St. Petersburg, Russia, often referred to as the cultural capital of the country, is a dazzling display of history, art, and modernity. Founded by Tsar Peter the Great in 1703 as a window to Europe, this vibrant city is renowned for its majestic architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. From opulent palaces to picturesque canals, St. Petersburg offers a unique blend of historical grandeur and contemporary energy that captivates everyone who visits. Here’s your guide to experiencing the BEST of St. Petersburg.
#### 1. **Hermitage Museum**
One cannot think of St. Petersburg without mentioning the Hermitage Museum. Housing over three million items, including paintings by da Vinci, Rembrandt, and Picasso among others, it’s one of the largest and oldest museums in the world. The main complex itself comprises six historic buildings along Palace Embankment, including the Winter Palace – a former residence of Russian emperors.
#### 2. **Peterhof Palace**
Often dubbed as the “Russian Versailles,” Peterhof Palace is an extravagant complex with gardens and fountains that will leave you spellbound. Created on the behest of Peter the Great as a testament to Russia’s naval prowess, this palace features remarkable cascades and over 150 fountains gushing with no pumps but by natural water pressure.
#### 3. **Church of Our Savior on Spilled Blood**
This marvelous Russian-style church was built on the site where Emperor Alexander II was assassinated in 1881. With its intricate mosaics (covering more than 7,500 square meters), onion-domed spires and vivid colors stand out against St. Petersburg’s often cloudy backdrop.
#### 4. **Mariinsky Theatre**
For lovers of opera or ballet, Mariinsky Theatre presents world-class performances that are synonymous with Russian culture’s refinement and depth in performing arts. Originating from imperial times back in 1860s under different names (like Kirov Ballet during Soviet times), it has launched numerous famed artists like Anna Pavlova.
#### 5. **Stroll along Nevsky Prospect**
Experience everyday Russian life along Nevsky Prospect – St Petersburg’s main avenue where you can shop till you drop or simply enjoy local eateries serving everything from traditional Russian dishes to international cuisine.
#### 6. **Catherine Palace**
Located in Pushkin town (formerly Tsarskoye Selo), Catherine Palace stands out with its striking blue exterior adorned with gold leaf accents which illustrate Rococo architecture at its finest – especially its famous Amber Room which is lined completely with amber panels backed with gold leaf and mirrors.
#### 7. **Russian Museum**
If you want to delve deeper into Russian art history across all genres from ancient artifacts till modern art – then make sure not to miss visiting Mikhailovsky Palace which houses State Russian Museum showcasing more than 400 thousand artworks representing various iconic periods including avant-garde movements.
#### 8. **Enjoy a Canal Cruise**
Given its nickname “Venice of North”, exploring St Petersburg through its waterways provide another vantage point of this magnificent city lined up with baroque buildings reflecting beautifully off tranquil waters during summer evenings or white snowy caps during winters.
#### 9**Take part in “White Nights” Festival**
Occurring during summer solstice when nights barely darken beyond twilight due to city’s northern geographical location — experience never-ending daylight hours filled with festivities from ballet performances at Mariinsky Theatre to classical music concerts organized throughout city hubs attracting tourists globally bringing an ethereal charm only found here during this season.
### Conclusion
St Petersburg enriches visitors not just visually but also spiritually through its deep-rooted heritage sites intertwined gracefully with urban modernity keeping alive tsarist-era extravagance coupled together seamlessly within today’s bustling metropolis framework making it truly one-of-a-kind destination worth exploring extensively!