St. Petersburg: Half-Day Private Tour to Kronshtadt

St. Petersburg: Half-Day Private Tour to Kronshtadt

8 Reviews

Culture & History History & Heritage Day Trips Sightseeing Tours Day Trips From Day Trips To

Learn the history of the Russian navy on a fascinating 4-hour tour of Kronshtadt, located on the Gulf of Finland close to St. Petersburg. Walk along the banks of Kotlin Island, and visit the splendid Naval Cathedral, one of the historic forts, and more.

Highlights

Discover the once closed district of Kronshtadt, St. Petersburg's main seaport and naval base
Explore one of the small fortress islands of the Gulf of Finland
Go to the splendid Naval Cathedral, and learn how it was used as a lookout
Wander the streets to see 19th-century architecture and more

Description

The Kronshtadt district of St. Petersburg has played a leading role in Russian history since its first fortifications were laid in 1704. Located on Kotlin Island, 19 miles (30 kilometers) west of St. Petersburg proper, the city’s main seaport, it is also the traditional seat of the Russian Admiralty. Founded by Emperor Peter the Great as a maritime fortress and naval base, the port is ice-bound for 140–160 days of the year, from the beginning of December through April. A large proportion of the inhabitants are sailors, adding to the maritime atmosphere. During your tour, you will walk along the banks of Kronshtadt with a private guide, and enjoy the splendor of the Naval Cathedral, once the main lookout with a reach of some 28 miles (45 kilometers). You will also explore one of the original “forts” - actually fortified artificial islands in the Gulf of Finland.