St Petersburg Russia 3 Day Itinerary

St. Petersburg, Russia: A 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of St. Petersburg

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Lemon, a popular local spot known for its diverse menu and cozy atmosphere.
  • Visit the iconic Hermitage Museum, one of the oldest and largest museums in the world, housing over 3 million items including works from Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Rembrandt, and many more. (Note: The Hermitage is closed on Thursdays.)
  • After exploring the Hermitage, take a leisurely stroll along the Palace Embankment, offering beautiful views of the Neva River and some of St. Petersburg’s most famous architectural landmarks.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at Sviatoi Yablochik, a charming restaurant serving traditional Russian cuisine in a fairytale setting.
  • Head to Peter and Paul Fortress, the birthplace of St. Petersburg, where you can visit the Peter and Paul Cathedral, the Trubetskoy Bastion Prison Museum, and enjoy the panoramic view of the city from the fortress’s walls.
  • Explore The Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, a stunningly ornate orthodox church built in memory of Tsar Alexander III. (Note: There is an entry fee to enter the church.)

Evening:

  • Dinner at Oblomov Cafe, a restaurant offering a modern take on traditional Russian cuisine.
  • Take a romantic stroll along the Canal Griboyedova Embankment and the Nevsky Prospect, two of the city’s most famous avenues, before returning to your accommodation.

Day 2: Discovering St. Petersburg’s Artistic Side

Morning:

  • Breakfast at Bakery House, a popular spot known for its fresh pastries and coffee.
  • Visit the Russian Museum, home to the largest collection of Russian art in the world, including works by Kandinsky, Repin, and Vasnetsov.
  • Explore the beautiful Mikhailovsky Castle and its adjacent gardens.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at Zhukova Cuisine, a restaurant specializing in modern Russian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
  • Head to the Erasburg Factory, a historic confectionery where you can sample traditional St. Petersburg sweets and learn about their production process.
  • Visit the State Memorial and Museum of Aleksandr Pushkin, dedicated to Russia’s most famous poet, located in the writer’s former estate.

Evening:

  • Dinner at Teremok, a popular fast food chain specializing in blini (Russian crepes).
  • Take a relaxing boat tour along the Canals of St. Petersburg, offering stunning views of the city’s many landmarks and bridges.

Day 3: Experiencing St. Petersburg’s Hidden Gems

Morning:

  • Breakfast at Et Cetera, a cozy cafe offering a variety of delicious dishes and pastries.
  • Visit the Anichkov Palace, home to the Russian Museum’s collection of Western European art, as well as the stunning Anichkov Bridge, adorned with bronze sculptures depicting the Battle of Borodino.
  • Explore the charming neighborhood of Koptyegi, known for its colorful wooden houses and peaceful atmosphere.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at Veselka, a restaurant offering a wide variety of traditional Russian dishes in a cozy, homey setting.
  • Visit the Russian Ethnographic Museum, dedicated to showcasing Russia’s diverse cultures and traditions.
  • Head to the Peterhof Gardens and explore the lower park, known for its cascades, fountains, and stunning landscapes. (Note: There is an entry fee to enter the gardens.)

Evening:

  • Dinner at Zhukovsky, a restaurant offering a wide variety of dishes inspired by the culinary traditions of Russia’s regions.
  • Take a stroll along the Ladoga Embankment, enjoying the beautiful views of the Neva River and the illuminated city skyline.

Things to Know:

  • St. Petersburg is a vibrant, bustling city with much to see and do. Make sure to plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of your time there.
  • Public transportation in St. Petersburg is reliable and affordable. The metro system is clean, efficient, and offers a glimpse into the city’s rich architectural history.
  • Russian is the official language of Russia, but many people working in the tourism industry speak English. However, it is always helpful to learn a few basic phrases.
  • Tipping is not customary in Russia, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated by service staff.
  • Be aware of pickpockets and petty crime in crowded tourist areas. Keep your belongings secure at all times.
  • Enjoy your trip to St. Petersburg and take in as much of the city’s rich history, culture, and beauty as you can!