4-Day Saint Petersburg, Russia: A Comprehensive Travel Itinerary
Saint Petersburg, Russia
4 days
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.
4-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Discovering Russian Art and Summer Garden
Morning
Begin your day with a visit to the 'Russian Museum', home to a vast collection of Russian fine art.
Lunch
Have lunch in a cozy cafe near the museum. Try the famous Russian salad, Olivier.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon exploring the Summer Garden, a beautiful park filled with marble statues and fountains.
Dinner
Enjoy a traditional Russian dinner in a local restaurant. Don't miss the chance to try stroganoff, a classic Russian dish.
Evening
Experience a ballet or opera performance at the Mariinsky Theatre, one of the most famous theatres in the world.
Day 3
Visiting Peterhof Palace and Catherine Palace
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Peterhof Palace and Gardens, often referred to as the 'Russian Versailles'.
Lunch
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the beautiful gardens of Peterhof.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Catherine Palace, a stunning example of baroque architecture.
Dinner
Dine in a restaurant offering traditional Russian cuisine. Try dishes like shashlik and pirozhki.
Evening
End your day with a boat tour on the Neva River, offering stunning views of the city's landmarks lit up at night.
Day 4
Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood and Kazan Cathedral
Morning
Begin your day with a visit to the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, one of the main sights of Saint Petersburg.
Lunch
Have lunch in a local restaurant. Try the famous Russian pancakes, blini.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon exploring the Kazan Cathedral, a masterpiece of Russian architecture.
Dinner
Enjoy your last dinner in Saint Petersburg in a restaurant offering a fusion of Russian and international cuisine.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to the Saint Isaac's Cathedral and its colonnade, offering a panoramic view of the city.
Attractions in Itinerary (9)
1Hermitage Museum
One of the largest and oldest museums in the world, housing a vast collection of art and culture from across the globe.
2Peter and Paul Fortress
The original citadel of Saint Petersburg, built by Peter the Great.
3Summer Garden
The oldest park in the city, known for its marble statues and cast iron fence.
4Mariinsky 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.
5Peterhof Palace and Gardens
A series of palaces and gardens located in Petergof, Saint Petersburg, Russia, commissioned by Peter the Great as a direct response to the Palace of Versailles by Louis XIV of France.
6Catherine Palace
A Rococo palace located in the town of Tsarskoye Selo (Pushkin), 30 km south of St. Petersburg, Russia. It was the summer residence of the Russian tsars.
7Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood
A stunning Russian Orthodox church built on the site where Emperor Alexander II was fatally wounded.
8Kazan Cathedral
A cathedral that is a monument to Russia's victory over Napoleon.
9Saint Isaac's Cathedral
Saint Isaac's Cathedral is the largest Russian Orthodox cathedral in the city. It is dedicated to Saint Isaac of Dalmatia, a patron saint of Peter the Great. The cathedral's main dome rises 101.5 metres and is plated with pure gold. The cathedral's architecture features a mixture of styles, including late Neoclassicism and Byzantine. The interior is adorned with detailed mosaics, paintings and columns made of malachite and lapis lazuli.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
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
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
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
A traditional Russian soup primarily made from cabbage. It's a common dish in Saint Petersburg, often eaten with rye bread.
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
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
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
A traditional Russian fermented beverage made from rye bread. It's a popular non-alcoholic drink in Saint Petersburg, especially during the summer.
Medovukha
A traditional Russian honey-based alcoholic beverage. It's similar to mead and is a popular drink in Saint Petersburg.
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.
| Date | Day | Holiday 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 |
How to get around
Walk
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 Bus
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.
Tram
Trams are another popular form of public transportation in Saint Petersburg. They are slower than buses but offer a more scenic ride.
Metro
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.
Taxi
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
Ridesharing services like Uber and Yandex.Taxi are widely used in Saint Petersburg. They offer a convenient and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis.
Bicycle
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.
Boat
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.
Marshrutka
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.
Car Rental
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.
Important information
Currency₽ RUB
Time zoneUTC+3
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone112
Drinking waterOpt for bottled water
Power sockets
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 (4 pairs)
Socks (4 pairs)
T-shirts (4)
Long-sleeve shirts (2)
Jeans or comfortable trousers (2 pairs)
Comfortable walking shoes
Sleepwear
Sweater or hoodie
Light jacket
Rain jacket or umbrella
Scarf, gloves, and hat (if winter)
Swimsuit (if summer or if your hotel has a pool)
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Face wash and moisturizer
Sunscreen (if summer)
Lip balm
Personal hygiene items
Prescription medications
First-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers)
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Visa (if required)
Driver's license (if you plan to rent a car)
Hotel reservation confirmations
Airline tickets
Travel insurance documents
Emergency contacts and addresses
Credit cards and cash
Guidebook or map
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Adapter plug (Russia uses type C and F plugs)
Camera
Charger for camera
Headphones
Portable power bank
Laptop or tablet (if necessary)
Charger for laptop or tablet
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow and blanket
Earplugs and eye mask
Snacks
Water bottle
Books or e-reader for the flight
Travel-sized laundry detergent
Plastic bags for dirty clothes
Pen and notebook
Travel lock for luggage
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.
| Month | Hi / 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?
Places near by Saint Petersburg, Russia
Vyborg
A historic city with a medieval castle, parks, and museums
Kronstadt
A city known for its naval history and the Naval Cathedral
Peterhof
Famous for its palace complex with beautiful fountains and gardens
Pushkin
Home to the Catherine Palace, a Rococo palace with a large park
Pavlovsk
Known for the Pavlovsk Palace, a large English-style park
Novgorod
One of the most important historic cities in Russia
Gatchina
Famous for the Gatchina Palace and its parks
Kizhi Island
An open-air museum with historic wooden buildings
Valaam Island
Known for the Valaam Monastery, one of the oldest in Russia
Pskov
A historic city with medieval architecture
