Summer White Nights: The Ultimate St Petersburg Experience

Witness the mesmerizing phenomenon of White Nights



Part of the My Guide Network Since 2006 180+ destinations

Experience the magic of St Petersburg during the summer White Nights, when the city is bathed in an ethereal glow from late May to mid-July. This phenomenon occurs due to the city's high latitude, with the sun not fully setting and creating a unique atmosphere that is perfect for exploring. From iconic landmarks to cultural events, there is so much to see and do during this special time in St Petersburg.

1. Visit the Hermitage Museum

Explore one of the largest and oldest museums in the world, housing a vast collection of art and artifacts spanning over three million items.

Visit-the-Hermitage-Museum

2. Take a Boat Tour on the Neva River

See the city from a different perspective as you cruise along the iconic Neva River, passing by famous landmarks like the Winter Palace and Peter and Paul Fortress.

Take-a-Boat-Tour-on-the-Neva-River

3. Watch a Ballet at the Mariinsky Theatre

Experience the magic of Russian ballet at the historic Mariinsky Theatre, known for its world-class performances and stunning architecture.

Watch-a-Ballet-at-the-Mariinsky-Theatre

4. Stroll along Nevsky Prospect

Take a leisurely walk down St Petersburg's main avenue, lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

Stroll-along-Nevsky-Prospect

5. Visit Peterhof Palace and Gardens

Explore the lavish palace and stunning gardens of Peterhof, often referred to as the 'Russian Versailles' for its grandeur and beauty.

Visit-Peterhof-Palace-and-Gardens

6. Attend the Scarlet Sails Festival

Join the festivities of the annual Scarlet Sails celebration, featuring a spectacular fireworks show and a grand ship with scarlet sails sailing along the Neva River.

Attend-the-Scarlet-Sails-Festival

7. Explore the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood

Marvel at the intricate mosaics and Russian architectural style of this iconic church, built on the site where Tsar Alexander II was assassinated.

Explore-the-Church-of-the-Savior-on-Spilled-Blood

8. Take a Day Trip to Pushkin

Discover the charming town of Pushkin, home to the magnificent Catherine Palace and its famous Amber Room, a must-see attraction near St Petersburg.

Take-a-Day-Trip-to-Pushkin

9. Enjoy a Russian Tea Ceremony

Immerse yourself in Russian culture with a traditional tea ceremony, complete with samovar, sweets, and traditional pastries like blini and pirozhki.

Enjoy-a-Russian-Tea-Ceremony

10. Visit the Peter and Paul Fortress

Explore the historic fortress and cathedral, the burial place of many Russian tsars, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the ramparts.

Visit-the-Peter-and-Paul-Fortress

By Blythe Pepper

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