Saint Petersburg is a city steeped in history, with every street, canal, and monument telling a story of Russia’s imperial past. Known as the cultural capital of Russia, the city is brimming with historical landmarks, magnificent palaces, and fascinating tales of emperors, revolutionaries, and artists who have shaped its identity. One of the best ways to explore this rich history is through walking tours, where you can uncover the hidden stories behind the city’s most iconic sites. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking to gain a deeper understanding of Saint Petersburg, here are some of the best historical walking tours in the city.
1. The Imperial Saint Petersburg Tour
The Imperial Saint Petersburg Tour is a must-do for anyone interested in the history of the Russian Empire. This tour takes you through the grand palaces, monumental squares, and impressive architecture that once housed the tsars and their court. Along the way, you’ll learn about the rise of Peter the Great, the reigns of Catherine the Great, and the dramatic events of the Russian Revolution.
Key Highlights:
- The Winter Palace: As the former residence of Russian emperors, the Winter Palace is a must-see. It now houses the Hermitage Museum, which is among the world’s largest and most prestigious art collections.
- Palace Square: This iconic square is the heart of the city and hosts the Alexander Column, a symbol of the Russian Empire’s might.
- St. Isaac’s Cathedral: One of the largest cathedrals in the world, this magnificent building stands as a testament to Russia’s imperial grandeur.
- The Neva River Embankments: Enjoy a stroll along the river, where you’ll pass stunning views of the Peter and Paul Fortress, the first structure built in Saint Petersburg.
Tour Experience:
This guided tour will immerse you in the opulence of Russia’s imperial past, offering insights into the daily lives of the tsars, their court, and the grand events that shaped the history of the city. The tour is both educational and visually stunning, with many opportunities to photograph the stunning architecture and picturesque surroundings.
2. The Revolutionary Saint Petersburg Walking Tour
For those fascinated by Russia’s turbulent 20th century, the Revolutionary Saint Petersburg Walking Tour is an essential experience. This tour explores the events of the Russian Revolution of 1917, the rise of the Soviet Union, and the city’s transformation from a royal capital to the heart of the Communist regime. It’s perfect for history buffs interested in understanding the political shifts that changed the course of Russian history.
Key Highlights:
- The Field of Mars: This square has long been the site of political events, including protests, military parades, and public demonstrations. It is also home to the Eternal Flame, a tribute to Russia’s fallen soldiers.
- The Catherine Canal: Learn about the role of this canal in the October Revolution, as it became a focal point during revolutionary battles.
- The Peter and Paul Fortress: Visit the prison where many revolutionary leaders, including Lenin’s brother, were held before the Revolution.
- The Kirovsky Factory: This factory, one of the largest in Russia, was pivotal during the Bolshevik revolution and is associated with workers’ strikes and labor movements.
Tour Experience:
With passionate guides who bring the stories of revolutionaries to life, this walking tour provides an insightful look into the political upheavals that reshaped Saint Petersburg and Russia. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the locations where history was made, and see how the city transformed during one of the most significant periods in modern Russian history.
3. The Dostoevsky Walking Tour
Saint Petersburg is the birthplace of some of Russia’s greatest literary figures, and Fyodor Dostoevsky is one of the most iconic. The Dostoevsky Walking Tour is perfect for those who want to explore the city through the eyes of one of its most famous authors. Discover the locations that inspired his novels and learn about the personal experiences that influenced his writing.
Key Highlights:
- The Dostoevsky Museum: Located in the apartment where Dostoevsky lived, this museum offers insight into the life of the author and the turbulent times in which he lived.
- Vladimirskaya Square: This area features the Church of the Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God, a place where Dostoevsky visited regularly.
- The Nevsky Prospekt: Walk along the famous avenue, which figures prominently in many of Dostoevsky’s works, including “Crime and Punishment.” The street is filled with shops, cafes, and cultural landmarks that reflect the life of 19th-century Saint Petersburg.
- The Mariinsky Theatre: While not directly tied to Dostoevsky, the Mariinsky Theatre represents the cultural backdrop of Saint Petersburg during his time, and it offers an excellent opportunity to understand the broader artistic environment in which Dostoevsky worked.
Tour Experience:
Led by literary experts, this tour takes you to some of the most important locations in Dostoevsky’s life and work. It is perfect for those who appreciate Russian literature, offering an immersive experience that brings the author’s novels to life through the settings where they were inspired.
4. The Saint Petersburg Old Town Tour
For a deep dive into the history and architectural development of Saint Petersburg, the Old Town Tour offers a fascinating exploration of the city’s roots. This walking tour takes you through the oldest areas of the city, where you’ll learn about the foundations of Saint Petersburg, its creation by Peter the Great, and its subsequent growth into one of Europe’s most influential cities.
Key Highlights:
- The Peter and Paul Fortress: As the first structure built in Saint Petersburg, this fortress is integral to understanding the city’s founding and its military significance.
- The Nevsky Prospekt: Saint Petersburg’s central avenue, lined with architectural gems, including the Kazan Cathedral and the Anichkov Bridge.
- The Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood: One of the most iconic churches in Saint Petersburg, its rich mosaics and onion domes represent the city’s architectural splendor.
- The Smolny Cathedral: This stunning Baroque-style cathedral, with its striking blue-and-white exterior, is one of the most photogenic buildings in the city.
Tour Experience:
This walking tour provides a detailed history of Saint Petersburg’s founding and evolution. It’s ideal for those who want to learn about the architectural and historical significance of the city, with expert guides explaining how each landmark fits into the city’s overall development.
5. The Hidden Courtyards and Secret Spots Tour
While the grand palaces and famous landmarks dominate the main tourist routes, Saint Petersburg is also home to many hidden courtyards and secret spots that reveal the more intimate side of the city’s history. The Hidden Courtyards and Secret Spots Tour uncovers these lesser-known areas, offering a unique perspective on the city and its historical past.
Key Highlights:
- Hidden Courtyards: Saint Petersburg is home to many private courtyards that are hidden from view but offer a glimpse into the city’s 18th and 19th-century residential life. These courtyards are often overlooked by tourists, yet they are rich in history and atmosphere.
- Secret Gardens: Explore quiet gardens tucked behind palace walls or hidden in the corners of the city’s grand avenues. These serene spots provide a contrast to the busy tourist areas and offer peaceful moments in the heart of the city.
- Little-visited Churches: While the famous churches like St. Isaac’s and the Church on Spilled Blood draw large crowds, Saint Petersburg has many lesser-known churches with fascinating histories, often hidden in small alleys or behind courtyards.
Tour Experience:
This tour takes you off the beaten path, revealing Saint Petersburg’s hidden gems. It’s perfect for photographers, history lovers, or anyone seeking to discover the more secretive side of the city. With a focus on local stories and little-known facts, this tour offers a fresh perspective on the city’s rich heritage.
Conclusion
Saint Petersburg is a city filled with history, culture, and beauty. Whether you’re interested in imperial Russia, revolutionary history, or literary giants, there is a walking tour to suit your interests. Each of these tours offers a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the city’s past and see it from a new angle, all while exploring some of the most iconic and lesser-known sites in one of Russia’s most fascinating cities.
