Places to Visit in St. Petersburg for Free This Summer

St. Petersburg, often referred to as the Venice of the North or the cultural capital of Russia, is a magnificent city located on the Baltic Sea. It was founded by Peter the Great in 1703 and served as the capital of the Russian Empire for two centuries. The city is renowned for its stunning architecture, cultural significance, and historical importance.

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Here are some places you can visit in St. Petersburg without spending money this summer:

Peter and Paul Fortress. This historic fortress is situated on the banks of the Neva River on the Zayachy Island and is the original citadel of St. Petersburg. The Russian emperors and empresses are buried here. The fortress has free entry. From there you can enjoy a scenic view of the river and the city. However, visits to the Peter and Paul Cathedral, the Prison of the Trubetskoy Bastion, and a few other places within the fortress require entry fees (although student discounts are available).

Kazan Cathedral. It is a Russian Orthodox cathedral located on Nevsky Prospekt. Kazan Cathedral resembles the iconic St. Peter's Basilica in Rome and is an impressive architectural gem known for its magnificent exterior and beautiful interior. One can enjoy its stunning architecture and religious artwork without paying an entrance fee. The cathedral is one of the most popular attractions for both the locals and the visitors.

Palace Square. The Palace Square (or Dvortsovaya Ploshchad in Russian) is the central city square of St. Petersburg. It is a place of utmost historic importance, as many significant historical events including parts of a revolution took place in this square. The square is surrounded by significant landmarks and architectural masterpieces and one can enjoy the views of the Winter Palace, the Alexander Column, and the General Staff Building for free. Not only this, the place also serves as a gathering point for various celebrations throughout the year.

Nevsky Prospekt. It is one of the city's main streets and a vibrant hub of activity. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. One can simply take a stroll along the main avenue and admire beautiful architecture and local boutiques, visit various shops, and cafes, and enjoy delicious cuisines from all over the world, as well as the lively atmosphere of this bustling street. It is a perfect place for a leisurely evening stroll, cafehopping, and sightseeing.

Summer Garden. The Summer Garden is a public garden created by Peter the Great in 1704. Located in the heart of the city, it allows you to enjoy a leisurely walk and relax amidst nature. It has numerous fountains, sculptures and statues, well-manicured gardens, and flowerbeds. One can enjoy the beauty of this place in sunny weather, accompanied by friends or family by taking a stroll around the garden or simply finding a spot to relax amidst the greenery.

Alexandrinsky Theater. For someone interested in the performing arts, the Alexandrinsky Theater is one of the best places to visit this summer. It is one of Russia's oldest and most prestigious theaters. While attending a performance at the theater usually requires purchasing tickets, you can often find open-air rehearsals or performances in public spaces nearby, which are free to watch. Even if there are no performances taking place, the theater's beautiful facade is worth seeing.

Yelagin Island. Yelagin Island is located in the Neva River in the northwest part of St. Petersburg. It is a recreational area known for its beautiful landscapes and serene atmosphere. It offers various activities during the summer, and entry to the island itself is free on weekdays (there is a nominal entry fee on weekends and holidays). Yelagin Island is a popular spot for picnics, cycling, walking, jogging, and playing outdoor games. During the summer months, Yelagin Island often hosts cultural events and festivals. Remember to check the local event calendars to see if there are any concerts, performances, or exhibitions taking place during your visit to Yelagin island.

Spending summer in St. Petersburg can be a wonderful experience. From exploring the historical center, to relaxing in parks and on beaches, enjoying white nights, and attending cultural festivals, there is so much to do. However, do remember to check the opening hours and any current restrictions or guidelines before visiting these attractions and places for a better experience.

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