If you thought that electric vehicles are a new fad invented to save the planet from ecological disaster, think again! Long before gas-guzzling motor cars blocked the roads and ruined city centres, electric transport - namely trams and trolley-buses - were in wide use. They still are in some cities, but the fabulous Museum in St Petersburg celebrates them in all their retro forms.
The museum has exhibits that go through the entire fascinating history of city transport, a real insight into the cultural and social history of this amazing city. The best bit though is that it is interactive - you can actually ride some of the retro vehicles. For example, the bright red tourist tram ‪#‎1 (obviously) is a frequent site around the city - I often catch sight of it outside the mosque on Petrogradskaya. It's probably because the tram leaves to a timetable from the museum at 10:00, 13:00, 16:00 on weekdays, and on the hour from 10:00 to 19:00 at weekends. Guests can sit on a wooden seat and enjoy gliding around the city, passing a host of sights en route. It's a great way to see the city, and a far better experience than any hop-on, hop-off double-decker bus experience.
Explore cities like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Saint Petersburg guide.
"Berthold Centre" in St. Petersburg creates cozy and historic vibes with its big umbrella yard. I always have trouble deciding between the pizza & syrniki!
By
The "Chaev Mansion" in St. Petersburg is a dental clinic that's actually in an old pre-revolutionary mansion! You can't miss it...
By
"The Manege" in Saint Petersburg isn't just a place for trade fairs anymore -- the art exhibitions in this historical riding hall are just stunning!
By
You are likely to see sunbathers and swimmers past St Peters and Paul Fortress on Troitsky bridge on any sunny day in Saint Petersburg -- or ice fishers!
By
"Mariniere by Maison de Zhirobas" is one of the best seasonal restaurants, with the best seafood in Saint Petersburg! Not pretentious at all, either...
By
Getting a ride on a marshrutka in Saint Petersburg is a small taste of local life, but getting the front seat -- that's a ride to rival a rollercoaster!
By
"Doroga Zhizni Memorial", or The Road of Life, is a memorial to the 900 days of the Siege of Leningrad. You should also check out the famous marathon...
By
"Eat Market" is a gourmet gastro-bar dining heaven in retail mall Galeria in St. Pete -- brought to you us by the masterminds behind Vasilievsky Market!
By
"Dovlatov Statue" in Saint Peterburg is in the city's unoffical nightlife center. The spirit of this rebel continues to live on this street every day...
By
"AF Brew Taproom" in Saint Petersburg is a beer enthusiast's dream! It's so fashionably hip it hurts & its vaulted ceiling is reminiscent of an old church.
By
"Stiglitz Drawing Academy" is probably one of Saint Petersburg's most underrated gems. It really makes me feel I've been transported to 19th-century Paris.
By
106 Insider Tips from Locals
Authentic Stories
Escape the Crowds
Full Access to our Art & culture Blog & App!
✓ 106 Hidden Gems only Locals know
✓ Full Access to the Art & culture City Blog & App!