turners luxury travel

• 59, Days Road, Bristol, BS2 0QS.
• 0117 955 9086 (Mon- Fri. 7:00- 17:00)
• [email protected]

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coach service

• Air Conditioning
• Real Time GPS Tracking
• Washroom Facilities

TURNERS COACHWAYS

Established in 1966, Turners have been providing first class travel services for over half a century to numerous customers across the country. We are based close to the city centre of Bristol. As a company we are proud to be the largest coach provider in the area with over 50 coaches offering 8-seater minibuses to 94 seater double decker coaches.

Our values are based on high standards of service and reliability. We take pride in delivering a first-class experience to a wide range of customers and believe the customer comes first.  All our fully qualified drivers are well versed in delivering exceptionally high levels of customer service. Our drivers will arrive in full uniform, hold an enhanced DBS check and up to date CPC training.

We supply corporate travel, sports travel, school trips, rail replacement and airport transfers as well as individual private hire bookings.

OUR COACHES

If you’re looking for something a little different from your journey, Turners offer an array of travel services for business or pleasure and for any sized group. We can match your detailed requirements with a value for money, cost effective service.

Whether you choose from our Corporate, Executive or Standard range, Turners provide the highest levels of comfort which means you can sit back, relax and arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and having had the best travel experience. We have an extensive fleet of well-maintained, well driven, reliable and modern vehicles ranging from 8 to 94 seaters.

ENVIRONMENTAL STANDARDS

All Turners coaches are Euro 6 complaint enabling us to enter all of the Uk’s Clean Air Zones. We are proud to have the first zero emission Electric private hire coach in the South West area.

• Leather Seats
• Full Kitchen Facilities
• Reclining Seats
• USB Connections & 240v Power Supply
• Satellite Tracking
• Bathroom Facilities

OUR CLIENTS

Turners Coachways work with a wide variety of high-profile blue-chip companies and organisations across the Southwest region and have, for many years, provided clients with trips and excursions around the UK and Europe.

Our services range from transporting corporate clients to providing transport for day trips and swimming lessons for local schools. We also provide luxury coach travel for several championship football clubs.

Many of our customers have been using our services since we started and as well as continually re-booking, they have recommended us to other organisations, which has helped us to become the premier luxury travel service in the Southwest.

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• 0117 955 9086 ( Mon- Fri. 7:00- 17:00)

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Description

Turners of Gt. Barton is a family run business established over 40 years ago. The fleet includes luxury cars and mini coaches. Today it is still owned and operated by the Turner Family from the same location, but the fleet has grown and now includes luxury cars, minibuses and coaches.

All our journeys are tailored to suit the particular needs of the customer. Our effort to maintain Quality Travel demands Reliable Vehicles and Professional Staff.

Our fleet comprises Mercedes and Volkswagen brand vehicles only. There is the security of a 24/7 UK breakdown/recovery guarantee on all our vehicles. Our fleet servicing, repairs and inspections are handled by Taylor Commercials Ltd and our own in-house Servicing Garage at Rougham. Specialist equipment such as tail lifts are inspected and maintained by Alfa Tail Lifts Ltd. Smaller vehicles under 12 seat capacity are licensed and regulated under an Operator Licence granted by St Edmundsbury Borough Council. Larger vehicles are operated under a National PCV Operators Licence granted by Department for Transport.

Our Staff are qualified by licence and on-going training, and they are all enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service cleared.

Our vehicles include

• Wheelchair Accessible
• Toilet Facilities (WC)
• Guided Tours
• Luxury Coach
• Luxury Minibus
• Executive Coach
• Executive Minibus

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7 the Park, Great Barton, Bury St Edmunds, IP31 2SU, United Kingdom

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How Does it Work ?

Using a travel agent is easy. To begin, complete our new client form. From there, your dedicated agent will contact you through your preferred communication method for more information. We can discuss trips through text, phone, Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, or whatever your preference may be. Once your agent has your information they will double-check for best price and value across multiple tools only accessible to travel agents. After providing you a quote and receiving your approval, your agent will book and manage your trip. You will save time, money and have an overall better experience with one of our industry insiders overseeing your trip.

Where is this? Rosewood  Castiglion  Del Bosco, Tuscany

Christopher Turner

Luxury travel agent, introducing christopher turner, a luxury travel expert based in houston, tx, usa. with a passion for all kinds of travel, christopher specializes in western europe, school groups, and finding the best afternoon tea spots worldwide. he is currently looking forward to an exciting cruise to alaska in april..

Christopher's journey into the world of travel began during his college years when he was studying to become an actor. His study abroad experience in England sparked his love for travel and exploration. This led him to transition into teaching, allowing him more time to explore the world. To date, he has visited 48 states and 15 different countries, with a goal to make it 25 by the end of 2024.

His travels are not just about visiting places; they're about capturing the essence of each destination through stunning photography and short films. Christopher's vast travel knowledge is something he loves to share with as many people as possible.

Recently, he started a new podcast on YouTube called "Tea Time Travels," where he interviews travelers over tea. His favorite place to travel is any beautiful location, but he holds a special fondness for Western Ireland.

Join Christopher Turner on your next adventure and let him guide you to extraordinary experiences.

Become a Client

Need more information? Check out our  New Client  FAQs

Your dedicated agent will reach out shortly.

