A Northern European cruise itinerary takes you along the wonders of northern Europe all the way to St. Petersburg, Russia. A stop in this Russian city is often an overnight port of call for our Europe cruise itineraries, and that gives you a myriad of St. Petersburg shore excursions in which you can partake.
One of the cultural cornerstones of St. Petersburg is the ballet, and while in port there you can do a cruise tour that’s focused on this graceful art. Which type of excursion you can do depends on how long your ship is docked there. Itineraries with an overnight in port can do one of our Evenings Around the World, one of the top St. Petersburg cruise excursions that lets you have dinner in the city and then watch a ballet performance in Mariinsky Theatre before retiring to the comfort of your ship.
If you’re looking for day-time options, you can still tour the theater to see where the ballet performances occur and learn more about the history of dance in St. Petersburg.
Other popular St. Petersburg shore excursions center around the architecture and historic sites of the city. Those who are intrigued by building design or enjoy touring historic churches can’t miss a visit to the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood. This church was built at the turn of the 20th century and stands out due to its balloon-shaped steeples and colorful facade.
Another architectural feat to behold is Peterhof Palace, a grand palace commissioned by Peter the Great in the 18th century dubbed the “Russian Versailles.”
St. Petersburg is also known for its hearty cuisine and high-end vodka. On Chef’s Market Discoveries shore excursions, you’ll be whisked away on a culinary-focused day of visiting local markets, a vodka tasting, and a private dinner.
Those who want to explore beyond the city center will enjoy one of the St. Petersburg shore excursions that take visitors to Pushkin, home to the Tsarskoye Selo palace complex and parks.
Whether you choose to stay in the city or escape to the palatial countryside, a shore excursion is sure to give you an engaging and cultural day in port.
With the safety of our guests and crew always our top priority, we are removing St. Petersburg, Russia from upcoming itineraries in 2024, due to the current situation in Ukraine. Our thoughts are with all who are impacted by this conflict.