Marly Palace
A baroque retreat inspired by French royalty, Marly Palace is a memorial museum to Peter the Great, set in stunning gardens.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Marly Palace
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A baroque retreat inspired by French royalty, Marly Palace is a memorial museum to Peter the Great, set in stunning gardens.
"A beautiful, elegant palace with a unique atmosphere, perfect for walks and contemplation."
Book tickets in advance
:admission_tickets: Secure your entry to Marly Palace and avoid queues, especially during peak season.
Wear comfortable shoes
:athletic_shoe: You'll be walking through the palace and the beautiful Marlinsky Garden.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Marly Palace Interior
Main Pavilion
Step back in time to Peter the Great's private museum, filled with his personal belongings and reflecting his unique taste.
Marlinsky Garden
Surrounding the Palace
Explore the exquisite geometry of ponds, bridges, and manicured gardens, a testament to baroque design and utilitarian beauty.
Great Pond Reflections
Central Pond
Witness the elegant palace mirrored in the transparent surface of the Great Pond, a picturesque scene perfect for contemplation.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Marly Palace
Navigating Marly Palace Grounds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book tickets in advance
:admission_tickets: Secure your entry to Marly Palace and avoid queues, especially during peak season.
Wear comfortable shoes
:athletic_shoe: You'll be walking through the palace and the beautiful Marlinsky Garden.
Explore the gardens
:deciduous_tree: The Marlinsky Garden's ponds and bridges are as stunning as the palace itself.
Visit with low expectations
:slightlysmilingface: Some visitors found palace staff to be less than welcoming.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book tickets in advance
:admission_tickets: Secure your entry to Marly Palace and avoid queues, especially during peak season.
Wear comfortable shoes
:athletic_shoe: You'll be walking through the palace and the beautiful Marlinsky Garden.
Explore the gardens
:deciduous_tree: The Marlinsky Garden's ponds and bridges are as stunning as the palace itself.
Visit with low expectations
:slightlysmilingface: Some visitors found palace staff to be less than welcoming.
Capture the reflections
:camerawithflash: The palace mirrored in the pond is a photographer's dream.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Marly Palace is cherished for its elegant baroque architecture and its serene setting within the Marlinsky Garden, offering a unique memorial museum experience dedicated to Peter the Great. Visitors appreciate the geometric ponds, bridges, and the picturesque reflections of the palace. However, some guests have noted less-than-ideal interactions with palace staff.
"In 1717, Peter I visited Marly-le-Roi, the residence of the French monarchs, located near Paris. Returning to St. Petersburg, the sovereign did not copy the French prototype, but only used some of the developments in the construction of his own residence. In 1723, a small pavilion-palace appeared in the western part of the Lower Park, named Marly by Peter in memory of his visit to the royal residence in France. The palace was originally intended for noble persons visiting Peterhof, but later acquired an exclusively memorial character. After the death of Peter I, a kind of museum was created in Marly, where the emperor's personal belongings were collected, which continue to be stored there to this day."
Павел
"Excellent geometry of internal ponds and bridges. Exquisite and simple. A very beautiful place. The palace was built according to Braunstein's design in 1720-1723. The history of the building's name began a little earlier than the structure itself appeared on the map. In 1717, Peter I went to the French monarch Louis XIV and visited his residence there, called "Marly le Roi". It became the prototype for the future palace."
Antonius
"For the first time I “found the time and energy” to “take pictures inside”... The interiors are beautiful, but the “staff” (workers) “turned out” (seemed) unusually rude. I understand how many “people like me” they see a day, but after the “Hermitage Pavilion”, with its wonderful workers, the mood turned out to be spoiled and I “interrupted the excursion”
“The Marly Palace received its name in memory of Peter I’s visit to the residence of the French kings in Marly-le-Roi near Paris in 1717,” quote
“The westernmost part of the Lower Park is occupied by the Marlinsky Garden, divided by the Great Pond into the Garden of Bacchus (located to the south of the pond) and the Garden of Venus (located on the northern side, closer to the sea). The gardens were laid out simultaneously with the construction of the Marly Palace and had utilitarian significance. In the Garden of Venus, fruits were grown for court meals. In the Garden of Bacchus, under Peter I, they intended to grow grapes,” quote"
Анатолий Гаврилов
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Marly Palace is located within the Peterhof complex. You can reach Peterhof by hydrofoil from St. Petersburg during the navigation season (May-October), which is a scenic and popular option. Alternatively, you can take a bus or marshrutka (minibus) from St. Petersburg to Peterhof. Once in Peterhof, Marly Palace is situated in the western part of the Lower Park, a pleasant walk from the main palace.
