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Zoological Museum

4.6
·9k reviews·Sankt-Peterburg, Russia

A vast, historic museum showcasing an overwhelming collection of stuffed animals and skeletons, from mammoths to extinct species.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

CrowdLow
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Zoological Museum - Image 1

Zoological Museum

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vast, historic museum showcasing an overwhelming collection of stuffed animals and skeletons, from mammoths to extinct species.

4.6
(9k reviews)

"Absolutely fascinating and amazing! One of my favourite places in St Petersburg."

Vertical photo
TIP

250 Rubles Well Spent

The entry fee is very reasonable for the extensive collection you'll see. :moneybag:

Prepare for 'Old School' Vibes

It's a classic, 'old-fashioned' museum. Embrace the charm, don't expect modern displays. :vintage_camera:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mammoth and Blue Whale Skeletons

Mammoth and Blue Whale Skeletons

Main Hall

Stand in awe of the colossal skeletons of a mammoth and a blue whale, true giants of the past and present.

Extinct Species Collection

Extinct Species Collection

Various Exhibits

Discover rare and extinct creatures, including the famously elusive Tasmanian tiger, a testament to lost biodiversity.

Vast Stuffed Animal Collection

Vast Stuffed Animal Collection

Display Cases

Marvel at an overwhelming array of stuffed animals, showcasing an incredible diversity of species from around the globe.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Old-World Charm

This museum offers a vast, 'old-fashioned' collection of stuffed animals and skeletons. While some find it dusty, others praise its fascinating, rare exhibits like mammoths and the Tasmanian tiger. Prepare for a unique, albeit less modern, experience.

Budget-Friendly Exploration

With an affordable entry fee, the Zoological Museum is a great value for a few hours of exploration. It's a fantastic learning experience for all ages, showcasing an incredible diversity of life, past and present.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Good for families and kids
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

⚜️The Palaces that outlasted tsars, revolutions, and empires #romanovs #saintpetersburg #russianempire #anastasia #anastasiamovie #onceuponadecember #tsar #winterpalace #ImperialRussia #HistoryAesthetic #LostDynasty #HistoricalLuxury #RoyalRussia #HermitageMuseum #peterhof #barocco #DarkAcademiaVibes #HistoryTok #RussianHistory #OldMoneyAesthetic #EleganceThroughTime #HistoricalNarrative #PalaceDi...
@rina_aroundtheworld
759.3K likes • 3.9M views

250 Rubles Well Spent

The entry fee is very reasonable for the extensive collection you'll see. :moneybag:

Prepare for 'Old School' Vibes

It's a classic, 'old-fashioned' museum. Embrace the charm, don't expect modern displays. :vintage_camera:

Part 4: Things to Do For FREE in Zurich ✅ A Visit to the Zoological museum! The Zoological Museum in Zurich is completely FREE of charge and is home to around 1500 different animals and skeletons. Fun day recommendation: ✔️ Hop on the Polybahn (lil funicular which is part of the public transport in Zurich) and takes you almost all the way up to the museum. ✔️ Visit the museum ✔️ enjoy a picnic...
jas.decker
1.1K likes • 69.9K views
Meet Lyuba and Dima, two juvenile woolly mammoth mummies from Siberia 🦣 ⁣ ⁣ Lyuba and Dima are respectively the second and third best-preserved mammoth mummies ever discovered. They both hail from the permafrost deposits of Northern Siberia. Permafrost is completely frozen soil and sediment above or beneath the surface of the earth. Permafrost that formed during the last ice age is still around to...
charlottejhh
217.3K likes • 4.9M views

Two Hours is Plenty

Allocate about 2 hours to fully explore the vast exhibits without feeling rushed. :stopwatch:

Russian Language Focus

Most exhibit labels are in Russian, so a translation app might be helpful. :iphone:

