Saint Petersburg is not just a city of cultural treasures, beautiful canals, and historic sites—it also offers a wide variety of outdoor activities and water-based attractions. Whether you’re seeking thrilling water park fun, relaxing boat trips along its scenic rivers, or outdoor sports in the surrounding natural landscapes, Saint Petersburg has plenty to offer for those who love to be active in the open air. In this guide, we’ll explore the best water parks and outdoor activities that will make your visit to Saint Petersburg a memorable adventure.
1. Water Parks in Saint Petersburg
1.1. Divo Ostrov Amusement Park and Water Park
One of the largest and most popular attractions for families in Saint Petersburg is Divo Ostrov, a combined amusement park and water park located on Krestovsky Island. This sprawling entertainment complex offers a wide range of rides and attractions, but its water park is especially noteworthy, providing relief from the summer heat with plenty of fun water slides, pools, and water-based attractions for all ages.
Key Features:
- Wave Pools: Experience the excitement of the ocean without leaving the city, as Divo Ostrov’s wave pool creates realistic waves.
- Water Slides: The park features a variety of water slides, including both thrilling high-speed slides and more relaxed, family-friendly options.
- Lazy River: For a more relaxing experience, float along the lazy river that winds through the park, offering a calm and scenic ride.
- Children’s Play Area: A dedicated space for younger children, with shallow pools and gentle slides.
Insider Tip: If visiting during the peak summer months, try to arrive early to avoid the crowds and make the most of the rides and attractions.
1.2. Jungle Water Park (Jungle Aquapark)
Another great option for water-themed fun is the Jungle Water Park located just outside of the city center. This indoor water park offers a variety of water slides, pools, and other fun water-based attractions. It’s especially popular during the colder months when outdoor activities might not be as appealing.
Key Features:
- Indoor Water Slides: Enjoy high-speed slides and twisty rides suitable for all ages, as well as a variety of pool options.
- Adventure Pools: Several adventure pools cater to different age groups, including deep pools for more adventurous swimmers and shallow ones for children.
- Jacuzzi and Relaxation Areas: For those looking to unwind, the park also offers jacuzzis and relaxation areas.
- Waterfall and Rapids: Experience the thrill of the waterfall or ride the rapids in the park’s specially designed water features.
Insider Tip: Jungle Aquapark is perfect for all seasons and especially ideal when you want to have fun in the water without worrying about the weather.
2. Outdoor Activities in Saint Petersburg
2.1. Boat Tours on the Neva River and Canals
Saint Petersburg is often called the “Venice of the North” due to its extensive network of rivers and canals, making it a fantastic city for boat tours. Cruising along the Neva River and its canals provides a unique perspective of the city’s stunning architecture and landmarks, including the Hermitage Museum, Peter and Paul Fortress, and Palace Square.
Key Highlights:
- Neva River Cruise: Take a boat trip along the Neva River to see the city’s main landmarks, such as the Winter Palace, Peter and Paul Fortress, and the Aurora Cruiser.
- Canal Cruises: For a more intimate experience, opt for a canal cruise through the quieter waterways of the city, where you can admire the historic bridges, courtyards, and unique architecture of Saint Petersburg’s neighborhoods.
- Nighttime Boat Tours: During the summer White Nights period, a boat tour during twilight offers an unforgettable experience of the city under the midnight sun, with many bridges raised for passing ships.
Insider Tip: For a truly magical experience, consider a nighttime river cruise during the White Nights festival when the city stays illuminated until the early hours.
2.2. Kayaking and Canoeing in the Neva and Local Rivers
If you’re looking for a more active and hands-on way to explore the waterways, kayaking or canoeing is a great option. Several tour companies in Saint Petersburg offer kayaking and canoe rentals, allowing you to glide along the Neva River, canals, and surrounding areas.
Key Highlights:
- Kayak Rentals: Rent a kayak and set off on your own adventure, exploring the rivers and canals at your own pace.
