Pavlovsk: A Poetic Retreat in the Royal Gardens

Pavlovsk Palace and Park, located south of St. Petersburg, was the summer residence built by Catherine the Great for her son, Emperor Paul I. The palace blends classical and neoclassical styles, with opulent and elegant interiors, while the surrounding park features vast expanses of forests, lakes, sculptures, and pavilions. Once a secluded retreat for the imperial family, it is now a perfect getaway for St. Petersburg locals to reconnect with nature. 🕘【Opening Hours】: The palace is open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, closed on Tuesdays. The park is open all day: 6:00 AM–11:00 PM in summer (May–September) and 7:00 AM–9:00 PM in winter (October–April). Recommended visit duration is 5–6 hours to leisurely explore the palace and park. Photography is prohibited inside the palace but allowed in the park. 💴【Ticket Prices】: Palace admission is 800 RUB, while the park is free. Some special structures (e.g., the Temple of Friendship) require an additional 150 RUB. ⛺【Attractions】: Pavlovsk Palace: The Golden Drawing Room and White Dining Room showcase imperial grandeur, with exquisite murals, chandeliers, and furniture. Highlights include the blue reliefs in the "Greek Hall" and military-themed decor in the "War Room." Guided tours offer insights into royal life. English Garden Stroll: The park’s natural landscapes feature winding forest paths, dotted with structures like the "Apollo Colonnade" and "Egyptian Bridge." Swans glide on the lakes, and autumn foliage creates a picturesque scene. Carriage Museum: Located in the park, it displays 18th–19th-century royal carriages with gilded decorations and intricate carvings—a must-see for carriage enthusiasts. Royal Bathhouse Ruins: Hidden in the woods, these stone remnants exude vintage charm, perfect for artistic photos. 🚌【Transport】: Train: Take a suburban train from St. Petersburg’s Vitebsk Station to Pavlovsk (every 30 minutes, 40-minute ride, 100 RUB). A 10-minute walk from the station leads to the park entrance. Bus: Routes 545 or 599 stop at "Павловск," directly at the park’s main entrance (1-hour ride, 80 RUB). 👉【Itinerary】: Nearby: Visit the palace and park in the morning, then explore handicraft markets near Pavlovsk Station in the afternoon. Return to St. Petersburg in the evening for a Russian dinner on Nevsky Prospekt. Accommodation: Stay in central St. Petersburg (e.g., Hilton Nevsky Prospekt) for convenience, or opt for the serene Pavlovsk Estate Hotel (5-minute walk to the park; book in advance). 🧡【Tips】: Wear comfortable shoes—the park is vast. Bring a sunhat and mosquito repellent in summer, and slip-proof shoes in winter. Pack a picnic mat and snacks for lakeside relaxation (take trash with you). The palace is cool in summer (bring a light jacket); winter visits require warm clothing due to windy conditions. Bring a camera—the park’s seasonal beauty is frame-worthy.