2-Day Family Adventure: Hidden Gems and Cuisine of Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg, Russia

2 days

Hermitage museum (Winter Palace) on Palace square
Catherine's Palace, the State Hermitage Museum (Winter Palace), Tsarskoye Selo (Pushkin)
Saint Isaac's Cathedral
Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood
Alexander Column and General Staff on Palace Square

About Saint Petersburg, Russia

Experience the grandeur of Saint Petersburg, Russia's cultural heart. Marvel at the city's architectural splendor, from the iconic Winter Palace, housing the Hermitage Museum's vast collection, to the gold-domed St. Isaac's Cathedral. Explore the intricate canal system, earning it the nickname 'Venice of the North'. Visit the Peter and Paul Fortress, the city's original citadel. Enjoy world-class ballet at the Mariinsky Theatre or stroll along the bustling Nevsky Prospect. Immerse yourself in the city's rich history, from its founding by Peter the Great to its role in the Russian Revolution. Whether you're a history buff, art enthusiast, or simply a lover of beautiful cities, Saint Petersburg promises a captivating journey.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Petrogradsky District and Neva River

Morning

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the quiet, cobblestone streets of the Petrogradsky district. This area is less touristy and offers a glimpse into the everyday life of locals. Enjoy the beautiful architecture and small, family-owned shops.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Russian lunch in a local eatery. Try dishes like borscht, pelmeni, and pirozhki. Pair your meal with a glass of local wine or kvass, a traditional fermented beverage.

Afternoon

Visit the Museum of Artillery, Engineers and Signal Corps. This lesser-known museum offers a fascinating look into Russia's military history. The museum is located in the Peter and Paul Fortress, so you can also explore this historic site.

Dinner

Have dinner in a local restaurant that offers a modern twist on traditional Russian cuisine. Pair your meal with a selection from their extensive wine list.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing boat tour along the Neva River. Enjoy the beautiful views of the city's landmarks lit up against the night sky.

Morning

Start your day in the Vasileostrovsky district, known for its beautiful parks and gardens. Take a leisurely walk through the Tauride Garden, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful scenery.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local café, trying some of the local seafood dishes. Saint Petersburg is known for its excellent seafood, so don't miss the chance to try some.

Afternoon

Visit the Erarta Museum of Contemporary Art. This museum is off the beaten path and offers a unique look at Russia's contemporary art scene.

Dinner

Enjoy a relaxing dinner in a local restaurant. Try some of the local dishes, paired with a glass of Russian wine.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Mariinsky Theatre. This historic theatre offers a range of performances, from ballet to opera, and is a must-visit for any culture lover.

Attractions in Itinerary (5)

Museum of Artillery, Engineers and Signal Corps

1
Museum of Artillery, Engineers and Signal Corps

One of the oldest museums in Russia, it showcases the history of the Russian military engineering and signal corps. The museum's collection includes old Russian and foreign military uniforms, firearms, cold steel, military engineering equipment, and signal devices.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Peter and Paul Fortress

2
Peter and Paul Fortress

The original citadel of Saint Petersburg, built by Peter the Great.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Tauride Garden

3
Tauride Garden

A large and historic public park that was one of the first to open in Saint Petersburg. It features a beautiful pond, a palace, and several monuments. It's a great place for a leisurely walk or picnic.

Parks
Gardens
Erarta Museum of Contemporary Art

4
Erarta Museum of Contemporary Art

The largest private museum of contemporary art in Russia, it features over 2,800 works from Russian artists. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, performances, and interactive installations.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Mariinsky Theatre

5
Mariinsky Theatre

A historic theatre of opera and ballet in Saint Petersburg, Russia. Opened in 1860, it became the preeminent music theatre of late 19th-century Russia.

Entertainment
Cultural Experiences
Architecture

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Borscht

Borscht

A traditional Russian soup made from beetroot, which gives it a distinctive red color. It's a staple in Saint Petersburg and is usually served with sour cream.

