Mariinsky II - a large building with a clock on the front of it
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Mariinsky II

4.8
·11k reviews·Sankt-Peterburg, Russia

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Prime time for ballet & opera

CrowdHigh
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Mariinsky II - a large building with a clock on the front of it

Mariinsky II

Best Time

Evenings

Prime time for ballet & opera

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.8
(11k reviews)

"Best ballet experience you can dream of... a lifetime memory."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

World-Class Ballet Performances

World-Class Ballet Performances

Main Stage

Experience breathtaking performances of classics like Swan Lake and The Nutcracker by exceptional dancers.

TikTok+1
Spectacular Stage Design

Spectacular Stage Design

Auditorium

Marvel at outrageously rich costumes, breathtaking stage decor, and opulent interiors.

Reddit
Live Orchestra Accompaniment

Live Orchestra Accompaniment

Orchestra Pit

Enjoy the immersive experience enhanced by a live orchestra, adding depth and emotion to every performance.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

Popular performances at Mariinsky II sell out quickly. Secure your tickets online well before your visit to avoid disappointment, especially for renowned ballets like Swan Lake. TikTok

Dress Code Considerations

While Mariinsky II doesn't have a strict dress code, smart casual or slightly more formal attire is recommended to match the elegant atmosphere. Avoid shorts and flip-flops. Reddit

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Prime time for ballet & opera
Crowd
High
When
Matinee performances
Why
Great for families & daytime
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Высший свет #мариинскийтеатр #театр #мариинка #щелкунчик #санктпетербург #спб #питерневерслип #питер #saintpetersburg
@biathlon.mur
6.4K likes • 58.2K views

🎯 Book Ahead for Popular Shows

Swan Lake and other famous ballets sell out fast! Book your tickets online weeks or months in advance. TikTok

👔 Smart Casual is Key

No strict dress code, but dress smart-casual. Avoid shorts/flip-flops. Reddit

Bale hakkınd adaha fazla video istermisiniz?#mariinsky#mariinskytheatre#mariinskyballet#mariinskytheather#ballet#russianballet#ballerina#blackswan#swanlake#giselle#thenutcracker#laesmeralda#raymonda#balletvariation#bolshoi#bolshoiballet#fypシ
@strawbzlola
3.3K likes • 38.6K views
Tace la notte... in Il Trovatore by Verdi... at Mariinsky II. 22.03.2024
ariun_ganbaatar
189 likes • 8.7K views

🛋️ Extra Cushions Available

Need a boost? Ask for extra cushions for children to improve their view. Reddit

💳 Check Buffet Payment Options

Buffets may not always accept cards; have some cash handy. Reddit

30/05/24 Valery Gergiev's speech after receiving the Order 'For Merit to the Fartherland' II Class #gergiev #valerygergiev #гергиев #валерийгергиев #mariinskytheatre #mariinsky #мариинский #мариинскийтеатр #bolshoitheatre #bolshoi #большойтеатр #большой
valery_gergiev_fan
182 likes • 2.5K views

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. TikTok

👔 Smart Casual is Key

No strict dress code, but dress smart-casual. Avoid shorts/flip-flops. Reddit

🛋️ Extra Cushions Available

Need a boost? Ask for extra cushions for children to improve their view. Reddit

💳 Check Buffet Payment Options

Buffets may not always accept cards; have some cash handy. Reddit

📸 No Phone Recording During Shows

Please refrain from recording with phones; it's disruptive and disrespectful. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(11k reviews)

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

Exceptional ballet and opera
Luxurious interiors
Great acoustics

What People Dislike

Inflated buffet prices
External architecture

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

🎫 🎫 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. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

It's possible to find last-minute tickets, but for major productions, it's best to book well in advance to guarantee a seat. TikTok

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. TikTok

🎫 🎭 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Most performances at Mariinsky II include intermissions, allowing time to visit restrooms or the buffet. Reddit

Photography and videography are generally prohibited during performances to avoid disturbing the artists and audience. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are buffets located on several floors offering food and drinks. However, be aware that prices can be inflated. Reddit

Not always. It's recommended to have some cash on hand, as card payment is not always accepted at the buffets. Reddit

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. TikTok

No, taking photos or videos of performers during a show is strictly prohibited and considered disrespectful. Reddit

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

Mariinsky II is a fantastic destination for families looking to introduce children to the magic of ballet or opera. The theatre thoughtfully provides extra cushions for smaller children, ensuring they have a good view of the stage. Reddit This attention to detail makes the experience more enjoyable for younger attendees. Consider booking matinee performances, which are often scheduled at more convenient times for families.

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. Reddit Choosing a ballet with a familiar story, like 'The Nutcracker,' can also help keep children engaged throughout the show.

💰 Budget Travelers

Experiencing the Mariinsky Theatre doesn't have to break the bank. While premium seats can be expensive, Mariinsky II offers cheaper seats with an acceptable view. Reddit Booking these in advance is key to securing them. Look for performances during the week or less popular shows, which might have lower ticket prices. TikTok

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. Reddit Utilizing public transport instead of taxis will also help manage your budget.

💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways

A performance at Mariinsky II offers a truly romantic and memorable experience for couples. Imagine an evening filled with world-class ballet or opera, set against the backdrop of a luxurious and acoustically superb theatre. Reddit It's the perfect way to add a touch of elegance and culture to a romantic trip to St. Petersburg.

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. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Mariinsky Ballet Legacy

The Mariinsky Ballet is one of the oldest and most prestigious ballet companies in the world, with a history stretching back to the 18th century. It has been the training ground for legendary dancers and choreographers, shaping the course of classical ballet. Performances at Mariinsky II continue this rich tradition, showcasing a repertoire that includes iconic masterpieces and contemporary works. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Architectural Marvels: Mariinsky II

Mariinsky II, the newer venue of the Mariinsky Theatre complex, presents a striking contrast to its historic predecessor. While the external architecture might be a point of discussion for some, the interiors are universally praised for their beauty and comfort. Visitors often note the pleasing aesthetics, cleanliness, and cozy atmosphere. Reddit

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. Reddit 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. Reddit

Navigating Your Visit: Practical Tips

Planning your visit to Mariinsky II involves a few practical considerations to ensure a smooth experience. Booking tickets in advance is crucial, especially for popular ballets and operas, as they tend to sell out quickly. TikTok While there isn't a strict dress code, dressing in smart casual or slightly more formal attire is recommended to align with the theatre's elegant ambiance. Reddit

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. Reddit The staff are generally described as friendly and polite, and some may speak English, aiding visitors. Reddit

Remember that recording during performances is strictly prohibited and disruptive. Reddit By keeping these tips in mind, you can fully immerse yourself in the world-class performances Mariinsky II has to offer.

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