
Konstantin Palace Strelna
A lavish former imperial residence and park, now a state complex hosting events and showcasing Russian art and elite wines.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene

Konstantin Palace Strelna
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A lavish former imperial residence and park, now a state complex hosting events and showcasing Russian art and elite wines.
"It's breathtaking scenery, really ravishing and I'm loving it."

Check for Event Closures
The palace hosts official events, which can affect public access. Always check the schedule beforehand! :calendar:
Explore the Expansive Parks
Don't miss the beautiful parks with canals and fountains. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Cascade
Park
A stunning ensemble of fountains, canals, and drawbridges, reminiscent of Versailles.

Imperial Art Collections
Palace Interior
Exhibitions of Russian painting and decorative arts from the 18th-20th centuries.

The Wine Cellars
Palace Grottos
Home to one of the world's most extensive collections of elite wines.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Grandeur
Understanding the Palace's Dual Nature
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check for Event Closures
The palace hosts official events, which can affect public access. Always check the schedule beforehand! :calendar:
Explore the Expansive Parks
Don't miss the beautiful parks with canals and fountains. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Appreciate the Art
The palace houses impressive collections of Russian art and decorative items. :art:
Consider a Guided Tour
A guide can offer deeper insights into the palace's history and art. :guide_dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check for Event Closures
The palace hosts official events, which can affect public access. Always check the schedule beforehand! :calendar:
Explore the Expansive Parks
Don't miss the beautiful parks with canals and fountains. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Appreciate the Art
The palace houses impressive collections of Russian art and decorative items. :art:
Consider a Guided Tour
A guide can offer deeper insights into the palace's history and art. :guide_dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise Konstantin Palace for its magnificent architecture, stunning parks, and impressive art collections, calling it breathtaking and ravishing. However, some reviews express disappointment, viewing the modern reconstruction as gaudy and a waste of taxpayer money, suggesting it lacks the authenticity of older palaces.
"Magnificent Konstantin palace, the revived residence of Grand Dukes of the House of Romanovs, is an architectural dominant of the State Complex “The National Congress Palace”.
Konstantin palace is the dominating structure of the State Complex “The National Congress Palace”. It is surrounded by parks which are decorated with the inimitable ensemble of fountains, canals, draw bridges and splendid rosaries. It is the former residence of grand dukes of the House of Romanovs and the revived monument of the Russian architecture of the XVIII century. Today within the palace expositions Russian painting, decorative and applied arts of XVIII-XX centuries including the world-famous collection of M. Rostropovich and G. Vishnevskaya are widely presented. At the grottos of Konstantin Palace wine cellars with one of the greatest collection of elite wines in the world are placed. The palace is surrounded by the park, extending to the coast of the Gulf of Finland."
Me 1974
"What a waste of money and time. Gaudy, tasteless modern reconstruction of old gorgeous palace built for Putin on taxpayers money so he could feel like a man. A therapist would cost less."
Andrey Popov
"Very elegant and attractive Palace that is worthwhile visiting, the rooms inside are emaculately designed."
Robbie Plant
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Konstantin Palace is located in Strelna, a suburb of St. Petersburg. You can reach it by taxi or by taking public transport. Buses and marshrutkas (minibuses) are available from various points in the city, often heading towards Peterhof, and you can alight at Strelna. Some visitors opt for a combination of metro and bus. :bus: :taxi:
Yes, driving to Konstantin Palace is a viable option, and there is usually parking available. The drive from central St. Petersburg takes approximately 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. :car:
For a day trip, combining public transport with a short taxi ride can be efficient. Alternatively, organized tours often include transportation, making it hassle-free. :tour_bus:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary depending on which areas you wish to visit (palace interior, park, exhibitions). It's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing and any potential package deals. :ticket:
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak season or if you plan to visit on a weekend. This can save you time queuing. :computer:
Opening hours can differ for the palace interiors, exhibitions, and the park. Generally, the palace is open daily, but it's best to confirm the specific hours for your intended visit date on their official website. :clock:
Photography policies can change. Typically, photography without flash is allowed in most public areas, but specific exhibitions or rooms might have restrictions. Always look for signage or ask staff. :camerawithflash:
Access to the wine cellars may be part of specific tours or require separate booking. Inquire about availability and tour options when purchasing your tickets. :wine_glass:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the opulent interiors, admire Russian art collections, wander through the beautifully landscaped parks with fountains and canals, and even visit the renowned wine cellars. :palace: :art: :fountain:
To fully appreciate the palace and its grounds, plan for at least 3-4 hours. If you wish to explore the art exhibitions and enjoy a leisurely walk in the park, you might need more time. :stopwatch:
The parks are generally accessible year-round, but their beauty is most pronounced during spring and summer when the gardens are in full bloom. Winter can offer a different, serene charm. :evergreen_tree:
While the ground floor of the palace and some park areas are accessible, older structures can present challenges. It's best to contact the palace directly to inquire about specific accessibility features. :wheelchair:
The park features a stunning ensemble of fountains, canals, drawbridges, and rosaries, creating a picturesque landscape that rivals famous European gardens. :rose:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are typically cafes or restaurants within the palace complex or nearby, offering refreshments and meals. Check the official website for current dining facilities. :coffee: :forkandknife:
Picnicking might be allowed in designated areas of the park, but it's best to check the palace's specific rules regarding outside food and beverages. :sandwich:
📸 📸 Photography
The Grand Cascade, the palace's facade, the formal gardens, and the waterfront along the Gulf of Finland offer stunning photographic opportunities. :camera:
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around historical sites and government complexes. It's highly unlikely to be permitted and could lead to serious issues. :noentrysign:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs
🥂 Wine Connoisseurs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Imperial History
Despite suffering damage during World War II, the palace underwent extensive restoration in the early 21st century, transforming it into the State Complex 'The National Congress Palace'. This revival aimed to preserve its historical significance while adapting it for modern use, including hosting international summits and political events. The restoration meticulously recreated its former splendor, making it a testament to Russian architectural heritage.
Today, visitors can explore the lavishly decorated interiors, which showcase Russian painting and decorative arts from the 18th to 20th centuries. The palace also boasts an impressive collection of elite wines housed in its grottos, adding another layer to its historical and cultural appeal.
The Enchanting Parks and Fountains
These meticulously maintained gardens offer a serene escape and are perfect for leisurely strolls. The combination of water features, manicured lawns, and elegant pathways makes it an ideal setting for photography and relaxation. During warmer months, the parks are in full bloom, adding vibrant colors to the already picturesque scenery.
Visitors can spend hours exploring the different sections of the park, discovering hidden corners and enjoying the panoramic views. The proximity to the Gulf of Finland also provides a unique maritime element to the estate, enhancing its overall charm and appeal.
Modern Role and Artistic Treasures
Inside, the palace houses significant collections of Russian art, including paintings and decorative arts from the 18th to 20th centuries. Notably, it features items from the world-famous collection of Mstislav Rostropovich and Galina Vishnevskaya, adding a layer of artistic prestige.
The palace's wine cellars are also a point of interest, reputed to hold one of the world's greatest collections of elite wines. This adds an element of luxury and connoisseurship to the visitor experience, complementing the visual splendor of the palace and its grounds.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit