Former capital of Russia, Saint-Petersburg is a city that captures the imagination. In fact, the city itself was born from a dream of Tsar Peter the Great who wished to see his country blessed with the most beautiful capital the world had ever known. But in barely a decade, what was merely a vision became reality, and Russia found itself in possession of what Britannica Encyclopedia describes as: "one of Europe's most splendid and harmonious metropolises." Today, the cultural capital of Russia, Saint Petersburg transports its visitors into a world of beauty through its bridges, parks, fountains, cathedrals and sumptuous palaces.

A Touch of History

Saint-Petersburg, nicknamed "the Venice of the North" because of its numerous canals and romantic character, is one of Europe's most beautiful cities. It was born from the ambition of a Tsar, Peter the Great, who dreamed of giving his country a "window onto Europe."

Indeed, the history of Saint-Petersburg begins in the late 17th century, when Russia's expansion was hindered by its lack of access to the sea. However, the territory closest to the sea belonged to Sweden. So, to realize his dreams, the young Tsar declared war on Sweden in 1700. Although this first attempt failed, Peter the Great did not give up and succeeded in 1703 in driving the Swedes from the coveted territory. After their withdrawal, the sovereign quickly built a fortress to defend himself. Thus, on May 16, 1703, the construction of what we know today as the Peter and Paul Fortress was recognized as the founding date of the city of Saint-Petersburg.

Unlike other cities in the country, Saint-Petersburg was built at an incredible pace. In barely a decade, the city had nearly 35,000 buildings, something unprecedented for the era. By 1712, the government offices that had been based in Moscow were relocated to the new city, which that same year became the capital of great Russia, a status it held for two centuries. The 18th century was a period of glory for Saint-Petersburg with the emergence of the city's emblematic monuments such as palaces, churches, government buildings, and more.

In the early 20th century, the city became a military power and the birthplace of two great revolutions. Saint-Petersburg began to lose its status as the capital of Russia and was renamed Petrograd. Then, in honor of the father of the Russian Revolution and the first leader of the Soviet Union, Vladimir Lenin, who died in 1924, the city took the name Leningrad, before returning to its original name, Saint-Petersburg, in 1991.

The city of tsars and poets as it is also known, was not spared by the two great wars that cost the lives of more than a million of its inhabitants. However, at the end of the Second World War, reconstructions were carried out at the same pace as the creation of the city. Today, Saint-Petersburg has become once again the splendid city endowed with a unique charm thanks to its monuments, its bridges, and not forgetting its fascinating history.

Discovering the City of Saint-Petersburg

Travelers visiting Saint-Petersburg for the first time are often somewhat disoriented, so many are the places to visit in the city. A simple stroll through the city transforms itself into a true sightseeing tour where discoveries and wonder accompany each step. Added to this, Saint-Petersburg holds countless invaluable artistic and cultural treasures. Among the must-sees, for example, you have the Hermitage Museum. It is nothing less than the world's largest museum in terms of objects on display. To give you an idea of the scale of this place, it is estimated that if a person spent only one minute in front of each displayed object, it would take them several years to visit the museum in its entirety.

Saint-Petersburg is also renowned for its fountains, parks, palaces and cathedrals whose beauty is rarely matched, even nowadays. Like Moscow, which also has one of the world's most sumptuous metro systems. A simple metro ride is itself a true cultural treat. In fact, the famous American newspaper "The New York Times" described Saint-Petersburg's metro as a "succession of 20th-century underground palaces."

As for nightlife, the mythical "White Nights" are not to be missed. As the name suggests, this is a festival that takes place during the long summer days when night no longer falls. While festivities begin in early May, the festival is in full swing in mid-June when concert halls, bars and restaurants are packed.

The Best Time to Visit Saint-Petersburg

While most travelers choose summer to visit Saint-Petersburg, know that this is a destination worth visiting in every season.

Of course, in summer (between late May and late August), temperatures are pleasant, and thanks to its geographical position at the northern edge of the country, Saint-Petersburg enjoys exceptional luminosity offering breathtaking scenery during this time of year. However, the other seasons are not to be overlooked either, especially if you want to enjoy this magnificent city away from the crowds.

Approximately 800 km separate the city of Saint-Petersburg from the capital, Moscow. Four options are available for you to get there.

By Air

Flying is the simplest and fastest way to reach Saint-Petersburg from Moscow. Moreover, every day, several airlines operate this route, such as Aeroflot, S7 Airlines, Rossiya Airlines, Utair, and Orenburg Airlines.

By Train

The train is also an excellent way to reach Saint-Petersburg from Moscow. Moreover, you have a choice between the high-speed train (Sapsan) during the day, and overnight trains, the most famous of which are the Red Arrow and the Grand Express. While the former takes approximately 4 hours to reach its destination, overnight trains complete the journey in 8 to 9 hours.

By Bus

Saint-Petersburg is served by numerous bus companies from Moscow. However, given the great distance (approximately 800 km) separating these two cities, this option is recommended for those who are not pressed for time and who wish to discover the magnificent landscapes of Eastern Europe.

By Boat

Many also choose to reach Saint-Petersburg by boat during a cruise departing from Moscow.