Saint Petersburg 3 Day Itinerary
Saint Petersburg 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: City Center Exploration
Morning:
- Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe L’Hermitage located near the Hermitage Museum.
- Visit the State Hermitage Museum, one of the largest museums in the world with an impressive collection from the Stone Age to the 20th century.
Afternoon:
- Head to Church of our Savior on Spilled Blood for its stunning architectural design and rich history.
- Explore the nearby Griboyedov Canal and Spasskaya Street, known for their beautiful Baroque-style buildings.
- For lunch, try traditional Russian cuisine at Korzheva near the Church of our Savior on Spilled Blood.
Evening:
- Take a stroll along the Nevsky Prospect and visit the Eliseyev Emporium, a historic shopping arcade with an impressive interior design.
- Have dinner at Belmond Eurostars Hotel’s Belmond Restaurant for a fine dining experience.
Transportation:
- The city is well connected by the Metro, trams, and buses. You can purchase tickets from any metro station or at kiosks near stops.
Day 2: Peterhof and Peter and Paul Fortress
Morning:
- Start your day with a visit to the Peter and Paul Fortress, the original citadel of St. Petersburg. Climb the tower for panoramic views of the city.
Afternoon:
- Head to Peterhof (Hydrofoil boat from the Hermitage Embankment), also known as “Russian Versailles.” Explore its beautiful gardens and fountains.
- For lunch, grab a bite at one of the cafes in Peterhof.
Evening:
- Return to Saint Petersburg and explore St Isaac’s Cathedral (located near the Admiralty building). If you have time, visit its observation deck for a stunning view of the city.
- Dine at Oblomov Cafe Restaurant for some traditional Russian dishes.
Day 3: Art and Canals
Morning:
- Visit the Erarta Museum of Contemporary Art to explore modern and contemporary art from Russia and beyond.
- Have lunch at the museum’s cafe or nearby at Telman Cafe.
Afternoon:
- Take a Canal Cruise to see some of Saint Petersburg’s famous landmarks from a different perspective, such as the Summer Garden and Palace Square.
- Explore the Summer Garden, one of the oldest city gardens in Saint Petersburg, located near the Hermitage Museum.
Evening:
- Enjoy a final dinner at Twins Garden Restaurant & Bar for some international cuisine with a modern twist.
Where to Stay:
- The Belmond Grand Hotel Europe offers luxury accommodations and is centrally located.
- For a more budget-friendly option, consider the Hotel 33.
Things to Know:
- Saint Petersburg can be quite chilly, even in summer, so pack layers.
- Always have some small change for using public restrooms (about 10 rubles).
- Be mindful of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas like the metro and near major tourist attractions.
Tips:
- Purchase the Saint Petersburg Card for free or discounted access to most museums and attractions, as well as free public transportation.
- Learn a few basic Russian phrases to make your interactions with locals smoother.