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Winter Palace
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The Winter Palace in St. Petersburg is a monumental masterpiece of Russian Baroque architecture and served for over 150 years as the sumptuous main residence of the Russian Tsars. Built between 1754 and 1762 by Bartolomeo Rastrelli, the emerald-green and white palace stretches majestically along the Neva River embankment, dominating the massive Palace Square. Inside, hundreds of opulently decorated halls, adorned with tons of gold, Karelian birch, malachite, and lapis lazuli, bear witness to the unfathomable wealth of the Romanov Empire. In 1917, the palace became the scene of the dramatic climax of the Russian Revolution when Bolshevik troops stormed the building and arrested the Provisional Government. Today, the Winter Palace is the centerpiece of the Hermitage, one of the largest and most prestigious art museums in the world, housing millions of priceless masterpieces.
- Location: Russia
- Top sights: Winter Palace · Hermitage Museum · Gardens of the Winter Palace
- Nearby: Staraya Derevnya (9 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -9 | -8 | -3 | 4 | 11 | 15 | 18 | 17 | 12 | 5 | -1 | -6 |
| Rain mm | 49 | 41 | 43 | 52 | 69 | 90 | 98 | 98 | 63 | 73 | 66 | 58 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Winter Palace is part of the Hermitage, one of the world's most famous museums. It can be visited during opening hours, with entry through the main entrance on Palace Square.
Typical hours
The Hermitage is typically open from 10:30 to 18:00, closed on Mondays and January 1. On evenings with extended hours until 21:00, entry is often cheaper.
Photography
Photography is allowed in most halls without flash or tripod. Some temporary exhibitions may have photography bans; watch for signs.
Time needed
Allow at least 3 to 4 hours for a first overview of the main works. For art lovers, a full day or even several days may be needed.
Combine with
Combine the visit with a walk on Palace Square and to the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood. Nevsky Prospect and the Peter and Paul Fortress are also easily reachable.
Getting there
The Winter Palace is located on Palace Square in central St. Petersburg. The nearest metro station is 'Admiralteyskaya'; buses and taxis also stop nearby.
Insider tip
Purchase your entry tickets online in advance to avoid long queues. Start your visit on the second floor, home to the world-famous Impressionist collection.
Geography
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Winter Palace (6)
Alexander Column
Victory column in Saint Petersburg, Russia, erected in 1834.
Palace Bridge
Viewpoint on Palace Bridge, which spans the Neva River.
1-i Zimnii most
Bridge in Russia, crossing the Winter Canal.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to wait to get in?
In peak season, often over an hour; online tickets shorten the time.
How many days do I need for the Hermitage?
One day is hardly enough; plan focus points so as not to be overwhelmed.
Can I bring bags inside?
Large bags must be checked in the cloakroom; small handbags are usually allowed.
Is the museum suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, there are elevators and accessible entrances to most areas.
What is the best time to visit?
Right at opening in the morning or later in the evening on late-opening days.
Winter Palace: where is it located?
Winter Palace is located in Russia.
Winter Palace: what is there to see?
Highlights include Winter Palace, Hermitage Museum, Gardens of the Winter Palace.
Winter Palace: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
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