Bank Bridge Saint Petersburg
A charming pedestrian bridge guarded by golden griffins, offering picturesque canal views and a glimpse of Kazan Cathedral.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds for photos
Bank Bridge Saint Petersburg
Best Time
Fewer crowds for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming pedestrian bridge guarded by golden griffins, offering picturesque canal views and a glimpse of Kazan Cathedral.
"Must visit bridge with beautiful views to Kazan Cathedral and Savior on the Spilled Blood."
🎯 Early Bird Gets the Shot
Visit at dawn for crowd-free photos of the griffins and canal.
🚶♀️ Walkable Location
Easily accessible from Nevsky Prospekt and Kazan Cathedral.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Golden-Winged Griffins
Both ends of the bridge
Admire the majestic, golden-winged griffon sculptures by Pavel Sokolov, guardians of the bridge.
Canal Views
Center of the bridge
Enjoy picturesque views of the Griboedov Canal and surrounding historic architecture.
Kazan Cathedral Vista
Southern end of the bridge
Catch a glimpse of the stunning Kazan Cathedral from this unique vantage point.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Photos
Location & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Early Bird Gets the Shot
Visit at dawn for crowd-free photos of the griffins and canal.
🚶♀️ Walkable Location
Easily accessible from Nevsky Prospekt and Kazan Cathedral.
📸 Narrowest Bridge Charm
Appreciate its unique status as one of the city's narrowest pedestrian bridges.
✨ Evening Ambiance
Experience the bridge illuminated by city lights for a magical feel.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Early Bird Gets the Shot
Visit at dawn for crowd-free photos of the griffins and canal.
🚶♀️ Walkable Location
Easily accessible from Nevsky Prospekt and Kazan Cathedral.
📸 Narrowest Bridge Charm
Appreciate its unique status as one of the city's narrowest pedestrian bridges.
✨ Evening Ambiance
Experience the bridge illuminated by city lights for a magical feel.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Bank Bridge as a must-see landmark, highlighting its beautiful griffins and picturesque canal views. Many recommend an early morning visit to avoid crowds and capture the best photos. While the bridge itself is a brief stop, its charm and historical significance make it a memorable part of exploring St. Petersburg.
"A must visit bridge and have beautiful views to Kazan Cathedral and Savior on the Spilled Blood"
A. M. A.
"Must see. Awesome viewpoint"
Oleg Borisov
"Must visit. Good view of the canal. Nice Griffins."
Jabar Singh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bank Bridge is easily reached on foot from Nevsky Prospekt, a main thoroughfare. It's a short walk from Kazan Cathedral and near the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, making it a convenient stop on a walking tour of central St. Petersburg.
While there isn't a direct metro station to the bridge itself, you can take the metro to Gostiny Dvor or Nevsky Prospekt stations and then enjoy a pleasant walk to the bridge.
Walking is highly recommended to soak in the atmosphere of the Griboedov Canal and discover nearby landmarks like Kazan Cathedral and the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Bank Bridge is a public pedestrian bridge and is free to access at any time.
As an outdoor public space, Bank Bridge is accessible 24/7. However, for the best experience and views, visiting during daylight hours or early evening is recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
For the most iconic shots without crowds, aim for early morning, especially around sunrise. Evenings offer a magical ambiance with city lights.
The golden-winged griffon sculptures are the main draw for photographers, along with the charming views of the Griboedov Canal.
Try capturing the griffins from both ends of the bridge and frame the canal views. A shot including Kazan Cathedral from the southern end is also highly recommended.
Drone usage in St. Petersburg is subject to strict regulations. It's advisable to check current local laws and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone near Bank Bridge or any other city landmarks.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
From Bank Bridge, you get lovely views of the Griboedov Canal, the historic buildings lining its banks, and a notable perspective of Kazan Cathedral.
It can get quite busy, especially during peak tourist seasons and times. Visiting early in the morning is the best way to avoid crowds.
The griffins are iconic sculptures created by Pavel Sokolov. They are believed to guard the bridge and are a symbol of wealth and power, referencing the former Assignation Bank nearby.
A visit to Bank Bridge itself is quite brief, perhaps 15-30 minutes to admire the griffins and take photos. However, it's often combined with exploring the surrounding area, which can take much longer.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine your visit with a stroll along the Griboedov Canal, where kids can enjoy watching boats and the general bustle of the city. The nearby Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, with its vibrant mosaics, is also a fantastic and engaging stop for families.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
To get those coveted shots without crowds, an early morning visit is essential. Golden hour light can create stunning effects on the griffins and the water. Consider different focal lengths to capture both the grand scale of the canal and the intricate details of the sculptures.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Griffins of Bank Bridge
Many visitors are captivated by the sheer artistry and symbolism of these sculptures. The griffins' powerful forms and gleaming gold wings create a dramatic visual impact, especially when bathed in sunlight or illuminated at night. They are a key reason why Bank Bridge is considered one of the most beautiful pedestrian bridges in St. Petersburg.
When visiting, take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship. The way the wings are spread and the fierce yet elegant expressions on their faces are truly remarkable. They add a touch of fantasy and grandeur to the urban landscape, making the bridge a unique and memorable landmark.
Navigating St. Petersburg's Canals
The Griboedov Canal itself is a historic artery, lined with beautiful buildings, churches, and bridges. Walking along its embankments allows you to discover hidden courtyards, charming cafes, and stunning architectural ensembles. Bank Bridge, with its distinctive griffins, is a highlight of this canal-side exploration.
For a comprehensive experience, consider a boat tour that navigates these canals. Many tours depart from central locations and offer commentary on the history and landmarks visible from the water. This provides a different, often more relaxed, way to appreciate the city's beauty and understand the role of its waterways.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit