Where to begin exploring the island city
Begin the journey with a visit to St. Nicholas Cathedral on Anchor Square, a grand maritime cathedral from the era of the Russian Empire. Its cruciform dome has long symbolized the sea and welcomed sailors home from their voyages.
The temple stands not only as a place of worship but also as a memorial. It honors all fleet members who perished at sea while serving. Along the perimeter, black marble plaques bear the names of the fallen officers, while those who held lower ranks are marked with numbers. The names of ship priests who served at the altars are inscribed on white boards inside the walls.
Admission to the Naval Cathedral is free. Those curious about its history, eager to view the city from above, or interested in detailed ceiling paintings can opt for one of the guided tours. Tours include climbing beneath the dome or ascending the bell tower, with departures roughly every hour.
Anchor Square once housed anchors before giving the city its name. The square’s unique cast-iron cladding remains, and from the cathedral viewing platform beside the bell, visitors can spot the anchor motif at the center.
Japanese dragon-shaped wave
On Yakornaya Square stand two renowned monuments—Admirals Ushakov and Makarov—beside an Eternal Flame marking the mass grave from past revolutions and civil conflicts.
The bronze statue of Vice Admiral Makarov, a notable naval commander, inventor, explorer, and former military governor of Kronstadt, stands on a rock pedestal. A wave carved in the form of a Japanese dragon appears to pull the admiral into the sea, creating a dramatic scene that captures the imagination.
The monument to the legendary Admiral Fyodor Ushakov, unveiled in 2015 at the northern entrance of the Naval Cathedral, honors a patriot who never lost a battle or a ship. He was canonized in 2001.
From Anchor Square, a stroll toward the sea leads to Petrovsky Park and Kronstadt, where a statue of Peter I looks out over the water and fleet that captured the emperor’s heart. Behind the statue lies Petrovsky Pier, a place to observe ships and capture photos. The Baltic Fleet maintains a presence with combat, training, and research vessels.
The Naval Victory Museum, located at Citadel Highway 18, invites visitors into an immersive experience. Holograms, interactive displays, working models, and broad access to many exhibits engage visitors of all ages. Through modern technologies, guests explore the rise of the Russian Navy from sailing ships to nuclear-powered vessels, as well as reforms of Peter the Great and the sailors who pushed Russia’s reach. The exhibits illuminate Arctic exploration, maritime operations, and signaling networks from flags to satellites.
Dominating the museum is the first Soviet nuclear submarine, K-3. Its interior has been reopened and restored with careful attention to historical detail. The spaces blend cutting-edge technology with original artifacts to convey life aboard a submarine, the challenges of service, and notable missions.
New attraction
Adjacent to the Naval Glory Museum lies Fort Island Park, spanning about 10 hectares. Visitors can enjoy scenic views, fresh sea air, and seasonal activities. Through February 24, 2024, the park hosted the Sea Winter Tale entertainment program, a scuba hill ride, and a popular shooting range. The park’s scenic spots, including Zero Kilometer art pieces, the Golden Compass, and the Rock Garden seals and seagulls statues, plus the open-work Memory Lantern and a panoramic swing, remain memorable photo moments.
For those seeking physical activity, the rope park operates on weekends and holidays during winter, and themed playgrounds plus a swinging ship entertain younger guests as well.
Walking toward the Alley of Heroes feels like stepping through time. Exhibits in special niches present plans, drawings, and artifacts that recount the Russian fleet from Peter the Great’s era, with current tributes to Russia’s esteemed naval commanders and sailors.
An all-season food court sits in the park’s central square, hosting beloved St. Petersburg cafes and eateries. It’s a convenient stop for a quick bite, a hot drink, or a leisurely lunch while enjoying panoramic park views. A cafe-ship with an observation deck draws both adults and children alike.
In Castle Island Park, a pavilion houses the City Tourist Information Office, offering free city maps and informational booklets about attractions. The staff can help plan routes, point visitors toward St. Petersburg and Kronstadt highlights, and provide information on current events and excursion options.
Among Kronstadt’s unusual attractions is the Wishing Tree near Gostiny Dvor. A four-meter-tall cast-iron sculpture, this friendly tree is said to grant secret wishes when visitors whisper them and drop a coin into the owl’s nest, circling the tree three times while softly rubbing the nose of a nearby fawn statue for luck.
Additionally, the Baltic Fleet Drama Theater offers performances suitable for adults and children. Tickets can be purchased on show days, either at the theater 60 minutes before curtain or through the box office in person or online.
The Baltic winds are brisk, and Kronstadt’s climate calls for warm clothing and careful planning for a full-day visit. Travelers considering an extended stay may book a comfortable hotel to suit personal tastes and budgets, ensuring a memorable island experience.
Visitors may consider staying a few days in St. Petersburg or planning 2–3 day themed excursions to minimize information overload and truly immerse in a St. Petersburg itinerary. The city reveals a new facet with each visit, offering opportunities to explore familiar sights anew and to discover hidden corners of this remarkable destination. A well-paced, multi-day approach helps travelers appreciate classic attractions alongside newer points of interest on the St. Petersburg–Kronstadt route. A recommended approach is to visit St. Petersburg and Kronstadt for a genuine coastal-cultural experience.