For travelers seeking the best of Russia, the draw of St Petersburg is undeniable. Whether it’s taking in the iconic skyline the city, indulging in timeless art of Hermitage or exploring Russia’s most iconic destinations – the legendary Valaam and the remarkable Kizhi – there are so many reasons to visit St Petersburg in 2024! With over 300 museums, 70 theater and 600 bridges – you will find your fun activities in St Petersburg.
City Day Celebration in St Petersburg 2024 (May 27-28)
Get ready to be swept away by the magic of St. Petersburg’s Annual Open-Air Gala Concert on Palace Square – a grand celebration of classical music and entertainment featuring a star-studded cast. And the best part? You can enjoy this breathtaking performance absolutely free in designated areas!
But the festivities don’t stop there! Brace yourself for the Petrovsky Fire Festival’s vibrant show, a mesmerizing 5-hour extravaganza illuminating the Neva River in honor of the city’s 321st birthday.
Escape the crowds and embrace the ultimate viewing experience by securing a spot aboard a ship, where you’ll witness the most spectacular fireworks and dazzling light displays in all their glory.
Journey by boat – explore two of Russia’s most iconic destinations – the legendary Valaam and the remarkable Kizhi
Get ready to experience the ultimate boating adventure as you set sail from St. Petersburg, embarking on a voyage that will take you through the heart of Russia’s stunning natural and cultural treasures.
Marvel at the majestic Neva River as it winds its way through the city, before being swept away by the vast expanse of the inspiring Lake Ladoga – the largest lake in Europe, stretching an incredible 17,700 square kilometers. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to explore two of Russia’s most iconic destinations – the legendary Valaam and the remarkable Kizhi. This route offers a unique perspective on Russia’s evolving landscape, juxtaposing contemporary urban life against timeless architectural wonders.
What a romantic way to visit St Petersburg in 2024!
St Petersburg’s skyline at two breathtaking observation decks
First up, towering at an impressive 43 meters (141 feet), this panoramic marvel offers a bird’s-eye view that encompasses all of the city’s most iconic landmarks, from the historic Kunstkamera and Admiralty buildings to the regal Winter Palace and the legendary Peter and Paul Fortress – all must-see places when you visit St Petersburg.
Ascend to new heights at the F11 Sky Bar and Restaurant, perched on the 18th floor of the luxurious Azimut Hotel. Immerse yourself in a 360-degree panorama that stretches as far as the eye can see, taking in the magnificent domes of St. Isaac’s and Trinity-Izmailovsky Cathedrals, the winding rivers and canals, and the vibrant tapestry of streets and avenues that make up this cultural capital.
Hermitage 2024: artistic revelations – classy reason to visit St Petersburg in 2024
The Hermitage Museum welcomes guests year-round, offering intriguing exhibitions in 2024. Discover “New Mysteries of Leonardo da Vinci’s Paintings,” showcasing “Madonna of the Rocks” and “The Battle of Anghiari,” alongside “The Angel,” once attributed to da Vinci, from February 21 to May 19. Experience the total installation “Monument to a Disappeared Civilization” by Ilya and Emilia Kabakov, a tribute to the Soviet era, from May 29, 2024, to June 1, 2025. Delve into “Wedding Ceremonies in Russia in the 19th and Early 20th Centuries,” exploring nuptial traditions and attire from June 15, 2024, to May 11, 2025.
Erarta’s exhibition 2024
Erarta Museum of Contemporary Art unveils its highly anticipated exhibition, showcasing the groundbreaking works of 40 visionary artists vying for the prestigious Erarta Prize 2024. From February 9th to June 9th, this one-of-a-kind event will captivate your senses with a mesmerizing display of paintings, graphics, sculptures, photographs, installations, and other cutting-edge contemporary art forms.
But what truly sets this exhibition apart is the power it places in your hands. As the only art award where the audience takes on the role of the jury, you’ll have the unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant works and cast your vote, shaping the future of the contemporary art world.
Sky-high melodies: experience Roof Fest in St Petersburg 2024
From May to September, Roof Fest in St Petersburg turns the rooftop of a former leather factory on Vasilievsky Island into the ultimate open-air concert venue. In 2024, this cultural hotspot offers live performances of global hits and renowned Russian musicians. Equipped with a modern stage and a bar, the venue is prepared for almost any weather, providing a unique blend of music, culture, and breathtaking views under the open sky.