Marly Palace is often included in the general admission to Peterhof's Lower Park, but it's always best to check the official Peterhof website or ticket vendors for the most current information on what is included with your ticket. Some special exhibitions or access might require separate tickets.
Driving to Marly Palace is possible, but parking within the Peterhof complex can be limited and may incur fees. Public transport or hydrofoil is generally recommended for a more convenient experience, especially during peak tourist times.
The Peterhof complex is quite large. Walking is the most immersive way to explore the Lower Park and reach Marly Palace, allowing you to appreciate the gardens and fountains. There are also electric carts available for rent or guided tours that can help you navigate the grounds more efficiently.
Yes, Marly Palace is within the Peterhof Lower Park. If you are visiting other parts of Peterhof, you can walk through the park to reach Marly. Follow the signs for the Lower Park and head towards the westernmost section.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Marly Palace typically follows the opening hours of the Peterhof Lower Park. These hours can vary seasonally, so it's essential to check the official Peterhof website for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Generally, it's open from late morning to early evening during the warmer months.
Admission to Marly Palace is usually covered by the entrance fee for the Peterhof Lower Park. Prices can vary depending on the season and any special events. It's advisable to purchase tickets online in advance to save time and potentially money.
Yes, you can typically buy tickets for the Peterhof Lower Park, which includes access to Marly Palace, on-site. However, purchasing tickets in advance online is highly recommended to avoid long queues, especially during the summer season.
Discounts may be available for certain groups such as students, seniors, or children. Check the official Peterhof website for details on eligibility and required documentation. It's always worth inquiring about potential discounts when purchasing tickets.
The most reliable way to book tickets for Marly Palace and the Peterhof complex is through the official Peterhof State Museum Reserve website. This ensures you get legitimate tickets and can often secure them in advance, which is crucial during peak tourist seasons.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules can change, but historically, photography inside Marly Palace has been restricted or required a separate fee. Some visitors have reported being able to take photos, while others have had negative experiences with staff regarding this. It's best to check for signage upon entry or ask a staff member for clarification.
The exterior of Marly Palace, especially its reflection in the Great Pond, is incredibly photogenic. The surrounding Marlinsky Garden, with its ponds, bridges, and manicured landscapes, also offers numerous beautiful angles for photography.
Yes, drone usage is generally prohibited within the Peterhof complex, including areas around Marly Palace, to protect the historical structures and the visitor experience. Always adhere to local regulations regarding drone operation.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – can offer beautiful lighting for exterior shots. Midday can be harsh, but the reflections in the pond can still be striking. Weekday mornings offer fewer people in your shots.
Professional photoshoots may require special permits and advance arrangements. It's best to contact the Peterhof administration directly to inquire about their policies and procedures for professional photography sessions.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
Marly Palace is celebrated as a unique memorial museum dedicated to Peter the Great, housing his personal belongings. It's also admired for its elegant baroque architecture and its picturesque setting within the Marlinsky Garden, featuring geometric ponds and bridges.
To fully appreciate Marly Palace and its surrounding gardens, allocate at least 1-2 hours. This allows time to explore the interior, wander through the Marlinsky Garden, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Guided tours are often available for the Peterhof complex, which may include Marly Palace. Check the official Peterhof website or inquire on-site for tour schedules and languages. Some tours might offer deeper historical insights.
As a historical monument, Marly Palace itself has limited amenities. However, within the broader Peterhof complex, you can find restrooms, cafes, and souvenir shops. It's advisable to use facilities before entering the palace grounds if needed.
Both Marly Palace and the Hermitage Pavilion are located in Peterhof's Lower Park and were designed for royal relaxation. Marly Palace is a memorial museum of Peter the Great's belongings, while the Hermitage Pavilion was designed for intimate, private gatherings and dining, offering a different kind of royal retreat.
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👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Royal Inspiration Behind Marly Palace
The palace, built between 1720 and 1723 by architect Johann Braunstein, was initially intended to host distinguished guests visiting Peterhof. Over time, it evolved into a more personal space, a memorial to Peter the Great himself. After his death, it was transformed into a museum, preserving his personal effects and offering a rare glimpse into the life of the Tsar. This transformation underscores its dual role as a place of royal leisure and a repository of historical memory.
Exploring the Marlinsky Garden: A Baroque Masterpiece
These gardens were not merely ornamental; they served a utilitarian purpose. The Garden of Venus was dedicated to growing fruits for the imperial court's meals, while the Garden of Bacchus was intended for viticulture under Peter the Great. Today, visitors can stroll along the pedestrian paths, admire the elegant bridges, and appreciate the harmonious blend of nature and design that makes this area a tranquil escape.
Visitor Experiences and Staff Interactions
It's important to note that these experiences may not be universal, and many visitors still find the palace and its grounds to be a 'paradise,' especially when tourist flow is low.
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