New Peterhof Railway Station
A stunning neo-Gothic architectural gem, this 19th-century railway station served as the grand royal gateway to Peterhof.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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New Peterhof Railway Station
Best Time
Best light for architecture
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning neo-Gothic architectural gem, this 19th-century railway station served as the grand royal gateway to Peterhof.
"The station building is very beautiful! An architectural monument of the 19th century."
📸 Architectural Photo Op
Capture the stunning neo-Gothic facade; it's a photographer's dream!
👑 Royal History
Imagine the Tsar arriving here! It was built for imperial journeys.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Neo-Gothic Grandeur
Admire the solemn neo-Gothic architecture of this 19th-century station, designed by Nikolai Benois.
Architectural Miniature
The station's layout mirrors the Catholic Cathedral of Orvieto, a nod to architect Benoit's work.
Imperial Arrival Point
Once the royal family's gateway to Peterhof, feel the history of its grand purpose.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Arrive in Style: The Royal Welcome
A Hidden Gem Worth Seeking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Architectural Photo Op
Capture the stunning neo-Gothic facade; it's a photographer's dream!
👑 Royal History
Imagine the Tsar arriving here! It was built for imperial journeys.
💎 A True Gem
Don't just pass through; take time to appreciate this beautiful, often-missed station.
🗺️ Gateway to Peterhof
This station is your first glimpse of Peterhof's grandeur before heading to the palace.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Architectural Photo Op
Capture the stunning neo-Gothic facade; it's a photographer's dream!
👑 Royal History
Imagine the Tsar arriving here! It was built for imperial journeys.
💎 A True Gem
Don't just pass through; take time to appreciate this beautiful, often-missed station.
🗺️ Gateway to Peterhof
This station is your first glimpse of Peterhof's grandeur before heading to the palace.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the New Peterhof Railway Station as a beautiful architectural monument, often described as a 'royal station' with stunning neo-Gothic design. Many note its historical significance as the imperial family's arrival point and lament that it's not more widely recognized as a tourist spot. While functional, its beauty is its main draw.
"The station building is very beautiful! An architectural monument of the 19th century. It's a pity that few people know about it. But it could be a tourist spot if someone took it seriously."
Viktor Son
"The station building was built in 1855-1857 according to the design of the architect N. L. Benoit with money from Baron von Stieglitz. The general layout of the outer part of the station is a smaller copy of the Catholic Cathedral of the Italian city of Orvieto, in the restoration of which Benoit took part in 1843. Initially, the railway from St. Petersburg ended inside the station building, but later, when the tracks continued towards Oranienbaum, the western wall of the building was dismantled."
Сергей Киселёв
"Indeed, the royal station. Solemn neo-Gothic. Architect Nikolai Benois. Built from 1854 to 1857."
Antonius
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most direct way is by train from St. Petersburg. Look for trains heading to 'Novy Petergof' (New Peterhof). The station is conveniently located and serves as a primary arrival point for the town.
Yes, it's easily accessible by train from St. Petersburg. The journey offers scenic views and is a popular option for visitors heading to Peterhof Palace.
From New Peterhof Railway Station, you can take local buses or taxis to reach Peterhof Palace and its gardens. The station is a good starting point for exploring the area.
No, there are no direct trains from Moscow to New Peterhof Railway Station. You would first need to travel to St. Petersburg and then take a local train to New Peterhof.
While hydrofoils are a popular way to reach Peterhof Palace from St. Petersburg, they typically dock closer to the palace and fountains, not directly at the New Peterhof Railway Station. You would likely need to transfer to ground transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The station building itself is a functional railway station, so typically no separate ticket is required to enter and admire its architecture. However, access to specific areas might be restricted.
As an active railway station, it operates according to train schedules. It's best to check local train timetables for specific operating hours, especially for ticket offices and waiting areas.
There is no entrance fee to simply walk through and admire the architecture of the New Peterhof Railway Station. It's a public space.
Yes, you can typically purchase train tickets for onward journeys from the ticket counters within the station.
While not a primary tourist attraction for tours, its historical significance means occasional events or special access might be arranged, especially for historical societies or wedding planners.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed inside the station. However, it's always a good idea to be mindful of other travelers and avoid obstructing operations.
The exterior neo-Gothic facade is a highlight. Inside, look for architectural details and the grand hall. The overall design is very photogenic.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and near historical buildings for safety and privacy reasons. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
The golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) often provide beautiful light for capturing the station's architecture. Daytime offers clear views of the details.
For professional photoshoots, especially commercial ones, you might need to obtain permission from the station administration.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider arriving by train to make the journey part of the adventure. From the station, you can easily catch a bus or taxi to the main attractions. Pack snacks and drinks, as options might be limited within the station itself, and plan your onward journey to the palace to maximize your family's enjoyment of the day.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Inside, the station's main hall provides opportunities for interior shots, showcasing its scale and historical ambiance. The best light for exterior shots is often during the golden hours, but even midday sun can highlight the stone details. Remember to be respectful of ongoing train operations and passengers while you capture your shots.
🏛️ History Buffs
Understand its original purpose as a royal gateway and how its design reflects the era's aesthetic and social hierarchies. Comparing its architectural style to other stations of the period or its Italian inspirations can offer deeper insights into its historical context.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel: The Neo-Gothic Design
The station's layout is particularly interesting, as it was inspired by the Catholic Cathedral of Orvieto in Italy, where Benoit had previously worked on restoration projects. This influence is evident in the building's proportions and decorative elements. Originally, the railway tracks ran directly into the station building, allowing royalty to disembark with ease. Later, when the tracks were extended, the western wall was modified.
Today, the New Peterhof Railway Station stands as a testament to the era's architectural ambitions and the significance of rail travel for the Russian aristocracy. It's a beautiful piece of history that offers a unique glimpse into the past, often overshadowed by the more famous Peterhof Palace but equally deserving of admiration.
A Royal Gateway: History and Purpose
Its construction in the mid-19th century coincided with the expansion of Russia's railway network and the growing popularity of Peterhof as a summer retreat. The station's prime location and opulent design underscored the importance of Peterhof as a symbol of imperial power and leisure. It was a crucial link connecting the capital, St. Petersburg, with the splendor of the imperial summer palace.
Even today, the station retains its historical charm and continues to serve travelers. While its primary royal function has ceased, it remains a significant landmark, offering visitors a tangible connection to Russia's imperial past. Its continued use as an active station ensures its preservation and accessibility for those interested in its unique history.
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