FIFA WORLD CUP 2018
Saint-Petersburg, Russia

This year the World Football Cup will be held in Russia in numerous cities across the country such as Moscow, Sochi, Kazan, Ekaterinburg, Kaliningrad, Nizhni Novgorod, Rostov-On-Don, Volgograd, Samara and Saransk.

Matches

Group matches will be held in Saint Petersburg on the 15-19-22 and 29th of June. On these days, in addition to Russian fans, guests from Morocco, Egypt, Iran, Costa Rica, Nigeria, as well as the illustrious football countries of Argentina and Brazil will be welcomed with open arms to Russia’s Northern capital. Then, the city will host the 1/4 finals on July 3rd, as well as the semi-final and the match for the 3rd place on 10th and 14th of July.

Although the most popular tourist destination remains Moscow, many would argue that the most breathtaking and awe-inspiring Russian city remains Saint Petersburg. Perfectly combining sporting events and the highest quality infrastructures with stunning views, mesmerising culture and genuine hospitality, Saint Petersburg simply steals the show.

Founded in 1703 by Peter the Great, Saint Petersburg is the perfect mix of Europe and Russia. With its golden domes and spires reaching to the stars, enchanting pastel palaces and endless treasures to discover, you simply cannot miss spending a few days here.

City’s museums

The highlights of the city include visiting the State Hermitage Museum created by Catherine the Great herself. Its stunning art collection includes a few Da Vincis’ and Rembrandt’s in its main building, the Winter Palace. As you walk these historical halls, be sure to look up and around, the palace itself is a true work of art with interiors by Italian architect Rastrelli.

Other buildings of the Hermitage complex are also worth a visit such as the General Staff building. With its modern interior architecture, it not only allows you to fully enjoy French impressionist art but also offers a rest from the business of the city as it is often lacking in big tourist groups.

These two parts of the Hermitage are situated opposite each other on Palace Square and are very easy to access from either Nevski Prospekt metro station or Admiralteyskaya metro station. The General Staff building entrance is not always easy to find so we recommend booking a tour to ensure that you do not waste any time and learn all there is to learn about these historical buildings and who walked their halls before you.

Other notable museums in Saint Petersburg include:

The Russian museum with its stunning collection of art and sculptures. From Repin to more modern artists, the Russian museum allows you to discover the history of a great nation from its lightest moments to its darkest, happiest and most disastrous, all through the eyes Russia’s artists. Be sure to book a tour of the Russian museum so as to not miss out on any of the great stories and impressive history that come hand in hand with the art.

The Erarta museum of modern art is also a treat for art lovers. Erarta is the largest private collection of contemporary art in Russia. Showcasing contemporary Russian artists in its permanent collection a well as artists from all over the world in its temporary exhibits, the museum has never once disappointed. From Shnurov to Liu Bolin to Dali and much more, Erarta is unique and will charm even those not yet convinced by contemporary art.

The vodka museum is sure to be of great interest to those of you intrigued by one of Russia’s most famous or at times infamous icons. From learning how it is made, from root to glass, to perhaps elucidating some of the stereotypes surrounding this traditional drink, the vodka museum does not disappoint. Not to mention the tasting that follows the end of the tour…

If you are travelling with children, the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games is certainly one for the whole family. Situated in the centre of the city, a stone’s throw from Nevski Prospekt, let yourself be taken back in time and enjoy a break from the city playing games with family or friend’s just like “the good old days”.

Another highlight of the city is, of course, its birthplace. The Peter and Paul Fortress is where it all began when Peter The Great founded the city. The fortress was built as a defence against the Swedish during the Northern war and was used as a prison until 1920. Simply walking in and around this fortress is a treat if the weather is nice. The banks of Hare island where the fortress is built or the fort’s barricades, boast some of the most stunning views of the Neva River and the South bank of the city with the Hermitage Museum and Marble palace on full display. If the weather is more capricious, you can visit some of the numerous museums in the fortress such as the museum of torture, the museum of the history of Saint Petersburg, the royal mint, the prison where Dostoevski was held and the Peter and Paul Cathedral where the Romanov family are now buried.

The history of this place is so thrilling, there are so many wonderful legends and stories about it that it would truly be a shame not to book a guided tour. Not to mention all the places you can stock up on luck. Trust us you wouldn’t want to miss out on this one!

Beautiful Cathedrals

Saint Petersburg is also rich with beautiful Churches and Cathedrals and although the list is long, the highlights are mostly in the centre and certainly not something you can miss.

Saint Isaacs Cathedral, built in 1858 under the direction of Monferrant, is not only stunningly decorated with bronze, marble, malachite, lazurite and mosaic interiors but also offers some of the most stunning views of the city from its colonnade. Although it is a bit of a climb, the views are breathtaking and one hundred percent worth it.

Another stunning church is The Church Of The Saviour On Spilt Blood. If you think the name is impressive the interiors are simply mesmerizing. Built in the same style as Saint Basil’s in Moscow, this church is now a museum and was erected in honour of Tzar Alexander II on his death place. The interiors are perfectly decorated with thousands of small mosaics depicting Russian Saints. Here most Russians can find the saint they are named after.

Kazan Cathedral is a short walk from Saviour on spill blood but so very different. First of all, it is still a church, so ladies do not forget your headscarves. This church, although Orthodox was modelled on the Saint Peter Basilica in Rome. Here you may witness Sunday mass or beautiful Gregorian or Russian choirs. The interiors are more modestly decorated than other Saint Petersburg churches or cathedrals and the smell of wax and incense fills the air. The atmosphere is peaceful and spiritual and it is certainly a wonderful place to visit for a taste of local life and culture.

All these churches are full of days of old, they are woven into the history of the city and yet again would be less enchanting without a guide. So book a tour and get an insight into Russian culture and religion as well as the history of Saint Petersburg.

The Culture capital

Saint Petersburg has been named the culture capital of Russia and for good reason. Great poets, writers, composers, dancers, musicians and more have walked these streets before you.

Learn about Pushkin, the father of Russian literature. Book a tour and let the guide show you all the places in the city that appear in his books and poems, have a coffee where Pushkin himself once did while discussing literature with his peers and visit his apartment where he took his last breath after the fateful duel that ended his life.

Book another tour and learn all about Dostoevsky, the stories and legends surrounding his books and the places in the city that inspired him so. You may visit his apartment and take a tour of the prison at the Peter and Paul fortress where the Russian writer quite nearly lost his life. Let the guide shed some light on one of the most influential and controversial Russian writers and elucidate the intricate soul that was Dostoevsky.

You should certainly not miss booking a tour to the Alexander Nevski monastery. This monastery founded in 1710 by Peter the Great and shelters some of the most influential and historically famous people in Russia. The main church is stunning and with a little luck and good timing you will be able to hear the talent of the bell ringers. Here are buried the likes of Tchaikovsky, Dostoevsky, Rossi, Suvorov, Lomonosov and many more.

Take this opportunity to ask your guide to take you to Smolny Cathedral. This beautiful blue cathedral is truly a sight to behold and is not easy to get to so we highly suggest you book a tour.

Now home to a faculty of the Saint Petersburg State University, this cathedral built by Elizabeth (Peter the Great’s daughter) was left to decay during the Soviet Union and later reconstructed to be a concert hall. There is much history surrounding this iconic building so make sure you book a tour and don’t miss out on any interesting information.

White Nights

The locals will all tell you that the most beautiful time of year in Saint Petersburg is white nights (beginning of June) so make the most of the beauty of the city well into the early hours of the morning. Either book a walking tour and learn about the myths and legends that surround Saint Petersburg or book a boat tour.

There are about 800 bridges and almost 300km of canals to explore in Saint Petersburg. Boat tours will let you see the city from a different perspective and allow you to learn more about the history of the city as well as its love story with water. Today it is hard to believe that Saint Petersburg used to be a marsh. So just imagine the beauty of the city’s pale hues and soft lights from the river and the best part… it never gets dark.

The Royal suburbs

If the hustle and bustle of the city are getting to you then a day trip outside of Saint Petersburg is a perfect remedy.

Tsarskoe Celo, or Tsar’s village, is always a wonderful day out. Discover where the tsar’s spent their summers, the stunning Alexander and Catherine parks with their lakes and ponds, beautiful boat houses and numerous pavilions. Take a tour of the palace, designed by Charles Cameron, and marvel at the golden ballroom, stunning Dutch fireplaces and learn about the entire imperial family, especially Catherine the Great with her gargantuan wardrobe. Not to mention that here, the notorious amber room was built, stolen during WWII and later reconstructed. This jewel of an estate is situated in a town called Pushkin named after the famous Russian writer and poet who once studied here.

Pavlovsk Park is the perfect place for a lovely walk. Said to be the most beautiful park near Saint-Petersburg with its rolling hills and delightful pavillions, Pavlovsk is only a little further than Pushkin and certainly worth the trip. Although the Pavlovsk palace was also designed by Charles Cameron, it does not hold gold covered ballrooms and endless halls. However, it is still beautiful and gives an insight into the more habitual life of the rulers of Russia. The interiors are decorated with cabinets and desks handmade by Maria Feodorovna, the German wife of Catherine the Great’s son, Peter I. The nature in Pavlovsk is stunning and you simply cannot miss it.

The fountains of Peterhof were built to rival those of Versailles and although the French may disagree, some would argue that they certainly do. Although the Palace does not boast a hall of mirrors, the park and gardens surrounding the estate are stunning. On a hot day, it is the perfect place to enjoy the cool air of the Finnish Gulf, the stunning display of the numerous gold covered fountains and with a little luck, the chance to feed the curious squirrels. Designed by Peter the Great himself, some of the fountains may play tricks on you, so be careful where you step and try not to get wet.

