The idea of the third place

The concept is pretty simple: your first place is home, your second place is where you work or study, and your third place is somewhere you go to when you long for more. It can be anything, from a coffee shop you visit every morning to a gym where everybody knows you. The key is that it makes you rise above the routine, meet new people, or learn something new, without expectations and demands. 

Finding your third place can be especially beneficial when you relocate and try to fit into a new community and adjust to an unfamiliar lifestyle. It can make you feel more grounded and opens up new opportunities for joy and communication.

Third place suggestions

We’ve already shared dozens of welcoming locations to visit in St. Petersburg. Below you can find some of our favorites, grouped by category. Browse through as you search for new spots to explore – who knows, maybe your soon-to-become favorite hangout place is just a link away.

Arts & Entertainment:

• Enjoy art on a dime

• Watch movies in English and other languages

• Visit cult rock locations

Sports & Activities:

• Try fun & wacky sports: Part 1 & Part 2

• Go for a swim

Hobbies & Productivity:

• Learn new skills

• Try film photography

• Work, study, or be creative in coworking spaces

Spirituality & Reflection:

• Explore local religious diversity

• See cathedrals, churches, and temples

Cafes & Coffee shops:

• Start your day with a top-notch breakfast

• Chat to a barista about specialty coffee

• Become a regular at top pizza spots

• Find your favorite place with spicy food

ITMO as your third place

Technically, if you study or work at ITMO, the university is your second place. But with stunning coworking spaces, diverse student clubs, outdoor camp Yagodnoe, and other community-building opportunities for leisure and connection, ITMO can totally become your third place too, if it hasn’t already. IT’s MOre than a university, after all!