Peterhof Palace, often referred to as the “Russian Versailles,” is one of Saint Petersburg’s most iconic landmarks, known for its grand architecture, stunning gardens, and intricate fountains. Located about 29 kilometers (18 miles) outside the city, getting to Peterhof is relatively easy and affordable using Saint Petersburg’s public transport system. Whether you prefer buses, ferries, or trains, there are several convenient ways to reach the palace. This guide will help you plan your trip to Peterhof Palace using public transport.
1. By Bus from Saint Petersburg to Peterhof Palace
Taking the bus is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to get to Peterhof from Saint Petersburg. Several buses provide direct routes to the palace, offering a comfortable and budget-friendly option.
Bus Options:
- Route 200: This is one of the most popular bus routes to Peterhof Palace. It connects Avtovo Metro Station (Blue Line, Line 2) in Saint Petersburg with Peterhof.
- Route 300: This route also connects Saint Petersburg to Peterhof Palace, departing from the Vitebsky Railway Station.
How to Get There:
- From Avtovo Metro Station (Line 2, Blue Line):
- Take Bus 200 from Avtovo Metro Station. The bus ride takes approximately 30-40 minutes depending on traffic.
- Bus Stop: The bus will drop you off at the Peterhof bus stop, which is located near the Peterhof Palace entrance. From the bus stop, it’s a short walk to the Palace and Gardens.
- From Vitebsky Railway Station:
- Take Bus 300, which also connects to Peterhof Palace and stops directly near the palace entrance.
Insider Tip:
- Bus 200 is the most commonly used route by tourists, and it’s a reliable option for reaching Peterhof Palace. Make sure to check the bus timetable in advance, as buses may not run as frequently during the evening.
2. By Train and Bus to Peterhof Palace
If you prefer a faster route, taking the train to St. Petersburg’s suburban stations and then connecting to a bus can be a great option.
Train and Bus Combo:
- From Moskovsky Railway Station:
- Take the train from Moskovsky Railway Station (the main station in Saint Petersburg) to Leninsky Prospect Station.
- From there, transfer to Bus 200 or Bus 300 at the nearby bus stop, which will take you directly to Peterhof Palace. The total journey from Moskovsky Station to Peterhof Palace takes about 45 minutes.
- From Vitebsky Railway Station:
- If you’re closer to Vitebsky Railway Station, take a train towards Petergof Station. From there, you can catch a bus or walk to the entrance of Peterhof Palace.
Insider Tip:
Taking the train and bus combo is a great option for those who prefer a faster route. It can also be a more scenic journey as you pass through suburban areas before reaching the palace.
3. By Ferry to Peterhof Palace
For a unique and scenic route, taking a ferry from Saint Petersburg to Peterhof is a memorable way to reach the palace.
How to Get There:
- From the City Center:
- You can board a hydrofoil ferry from the Neva River (near Palace Square or the Peter and Paul Fortress). The ferry ride offers stunning views of the Neva River and Saint Petersburg’s waterfront.
- The ferry ride typically takes 30-40 minutes, and it will drop you off at the Peterhof pier, from which you can easily walk to the palace entrance.
Insider Tip:
- Hydrofoils operate during the summer months (May to October). If you are visiting Peterhof Palace during these months, the ferry is a scenic and relaxing way to get to the palace, offering views of the river and surrounding areas.
4. By Taxi or Ride-Sharing
For a more comfortable and direct route, especially if you are traveling with luggage or in a group, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service like Yandex.Taxi or Uber.
How to Get There:
- Simply request a ride through Yandex.Taxi or Uber to take you directly from your hotel or metro station in Saint Petersburg to Peterhof Palace. The ride typically takes 30-40 minutes depending on traffic and will cost you around 600-1000 rubles.
Insider Tip:
Taking a ride-sharing service is ideal if you want door-to-door service and convenience, especially if you’re traveling with family or a group.
5. Important Tips for Visiting Peterhof Palace
- Opening Hours: Peterhof Palace is open to visitors year-round, but the fountains (one of its main attractions) are only operational during the summer months (May to September). Check the opening times for fountain season to plan your visit accordingly.
- Ticket Purchase: You can buy tickets online or at the entrance. If you’re visiting during the busy tourist season, it’s advisable to buy tickets in advance to avoid long queues.
- Walking Around: The gardens and grounds surrounding Peterhof Palace are vast, so be prepared for a lot of walking. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water for a more pleasant experience.
- Audio Guides: To enhance your visit, consider renting an audio guide or downloading the Peterhof app, which offers an interactive map and details about the palace’s history.
Insider Tip:
If you prefer a more guided experience, consider joining a tour group. Many tours combine transportation and entrance fees, providing an informative and hassle-free way to explore Peterhof.
Conclusion
Visiting Peterhof Palace is an unforgettable experience, and Saint Petersburg’s public transport offers several options to get there affordably and conveniently. Whether you choose to take a bus, train, ferry, or taxi, each route has its benefits depending on your preferences and schedule. The bus routes (such as Bus 200 from Avtovo Metro Station) are the most commonly used and direct options for tourists, while the ferry offers a scenic journey during the summer. Whichever option you choose, be sure to enjoy the stunning gardens and fountains at Peterhof Palace, and take your time to explore this beautiful UNESCO World Heritage site.
