What New Peterhof Station Is
New Peterhof Station is a railway gateway to Peterhof Palace, one of Russia’s celebrated imperial sites, and an architectural landmark in the suburbs of Saint Petersburg. Its 19th-century Gothic Revival design reflects the period’s railway modernization and imperial ambitions. Peterhof Palace, often called the “Russian Versailles,” is known for its Baroque architecture, gardens, and fountains (Guide For You Russia; Wikipedia; World of Wanderlust; Annees de Pelerinage).
History
New Peterhof Station
Built between 1854 and 1857 under architect Alexander Krakau, the station served a new railway line connecting Saint Petersburg with the summer palaces of the Russian Tsars in Peterhof, Strelna, and Oranienbaum. It officially opened on July 21, 1857, reflecting Russia’s pursuit of modernization and technological progress (Wikipedia; Guide For You Russia).
The station served as a gateway for the imperial family and Russian aristocracy. A royal wing was reserved for the Tsars, and the station was the ceremonial starting point for journeys to palace festivities (en.peterhofmuseum.ru; Wikipedia).
After being renamed in 1872 and reconstructed in the 1930s, the station shifted to suburban traffic. Its architectural value was preserved during the Soviet era, and integration with the metro system in 1955 improved public accessibility (Wikipedia). The station’s architecture and history are also recognized as part of Saint Petersburg’s heritage (World History Journal).
Peterhof Palace
Commissioned by Peter the Great in 1714 to rival Versailles, Peterhof Palace was severely damaged in World War II and later restored to its imperial splendor (World of Wanderlust; Mundo Wanderlust; Trip101).
What to See
New Peterhof Station
The station is a rare Russian example of 19th-century Gothic Revival railway architecture. Its features include a four-tiered western tower with lancet arches and pinnacled parapets, a southern portico leading to a vaulted hall, and wide lancet windows and buttresses on the northern façade. Inspired by Paris’s Gare de l’Est and designed with input from Nikolai Benois, the original plans were only partly realized, resulting in a mix of decorative grandeur and practical adaptation. Some planned cast iron was replaced with wood. The station’s original clock, crafted by Tsarist watchmaker Pavel Bure, remains on display.
Peterhof Palace and Grounds
The Peterhof complex includes the Grand Palace, Lower and Upper Gardens, more than 150 fountains, and numerous gilded statues. Highlights include:
- Grand Palace A Baroque masterpiece with opulent interiors.
- Lower Park and Grand Cascade Known for their fountains, including the Samson Fountain.
- Monplaisir and Marly Palaces Smaller, themed museums.
- Upper Gardens Formal landscaping and free entry.
Practical Visiting Information
New Peterhof Station: Hours and Tickets
The station is open daily from approximately 5:00 AM to midnight. Hours may vary on holidays and during off-peak seasons, so check train timetables in advance.
Train tickets are available from manned counters and automated machines at Baltiysky Station and New Peterhof Station. One-way fares are listed as 100–150 RUB in the station information and 70–100 RUB for the suburban train from Baltiysky Station. Tickets can also be purchased online via Russian Railways. When buying a ticket, select “Новый Петергоф” (Novy Peterhof).
Bus and marshrutka tickets can be bought from drivers or kiosks near the station; fares are generally 40–60 RUB.
Peterhof Palace: Hours and Tickets
- Lower Park 9:30 AM–7:00 PM, April–October.
- Grand Palace 11:00 AM–6:00 PM, April–October; closed Mondays.
- Upper Gardens Open year-round during daylight.
- Lower Park tickets 500–1,000 RUB.
- Grand Palace tickets Approximately 1,200 RUB; a separate ticket is required.
- Combo tickets Available for multiple sites, online or at the entrance.
Buying tickets in advance during high season can help avoid long lines.
Getting to Peterhof Palace
By suburban train: Trains run from Baltiysky Railway Station, which is connected to Baltiyskaya metro station on the Red Line. Journey-time estimates are 40–45 minutes and 30–40 minutes; trains depart every 20–30 minutes (factsanddetails.com).