Museum of Zoology - KU Leuven (Museum voor Dierkunde) The museum holds KU Leuven's zoological collection. The objects here have been collected since 1850. In the display cases are glass jars with animals on star water, as well as animal skeletons and stuffed animals. On the highlight of the collection is the giant skeleton of a bowhead whale, which is attached to the ceiling of the museum room. ...
casey.571
6 likes • 227 views

Tips

from all over the internet

250 Rubles Well Spent

The entry fee is very reasonable for the extensive collection you'll see. :moneybag:

Prepare for 'Old School' Vibes

It's a classic, 'old-fashioned' museum. Embrace the charm, don't expect modern displays. :vintage_camera:

Two Hours is Plenty

Allocate about 2 hours to fully explore the vast exhibits without feeling rushed. :stopwatch:

Russian Language Focus

Most exhibit labels are in Russian, so a translation app might be helpful. :iphone:

A Treat for Kids

Children and adults alike will find the extensive animal specimens enriching and educational. :child:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(9k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Zoological Museum for its vast and fascinating collection of stuffed animals and skeletons, including rare extinct species and impressive mammoth and whale skeletons. While some note its 'old-fashioned' and potentially dusty presentation, most find it an enriching, educational, and incredibly valuable experience for its low entry fee.

"Never in my life have I seen so many stuffed animals! Quite 'old fashioned' compared with British zoological museums, but absolutely fascinating and amazing! One of my favourite places in St Petersburg."

Michael Warner

"The museum is a great learning experience for kids and adults alike. It’s enriching and not to be missed. The collection is really commendable."

Gautam Talukdar

"The dustiest museum in the world! The vast collection of stuffed animals in the dirty boxes. There are truly rare exhibits like the extinct Tasmanian tiger and deferent types of the mammoths on the display. But the impression had been ruined by the state the museum is in! Who runs!? Please, clean it up!"

Filf

What People Like

Vast animal collection
Rare extinct species
Mammoth & whale skeletons

What People Dislike

Dated presentation
Dusty exhibits

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Zoological Museum is located on the Petrograd Side, near the Peter and Paul Fortress. You can reach it via metro to Gorkovskaya station. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk from there, or you can take a local bus or taxi. Reddit

Yes, it is well-served by public transport. The nearest metro station is Gorkovskaya (Line 5). Buses and trolleybuses also run in the vicinity. Reddit

Depending on your starting point, it can be a significant walk. However, it's a scenic route, especially if you're exploring the Peter and Paul Fortress area. Consider combining it with a walk along the Neva River. Reddit

Street parking can be challenging in this area. It's generally recommended to use public transport or a taxi to avoid parking hassles. Reddit

Taking the metro to Gorkovskaya station is the most cost-effective way to reach the museum. From there, it's a short, free walk. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The admission fee is very affordable, typically around 250 Rubles, making it an excellent value for the extensive collection. Reddit

Generally, advance booking is not required for the Zoological Museum. You can purchase tickets upon arrival. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but it's typically open during daytime hours on weekdays and weekends. It's advisable to check the official museum website or a reliable local guide for the most current hours before your visit. Reddit

Information on specific discounts for students or seniors is not widely publicized. It's best to inquire at the ticket counter upon arrival. Reddit

The museum is a state institution, and while specific pass information isn't readily available online, it's unlikely to be covered by international museum passes. Purchasing a direct ticket is the standard method. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the giant skeletons of the mammoth and blue whale, and look out for rare specimens like the extinct Tasmanian tiger. The sheer volume of stuffed animals is also a highlight. Reddit

Absolutely! It's a fantastic learning experience for kids, offering a visual journey through the animal kingdom. The vast collection of animals and skeletons is captivating for younger visitors. Reddit

Most exhibit labels are primarily in Russian. While this might be a barrier for some, the visual nature of the displays still makes it an engaging experience. Consider using a translation app if you want to read the details. Reddit

Most visitors spend around 2 hours exploring the museum. This allows ample time to see the main highlights and appreciate the breadth of the collection. Reddit

