Kronverksky Embankment Saint Petersburg
A former imperial residence and now a world-renowned museum, offering a glimpse into Russia's opulent past and artistic treasures.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Kronverksky Embankment Saint Petersburg
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A former imperial residence and now a world-renowned museum, offering a glimpse into Russia's opulent past and artistic treasures.
"One of the most beautiful places I have visited in Saint Petersburg. You have to see this place, it is an exceptional kind of art."
Allocate Ample Time for Hermitage
Don't rush the Hermitage! Plan a full afternoon; it's immense. :clock1:
Capture the Grandeur
The architecture is stunning. Bring your camera for breathtaking shots of the palace and square. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Winter Palace
Hermitage Museum
Former imperial residence, now a world-class museum. Explore opulent state rooms and vast art collections.

Palace Square
Adjacent to the Winter Palace
The grand central square, a historic heart of the city. Perfect for photos and soaking in the imperial atmosphere.

Alexander Garden
South of the Winter Palace
A serene escape with fountains and flowerbeds. Ideal for a peaceful stroll after museum visits.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for the Hermitage
Embrace the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allocate Ample Time for Hermitage
Don't rush the Hermitage! Plan a full afternoon; it's immense.
:clock1:Capture the Grandeur
The architecture is stunning. Bring your camera for breathtaking shots of the palace and square.
:camerawithflash:Comfortable Shoes are Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking, both on the embankment and inside the museum.
:athletic_shoe:Consider a Guided Tour
Enhance your understanding of the history and art with a knowledgeable guide. :bustsinsilhouette:
Tips
from all over the internet
Allocate Ample Time for Hermitage
Don't rush the Hermitage! Plan a full afternoon; it's immense.
:clock1:Capture the Grandeur
The architecture is stunning. Bring your camera for breathtaking shots of the palace and square.
:camerawithflash:Comfortable Shoes are Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking, both on the embankment and inside the museum.
:athletic_shoe:Consider a Guided Tour
Enhance your understanding of the history and art with a knowledgeable guide. :bustsinsilhouette:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking beauty and historical significance of the Winter Palace and its surroundings. The vast art collection within the Hermitage is a major draw, offering an exceptional cultural experience. While the sheer scale can be daunting, the architectural grandeur and artistic treasures leave a lasting impression.
"One of the most beautiful places I have visited in Saint Petersburg. You have to see this place, it is an exceptional kind of art. Great building with a lot of small artistic elements and details. 🩵 With love from Serbia 🇷🇸🇷🇺"
Luka Tošić
"The palace has beautiful red carpet and holds meaningful state room paintings. I appreciate my beneficial learning time. They beautifully well keep.
🖼️ ✨ 🎨"
Claire Mae Elizabeth Grange
"Beautiful palace. Inside there is a huge museum but I never had time to go inside. Must visit place."
zafar Khurshid
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kronverksky Embankment is easily accessible by public transport in Saint Petersburg. The nearest metro stations are Gorkovskaya and Admiralteyskaya. From there, it's a pleasant walk. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available.
Yes, the embankment is designed for walking and offers beautiful views. Comfortable shoes are highly recommended as you'll likely spend a good amount of time on your feet exploring the area and nearby attractions.
Absolutely! The Hermitage Museum is located directly adjacent to the embankment and Palace Square, making it a convenient starting or ending point for your visit.
Walking is often the best way to experience the grandeur of Saint Petersburg's central attractions, including the embankment and the Hermitage. For longer distances, the metro is efficient and affordable.
Yes, many Neva River boat tours offer views of the embankment and the Winter Palace from the water, providing a unique perspective of the city's architecture.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking along Kronverksky Embankment itself is free and open to the public. You only need tickets for attractions like the Hermitage Museum.
Ticket prices for the Hermitage Museum can vary. It's highly recommended to check the official Hermitage website for the most current pricing and to purchase tickets in advance to avoid long queues.
The Hermitage Museum typically has specific opening hours, which can change seasonally. Always verify the current hours on their official website before your visit.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or certain nationalities. Check the Hermitage's official ticketing page for details on eligibility and requirements.
While on-site ticket purchases might be possible, buying tickets online in advance is strongly advised to guarantee entry and save time, especially during busy periods.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire embankment offers stunning views of the Neva River and the Winter Palace. For iconic shots, position yourself with the palace as your backdrop, or capture the grandeur of Palace Square.
Photography is generally allowed in most halls of the Hermitage Museum for personal use, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artworks. Always check for specific signage in each gallery.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for exterior shots of the palace and embankment. Midday can be harsh, but the interiors of the palace are well-lit.
Drone usage is generally restricted in central Saint Petersburg, especially around historical landmarks like the Winter Palace, for security and preservation reasons. It's best to avoid bringing drones.
While not directly related to the embankment, some visitors enjoy dressing up for photos in Saint Petersburg. However, be mindful of local regulations and respect for historical sites.
🎫 🏛️ History & Culture
Kronverksky Embankment is part of the historic heart of Saint Petersburg, offering views of the former imperial residence, the Winter Palace, which was the seat of Russian emperors for centuries.
The Winter Palace was the primary residence of the Romanov dynasty. Exploring its state rooms provides a deep dive into their lives, power, and the grandeur of imperial Russia.
The Winter Palace and its history are often associated with the legend of Anastasia, the Grand Duchess. The romanticized stories have captured global imagination.
The Hermitage houses an immense collection spanning Western European art, ancient artifacts, Russian art, and much more, making it one of the largest and oldest museums in the world.
The Winter Palace is a prime example of Elizabethan Baroque architecture, characterized by its grandeur, ornate decorations, and imposing scale.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Winter Palace and Hermitage Museum
Inside, you'll find everything from ancient Egyptian mummies to masterpieces by Rembrandt and Leonardo da Vinci. The sheer scale of the collection means that even a full day might not be enough to see everything. Highlights include the Jordan Staircase, the Malachite Room, and the Throne Room. Many visitors recommend focusing on specific wings or periods to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Pro-tip: Consider purchasing a museum map or downloading the Hermitage app to navigate the vast halls more effectively. The museum's grandeur is truly breathtaking, offering a glimpse into Russia's imperial past and its rich artistic heritage.
The Charm of Kronverksky Embankment
This area is particularly enchanting during the White Nights in summer, when the city is bathed in perpetual twilight, creating a magical atmosphere. It's also a fantastic location for photography, with the river, the palace, and the surrounding historic buildings providing a dramatic backdrop. Many visitors find it a perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing, perhaps enjoying an ice cream or simply taking in the views.
While the embankment itself is about the ambiance and views, it serves as a gateway to many of Saint Petersburg's most significant landmarks. Its proximity to the Hermitage and Palace Square makes it an integral part of any central city itinerary.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit