Best Parks & Green Spaces in Saint Petersburg, Russia
1. Peterhof Lower Park
Baroque-style park with over 150 fountains and beautiful cascades, located on the Gulf of Finland.
- Historical Significance: Originally designed by Peter the Great
- Fountain Exhibition: Unique collection of fountains operating by gravity
- Accessibility: Easy reach from Saint Petersburg city center by hydrofoil or bus
2. Tsarskoye Selo (Pushkin) Park
Impressive palace and garden complex associated with the Russian royal family, featuring Catherine Palace and Alexander Palace.
- Royal Heritage: Historic residence of Russian Empresses
- Architectural Beauty: Exquisite Baroque and Rococo architecture
- Landscape Diversity: Combines English landscape style, French formal gardens, and Russian park design
3. Mikhailovskoye Estate
Stunning palace and park complex located near the Hermitage Museum, featuring the Alexander Theatre and beautiful gardens.
- Cultural Landmark: Designed by architect Carlo Rossi
- Theatre Experience: Home to the Mikhailovsky Theatre, one of Russia's most prestigious opera companies
- Historic Conservation: Restoration efforts preserve its original Baroque style
4. Summer Garden
An 18th-century English-style garden located along the Neva River embankment.
- English Garden Influence: Features a variety of trees, shrubs, and flowers
- Natural Beauty: Overlooks the picturesque Neva River
- Historical Significance: One of Saint Petersburg's oldest parks, established by Peter the Great
5. Spasskaya Island and Garden
Beautiful island with a historic garden, boasting stunning views of Saint Petersburg's skyline.
- Island Retreat: A tranquil oasis away from the city bustle
- Garden Design: Inspired by French and English gardens
- Historic Church: Features the unique, bright-blue Spassky Cathedral
6. Kazan Cathedral Square
Impressive square featuring the iconic Kazan Cathedral and a large park.
- Iconic Architecture: Modeled after St. Peter's Basilica in Rome
- Central Location: Located near the Hermitage Museum and Nevsky Prospekt
- Green Oasis: A peaceful break from the city's hustle and bustle
7. The Smolny Institute Garden
Charming garden surrounding the historic Smolny Institute, featuring a beautiful fountain.
- Historic Significance: Once served as the headquarters of the Women's Battalion of Death
- Tranquil Setting: A serene spot in the city center
- Unique Fountain: The fountain's design symbolizes Russia's victory over Napoleon
8. Mariinsky Park
Lovely park adjacent to the Mariinsky Theatre and the Winter Canal.
- Artistic Surroundings: Adjoins the famous Mariinsky Theatre
- Canal View: Overlooks the Winter Canal and the beautiful Spit of Vasilyevsky Island
- Central Location: Close proximity to Nevsky Prospekt and major attractions
9. Obvodny Canal Embankment
Long promenade along the Obvodny Canal, featuring parks, cafes, and scenic views.
- Canal Walk: A popular spot for strolls and bike rides
- Urban Vista: Offers panoramic views of the city skyline
- Recreational Activities: Includes various sports facilities and playgrounds
10. New Holland Island
An island transformed into a creative hub with parks, museums, and art installations.
- Artistic Innovation: Features contemporary exhibitions and events
- Historic Heritage: Once a fortress, now home to modern art spaces
- Island Atmosphere: A vibrant and ever-changing cultural destination
11. Vasilyevsky Island Parks
Several parks located on Vasilyevsky Island, offering a peaceful escape from the city.
- Green Space Abundance: Multiple parks to choose from
- Urban Oasis: A serene escape within the city boundaries
- Landscape Diversity: Parks featuring various landscapes, from formal gardens to natural woodlands
12. Sevkabel Port
Urban waterfront area with parks, promenades, and various attractions.
- Waterfront Atmosphere: Overlooks the Baltic Sea
- Urban Innovation: Houses a creative community and startup ecosystem
- Recreational Activities: Includes a skatepark, playgrounds, and bike rentals
13. Krestovsky Island Parks
Large island park complex featuring sports facilities, concert venues, and green spaces.
- Sports Venue: Home to Saint Petersburg Stadium
- Urban Green Space: A large, modern park in the city center
- Recreational Activities: Includes bike trails, playgrounds, and sports facilities
14. Kamenny Island Park
Small island park with beautiful views of the Peter and Paul Fortress and the Neva River.
- Historic Surroundings: Adjoins the majestic Peter and Paul Fortress
- Green Oasis: A peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle
- Scenic Viewpoint: Offers stunning panoramas of Saint Petersburg's skyline
15. Konyushennaya Square and Garden
Historic square with a charming garden featuring beautiful fountains and statues.
- Historical Significance: Dating back to the early 18th century
- Urban Oasis: A serene spot in the city center
- Artistic Display: Features intricate sculptures and ornamental elements