The Peterhof

Most visitors with time for just one day-trip opt for Peterhof (Great Palace 10.30am–6pm, closed Mon & last Tues of month, R520, student R250; park 9am–7pm; R350, student R180), 29km west of St Petersburg, known as the “Russian Versailles” and famed for its marvellous fountains and impressive cascades. Though originally built between 1709 and 1724 for Peter the Great, each of the subsequent rulers made their mark here. Travel by hydrofoil in summer (at least one hourly 10am–6pm; R200 each way; 30–40min) from outside the Winter Palace or take minibus #224 or #424 from Avtovo (R30), or #103 or #420 from Leninsky Prospekt. Trains also run from Baltiyskiy station in the capital to Noviy Peterhof station.