White Nights – main reason to visit St Petersburg in 2024
In 2024, Saint Petersburg’s White Nights offer a unique experience as the city continually evolves, unveiling an array of splendid venues open all night. This year, witness a different hue of White Nights, where modern Saint Petersburg can be admired from the water, alongside new establishments ready to welcome visitors at any hour. Amidst this rare natural phenomenon lasting about 1.5 months, the city bursts with festivals and celebrations, revealing its secrets under the enchanting light of seemingly endless days.
The total length of white nights is about than 50 days finishing on July 16-17. The maximum duration of the day falls on June 21-22 (18 hr. 53 min.). More unique fun facts about St Petersburg.
Mariinsky Theatre performances in 2024
The “Stars of the White Nights” is the 32nd International Music Festival, Saint Petersburg’s premier summer musical event starting in late May. Since 1993, initiated by the Mariinsky Theatre‘s artistic director Valery Gergiev, it spans the first two summer months, featuring the season’s best performances. The 27th festival will delight you with opera and ballet premieres, symphonic concerts, chamber evenings, and solo performances by renowned artists from the Mariinsky stage and guest stars.
Biblio-night in St Petersburg 2024
In May 2024, Russia’s Biblio-night will celebrate its 13th year, keeping over 80 libraries in St Petersburg open late into the night. This annual event transforms libraries into vibrant cultural hubs, hosting quests, concerts, literary readings, workshops, book fairs, and author meet-and-greets. Biblio-night offers a unique opportunity for readers and culture enthusiasts to explore the literary world in a festive, nocturnal setting.
Scarlet Sails, a stunning nautical show in St Petersburg 2024 – must-see when visit St Petersburg in 2024
St Petersburg’s graduation celebration, known as “Scarlet Sails,” is truly unforgettable, featuring a fireworks display and a concert that culminates with a magnificent sailboat gliding down the Neva River under crimson sails. The event peaks with a breathtaking musical fireworks show illuminating the sky. For those not graduating or without invites to the Palace Embankment, a prime viewing spot is from a boat on the Neva River, below the Liteyny Bridge, offering a close-up view within the permitted distance.
The holiday will take place on the night of June 22-23.
Russia’s maritime heritage at Central Naval Museum 2024
In 2024, visiting the Central Naval Museum, a testament to Russia’s naval heritage and one of the world’s largest maritime museums, becomes even more special. This year, Saint Petersburg’s residents, known for their deep respect for history, celebrate over 100 years of the cruiser “Aurora” in pristine condition. The museum now features holographic copies of ship models, alongside its extensive collection of 700,000 artifacts and 2,000 ship models, making it a pivotal year to explore the intertwining of tradition and cutting-edge technology.
Revitalized New Holland Island in St Petersburg 2024
New Holland Island in Saint Petersburg masterfully blends historical architecture with bold design, street art, and ingenious adaptations of former industrial spaces into bars, exhibition halls, and concert venues. It hosts art exhibitions, computer graphics and sound engineering workshops for kids, and features diverse dining options from Mexican to Georgian cuisine.
In 2024, there will be a lot of interesting events happening here: you can take part in a chess tournament, see amazing art installations or visit an exhibition.
Here are more unusual museums in St Petersburg.
St Petersburg International Economic Forum – insights into global economic trends
The St Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), one of the world’s most prominent and vast business events, marks its 27th year in 2024, from June 5th to 8th. Over 27 years, SPIEF has become a leading global venue for discussing key global economic issues and sharing best practices to promote sustainable development. Held annually since 1997 and under the patronage of the President of the Russian Federation since 2006, SPIEF continues to draw global attention to economic debates and solutions.
Vibrant atmosphere and delicacies of the Chief Festival in St Petersburg 2024
Every Friday from March 22nd to April 26th, Sevkabel Port in Saint Petersburg hosts the Chief Festival in collaboration with the “Children in the Kitchen” project. Port chefs will lead culinary masterclasses, sharing their signature recipes and insights into the workings of a large kitchen. This event combines culinary arts and family-friendly fun, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
Powerful performances at the Diaghilev P.S. International Festival of Arts
The 15th season of the Dyagilev. P.S. festival will light up Saint Petersburg’s autumn starting in November, celebrating the legacy of the iconic impresario Sergei Diaghilev. Since its first edition in 2009, marking the centenary of the “Russian Seasons,” the festival has continually presented bold experiments and new ideas.
It features unique programs dedicated to legendary dancers and choreographers, performances by famous ballet companies, premieres by contemporary dance masters, extensive exhibition projects, film screenings, and concerts by renowned musicians, alongside open lectures, roundtable discussions, and conferences exploring Diaghilev’s creative heritage.
