Best Backpacking Destinations in Saint Petersburg, Russia

1. Peterhof Grand Palace

Baroque palace with stunning fountains and gardens, a must-see attraction in Saint Petersburg.

Historical Significance: Originally built by Peter the Great as a summer residence.
Fountain Spectacle: Features over 170 fountains that operate based on a hydraulic system.
Scenic Location: Set on the shore of the Gulf of Finland, offering beautiful sea views.

Ornate Orthodox church with intricate mosaics and domes, commemorating Alexander II.

Iconic Architecture: Designed by Russian architect Alfred Alexandrovich Parland.
Impressive Mosaics: Over 7,500 square meters of mosaics decorate the interior.
Historical Importance: Constructed on the spot where Alexander II was mortally wounded.

Impressive art and cultural museum housed in the Winter Palace.

World-Class Art Collection: Includes works by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Rembrandt, and Picasso.
Architectural Masterpiece: Another marvel by Bartolomeo Rastrelli, the architect who also designed Peterhof.
Rich History: Initially established by Catherine the Great in 1764.

Iconic White-Ship-class cruiser used as a museum ship on the Neva River.

Historical Importance: Famed for its role in the Russian Revolution.
Museum Experience: Visitors can explore the ship's historical cabins and engine rooms.
Unforgettable River Views: Offers unique perspectives of Saint Petersburg from the Neva River.

Oldest building in Saint Petersburg, housing a cathedral and museum complex.

Historical Significance: Founded by Peter the Great in 1703 as a stronghold for the city.
Impressive Cathedral: Features stunning architecture and the tombs of many Russian emperors.
Panoramic Views: Offers scenic vistas of Saint Petersburg from its high vantage points.

Renowned opera and ballet house featuring world-class performances.

Rich Artistic Heritage: Home to the Mariinsky Ballet and Mariinsky Opera companies.
Stunning Architecture: Designed by Albert Cavos in a mix of Russian Revival and Baroque styles.
World-Class Performances: Featuring works by great composers such as Tchaikovsky, Mussorgsky, and Rimsky-Korsakov.

Impressive domed cathedral with stunning gold-covered interiors.

Architectural Masterpiece: Designed by August Montferrand in the Russian Empire's Imperial Baroque style.
Gold-Plated Interiors: Inside, over 100 kilograms of gold leaf are used to decorate the columns.
Scenic City Views: The colonnade atop the cathedral offers panoramic views of Saint Petersburg.

Main street of Saint Petersburg, lined with historic buildings and shops.

Historical Significance: Began as the main road leading to Peter the Great's newly built city.
Cultural Diversity: Home to many important cultural institutions such as the Hermitage and Kazan Cathedral.
Shopping Opportunities: Features a variety of shops, from high-end boutiques to local souvenir stores.

Baroque palace built for Catherine I, featuring the famous Amber Room.

Historical Significance: Constructed in the early 18th century.
Amber Room Marvel: Famous for its stunning collection of amber panels, replicas were created during WWII due to loss.
Scenic Parklands: Surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens and parks.

Historic building and former home of the Russian Orthodox Church's synod.

Architectural Masterpiece: Designed by Bartolomeo Rastrelli in the mid-18th century.
Rich History: Used as a religious and political center for decades.
Scenic Location: Set within beautiful gardens on the banks of the Moika River.

Iconic peninsula featuring a variety of landmarks and attractions.

Historical Significance: Former site of the Baltic Fleet's headquarters.
Scenic Viewpoints: Offers panoramic views of the Neva River and the city skyline.
Attractions Concentration: Home to several museums, parks, and monuments.

Neoclassical cathedral located on The Nevsky Prospect.

Architectural Masterpiece: Designed by August Montferrand in the early 19th century.
Historical Significance: Dedicated to the protection of the city and its citizens.
Iconic Location: Located on The Nevsky Prospect, one of Saint Petersburg's main streets.

One of Russia's most prestigious universities, with beautiful Baroque architecture.

Historical Significance: Founded in 1798 by Catherine the Great.
Architectural Masterpiece: Designed by Vasily Stasov and Matvey Kazakov, notable Russian architects.
Academic Opportunities: Offers a wide range of courses in various fields.

Tallest bell tower in Saint Petersburg, offering stunning city views.

Architectural Masterpiece: Designed by Alfred Alexandrovich Parland.
Historical Significance: Built in memory of Alexander II, who was assassinated near the church.
Scenic City Views: Offers panoramic views of Saint Petersburg from its high vantage point.

Historic bell tower offering panoramic views of Saint Petersburg.

Architectural Masterpiece: Designed by Domenico Trezzini.
Historical Significance: Constructed as part of the original fortress in 1732.
Scenic City Views: Offers panoramic views of Saint Petersburg from its high vantage point.