• What's in the Free Online LuxRally Travel Agent Training Curriculum? Our self-directed curriculum includes but is not limited to: ​ What is a Travel Agent? The LuxRally Mindset Tenets of Sales Quick-Quoting Fundamentals Evaluating Clients Problem Solving Steps of the Sale Closing Techniques How to Use Travel Leaders Select Hotel Benefits Programs Flights and Airlines Hotel Brands Primer Introduction to All-Inclusive Resorts Introduction to Wholesalers How to Use Wholesaler Portals Cruising Primer How to Use Cruise Portals Ancillary Services LuxRally Concierge Services Travel Insurance Accounting and Finance Group Contracts and Tools Booking Groups at All-Inclusive Resorts Booking Groups on Cruises Marketing Basics Fraud and Scam Detection How to Use Our Knowledge Base The curriculum ends with a concluding assessment. Once the self-guided portion of your training is completed your will begin preparing for your practical exam, a hands-on assesment of your sales skills and knowledge. Opportunities for continued learning are offered post-graduation. Thorough GDS training is provided upon request.
• How much does LuxRally Travel's Agent Training cost? Zero. Free. No hidden fees, no catch.
• What other costs might I incur as an agent with LuxRally Travel? We do not charge any annual or monthly fees to our agent. The only cost that our agents are liable for is an annual payment of $51.50, payable directly to the State of Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. We provide assistance to our agents to ensure they understand which payment needs to be made to remain an active agent.
• Do I need experience to become a luxury travel advisor with LuxRally Travel? No, we do not hire prior travel agents. Our methods and philosophies are often opposite to that of traditional travel agencies. For example, we do not believe in charging service fees, and this is something experienced agents cannot wrap their heads around. Additionally, while we enjoy free travel occasionally, we do not believe in FAM culture. FAMs are free group trips for travel agents and often create a conflict of interest between the agents and their clients. Traditional travel agents may send people to a location in exchange for a FAM trip. We find this practice repulsive. The average travel agent makes $46,000 a year; LuxRally Travel agents are trained to make multiples of that. The LuxRally system is best for beginners as it takes more energy for us to fix existing agents than to make new ones.
• Who is a good fit for the LuxRally Travel team? We want general hustlers here to make money and who know how to sell. We want you if you have no sales experience but can prove to us that you are a natural-born hustler. Those with prior sales experience, mortgage brokers, car dealers, jewelers, IT salespeople, concierges, hotel sales managers, medical, pharma, top producing real estate agents, timeshare salespeople, etc., tend to be better at not only understanding the value of their networks but also understand how to advocate for their clients when interacting with vendors. We also look for individuals with large networks that deal primarily with the upper middle class and wealthy and those with a passion for all things travel, especially luxury travel and luxury dining.
• How long does LuxRally's travel agent training take? The training can be broken down into three portions: A Self-Guided Course on Teachable: 50-70 hours (varies by the speed of the individual). This should take you 2-4 weeks. A Launch Meeting on Microsoft Teams: 1-2 hours (scheduled weekly) You Will Have a One Week Period to Prepare for Your Practical Exam A Practical Exam / Final Assessment on Microsoft Teams: 3-4 hours (scheduled weekly) You have four weeks to complete the Teachable portion of your training. If you do not complete the training within four weeks of your enrollment (note: enrollment occurs after your contract is signed/counter-signed), you will be removed from the program. You have three attempts to pass your practical exam. If you fail on your first attempt, you may retake it the following week. You can expect to become an agent within 3-6 weeks, depending on how quickly you complete the teachable and whether you pass your final assessment on the first attempt.
• Do I need anything specific to become a travel agent? From a practical standpoint, you will need a solid computer (preferably with multiple screens), a smartphone, and a current job that allows you to interrupt your day to handle issues for traveling clients. This is a 24/7/365 career. While you will not be working all of the time, clients need to be able to reach you if they experience an emergency while on a trip.
• What is the difference between a travel agent and a travel advisor? There is no real difference; however, travel advisor is often the preferred term for those in the luxury sector.
• Do I need to get my own leads? The short answer is that you will be responsible for getting your own leads and must cultivate a stable source of clients to earn six or seven figures as a Luxury Travel Agent. That being said, we have just launched our FastTrack program. FastTrack gamifies our leads program through a unique credit system, rewarding successful deals with additional credits and providing opportunities to earn more through various tasks. Credits are redeemed for leads. If an agent runs out of credits (because they did not close any leads), they can earn credits through various tasks or wait for their quarterly replenishment. Credits cannot be bought by agents. The Credits system is created to ensure agents with solid close rates work the leads and that agents with low closing rates do not take large quantities of leads. Participating in FastTrack is currently invite only. The program has completed it's pilot and has begun rolling out to other agents as of May 6th, 2024. We are expanding the program to make it accessible to all agents. Agents who score high on their final exam are more likely to be invited into the FastTrack program.
• Do I need to make my own travel brand to be successful? No, it is not a requirement for success. You can use the LuxRally Travel brand to market yourself as an agent. After graduation from our training program and completion of our orientation, you will receive the following: An @LuxRallyTravel.com Email A Landing Page (Agent Profile) on Our Website Access to Branded Templates for Business Cards, Flyers, and Other Promotional Materials Additionally, once you are officially a LuxRally Travel Agent, you will have access to our marketing team to help you create promotional branded materials. Sponsoring an event and need signage? Need help with a social media post? Our team has your back. Now, creating a brand might make sense if you plan on getting leads through SEO or paid ads that require landing pages. However, for most people, creating an independent travel brand is not necessary. Your name will be the brand you will want to focus on. When someone thinks about you i.e., "David Eisen", you want them to automatically think about travel. After completing our training, if you are still determining which path is right for you, we suggest scheduling a one-on-one session with our CMO to evaluate what would be most beneficial to growing a healthy client base. Some agents use social media and personal networks, while others use branded websites and more traditional marketing tactics. It all depends on your situation, networks and background. A simple example would be if your background is in digital marketing. If you have experience in SEO, we would never discourage you from having your own site. We don't make money until you do, so we always provide feedback based on what we think will be practical for ramping up your business. Whatever you choose to do, know that we support both approaches and will provide candid feedback after learning more about your goals.
• What can I earn commission on? Hotel Stays (including groups) Cruises Flights (select flights, not all flights pay commission, you will learn about this in our agent training) Tours Car Service Travel Insurance Rental Cars Private Villas Private Jets Luxury Trains
• How do I get Paid? We offer a commission split based on your received commissions from your client's bookings. It is one of the best commission splits in the industry, starting at 80%/20% in your favor, meaning you keep 80% of what you make. After your first $100,000 in commissions, your split increases to 90%/10%, meaning you keep 90% of what you make. The commission resets each year back to 80%. The most productive LuxRally travel advisors earn multiples of the average travel agent.
• Will I be a fully licensed travel agent after completing the LuxRally Travel Agent Training Program? Yes, after completing our training and orientation, you will be fully licensed under our host agency with all IATA and Seller of Travel licenses required.
• What is the LuxRally Travel Agent Portal? Our comprehensive portal is the one-stop shop for creating clients, making bookings, overseeing your accounting, and more. Instead of getting lost across dozens of systems, our agent portal centralizes all the essential tools you need to be a successful travel agent. These Features include: A Dashboard with Key Statistics About Your Performance, Top Clients, and Top Vendors A Booking Dashboard Where You Can Quickly Make Bookings Directly in the Portal (Launching Q3 2024) Quick Invoicing to Efficiently Complete All Accounting Work Associated With Your Booking Agent Analytics to Take a Deeper Dive Into Your Performance Over Time A CRM to Manage All of Your Client Information in One Place An Accounting Portal to Manage Invoices, Match and Track Commissions, and begin Collections From Vendors For Unpaid Commissions Direct Access to the LuxRally Travel Knowledge Base to Quickly Find Educational Resources Access to a Leads Program to Claim Leads and Track Your Performance (Launching in April 2024) Direct Access to Our "Schedule a 1:1" Feature to Easily Get in Touch With LuxRally Travel Staff When Your Need In-Depth Support in Sales or Marketing Our portal has been designed to minimize the administrative workload on our agents. It is developed in house meaning we make adjustments quickly based on agent feedback.
• What happens after training is over? After training, you become a fully licensed travel agent, ready to sell. We provide access to a superabundance of resources to ensure that all new agents feel welcomed and confident. ​ The LuxRally Group Chat: Our group chat is a go-to for most agents seeking hotel recommendations, assistance with booking tools and third parties, advice on utilizing benefits programs, and general guidance for anything that may come up. LuxRally Agents sign agreements stating they cannot poach each other's clients, allowing our agents to confidently ask for assistance without fear of giving up a promising lead. ​ Continued Mentorship: One-on-One sessions with members from our sales and marketing teams available to our agents. Whether you need a refresher on using a booking tool or lead generation advice, you will have access to a solid mentor. ​ Bi-Weekly Ask Me Anything (AMA) Sessions with David Eisen: David Eisen is not only the founder of LuxRally Travel but is believed to be the highest-grossing single travel agent in the world. Our agents can casually ask David anything travel related on bi-weekly video calls. Bi-Weekly Marketing Round Tables with Courtney Eisen: Courtney Eisen has an extensive marketing background and highlights destinations to focus on, marketing best practices and open format Q&A opportunities. Office Hours With Top Closers: Our top performing agents have open office hour sessions where you can join, ask questions and learn from other agents about specific strategies to better serve clients and increase earnings. ​ Weekly Vendor Chats: Each week, a vendor is invited to a companywide weekly video conference to present educational materials and lead a Q&A. From General Managers of Forbes Five-Star hotels to Mega Yacht experts, our agents have access to continued education directly from industry professionals.
• What if I fail? Follow our training, and, likely, you won't. However, in the rare case you do, you will owe us nothing unless you leave to join another agency. Before parting ways, we will remove you from our website, group chats, and other internal resources. While a tiny percentage of our agents who complete training drop out of the program, we understand that selling travel is not for everyone.
• Why should I choose LuxRally Travel as my host agency? We can confidently say we offer more to our agents than any other host agency with the following: Free, Comprehensive Travel Agent Training We Cover Licensing and Errors and Omissions Insurance for Our Agents We Do Not Charge Our Agents Any Subscription or Membership Fees to be a Part of Our Host Agency Weekly Group Classes One-on-One Sessions Available to All Agents, Even After Training, With Sales and Marketing Teams Competitive Commission Splits (80%/20% vs. 70%/30%), Meaning You Make More Money The Most Advanced Agent Portal on the Market Mentorship From the Highest-grossing Travel Agent in the World Modern Best Practices That Generate Revenue and Maximize Client Satisfaction A Culture of Camaraderie An In-House Team Negotiating Deals for our Agency Directly With Vendors A Comprehensive Knowledge Base Annual Sales Symposiums for In-Person Training and Networking Most importantly, we only make money once you do. We are vested in your success and will do everything possible to give you the best shot in this industry. These are just a few reasons why starting your career as a travel agent with LuxRally Travel is the best move. Lastly, we do not hire people who are already agents, so you will miss out if you ramp up with another host. Our methods are directly opposed to the fee-saturated "best practices" of archaic host agencies, and we've found it takes an immense amount of energy to break the bad habits of existing agents.
• What are the requirements to remain an agent with LuxRally Travel? To maintain your status as an agent with LuxRally Travel, you must meet the following requirements throughout the duration of your time with us: Email Communication: Agents must regularly log into their LuxRally Travel email address. If they have not logged in within 30 days or use an alternate email address for communications, this could affect their standing. Sales Performance: Agents must make at least one sale every 90 days. This can be any sale as long as it is not personal travel (booked by the agent for their own travel). Availability: It's important that agents have ample availability for clients. Limited availability may impact their ability to serve clients effectively. Equipment: Agents need access to a reliable computer to run their travel business. Without this, they may struggle to manage their work efficiently. Community Participation: Being part of the official LuxRally Travel Agent Facebook chat(s) or group(s) is a requirement. This helps agents stay connected and updated with the latest information. These are private channels for agency-related information and support. Revenue Generation: Our agents must sell $30,000 in revenue per year. That would equate to $3,000 a year in commission (an incredibly low number). If you go through our training and cannot hit this small milestone, this is likely not the right career path for you. By meeting these requirements, agents can ensure they maintain their status with LuxRally Travel. Agents who do not meet these requirements are cut from our agency. If you have additional questions regarding this list of requirements, we encourage you to ask them during your interview after applying to our program.
• What are the next steps? Go ahead and apply to join our team. You will be asked to schedule an interview or denied from our program within 24-48 hours.

