Saint Petersburg, known for its imperial history and grand architecture, is also home to some of the most beautiful and meticulously designed gardens and parks in the world. These royal gardens and green spaces offer a tranquil escape from the bustling city streets, with their lush landscapes, ornate fountains, and historic charm. Whether you’re an avid nature lover or someone looking to experience the peaceful side of the city, Saint Petersburg’s royal parks are the perfect places to explore. Here’s a guide to the most stunning royal gardens and parks in the city.
1. Peterhof Palace and Gardens
Often referred to as the “Russian Versailles,” Peterhof Palace and its gardens are among the most famous royal parks in Saint Petersburg. Located on the Gulf of Finland, Peterhof was created by Peter the Great to rival the grand palaces of Europe, and it certainly lives up to its name with its stunning gardens, fountains, and manicured landscapes.
Highlights:
- Grand Cascade: The most iconic feature of the Peterhof Gardens is the Grand Cascade, a series of spectacular fountains and waterfalls leading down to the sea. The centerpiece is the golden statue of Samson fighting a lion, symbolizing Russia’s triumph over Sweden.
- Lower Park: The Lower Park is vast and lush, featuring intricate flower beds, tree-lined avenues, and numerous smaller fountains, including the famous “Chessboard” fountain.
- Upper Gardens: The Upper Gardens are more formal, with geometric patterns and beautifully maintained flowerbeds, perfect for strolling and admiring the park’s design.
- Monplaisir Palace: The smaller Monplaisir Palace, located within the park, is the first building constructed by Peter the Great, and its quaint charm adds to the beauty of the gardens.
Why It’s Great:
Peterhof offers a blend of history, grandeur, and natural beauty. The meticulously designed gardens, impressive fountains, and serene lakes create a captivating setting for anyone looking to experience the epitome of Russian royal landscaping.
2. Catherine Palace and Park, Tsarskoye Selo
Located in the town of Tsarskoye Selo, just outside Saint Petersburg, the Catherine Palace and its surrounding park are another example of the opulence and beauty of the Russian imperial era. This stunning site combines both natural beauty and architectural magnificence.
Highlights:
- Catherine Park: The park around the Catherine Palace is vast and beautifully landscaped with a mix of formal gardens, winding pathways, and serene lakes. The park also features many beautiful pavilions, including the Grotto Pavilion, which is tucked away in the woods and offers a peaceful retreat.
- The Cameron Gallery: This elegant gallery, located on the shores of a small lake, provides stunning views of the surrounding parkland. The structure blends perfectly into the natural surroundings and adds to the park’s charm.
- The Chinese Village: A whimsical and unique feature of Catherine Park is the Chinese Village, a collection of ornamental buildings influenced by Chinese architecture, adding an exotic flair to the garden.
Why It’s Great:
Catherine Park offers a more intimate royal garden experience compared to the grandeur of Peterhof. The park’s peaceful atmosphere, combined with its beautiful lakes, pavilions, and wooded areas, makes it a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll in nature.
3. The Summer Garden (Letny Sad)
The Summer Garden, one of the oldest parks in Saint Petersburg, was originally laid out by Peter the Great in the early 18th century. Located near the Neva River, it is a formal garden that is a perfect example of Russian Baroque landscaping.
Highlights:
- Baroque Symmetry: The Summer Garden is known for its perfect symmetry, with well-maintained paths, neatly clipped hedges, and carefully placed fountains and statues. The garden’s design reflects the classical influences of Peter the Great’s time.
- Marble Statues: The park is dotted with over 90 marble statues, representing gods, goddesses, and mythological figures, which add elegance to the garden’s classical atmosphere.
- Fontains: The fountains in the Summer Garden, while simpler than those at Peterhof, still add a tranquil sound to the atmosphere, enhancing the park’s peaceful nature.
- The Summer Garden Pavilion: The small pavilion at the far end of the park offers a peaceful spot to relax while overlooking the park’s serene landscape.
Why It’s Great:
The Summer Garden is a beautifully peaceful spot in the heart of the city. Its classical design, elegant statues, and calm atmosphere provide a relaxing escape from the urban hustle while showcasing Saint Petersburg’s historical and artistic heritage.
