Things to Do at Catherine Palace

The Catherine Palace, located in the town of Tsarskoye Selo (now Pushkin) about 25 kilometers south of Saint Petersburg, stands as one of Russia's most magnificent imperial residences. Originally built in 1717 for Catherine I, the palace was extensively renovated and expanded during the reign of Empress Elizabeth in the mid-18th century by Italian architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli. The baroque masterpiece stretches over 300 meters in length and is famous for its distinctive blue and white facade adorned with golden details. The palace is most renowned for housing the legendary Amber Room, often called the 'Eighth Wonder of the World.' This extraordinary chamber, entirely paneled in amber and gold leaf, was looted by Nazi forces during World War II and painstakingly reconstructed over 24 years, reopening to the public in 2003. Beyond the Amber Room, the palace contains over 50 rooms showcasing imperial luxury, including ornate ballrooms, intimate chambers, and galleries filled with priceless artwork and furniture that tell the story of Russian imperial life.

Take the suburban train (elektrichka) from Saint Petersburg's Vitebsky Railway Station to Tsarskoye Selo station (30-40 minutes), then bus 371, 382, or marshrutka to the palace gates. Alternatively, take bus 186 or 187 from Moskovskaya metro station (45-60 minutes). Many visitors opt for organized tours or taxis, which take about 45 minutes from central Saint Petersburg depending on traffic.