Pirozhki

Pirozhki

Small, individual-sized baked or fried buns stuffed with a variety of fillings. A popular snack in Saint Petersburg, often filled with meat, vegetables, or fruit.

Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff

A classic Russian dish of sautéed pieces of beef served in a sauce with smetana (sour cream). It originated in Saint Petersburg and is a must-try for meat lovers.

Shchi

Shchi

A traditional Russian soup primarily made from cabbage. It's a common dish in Saint Petersburg, often eaten with rye bread.

Blini

Blini

Thin pancakes similar to crepes, often served with fillings or toppings such as jam, fruit, sour cream, or caviar. A popular dessert or breakfast dish in Saint Petersburg.

Pelmeni

Pelmeni

Traditional Russian dumplings filled with meat or vegetables. They are a common comfort food in Saint Petersburg.

Olivier Salad

A traditional Russian salad made with diced boiled vegetables, eggs, and meat. It's a staple dish in Saint Petersburg, especially during celebrations.

Solyanka

Solyanka

A thick, spicy and sour soup that is a part of traditional Saint Petersburg cuisine. It's made with a variety of meats and pickles.

Russian Black Bread

A dark, dense, and slightly sweet bread made from rye and wheat. It's a staple in Saint Petersburg and is often served with meals.

Kvass

Kvass

A traditional Russian fermented beverage made from rye bread. It's a popular non-alcoholic drink in Saint Petersburg, especially during the summer.

Medovukha

Medovukha

A traditional Russian honey-based alcoholic beverage. It's similar to mead and is a popular drink in Saint Petersburg.

Vodka

Vodka

A distilled spirit that is a staple of Russian culture. It's often served straight and chilled in Saint Petersburg.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Saint Petersburg, Russia is during the summer months, from mid-June to September. During this period, the city experiences its famous "White Nights," when it never gets completely dark due to its northern latitude. The weather is also more pleasant during these months, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). This is also the time when the city hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals. However, it's also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. If you prefer a quieter time, late spring (May to early June) and early autumn (September) are also good times to visit, with milder weather and fewer tourists.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 2

Tue

New Year Holiday

January 3

Wed

New Year Holiday

January 4

Thu

New Year Holiday

January 5

Fri

New Year Holiday

January 6

Sat

New Year Holiday

January 7

Sun

Orthodox Christmas Day

January 8

Mon

New Year Holiday

February 23

Fri

Defender of the Fatherland Day

March 8

Fri

International Women's Day

April 28

Sun

Spring and Labor Day Holiday

April 29

Mon

Spring and Labor Day Holiday

April 30

Tue

Spring and Labor Day Holiday

May 1

Wed

Spring and Labor Day

May 9

Thu

Victory Day

May 10

Fri

Victory Day Holiday

June 12

Wed

Russia Day

November 3

Sun

Unity Day Holiday

November 4

Mon

Unity Day

December 30

Mon

New Year Holiday

December 31

Tue

New Year Holiday

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Saint Petersburg is a very walkable city, especially in the city center where many of the main attractions are located. It's a great way to take in the beautiful architecture and vibrant street life.

Public buses are a common way to get around Saint Petersburg. They cover a wide area of the city and run frequently. However, they can get crowded during peak hours.

Trams are another popular form of public transportation in Saint Petersburg. They are slower than buses but offer a more scenic ride.

The Saint Petersburg Metro is one of the deepest subway systems in the world. It's also one of the most efficient and affordable ways to get around the city. The metro stations themselves are worth a visit, many are beautifully decorated with mosaics, sculptures, and chandeliers.

Taxis are readily available in Saint Petersburg. It's recommended to use official taxi services or to book through a reputable company to ensure safety and fair prices.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Yandex.Taxi are widely used in Saint Petersburg. They offer a convenient and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis.

Saint Petersburg has a growing network of bike lanes and bike rental services. Cycling can be a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city, especially during the warmer months.

Given Saint Petersburg's location on the Neva River and its many canals, taking a boat tour or using the public waterbus can be a unique and enjoyable way to see the city.

