Singer House Dom Knigi St Petersburg
St. Petersburg's iconic House of Books, a stunning Art Nouveau landmark on Nevsky Prospekt, offering a vast literary collection and charming cafe.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing
Singer House Dom Knigi St Petersburg
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
St. Petersburg's iconic House of Books, a stunning Art Nouveau landmark on Nevsky Prospekt, offering a vast literary collection and charming cafe.
"A cultural landmark and a must-visit for book lovers and history buffs alike."
Ask for Recommendations
Staff like Pavel are incredibly knowledgeable and can help you find great titles. :books:
Explore All Floors
From rare finds to children's books, each level offers something unique. :mag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Art Nouveau Architecture
Nevsky Prospekt
Marvel at the stunning early 20th-century Art Nouveau building, a true architectural gem.
Vast Literary Collection
All Floors
Explore shelves brimming with Russian classics, contemporary works, and foreign literature.
Cozy On-site Cafe
Inside the bookstore
Relax with a coffee and a newly purchased book in a charming, literary-themed cafe.
Souvenir Shopping
Ground Floor
Find unique book-themed souvenirs, postcards, and gift editions perfect for taking home.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Literary Pilgrimage
Navigating the Aisles
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Ask for Recommendations
Staff like Pavel are incredibly knowledgeable and can help you find great titles. :books:
Explore All Floors
From rare finds to children's books, each level offers something unique. :mag:
Life in Saint Petersburg
Considering 2 full days in Moscow + 2 in St. Petersburg, what would you recommend a foreigner to do besides Red Square, the Kremlin, the Hermitage + Fabergé Museum? (in February)
Check for Events
Look out for author readings and literary discussions to immerse yourself in culture. :microphone:
Souvenir Hunting
Beautiful gift editions and postcards make perfect mementos. :gift:
Tips
from all over the internet
Ask for Recommendations
Staff like Pavel are incredibly knowledgeable and can help you find great titles. :books:
Explore All Floors
From rare finds to children's books, each level offers something unique. :mag:
Check for Events
Look out for author readings and literary discussions to immerse yourself in culture. :microphone:
Souvenir Hunting
Beautiful gift editions and postcards make perfect mementos. :gift:
Improve Your Russian
Find bilingual books or original texts to practice your language skills. :flag_ru:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Dom Knigi is celebrated as a historic architectural marvel and a premier destination for book lovers, offering an extensive selection and a charming cafe. Visitors frequently praise the helpful staff and the unique atmosphere. However, some find the children's section less impressive, and like many popular spots, it can get crowded.
"A young staff member with impeccable English by the name of Pavel (if I recall correctly) attended to me and recommended some great titles. He told me he was originally from Yakutsk. Giving this place 5 stars alone based on his service. Purchased Tolstoy’s The Kreutzer Sonata, some of Gogol’s works including ‘Viy’ and ‘The Nose’, as well as Ilf & Petrov’s ‘The Little Golden Calf’"
DDT
"Dom Knigi, or the House of Books, is one of the most famous and historic bookstores in Saint Petersburg, Russia. Located on Nevsky Prospekt, the city's main thoroughfare, it has become a cultural landmark and a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists.
Key Features
1. Historical Significance: The building that houses Dom Knigi was originally constructed in the early 20th century (1912-1914) by architect Sergey A. V. V. V. Vasilyev. It was designed in the Art Nouveau style and is notable for its beautiful façade and elegant interiors.
2. Cultural Hub: Dom Knigi has long been a center of literary and cultural life in Saint Petersburg. It hosts various events, including book presentations, author readings, and literary discussions. The bookstore aims to promote Russian literature and culture.
3. Extensive Selection: The bookstore offers a wide range of books in various genres, including fiction, non-fiction, children's literature, and academic texts. It also features a selection of foreign literature and works in translation.
4. Café and Events: Inside Dom Knigi, visitors can find a cozy café where they can relax with a book and enjoy refreshments. The bookstore often organizes events that attract literary enthusiasts and the general public.
5. Architectural Beauty: The building itself is an architectural gem, featuring intricate details both inside and out. The interior includes grand staircases, spacious reading areas, and beautiful decorations that enhance the overall atmosphere of the bookstore.
Visiting Dom Knigi
Dom Knigi is not just a place to buy books; it's an experience that embodies the literary heritage of Saint Petersburg. Whether you're a book lover, a history enthusiast, or simply looking to explore a unique cultural site, Dom Knigi is a delightful stop in the city. It reflects the rich literary tradition of Russia and the vibrant cultural life of Saint Petersburg.."
Cazzal
"House number 28 at Nevsky Prospect over Griboyedov’s Canal was built in 1902-1904 by Russian architect Pavel Suzor (1844-1919) for American "Singer Corporation" Company. Since 1938, this building has become the main book shop of the city known as just The House of the Book. Saint Petersburg, 🇷🇺Russian Federation 🇷🇺. September 13, 2024."
