St. Petersburg

Hailed as the “Venice of the North” for its canals and waterways, St Petersburg represents Russia’s European presence fusing a stylistic allegiance to Europe with elegant Russian architecture. Though completely devastated during the siege in WWII, the city has successfully restored its glamour and embodies a deep historic spirit of reform.

A fantastic year-round destination with enchanting winter skies and otherworldly midsummer nights, the city houses one of the world’s greatest art galleries, the Hermitage, reflecting the strength and authority of former imperial Russia, whilst the golden dome of St Isaac’s Cathedral dominates the skyline generating dramatic views from the colonnade. St Petersburg also boasts vast palaces, ideal for private exploration or gala dining, a fine example being the Yusupov Palace. Another example lies to the south of Pushkin where Catherine I commissioned her grand Summer Palace in 1717. The flamboyant Rococco style and lavish interior were added over the years by subsequent Empresses.

Discover some of Russia’s hidden treasures: visit the vast Hermitage store rooms, enjoy high tea at the home of a famous Russian artist as he entertains you with stories of this intriguing country or go behind the scenes to the normally unseen areas of the famous Mariinsky Theatre.