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Save Everything: Eco-Tourism at Vermejo, A Ted Turner Reserve

Managing director Jade McBride discusses the future of sustainable luxury travel.

By Irenie Forshaw

When Ted Turner bought the sprawling 558,000-acre Vermejo Park Ranch in northern New Mexico from motor oil giant, Pennzoil, back in 1996, his goal was simply to “save everything”. But the media mogul had a long and difficult road ahead.

The property had changed hands countless times over the previous century, to the detriment of the land. “If you go back 100 years, the philosophy was that you could cut down a lot of trees, remove some species, allow invasive animal populations to grow, and add fish to the waters that weren’t native,” says Jade McBride, managing director of Ted Turner Reserves, who lives onsite at Vermejo. “They were using the land in a way that was killing it.”

This changed with the arrival of Ted Turner. His first job was closing down the active open-pit coal mine on the property – the recovery efforts of which are still ongoing today. Over the last 25 years, the American broadcasting entrepreneur and philanthropist has been hard at work restoring the land, and, more recently, breaking into the eco-luxury tourism market to fund ongoing conservation efforts.

[See also: Earth Day: The Luxury Resorts and Hotels Going Green]

The Costilla Lodge offers stunning views of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range / ©Ted Turner Reserves

“Ted recognized that if he were to pass away without a structure in place, the properties were at risk of being sold, broken apart and going back to the way they were before,” explains McBride. “We knew that we needed to generate as much revenue as we could, with as little impact on the land as possible, which led us to the luxury boutique market.”

McBride came on board in 2016 to help make this ambitious goal a reality, taking responsibility for guest operations at all three Ted Turner Reserve properties across New Mexico (Vermejo, Sierra Grande and Ladder). The managing director cut his teeth at Amangiri, a luxury resort in Big Water Utah, where he previously served as mayor. He went on to manage The Ranch at Rock Creek, a high-end resort in Western Montana, overseeing its restructure and path to profitability.

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Drawing on this extensive experience, McBride understood how critical it was to get the local community onside when he joined Ted Turner Reserves. But this wasn’t easy. As the second biggest private landowner in the US (with over 2 million acres to his name), some local residents were suspicious of Ted Turner’s intentions when he acquired Vermejo.

The Ted Turner Suite at Casa Grande, one of the luxurious accommodations at Vermejo / ©Ted Turner Reserves

The opulent Great Room at Casa Grande / ©Ted Turner Reserves

“It was a rocky road at the beginning,” recalls McBride. “When Ted first bought these properties there was a lot of pushback. Like ‘Who’s this rich billionaire buying up the land?’ However, over time a lot of people have realized he’s a fantastic neighbor. His focus was always on buying the land, not for status, but to try and restore the ecosystem, bringing it back to something we could call sustainable and leaving the community of people that surround these properties better off than we found them.”

