Autumn Vibes in St. Petersburg: A Season to Experience

Autumn is a magical time in St. Petersburg, where the crisp air and changing colors breathe new life into the city. From the city's vibrant streets to its quiet parks, autumn brings a charm that deserves to be explored and experienced to the fullest.

Photo by Jakob Owens on Unsplash

1. The beauty of autumn in St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg in autumn feels like a painting come to life. The city’s iconic parks — Summer Garden, Tavrichesky Garden, and Peterhof, all turn into golden wonderlands. The Summer Garden, with its statues and tree-lined pathways, becomes a golden paradise, perfect for leisurely walks. Strolling through these parks, with the crunch of leaves underfoot and the cool breeze on your face, offers a moment of peace amidst busy life. For me, these walks have become a cherished autumn ritual.

If you’re into photography, you’ll find yourself surrounded by picture perfect scenes everywhere you go! Every corner of the city becomes a potential photo opportunity, with historical landmarks looking even more striking against the autumn backdrop.

2. Seasonal activities

Autumn in St. Petersburg also brings with it an array of seasonal activities perfect for every age group. One of my favorite activities is exploring the cozy cafes scattered around the city. Imagine sitting by the window with a warm drink, watching the leaves fall — it’s the perfect setting to dive into a book or get some work done. There’s just something comforting about it. Literaturnoye Kafe or Literary Cafe, Cafe Troitskiy Most (has vegan-and vegetarian-friendly options) and the Rene Cafe (with a stunning view of Kazan Cathedral and Nevsky Prospect) are some of my personal favorites.

If you’re into arts and culture, this season is ideal for exploring the city’s museums and theaters. St. Petersburg’s cultural scene is rich and diverse, with something for everyone. I love attending performances at the Mariinsky Theatre or visiting exhibitions, as it’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

3. Embracing the autumn weather

St. Petersburg’s autumn weather can be unpredictable. Some days are bright and shiny, while others are rainy and gray. As an international student, I quickly learned the importance of dressing for the season. My top advice? Layer up! A good coat, waterproof boots, and cozy scarves are lifesavers during this time of year. Not only will you stay warm, but you’ll be ready for whatever the weather throws at you.

If you’re new to the city and haven’t stocked up on winter wear, don’t worry, autumn is a perfect time to prepare your wardrobe. Local stores and markets often have sales on winter clothes, allowing you to stock up before the colder months set in. Galeria Mall is my go to place for buying all the winter wear items. Staying comfortable and warm during your outdoor explorations will make the season much more enjoyable.

4. Autumn as a time of reflection and growth

Autumn isn’t just about the changing weather; it's also a season for reflection and personal growth. For students, it's an opportunity to refocus on academic goals and personal well-being. It’s also a great time to pick up new hobbies, be creative, or simply spend time relaxing with friends.

Personally, I’ve found that this season allows me to reset and recharge. Between the hustle of academic deadlines and the start of new courses, autumn allows you to prepare mentally for the upcoming winter season.

5. Tips for making the most of autumn

There are countless ways to fully embrace autumn in St. Petersburg. Here are some practical tips that have helped me make the most of this season:

• Explore lesser-known areas. While the main parks and gardens are beautiful, don’t hesitate to explore smaller, lesser-known spots. You’ll often find hidden gems away from the usual tourist trails. A few weeks ago, I visited Lomonosov and I was amazed by the view of the Oranienbaum park. The Chinese Palace within the park is lined with golden trees and the ground covered with fallen red and orange leaves made it a perfect spot for an autumn stroll.
• Find cozy study spots. Whether it's a quiet cafe or one of the many libraries around the city, finding a warm and quiet place to study can make a big difference in staying productive. Plus, it’s a nice change of scenery from the usual study spaces. On days when I don’t want to study in my room, I go to the Prosto coworking near Vasileostrovskaya metro station or simply to ITMO’s coworking spaces on Kronverksky and Lomonosova campuses.
• Warm up with seasonal treats. Autumn is the perfect time to try some of the city’s warm, hearty dishes. Borscht, pelmeni, and seasonal pastries are great comfort foods that will keep you warm during chilly days.
• Engage with Russian culture. Join local clubs, attend language exchange meetups, or even take a short course in a new hobby. Autumn is a great time to meet new people and get involved in the student and local communities. I have been a frequent attendee of ITMO’s English Speaking club and so far have enjoyed all the activities including the Halloween-themed meeting, movie night, etc.

Autumn in St. Petersburg is more than just a season, it’s an experience. Whether you're enjoying the city’s natural beauty, getting lost in a cozy cafe, or reflecting on your journey as a student, there’s so much to appreciate. So, grab a warm drink, bundle up, and soak in everything this wonderful season has to offer!

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