From New Peterhof Station to the palace: The palace is approximately 2.5–3 km away, or roughly 3 km. Local buses and marshrutkas run directly from outside the station, including buses 350, 351, 352, and 356. Walking takes 20–40 minutes according to one estimate and 25–35 minutes according to another. The route is straightforward, but signage is mostly in Russian.
By metro and bus or marshrutka: Take the Red Line to Avtovo and transfer to a bus or marshrutka marked for Peterhof (russiable.com).
By hydrofoil: Hydrofoils depart from Palace Pier behind the Hermitage Museum. The journey takes 35–40 minutes and usually includes Lower Park entry (tripsget.com).
By taxi: Taxis are an option from Pulkovo Airport or the city center. The guide lists Yandex Taxi and Gett as booking apps.
| Mode | Departure point | Arrival point | Duration | Fare (2025) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Suburban train | Baltiysky Station | New Peterhof Station | 30–40 min | 70–100 RUB | 25–35 min walk or local bus to palace |
| Metro + bus | Avtovo Metro Station | Peterhof Palace | 35–45 min | 75 RUB | Direct to palace entrance |
| Marshrutka | Avtovo Metro Station | Peterhof Palace | 35–40 min | 70–100 RUB | Cash only, direct |
| Hydrofoil | Palace Pier (Hermitage) | Peterhof Lower Park | 35–40 min | 900–1,200 RUB | Fastest, includes park entry |
| Taxi | Anywhere | Peterhof Palace | ~1 hour | 900–1,500 RUB | Book via app for safe pricing |
Accessibility and Facilities
New Peterhof Station has ground-level access, ramps, and accessible restrooms. Onward buses and marshrutkas may not provide full wheelchair access; taxis or rideshares are recommended for travelers with limited mobility.
The Peterhof complex is extensive. Tourist trains and shuttles are available for visitors with mobility issues, and some accessibility facilities are available; contact the administration for assistance. Dining options inside the park are limited, so visitors may want to bring snacks and water.
Tours and Events
Tour operators offer packages that include New Peterhof Station and Peterhof Palace. Historical commemorations are occasionally held at the station. Many operators offer palace tours in English and other languages.
For live updates and interactive assistance, the guide points visitors to the official Peterhof Museum website and trusted travel platforms. It also mentions the Audiala app for maps, guided tours, interactive tours, and real-time travel assistance (en.peterhofmuseum.ru; tripsget.com).
Tips
Peterhof’s high season runs from early May to mid-October, when the fountains are operational. For the fountains specifically, the guide also gives late May to early October as the operating period, with daily launches at 11:00 AM. Weekdays and early mornings are less crowded; visiting in late May to early October, early in the morning, or late in the afternoon can help avoid crowds. Off-season visits are quieter, but some features, especially the fountains, may be closed.
Wear comfortable shoes for the extensive grounds. Follow signs, respect restricted areas, and observe photography rules. Basic Russian phrases or a translation app can be useful (The Invisible Tourist).
Nearby Places
- Peterhof Palace and Gardens Known for its fountains and opulent design.
- Oranienbaum Palace Accessible via the same railway.
- Strelna Home to the Konstantin Palace and parks.
Frequently Asked Questions
New Peterhof Station
What are the station’s visiting hours?
It is open daily from approximately 5:00 AM to midnight, though train schedules may vary.
How can I buy train tickets?
Tickets are available at station counters, machines, or online via Russian Railways.
Is the station accessible for people with disabilities?
The station has ground-level access, ramps, and accessible restrooms, but onward buses may have limited accessibility.
Are guided tours available?
Yes. Many operators include the station in Peterhof tours.
What attractions are nearby?
Peterhof Palace, Oranienbaum Palace, and Strelna.
Peterhof Palace
When are the fountains operational?
The stated season is late May to early October, with daily launches at 11:00 AM.
Can I re-enter the Lower Park with the same ticket?
No. A new ticket is required for re-entry.
Are there guided tours in English?
Yes. Many operators offer tours in multiple languages.
Is the complex accessible to visitors with disabilities?
Some facilities are available; contact the administration for assistance.