The Fabergé Museum in St Petersburg
The Fabergé Museum‘s collection is renowned for containing the world’s largest collection of Carl Fabergé masterpieces, highlighted by nine Easter eggs created for the last two Russian emperors. These eggs, masterpieces of jewelry art and unique historical artifacts, reflect the reigns and personal lives of Alexander III and Nicholas II. Today, the museum boasts over 4,000 items, including fantasy objects, jewelry, silverware, interior and religious items, showcasing the diverse craftsmanship of the Fabergé firm.
Until July 14 the Faberge Museum is hosting the exhibition “The Beauty of Holiness and the Holiness of Beauty,” dedicated to Russian icons in precious frames of the 18th – early 20th centuries from the collections of the Karisalov family and the Faberge Museum. The exhibition features more than 300 icons in jewelry settings, made in the workshops of famous jewelers.
Legendary Roof Tours with unique city views – most instagrammable reason to visit St Petersburg in 2024
In 2024, Saint Petersburg’s distinction as the rooftop capital of the world is not just about its historic skyline and stunning views; it’s about experiencing the city’s evolution. This year is particularly special because it showcases a unique blend of architectural heritage and modern development from unparalleled vantage points. Rooftop tours in 2024 offer an adventurous way to witness Saint Petersburg’s continuous transformation, making it an essential year to explore the city from above and see its progress firsthand.
Newly accessible areas of the Peter and Paul Fortress
The Peter and Paul Fortress, originally serving as a defensive fortification, was meticulously designed to allow troops to move secretly within and beyond its walls. These hidden passages remained a secret to the general public long after the fortress became a museum. The mystery was partially unveiled during the city’s 300th anniversary when the “Secret Passage” was opened for tours. This spot remains relatively quiet, inviting whispers among its few visitors.
Kronstadt district in St Petersburg
Tired of the imperial city center? Explore the other side of Saint Petersburg by venturing into the Gulf of Finland’s waters, home to numerous ancient and picturesque lighthouses. Don’t miss visiting Kronstadt, a city of sailors and one of Saint Petersburg’s most fascinating districts, located on Kotlin Island in the Gulf of Finland. Currently, Kronstadt looks even more attractive and modern. It is very interesting to see how historical preservation projects are being implemented in 2024.
Dostoevsky Day in St Petersburg
Arriving in early July? You’ll witness the unique Dostoevsky Day held on the first Saturday of the month. Experience the magic of Russian literature come to life with characters roaming the streets, films, and plays dedicated to Fyodor Dostoevsky’s work. Plus, you can explore the iconic places connected to the legendary writer’s life, immersing yourself in a cultural journey through his legacy.
Nature’s wonders at the Peter the Great Botanical Garden
Step into the Peter the Great Botanical Garden in Saint Petersburg, a genuine oasis of nature and culture right in the city’s heart, established in 1714. It stands as one of Russia’s oldest botanical gardens. A visit here offers an enchanting journey through the diversity of the plant kingdom, with a collection that exceeds 9,000 plant species, including rare and exotic specimens from around the globe.
In 2024, there are also two tours of the tropical and subtropical greenhouses.
St Petersburg’s Nightlife
Where do locals enjoy their Saturday nights in 2024? The answer often lies in Rubinstein Street or within the “Bar Triangle.” This area is renowned for hosting the city’s top bars, including Bakalavriat, Blue Pushkin, Chronicles, and Zaliv, among others. With such an abundance of choices, it might be overwhelming to decide. Fear not, for guided bar tours and gastronomic journeys along Rubinstein Street are offered, showcasing the city’s vibrant nightlife and culinary scene.
National Heritage at Lopukhin-Naryshkin Mansion in St Petersburg
The Lopukhin-Naryshkin Mansion has been transformed into a vibrant public space, blending restoration with modern culture. This venue now hosts creative entrepreneurs and introduces people of all ages to contemporary art. Known as Third Place, it features artworks by emerging artists and organizes activities for children, lectures, film screenings, and theater productions. In summer, its courtyard comes alive with music, public events, and food and drink corners, making it a hub for community and creativity in Saint Petersburg.
DreamFest 2024 in St Petersburg at Yusupov Garden
Saint Petersburg invites you to the enchanting DreamFest, set in the picturesque Yusupov Garden from May 3-5. Dive into a world where history meets fantasy, featuring a 19th-century ball, mesmerizing fireworks, and an array of musical delights from symphonic rock to soulful piano performances. Engage in creative workshops, savor delicious food, and explore a cosmic zone with celestial spectacles. This festival embodies the city’s spirit of innovation and tradition, making it a must-visit for dreamers and adventurers alike.
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