Russia's Northern capital is a magnificent city to explore, with its imperial architecture, hundreds of canals, and world-class museums. But if you have time during your stay in the city of the Tsars, plan a weekend getaway to one of these cities:

Moscow

Moscow is now within reach for a two-day trip from Saint Petersburg. With the express train, you'll arrive in the Russian capital in less than four hours. You can also travel by overnight sleeper train, arriving at dawn to make the most of your sightseeing time.

Russia's capital, Moscow is a city worth visiting at least once in a lifetime. A weekend is admittedly brief to explore this megacity, but it allows you to see the essential sights, including the Kremlin and Red Square. Moscow is an immense and charming city with numerous neighborhoods, each with its own character, historic buildings, cosmopolitan restaurants, and ultramodern skyscrapers. Plan the rest of your itinerary according to your interests: a stroll along the legendary Moskova River, a visit to a museum dedicated to your favorite artist, a river cruise, a forest walk, or a ballet performance at the Bolshoi Theatre…

Veliky Novgorod

This magnificent historic city lies midway between Moscow and Saint Petersburg, about three hours by train from Russia's Northern capital. It's a wonderful destination to discover an authentic Kremlin and trace the threads of Russian history. The city is home to a stunning red Kremlin dating from the 15th century and one of Russia's oldest churches, dating from the 11th century. Veliky Novgorod is considered the birthplace of modern Russia, and it's an ideal place to immerse yourself in the age of the Tsars. Its Kremlin is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Take time to visit the wooden architecture museum at Vitoslavlitsi. This vast open-air museum set within beautiful forest grounds houses traditional wooden structures characteristic of Russian architecture that are truly charming.

Kizhi Islands

Head to the Republic of Karelia for a complete change of scenery and a taste of Russian countryside. If you have only a weekend ahead, visit Karelia's capital, Petrozavodsk. This charming city situated on the shores of Lake Onega promises nature-filled relaxation and historical exploration. You can visit the puppet museum and stroll along the lake.

Dedicate a day to visiting Kizhi island, a true marvel of Russia. It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places to visit in Russia. This island on Lake Onega is home to magnificent traditional wooden churches. You'll need to take a boat to reach it. Let yourself be enchanted by Russian religious chants, the sound of bells that alone breaks the silence of this sanctuary, and admire these unparalleled wooden structures. Moreover, the churches were built without nails. This wooden architecture museum represents the different beauties to discover throughout the country. Kizhi island is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage and transports its visitors into a true Russian fairy tale. You can also discover the ancestral way of life in Russia.

The train journey from Saint Petersburg to Petrozavodsk takes less than six hours.

Ruskeala National Park

If you want to escape the bustle and immerse yourself in nature, nothing beats a weekend in the heart of Ruskeala National Park in Karelia, located just under five hours' drive from Saint Petersburg. It's one of the favorite destinations for locals and their Finnish neighbors. Ruskeala Park boasts magnificent peaceful forests, waterways and fountains—in short, an ideal setting for fishing, hiking, or picnicking.