Peter and Paul Cathedral
The first and oldest landmark in St. Petersburg, this Baroque cathedral is the imperial burial site and an iconic symbol of the city.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Peter and Paul Cathedral
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The first and oldest landmark in St. Petersburg, this Baroque cathedral is the imperial burial site and an iconic symbol of the city.
"The golden spire reaches towards the sky, creating an iconic silhouette of the city."
Combine Fortress & Cathedral
A combined ticket often covers both the fortress and cathedral, offering great value. :admission_tickets:
Learn History Beforehand
Reading up on the Czars enhances appreciation for the imperial burial site. :books:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Golden Spire
Peter and Paul Fortress
An iconic silhouette of St. Petersburg, this towering golden spire is a breathtaking sight.
Imperial Burial Site
Cathedral Interior
See the tombs of nearly all Russian emperors and empresses, a somber yet historically significant experience.
Baroque Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Admire the intricate Baroque design, a testament to early 18th-century Russian imperial grandeur.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Tickets and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Combine Fortress & Cathedral
A combined ticket often covers both the fortress and cathedral, offering great value. :admission_tickets:
Learn History Beforehand
Reading up on the Czars enhances appreciation for the imperial burial site. :books:
Summer is Ideal
Visit in summer for the best weather and longer daylight hours. :sunwithface:
Student Discounts Available
Bring your student ID for potential discounts on admission. :student:
Tips
from all over the internet
Combine Fortress & Cathedral
A combined ticket often covers both the fortress and cathedral, offering great value. :admission_tickets:
Learn History Beforehand
Reading up on the Czars enhances appreciation for the imperial burial site. :books:
Summer is Ideal
Visit in summer for the best weather and longer daylight hours. :sunwithface:
Student Discounts Available
Bring your student ID for potential discounts on admission. :student:
Capture the Spire
The golden spire is a must-photograph landmark. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Peter and Paul Cathedral for its stunning Baroque architecture and its profound historical significance as the imperial burial site. The golden spire is a highlight, offering iconic views of St. Petersburg. However, some find the interior can be crowded, making it difficult to fully absorb the history without prior research.
"It was summer when we visited. The better time to go indeed.
==
This Peter and Paul Cathedral is one of the most splendid church in the St. Petersburg area, in my mere opinion. As it used more green lightings on the ceilings that were to my taste. It gives the church a special green tone that is rare among others in the Northern or Eastern Europe.
And it was included in the admission ticket of the Peter and Paul Fortress."
joe host
"I really love the ambiance and the view. Napakaganda rin ng simoy ng hangin. The bells are also great to hear. I only visit Number 1 to 11 for 400 rubles (student). You can also try other museums, they have a very kind staff."
mary kristine joy bitoon
"The oldest church in St Peterburg and a significant landmark. Built in 1712 to 1733, the cathedral is an imperial burial site and houses the remains of almost all the Russian emperors and empresses from Peter the Great to Nicholas II and his family"
CK Cheong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Peter and Paul Cathedral is located within the Peter and Paul Fortress on Zayachy Island. You can reach it by metro to Gorkovskaya station, followed by a walk or a short bus/trolleybus ride. Many visitors also opt for boat tours that stop near the fortress.
Yes, public transport is a convenient way to reach the Peter and Paul Fortress. The nearest metro station is Gorkovskaya. From there, it's a pleasant walk across the Trinity Bridge.
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in St. Petersburg and can drop you off near the entrance of the Peter and Paul Fortress. This is a comfortable option, especially if you have mobility concerns.
Absolutely! Many Neva River boat tours include a stop or pass by the Peter and Paul Fortress, offering unique views of the cathedral's spire from the water. This is a popular way to see multiple landmarks.
Approaching from the Trinity Bridge offers stunning panoramic views of the fortress and cathedral, especially at sunset. Walking through the fortress grounds allows you to fully appreciate its scale and history.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Peter and Paul Cathedral is often included in a combined ticket for the Peter and Paul Fortress. Prices can vary, but expect around 800 RUB for a combined ticket, with student discounts available.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist season (summer) to avoid long queues. Combined tickets for the fortress are often available online.
The combined ticket typically grants access to the Peter and Paul Cathedral, the Trubetskoy Bastion prison, the Grand Ducal Burial Chapel, and other museums within the fortress complex. Check the official website for the most current inclusions.
Yes, student discounts are often available upon presentation of a valid student ID. It's always a good idea to inquire about any other potential discounts when purchasing your ticket.
Opening hours can vary seasonally and may differ for the fortress and the cathedral itself. Generally, it's open daily from around 10 AM to 6 PM, but it's best to check the official Peter and Paul Fortress website for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find the stunning Baroque interior, the tombs of Russian royalty from Peter the Great to Nicholas II, and impressive iconography. The green-toned lighting is a unique feature noted by visitors.
Yes, it is the imperial burial site for almost all Russian emperors and empresses from Peter the Great to Nicholas II. It's a significant historical location. 
To fully appreciate the cathedral and its history, allocate at least 1-2 hours. If you plan to explore the entire Peter and Paul Fortress, you'll need several hours.
It can get quite crowded, especially during peak season. Visitors suggest reading up on the history beforehand to better absorb the significance of the tombs amidst the crowds.
Photography policies can change, but generally, interior photography might be restricted or require an additional fee. It's best to check signage upon arrival or ask a staff member.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior, especially the golden spire against a blue sky, is iconic. The Neva River embankment offers great vantage points. Inside, focus on architectural details if photography is permitted.
Early morning or late afternoon during the 'golden hour' provides beautiful lighting for exterior shots. Summer evenings offer long daylight for extended photo opportunities.
Interior photography may be restricted or require a separate ticket. Always check for signs or ask staff before taking pictures inside.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the grandeur of the cathedral's exterior and spire. For interior shots, a camera with good low-light performance is beneficial.
Drone usage is generally restricted in historical city centers and near major landmarks like the Peter and Paul Fortress due to airspace regulations. It's advisable to avoid flying drones here.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for interactive exhibits within the fortress that might appeal to children. The boat tours that pass by the fortress can also be a fun way to see the cathedral's exterior without the need for extensive walking. Pack snacks and water, as amenities within the fortress can be limited.
🏛️ History Buffs
Beyond the cathedral, the fortress itself is steeped in history, having served as a political prison and a key military stronghold. Exploring the various museums within the fortress, such as the Trubetskoy Bastion, will provide a comprehensive understanding of its multifaceted past.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1While interior photography might be restricted, if permitted, focus on the intricate Baroque details, the grandeur of the tombs, and the unique green-toned lighting that some visitors have noted. The surrounding fortress also offers numerous picturesque spots for capturing St. Petersburg's architectural beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Russian Imperial History
+1Beyond its architectural splendor, the cathedral holds profound historical significance as the final resting place for almost all Russian emperors and empresses from Peter the Great to Nicholas II. Visitors can pay their respects at the tombs, a deeply moving experience that offers a tangible connection to centuries of Russian history. The recent burial of Nicholas II and his family in 1998 further underscores the cathedral's role as a repository of national memory.
Exploring the cathedral offers a unique opportunity to understand the evolution of the Russian monarchy and the dramatic shifts in its history. The solemnity of the burial site, combined with the opulent Baroque design, creates a powerful atmosphere that resonates with visitors seeking to delve into Russia's rich and complex heritage.
Navigating the Peter and Paul Fortress
When planning your visit, consider purchasing a combined ticket for the fortress, which often includes entry to the cathedral and other key attractions. This is generally more cost-effective than buying individual tickets. The fortress is quite large, so wear comfortable shoes and allow ample time to explore its various sections.
Many visitors enjoy walking along the Neva River embankment adjacent to the fortress, which provides excellent views of the cathedral's spire and the city skyline. Boat tours frequently stop near the fortress, offering a different perspective of its imposing architecture.
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