Marshrutkas are privately operated minibuses that follow fixed routes. They are faster than public buses and trams but can be more difficult to navigate for non-Russian speakers.

Renting a car can be a convenient option for those who prefer to drive themselves. However, traffic can be heavy and parking can be difficult in the city center.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency₽ RUB

Time zoneUTC+3

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone112

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage220 V

Things to know about Saint Petersburg, Russia as a first time visitor

1

Saint Petersburg is known as the 'cultural capital' of Russia, so expect a city rich in history, art, and culture.

2

The local currency is the Russian Ruble (RUB). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to have some cash on hand.

3

Russian is the official language. While some people speak English, especially in tourist areas, it's not as common as in other European cities.

4

Saint Petersburg uses Moscow Standard Time, which is 3 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+3).

5

The city has a humid continental climate. Summers (June to August) are warm, with temperatures ranging from 55°F to 75°F (13°C to 24°C). Winters (December to February) are cold and snowy, with temperatures ranging from 15°F to 30°F (-9°C to -1°C).

6

Tipping is customary in Russia. In restaurants, it's common to leave a tip of 10-15% of the total bill.

7

Public transportation is efficient and includes the metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses. Taxis are also widely available.

8

Saint Petersburg is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

9

It's important to dress respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites. Women should cover their heads and men should remove their hats in churches.

10

The city is known for its 'White Nights' in summer, when it never gets completely dark. This is due to its northern latitude.

11

Tap water in Saint Petersburg is not safe to drink due to the risk of giardia and other parasites. It's recommended to drink bottled water.

12

The city has a vibrant nightlife, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and theaters. However, it's advisable to avoid excessive drinking.

13

It's customary to greet people with a firm handshake. When meeting for the first time, wait for the other person to extend their hand first.

14

It's considered rude to point with your finger. Instead, use your whole hand to gesture.

15

Smoking is banned in all public places, including restaurants, bars, and parks.

16

If you're invited to a Russian home, it's customary to bring a gift, such as flowers or chocolates.

17

Avoid discussing politics or making negative comments about Russia or its leaders.

18

Always carry your passport, visa, and registration with you, as police may stop you to check your documents.

19

The city has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.

20

Most museums and attractions charge an entrance fee. Some offer discounts for students, children, and seniors.

Basic Russian to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Привет

Privet

Greeting someone

Goodbye

До свидания

Do svidaniya

Leaving or saying goodbye

Please

Пожалуйста

Pozhaluysta

Making a request

Thank you

Спасибо

Spasibo

Showing gratitude

Yes

Да

Da

Agreeing or confirming

No

Нет

Nyet

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Извините

Izvinite

Getting attention or apologizing

I don't understand

Я не понимаю

Ya ne ponimayu

Confusion or misunderstanding

Do you speak English?

Вы говорите по-английски?

Vy govorite po-angliyski?

Finding someone who speaks English

Where is the bathroom?

Где туалет?

Gde tualet?

Looking for the bathroom

How much does this cost?

Сколько это стоит?

Skol'ko eto stoit?

Asking for the price

I need a doctor

Мне нужен врач

Mne nuzhen vrach

In case of medical emergency

Help

Помощь

Pomoshch'

In need of assistance

I'm lost

Я потерялся

Ya poteryalsya

When you can't find your way

Can I use my credit card?

Могу ли я использовать кредитную карту?

Mogu li ya ispol'zovat' kreditnuyu kartu?

When wanting to pay with credit card

Where is...?

Где...?

Gde...?