- Guided Canoe Tours: Join a guided tour to learn more about the history and architecture of the city while paddling through its scenic waterways.
- Group Paddling Events: Some companies organize group paddling events, perfect for those who want to explore with others in a fun and social setting.
Insider Tip: Make sure to book in advance, especially in summer months, as kayaking and canoeing are quite popular during the warmer weather.
2.3. Cycling Around the City
Saint Petersburg is a bike-friendly city, with many dedicated cycling paths and routes that allow you to explore its neighborhoods and parks at your own pace. Renting a bicycle is an easy and affordable way to navigate the city and enjoy its natural beauty.
Key Highlights:
- Gorky Central Park: Rent a bike and take a ride through the Gorky Central Park, a sprawling green space with paths that wind through beautiful wooded areas and lakes.
- Peter and Paul Fortress: Cycle around the iconic Peter and Paul Fortress for stunning views of the Neva River and the city’s skyline.
- Nevsky Prospect: Take a ride down Nevsky Prospect, Saint Petersburg’s main avenue, and experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere and architectural landmarks.
Insider Tip: There are several bike rental shops around the city, and many offer guided bike tours to help you discover hidden gems and learn more about the city’s history while cycling.
2.4. Hiking in the Leningrad Region
Just outside of Saint Petersburg, the Leningrad Region offers a variety of hiking opportunities, with its dense forests, tranquil lakes, and beautiful natural landscapes. If you’re looking for an escape from the city, these areas are perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Key Highlights:
- Tikhvin Nature Reserve: Explore the quiet forests and lakes in this nature reserve, home to abundant wildlife and peaceful hiking trails.
- Lake Ladoga: Hike along the shores of Lake Ladoga, Europe’s largest freshwater lake, and enjoy the stunning views and surrounding nature.
- Karelian Isthmus: The Karelian Isthmus offers scenic trails and hiking routes through forests and hills, perfect for a more challenging outdoor adventure.
Insider Tip: Pack comfortable hiking boots, plenty of water, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes during your hike in the Leningrad Region.
3. Outdoor Sports and Recreation
3.1. Winter Sports at the Ski Resorts Near Saint Petersburg
While Saint Petersburg itself doesn’t have ski slopes, there are several ski resorts within a few hours’ drive of the city, offering fantastic winter sports opportunities. These resorts are ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing, as well as relaxing in a winter wonderland setting.
Key Resorts:
- Igora Ski Resort: Located about 50 kilometers from Saint Petersburg, Igora offers downhill skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.
- Shuvalovka Ski Resort: A smaller but charming option for beginners and families, offering slopes for skiing and snowboarding, as well as cozy cabins for a winter retreat.
Insider Tip: Ski season in the region typically runs from December to March, so plan your visit accordingly to make the most of the winter sports offerings.
4. Boating and Water Sports on the Gulf of Finland
During the warmer months, the Gulf of Finland offers an ideal setting for boating, sailing, and other water sports. Many water sports clubs and rental shops along the coast offer opportunities to explore the Gulf’s tranquil waters and take part in various activities like windsurfing and sailing.
Key Highlights:
- Sailing and Yachting: Rent a sailboat or yacht and spend the day on the Gulf of Finland, enjoying the stunning coastline and picturesque islands.
- Windsurfing: For those seeking a thrill, windsurfing on the Gulf’s waters is a popular activity, especially during the summer months when conditions are ideal.
Insider Tip: If you’re new to water sports, consider booking a lesson or guided tour to get started on sailing or windsurfing.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a fun day at the water park, an adventure on the waterways, or a tranquil hike through the forests, Saint Petersburg and its surroundings offer a wide range of outdoor activities that cater to every interest. From relaxing days on the water to exhilarating biking, hiking, and winter sports adventures, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the city’s natural beauty and engage in exciting outdoor experiences. Plan your visit according to the season, and take advantage of the variety of outdoor attractions to make the most of your time in this vibrant city.