Oleg Naumov
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dom Knigi is conveniently located at 28 Nevsky Prospekt, right on the city's main thoroughfare. You can easily reach it by metro, alighting at Gostiny Dvor or Nevsky Prospekt stations. Many buses and trolleybuses also stop nearby.
Yes, it's very accessible. The nearest metro stations are Gostiny Dvor and Nevsky Prospekt, both within a short walking distance. Numerous bus and trolleybus routes also serve Nevsky Prospekt.
Absolutely! Dom Knigi is centrally located on Nevsky Prospekt, making it a pleasant walk from many other key St. Petersburg sights like Kazan Cathedral and the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood.
Approaching from either end of Nevsky Prospekt offers a grand view of the building. Many visitors find it particularly striking when viewed from across Griboyedov Canal.
Parking on Nevsky Prospekt can be challenging and is often restricted. It's highly recommended to use public transport or a taxi to reach Dom Knigi.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Dom Knigi is free. It's a public bookstore, so you can browse the shelves and enjoy the atmosphere without purchasing a ticket.
Dom Knigi typically opens around 10 AM and closes at 10 PM daily. However, it's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for any seasonal changes or holiday hours.
There is no admission fee to enter the bookstore itself. You are welcome to explore the beautiful architecture and browse the extensive book collection freely.
While they don't typically offer advance booking for general purchases, you might be able to inquire about specific rare editions or event tickets through their customer service.
Yes, Dom Knigi frequently hosts book presentations, author readings, and literary discussions. It's worth checking their event calendar online before your visit.
🎫 📚 Onsite Experience
You'll find a vast selection including Russian classics, contemporary literature, foreign language books, children's books, academic texts, and art books. They also have beautiful gift editions.
Yes, they have a dedicated section for foreign literature, including many popular titles in English translation or original English. Staff can often assist in locating them.
The atmosphere is grand yet cozy, combining the historical charm of the Art Nouveau building with the quiet hum of a bustling bookstore. It's a great place to soak in the literary culture.
Yes, there is a cafe located within the bookstore where you can enjoy refreshments and relax with your purchases.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but it's always polite to be discreet and avoid disrupting other shoppers. Some areas might have restrictions, so observe any signage.
🎫 🎁 Shopping & Souvenirs
Besides books, you can find a wide array of souvenirs, including postcards, stationery, art prints, and book-themed gifts. They also have special gift editions of classic Russian literature.
Souvenirs and gift editions are often found on the ground floor, with specific sections dedicated to fashion, pop art, and journaling supplies. Postcards are usually displayed near the Griboyedov Canal side.
Prices are generally in line with other major bookstores. For souvenirs, you can find a range of options from affordable postcards to more premium gift items.
Yes, Dom Knigi offers a good selection of stationery, notebooks, and journaling supplies, often with artistic or literary themes.
Absolutely. Dom Knigi has an extensive collection of books on St. Petersburg's history, architecture, art, and culture, often available in multiple languages.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents might find it helpful to focus on the gift editions and souvenir sections on the ground floor, which often have visually appealing items. The cafe offers a nice spot for a short break. Keep in mind that it can get busy, so managing expectations for very young children is key.
📚 Book Lovers & Literary Enthusiasts
Don't miss the literary events hosted here; attending an author reading or book presentation can be a highlight of your visit. The building's historical significance as a literary hub adds another layer of appreciation. Allow ample time to explore each floor and soak in the atmosphere.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Inside, focus on capturing the scale of the bookstore, the intricate architectural elements, and the cozy cafe ambiance. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography. The natural light filtering through the dome can create beautiful effects.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel of Dom Knigi
Inside, the bookstore retains much of its original splendor. Visitors can admire the ornate interiors, including sweeping staircases and spacious reading areas, which contribute to the unique atmosphere. The building's historical significance as a hub for literary and cultural life in Saint Petersburg further enhances its appeal, making it more than just a bookstore but a cultural landmark.
Experiencing the architecture is a key part of visiting Dom Knigi. The blend of historical grandeur and the vibrant energy of a modern bookstore creates a memorable visit. It’s a place where you can feel the pulse of St. Petersburg’s rich literary heritage while surrounded by beautiful design.
A Literary Haven for All
Beyond general literature, Dom Knigi offers specialized sections, including children's books, academic texts, and art publications. The presence of beautiful gift editions and books on fashion and pop art adds to the diverse offerings. Staff members are often praised for their helpfulness, with some offering excellent recommendations, even assisting visitors in finding bilingual books to improve their Russian.
The bookstore actively promotes Russian literature and culture by hosting various events such as book presentations and author readings. This commitment makes Dom Knigi a dynamic cultural center, not just a retail space. It’s a place where book lovers can connect with authors and fellow enthusiasts, enriching their understanding of Russian literary traditions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit