St. Petersburg is undoubtedly one of Europe’s most beautiful cities and is celebrated as Russia’s cultural and gastro capital. A magnificent destination where imperial grandeur, architectural masterpieces, and centuries of artistic heritage create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else. From world-renowned museums and historic palaces to celebrated theatres, elegant canals and remarkable cultural landmarks, the city offers an extraordinary wealth of experiences. Beyond its fascinating history, St. Petersburg is also home to an impressive world of refined hospitality, exceptional gastronomy, wellness and entertainment.
For 2026, the CHIC ICON team has carefully curated a selection of the city’s finest addresses and experiences, bringing together what we consider the very best of St. Petersburg. From outstanding luxury hotels and distinguished restaurants to remarkable gourmet discoveries, exceptional wellness destinations, and exclusive leisure experiences.
Whether visiting for the first time or returning to rediscover the city, let this St. Petersburg guide introduce you to the city at its finest — through the distinctive perspective of CHIC ICON, where cultural discovery meets contemporary luxury.
Best Hotels
Four Seasons Lion Palace
For those seeking to experience the true grandeur of St. Petersburg, Four Seasons Hotel Lion Palace is undoubtedly the place to stay. Set within the magnificent 19th-century Lobanov-Rostovsky Palace, an architectural landmark designed by Auguste de Montferrand, the hotel brings the elegance of Imperial Russia into the present day. Its majestic interiors, marble staircases, intricate detailing, and beautifully appointed rooms create an atmosphere of timeless sophistication, transporting guests to another era.
Beyond its remarkable architecture, the hotel distinguishes itself through exceptional hospitality, outstanding gastronomy at its signature restaurants, and the refined Luceo Spa, offering a welcome retreat from the city’s cultural discoveries. Perfectly positioned beside St. Isaac’s Cathedral, it combines heritage, great location, and contemporary luxury. More than simply a place to stay, it is an opportunity to experience St. Petersburg in all its imperial splendour.
Address: Voznesensky Ave, 1
Phone: +7 812 339-80-00
Website, Instagram
Corinthia St Petersburg
Occupying a prestigious address on Nevsky Prospekt, Corinthia St Petersburg places guests at the very heart of the city, with its grand historic avenues and architectural landmarks unfolding just beyond the doors. The rooms offer beautiful views over the city, while the exceptionally spacious and elegant Presidential Suite is particularly worth experiencing, with sweeping panoramas of Nevsky Prospekt.
We highly recommend breakfast in the privacy of the suite: an exquisite spread, thoughtfully presented, with beautiful Russian-inspired tableware and an impressive selection of delicacies. The hotel’s restaurant and generous buffet breakfast offer further opportunities to explore its gastronomy. For those wishing to maintain their routine, the fitness centre is another highlight, with views across the historic cityscape. A refined address for discovering St. Petersburg in comfort and style.
Address: Nevsky Ave, 57
Phone: 8 (812) 380-20-01
Website, Instagram
Best Health & Beauty Spots
BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE
Established in 2018, BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE clinic has become one of St. Petersburg’s notable destinations for aesthetic medicine, bringing together advanced technology, experienced specialists, and a comprehensive approach to beauty and wellbeing. With two locations across in St. Petersburg, the clinic offers an extensive portfolio of treatments, supported by an impressive collection of premium aesthetic equipment, featuring more than 50 advanced devices. Its technological offering includes some of the most sought-after names in modern aesthetic medicine: Ultraformer III for non-surgical lifting, Volnewmer monopolar RF lifting, Morpheus8 for radiofrequency skin rejuvenation, DEKA CO₂ laser resurfacing, as well as M22, Lumecca and other sophisticated laser platforms.
The facial treatment menu is equally extensive. From HydraFacial and Geneo Plus technologies to personalised skin programmes using professional cosmeceutical brands such as HydroPeptide, Ultraceuticals and other leading skincare houses, the focus is on tailored solutions and visible results. Additional options include deep cleansing, hydration, chemical peels, skin renewal, LED therapy and specialised anti-ageing protocols. The clinic also offers an extensive selection of facial and body massages, lymphatic drainage, body sculpting, anti-cellulite programmes and treatments designed to improve skin quality, tone and contour. Highlights include the exclusive Body Portfolio and Body Contoure protocols, developed by the clinic’s CMO, Elizaveta Yuryevna Lesenko. Her signature methodology has received recognition at the International Scientific Conference on Plastic Surgery.
BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE clinic extends well beyond traditional cosmetology. Its multidisciplinary approach brings together aesthetic medicine, dentistry, gynaecology and professional nutritional consultations, allowing guests to address a variety of beauty and wellness needs under one roof. Individual programmes can combine different disciplines to support a more comprehensive approach to personal care.
Whether the objective is skin rejuvenation, facial contouring, body refinement or a personalised beauty ritual, BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE clinic offers an impressive combination of innovation, expertise and choice. Its extensive technological resources, diverse treatment portfolio and two convenient city locations make it a noteworthy address on St. Petersburg’s luxury beauty map.
Address: Dumskaya St., 4 Lit A; Tashkentskaya St. 3 K.3, Lit.А, 3rd floor
Phone: +7 812 643-20-06
Website, Instagram
Fonarnye Baths
A visit to Russia would hardly be complete without experiencing its traditional bathing culture. In St Petersburg, Fonarnye Baths offer one of the city’s most distinguished settings for this quintessential Russian ritual. Dating back to 1871, the baths were commissioned by merchant Mikhail Voronin and designed by architect Pavel Suzor, who later became known for creating the iconic Singer House on Nevsky Prospekt. Originally known as the Voronin Baths, the establishment earned its present name from nearby Fonarny Lane. For generations, it served as a gathering place for the city’s residents, becoming part of St Petersburg’s cultural life.
Following an extensive restoration, Fonarnye Baths reopened in 2021, preserving their historical character while introducing contemporary wellness facilities. Original architectural details, ornate interiors and carefully restored decorative elements create a distinctive atmosphere across the complex’s bathing spaces.
Today, guests can experience traditional Russian steam rooms, venik treatments, hammam rituals, pools and bespoke body treatments. The experience combines centuries-old bathing traditions with the comfort and service expected of a premium wellness destination. More than just a spa, Fonarnye Baths offer an authentic introduction to Russian culture — and an essential stop for anyone seeking to experience St. Petersburg beyond its palaces and museums.
Address: Fonarny pereulok, 1
Phone: +7 (812) 317-03-43
Website, Instagram
Best Restaurants
Bourgeois Bohemians (BOBO)
Year after year, Bourgeois Bohemians (BOBO) earns its place among the CHIC ICON editorial team’s selection of St. Petersburg’s finest restaurants. Founded by brothers Artyom and Alexey Grebenshchikov, it has become a benchmark for contemporary Russian gastronomy, recognised as Russia’s Best Restaurant by WhereToEat in 2024, 2025 and 2026.
At the heart of BOBO’s identity are its tasting menus, refreshed twice a year to reflect the changing seasons. Alongside these spring–summer and autumn–winter creations, the restaurant also offers a special festive New Year menu for a limited period — an experience well worth seeking out.
The current XVII Signature set, Gateway to the City, is an exploration of St. Petersburg through its history, culture and people. Created in dialogue with artists from the Kruzhok creative collective, the menu brings together contemporary gastronomy and artistic expression, with each collaboration offering a distinctive interpretation through form, materials and aesthetics. Yet BOBO’s brilliance extends far beyond its creativity. The atmosphere is elegant yet wonderfully comfortable, while every course demonstrates remarkable precision, imagination and technical mastery. The wine pairings deserve equal attention, guided by a thoughtful sommelier and an impressive collection that complements the complexity of the cuisine.
Address: Vilenskiy Pereulok, 15
Phone: 8 (911) 149-17-70
Website, Instagram
Ryba na Dache
Among our favourite restaurants in St. Petersburg, Ryba na Dache holds a special place. This is our favourite countryside escape, where exceptional comfort food meets the tranquil beauty of the Russian landscape. Set on the banks of the Sestra River in Sestroretsk, the restaurant occupies a spacious wooden house surrounded by lush greenery. On a sunny day, its generous terrace is the perfect place to linger over lunch, enjoying the peaceful riverside scenery. Inside, natural wood, soft lighting and an impressive wood-burning fireplace at the heart of the dining room create the warmth of a private country home.
The menu is equally inviting. We particularly recommend the dishes prepared in the oven, served in generous pots for sharing. Our favourites are the traditional lamb chanakhi and the lamb shoulder, slow-cooked for an extraordinary 18 hours until beautifully tender. A visit would hardly be complete without sampling the charcoal-grilled shashlik, juicy lyulya kebabs, signature rib-eye steak or the restaurant’s own smoked meats. Freshly smoked mackerel or trout, prepared over alder wood, is another highlight. Save room for dessert, too: the kitchen’s freshly baked pie of the day is a delightful finishing touch.
At Ryba na Dache, dining is less about formality than the pleasure of good food, nature, and unhurried moments shared around the table.
Address: Primorskoye Hwy, 319А, Sestrorezk
Phone: +7 812 918-69-70
Website, Instagram
jidai
jidai is a new star on the culinary horizon of St. Petersburg and, without question, one of the city’s finest Japanese restaurants — quite possibly its best. Led by chef Alexey Kogay, the restaurant combines Japanese culinary traditions with a contemporary sensibility and an uncompromising focus on ingredient quality. Many products are flown in directly from Japan, a commitment that is evident in their exceptional freshness and flavour.
The stylish interior draws inspiration from Japanese aesthetics, creating an elegant, understated setting for a memorable dining experience. The bar menu deserves special mention, offering an impressive selection to complement the cuisine.
Choosing favourites from the main menu is no easy task, as almost everything deserves a recommendation. Start with the Hokkaido milk buns served with seaweed butter, followed by the delicate bluefin tuna with truffle ponzu. The oysters are wonderfully fresh, as is the Murmansk salmon. Bluefin tuna nigiri, particularly the fatty toro cut, is a must-try — so silky it practically melts in the mouth. Sea urchin roe and the selection of hand rolls are equally worth exploring. Among the maki, our favourite is the Kamchatka crab with avocado and tobiko. For the main course, the premium A5-grade Wagyu beef is essential, while the grilled chicken with teriyaki sauce is another excellent choice. Finish with mochi for a sweet taste of Japan. jidai is a destination for anyone who appreciates exceptional Japanese cuisine.
Address: Naberezhnaya Admirala Lazareva, 22
Phone: +7 812 223-03-68
Website, Instagram
Da Manu
Part of Aram Mnatsakanov’s Restaurants, Da Manu brings the warmth and effortless charm of Italian dining to one of St. Petersburg’s most beautiful central locations, just steps from St. Isaac’s Square. The restaurant’s elegant interior creates a welcoming atmosphere, while its terrace becomes one of our favourite places for dinner whenever the weather allows. There is something particularly enjoyable about spending a summer evening here, surrounded by the city’s historic architecture and the gentle rhythm of its streets.
The menu offers a generous selection of Italian classics, prepared with care and quality ingredients. Among our favourite starters is vitello tonnato, while the pasta selection deserves particular attention. We especially love the maltagliati with duck ragù — a rich, comforting dish that captures the appeal of traditional Italian cooking. Pizza is another reason to visit. We recommend trying the black truffle pizza, as well as the combination of salmon and black caviar, both offering a distinctive take on an Italian favourite. Desserts are equally tempting. Our personal favourite is the slow-cooked apricots served with mascarpone and walnuts — a lovely way to finish the meal.
For us, Da Manu is a wonderful address for authentic Italian flavours, beautiful surroundings and relaxed dining in the heart of St. Petersburg.
Address: Bol’shaya Morskaya St., 36
Phone: +7 921 918-69-95
Website, Instagram
Il Lago dei Cigni
Perhaps the most elegant restaurant in St. Petersburg, Il Lago dei Cigni occupies a truly picturesque setting on the shore of a real Swan Lake, surrounded by a beautiful park. The swans gliding across the water create an enchanting backdrop, best admired from the restaurant’s terrace or through its expansive windows.
The kitchen celebrates refined European cuisine with a strong Italian influence, placing particular emphasis on exceptional ingredients and seafood. The chef’s approach combines classic techniques with contemporary presentation, allowing the natural flavours of each ingredient to shine. The wine list is another highlight, with an extensive selection that makes exploring different regions and vintages part of the experience. Seafood lovers are especially well catered for. We recommend starting with fresh oysters, Murmansk sea urchins and Arctic salmon, alongside the restaurant’s beautifully prepared carpaccios and tartares. Homemade pasta is a must. Our favourite is the linguine with Kamchatka crab, while the truffle risotto, prepared inside a wheel of Pecorino Romano, is an unforgettable dish in its own right.
For the main course, try the Dover sole fillet baked under Parmesan, served with smoked cauliflower purée. Kamchatka crab claws, scallops and tiger prawns are equally tempting, showcasing the remarkable freshness of the seafood.
Address: Krestovskiy Prospekt, 21, lit. B
Phone: +7 812 602-07-07
Website, Instagram
Mama Tuta
Among St. Petersburg’s finest restaurants, Mama Tuta holds a special place as the only Georgian restaurant on the list. Created by renowned restaurateur Aram Mnatsakanov, the concept celebrates Georgia’s rich culinary heritage through generous flavours, heartfelt hospitality, and food that feels wonderfully homemade. The kitchen, led by Georgian chef Gia Khuchua, honours traditional recipes while presenting them with a contemporary touch.
A distinctive feature is the tone oven, a traditional Georgian clay oven used to bake fresh bread, including the delicious shotis puri served warm at the table. Our favourite is, without question, the Adjarian khachapuri: a golden, boat-shaped bread filled with melted cheese, crowned with an egg and finished with butter. It is pure comfort on a plate. The khinkali are equally exceptional — the finest in the city, with delicate dough and a beautifully juicy filling.
From vibrant starters and flavourful main courses to an impressive wine list highlighting Georgia’s remarkable winemaking traditions, every element feels thoughtfully considered. Warm, welcoming, and full of character, Mama Tuta is a place where outstanding cooking feels personal — as though you have been invited to someone’s Georgian family table.
Address: Zoologicheskiy Pereulok, 2-4
Phone: +7 921 918-69-00
Website, Instagram
Best Leisure Activities
MASTER
Founded by professional motorcycle coach Andrey Kuzmin, MASTER motor school combines sporting expertise with an exceptional indoor riding facility. With 20 years of experience in motorcycle training, Kuzmin is a recognised specialist in stunt riding.
At the heart of the facility is a 4,000-square-metre indoor motorsport arena; it is the first and largest dedicated covered motorcycle facility in Russia. Open throughout the year, it features a professional enduro stadium with challenging tracks and obstacles, dedicated stunt-riding facilities and training areas for riders of all abilities. Whether you are a complete beginner taking your first steps on two wheels or an experienced motorcyclist looking to refine your technique, MASTER offers individual and advanced training programmes in enduro, stunt riding, road riding and safe motorcycle handling.
What makes the venue particularly appealing is its flexibility. Visitors can rent the entire arena for private use, organise exclusive group sessions or simply book time on the enduro tracks to enjoy riding at their own pace. Experienced riders can also hire the facility independently for personal practice. A substantial motorcycle fleet is available for rental, allowing guests to try different models without bringing their own machine. Beginners benefit from professional instruction and protective equipment, while professional photo and video shooting can also be arranged to capture the experience.
Whether you are looking to master a new skill, enjoy an adrenaline-filled afternoon with friends, or simply discover a different side of St. Petersburg, MASTER offers a distinctive motorsport experience in a professional, year-round environment.
Address: Karagandinskaya St. 7, Korabselki Massif, Bugrovskoye Urban Settlement, Vsevolozhsky District.
Phone: +7 (921) 907-43-56
Website, Instagram
Royal Yacht
The most captivating way to discover St. Petersburg is from its waterways. Royal Yacht offers exclusive private yacht and boat charters, bringing guests closer to the city’s architectural splendour, from imperial palaces and gilded domes to its picturesque canals. Whether cruising along the Neva at sunset or embarking on a longer journey towards Kizhi, each experience is tailored to individual preferences. Impeccably maintained vessels, a professional crew and bespoke services, including a private chef, ensure exceptional comfort. Beyond the iconic landmarks, a private cruise reveals a more intimate side of St. Petersburg, where its timeless beauty unfolds at an unhurried pace.
Phone: +7 (999) 021-10-02
Website, Instagram
Read more TRAVEL articles HERE
