It was in 1990, the year before Leningrad regained its rightful name of St Petersburg, that Unesco named the city’s historic centre as a World Heritage Site. The listing was based on its architectural heritage — a fusing of Baroque, Neo-Classical and Russian influences. For the visitor, it is the combination of heritage, Western influence, culture and canals that makes St Petersburg a city break destination like no other on Earth.
The city was founded in 1703 by Peter the Great. The Russian Tsar’s first piece of genius was deciding that this swampy backwater on the Baltic coast could rise up into a great city. His second was choosing the Italian architect Domenico Trezzini and the French landscape designer Jean- Baptiste-Alexandre le Blond to create the canal grid layout and imperial buildings that give the city its majestic European feel.
St Petersburg is known as a city of ideas, famed for its composers, writers artists and bohemian nightlife. A visit should start with a tour of its most famous icons — a canal trip, passing around 40 islands and under the 365 city bridges, might be a good start.
Closer inspections of the Peter and Paul Fortress, the Bronze Horseman, the Hermitage Museum and its art collection, Palace Square, St Isaac’s Cathedral and Peterhof’s palaces and parks will have you dazzled by their combination of history and beauty. This is a city of breathtaking contradictions and one that has to be seen to be believed. Book now for the ultimate city break and prepare to be amazed.
Need to know
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Currency Rouble (48 to £1)
Population 4,600,000
Area 1,439 sq km. The city lies on the Baltic almost 400 miles from Moscow. It is the most northern city in the world with a population of more than one million
Top attractions The State Hermitage Museum, which includes the Winter Palace, the former state residence of the Russian emperors, hosts the largest art collection in the world
The bridges A city built on more than 100 islands, St Petersburg is home to an impressive bridge or two. A tour can take in some ornate architecture at Lomonosov Bridge, with its pavilions, or the guardian griffins of Bank Bridge
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Short breaks An elegant city at the best of times, St Petersburg shines in an icy winter setting
Offer Three nights, 3* B&B, includes one free night, from £395pp. Phone 0844 879 8036