Yelagin Island St. Petersburg
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Yelagin Island St. Petersburg

4.7
·399 reviews·Saint Petersburg, Russia

A serene island escape in St. Petersburg, featuring a historic palace, lush gardens, and abundant wildlife.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Free entry and fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Yelagin Island St. Petersburg

Yelagin Island St. Petersburg

Best Time

Weekdays

Free entry and fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene island escape in St. Petersburg, featuring a historic palace, lush gardens, and abundant wildlife.

4.7
(399 reviews)

"An ideal area to spend a nice day alone with friends or family, with its clean air and beautiful nature."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk or Cycle

Rent a bike to explore the island's vast grounds efficiently. It's a popular way to see the sights!

🐿️ Feed the Squirrels

Bring nuts to delight the island's friendly squirrel residents. They're quite accustomed to visitors!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Yelagin Palace

Yelagin Palace

Central part of the island

Explore the former summer residence of Russian nobles, now a museum showcasing imperial history.

Instagram
Nature Trails and Gardens

Nature Trails and Gardens

Throughout the island

Wander through picturesque parks, gardens, and along the waterfront. Perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls.

Instagram+1
Wildlife Encounters

Wildlife Encounters

Various areas

Spot friendly squirrels eager for treats and observe local birdlife by the water.

Instagram+1
Tulip Festival (Seasonal)

Tulip Festival (Seasonal)

Designated garden areas

Experience a vibrant display of tulips in late spring, a beautiful spectacle of color.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Weekday vs. Weekend Entry

Enjoy free entry to Yelagin Island on weekdays! Weekends and holidays have a small admission fee, so plan accordingly to save money and avoid potential queues. Reddit

Embrace the Outdoors

Yelagin Island is all about nature and recreation. Pack comfortable shoes for walking, cycling, or skating. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, especially if visiting on a weekend when cafes might be busy. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Free entry and fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late Spring (May)
Why
Tulip festival blooms
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer Mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for activities
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

😍❄️✨#city #snow #loveyou #saintpetersburg #wintervibes
@b_v_o95
111K likes • 781.8K views

🚶‍♀️ Walk or Cycle

Rent a bike to explore the island's vast grounds efficiently. It's a popular way to see the sights! Reddit

🐿️ Feed the Squirrels

Bring nuts to delight the island's friendly squirrel residents. They're quite accustomed to visitors! InstagramReddit

Saint Petersburg (G&B) 💀 #gutsandblackpowderroblox #gutsandblackpowderrobloxcontent #gutsandblackpowderedit #zombie #roblox #napoleon #russia
@thien_vu137
24.9K likes • 348.9K views
Yelagin Island / 🌳 Парк на Елагином Острове 🌿 They say Russian nobles used to live on this island. After the revolution of 1917 this place was turned into a public park. #reels #reel #reelsviral #reelstrending #reelslovers #reelvideo #reelsinstagram #travel #travelgram #stpetersburg #санктпетербург #питер #спб
alesia_lisichnikova
233 likes • 4.3K views

🧺 Picnic Paradise

Perfect spot for a picnic with beautiful natural surroundings. Pack your own food and enjoy. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The island offers lovely waterfront vistas and charming palace architecture for photos. Instagram

New virtual tour on June, 3. Yelagin Palace and park in St. Petersburg, is a lesser-known yet charming former residence of the Romanov family. The island was purchased by Catherine the Great in the 18th century and transformed into a summer retreat by her grandson, Alexander I. Nicholas II often visited Yelagin Palace, as it was a favorite residence of his mother, Dowager Empress Maria Feodorovna...
anna.yourguide
11 likes • 665 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk or Cycle

Rent a bike to explore the island's vast grounds efficiently. It's a popular way to see the sights! Reddit

🐿️ Feed the Squirrels

Bring nuts to delight the island's friendly squirrel residents. They're quite accustomed to visitors! InstagramReddit

🧺 Picnic Paradise

Perfect spot for a picnic with beautiful natural surroundings. Pack your own food and enjoy. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The island offers lovely waterfront vistas and charming palace architecture for photos. Instagram

💰 Weekend Fee

Entry is free on weekdays, but there's a small fee on weekends and holidays. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(399 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Yelagin Island as an ideal spot for picnics, walks, and sports, praising its clean air and beautiful nature. Many highlight the joy of feeding the squirrels and the peaceful atmosphere. While weekdays offer free entry, weekends have a small fee, and some find cafes can be busy. Overall, it's considered a natural oasis perfect for family outings or a relaxing day.

"It is an ideal area to spend a nice day alone with your friends or family, with its clean air and beautiful nature, it is very suitable for picnics, walking, sports. entrance is free on weekdays and paid on weekends. There are many cafes and restaurants. You can rent scooter also from there. Don't forget to bring nuts to feed the squirrels.🐿💙"

Erman KARLI

"Very very nice garden. In my visit time, it was really nice. Beautiful creek, interesting ducks with their chicken and a mild wind has no other meaning else heaven garden."

