🌉 Saint Petersburg — The Soul of Russia Saint Petersburg is Russia’s cultural heart — elegant, poetic, and built to impress. Founded by Peter the Great as a “window to Europe,” the city blends imperial grandeur with bohemian charm. Canals, palaces, and white nights make it one of Europe’s most romantic destinations. 🏰 The Hermitage & Palace Square Step into history at the Winter Palace and explore the Hermitage — one of the world’s greatest art museums. Every hall tells a story of tsars, artists, and revolutions. 🚤 Canals & Bridges Take a boat ride through the city’s “Northern Venice” canals. At night, watch the iconic drawbridges rise — a magical ritual of summer life. 🎭 Theaters & Music From the legendary Mariinsky Ballet to intimate jazz clubs, St. Petersburg lives and breathes art. Performances here carry the soul of Russian culture. 🌆 Nevsky Prospekt & Hidden Streets Walk the city’s grand avenue, lined with 18th-century facades, cafés, and bookshops — then wander into side alleys to find art spaces, local bakeries, and indie design stores. 🌿 Parks & Waterfronts Relax in the Summer Garden, admire Peterhof’s fountains, or watch sunsets along the Neva River embankment. Each spot reveals a quieter, more reflective side of the city. 🍽️ Food & Café Scene From elegant riverside dining to cozy coffee corners, St. Petersburg mixes fine cuisine with creative street food. Don’t miss local pastries and modern takes on Russian classics. 📅 Ideal Stay: 3–5 days Enough to explore the highlights, enjoy an evening cruise, and feel the city’s poetic rhythm — especially during the enchanting White Nights.