Saint Petersburg, with its canals, rivers, grand boulevards, and iconic landmarks, offers a stunning backdrop for a leisurely café experience. Whether you’re looking to sip a cup of coffee while admiring the Neva River, relax by a canal, or enjoy panoramic views of some of the city’s most famous landmarks, there are many cafés that offer both excellent food and breathtaking views. Here’s a guide to the best cafés in Saint Petersburg with scenic views, perfect for tourists looking to enjoy the city’s beauty while indulging in a delicious treat.
1. Canvas Café
Location: 33B, Griboedova Canal Embankment
Canvas Café, located along the picturesque Griboedova Canal, is a perfect spot for those who want to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere while overlooking the water. This modern café is known for its cozy vibe and beautiful views of the canal and nearby bridges, making it an ideal place for tourists to take a break while exploring the city.
Why It’s Special:
- Canal Views: Canvas Café offers scenic views of the Griboedova Canal, which is particularly beautiful in the evening when the bridges are lit up.
- Creative Menu: Known for its contemporary design and international menu, the café serves everything from coffee and pastries to savory dishes with a modern twist.
- Cozy Ambiance: The minimalist yet warm interior makes it a great place to unwind with a book or enjoy a leisurely conversation while taking in the view.
Canvas Café provides a stylish environment with stunning views of Saint Petersburg’s waterways.
2. Terrassa
Location: 52, Bolshaya Konyushennaya Street
Terrassa is one of Saint Petersburg’s most popular rooftop cafés, offering stunning panoramic views of the city. Situated on the top floor of a building, it provides an incredible vantage point over famous landmarks like the Kazan Cathedral and Nevsky Prospect. The outdoor terrace is perfect for enjoying drinks or meals while gazing at the beautiful cityscape.
Why It’s Special:
- Rooftop Views: Enjoy sweeping views of the Kazan Cathedral, Nevsky Prospect, and other iconic buildings in the heart of the city.
- Delicious Cuisine: Terrassa’s menu includes a variety of Mediterranean and Russian-inspired dishes, along with an excellent selection of cocktails.
- Charming Terrace: The open-air terrace is ideal for sunny days, while the indoor seating area also offers panoramic views through large windows.
Terrassa is a must-visit for tourists who want to combine great food with a breathtaking view of Saint Petersburg’s city center.
3. **Chaihana»
Location: 15, Nevsky Prospect
Located on Nevsky Prospect, Chaihana offers a unique experience with a traditional Central Asian flair. The café features an inviting atmosphere with comfortable seating and a wide selection of teas, along with dishes inspired by Central Asian and Russian cuisine. With its elegant decor and warm ambiance, it is the perfect place to take in the beauty of Saint Petersburg while enjoying delicious tea or coffee.
Why It’s Special:
- Riverside Views: The café offers a charming view of the Moyka River, with tranquil waters and a peaceful atmosphere for dining.
- Tea Culture: Chaihana specializes in a wide range of teas, including those from Central Asia, as well as pastries and light meals.
- Unique Vibe: The café has a distinctive décor, featuring traditional Central Asian elements, making it stand out among the more classic European-style cafés in the city.
Chaihana offers a unique cultural experience with beautiful riverside views and delicious tea-based drinks.
4. Riverside Café
Location: 6, Griboedova Canal Embankment
For a café with a prime location right on the river, the Riverside Café is a fantastic option. Situated along the Griboedova Canal, this charming spot offers excellent views of the canal and the surrounding architecture. Whether you want a cup of coffee or a full meal, the Riverside Café’s atmosphere and location make it perfect for tourists exploring the city.
Why It’s Special:
- Canal-side Location: Riverside Café offers picturesque views of the Griboedova Canal, with the opportunity to watch boats and gondolas drift by.
- Varied Menu: The café offers an international menu with a focus on fresh, local ingredients, making it perfect for both light snacks and more substantial meals.
- Relaxed Atmosphere: With both indoor and outdoor seating options, the Riverside Café provides a comfortable setting to relax while enjoying the scenery.
Riverside Café is a great choice for anyone wanting to enjoy a leisurely break by the water in one of Saint Petersburg’s most scenic neighborhoods.
5. Sky Lounge
Location: 17, Ulitsa Pravdy (Top Floor of the Holiday Inn)
Sky Lounge, located on the top floor of the Holiday Inn, offers one of the best panoramic views in Saint Petersburg. From this rooftop bar, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Neva River, the historic center, and landmarks such as the Peter and Paul Fortress and the Winter Palace. With its sleek interior and stylish design, Sky Lounge offers a luxurious setting for sipping cocktails or enjoying a meal while gazing out over the city.
Why It’s Special:
- Panoramic City Views: The bar provides stunning panoramic views of Saint Petersburg, including the Neva River, iconic buildings, and the city’s unique skyline.
- Signature Cocktails: Sky Lounge is known for its expertly crafted cocktails, making it a great spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
- Modern Elegance: The sleek, modern design of the lounge offers an upscale environment to relax and take in the stunning views of the city.
For an elevated experience with some of the best views in the city, Sky Lounge is an excellent choice.
6. Kofe & Kholodets
Location: 6, Liteyny Prospect
For tourists who prefer a more laid-back café experience, Kofe & Kholodets offers a cozy atmosphere combined with beautiful views of the Fontanka River. This charming café is known for its rich coffee, hearty Russian dishes, and comfortable seating. The picturesque view of the river and nearby bridges makes it an ideal spot to enjoy both the local cuisine and the scenery.
Why It’s Special:
- River Views: The café offers a lovely view of the Fontanka River, providing a calm and scenic setting for a relaxing meal or drink.
- Traditional Russian Cuisine: Kofe & Kholodets serves a variety of traditional Russian dishes, including comforting stews and pastries.
- Charming Décor: The café’s cozy, rustic design provides a welcoming environment to relax and enjoy your meal while watching the world go by along the river.
Kofe & Kholodets is the perfect café for tourists looking for a cozy place to enjoy traditional Russian dishes with scenic river views.
7. Cafe Singer
Location: 1, Nevsky Prospect (Inside the Singer House)
Cafe Singer is located inside the iconic Singer House, a historic building that offers fantastic views of Nevsky Prospect and the Kazan Cathedral. The café’s classic interior, combined with the historic ambiance, makes it a lovely place to stop for a cup of tea or coffee while taking in the grandeur of Saint Petersburg’s central street.
Why It’s Special:
- Historic Setting: Housed in the iconic Singer House, the café offers an atmosphere of historical elegance, with large windows overlooking Nevsky Prospect and Kazan Cathedral.
- Central Location: Located on one of the busiest and most vibrant streets in Saint Petersburg, Cafe Singer is a great spot for people-watching while enjoying a break from sightseeing.
- Cultural Hub: The café often hosts cultural events, making it a great place to immerse yourself in the artistic scene of the city.
For a café experience in a historic building with one of the best central locations in Saint Petersburg, Cafe Singer is a must-visit.
Conclusion
Saint Petersburg is filled with cafés that offer not only excellent food and drinks but also stunning views of the city’s most iconic landmarks and picturesque waterways. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a cup of coffee by the canal, sip cocktails while watching the city skyline, or enjoy traditional Russian cuisine in a scenic setting, these cafés provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing break during your sightseeing adventures. Don’t miss out on these scenic spots to experience the beauty of Saint Petersburg from a different perspective!
