St. Petersburg

National Geographic picked in 2009

Country : Russia

Currency : Ruble

Big Mac Index : 1.74

Travel Safety : High Risk

St. Petersburg, Russia is a city of great historical and cultural significance. Founded in 1703 by Peter the Great, it was the capital of the Russian Empire for over 200 years and is home to some of the country's most famous landmarks, museums and palaces. Whether you're interested in art, history or architecture. St. Petersburg is sure to impress. Getting There: St. Petersburg is served by Pulkovo Airport, which is located around 20 km south of the city center. The airport is well-connected to major cities around the world with several airlines offering direct flights to St. Petersburg. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi or public transportation to the city center. Taxis are readily available outside the airport but be sure to negotiate the price before getting in. Alternatively, you can take the Aeroexpress train, which operates between the airport and the city center. The journey takes around 30-40 minutes and trains run every 30 minutes. The cost of a one-way ticket is around 500 RUB. Things to See and Do: - The Hermitage Museum: One of the largest and most famous art museums in the world, the Hermitage Museum is home to an incredible collection of art and artifacts. The museum is housed in the Winter Palace, a stunning baroque building that was once the residence of the Russian tsars. - The Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood: This stunning cathedral is one of the most iconic sights in St. Petersburg. Built on the site where Tsar Alexander II was assassinated, the church is adorned with colorful mosaics and intricate details. - Peterhof Palace: Also known as the "Russian Versailles," Peterhof Palace is a grand complex of palaces, gardens and fountains. The palace was built by Peter the Great and is a testament to his love of lavish architecture and landscaping. - St. Isaac's Cathedral: This impressive neoclassical cathedral is one of the largest in the world and offers stunning views of the city from its dome. The interior is just as impressive with intricate frescoes and mosaics. - Nevsky Prospekt: St. Petersburg's main thoroughfare, Nevsky Prospekt, is lined with shops, restaurants and historic buildings. A stroll along this bustling street is a great way to soak up the city's atmosphere and see some of its iconic architecture. When to Visit: St. Petersburg is a beautiful city to visit year-round, but the best time to go depends on what you're looking for. Summer is the peak tourist season, and the city is at its most vibrant during this time with the famous White Nights festival. Spring and fall are also great times to visit, as the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Winter can also be a magical time to visit, as the city is covered in snow and the Christmas and New Year's celebrations are truly spectacular. Tips: - Be prepared for the weather: St. Petersburg can be quite cold in the winter, so be sure to bring warm clothing. - Get a Museum Card: This card gives you discounted or free entry to many of the city's museums and is a great way to save money. - Learn some Russian: Knowing a few basic phrases will make your visit to St. Petersburg much more enjoyable, as not everyone speaks English. - Get a visa: Unless you're from a visa-free country, you'll need a visa to enter Russia. The process can be time-consuming, so be sure to apply well in advance of your trip.

Photo - Unsplash: Maria Rodideal