Mariinsky II
A world-renowned theatre showcasing breathtaking ballet and opera with opulent interiors and exceptional acoustics.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Prime time for ballet & opera
Mariinsky II
Best Time
Prime time for ballet & opera

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A world-renowned theatre showcasing breathtaking ballet and opera with opulent interiors and exceptional acoustics.
"Best ballet experience you can dream of... a lifetime memory."
🎯 Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Swan Lake and other famous ballets sell out fast! Book your tickets online weeks or months in advance.
👔 Smart Casual is Key
No strict dress code, but dress smart-casual. Avoid shorts/flip-flops.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

World-Class Ballet Performances
Main Stage
Experience breathtaking performances of classics like Swan Lake and The Nutcracker by exceptional dancers.

Spectacular Stage Design
Auditorium
Marvel at outrageously rich costumes, breathtaking stage decor, and opulent interiors.

Live Orchestra Accompaniment
Orchestra Pit
Enjoy the immersive experience enhanced by a live orchestra, adding depth and emotion to every performance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Dress Code Considerations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Swan Lake and other famous ballets sell out fast! Book your tickets online weeks or months in advance.
👔 Smart Casual is Key
No strict dress code, but dress smart-casual. Avoid shorts/flip-flops.
🛋️ Extra Cushions Available
Need a boost? Ask for extra cushions for children to improve their view.
💳 Check Buffet Payment Options
Buffets may not always accept cards; have some cash handy.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Swan Lake and other famous ballets sell out fast! Book your tickets online weeks or months in advance.
👔 Smart Casual is Key
No strict dress code, but dress smart-casual. Avoid shorts/flip-flops.
🛋️ Extra Cushions Available
Need a boost? Ask for extra cushions for children to improve their view.
💳 Check Buffet Payment Options
Buffets may not always accept cards; have some cash handy.
📸 No Phone Recording During Shows
Please refrain from recording with phones; it's disruptive and disrespectful.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mariinsky II is lauded for its world-class performances, particularly ballet, with exceptional music, costumes, and choreography. Visitors praise the luxurious interiors, comfortable seating, and excellent acoustics. While some find the external architecture debatable, the overall experience is consistently described as breathtaking and memorable, though buffet prices are noted as inflated.
"One of the city's main cultural venues does not always stage interesting plots, but always produces impressive performances - music, costumes, scenery, vocals and choreography are at the highest level. If the external architecture of the building is controversial, the interiors are pleasing to the eye, the chairs are relatively comfortable, everything is clean and cozy. Buffets and restrooms are located on several floors, the buffet does not always accept card payments, and the prices for food and drinks are inflated. The staff is friendly and polite."
Lee Yan
"This theater is world-class and was a joy to experience it for the first time. Down to the details of providing extra cushions for smaller children in order that they might see what is happening on stage is just some of the nice touches put into this building. Since it was cold out and we all came in coats, this cloak rooms were well laid out and easy to access of the performance. What can I saw about the performers themselves? The Russian ballet is something to behold and the Mariinsky performers are exceptional when it comes to their skills. Having a live orchestra is also makes the experience in this lovely performance hall one of true joy."
Aaron Bogott
"Best ballet experience you can dream of...
Beautiful, luxurious modern hall, very comfortable seats, excellent acoustics, and spectacular show, breathtaking stage decor, outrageously rich costumes and flawless performance of the prima ballerina and leading dancers. No wonder the entire audience were swept on their feet for a long standing obation. What a lifetime memory...its definitely good to be the king of ballet...🌹"
נועם חי (אישי ומשפחתי)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mariinsky II is easily accessible by public transport. You can take the metro to the Mariinsky Theatre station (Teatralnaya) and it's a short walk. Buses and trolleybuses also serve the area. Taxis are readily available.
Street parking can be challenging in the city center. It's advisable to use public transport or a taxi to reach Mariinsky II. If driving, research paid parking lots in the vicinity beforehand.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk from Nevsky Prospekt, taking approximately 20-30 minutes depending on your starting point. It's a great way to see more of the city.
While not explicitly mentioned in social media, check the official Mariinsky Theatre website for information on potential backstage tours or guided architectural tours.
Arriving 30-45 minutes before the performance starts is recommended to allow time for cloakroom and seating without rushing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased online through the official Mariinsky Theatre website or authorized ticket vendors. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular shows like Swan Lake.
Ticket prices vary widely depending on the performance, seating location, and demand. You can find cheap seats with an okay view, or opt for premium seats at a higher cost.
