The delights of St Petersburg

World-class shopping, awe-inspiring monuments and ultra-hip galleries are but a stone’s throw from Corinthia St Petersburg

Resplendent with stylish boutiques, charming cafés and gorgeous architecture, Nevsky Prospekt is St Petersburg’s main district, running right through the heart of the city. Located on this bustling avenue, Corinthia St Petersburg is perfectly positioned to explore the Russia’s second largest city on foot. With incredible sights and family-friendly activities right on our doorstep, here are some of the best things to do around Corinthia St Petersburg.

Spectacular sights

The gilded onion domes and intricate façade of the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood are synonymous with St Petersburg. Completed in the early 20th century, this unmistakably Russian landmark is the city’s most beloved edifice. An easy 20-minute walk from the hotel, take a scenic route via Mikhailovsky Garden. Closer by, Kazan Cathedral is a neoclassical wonder with its elegant columns and swooping curved colonnade. Just a moment’s walk from Kazan Cathedral, at the start of Nevsky Prospekt, is the elegant, powdery-pink Stroganov Palace. Admire the stunning river views on your way there.

The culture trail

Located in the beating heart of the city’s main Tsentralny District, Corinthia St Petersburg is surrounded by the historic theatres and cutting-edge galleries that Russia’s capital of culture is known for. Just around the corner, the Saint Petersburg Lensoviet Theatre occupies an imposing 19th century mansion and puts on contemporary and historic productions. Stroll a little further south to find a cool cluster of independent art spaces like Antonov Gallery and D137, both of which present edgy, avant-garde works. It’s worth the picturesque, 30-minute walk to the legendary Hermitage Museum, one of the world’s largest repositories of art, history and culture. Simply head west from the hotel along Nevsky Prospekt until you reach see its iconic green and gold exterior gleaming from Palace Square.

Prestigious emporiums

From glitzy boutiques to characterful stores, the city has retail opportunities in abundance, and all within walking distance from Corinthia St Petersburg. Just a stone’s throw around the corner on Vladimirskiy Prospekt, Caviar Russia is the country’s largest caviar store. Sample the premium delicacy and chase it with a neat vodka before selecting a souvenir tin for home. To shop the new season’s designer collections, head east along Nevsky Prospekt until you reach a chic throng of stores including Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Dior, and Comme des Garçons. Just over the Fontanka River to the west, Passage is a mesmerising 19th century arcade with architecture to rival the shopping. Topped off with a gleaming glass ceiling, the baroque mall presents high-end beauty, fine jewellery, Russian fashion and a fabulous gourmet deli. For day-to-day essentials, there’s a pharmacy and small convenience stores nearer the hotel.

Family-friendly activities

Discerning young explorers are spoilt for choice with St Petersburg’s many child-friendly itineraries. Offering a distinctly Russian experience, the Bolshoi Puppet Theatre can be found a 10-minute walk north of the hotel. Performing with an imaginative troupe of puppets and delightful sets, the 85-year old theatre puts on spellbinding shows for all ages. Seek out aquatic adventures at Oceanarium, located to the south near Pioneer Square park. A shimmering underwater world swimming with sharks, turtles and jellyfish, Oceanarium invites the whole family to marvel at the magic of the sea.