City Parks in the Center of Saint Petersburg
Summer Garden
The Summer Garden with its sculptures, ponds and fountains is one of the most famous parks in the historic part of the city. Take a walk the same way the Russian Tsars, poets, musicians and well-known architects did centuries ago. Regrettably, after the latest reconstruction, they’ve put up many protective fences in an effort to stop people walking on the grass. As a result, some visitors may find the Summer Garden atmosphere a bit restrictive.
Tauride Garden
The Tauride Garden (Tavricheskiy) is another lovely park in the city. Laid out in a truly romantic style, Tauride Garden is a very beautiful and peaceful place, perfect to escape from the hustle and bustle of the busy streets. It is more spacious than the Summer Garden. The park is an enjoyable place to relax on the grass, engage in sports, walk dogs and push prams.
Parks on the Outskirts of Saint Petersburg
Park of the 300th Anniversary of Saint Petersburg
If you’d like to feel the sea breeze on the shore of the Gulf of Finland, go to the Park of 300th Anniversary of Saint Petersburg (it is located nearby Begovaya metro station). Here you can stroll along the embankment and enjoy the view of the sea. You will also see the new football stadium and the magnificent Lakhta Tower, the highest skyscraper in Europe.
Kirov Central Park
Kirov Central Park, located on Elagin Island, is truly loved by locals. Here you can rent a boat and glide along the canals or visit the "Divo Ostrov" amusement park with your kids. The park is especially beautiful at the end of spring with all its flowers blooming.
Saint Petersburg Suburbs
Peterhof
Saint Petersburg has many beautiful suburbs that are worth seeing. Most of them used to be summer residences of different Russian Tsars.
Of course, the real treasure is Peterhof. With its fountains and the Grand Peterhof Palace, it is a sight to behold. However, it can often get crowded during the tourist season.
Pavlovsk
Another option is the park in Pavlovsk. The layout of the park is more natural and there are less people there than in Peterhof. Bring some nuts with you: there is a good chance you may see squirrels and get to hand-feed them!
