, a high donjon in the center. Vyborg Castle could withstand a long siege and remain impregnable. The castle underwent significant reconstructions in the 16th century, most of which form the modern appearance of the citadel. It’s a special pleasure to climb the steep steps to the observation deck of St. Olaf’s Tower, from where a stunning panorama of the surrounding area opens up.
Smolny Institute
Smolny Institute
The building of the Smolny Institute was erected between 1806 and 1808. designed by the architect G. Quarenghi. This is the first higher educational institution created for “noble maidens.” Girls entered college at the age of 6 years. The training continued until the age of 18. Among the compulsory subjects, they studied the Law of God, home economics, geography, foreign languages, history, music, dancing, and painting. At the end of the educational institution, exams were taken, which were often attended by members of the imperial family. In 1917, the Smolny Institute became the main center of revolutionary life in Petrograd. Decrees on peace and land were adopted here, Bolshevik congresses were held here, and V. Lenin’s headquarters was located here. After the capital was moved to Moscow, the building of the Smolny Institute became home to the Leningrad City Council of Deputies. The administrative building is still used today; the residence of the governor is located here.
Palace Bridge
Raising the bridge
It is not for nothing that St. Petersburg is famous as the Venice of the North. A huge number of rivers, canals and bridges make up its architectural core. No trip to St. Petersburg would be complete without attending the bridge raising ceremony. This is both a spectacular and extremely interesting procedure, which has long become the calling card of the Northern capital. Most of the drawbridges cross the Bolshaya Neva, Malaya Neva and Neva. Divorce occurs at night to ensure navigation on the rivers. The current schedule can be found on the Mostotrest website. For example, the Palace Bridge, which is most popular among residents and tourists for watching the divorce, rises at 1:35 and 3:20, and descends at 2:45 and 4:50. So, having watched the opening of the Palace Bridge once, you can stay for the second ceremony.
Lumiere Hall
Lumiere Hall
St. Petersburg has the glory of being the cultural capital of Russia. Numerous museums, galleries, exhibition halls, and theaters make a great contribution to this title. Lumiere Hall is one of the creative spaces where interactive and multimedia exhibitions are held. The main specialization of Lumiere Hall has become the provision of famous paintings by artists in unusual content. Visitors will be treated to 3D projections in 360º format with audio commentary and music. Interestingly, such exhibitions are called “living canvases.” Recent installations include works by Aivazovsky, Kandinsky, Van Gogh, Banksy.
Anichkov Bridge
Anichkov Bridge
Walking around St. Petersburg, travelers find themselves in the most beautiful places. Anichkov Bridge is one of them. This is a small arched bridge over the Fontanka River that connects Spassky and Bezymyanny Islands. It is decorated with the famous sculptures “The Taming of a Horse by Man” by P.K. Klodt. These are four sculptures that personify the four stages of conquering a horse by man. The composition is structured in such a way that, moving from one sculpture to another, a passerby can read the whole story of struggle and subjugation. The sculptures were made of bronze. No additional frame was used in their creation, which makes the entire four even more outstanding work.
Champ de Mars
Champ de Mars
This is one of the most beautiful parks in the Northern capital. Green lawns, an abundance of bushes and trees make this place an ideal option for athletes, lovers of summer tanning and picnics in nature. Many townspeople come here to get some fresh air, read a book or meet friends. The Champ de Mars is not only a public park, but also a necropolis. There is a memorial to the victims of the February and October revolutions and the Civil War. Many prominent revolutionaries found their final rest here. For example, M.S. Uritsky, V. Volodarsky, S.M. Nakhimson, Latvian riflemen. The Field of Mars can be used as a starting point for a walk around St. Petersburg: within walking distance are the Summer Garden, the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, Mikhailovsky Castle, the Russian Museum, the Faberge Museum, the Kazan Cathedral, and the Peter and Paul Fortress.