4. Katarina Park
Katarina Park, located in the town of Pushkin near Tsarskoye Selo, is another royal park that features a blend of architectural beauty and natural tranquility. The park is smaller compared to Peterhof or Catherine Park but still holds plenty of charm.
Highlights:
- The White Tower: Katarina Park features the picturesque White Tower, a classical building offering a wonderful view of the surrounding park. The tower and its surrounding gardens make for a perfect photograph.
- The Bell Tower: A smaller but beautiful structure, the Bell Tower adds to the park’s serene ambiance, surrounded by open lawns and trees.
- Lakes and Bridges: The park is dotted with tranquil lakes, with small bridges that allow visitors to cross over the waters and explore the quiet corners of the park.
Why It’s Great:
Katarina Park is a hidden gem in Saint Petersburg’s royal garden scene. Its smaller scale and serene atmosphere make it a lovely spot to relax, walk, and enjoy nature, away from the crowds of more famous parks.
5. Kronshtadt and the Park of the Peter and Paul Cathedral
Kronshtadt, located on Kotlin Island in the Gulf of Finland, offers an intriguing mix of nature and history. The park surrounding the Peter and Paul Cathedral in Kronshtadt provides a perfect blend of green spaces and historic sites, making it a great location for nature lovers.
Highlights:
- Peter and Paul Cathedral: The impressive cathedral surrounded by its park creates a majestic contrast with the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
- Coastal Views: The park offers stunning views of the Gulf of Finland, perfect for capturing scenic photographs of the coastline and harbor.
- Historical Significance: The park is not only an escape into nature but also holds historical significance, as Kronshtadt was a vital military base during Imperial Russia and the Soviet Union.
Why It’s Great:
Kronshtadt offers the perfect combination of natural beauty and historical intrigue. The park’s coastal views, combined with the peaceful atmosphere and rich history, make it an excellent destination for anyone seeking a quiet retreat surrounded by nature.
6. Yelagin Island
Yelagin Island is one of the most tranquil spots in Saint Petersburg, known for its vast park and beautiful green spaces. Located near the city center, Yelagin Island is an oasis of calm where visitors can enjoy nature without leaving the city.
Highlights:
- Yelagin Park: The park features expansive lawns, tree-lined avenues, and a variety of walking paths that make it perfect for leisurely walks or bike rides.
- The Yelagin Palace: The beautiful Yelagin Palace, located on the island, is surrounded by picturesque gardens and provides a stunning backdrop for photos.
- Botanical Garden: The island also features a small botanical garden with a variety of plants, flowers, and trees, adding to the island’s charm.
Why It’s Great:
Yelagin Island offers a relaxing and scenic escape from the busy streets of Saint Petersburg. Its well-maintained parks and gardens, combined with its historical architecture, make it one of the most peaceful natural spaces in the city.
7. Vasileostrovskaya Island and its Historical Parks
Vasileostrovskaya Island is a quieter part of Saint Petersburg, and while it is known for its historic architecture, it also offers some lovely parks and gardens. The island features a mix of green spaces that are perfect for an afternoon stroll.
Highlights:
- Saint Andrew’s Cathedral Park: This small but charming park surrounds the Saint Andrew’s Cathedral and offers a peaceful space with lush trees and open lawns.
- Rostral Columns Park: The area around the Rostral Columns, on the island’s waterfront, provides lovely views of the Neva River and the surrounding city, ideal for photography.
- Petrovsky Park: A relaxing park with calm paths, perfect for unwinding or enjoying a walk through the island’s greenery.
Why It’s Great:
Vasileostrovskaya Island offers an off-the-beaten-path park experience, ideal for those who enjoy quieter, more intimate green spaces with great views and less foot traffic.
Conclusion
Saint Petersburg’s royal gardens and parks offer an escape into nature, showcasing both the city’s rich history and its natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the grandeur of Peterhof, relaxing in the tranquil spaces of Yelagin Island, or strolling through the classical designs of the Summer Garden, these royal parks provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation, exploration, and photography. Each park offers a unique experience, from grand imperial landscapes to peaceful forested areas, making them a must-see for anyone visiting this historic city.