Cool off in style

The sun may not be a frequent guest in our city, but when it does grace us with its presence, it gives its all. But hey, that’s just another excuse to treat your inner gourmand! Luckily, we’ve got everything covered already: start with our list of top summer foods, read up on the most refreshing drinks to try in town, and finish off with some dessert – courtesy of the ice cream lover’s guide to St. Petersburg.

Take a day trip

For those who love to get out of town, St. Petersburg is the perfect destination. There are amazing places to see in every direction, regardless of whether you're into nature, culture, or both. And the sprawling rail network means you needn’t worry about traffic jams!

You may, for instance, explore the quaint suburban towns such as Pavlovsk or Pushkin. With their resplendent palaces and grand parks, there’s an atmosphere that’s quite unlike anything else. These are, of course, just two examples – there are plenty of others to choose from. 

And if your goal is to get away from cities altogether, you’re in luck, too. Eco-paths remain a major fad, and for good reason: they are an excellent way to explore the region’s diverse nature without getting into the muck or disturbing the nature. And for true outdoors enthusiasts, there are wilder destinations, as well.

Check the Travel Tips tag for even more suggestions!

Try mushroom picking

Speaking of nature getaways – why not, as the Russian saying goes, combine the pleasant with the useful and partake in the traditional pastime of mushroom hunting? Though it may seem like a daunting task, it’s actually quite simple. Just follow this guide and remember that it’s not really about mushrooms at all, but the serenity – and, if you’re with friends, the camaraderie (and a tinge of competitiveness). Don’t believe it? Read this personal account from one of our writers.

Remember to take all necessary precautions: know how to find your way out of a forest and don’t eat mushrooms you can’t identify as edible! For your first trip, it’s best to come along with an experienced mushroom picker.

Enjoy seasonal fruit and veg

If you’re not that adventurous, you can always take the easy way out and still treat yourself to something delicious. With summer in town, now’s the time to enjoy the (literal) fruits of the land, either in pure form or by unleashing your inner chef. Luckily, we’ve covered this, too: simply follow this guide to seasonal fruit and veg, complete with suggestions ranging from simple salads to pickled watermelon!