Asking for directions

Water

Вода

Voda

When you want to order water

Food

Еда

Yeda

When you want to order food

Beer

Пиво

Pivo

When you want to order beer

Cheers

За здоровье

Za zdorov'ye

When toasting

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • T-shirts

  • Pants/Jeans

  • Sweater or Jacket

  • Sleepwear

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Raincoat or Umbrella

  • Scarf, gloves and hat (if winter)

  • Swimsuit (if summer)

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and Toothpaste

  • Shampoo and Conditioner

  • Body Wash or Soap

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and Shaving Cream

  • Makeup and Makeup Remover

  • Sunscreen (if summer)

  • Lip Balm

  • Hand Sanitizer

  • Prescription Medications

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Visa

  • Driver's License

  • Health Insurance Card

  • Travel Insurance Documents

  • Hotel and Transportation Reservations

  • Emergency Contacts and Address List

  • Local Currency

  • Credit and Debit Cards

  • Travel Guide and Map

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger and Adapter

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Memory Card

  • Portable Power Bank

  • Laptop or Tablet (optional)

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks

  • Water Bottle

  • Travel Pillow and Blanket

  • Books or Magazines

  • Travel Locks

  • First Aid Kit

  • Travel Laundry Detergent Packs

  • Travel Sewing Kit

Weather Conditions

When planning a trip to Saint Petersburg, Russia, it's important to consider the city's unique weather patterns. Known as the "Venice of the North", Saint Petersburg experiences a humid continental climate, with considerable temperature differences throughout the year. Winter in Saint Petersburg, which typically lasts from December to March, can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping to -6°C (21°F) or lower. Snowfall is common and can add a magical touch to the city's historic architecture. However, it's essential to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, hats, gloves, and scarves. Waterproof boots are also recommended as the city's streets can become slushy. Spring, from April to June, sees a gradual rise in temperatures, with averages ranging from 8°C (46°F) in April to 18°C (64°F) in June. This is a beautiful time to visit as the city comes alive with blooming flowers. Lighter layers and a waterproof jacket are advisable as rain showers are common. Summer, from July to August, is the warmest season with temperatures often reaching 24°C (75°F). However, Saint Petersburg is known for its "White Nights" phenomenon around the summer solstice, where it never gets completely dark. This can be a unique experience, but it might disrupt your sleep schedule, so consider bringing an eye mask. Autumn, from September to November, sees temperatures drop from 15°C (59°F) in September to around 0°C (32°F) in November. The city's parks and gardens offer a beautiful display of fall colors, but rain is frequent, so don't forget your umbrella and warm layers. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip to Saint Petersburg to ensure you pack appropriately. Remember, the weather can change quickly, so it's best to be prepared for all conditions.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

-3° / -8°

January is the coldest month in Saint Petersburg, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Dress warmly and be prepared for snow.

February

-2° / -8°

February is still very cold, with temperatures often below freezing. Snow is common, so pack warm clothing and snow boots.

March

4° / -4°

March sees the beginning of spring, but temperatures can still be quite cold. Snow may still be present, so warm clothing is recommended.

April

11° / 1°

April sees a significant increase in temperature, but it can still be chilly. Lighter layers and a warm jacket are recommended.

May

17° / 7°

May is the start of the warm season, with temperatures often comfortable. Light layers are recommended, but keep a jacket handy for cooler evenings.

June

21° / 11°

June is one of the warmest months, with long daylight hours. Light clothing is recommended, but pack a light jacket for cooler nights.

July

24° / 14°

July is the warmest month in Saint Petersburg, with long daylight hours. Light clothing is recommended, but pack a light jacket for cooler nights.

August

23° / 13°

August is still quite warm, but temperatures start to drop towards the end of the month. Light clothing is recommended, but pack a light jacket for cooler nights.

September

18° / 8°

September sees the start of autumn, with temperatures starting to drop. Light layers and a warm jacket are recommended.

October

13° / 3°

October can be quite chilly, with temperatures often dropping below freezing at night. Warm clothing and a jacket are recommended.

November

5° / -1°

November sees the start of winter, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Warm clothing and a jacket are recommended.

December

1° / -6°

December is a cold month, with temperatures often below freezing. Dress warmly and be prepared for snow.

Did you know?

Did you know that Saint Petersburg was founded by Tsar Peter the Great in 1703?

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