Things to Do in Saint Petersburg in December
December weather, activities, events & insider tips
December Weather in Saint Petersburg
Is December Right for You?
Advantages
- Authentic Russian winter atmosphere - December transforms Saint Petersburg into a fairy-tale city with snow-covered palaces, frozen canals, and magical illuminated facades that look exactly like imperial Russia should
- Peak cultural season with world-class performances - The Mariinsky Theatre, Hermitage concerts, and ballet companies run their finest productions during December, with tickets more available than peak summer tourist months
- Significant cost savings on accommodations - Hotel prices drop 40-60% compared to White Nights season, and many luxury properties offer winter packages starting around $80-120 per night
- Authentic local experience with minimal crowds - Major attractions like the Hermitage and Catherine Palace have 70% fewer visitors, allowing genuine appreciation of art and architecture without fighting through tour groups
Considerations
- Extreme daylight limitations with only 5.5-6 hours of weak daylight (sunrise 9:30am, sunset 3:30pm), requiring careful activity planning and potential seasonal mood challenges
- Harsh weather conditions with temperatures averaging -3°C (27°F), frequent snow, and wind chill making outdoor sightseeing difficult for more than 30-45 minutes at a time
- Reduced transportation reliability as suburban palace complexes like Peterhof close seasonal fountains, and some suburban trains face weather delays averaging 15-20 minutes
Best Activities in December
Hermitage Museum Winter Collections Tours
December is ideal for experiencing the world's second-largest art collection without summer crowds. The museum's heating creates perfect conditions for viewing, and special winter exhibitions often feature Russian imperial artifacts. With 70% fewer visitors, you can spend quality time with masterpieces and access normally crowded rooms like the Jordan Staircase and Throne Room.
Mariinsky Theatre Ballet and Opera Performances
December is peak performance season with world-renowned productions like The Nutcracker, Swan Lake, and special holiday concerts. The historic theatre's intimate atmosphere and exceptional acoustics are perfect for Russia's cultural crown jewel. December typically features 25-30 performances monthly.
Winter Palace Architecture and Photography Tours
December snow creates dramatic contrast against baroque facades, making it ideal for architectural photography. The winter light, though limited, provides unique golden hour opportunities from 2-4pm. Palace Square covered in snow offers iconic Russian winter imagery that's impossible other seasons.
Traditional Russian Banya and Spa Experiences
December cold makes traditional banya (Russian sauna) culture essential for both warmth and authentic local experience. Historic banyas like Yamskiye or Krugliye offer genuine Russian wellness traditions with steam rooms, cold plunges, and birch branch treatments - perfect antidote to December weather.
Metro Station Underground Palace Tours
Saint Petersburg's metro doubles as underground palace system - perfect for December exploration staying warm while seeing spectacular Soviet-era art and architecture. Stations like Avtovo, Narvskaya, and Pushkinskaya feature marble columns, crystal chandeliers, and bronze sculptures rivaling museum exhibits.
Traditional Russian Winter Market and Food Tours
December brings authentic winter markets with traditional Russian foods, mulled wine, and holiday specialties. Kuznechny Market and smaller neighborhood markets offer warm soups, fresh bread, caviar, and seasonal treats like pryaniki (spiced cookies) that locals rely on during harsh winters.
December Events & Festivals
New Year Russian Orthodox Celebrations
Russians celebrate New Year more extensively than Christmas, with elaborate decorations throughout the city center, special markets, and public celebrations. Palace Square hosts major New Year's Eve festivities with live music, traditional foods, and midnight fireworks.
Winter Arts Festival at Various Venues
December hosts concentrated classical music performances, art exhibitions, and theatrical productions across the city's cultural institutions. Special winter programming often features Russian composers and artists, providing authentic cultural immersion during peak indoor season.