Saint Petersburg Nightlife – Clubs, Bars & Nightlife Tips

Saint Petersburg Nightlife

Often referred to as the Venice of the North, Saint Petersburg is a world-class destination rich in culture, beautiful architecture, and a host of attractions. Visitors to the area enjoy lively nightlife with plenty of things to do.

Sample Local Fare

Theme restaurants can be found on nearly any corner. Pick your favorite music or culture and pull up a chair. For most restaurants, dress is casual and they get busy late in the evening when the business crowds hit the town. Sample authentic Russian dishes like borscht, or beet soup, and pelmeni, or dumplings. Think twice before you tip the wait staff: In Russia, most people don’t leave tips. If you feel you must leave something for exceptional service, never leave more than 10 percent.

Dance the Night Away

If you like to party with the locals, Saint Petersburg is definitely the place to visit. Travel to the city center for everything from Russian pop music to hip hop and techno. Most clubs have both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Be sure to avoid the gentlemen’s clubs along the main thoroughfare as they are simply tourist traps. If you want to fit in, dress is casual and trendy.

Satisfy Your Culture Cravings

If you prefer to get dressed up in a suit and tie or cocktail dress, choose between the Kirov Ballet at the Maryinsky Theater or a jazz concert at the Jazz Philharmonic Hall. A twilight riverboat cruise with a bottle of wine is a good way to enjoy the city from a different perspective. Folklore performances are also popular.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about the Nightlife in Saint Petersburg.