Conservation work is carried out by a team of specialist wildlife biologists, who live onsite and closely monitor the land. “They spend a lot of time trying to determine what is the healthy number of animals for the ecosystem,” explains McBride. “For example, at Vermejo, that number happens to be 1,400 bison. We could make a lot more money if we grazed 2,800 animals instead, but we’re not going to flood our land with more bison than it can sustain.”

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A similar approach is taken when it comes to tourism, with a limited number of guests able to visit the property’s luxurious accommodation at any one time to ensure minimal impact on the wildlife and surrounding environment.

Any recommendations are reviewed by a host of additional scientists – the Turner Endangered Species Fund and the Turner Biodiversity Group – before being submitted to the Wildlife Committee which makes the final decision on approval.

The property hosts a variety of wildlife including bison, elk, black bears and mountain lions / ©Ted Turner Reserves

For McBride, the biggest conservation success story at Vermejo is the rehabilitation of the endangered Rio Grande cutthroat trout, which is a program that goes back 20 years. This involved cleaning and restoring over 100 miles of stream habitat, and raising the native fish species in captivity before reintroducing them to the wild.

The elk population also had an unexpected role to play. McBride explains that when there are too many elk, they eat more than their fair share of grass which forces animals to start eating grass from the riverbank to survive. In turn, he continues, the riverbanks start to erode and the sun shines directly into the water, causing its temperature to increase. For the Rio Grande cutthroat trout, which thrives in clear, cold streams, this loss of habitat can prove deadly.

So what’s the answer? Quite simply, says McBride, “we had to operate a hunting program to restore the riverbanks and change the elk population from invasive and harmful to what we believe is sustainable.”

The managing director concedes he had initial concerns. “I was very nervous in the beginning when I first got here, the idea that I was going to bring ecotourism to a property that had to hunt – how could we possibly blend those two concepts?” he says.

“But it’s been one of the best things for me to learn about since I’ve been part of the project. And it’s easy for me today to look back at human history and see that we were hunter-gatherers in an extremely sustainable way, feeding our families, using everything from the animal for exactly what we needed. If you dig into the hunting program that Vermejo operates today, it probably looks similar to how it was 500 years ago.”

The efforts have certainly paid off. Today, the native fish has been removed from the endangered species list. “For the first time you can actually fish for and catch a Rio Grande cutthroat trout in water in the wild,” says McBride. “It’s connected to so many different things from riverbank restoration to the predators that all tie this ecosystem back together. It’s a spectacular story.”

Vermejo is home to a large population of wild horses / ©Sean Fitzgerald

This is just one of many opportunities visitors have to fully immerse themselves in the stunning natural environment, with regular wildlife touring experiences to see the herds of bison, elk, deer and antelopes living on the land. “It’s really interesting how many people tell me they can’t believe how much they learned through their vacation here,” says McBride.

“When we talk about the health of our planet, the message we generally hear is a lot of doom and gloom. ‘We’re in trouble. Things are bad.’ And it’s all pretty accurate in my opinion. But what’s so unique about a visit to Vermejo is that you leave with a message of hope. Because what you’re witnessing is a property that was in a very poor condition, that is healing and regenerating itself,” he says.

Of course, McBride is only too aware that to make real progress, these efforts must extend far beyond a single entity. That’s why Ted Turner Reserves was among the founding members of Beyond Green – a network of properties championing sustainable tourism. Each member must demonstrate progress in meeting over 50 indicators that align with the global sustainable tourism standards and United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Every two years, Beyond Green inspectors visit the properties to ensure they are moving towards these targets.

McBride welcomes being held accountable in this way as he believes it means travelers are able to look at the collection of properties and have confidence that the right value system is in place.

The sprawling 550-acre property boasts mountains, forests and 19 lakes / ©Sean Fitzgerald

“The goal of [the members] is that one day we won’t need the collection anymore,” he says. “But I think it’s a long way out. Luxury hospitality brands are going to have to endure in these sustainability efforts for decades – it’s something that needs to be eternal in nature.”

Asked what keeps him awake at night, McBride’s answer is somewhat surprising. “It’s actually our own success,” he admits. “We’ve grown leaps and bounds each season I’ve been here but our success has this problem: it gives us money. And if we’re not careful there’s a real temptation to spend that money on more luxury. So the real challenge we have is to continue to do the right thing as we become more successful – building an organization that is rooted in conservation.”

With McBride at the helm, this will no doubt be a path the company will continue to follow. It’s clear the managing director’s commitment to the cause goes far beyond a day job; he wants to leave his mark on the world.

“When it comes to great examples of sustainable properties, you don’t find them in the United States. They’re just not here,” he says. “So I think we have a very unique opportunity to be a true leader. I’m convinced that it’s not only Ted’s life work and his legacy but it’s also mine. This will be the work that I’ll be proudest of and when I’m a really old guy sitting in a rocking chair, I’ll tell stories to my grandkids about the day I got to be a part of this.”

tedturnerreserves.com

[See also: Discover All of Colorado and New Mexico in One Trip]

Irenie Forshaw

Latest in luxury, the explorer.

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The 10 Coolest Boutique Hotels in St. Petersburg, Florida

St. Petersburg (aka St. Pete) might not get as much attention as nearby Tampa , but spend some time exploring this cool Florida city and chances are you’ll be hungry for more. 

Walk or bike around downtown St. Pete and you’ll find all sorts of seriously impressive street art murals, adorable art deco buildings, buzzing breweries, and creative eateries. Throw into the mix attractions like the Salvador Dalí Museum, Tropicana Field, and nearby St. Pete Beach, and you’ll have endless entertainment! 

With so many things to see and do, you’ll want a nice hotel room to return to at the end of a jam-packed day. But with so many cool places to stay in St. Petersburg, you might have a hard time choosing the perfect hotel. So we’ve created a list of 10 cool boutique hotels in St. Petersburg to help you plan a fun Florida getaway.

• Hollander Hotel
• Prestige Collection – Hotel Boutique
• Moxy St. Petersburg Downtown

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Where to Stay in St. Petersburg

If you don’t plan on driving while you’re in town, staying in one of the many hotels in downtown St. Pete is your best bet. The downtown area is easily walkable and boasts tons of breweries, galleries, restaurants, parks, and more. 

Plus, you can take the free Looper Trolley all around town or take advantage of the PSTA’s new Bus Rapid Transit service, the SunRunner, which takes you “from Beach to ’Burg and anywhere in between.” You can also hop on one of the many bikes using the Coast Bike Share app to get where you want to go.

That being said, if it’s a beach vacation you’re after, you may want to choose a hotel over in St. Pete Beach or Treasure Island, which are both around 15 minutes away from St. Petersburg.

