State Hermitage Museum
A vast imperial palace housing millions of art and cultural artifacts, offering a glimpse into Russia's rich history and artistic legacy.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene viewing
State Hermitage Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast imperial palace housing millions of art and cultural artifacts, offering a glimpse into Russia's rich history and artistic legacy.
"The building was the most impressive part of the museum; when you think you saw the top showpiece hall, there are twenty more to follow."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across vast halls and numerous galleries. :athletic_shoe:
Download a Museum App
Navigate the immense museum and get information on exhibits. :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Winter Palace Interiors
Main Building
Lavish halls with marble, gold, and intricate details that are a masterpiece of architecture themselves.
Romanov Portrait Gallery
Main Building
A stunning collection of portraits of Russian emperors and empresses, showcasing imperial history.
Masterpieces of Art
Various Galleries
From Rembrandt to Da Vinci, the sheer volume and quality of art will leave you speechless.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Allocate Ample Time
Book Tickets in Advance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across vast halls and numerous galleries. :athletic_shoe:
Download a Museum App
Navigate the immense museum and get information on exhibits. :iphone:
Focus on Your Interests
With millions of items, don't try to see everything. Prioritize what you love most. :compass:
Consider a Guided Tour
Enhance your understanding of the art and history. :guide_dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across vast halls and numerous galleries. :athletic_shoe:
Download a Museum App
Navigate the immense museum and get information on exhibits. :iphone:
Focus on Your Interests
With millions of items, don't try to see everything. Prioritize what you love most. :compass:
Consider a Guided Tour
Enhance your understanding of the art and history. :guide_dog:
Don't Forget the Cats!
The Hermitage is home to official museum cats who help control rodents. :cat:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the State Hermitage Museum as one of the most stunning and impressive museums globally, often comparing its grandeur to the Louvre. The sheer scale of the art collection and the breathtaking architecture of the Winter Palace are frequently highlighted as unforgettable experiences. However, the extensive size can be overwhelming, and long waiting times for tickets are a common point of dissatisfaction.
"This is one of the most stunning Museums I have ever seen, it is extremely bigger than any other museums I have visited in many countries around the world.
The whole belongings of Catherine the Great are exhibited here and you need more than half a day if you really want to see all and everything.
It is without doubt the most beautiful and rich of art museum in the world.
Expect waiting time of half and hour during week days and up to one hour waiting time during weekends, however it is worth waiting for.
It is highly recommended to visit 👌"
azam soukar
"⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Absolutely stunning experience. The Hermitage is truly one of the most impressive museums I’ve ever visited. The art, the history, and the architecture left me speechless. I loved every minute of it — a must-see if you're in St. Petersburg!"
David Kardanov
"For me, the building was the most impressive part of the museum. When you think you saw the top showpiece hall, there are twenty more to follow.
Then the collection is of course substantial as well. It consists mainly of 18th century works, and works that were famous at that time, and early 19th century works. There is hardly anything (if anything at all?) from past 1850. The collection therefore documents wonderfully the artistic taste of the Enlightenment and Empire epochs.
Many information texts are in Russian and English, but many also are in Russian only, especially the more recent additions.
For tourists without a bank card, the only way to buy tickets is at the cash desk inside, and that takes about an hour and 15 minutes."
Pauline L
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hermitage is centrally located on Palace Square. You can easily reach it by metro to the Nevsky Prospekt or Admiralteyskaya stations, followed by a short walk. Many bus and trolleybus routes also stop nearby. Taxis are readily available.
Yes, the Hermitage, primarily housed in the Winter Palace, is a prominent landmark on Palace Square and is hard to miss. Its grandeur is visible from afar.
Absolutely. Taxis are a convenient option, especially if you're coming from further afield or have mobility concerns. Ensure you use a reputable service or app.
Palace Square offers iconic views of the Winter Palace. For interior shots, be mindful of museum rules and designated photo areas.
Yes, Palace Square itself is a major attraction, and you're close to the Admiralty, St. Isaac's Cathedral, and the Bronze Horseman.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but generally, admission is affordable. It's highly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance to avoid long queues at the cash desk, which can take over an hour.
The museum is typically open Tuesday through Sunday, with varying hours. It's best to check the official Hermitage website for the most up-to-date opening times and any special closures.
Yes, you can buy tickets at the cash desk inside the museum. However, be prepared for potentially long waiting times, especially during peak season or weekends.