These day trip are most certainly worth leaving Saint Petersburg for the day, however, getting there is not always easy if you do not know the way. We highly recommend booking a tour, not only to make the most of all the insider information you will get but also in terms of ease and safety. You would not want getting lost to spoil a chance at discovering breathtaking new places.

The stadium and shows

In honour of the World Cup, a brand new stadium has been built.

The Krestovsky Stadium first opened in 2017 for the Confederations Cup and can host up to 68,000 visitors. It has a retractable roof the size of three Red Squares. Getting to and from the stadium will be relatively easy. The closest metro station is Krestovsky Ostrov but shuttle buses from Petrogradskaya metro station and Chklovskaya metro station will be doing the rounds every half hour or so. There are already signposts up and during the world cup, there will be volunteers at every street corner ready to help.

As for the after party, well more like the constant party, head to Kanyushnnaya Square just off Nevski Prospekt with the closest metro station being Nevski Prospekt or Amiralteyskaya. During the world cup, there will be numerous events and concerts, shows and festivals and Saint Petersburg is certainly the best place to enjoy it all.

The culture capital of Russia offers thousands of shows. From ballet to opera and theatre to concerts, be it classical or rock there is something for each and everyone to enjoy. Not to mention that in Saint Petersburg you will only and always find the best of the best.

Shows at the world famous Marinskiy, Mikhailovsky or Alexandrinsky theatre sell fast. You would not want to miss out on the most incredible performance of Swan Lake or the Nutcracker so contact us to book before all the tickets are gone.

Enjoy good food

Although there are endless places where to enjoy good food in Saint Petersburg, here are a few favourites.

Market Place: This self-serving chain of restaurants is always a favourite. The food is always fresh and tasty and offers a wide range of options from traditional Russian food to Panasian to fresh salads and delicious desserts. The atmosphere is cosy and you can find a restaurant near most famous landmarks.

Teremok: At this healthier, Russian version of McDonald’s you can try all the Russian classics from blini (pancakes) to kasha with fish eggs. It is not very expensive and a good taste of local cuisine.

Georgian Food: You simply cannot help but fall in love with this delicious cuisine. Think party for your taste buds with grilled meat dishes and flavoursome vegetable options not to mention scrumptious dumplings (khinkali) and wonderful cheesy bread (khachapuri).

A couple of popular places, known for being delicious and democratically priced are Hachapuri & Vino (10 Sotsialisticheskaya Street) and Kazbegi (Fontanka 20).

If you are in the mood to taste any other type of cuisine or want to discover the locals’ favourite dining places, Saint Petersburg is also famous for its delicious and high-class gastronomy. Simply ask your guide and they can even organise a tour to satisfy your taste buds or book any restaurant for you.

Tips for the city:

The bridges: From about April to October, around 12 pm, most bridges in the city open up and truth be told it is a very impressive sight and makes for great pictures. However, if you are stuck on the wrong side of the bridge you might have to spend the night wondering around or find a 24h cafe (don’t worry they are very popular).

Night trains will be available on Line 5 ( Purple Line) from April 30 to November 15 during the time when the bridges across the Neva are raised. Trains will run between Admiralteyskaya and Sportivnaya stations from 1:00 to 3:00 a.m. Passengers can enter Sportivnaya Station via both lobbies.

The trains will run on holidays and weekends (from Friday to Saturday and from Saturday to Sunday), except for the holidays during which the Metro operates around the clock.

Only tokens can be used to pay for journeys at night. Trains depart every 20 minutes.

As for the metro, the map is very easy to navigate and well signposted. You can either buy tokens or a metro card, they are similarly priced.

If you are feeling adventurous you can use the extensive public transport system such as trolleybus, tram, buses… However, it is a little difficult without speaking or reading Russian and the metro will surely get you where you need to go. If you would like to try though ask your guide and they will be able to give you a history of the transport system and explain to you how Russians travel such great distances to work every day.

Best tours and excursions

Although Saint Petersburg is a relatively safe and easy city to navigate, during the World Cup this will surely not be the case. To ensure you learn all there is to learn about this breathtaking city and avoid wasting precious time in endless queues we highly recommend you book a guide. Not to mention that in terms of tour quality, booking a private tour guide for you and your family or friends can easily be the difference between a wonderful trip and a horrendous one. You don’t want to spend time with strangers in big tour groups or be annoyed by them when you are on holiday and trying to enjoy yourself.

Lastly, but perhaps most importantly, not being able to read or speak Russian in the city can be quite challenging so having a private tour guide who will meet you at your hotel and stay with you for as long as you wish will be a great help in terms of security.

So book a tour guide in Saint Petersburg and enjoy the holiday of a lifetime!

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