The 10 Best Boutique Hotels in St. Petersburg, FL

1. hollander hotel.

The Hollander Hotel is easily one of the most popular hotels in St. Petersburg, Florida. Not only will you be steps away from downtown’s best breweries, restaurants, and shops, but this place has a lively pool and pool bar where you can sip cocktails under the Florida sun!

When you’re feeling peckish, The Hollander Hotel is home to The Tap Room Bar and Grill Restaurant and Common Grounds coffee shop, making it easy to fuel up for an action-packed day. Plus, the boutique rooms are the epitome of style, featuring dark hardwood floors, cool wall art, flat-screen TVs, microwaves, and minifridges.

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2. Avalon Hotel 

valon Hotel, the sister property of the Hollander Hotel, is another one of the coolest places to stay in St. Petersburg if you’re a fan of all things art deco. Not only will you get thoughtful extras like evening wine and champagne socials, but you’ll get to enjoy all of the amenities of the next-door Hollander Hotel, including the pool!

Expect plenty of neon accents and kitschy touches throughout this unique St. Pete hotel. Plus, you’ll get free parking and complimentary bottled water, coffee, and snacks in the morning. 

The funky, minimalist rooms here are all outfitted with vintage-inspired furnishings, 39-inch flat-screen TVs, ceiling fans, and free Wi-Fi. If you need more space, go for the Apartment-Style Studio Suite.

3. Moxy St. Petersburg Downtown

Opening its doors in 2024, Moxy is one of the newest boutique hotels in St. Petersburg. Plus, Tropicana Field is just steps away, so it’s a great pick if you’re in town for a Rays game!

One of the many things that makes this one of the coolest hotels in St. Pete is that you’ll get a complimentary Got Moxy cocktail at Bar Moxy upon arrival. You’ll also love cooling off in the rooftop pool, getting work done at the Plug & Meet spaces, working out in the 24-hour gym, and drinking and dining at Sparrow Rooftop.

And when it comes to the retro-chic rooms, you’ll love the motion-activated lighting features, 55-inch HDTV, funky artwork, leather lounge chair, and gorgeous bathroom.

4. Prestige Collection – Hotel Boutique

If you’re looking for a boutique experience right in the heart of downtown, Prestige Collection – Hotel Boutique is a fantastic option. This is one of the most convenient places to stay in St. Petersburg if you don’t have a car because you’ll have easy access to the free Looper Trolley route, which will whisk you away to many of the city’s top attractions. 

This unique boutique hotel is set in a revamped art deco home, which is eccentrically decorated with period furnishings and funky artwork. Hotel Boutique boasts eight suites, each outfitted with a plush bed, desk, flat-screen TV, and a uniquely-tiled bathroom.

You’ll love relaxing by the pool in the backyard. There’s also a communal kitchen area that’s always stocked with tea, coffee, snacks, drinks, mugs, and wine glasses, which is a thoughtful feature!

5. The Birchwood

The Birchwood is another gem of a hotel in downtown St. Petersburg. Located on Beach Drive, this waterfront boutique hotel was originally built in 1924 as the Lantern Lane Apartments. The Spanish Mission-style building is now listed in the National Registry of Historic Places and boasts 18 stylish rooms, with features like clawfoot tubs or four-poster beds. 

You’ll be treated to a complimentary breakfast each morning. And in the evenings, there’s no better place to be than the rooftop bar and lounge with a cocktail in hand. Birch & Vine is perfect for a special dinner paired with a bottle from the sommelier-curated wine wall!

6. Mint House St. Petersburg – Downtown

Set in downtown’s buzzing Edge District, Mint House is one of the coolest St. Pete hotels if you’re looking for a home away from home during your vacation. Units here are all studio apartments which offer kitchenettes, washers and dryers, living areas, and private balconies or patios.

If you want to explore town or go to the beach, you’ll be steps away from the SunRunner, which will take you around town, or you can hop on one of the on-site, app-based ZYBRA bikes. Mint House also has a nice pool area, grilling stations, fire pits, and a fitness center. Head downstairs, and you’ll find Intermezzo Coffee and Cocktails, the perfect place to fuel up in the morning or socialize in the evenings.

7. The Exchange Hotel

The Exchange is always a great option if you’re looking for affordable places to stay in St. Petersburg. This boutique hotel features 69 rooms and seven suites, all outfitted with nautically-themed color schemes, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, workstations, and Keurig coffee makers.

You’ll be surrounded by downtown’s best bars, restaurants, and shops, but if you’d prefer to eat at the hotel, The Exchange Bar serves up American dishes and small plates. They also have happy hour drinks from 5-7 pm Monday through Thursday. And don’t worry if you overindulge because there’s a 24-hour fitness center on-site, too!

8. The Inn on Third

Set right in the heart of town, The Inn on Third is a unique option if you prefer a more intimate experience. This historic inn has only 20 guest rooms and offers complimentary extras like continental breakfast, a drink at the Evening Social, Wi-Fi, parking, coffee, tea, and cold water. 

This is consistently one of the most highly-rated hotels in St. Petersburg, so expect excellent customer service, too! In line with the inn’s history, the rooms here feature antique furnishings complemented by modern touches like flat-screen TVs, minifridges, and ensuites with complimentary bath products. 

9. The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club

If you prefer a resort-style stay, The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club might be just what you’re looking for. This is one of the best luxury hotels in St. Pete, and you’ll have exclusive amenities like six bars and restaurants, a prime waterfront location, a world-class golf course, an on-site spa, a 1920s-inspired pool area, and a fitness center. 

And then there are the beautifully decorated rooms, which feature sophisticated mid-century decor, comfy beds dressed in white linens, large flat-screen TVs, Nespresso coffee makers, and glamorous bathrooms with Harry Josh Blow Dryers and Ortigia products.

10. Peninsula Bed & Cocktails

For one of the coolest boutique hotels near St. Pete, it’s well worth looking into Peninsula Bed & Cocktails. Located in Gulfport, just 10 minutes from downtown, this is a place where “mixology meets hospitality,” so expect a truly one-of-a-kind experience!

Each of the boutique rooms here is themed after a famous cocktail from around the world – from the Manhattan Room and the Daiquiri Room to The Mule Suite and the Espresso Martini Suite. While all the whimsical guest rooms are different, you’ll find each outfitted with a fully stocked minibar and cocktail bar, a smart TV, and ensuites with luxury Beekman 1802 bath amenities.

Oh, and you should expect to find expert mixologists in the Lobby Bar waiting to prepare handcrafted cocktails for you, too!

That completes our list of the 10 best hotels in St. Petersburg, Florida!

