Summary
Palace Square, 2, Sankt-Peterburg, Russia, 190000
Phone +7 812 710-90-79
Even from the outside, the Winter Palace of St. Petersburg stands as an imposing structure, adorned in a mint green hue that shines brightly under clear summer skies and looks stunning against the deep, white snow of winter. Once the residence of Russian Emperors from 1732 to 1917, the Winter Palace currently hosts the Russian State Hermitage Museum, which ranks as the second-largest museum globally.
Why the Hermitage Museum Deserves a Visit
The Hermitage Museum is undeniably one of Russia’s most significant cultural monuments. Nestled within the former royal palace, it boasts the largest collection of Russian and foreign art in the country. Whether you choose to spend one day, two days, or even longer, few other locations in the world provide an opportunity for such an expansive cultural experience.
There are also practical reasons for visiting the Hermitage Museum. St. Petersburg endures severe cold for more than half the year, and encounters frequent rain during other seasons. As such, a visit to the Hermitage Museum offers a comfortable refuge from the elements, ensuring that you enjoy the rich contents it has to offer. Furthermore, the museum is centrally located near other attractions, including Vasilevsky Island, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, and the Church of Our Savior on Spilled Blood.
Essential Information About the Hermitage Museum
Opening hours: The State Hermitage Museum opens at 10:30 a.m. from Tuesday to Sunday and closes at 6 p.m. on all days except Wednesday and Friday, when it remains open until 9 p.m.
Ticket price: Admission to the museum ranges from 300 to 700 Russian rubles, with free entry on the third Thursday of each month.
Access: Positioned at the western end of St. Petersburg’s main Nevsky Prospekt Avenue, the Hermitage Museum is conveniently accessible by foot from many hotels and attractions located in central St. Petersburg. Additionally, public buses connect all railway stations to the museum.
Exhibitions at the Hermitage Museum
The State Hermitage Museum is home to an impressive 39 permanent exhibitions. Highlights include:
- Flemish painting
- Russian culture and art of the 18th century
- The art of Japan
- The culture of Ancient Egypt
- The culture of the peoples of South Siberia
- Russian interior decoration
Moreover, the museum features numerous limited exhibitions that change annually, ensuring that there is always something new to discover and enjoy during your visit.
How to Get Tickets to the Hermitage Museum
Tickets to the Hermitage Museum can be purchased at the entrance, with prices ranging from 300 to 700 rubles. However, if your trip to St. Petersburg occurs during the peak months from May to September, it is advisable to consider purchasing tickets in advance online.
Two ticket options are available: a one-day ticket granting access to the main complex, or a two-day ticket covering all museums operated by the Hermitage in St. Petersburg. Advanced purchase tickets include fees for using cameras or video equipment. You will receive a voucher to exchange for admission tickets (after presenting proof of identity, so be sure to bring your passport or another form of ID) upon entry.
Other Tips for Visiting the Hermitage Museum
If you wish to experience a guided tour of the museum, verify tour schedules in advance through the Tour Bureau of the Hermitage. The museum offers pre-scheduled tours in multiple languages. While a guided tour is not necessary for a general visit, it becomes mandatory if you plan to view the Treasure Gallery.
Keep in mind that certain rooms in the State Hermitage Museum may occasionally be closed to the public for maintenance. If you are concerned about missing a specific exhibit, check the Hermitage’s website for their schedule of closings. The site also features a calendar of events and exhibitions, which may assist you in planning your visit effectively.
