Saint Petersburg is a city known for its stunning architecture, cultural landmarks, and rich history. However, beyond the grand palaces and historic buildings, the city is also home to beautiful parks and gardens, offering peaceful escapes from the bustle of city life. Whether you’re seeking a stroll through expansive imperial parks, an afternoon picnic, or a quiet place to relax, Saint Petersburg’s public transport system makes it easy to explore these green spaces. Here’s how to use public transport to explore some of the city’s best parks and gardens.
1. Catherine Palace and Park (Pushkin)
Why It’s Worth Visiting:
The Catherine Palace and Park in Pushkin (formerly Tsarskoye Selo) is one of the most spectacular historical sites in Saint Petersburg. The Catherine Palace is famous for its Amber Room, intricate gardens, and impressive Baroque architecture. The expansive park surrounding the palace is perfect for a leisurely walk, with its beautiful trees, ponds, and classical sculptures.
How to Get There Using Public Transport:
- Metro: Take the Red Line (Line 1) to Moskovskaya Station.
- Bus: From Moskovskaya Metro Station, take Bus Route 287 or Route 545 to Pushkin, where the Catherine Palace and Park are located. The journey takes about 30 minutes from the station.
Tips:
- Purchase a Combination Ticket: If you’re visiting both the Catherine Palace and the park, a combination ticket will allow you to access both the palace and the surrounding gardens at a discounted price.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The park is large, so wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring.
2. Peterhof Palace and Gardens
Why It’s Worth Visiting:
The Peterhof Palace and its Grand Palace gardens are often referred to as the Russian Versailles. The palace is famous for its incredible fountains, especially the large Grand Cascade and Samson Fountain. The extensive parkland offers beautiful views of the Neva River, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
How to Get There Using Public Transport:
- Metro: Take the Blue Line (Line 2) to Avtovo Station.
- Bus: From Avtovo Station, you can take Bus Route 200 or Route 300 to Peterhof Palace. The bus ride takes about 40 minutes.
Tips:
- Explore the Lower Gardens: While at Peterhof, don’t miss the Lower Gardens, a beautiful section of the park with fountains and sculptures. It’s a great spot for a peaceful walk.
- Check Fountain Schedules: The fountains are turned on only during certain hours, so make sure to check the schedule to witness their full beauty.
3. Tauride Garden
Why It’s Worth Visiting:
Tauride Garden is a lovely urban park in the heart of Saint Petersburg, ideal for a relaxing day out. Located near Tauride Palace, it features a man-made lake, winding paths, and beautiful landscaping, making it a peaceful retreat in the middle of the city. This park is great for those who want to enjoy nature without venturing too far from central Saint Petersburg.
How to Get There Using Public Transport:
- Metro: Take the Blue Line (Line 2) to Chernyshevskaya Station.
- Bus: From Chernyshevskaya Station, take Bus Route 3 or Route 1 to Tauride Garden. The journey takes about 5-10 minutes from the metro station.
Tips:
- Explore the Surroundings: The park is next to Tauride Palace, so you can combine your visit with a look at the palace and its impressive architecture.
- Ideal for a Picnic: This park has plenty of open space for a picnic or a leisurely walk by the lake.
4. Moscow Park
Why It’s Worth Visiting:
Moscow Park is a large park that stretches along the Neva River. It’s an excellent place for families and those looking for a place to enjoy nature and relax. The park has a wide variety of walking paths, green spaces, and even playgrounds, making it ideal for both children and adults.
How to Get There Using Public Transport:
- Metro: Take the Red Line (Line 1) to Moskovskaya Station.
- Bus: From Moskovskaya Station, take Bus Route 22 or Route 45 to Moscow Park. The park is located a short distance from the bus stop, so it’s an easy walk.
Tips:
- Stay for the Sunset: The park offers great views of the Neva River, making it a perfect spot to stay for a sunset walk.
- Visit the Playgrounds: If you’re traveling with kids, the park’s playgrounds are great for letting them run around and enjoy the outdoors.
5. Summer Garden
Why It’s Worth Visiting:
The Summer Garden is one of the oldest parks in Saint Petersburg and is a classic example of Russian formal garden design. This beautifully manicured park is home to neoclassical sculptures, fountains, and meticulously landscaped greenery. It’s located near the Neva River and is the perfect place to enjoy the peace and quiet, especially during the summer months when the flowers are in full bloom.
How to Get There Using Public Transport:
- Metro: Take the Red Line (Line 1) to Nevsky Prospect Station, and then it’s about a 5-minute walk to the Summer Garden. The park is located near Palace Bridge and the Field of Mars.
Tips:
- Visit the Fountain: Don’t miss the beautiful fountain at the heart of the Summer Garden. It’s one of the most photographed spots in the park.
- Great for History Buffs: The Summer Garden is part of the Peter the Great’s summer residence, making it a historical landmark as well as a lovely green space.
6. Kirov Central Park
Why It’s Worth Visiting:
Kirov Central Park (also known as Central Park of Culture and Leisure) is one of the largest and most popular parks in Saint Petersburg. It offers a variety of recreational activities, including walking trails, lakes, and sports facilities. The park is particularly great for families and those interested in outdoor activities like cycling, paddle boating, and jogging.
How to Get There Using Public Transport:
- Metro: Take the Red Line (Line 1) to Avtovo Station, which is the closest metro station to Kirov Central Park.
- Bus: From Avtovo Station, you can take Bus Route 44 or Tram Route 13, which will bring you directly to the park.
Tips:
- Cycle or Rent a Boat: If you enjoy outdoor activities, consider renting a bike or a paddle boat to explore the park’s lake.
- Visit the Amusement Park: For family fun, there’s a small amusement park within the park where children can enjoy rides and games.
7. Yelagin Island and Yelagin Island Park
Why It’s Worth Visiting:
Yelagin Island is a beautiful green space located along the Neva River and is known for its nature reserves, manicured gardens, and the Yelagin Palace. The park is perfect for those who want to escape the city’s hustle and bustle while still staying close to the center.
How to Get There Using Public Transport:
- Metro: Take the Green Line (Line 3) to Krestovsky Island Station. From here, it’s about a 10-minute walk to Yelagin Island.
- Bus: Alternatively, take Bus Route 131 or Route 101 to Yelagin Island, which is directly accessible from the bus stop.
Tips:
- Explore Yelagin Palace: While on Yelagin Island, make sure to visit Yelagin Palace, a historic Russian Imperial residence. It’s located within the park and is an interesting blend of architecture and nature.
- Picnic by the Water: Enjoy the serenity of the park with a picnic by the Neva River, offering perfect views of the surrounding area.
Conclusion
Saint Petersburg’s parks and gardens are not only peaceful retreats but also key places for experiencing the city’s culture and beauty. With the city’s efficient and affordable public transport system, visiting these stunning green spaces is easy and convenient. Whether you’re traveling to Catherine Palace, Peterhof, or simply enjoying the local parks like Tauride Garden or Yelagin Island, public transport makes it possible to enjoy the best of Saint Petersburg’s natural beauty.