Justine is a writer and editor who always seems to take the unconventional route in life. She also suffers from a serious case of wanderlust! In 2013, she left her hometown in California and set off on a yearlong round-the-world journey with her now-husband – they never looked back. Since then, she’s lived the expat life in Indonesia, Cambodia, China, Vietnam, Mexico, and now Dubai. Along the way, she's written and edited for magazines, newspapers, and websites in Asia and beyond. When she's not stoking her wanderlust by working on travel articles for Wandering Wheatleys, Justine is busy caring for her many foster cats in Dubai, seeking out all the delicious vegetarian food, and taking every chance she gets to explore a new corner of the world!

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More From Forbes

One haute yacht, the spirit bartech f35 owns speed, style, and control.

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The Spirit Yachts BARTech F35's stylish design dovetails classic lines with modern technology, ... [+] flying on foils while taking on the appearance of a golden era film star.

BAR Technologies and Spirit Yachts dovetailed talent and expertise to deliver a chic luxury launch in May of 2023, the Spirit BARTech F35 . With a gleaming mahogany skin and a nostalgic profile taking inspiration from the Rum Runners of the 1920s, the F35 is a distinctive, scene-stealing craft.

The first fully electric yacht to own a 100 nautical mile range, the F35 flies on foils while powering ahead at what is described as thrilling speed, courtesy of its electric motor and battery system. The yacht set a speed record for the circumnavigation around the Isle of Wight for electric vessels, slashing the existing best time from six hours to just one hour and 56 minutes.

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UK firm BAR Technologies , branched from Ben Ainslee Racing, employs advanced strategies and innovations to deliver efficient, sustainable solutions in answer to client requests. Using Artificial Intelligence, Computational Fluid Dynamics, Design Optimization, Finite Element Analysis, Performance Analysis, and expertise gained from America's Cup designs, BAR Technologies appears at the forefront of engineering for leisure craft as well as commercial vessels and work boats, delivering systems that are sustainable with an emphasis on exceptional results.

Ipswich, Suffolk, UK-based Spirit Yachts is known for precision woodworking and classic yacht design placing an emphasis on sustainable methods and materials. Universally recognized for a high quality aesthetic and functional purpose, Spirit Yachts builds custom wooden motor and sailing yachts. They are experts in creating everything from day sailors and performance racing yachts to blue water cruisers. And, as they point out on their website, occasionally the owner's brief requesting the design embraces all three.

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How Many People Were at Tina Turner’s Concert in Barcelona?

By Robert Palmer

Tina Turner, the legendary Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll, recently performed a spectacular concert in Barcelona that left fans in awe. The venue was buzzing with excitement as thousands of people gathered to witness this once-in-a-lifetime event.

The concert took place at the renowned Palau Sant Jordi, an indoor arena located on Montjuïc mountain. With its impressive architecture and seating capacity of over 17,000, it provided the perfect setting for Tina Turner’s electrifying performance.

The Attendance

So, just how many people were lucky enough to attend Tina Turner’s concert in Barcelona? Well, the answer is staggering. The Palau Sant Jordi was filled to its maximum capacity as more than 17,000 enthusiastic fans from all walks of life came together to celebrate the music icon.

A Diverse Crowd

The audience at Tina Turner’s concert in Barcelona was a melting pot of different ages and nationalities. Fans young and old united under one roof to experience the magic that only Tina can deliver. From lifelong devotees who have followed her career since the early days to a new generation discovering her timeless hits, everyone was there to pay homage to this living legend.

An Unforgettable Night

As soon as Tina Turner stepped onto the stage amidst roaring applause and flashing lights, she commanded the entire arena’s attention. Her powerful voice filled every corner as she belted out her greatest hits like “Proud Mary,” “What’s Love Got To Do With It,” and “Simply The Best.”

In true Tina Turner fashion, her energetic dance moves and captivating stage presence had the crowd dancing in their seats. From start to finish, it was an unforgettable night that will forever be etched in the memories of those lucky enough to be present.

• 17,000 fans gathered at the Palau Sant Jordi
• A diverse crowd of all ages and nationalities
• Tina Turner delivered an electrifying performance
• Her greatest hits had the audience singing along
• An unforgettable night that will be cherished forever

Tina Turner’s concert in Barcelona was a monumental event that brought together thousands of fans from around the world. The Palau Sant Jordi was filled to capacity as people eagerly awaited the arrival of this music icon. Tina’s performance was nothing short of extraordinary, leaving everyone in awe of her talent and showmanship.

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Home » Europe » St. Petersburg

11 BEST Places to Visit in St. Petersburg (2024)

Moscow may be the capital of Russia, but if you’re a culture vulture, then St. Petersburg is the city for you. A port city on the Baltic Sea, it offers everything you could want from a city break and more.

Founded in 1703 by Peter the Great, it is home to some of the most impressive architecture and art in the whole of Russia. There’s so much to do here, it can be hard putting together your Saint Petersburg itinerary. That’s where I come in!

The city is chock full of palaces, parks, cathedrals, and theatres, and there are far too many to fit into one visit, so only my favourites have made the list of the best places to visit in St. Petersburg.

I’ve also thrown in a few off the beaten track and unusual places to make sure you get to see all the best attractions in Saint Petersburg, as well as some hidden gems that only the locals know about!

So, when you’re ready, let’s take a look at the best places to visit in St. Petersburg.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in St. Petersburg:

These are the best places to visit in st. petersburg, faq on the best places to visit in st petersburg, final thoughts on places to visit in saint petersburg.

The Tsentralny District is the beating heart of St Petersburg. It sits at the centre of the action and is home to some of the cities most famous and fascinating landmarks, including the Winter Palace and St Isaac’s Cathedral.

• Browse the State Rooms of the Stroganov Palace.
• Climb to the top of St Isaac’s Cathedral and enjoy the views.
• Delve deep into the history of Russia’s royal family at the spectacular Winter Palace.

Visiting the BEST places in any city should be accompanied by the BEST accommodation, but that requires knowledge of the BEST areas of the city and where to find it.

I’ve got you covered! Be sure to check out where to stay in St. Petersburg and then you may enter the palace below!

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#1 – State Hermitage Museum – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in St. Petersburg

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• One of the world’s greatest treasuries of art and antiquities
• See the intricate and beautiful peacock clock – it’s amazing
• The hermitage museum is spread out across several sites

Why it’s awesome: No St. Petersburg itinerary is complete without a visit to the State Hermitage Museum. Not only is it one of the most astounding hermitage museums in Russia, but the entire world!

I’d recommend setting aside a whole day for visiting St. Petersburg’s Hermitage Museum. Incredibly, there are over 3 million works from around the world here! If you are short of time, you can marvel at the incredible outside facade from the palace square, as the building itself is just as beautiful as the exhibits inside.

The main building is the Winter Palace, which houses Greek and Roman antiquities, centuries of European art, and the staterooms of the Russian Imperial family from the 18th and 19th centuries! The whole palace is full of russian art and historic pieces that are truly special to this museum.

If you liked the Winter Palace, Catherine Palace is another marble palace worth checking out. It’s the summer residence of the Russian tsars and is a World Heritage Site. The building itself is stunning as the stucco details are drowned in gold. The north-side carriage courtyard is particularly stunning. But, it is a bit of a distance out of the city center so if you are running low on time and can only see one, go to the State Hermitage Museum.

What to do there: If you aren’t blessed with a lot of time for the museum, take a guided tour to see the highlights. One of the most curious things you won’t want to miss is the peacock clock.

The mechanical 18th century automated clock still sings today. It’s the largest example of 18th-century robotics that has survived to the present day without any alterations!

Some housekeeping – since the museum is so big it’s a great idea to get a map which covers the 6 buildings. That way, you can choose the things you’re most interested in.

It’s absolutely impossible to see everything! Also, the museum can get very popular in summer, so consider purchasing skip the line tickets!

#2 – Mariinsky Theatre

• See a ballet performance from the “Imperial Ballet of Russia”
• A world-class concert hall
• One of the most renowned cultural attractions in St. Petersburg

Why it’s awesome: This huge theatre is one of the most famous in the world. Built-in the 19th century, for over 150 years it has hosted some of the best actors, performers, and dancers in the world.

Although you can see operas and plays at the Mariinsky, it’s best known for ballet. In fact, this used to be known as the Imperial Ballet of Russia, so that should give you some idea of how revered it was (and still is)! Recently, the theatre has expanded.

In 2006, it added the concert hall and a second stage for opera and ballet in 2013!

What to do there: If you’re limited on a budget or time, you may not be able to extend to a show at the Mariisnky Theatre.

Although that’s a shame, it doesn’t mean you have to miss out completely. We’d definitely recommend taking a tour around the grand auditorium, one of the most beautiful and richly decorated in the world.

If your budget does cover it, don’t miss a show at this incredible place off your St. Petersburg itinerary. It’s also a great place to admire from the outside. Make sure you get pictures of the colourful buildings from Theatre Square!

With a Saint Petersburg City Pass , you can experience the best of St. Petersburg at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

#3 – Saviour on the Spilled Blood – One of the best religious places to see in St. Petersburg

• The most unique places of worship in the city
• Home to one of the world’s biggest collections of mosaics
• One of the most recognizable landmarks in St. Petersburg

Why it’s awesome: This incredible church known as Savior on Spilled Blood, was built on the site where Tsar Alexander II was killed in an attack, which explains its macabre and graphic name of “spilled blood”.

Although St. Petersburg is filled with churches, this is arguably the most beautiful, and the reason it’s made it onto our list! The colourful church is just as bright and gaudy on the inside, where you’ll find one of the world’s biggest collection of mosaics.

Most people compare this to St Basil’s Cathedral in Russia, another of the country’s most famous landmarks!

What to do there: Any guided tour of the city will take you past the Saviour of the Spilled Blood Cathedral. Probably more than once! That’s because it’s right by the State Russian Museum, and plenty of other attractions are nearby. Also, Alexander II was a very important figure in Russian history.

If you have time, it’s definitely worth getting an hour-long audio tour of the church. It’ll tell you about the church’s history and construction.

Another religious building well worth your time when you travel to St. Petersburg is St Isaac’s Cathedral and Colonnade. It’s easily recognizable by its golden dome!

#4 – Peterhof Palace – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in St. Petersburg

• Once the main summer residence of the Russian Tsars
• Excellent location overlooking the Gulf of Finland
• Have a picnic in the Lower Park

Why it’s awesome: Since it’s located 45 minutes from the city, you’ll need to dedicate at least half a day to visiting Peterhof Palace. However, it’s well worth it!

Situated on the Gulf of Finland, this opulent palace is also known as the “Russian Versailles”. It’s not hard to see why, whether that’s down to the gilded domes, or the fountains throughout the extensive landscaped gardens.

Unbelievably, there are more than 60 fountains and 200 sculptures throughout the gardens at Peterhof. The most famous, The Grand Cascade, is one of the must-see St. Petersburg attractions!

What to do there: Don’t miss going inside the stunning Peterhof Palace. Classic staterooms, the ornate Ceremonial Staircase, and the Grand Ballroom are just some of the highlights of the interior.

Outside, there’s more to the gardens than just the incredible selection of fountains! The Lower Park has a canal that empties straight out into the Gulf of Finland and is a great spot to have a picnic.

Like many other St Petersburg attractions on this list, Peterhof gets very busy in summer. It’s definitely worth booking your ticket in advance, especially if they enable you to skip the queues!

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#5 – Tsarskoye Selo and the Amber Room

• Experience the lavish wealth of the Romanov Imperial Family
• See a recreation of the Amber Room, thought to be lost in World War II
• One of the most famous attractions in St. Petersburg

Why it’s awesome: By now, you’ve probably realized that the palaces in St. Petersburg are pretty extravagant. It’s possible that the 18th century Tsarskoye Selo is the most opulent and lavish of them all, built for Empress Elizabeth by the architect responsible for the Winter Palace, Bartolomeo Rastrelli.

It’s a day trip out of the city, to the town of Pushkin, widely regarded as one of the prettiest neighbourhoods in St. Petersburg. The Amber Room is undoubtedly a highlight. Thought to be lost forever in the Second World War, the painstaking reconstruction of the room is impressive nonetheless!

What to do there: As well as visiting Tsarskoye Selo, while you’re in Pushkin there are a few other cool places to check out.

One of the top attractions in St. Petersburg is Catherine Palace, where you’ll find the Amber Room. Attached to that is also the Catherine garden, which is landscaped with a variety of English, French, and Italian techniques.

If you want to find somewhere a little quieter to escape to, check out Alexander Park. They’re a little more overgrown and spread out, but there are some interesting buildings hidden away in there!

#6 – Museum of Hygiene – Quite the quirky place to visit in St. Petersburg

• Educate yourself on the dangers of germs and disease
• See one of Pavlov’s dogs!
• One of the more unusual points of interest in Saint Petersburg

Why it’s awesome: Yes, St. Petersburg is fascinating. However, if you’re just visiting palaces and cathedrals, it’s definitely not out of the question that you’ll get palace fatigue. You can only take so much of walking around all those long hallways and being astounded by art after all!

For a perfect tonic, head to the unusual Museum of Hygiene. It was established in the early 20th century to educate the city’s locals on good health practices. It’s especially worth a visit if you want to learn about the gruesome medical practices from the turn of the last century!

What to do there: There’s plenty to see in the display cabinets here that you won’t find anywhere else in St. Petersburg! Check out both female and male models with movable internal organs, wax anatomy models, and even some displays explaining the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.

Perhaps don’t eat before you visit here! One of the coolest displays you’ll see is Pavlov’s taxidermy dog. This may not be one of the most famous places in St. Petersburg, but it’s certainly worth a visit. Especially if you’re into science!