There is no strict dress code, but it's advisable to dress comfortably and respectfully, as it is a cultural institution.
Historically, the first Thursday of each month was free for certain visitors, but it's crucial to verify current policies on the official Hermitage website as these can change.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Given its immense size, a minimum of 3-4 hours is recommended for a basic overview. To truly appreciate it, plan for a full day or even multiple visits.
Highlights include the opulent interiors of the Winter Palace, the Romanov Portrait Gallery, and masterpieces by European artists. The sheer scale of the collection means there's something for everyone.
The museum has made efforts to improve accessibility, with elevators and ramps in some areas. However, due to its historic nature, some parts may be challenging. It's best to check their accessibility information beforehand.
Photography is generally allowed in most areas for personal use, but without flash. Some special exhibitions may have restrictions. Always look for signage.
Yes, guided tours are available in various languages and can significantly enhance your understanding of the collections and history.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum has several cafes and restaurants offering refreshments and meals. These can be a convenient option for a break during your visit.
You can typically find a range of options from light snacks and coffee to more substantial meals, often with Russian and international influences.
It's generally advisable to consume your own food and drinks outside the museum or in designated areas to avoid potential damage to exhibits.
Yes, the area around Palace Square and Nevsky Prospekt is filled with numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars offering diverse culinary experiences.
Prices at museum cafes can be slightly higher than average, but they offer convenience. Exploring nearby eateries might provide more budget-friendly options.
📸 📸 Photography
The Jordan Staircase, the Malachite Room, and the various opulent halls of the Winter Palace are incredibly photogenic. Palace Square offers exterior shots.
Tripods and selfie sticks are generally not permitted inside the museum to avoid obstructing other visitors and potentially damaging artworks.
No, flash photography is strictly prohibited in all areas of the Hermitage Museum to protect the delicate artworks from light damage.
Professional photography, including for commercial purposes or photoshoots, may require special permits and advance arrangements.
Natural light filtering through the grand windows can be beautiful. Mid-morning or late afternoon can offer softer lighting conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a shorter, focused visit to avoid fatigue. Look for interactive elements or specific galleries that might appeal to children, such as ancient Egyptian artifacts or displays of armor. Bringing snacks and planning for breaks in the museum's cafes will also help make the visit more enjoyable for the whole family.
🏛️ Art History Buffs
Pay close attention to the provenance of the artworks and the historical context of their acquisition by Catherine the Great and subsequent rulers. The museum's focus on 18th and early 19th-century art offers a unique window into the artistic tastes of those eras. Don't miss the opportunity to study the architectural evolution of the Winter Palace itself.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Focus on capturing the architectural marvels like the Jordan Staircase and the various gilded halls. Outside, Palace Square provides iconic backdrops of the Winter Palace. Remember to adhere to the no-flash policy and be mindful of other visitors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Imperial Grandeur of the Winter Palace
Visitors are often struck by the sheer scale and beauty of rooms like the Jordan Staircase, the Malachite Room, and the Imperial Throne Room. These spaces were designed to impress and showcase the power and wealth of the Romanov dynasty. Walking through these halls, you can almost feel the echoes of imperial balls and historical events that unfolded within these walls.
+1Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the palace's architecture reflects various styles, primarily Baroque and Neoclassical, showcasing the evolution of design during the imperial era. It's a place where history, art, and architecture converge, offering a profound glimpse into the lives of Russia's rulers.
A World-Class Art Collection
Key highlights include an extensive collection of Western European art, featuring works by Rembrandt, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael. The museum also holds significant collections of Russian art, antiquities from ancient Egypt and Greece, and Islamic art. The sheer volume means that only a fraction of the collection is on display at any given time.
Many visitors are particularly drawn to the Romanov Portrait Gallery, offering a visual journey through the imperial family's history. The collection's focus on 18th and early 19th-century works also provides a unique insight into the artistic tastes of the Enlightenment and Empire epochs.
The Hermitage Cats: Guardians of Art
Today, there are over 70 cats living on the museum's grounds, cared for by a dedicated team. They have their own press secretary and even an annual 'Day of the Hermitage Cat'. Visitors often delight in spotting these furry guardians as they patrol the museum's corridors and courtyards.
For those who fall in love with these feline protectors, there's even an opportunity to adopt one of the Hermitage cats, further extending their legacy and ensuring their well-being. It's a unique tradition that adds a charming and whimsical dimension to the museum experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit