Saint Petersburg, with its stunning canals, picturesque parks, and imperial architecture, is a city best explored at a leisurely pace. What better way to experience its beauty than by bike? A bike tour offers the perfect blend of exploration and relaxation, allowing you to discover the city’s historic districts, serene waterfronts, and vibrant green spaces. Whether you’re a cycling enthusiast or simply someone who enjoys sightseeing on two wheels, Saint Petersburg’s scenic routes provide an unforgettable journey. Here’s a guide to the best bike tours and routes around the city, showcasing its most iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
1. The Neva River Embankment Route
The Neva River is the heart of Saint Petersburg, and cycling along its embankments offers some of the most scenic and iconic views of the city. This route takes you along the banks of the river, past stunning architectural landmarks, and through charming parks and squares.
What to Expect:
- Iconic Views: As you cycle along the Neva River, you’ll pass some of Saint Petersburg’s most famous landmarks, including the Winter Palace, the Hermitage Museum, and the Admiralty Building. The route provides beautiful views of these historic buildings and their reflections on the river’s surface.
- Bridges and Islands: The Neva River is famous for its numerous bridges, and some of the most beautiful crossings are along this route. Don’t miss the chance to cycle over iconic bridges like the Palace Bridge, which offers views of the Peter and Paul Fortress and the Golden Domes of St. Isaac’s Cathedral.
- Riverside Parks: Along the embankment, you’ll find several parks and gardens perfect for a relaxing break. Stop at Alexander Garden or the Summer Garden to enjoy some greenery before continuing your journey.
Insider Tip:
Start your tour at Palace Square and cycle westward towards Peter and Paul Fortress. The area is less crowded early in the morning, and you’ll have the chance to enjoy the river views without the hustle and bustle.
2. The Catherine Park and Tsarskoye Selo Route
For a more relaxed and nature-filled cycling experience, take a bike ride through Catherine Park in Tsarskoye Selo (Pushkin). This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the Catherine Palace and offers vast green spaces, charming pavilions, and tranquil lakes that are perfect for exploring on two wheels.
What to Expect:
- Royal Grounds: Cycling through Catherine Park lets you explore the stunning landscape gardens, with their lush greenery, sweeping lawns, and majestic trees. The park is dotted with pavilions like the Cameron Gallery and the Grotto Pavilion, each offering beautiful photo opportunities.
- Lakes and Bridges: The park features picturesque lakes, with bridges crossing over them, providing scenic spots to stop and take in the surroundings. The Great Pond is one of the park’s highlights, offering a serene atmosphere perfect for a leisurely bike ride.
- Palace Views: As you cycle through the park, you’ll pass the majestic Catherine Palace, with its Baroque architecture and grand gardens. The palace grounds are perfect for a rest or a quick detour to explore the interiors if you’re interested in history and culture.
Insider Tip:
Bring a picnic and stop by one of the quieter spots in the park to enjoy the peaceful ambiance. The area around Cameron Gallery offers stunning views and a relaxing environment.
3. The Krestovsky Island Cycling Route
For a more nature-focused bike tour, head to Krestovsky Island, located along the Neva Bay. Known for its sprawling green spaces and scenic views, this island is perfect for cycling, offering a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
What to Expect:
- Krestovsky Park: The island’s central park, Krestovsky Park, is a beautiful green space with winding paths, tranquil lakes, and gardens. Cycling through the park is a peaceful experience, as you can ride along tree-lined avenues and enjoy the natural surroundings.
- Lakes and Beaches: Krestovsky Island is also home to several small lakes, perfect for a relaxing stop. The Swan Lake and the Beaches of Krestovsky Island offer picturesque spots to take a break, especially on sunny days.
- Sports and Recreation: If you’re an active cyclist, you’ll appreciate the recreational opportunities on the island. Krestovsky Island is home to several sports complexes, including those used for the Zenit Saint Petersburg football team. The area is perfect for those who want a more energetic ride or to stop and enjoy some local sports events.
Insider Tip:
After your bike ride, head to Tavrida Park, a hidden gem on the island, known for its scenic walking paths and peaceful atmosphere.
4. The Peter and Paul Fortress and Vasilievsky Island Route
For a mix of history, culture, and scenic views, cycle along the Vasilievsky Island route, starting from the Peter and Paul Fortress. This route combines picturesque waterfront views, grand historical sites, and quiet streets lined with beautiful architecture.
What to Expect:
- Peter and Paul Fortress: Begin your ride at the Peter and Paul Fortress, the oldest part of the city. The fortress, with its impressive walls, cannons, and the Peter and Paul Cathedral, provides a historical starting point for your bike tour.
- Vasilievsky Island’s Quieter Streets: Cycle along the quieter streets of Vasilievsky Island, where you’ll encounter some of the city’s best-preserved architectural gems. The area is less crowded, allowing for a relaxed ride through charming, narrow streets.
- Riverside Views: The route offers stunning views of the Neva River, with the island’s picturesque embankments offering a peaceful ride alongside the water. You’ll pass landmarks like the Rostral Columns and the Academy of Fine Arts.
Insider Tip:
The best time to visit Vasilievsky Island is during the early morning or late evening when the streets are quieter, and the lighting is perfect for photography.
5. The Tavrichesky Garden Route
If you’re looking for a more leisurely, park-filled bike ride, Tavrichesky Garden offers a peaceful and scenic route. Located in the center of Saint Petersburg, this garden is one of the oldest and most beautiful green spaces in the city.
What to Expect:
- Tavrichesky Garden: Cycle around the beautiful Tavrichesky Garden, which features tree-lined paths, lakes, and romantic bridges. The park has a tranquil atmosphere, making it perfect for a leisurely bike ride.
- Historic Landmarks: Tavrichesky Garden is surrounded by several historic buildings, including the Tavrichesky Palace, which was once a royal residence and is now home to the Russian State Historical Archive. The park offers scenic views of these historical landmarks.
- Serene Escape: The park is less frequented by tourists, offering a peaceful ride in the heart of the city. You’ll also pass by the Moscow Triumphal Gate, an architectural gem at the edge of the park.
Insider Tip:
Take a break at one of the park’s quiet benches and enjoy the calmness of this less-crowded area. It’s an ideal spot for a peaceful rest after a relaxing ride.
6. The Neva River and Islands Route
For an extended bike tour of Saint Petersburg, consider cycling along the Neva River and its many islands, which offer spectacular views and beautiful cityscapes. This route provides a mix of scenic waterfront views, historic landmarks, and tranquil parks.
What to Expect:
- Riverfront Cycling: Starting at Palace Square, cycle along the Neva River, passing by Islands like Vasilievsky Island and Krestovsky Island. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the river, its bridges, and the historical buildings lining its shores.
- Waterfront Parks: Stop at parks like Peter and Paul Fortress Park and Yelagin Island Park, where you can take a break and enjoy the lush green spaces and beautiful views of the river.
- Landmarks and Bridges: As you cycle, you’ll pass famous landmarks such as the Hermitage Museum, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, and several historic bridges that span the Neva River.
Insider Tip:
This route is best explored during the White Nights Festival (mid-June to early July) when the days are long, and the city is alive with activities. You’ll experience Saint Petersburg in all its beauty and light.
Conclusion
Saint Petersburg is an ideal city for a bike tour, offering a perfect blend of scenic routes, historic landmarks, and natural beauty. From cycling along the Neva River Embankment to exploring the tranquil Catherine Park and Pushkin, the city’s bike-friendly routes allow you to immerse yourself in its culture and history at your own pace. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride through peaceful parks or an adventurous tour through the city’s historic streets, Saint Petersburg’s bike tours offer something for every type of explorer. So grab your bike and get ready for an unforgettable journey through Russia’s imperial capital.