Excursions:

The first stop for a first time visitor is Palace Square. The Square is bounded by the incredible Winter Palace, the stunning General Staff Building and the incomparable Admiralty with the Alexander Column standing proudly in the center. The sheer vastness of the square and the beauty of the buildings is breath-taking. The Winter Palace was the residence of Russian emperors, and the exquisite green and white baroque building really has to be seen to be fully appreciated. The Hermitage Museum owns the largest museum collection in the world, which is located in 6 buildings, one of which is the Winter Palace.

The imposing St. Isaac’s Cathedral, standing not far from the shore of the Neva River, is one of the world’s largest churches. Architect Auguste de Montferrand’s vision took 40 years to complete with construction lasting from 1818-1858. Like most things in St. Petersburg, the cathedral is named in honor of Peter the Great: his birthday was on St. Isaac of Dalmatia’s feast day. Whether viewed from the traffic-choked Isaac’s Square side or from across the beautifully-tended gardens that lead from the cathedral to the Neva, St. Isaac’s is a striking sight.

For a trip outside of town head to Peterhof Palace. Not too far from the center, a visit here will allow you to experience what Imperial Russia was like. A truly exquisite estate with gorgeous gardens, fantastic fountains and picturesque palaces, Peterhof matches any in Europe and has been called “The Russian Versailles.” The estate consists of the Upper Gardens and the Lower Gardens which are separated by a natural 16 meter high bluff. On this bluff is the focal point of Peterhof: the Grand Palace and the Grand Cascade.