The museum has a distinct 'old-fashioned' and classic feel. Some describe it as dusty, while others find its vintage charm and vast collection fascinating and unique. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted inside the Zoological Museum, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or ask staff upon arrival. Be mindful of flash photography, as it can sometimes be restricted. TikTok

While not always explicitly stated, it's common museum etiquette to avoid using flash photography, especially with delicate specimens. Be respectful of other visitors and the exhibits. TikTok

The grand skeletons of the mammoth and blue whale offer impressive photo opportunities. The vast display cases filled with diverse stuffed animals also make for striking shots. TikTok

Tripods are often not allowed in museums to prevent obstruction and potential damage. It's best to rely on handheld shots or check with museum staff if you have specific needs. TikTok

The extinct species, like the Tasmanian tiger, and the sheer scale of the whale skeleton are highly photogenic. The variety of birds and mammals also provides endless photographic subjects. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Zoological Museum is a fantastic destination for families. The sheer number of stuffed animals and impressive skeletons, like the mammoth and blue whale, are sure to captivate children's imaginations. It's an engaging and educational experience that brings the animal kingdom to life in a tangible way. Reddit

While exhibit labels are primarily in Russian, the visual aspect of the museum is universally understandable. Encourage kids to spot their favorite animals or imagine the lives of extinct creatures. The affordable entry fee also makes it a budget-friendly outing for families looking for an enriching activity. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Zoological Museum is a gem. The admission fee is remarkably low, offering hours of exploration for a minimal cost. It's a perfect way to experience a significant cultural and scientific institution without breaking the bank. Reddit

Combine your visit with a metro ride to Gorkovskaya station, which is the most economical way to get there. Pack some snacks and water to save on potential on-site purchases. The museum provides immense value, allowing you to immerse yourself in natural history on a shoestring budget. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through Biodiversity

Founded in 1832, the Zoological Museum in Saint Petersburg boasts an immense collection of animal specimens, making it one of the largest of its kind. It serves as a vital repository for scientific research and education, housing over 500,000 items that span the breadth of the animal kingdom. Visitors can expect to see everything from microscopic organisms to the colossal skeletons of prehistoric giants. Instagram

The museum's 'old-fashioned' presentation is a key characteristic. While some might find it dated, it offers a unique glimpse into how natural history collections were displayed in the past. This approach allows for an overwhelming visual experience, with rows upon rows of stuffed animals and skeletons filling display cases. It’s a place where you can truly appreciate the vast diversity of life that has existed and continues to exist on our planet. Reddit

Key highlights include the impressive skeletons of a mammoth and a blue whale, which dominate the main halls and offer a profound sense of scale. The collection also features rare and extinct species, such as the Tasmanian tiger, providing a poignant reminder of biodiversity loss. For those interested in zoology or simply curious about the natural world, the museum offers an enriching and unforgettable experience. InstagramReddit

Navigating the Zoological Museum

When planning your visit to the Zoological Museum, understanding its layout and what to expect is key. The museum is structured to showcase its vast collection, with different sections dedicated to various animal groups. The sheer volume of specimens can be overwhelming, so it's helpful to have a general idea of what you want to see. Reddit

Many visitors recommend allocating at least two hours to fully appreciate the exhibits. While most labels are in Russian, the visual impact of the displays is universal. For those who wish to delve deeper into the scientific context, having a translation app on your phone can enhance the experience. The museum's location on the Petrograd Side makes it accessible via metro, with Gorkovskaya station being the closest. Reddit

Despite some reviews mentioning dustiness, the museum's value lies in its comprehensive collection and affordable entry fee. It's a place that sparks curiosity and wonder, offering a tangible connection to the natural world. Whether you're a student of zoology or a curious traveler, the Zoological Museum provides a unique and memorable encounter with the planet's incredible biodiversity. InstagramReddit

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