State Hermitage Museum
One of the world's greatest art museums housed in the Winter Palace
On this page
About Saint Petersburg
Saint Petersburg is a city of extraordinary beauty, with its grand canals, ornate baroque and neoclassical architecture, and world-class cultural institutions. The city experiences the famous White Nights phenomenon in summer, when the sun barely sets and the city comes alive with festivals and celebrations. Home to the State Hermitage Museum—one of the largest art museums in the world—and dozens of imperial palaces, Saint Petersburg offers an unrivalled concentration of art, history, and culture.
- Largest city
- Saint Petersburg
- Population
- 5.6 million
- Languages
- Russian
- Currency
- Russian Ruble
- Time zone
- UTC+3 (Moscow Time)
Explore Saint Petersburg by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Saint Petersburg
The 5 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Church on Spilled Blood
Magnificent mosaic-covered church built on the site of Alexander II's assassination
Peter and Paul Fortress
The original citadel of Saint Petersburg, burial site of Russian tsars
Mariinsky Theatre
World-famous opera and ballet house, home of the Mariinsky Ballet
Saint Isaac's Cathedral
Massive neoclassical cathedral with panoramic views from its colonnade
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Saint Petersburg Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Saint Petersburg, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Saint Petersburg
- Days 1-2Saint Petersburg city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Saint Petersburg
- Days 1-3Saint Petersburg comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Saint Petersburg, departure
Where to stay in Saint Petersburg
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $40
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range $100
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury $350
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Four Seasons Lion Palace
Check rates on Booking.comPetro Palace Hotel
Check rates on Booking.comFriends Hostel on Nevsky
Check rates on Booking.comWhere to eat in Saint Petersburg
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Palkin
Khochu Kharcho
Duo Gastrobar
Getting around Saint Petersburg
Transportation options in Saint Petersburg include local buses, taxis, and rental cars. Check local conditions before planning your travel.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in RUB, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $15 | $50 | $200 |
| Food (per day) | $12 | $28 | $80 |
| Transportation | $5 | $10 | $30 |
| Activities | $8 | $12 | $40 |
| Daily total | $40 | $100 | $350 |
Best time to visit Saint Petersburg
Essential travel tips
- Book Hermitage tickets online to skip the queue
- Experience the White Nights festival in June–July
- The metro is the fastest way to get around
- Many museums are free on the first Thursday of the month
Safety information
Keep children close in crowded metro stations and on Nevsky Prospekt
Metro escalators are very steep and fast — hold small children firmly
Bridges raise from 1:25AM — don't get stranded on the wrong side of the river with children
Carry children's copies of passport information
Sun can be unexpectedly strong in summer — apply sunscreen even on overcast days
Frequently asked questions
Is Saint Petersburg safe to visit in 2026?
Saint Petersburg is generally a safe city for tourists with low rates of violent crime against visitors. The main risks are petty theft (pickpocketing), tourist-targeted scams, and the broader context of visiting Russia given current geopolitical conditions. Emergency services: police at 102, medical at 103.
What is the best time to visit Saint Petersburg?
The best time to visit Saint Petersburg is May–September. Saint Petersburg has a humid continental climate with mild summers and long, cold winters. The city sits at latitude 59°N — farther north than Moscow — giving it extreme daylight variation: nearly 19
Do I need a visa to visit Saint Petersburg?
Entry requirements follow Russia rules. Most Western citizens require a visa to enter Russia; e-visa is available for many nationalities. Check current advisories before travel. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in Saint Petersburg?
The currency in Saint Petersburg is the Russian Ruble (RUB). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Saint Petersburg?
The main language(s) spoken in Saint Petersburg: Russian. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in Saint Petersburg?
The top attractions in Saint Petersburg include State Hermitage Museum, Church on Spilled Blood, Peter and Paul Fortress, Mariinsky Theatre, and Saint Isaac's Cathedral. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.