"Piter," as the locals call their city, could hardly be more contrasting: opulent palaces next to concrete buildings, white summer nights over a city that sinks into darkness in winter, and a history that fluctuates between grandeur and tragedy. Founded by Tsar Peter the Great as a "window to Europe," Saint Petersburg is now the second-largest city in Russia and one of the country's most significant cultural centers. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, art, or simply the unique atmosphere of this city - there's so much to discover here.

• Imperial Architecture: Magnificent tsar palaces, impressive cathedrals, and extensive parks
• Museums and Culture: World-class museums like the Hermitage or the Russian Museum
• Canals and Bridges: The "Venice of the North" offers picturesque waterways and countless bridges
• White Nights: A natural phenomenon where the sun hardly sets during summer
• Vibrant Neighborhoods: From historic alleys to modern trendy districts

• Founded: 1703 by Tsar Peter the Great
• Population: approx. 5.4 million (as of 2024)
• Area: approx. 1,439 km²
• River: The Neva flows through the city
• Number of Bridges: Over 340, including numerous drawbridges
• Former Names: Petrograd (1914–1924), Leningrad (1924–1991)
• UNESCO World Heritage: The historic center and 36 suburbs
• Nickname: "Venice of the North" because of its many canals
• Tallest Building: Lakhta Center (462 m) – the tallest building in Europe
• Coldest Month: February with an average of -6 °C
• White Nights: From mid-June to early July, when it barely gets dark at night
• Metro Depth: One of the deepest subway systems in the world, with the Admiralteyskaya station at a depth of 86 meters

5 Curious Facts About Saint Petersburg

1. Cats as Museum Guardians
   The Hermitage not only houses artworks but also an army of around 50 cats that have kept mice away from the museum for centuries.

2. Subway for the Brave
   Some escalators in the metro are so long that it takes up to three minutes to go from top to bottom.

3. A City That Never Sleeps
   During the White Nights, countless events take place, and the city remains awake 24 hours a day.

4. The Bloodiest Siege
   During World War II, Leningrad (now Saint Petersburg) was besieged by the German Army for almost 900 days. More than a million people died.

5. Streets that Suddenly Change Direction
   Some streets change their name multiple times along their length – this can be quite confusing for outsiders.

In 1703, Tsar Peter I. ordered the construction of a fortress on marshy land by the Neva River - the beginning of St. Petersburg. He wanted to create a modern, Western-influenced Russia and made the city the new capital of the Tsardom. The construction took place under harsh conditions, and thousands of workers died from disease and exhaustion.

From the Splendor of the Tsarist Era to the Revolution

St. Petersburg quickly developed into a magnificent metropolis. The Winter Palace, the Admiralty, and St. Isaac's Cathedral were constructed. However, the luxurious lifestyle of the upper class stood in stark contrast to the poverty of the working class. In 1917, the Russian Revolution was sparked here - the Romanov dynasty came to an end, and the Bolsheviks seized power.

Leningrad: War, Siege, and Reconstruction

In 1924, the city was renamed "Leningrad." During World War II, it experienced one of the worst sieges in history: for nearly 900 days, the Wehrmacht cut off the city, and hundreds of thousands perished from starvation or freezing. After the war, the city was rebuilt and retained its status as a cultural center of the Soviet Union.

From Leningrad Back to St. Petersburg

In 1991, following the collapse of the Soviet Union, a referendum decided that the city would return to its original name. Today, St. Petersburg is a modern metropolis with a unique blend of history and progress.

Saint Petersburg is divided into 18 districts (Районы, Rajony), which are further divided into neighborhoods (Микрорайоны, Mikrorajony). Here is a complete overview:

Saint Petersburg is a city of palaces, bridges, and cathedrals. Everywhere you find impressive buildings that tell the story of the glorious era of the Tsars, as well as the turbulent history of the city. But which sights should definitely be on your list?

The most famous landmarks of Saint Petersburg

• The Hermitage (Государственный Эрмитаж) – one of the largest and most significant art museums in the world
• Saint Isaac's Cathedral (Исаакиевский собор) – one of the largest dome churches in Europe with a spectacular view
• The Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood (Храм Спаса на Крови) – known for its colorful onion domes and magnificent mosaics
• The Peter and Paul Fortress (Петропавловская крепость) – the origin of the city and a former prison complex
• Nevsky Prospect (Невский проспект) – the main boulevard with opulent buildings and shops
• The Catherine Palace (Екатерининский дворец) – home to the legendary Amber Room in Pushkin
• The Kazan Cathedral (Казанский собор) – one of the most beautiful churches with impressive colonnades
• The Mariinsky Theatre (Мариинский театр) – world-famous for its ballet and opera performances
• The Drawbridges (Разводные мосты) – a spectacular sight during the summer nights

A route for your perfect sightseeing day

Since Saint Petersburg is a vast city, it is worth planning a thoughtful route. Here is a suggestion for a day full of highlights:

Morning:

• Start at the Peter and Paul Fortress and enjoy the view of the Neva
• Stroll to the Hermitage, visit the most important artworks and wander through the Winter Palace
• Walk across Palace Square to Nevsky Prospect

Afternoon:

• Visit the magnificent Kazan Cathedral
• Take a lunch break in one of the traditional restaurants on Nevsky Prospect

Afternoon:

• Amazed by the breathtaking mosaics of the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood
• Take the metro to Pushkin and explore the Catherine Palace

Evening:

• Enjoy the view from Saint Isaac's Cathedral at sunset
• Attend a performance at the Mariinsky Theatre
• Experience the opening of the Drawbridges at midnight

📝 Tip: If you are in the city during the White Nights in summer, it is worth taking a boat tour on the Neva. This way, you can admire the illuminated sights and the opening bridges from the water!

