This Canals and Bridges Walking Itinerary, Saint Petersburg, follows the waterways that give the centre its character. It crosses the Moika, the Griboyedov Canal and the Fontanka on the way to the Neva, with a church, a famous bridge and a drawbridge on the route.
The pace is relaxed, about three to four hours with breaks, and the ground is flat. By the end you will have seen how the canals and the river divide the centre and which bridges are worth a second look.
At a glance: Start on the Moika near Palace Square, follow the Griboyedov Canal to the Church on Blood, cross the Fontanka at Anichkov Bridge and finish at the Neva by Palace Bridge.
Walk: From the Moika to the Neva
A loop of about four kilometres. The first half follows canal embankments with little traffic. The second half crosses Nevsky Prospekt twice and ends on the river, where the light is best late in the day.
- Palace Square, Saint Petersburg – Start by the Alexander Column and walk to the Moika (20 minutes)
- Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, Saint Petersburg – Follow the Griboyedov Canal to the colourful church (45 minutes)
- Summer Garden, Saint Petersburg – Walk along the Moika and the Fontanka side of the garden; check opening days (45 minutes)
- Anichkov Bridge Pier, Saint Petersburg – Cross the Fontanka and look at the horse sculptures on the bridge (20 minutes)
- Palace Bridge, Saint Petersburg – End on the Neva embankment; see How to Watch the Drawbridges Open, Saint Petersburg (30 minutes)
Tip: Read the canal names off the embankment signs; the Moika and Griboyedov Canal look alike and are easy to mix up.
Russia Vibes Tips
- Walk the canal embankments rather than the parallel streets; they are quieter and give the best views of the bridges.
- Look for the sculptures on Anichkov Bridge: four horse groups, one at each corner.
- In the navigation season, finish at the river for the drawbridges; see Best Bridges and Drawbridge Viewing Spots, Saint Petersburg.
- Bring a rain layer; canal embankments have little shelter.
- A short boat trip is the easiest way to see the same canals from below. See How to Take a Neva River and Canal Cruise, Saint Petersburg.
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FAQ
How long is the walk?
About four kilometres, flat. Allow three to four hours with stops.
Which canals does it cross?
The Moika, the Griboyedov Canal and the Fontanka, then the Neva.
Can I do it by boat instead?
Yes, a canal cruise covers the same waterways in season.
When do the drawbridges open?
At night in the navigation season. See How to Watch the Drawbridges Open, Saint Petersburg.
Is the route suitable with a stroller?
Yes, though some bridges have steps; check your route on a map.
Where can I get a drink?
Cafes are easy to find near Nevsky Prospekt. See Best Restaurants, Saint Petersburg.
Is it good in winter?
Yes, but the days are short and the embankments are cold.
What if I want a longer walk?
See the Nevsky Prospekt Walking Itinerary, Saint Petersburg.
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Last updated: October 17, 2026.
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