Great Menshikov Palace (Oranienbaum)
Great Menshikov Palace (Oranienbaum)
There are several palace and park ensembles near St. Petersburg, Oranienbaum is one of them. The pearl of the complex is the Grand Palace and the park around it. The palace was built by the will of Peter the Great's closest associate, Alexander Menshikov. Construction began in 1711 and was completed by 1727. A two-story building was erected on a natural hill according to the design of the architect I.G. Shedelya. The central building is adjacent to galleries with pavilions. Marble, Dutch tiles, stucco, gold, tapestries, mosaics, and sculptures were used to decorate the interior. A. Menshikov ordered an amazingly beautiful iconostasis for the church; unfortunately, it has not survived to this day. Oranienbaum was lucky; the palace was not damaged during the Great Patriotic War and has reached us in its original form, with the exception of most of the interior decoration. There is a park around the palace, which occupies an area of 162 hectares. There is a convenient walking route through the park with an inspection of all significant places, pavilions, and fountains.
"Labyrinth of Fear"
Scary sounds, barely glowing lights, unpredictable traps and the atmosphere of Hollywood horror films, deafening screams of frightened but happy visitors. Challenge yourself, find a way out of the maze, dodge scary characters and have a great time.
Visiting the maze of fear from 9 to 12 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
Cost: 350₽ Address : Nevsky pr., 3
Anti-stress attraction “Break the dishes”
Experience unspeakable pleasure and relieve tension by breaking a couple of plates, glasses and vases. It’s exciting, gives pleasant emotions and at the same time it’s safe, which is important and doesn’t really put a strain on your budget.
Cost: 300₽ Opening hours: daily from 12:00 to 00:00 Phone: е Address: Nevsky Prospekt, 3
Shooting club "Golden Bullet"
Here visitors are promised pleasure of any caliber. Shoot with pistols, machine guns and even a machine gun, shoot with a bow or crossbow, throw knives while dressing as a gangster, cowboy, Viking or policeman. Or maybe try something unusual? Arrange a shooting competition with your friends with your eyes closed, and then play dice with the administrator. At the same time, everything is safe and takes place under the strict supervision of professionals.
Price:
- pneumatic shooting: 1-99 shots - 15₽/shot, 100-999 shots - 10₽/shot, more than 1000 shots - 5₽/shot - archery and crossbow shooting: 1 shot - 30₽ - knife throwing: 30 minutes - 500₽ - With your own weapons and ammunition - 500₽/hour. Discussed in advance with the shooting range administrator.
Opening hours: daily from 12:00 to 23:00 Address: Konyushennaya Square, 2B, within walking distance from the Gostiny Dvor metro station, exit to the Griboyedov Canal Telephone: +7 911 9073786
Large amusement park MazaPark
A huge active entertainment park with more than 20 attractions and about 100 slot machines: bowling, billiards, snooker, table tennis, darts, roller skating, cyber zone and much more. Visitors describe this place as “a childhood for adults.” Indeed, here everyone will find a game for themselves. Moreover, it is taken into account that adults usually work during the day and the park welcomes guests from 11 to 6 am.
Opening hours: Monday-Friday from 11:00 to 6:00, Saturday-Sunday, holidays and school holidays from 10:00 to 6:00
Entrance cost: from 400₽ to 800₽ depending on the time of day and day of the week Park addresses: Bukharestskaya, 30/32, Ho Chi Minh City, 14a Telephone:
Night skating:
1. Ice arena of the Yubileiny Sports Palace, 498-60-47, Dobrolyubova Avenue, 18 2. Skating rink of the Figure Skating Academy, Tupolevskaya street, 4 3. Skating rink on the Fontanka, 316-20-81, Fontanka River embankment, 112 4. SKA skating rink, Zhdanovskaya embankment, 2 5. Spartak skating rink, 535-28-55, Butlerova street, 36 6. Indoor ice skating rink "Ice Grad", 560-14-36, Obukhovskaya Oborony Avenue, 149 7 Ice skating rink in the ON entertainment center, Obukhovskaya Oborony Avenue, 120 8. Center for Physical Culture, Sports and Health of the Vasileostrovsky District, 322-69-65, Maly Avenue VO, 66 9. Mega Ice skating rink in the LETO shopping mall, 676-65-42, Pulkovskoe highway, 25, building 1 10. Multifunctional entertainment complex "Tavrichesky Garden", 329-55-34, Potemkinskaya street, 4A 11. Ice Arena "Grand Canyon Ice", 332-23-22, Suzdalsky prospect, 29