The Russian cuisine is hearty, filling, and full of flavor. In St. Petersburg, you'll find both traditional Russian dishes and specialties from other regions of the country.

Borscht (Борщ) – The famous beet soup

This hearty soup made from beets, cabbage, potatoes, and meat is one of the most well-known dishes in Russia. It is often served with a dollop of sour cream.

Pelmeni (Пельмени) – Russia's answer to ravioli

Stuffed dumplings with ground meat or mushrooms, typically enjoyed with butter and sour cream. Especially delicious with a pinch of dill!

Blini (Блины) – Russian pancakes

These thin, soft pancakes are served with sweet or savory fillings – from caviar to jam.

Pirozhki (Пирожки) – Baked or fried dumplings

Filled with meat, potatoes, cabbage, or sweet ingredients, they are a popular snack.

Kvas (Квас) – The Russian summer drink

This lightly fermented bread drink is refreshing and has a slightly sour taste.

Medovukha (Медовуха) – Russian honey wine

A sweet alcoholic specialty that has existed for centuries.

Saint Petersburg is located in the mouth delta of the Neva (Нева), which runs through the city. Additionally, there are numerous canals that have earned the city the nickname "Venice of the North."

St. Petersburg is not only a cultural center but also one of the economically most important cities in Russia.

Population Statistics - Who Lives in St. Petersburg?

• Population: approx. 5.4 million (as of 2024)
• Population Density: approx. 3,750 inhabitants/km²
• Largest Ethnic Groups: Russians (~90%), Ukrainians, Tatars, Belarusians
• Average Age: approx. 40 years
• Official Language: Russian

Industries of the City

• Shipbuilding - St. Petersburg is an important location for naval and cargo shipbuilding
• IT & Technology - Many startups and large IT companies are based here
• Automotive Industry - Factories of Nissan, Hyundai, and Toyota
• Finance - Many banks and insurance companies have their Russian headquarters here
• Tourism - One of the most visited cities in Russia

Economic Significance

As the second-largest city in Russia, St. Petersburg is one of the wealthiest cities in the country. The seaport is the most important port in Russia on the Baltic Sea and plays a significant role in international trade. Furthermore, the city is considered a center for education and research - the St. Petersburg University is among the most prestigious universities in Russia.

St. Petersburg is not only known for its impressive architecture but also for its diverse events. From cultural festivals to spectacular celebrations, the city offers exciting events throughout the year.

The Main Events in St. Petersburg

During your visit, there are various directions you can take, depending on whether you are traveling alone or with your loved ones. To help you plan your exploration better, we have compiled a few tips for you.

Five Excursions in St. Petersburg

1. Pushkin & the Catherine Palace
   The famous Amber Room is located here. The parklands surrounding the palace are also worth seeing.

2. Peterhof
   The summer residence of the tsars is especially known for its impressive fountains.

3. Kronstadt
   The historic port city on Kotlin Island offers an imposing naval cathedral and fascinating fortress structures.

4. Yelagin Island
   Perfect for a relaxed stroll or a boat tour. There is also an open-air museum here.

5. The Russian Arctic Circle
   If you have time, you can take a tour to northern Russia from here – an unforgettable experience!

Three Recommendations in St. Petersburg for Couples

1. Boat Ride on the Canals
   Especially in the evening, when the city is illuminated, a romantic boat ride provides a wonderful atmosphere.

2. Visit the St. Isaac's Cathedral at Sunset
   From the dome, you have one of the most beautiful views of the city.

3. Stroll through the Courtyards of Petersburg
   Off the beaten tourist paths, there are hidden courtyards full of charm.

Three Recommendations in St. Petersburg for Singles

1. Bar-Hopping on Rubinstein Street
   Here you will find one of the best bar scenes in the city with many trendy bars.

2. Attend an SKA St. Petersburg Ice Hockey Game
   The atmosphere in the Gazprom Arena is electrifying!

3. Modern Art at New Holland Island
   A former shipyard has been transformed into a creative park with galleries and cafés.

Three Recommendations in St. Petersburg for Families

1. The Leningrad Zoo
   The oldest zoo in Russia with over 600 species of animals is ideal for children.

2. The Grand Maket Russia
   A huge model landscape featuring miniature representations of all of Russia.

3. Interactive Museum "LabirintUm"
   A science museum designed specifically for children.

Three Hotel Recommendations in St. Petersburg

1. Four Seasons Lion Palace (Luxury)
   Located right in the historical center, with a fantastic spa area.

2. Nevsky Forum Hotel (Mid-range)
   Perfect location on Nevsky Prospekt and good value for money.

3. Baby Lemonade Hostel (Budget)
   A stylish and affordable accommodation for backpackers.

Rules & No-Gos in Saint Petersburg

• No alcohol on the street – Drinking in public is prohibited and may result in a fine.
• Metro etiquette – There are clear unwritten rules in the metro: Stand on the right on the escalator, the left is for overtaking.
• Photography in museums – In some museums, photography is prohibited or only allowed for a fee.

Public Transport in Saint Petersburg

The city has a well-developed transport network:

• Metro – The fastest and cheapest way to get around the city.
• Buses & trams – Good for shorter distances, but often crowded.
• Taxis & Uber/Yandex.Taxi – Cheaper than in Western Europe, but you should check prices beforehand.

The Weather in Saint Petersburg

How to Get to Saint Petersburg

• By plane: The international airport Pulkovo (LED) is located about 23 km from the city center.
• By train: There are direct train connections from Moscow, Helsinki, and other cities.
• By ferry: You can arrive by ferry from Helsinki or Tallinn.