General Staff Building
Neoclassical marvel housing vast collections of Russian and European art, famed for its Impressionist masterpieces and grand arch.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more art appreciation
General Staff Building
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more art appreciation
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Neoclassical marvel housing vast collections of Russian and European art, famed for its Impressionist masterpieces and grand arch.
"The Impressionist collection is outstanding and blew my mind!"
Allocate a Full Day
This place is HUGE! Plan for at least 4-6 hours, or split it over two days with the main Hermitage.
Focus on Impressionism
The 3rd floor is a must for Impressionist lovers! Van Gogh, Monet, Picasso galore.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Impressionist Masterpieces
3rd Floor
An outstanding collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, featuring Van Gogh, Monet, and Picasso.
Grand Arch of the General Staff
Palace Square
A monumental neoclassical arch connecting Palace Square to Nevsky Street, offering iconic city views.
Modern Architectural Interiors
New Wing
Stunning contemporary interiors that beautifully complement the historic architectural features.
Views from the Windows
3rd Floor Windows
Unique perspectives of St. Petersburg rooftops and the Moika River, a favorite spot for artists.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Allocate Ample Time
Book Tickets Strategically
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allocate a Full Day
This place is HUGE! Plan for at least 4-6 hours, or split it over two days with the main Hermitage.
Focus on Impressionism
The 3rd floor is a must for Impressionist lovers! Van Gogh, Monet, Picasso galore.
Don't Miss the Arch
The Arch of the General Staff is iconic. Great photo op connecting Palace Square.
Check Ticket Inclusions
New wing requires a separate ticket. Understand what your 500 roubles covers.
Tips
from all over the internet
Allocate a Full Day
This place is HUGE! Plan for at least 4-6 hours, or split it over two days with the main Hermitage.
Focus on Impressionism
The 3rd floor is a must for Impressionist lovers! Van Gogh, Monet, Picasso galore.
Don't Miss the Arch
The Arch of the General Staff is iconic. Great photo op connecting Palace Square.
Check Ticket Inclusions
New wing requires a separate ticket. Understand what your 500 roubles covers.
Enjoy the Views
The windows on the 3rd floor offer amazing city views, especially of the rooftops.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the General Staff Building's stunning Impressionist collection and its monumental architecture. Many highlight the impressive modern interiors and the unique city views from the third floor. While the sheer size can be overwhelming, most agree it's a must-visit for art lovers and offers a distinct experience from the main Hermitage.
"Huge museum with monumental contemporary interiors that maintain the source architectural features. You can simply walk around and enjoy the designs, but there are also a big collection of paintings by Van Gogh, Monet, Picasso and other dudes, as well as other pieces if art and temporary exhibitions. Cafe and lecture hall are also available."
Lee Yan
"Must visit museum in Saint Petersburg. Plan Hermitage one day and this for another day. Both single day is too much to digest. Take time and enjoy each sections. Worth your time spent. No advance booking required. Ticket was 500 roubles."
HardTrail Rider
"The arch of the General Staff and the new wing are simply wonderful
The Hermitage is a real pearl.
it is worth going here definitely and more than once! I went 3 times for last year and I want more! getting into the new wing you pay for the entrance to one part of the Hermitage.
but you don’t have enough time of the day to go through it.
museum is very huge and amazing"
RPL 3000
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The General Staff Building is located on Palace Square, directly opposite the main Hermitage Museum. You can easily reach it by metro to Nevsky Prospekt or Admiralteyskaya stations, followed by a short walk. Many bus routes also stop nearby.
Yes, it's a straightforward walk from the nearest metro stations. Follow signs towards Palace Square, and you'll see the grand arch and building.
Absolutely! The Arch of the General Staff is the gateway between the two, making it incredibly convenient to visit both.
Public transport is efficient. Buses and trams are readily available. For longer distances or convenience, consider ride-sharing apps.
Parking in the city center can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport or taxis.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The ticket price is approximately 500 roubles. However, this typically grants access to specific sections, like the Impressionist collection.
Advance booking is not always required, but it's recommended during peak tourist seasons to avoid queues.
No, the ticket for the General Staff Building usually covers its own collections. Entry to the main Hermitage Museum requires a separate ticket.
Opening hours can vary, but generally, it's open from 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last entry at 5:00 PM. It's always best to check the official Hermitage website for the most current information.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or specific nationalities. It's advisable to inquire at the ticket office or check the official website.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The 3rd floor's vast collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art is a major highlight. Also, don't miss the monumental interiors and the views from the windows.
To truly appreciate the collections, plan for at least 4-6 hours. Many visitors find it overwhelming to combine with the main Hermitage in a single day.
The building has modern architecture with elevators and ramps in many areas, making it relatively accessible. However, it's always good to confirm specific accessibility features with the museum.
Yes, guided tours are often available, providing deeper insights into the art and history. Check with the museum information desk for schedules and languages.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artworks. Some special exhibitions may have stricter rules.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe within the building where you can grab a coffee or a light meal.
The area around Palace Square and Nevsky Prospekt offers a wide range of cafes, restaurants, and eateries, from casual to fine dining.
Typically, large food items and drinks are not allowed inside the exhibition halls. There might be designated areas for consumption.
📸 📸 Photography
The Arch of the General Staff offers iconic shots of Palace Square. The windows on the 3rd floor provide unique cityscapes.
Yes, personal photography is generally permitted, but without flash. Check for any specific restrictions on temporary exhibitions.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide architectural shots and details of the art. A tripod is usually not allowed inside.
Drone usage is strictly prohibited in the city center, especially around historical landmarks like Palace Square.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more manageable, prioritize specific sections rather than trying to see everything. The sheer scale can be tiring, so plan for breaks. Look for any family-friendly guides or activities the museum might offer, though these are less common for this specific building compared to the main Hermitage.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Don't overlook the temporary exhibitions, which often feature cutting-edge contemporary art or delve into specific historical periods. The modern architectural design of the new wing also provides an interesting contrast and context for viewing the art. Consider joining a guided tour focused on the Impressionist wing for deeper insights.
📸 Photographers
For a unique perspective, head to the third-floor windows that overlook the city's rooftops and the Moika River. This spot is so popular that you might have to wait for your turn to capture the view.
Remember that flash photography is prohibited, so ensure you have good low-light capabilities or a fast lens. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art Collections: A World of Masterpieces
Beyond Impressionism, the building also houses significant collections of European art from the 19th and 20th centuries, as well as temporary exhibitions that showcase diverse artistic expressions. The museum's modern architectural design within the historic structure creates a unique ambiance, allowing the art to shine.
Many visitors are captivated by the 'new wing' which offers a contemporary contrast to the historic facade. This section is crucial to understand when planning your visit, as it often requires a separate admission ticket from the main Hermitage Museum, even though it's part of the same complex.
Architectural Marvels and Iconic Views
Inside, the building seamlessly blends its historic grandeur with modern museum design. The vast, light-filled halls and contemporary exhibition spaces are designed to enhance the viewing experience of the artworks. Visitors often remark on how the modern interiors complement, rather than detract from, the building's original character.
A unique aspect highlighted by visitors is the captivating views from the third-floor windows. These vantage points offer picturesque scenes of St. Petersburg's rooftops and the Moika River, a perspective that has even inspired artists to paint the scenery.
It's a reminder that the building offers more than just art; it provides a distinct way to see and appreciate the city. 
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