St. Petersburg Canals: Exploring the Venice of the North

Venice of the North

Today, we get to experience St Petersburg from its beautiful canals. Founded by Peter the Great in 1703, the city was his ambitious attempt to create a new European-style capital. He wanted Russia to have a modern gateway to the West, with access to the Baltic Sea.… Read the rest

A Taste Of St. Petersburg

A taste of old Russia at Eliseyev Emporium

After a full day exploring Peterhof and the Catherine Palace at Pushkin, I’m ready to discover St Petersburg itself. We’ve seen the imperial splendour beyond the city, and now it’s time to explore its historic heart.… Read the rest

Catherine Palace

Catherine Palace

As the second wife of Peter the Great, Catherine I, Empress of Russia, came to the throne by chance.  She was orphaned at an early aged and spent her youth as a maid. Nevertheless, they met soon after Peter moved the capital to St.… Read the rest

Peterhof

The magnificent fountains and facade of Peterhof

Our destination is Peterhof. After a drive through the city, however, the metro is our first introduction to St.  Petersburg. From the very beginning, Narvskaya metro it is unlike any other metro station.  This station is bustling with commuters as we push our tokens into the machine to pass through the gates.… Read the rest