Russia’s former capital, St. Petersburg, is the world’s most northerly city with a population over one million and a definite must-do on any travel fanatic’s check list. Given its long history and melting-pot of architectural influences, St. Petersburg simply oozes culture from its every street and square. And since the city is so close to the Arctic Circle, for two months of the year a visit here won’t be interrupted by nightfall - an eerie sun sits low in the sky around the clock, which is a memorable experience to say the least!
When the continuous daylight kicks in between late May to late July, the Russians like to throw a world-class party and everyone’s invited. The White Nights festival is primarily an arts and music event, with tickets to the Mariinsky Theatre and Concert Halls treating you to the best opera and ballet you’ll ever see (led by renowned conductor and artistic director Valery Gergiev, it’s best to book early since demand is usually through the roof).
St. Petersburg is a truly beautiful city and really comes alive during the White Nights. If you prefer urban cultural holidays and want to experience something entirely unique, you could do much worse than visit St. Petersburg between 21 May and 18 July.
Given the massive influx of revellers and the fact that the northern sun never sets, the White Nights festival is a great excuse for two months of solid partying, with some added hardcore partying on top. The Russians are excellent drinking partners (please don’t try to outdo them, they will wipe the floor with you) so while soaking up the sights and sounds of the city, you’re also sure to be soaking up large quantities of top-notch vodka in bars which never close. And yes, the women in Russia really are as attractive as you’ve heard (or learned through watching Bond movies).
The streets of St. Petersburg only return to normal when the sun finally sets in late July. Until then, artists and party-goers rule the city streets.
And the nights have never looked so bright…
Mariinsky Theatre
1 Theatre Square
St. Petersburg - Russia
Tel: +7 812 326 4141