Here you can get away from the tourist crowds of Nevsky without sacrificing amazing sites! The blue unique Smolny Cathedral offers a sweeping view over the city and it’s worth climbing to the top of one of the bell-towers. It is nowadays one of the most amazing baroque cathedrals of the city. The spacious Tauride Gardens and the impressive Tauride Palace are also located here. Today, the palace is home to the Commonwealth of Independent States and is closed to the public but the gardens, on the other hand, are open to all and their facilities include a lake, several cafes and an entertainment center. If it’s a beautiful sunny day, follow the bend of the Neva on the embankment and soak in the views.

When all the exploring and discovering starts making you feel peckish, you can grab a quick bite or have a leisurely meal in one of the many establishments that can be found in this part the city’s center.