Take the chance to hear the fascinating history of Jewish life in St. Petersburg on a tour visiting the most important historic places as well as a modern Jewish community center.
About this activity
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
- COVID-19 precautions
- Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
- Mobile ticketing
- Use your phone or print your voucher
- Duration 4 hours
- Check availability to see starting times.
- Skip the ticket line
- Instant confirmation
- Live tour guide
- English, German, French, Italian, Spanish
- Pickup included
- From the the lobby of your hotel or at your accommodation in St Petersburg.
Experience
Highlights
- See the Jewish district of St. Petersburg and learn about its present and past
- Marvel at the interiors of the Grand Choral Synagogue
- Learn about the history of Jews in the Russian Museum of Ethnography
- Visit the local Jewish community center YESOD
Full description
Start your city tour with a drive through the old district of Kolomna which was the center of Jewish life in the 19th century. Stop at St. Petersburg Conservatory founded by Anton Rubinstein and hear about its outstanding Jewish graduates.
Next, drive by some historical sights associated with the first Jews of the 18th century including the ornate palaces of the Ginzburgs and the Polyakovs, the two powerful dynasties of Jewish bankers. See Nevsky Prospekt, the city’s central street with the monumental Wawelberg Bank building that belonged to the wealthiest bankers of Poland, and other famous structures.
After the sightseeing tour, you’ll get inside the Grand Choral Synagogue and find out about its architecture, the history of its foundation and construction, as well as its life today and in the past. At the Russian Museum of Ethnography you will learn about the history of Jews that lived on the territory of the Russian Empire, their everyday life activities, occupation, and culture.
Before returning to your hotel you will visit the YESOD center where you will get to see how the Jewish community of today lives. This center combines Jewish organizations that cater for all ages, from young children to senior citizens.
Includes
- Admission to the Russian Museum of Ethnography, Grand Choral Synagogue, and YESOD
- Professional guide
- Air-conditioned vehicle and professional driver
- Hotel or port pickup and drop-off
- Meals and drinks
- Gratuities (optional, but greatly appreciated)
Not suitable for
- Wheelchair users
COVID-19 precautions
Customers must book this activity online because the ticket office is closed
Safety measures in place
- All required protective equipment is provided
- All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
- Customers must keep distance in vehicles
- The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
Traveler requirements
- Customers must bring their own headphones
- Customers must fill out a travel information form
- Customers will get a mandatory temperature check
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
Important information
What to bring
- Comfortable shoes
Not allowed
- Shorts
- Sleeveless shirts
Know before you go
- This is a private tour by vehicle
- The Grand Choral Synagogue is closed on Saturdays and during religious holidays