St Petersburg: Romantic and Grand
The heart and soul of Russia is a truly incredible thing to explore. A country this physically huge, by default, has a lot to offer. But when you combine its size with Russia's rich history and glory, you've got a holiday destination unique to its core. And the very best of it is found in St Petersburg.
The Venice of the North
Once arriving in St Petersburg, it's easy to see why it's known as the Venice of the North. Scattered along the graceful canals of the city are an abundance of imperial architecture, towering spires and comestible wonders.
We pride ourselves on offering the best-guided tours of the city, with hidden details and unique locations off the beaten track. Most of our holidays to St Petersburg include a tour led by an English-speaking guide. Explore some of the vibrant areas of the inner city, tours some of the best-preserved monuments and museums.
Some of our most popular tours featuring St Petersburg include:
➤ One Week, Two Capitals: Moscow & St Petersburg
➤ Grand Russia UNESCO Tour
➤ Imperial Winter
➤ Luxury River Cruise: Moscow to St Petersburg
➤ Golden Ring, Moscow & St Petersburg
➤ Way of the Tsars
The Highlights of St Petersburg
There is so much to see in St Petersburg; it can be challenging to know which attractions are must-sees, and which ones to skip.
The experts at Discovery Russia have planned holidays that hit all the major landmarks, with some hidden gems along the way.
The State Hermitage Museum is well-deserving of the recognition as St Petersburg's most memorable sight. The Winter Palace, the main building of the Hermitage, was home to Russian Tsars and the royal family, and the unapologetically baroque palace is a feast of regal splendor and historical significance.
St Isaac's Cathedral is one of the world's largest cathedrals, and its dome is unmissable from any vantage point in St Petersburg. If you're looking for ornate, this is it. While the cathedral does hold services a few times throughout the year, these days it mainly operates as a museum for visitors to enjoy.
The Church of the Savior on the Spilled Blood is a dramatic feast for the eyes. It's shrouded in mystery and legend, many of which reference the assassination attempt on Tsar Alexander II in the late 1800s. It's a dazzling highlight of St Petersburg, and it's easy to see why it took 24 years to complete construction.
What's Your Perfect St Petersburg Holiday?
Discovery Russia runs over 20 holiday packages featuring St Petersburg, so you're sure to find your perfect Russian experience with us. If you have a particular plan in mind, ask us about customizing any aspect of your journey. Alternatively, plan a private trip with us, and enjoy the luxury of travelling at your own pace, with all planning details taken care of by our expert agents.