Alireza Farahani

"Yelagin is a park island which consists of palace and beautiful gardens. It would be more beautiful in summer."

anilrai kandimalla

What People Like

Beautiful nature and clean air
Great for picnics and walks
Friendly squirrels

What People Dislike

Weekend entry fee
Crowded cafes on weekends

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach Yelagin Island by public transport. Take the metro to Krestovsky Ostrov station and then walk or take a bus. Taxis are also readily available. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available on the island, but it can get busy, especially on weekends. Consider public transport for a more relaxed experience. Reddit

Walking is great for exploring specific areas, but renting a bicycle is highly recommended to cover the island's expanse efficiently. Reddit

Several bus routes serve the area around Yelagin Island, often connecting from nearby metro stations like Krestovsky Ostrov. Check local transport apps for the most current routes. Reddit

Yelagin Island is well-signposted, especially from major transport hubs. Using a GPS or map app on your phone will ensure you reach it without issues. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Yelagin Island is free on weekdays. On weekends and public holidays, there is a small admission fee. Reddit

The park is generally open year-round, but specific palace hours may vary. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on park and palace access. Instagram

Advance ticket purchase is typically not necessary for general park entry, especially on weekdays. For special events or palace tours, it's advisable to check for booking options. Instagram

While weekdays offer free entry, specific discounts for groups or certain categories might be available. It's worth checking the official park information for details. Reddit

The weekend fee typically grants access to the park grounds. Access to the Yelagin Palace museum may require a separate ticket or be included in specific tour packages. Instagram

🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy walking, cycling, skating, picnicking, birdwatching, and visiting the Yelagin Palace museum. It's a great place for outdoor recreation. Reddit

Yes, there are cafes and restaurants on the island offering various food options. You can also bring your own food for a picnic. Reddit

Bicycle rentals are widely available on the island, making it easy to explore. Scooter rentals might also be an option. Reddit

Absolutely! It's a fantastic place for families, with plenty of open space for kids to run around, nature to explore, and friendly squirrels to spot. InstagramReddit

While beautiful year-round, late spring (May) for the Tulip Festival and summer offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Winter can be magical with snow. TikTokInstagram

📸 📸 Photography

The Yelagin Palace, the waterfront promenades, the lush gardens, and the charming bridges offer excellent photographic opportunities. Instagram

Photography rules inside the Yelagin Palace museum may vary. It's best to check with the museum staff upon arrival for specific guidelines. Instagram

Drone usage is often restricted in parks and near historical sites. It's advisable to check local regulations or contact the park administration before flying a drone. TikTok

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) provides beautiful soft light for landscape and architectural photography. Midday sun can be harsh. Instagram

Yes, you can photograph the wildlife, but always maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing the animals. Feeding them is encouraged, but only with appropriate food like nuts. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Yelagin Island is a fantastic destination for families. The spacious parks offer ample room for children to run and play freely. Reddit Bring snacks and drinks for a delightful picnic, and don't forget some nuts to feed the very friendly squirrels, which is always a hit with kids! InstagramReddit Renting bicycles is a fun way for the whole family to explore the island together. Reddit

Consider visiting on a weekday to enjoy free entry and fewer crowds, making the experience more relaxed for everyone. The natural beauty and opportunities for wildlife spotting provide an engaging and educational outing for young visitors.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples

For solo travelers or couples seeking a peaceful retreat, Yelagin Island offers a serene escape. Enjoy leisurely walks through the picturesque gardens and along the waterfront, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. Instagram Renting a bicycle for a solo exploration or a romantic ride is highly recommended. Reddit The island provides numerous scenic spots perfect for quiet contemplation or intimate moments amidst nature. Instagram

Visiting on a weekday ensures a more secluded experience. Pack a book or simply enjoy the natural beauty and the charming architecture of Yelagin Palace. It's an ideal spot for a relaxing day away from the city's hustle.

👟 Active Enthusiasts

Yelagin Island is a paradise for active individuals. The extensive network of paths is perfect for running, jogging, and cycling. Reddit You can rent bicycles on-site to cover more ground and enjoy the scenic routes. Reddit The open fields are also suitable for various outdoor sports and exercises. Reddit

For those who enjoy a brisk walk, the island offers miles of beautiful trails. The fresh air and natural surroundings make any physical activity here particularly invigorating. Don't forget to wear comfortable athletic shoes!

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History: Yelagin Palace

Yelagin Island boasts the elegant Yelagin Palace, a significant historical landmark. Originally a summer residence for Russian nobility, it was acquired by Catherine the Great in the 18th century and later transformed into a grand retreat by her grandson, Alexander I. Instagram The palace has witnessed periods of imperial grandeur and has been a favorite spot for various Romanov family members, including Nicholas II. Instagram Today, the palace serves as a museum, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and explore its opulent interiors and learn about its rich past. Instagram

The palace's architecture and historical significance make it a must-visit for history buffs and those interested in Russian imperial life. The surrounding parkland was also meticulously designed to complement the palace, creating a harmonious estate. Instagram

Nature's Oasis: Exploring the Island's Green Spaces

Yelagin Island is a beloved green lung for St. Petersburg, offering a refreshing escape from the urban bustle. The island is characterized by its naturalistic parks and gardens, designed to provide a serene and picturesque environment. Instagram Visitors can wander along well-maintained paths, discover hidden nooks, and enjoy the fresh air. The island's landscape features beautiful creeks, diverse flora, and open lawns perfect for relaxation and recreation. Reddit

The island's natural beauty is a major draw, especially for locals seeking outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful walk, a place to jog, or a scenic spot for a picnic, Yelagin Island delivers. The presence of wildlife, like the famously friendly squirrels, adds an extra layer of charm to the experience. InstagramReddit

Recreation and Activities on Yelagin Island

Yelagin Island is a hub for various recreational activities, catering to all ages and interests. Cycling and skating are incredibly popular, with many visitors renting bikes to traverse the island's extensive network of paths. Reddit The open spaces are also ideal for picnics, allowing families and friends to gather and enjoy the natural surroundings. Reddit For those seeking a more active experience, jogging and other forms of exercise are common. Reddit

The island provides a fantastic opportunity to engage in outdoor pursuits in a beautiful setting. During specific seasons, events like the Tulip Festival add a unique attraction, drawing crowds to witness the vibrant floral displays. Instagram The island's amenities, including cafes and rental services, enhance the visitor experience, making it a well-rounded destination for a day out. Reddit

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