There isn't a strict dress code, but smart casual or semi-formal attire is generally appropriate. Avoid overly casual wear like shorts or flip-flops.
It's possible to find last-minute tickets, but for major productions, it's best to book well in advance to guarantee a seat.
It's advisable to arrive at least 30-45 minutes before the performance begins to allow ample time for coat check and finding your seat.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
For ballet, seats offering a clear, unobstructed view of the stage are ideal. The dress circle or front rows of the stalls provide excellent perspectives.
The theatre is generally accessible, with provisions like extra cushions for children suggesting a thoughtful approach to visitor comfort. Check the official website for specific accessibility details.
The atmosphere is typically one of refined appreciation, with audiences often erupting into standing ovations for exceptional performances.
Most performances at Mariinsky II include intermissions, allowing time to visit restrooms or the buffet.
Photography and videography are generally prohibited during performances to avoid disturbing the artists and audience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are buffets located on several floors offering food and drinks. However, be aware that prices can be inflated.
Not always. It's recommended to have some cash on hand, as card payment is not always accepted at the buffets.
The buffets typically offer snacks, light meals, and beverages suitable for consumption during intermissions.
The area around Mariinsky Theatre has several restaurants and cafes offering various cuisines, perfect for a pre- or post-performance meal.
Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside the theatre auditoriums.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is typically restricted during performances to avoid disruption. Check signage or ask staff for guidelines on photography in public areas.
The exterior architecture, especially at night, offers striking photographic opportunities. Inside, the opulent interiors and grand staircase are also popular subjects.
No, taking photos or videos of performers during a show is strictly prohibited and considered disrespectful.
Flash photography is almost always prohibited in theatres to protect the performers' eyes and avoid distracting the audience.
A camera with good low-light performance is ideal for capturing the theatre's interior. A wide-angle lens can be useful for interior shots, while a telephoto lens might be good for capturing details from afar.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the performances themselves can be captivating, it's worth noting that some ballets might have longer durations. Planning for intermissions allows for breaks, and the availability of buffets can provide snacks. Choosing a ballet with a familiar story, like 'The Nutcracker,' can also help keep children engaged throughout the show.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider attending concerts or operas that might be more affordable than major ballet productions. While food and drinks at the theatre buffets are pricey, you can save money by eating at local cafes or bakeries before or after the show. Utilizing public transport instead of taxis will also help manage your budget.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider booking seats with a great view for an enhanced experience. Afterwards, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the nearby canals or find a charming restaurant for a late dinner, reflecting on the magic of the performance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mariinsky Ballet Legacy
Audiences consistently praise the exceptional skill and artistry of the Mariinsky performers. The dedication to preserving classical technique while embracing innovation is evident in every production. From the precision of the corps de ballet to the expressive solos of the principals, the company delivers performances that are both technically brilliant and emotionally resonant.
Experiencing a ballet at Mariinsky II is often described as a 'lifetime memory'. The combination of world-class talent, stunning visual design, and the historic grandeur of the theatre creates an unforgettable cultural immersion. It's a chance to witness the pinnacle of Russian ballet artistry.
Architectural Marvels: Mariinsky II
The theatre boasts excellent acoustics, ensuring a superb auditory experience for opera and concert performances. The seating is designed for comfort, with thoughtful touches like providing extra cushions for smaller audience members to enhance their viewing experience. The overall design aims to create an immersive and enjoyable environment for all patrons, blending modern functionality with a sense of grandeur.
From the breathtaking stage decor to the outrageously rich costumes, every visual element at Mariinsky II is crafted to enhance the magic of the performance. The attention to detail in the theatre's design contributes significantly to the overall spectacular nature of the shows presented.
Navigating Your Visit: Practical Tips
Upon arrival, utilize the well-organized cloakrooms for your outerwear. Be aware that while buffets are available on multiple floors, card payments are not always accepted, so it's wise to have some cash on hand. The staff are generally described as friendly and polite, and some may speak English, aiding visitors.
Remember that recording during performances is strictly prohibited and disruptive. By keeping these tips in mind, you can fully immerse yourself in the world-class performances Mariinsky II has to offer.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit