
Hermitage Pavilion Peterhof
A charming 18th-century 'place of solitude' in Peterhof, featuring a unique lifting table and elegant interiors.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Hermitage Pavilion Peterhof
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming 18th-century 'place of solitude' in Peterhof, featuring a unique lifting table and elegant interiors.
"It's worth entering and exploring from the inside, with beautiful views through the windows. "

Book tickets online
:admission_tickets: Avoid long queues by purchasing your tickets in advance.
Consider weekday visits
:calendar: Weekdays offer a more relaxed experience with fewer visitors.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Lifting Table
Main Hall
Witness a marvel of 18th-century engineering: a table that rises from the floor, once used for private dining.

Intricate Interior
Throughout the Pavilion
Explore the richly decorated rooms of this 'place of solitude,' designed for intimate gatherings and relaxation.

Picturesque Park Views
Windows
Enjoy charming vistas of the surrounding park and water features through the pavilion's elegant windows.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Ticket Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book tickets online
:admission_tickets: Avoid long queues by purchasing your tickets in advance.
Consider weekday visits
:calendar: Weekdays offer a more relaxed experience with fewer visitors.
Explore the park
:walking: Enjoy the beautiful surroundings and views from the pavilion's windows.
Lifting table schedule
:clock: The table operates on weekends at 1, 2, and 3 PM.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book tickets online
:admission_tickets: Avoid long queues by purchasing your tickets in advance.
Consider weekday visits
:calendar: Weekdays offer a more relaxed experience with fewer visitors.
Explore the park
:walking: Enjoy the beautiful surroundings and views from the pavilion's windows.
Lifting table schedule
:clock: The table operates on weekends at 1, 2, and 3 PM.
Evening visits are quieter
:moon: After 6 PM, the pavilion becomes much less crowded.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Hermitage Pavilion for its unique 18th-century engineering, particularly the fascinating lifting table, and its charming interior. The beautiful park views from its windows are also a highlight. Some find the entrance fee a bit high for the limited exhibits, and information from curators can be superficial.
"Retreat house, as it is called, is a stunning building where you can enter via a small bridge. Really interesting interior and set up inside.
Table that is centerpiece of the house is a set up for a feast and has interesting mechanism that I have never seen anywhere before.
It is worth to enter and explore from the inside.
Beautiful views through the windows inside to both sides of the park."
Anamarija Čavlović
"On weekends the lifting table works at 1, 2 and 3 P.M."
Александр Воеводский
"In Europe, small palaces, called "places of solitude", were very popular. They were often two-story buildings, with a kitchen on the first floor and a dining room on the second, where the owners received their guests for dinner. In 1721, Peter ordered something similar to be built in Peterhof, the pavilion was called the "Hermitage"."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hermitage Pavilion is located in the Peterhof complex, accessible by various means. From St. Petersburg, you can take a hydrofoil to Peterhof during the navigation season, or use public transport like buses or marshrutkas. Within Peterhof, it's a pleasant walk through the park.
Yes, the Hermitage Pavilion is a distinct structure within the Lower Park of Peterhof, often marked on maps. Follow the signs for the palace and park ensemble.
While there is parking available at Peterhof, it's generally recommended to use public transport or hydrofoils to reach the park itself, as driving within the park is restricted.
The most scenic and efficient way is often by hydrofoil from the Hermitage embankment. Alternatively, buses and marshrutkas are available from various metro stations.
While some TikTok videos hint at 'secret ways,' it's best to use the official entrance to ensure a smooth visit and avoid any issues.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for the Hermitage Pavilion can vary, but it's generally around 400 rubles. Some sources mention a 100 ruble ticket, which might be for specific exhibits or tours. Booking online is advised.
It is highly recommended to buy tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long queues at the ticket office.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Peterhof website for the most up-to-date information. Generally, it's open during park hours.
Some sources mention free entry to certain areas or at specific times, like 'up to June 15th, entry is free' for the palace square, but this may not apply to the pavilion itself. Always verify current policies.
Yes, guided tours are often offered, though they may come at an additional cost. Inquire at the entrance or check the official website for tour availability and pricing.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The most unique feature is the 'lifting table,' a remarkable 18th-century mechanism that allows the dining table to be raised from the floor.
Many visitors find it worth the entrance fee for its unique interior and historical significance as a 'place of solitude.'
A visit to the pavilion itself is relatively short, perhaps 30-60 minutes, depending on how much you want to absorb. However, it's part of the larger Peterhof complex, which can take a full day.
The famous Peacock Clock is located in the Grand Assembly Hall of the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, not in the Peterhof Hermitage Pavilion. The pavilion at Peterhof is a separate historical site.
The windows offer beautiful and serene views of the surrounding park and water features, providing a tranquil contrast to the palace's interior.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules can vary. It's always best to check for signage or ask staff upon entry. Some areas might restrict flash photography.
The lifting table is a unique photo opportunity. The elegant interiors and the views from the windows also make for great shots.
Absolutely! The entire Peterhof park is incredibly picturesque, with fountains, gardens, and the Gulf of Finland providing stunning backdrops.
A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is sufficient for most visitors. If you have a DSLR, bring a wide-angle lens to capture the interiors and a telephoto for park details.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in and around historical sites like Peterhof to protect the monuments and ensure visitor safety. Always check local regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the outdoor attractions of Peterhof, like the water jets and open spaces for running around. The lifting table inside the pavilion could spark curiosity in older children interested in how things work, but younger ones might find it less engaging than the grand outdoor displays.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for online deals or consider visiting during the shoulder seasons when prices might be lower. Packing your own snacks and water can also help save money, as on-site food options can be pricier.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for weekday visits or early mornings to capture shots without large crowds. The natural light filtering through the pavilion's windows can create beautiful atmospheric photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Hermitage Pavilion
Peter's vision for the 'Hermitage' in Peterhof was to create a secluded retreat, distinct from the grandeur of the main palace. It embodies the era's fascination with private spaces for intellectual and social pursuits, away from the formal court life. The pavilion's design and function reflect this desire for a more personal and exclusive environment.
Today, the pavilion stands as a testament to this historical trend, offering visitors a glimpse into the private lives and tastes of the Russian aristocracy during the 18th century. Its unique features, like the ingenious lifting table, highlight the era's blend of luxury and innovative engineering.
Experiencing the Lifting Table
This feature was designed to maintain the utmost privacy for Peter the Great and his guests. The ability to serve a feast without interruption underscored the exclusive nature of the 'place of solitude' concept. It was a sophisticated solution for intimate dining experiences, reflecting the era's desire for both luxury and discretion.
Visitors can witness this fascinating mechanism in action on weekends at specific times: 1 PM, 2 PM, and 3 PM. Seeing the table rise is a unique experience that brings the pavilion's history to life, offering a tangible connection to the past.
Beyond the Pavilion: Exploring Peterhof
Don't miss the iconic Grand Cascade, a breathtaking display of waterworks that tumbles down to the Gulf of Finland. Exploring the various palaces, such as the Grand Palace and the Monplaisir Palace, offers a deeper understanding of the Romanov dynasty's opulent lifestyle.
For a different perspective, consider visiting the Oranienbaum palace and park ensemble, often cited as a less crowded alternative to Peterhof and Tsarskoye Selo, offering a unique historical experience.



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