Rivers and Canals of St. Petersburg

All of the greatest cities of European Russia have since their foundation been intimately associated with the rivers that they adjoin. For most visitors to Russia, its rivers are noticed only while crossing a bridge or strolling along an embankment, as pleasant backdrops to sights that command more attention. To experience St. Petersburg only from the land, however, is to miss a central feature of its character.

St. Petersburg was built on the delta of the River Neva by Peter the Great to rival Venice and is spread out over numerous islands of varying sizes frequently prompting the nickname the “City of 101 Islands”. Over the centuries numerous bridges with lace cast-iron fences and beautiful embankments were built to connect these islands across the various tributaries of the Neva and the city’s many canals (Moika, Fontanka, Kanal Griboyedova, etc.). During the summer months when the river isn’t frozen, the bridges across the main river Neva open at night to allow ships to pass up and down the river. This way, St. Petersburg has secured its reputation as the most beautiful city in the country.

City tour by boat is the fastest and the most pleasant way of exploring the attractions of St. Petersburg. You will be charmed by the ancient architectural panorama, gardens, museum complexes of the Hermitage, the Summer Palace of Peter the Great, St. Isaac’s cathedral and the Church of Resurrection of Jesus Christ.