St Petersburg

The welcoming introduction to the vast nation of Russia, the historic city of St Petersburg blends ancient charm and spectacular natural surroundings in equal measure. A city that has played host to pivotal moments global history, Tolstoy, Dostoyevsky, Tchaikovsky and Lenin called St Petersburg home in various periods of time, as well as being the epicentre for world-changing events, such as the Russian Revolution and a Nazi siege.

Even so, while few European cities offer so much intrigue from a bygone era, St Petersburg has more to enjoy beyond its past with the modern day city enjoying a thriving reputation for exciting nightlife and premium shopping, while the surrounding suburban palaces of Peterhof and Gatchina, as well as the pretty Lake Ladoga, offer an enticing diversion beyond the centre.