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#7 – Grand Maket Rossiya (Grand Model of Russia) – One of the more unique places to visit in St. Petersburg

• Rent binoculars to see the whole scale of this cool recreation of Russia
• The second biggest model in the world
• See all of Russia’s most important cultural and geographical attractions in just one day!

Why it’s awesome: If you don’t have time to cover all 17 million kilometres of Russia (and let’s face it, who does?), then this is your next best opportunity! The Grand Model of Russia is the second biggest model in the world after Miniatur Wunderland in Hamburg.

It’s not entirely to scale, but it does mean you can visit Moscow, the Ural Mountains, and Vladivostok all on the same day! There is 2.5km of train tracks which miniature trains run on, and over half a million LED lights, which you’re guaranteed to see as a day only lasts 15 minutes!

What to do there: Russia is so big that it may not even be possible to get around the whole model of it one day! If that’s the case, rent a pair of binoculars so you can take in the whole of this amazing model. If you do have a bit more time, fantastic.

You can have a go at controlling some parts of the model yourself! There are buttons on the side where you can control the speeds of the cars and trains in the model. Sometimes it’s just enough to watch what’s going on though.

Old women feeding their chickens, a tiny UFO, and escaping prisoners are all part of one of the most unusual attractions in St. Petersburg!

#8 – Nevsky Prospekt

• 5km street dissecting the city from east to west
• Great for shopping – high end boutiques and designer shops here
• Check out some of the best places to eat in Saint Petersburg

Why it’s awesome: One of the most bustling streets you’ll find anywhere, the central avenue Nevsky Prospekt is considered one of the greatest streets in the world.

As well as the Hermitage and the Mariinsky theatre, you’ll find some places that didn’t make our list of the best places to visit in St. Petersburg but are still worth your time!

These include Kazan Cathedral, the House of Books, and the Eliseyev Emporium. Just be careful when you’re crossing – much of the street is 4 lanes on each side!

What to do there: If you’re visiting St. Petersburg, you’re bound to end up on this thoroughfare at some point. It was originally planned as one of the roads to Moscow but is now one of the central points of restaurants for tourists!

If you want to walk the whole length of Nevsky Prospekt, you’ll need at least two hours, and possibly a little more if you’re to take in its major sights.

As well as historical and cultural sites, make sure to stop off to window shop at some of the city’s most exclusive boutiques, or sample Russian delicacies at the best places to eat in St. Petersburg.

#9 – St. Petersburg Metro – A great place to see in St. Petersburg if you love architecture

• How to see Saint Petersburg in more ways than one
• Marvel at the Grand columns of Avtovo Station
• Some of the coolest architecture in the city

Why it’s awesome: St. Petersburg’s rapid transit system is about more than just getting from A to B. The stations here are opulent and rival the palaces and cathedrals above ground for their intricate architecture.

Although walking is often the best way to see a city, don’t miss out on taking the metro – even if it’s just to be astounded by the beauty of the stations!

What to do there: Moscow’s subway was the first built in Russia and St. Petersburg’s system was designed to mimic its beautiful architecture.

All 8 lines on the first line built-in 1955 are considered places of cultural significance. Check out the grand marble and glass columns of Avtovo Station and the sport-themed Sportivnaya. Spending a day on the metro may seem boring, but not here in St. Petersburg!

#10 – Slam City – A great place to visit in St. Petersburg at night!

• A great example of alternative St. Petersburg nightlife
• See live performances from local musicians
• A club run by cassette-focused Russian record label

Why it’s awesome: Saint-Brooklynsburg is a cassette-focused Russian record label, but what on earth is that? Well, it’s responsible for one of the coolest additions to the city’s nightlife scene.

The music mixes American-style garage rock with old-school cassettes to give a very distinctive sound. The club has super cool décor, and it’s the perfect place to spend a party at night after a day visiting the museums and palaces of the city!

What to do there: Don’t miss a live performance from one of the coolest bands on the city’s music scene! The dress code is pretty extravagant, so make sure you pick out your brightest colours to fit in!

Slam City is at its most vibrant and raucous on a weekend, so go then if you can. It’s a St. Petersburg must-do if you want to experience the city’s alternative music scene!

#11 – Peter and Paul Fortress – The city’s historic citadel

• A great example of historic Russian empire defences
• A quick attraction to visit on a stop-over
• Intricate Baroque detailing throughout

Why it’s awesome: The Peter and Paul fortress is the original citadel of the city found on a small island facing the Neva River. It was built in 1703 by Peter the Great when the Russian empire was the strongest empire in Eastern Europe. For a long time, it served as a prison for political criminals, from the early 1700s until the early 1920s.

It was designed by Domenico Trezzini, Peter’s court architect and the pioneer of the Petrine Baroque style that was introduced by the Russian Empire. The complex has six bastions (each named after close associates of Peter) with intertwining stone curtain walls. The structures have been adapted and embellished over the years, and while it is beautiful, whether it was actually a good defensive structure has been up for debate.

Within the fortress is the Peter and Paul Cathedral, which was one of the first buildings to have been made. Originally it was made of wood and consecrated on 1 April 1704, but it was eventually replaced with stone a decade or so later.

What to do here: You can wander around the entirety of the Peter and Paul Fortress and visit the cathedral inside. The whole complex isn’t huge, it’s like a village inside a high wall, but it has a lot of intricate detailing that you might like to stop and marvel at.

It’s located right in the heart of the city center so it’s one of the best Saint Petersburg attractions to visit for a short stop-over. Across the river you will find the Palace Bridge, leading to Palace Square and the State Russian Museum.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Saint Petersburg

What is a free place to visit in St Petersburg?

Nevsky Prospekt is a free place to visit, but as it’s famous for its shopping, you might want to bring your wallet with you. Otherwise, it’s a great free place to visit to admire the architecture.

Is St Petersburg Russia worth visiting?

Yes, St Petersburg is worth visiting if you’re a fan of architecture and art.

What is St Petersburg Russia famous for?

St Petersburg is the cultural capital of Russia and is famous for its Baroque and neoclassical architecture, cathedrals and palaces.

Is St Petersburg in Russia a safe place to visit?

St Petersburg is generally a safe place to visit for tourists. Most crimes are not directed at tourists but you should always keep an eye out for pick pockets.

So, that concludes my list of the best places to visit in St. Petersburg. I hope that you’ve found it useful and helpful in planning your trip!

I think the 11 places we’ve chosen are just enough places to visit in Saint Petersburg in 3 days. However, if you’re planning on staying longer, you’ll certainly find that there’s more to do.

I hope that my list has not only showed you how to visit Saint Petersburg, but how to live like a local too. As well as seeing all the most famous attractions the city has to offer, you’ll get off the beaten track too. Who knows, you may even make Russian friends and practice your language skills?!

Just make sure that whatever you do on your trip, you’re armed with our list of the best places to visit in Saint Petersburg. It’ll help you plan out your holiday and really help you to make the most of your vacation!

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

Alya and Campbell

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