Saint Petersburg: City of Cathedrals, Culture & Canals

Saint Petersburg in Russia is an amazing destination any time of the year, but the northern capital of the country comes into its own in summer when it displays its regal splendour in all its glory. With its numerous palaces, museums, cathedrals and canals, Saint Petersburg offers an unparalleled wealth of discoveries to visitors.

- VARSHA SINGH

Depending on where they come from, people tend to call it by different names, the 'Venice of North', the 'City of White Nights' or the 'Northern Palmyra' or the 'Cradle of Three Revolutions'. While how they relate to the city may differ, but all visitors, irrespective of their origin, do agree that it is by far the most beautiful city in Europe and the continent's cultural capital.

This is Saint Petersburg, the 'Northern Capital of Russia', the real home of the treasures of Russia's golden era under the Tsars. India Outbound was invited to explore Saint Petersburg as part of a visit to Russia to attend the 5th Annual Convention of the Outbound Tour Operators Association of India (OTOAI).

The city's regal aura and splendour becomes evident right from the moment we reach the city at Moskovsky Railway Station, aboard the Sapsan, the Russian high speed trains that cover the distance of 645 km in less than four hours. The station, one of the oldest in Saint Petersburg and in Russia, was built in 1851 and resembles European townhall of the 12th and 13th centuries, with a large central clocktower as the focal point of the building and false arcades on the ground floor. The facade of the building has been preserved so well that even after 175 years of constant operation, it is a sight to behold.

A city custom-built to fall in love with

Going around Saint Petersburg, by vehicle, on foot or by boat, gives one an impression that the city was built for people to fall in love with. Its countless treasures, ranging from palaces, museums and theatres to parks and canals, have made the city a top world heritage centre that attracts millions of visitors from all over the globe.

State Hermitage Museum