The Konstantinovsky Palace at Strelna

The Konstantinovsky Palace is not an ordinary museum. It is a working state residence, the Palace of Congresses, and it can be seen only on a guided visit booked in advance. We make that arrangement for you, and the car takes you out along the Gulf of Finland to Strelna.

Peter I first planned his “Russian Versailles” here, before engineers showed that fountains would not work on this low ground and the project moved to Peterhof. The palace later belonged to three Grand Dukes named Konstantin, was almost destroyed in the war, stood in ruins for half a century, and was rebuilt in three years for the city’s tercentenary in 2003.

The route

The state halls. The Marble, Blue and Trojan halls, recreated by 2003, where the G8 and G20 summits were held and heads of state are received.

The working residence. The study and reception rooms of the presidential residence, shown when there are no official engagements.

The Lower Park and canals. Peter’s original layout, with canals running out to the gulf, grottoes, bridges and the view over the water from the palace terrace.

The Rostropovich and Vishnevskaya collection. Russian art from the eighteenth to the twentieth century, bought at auction in London, given to the state and shown in the palace since 2007.

Your guide explains how the palace prepares for heads of state and what happens behind the scenes at a summit. You also hear the stories of the three Konstantins: one who gave up the throne to marry for love, one who reformed the navy, and one who translated Hamlet.

Good to know

• The tour lasts about five hours, including the drive from the city and back.
• The car and entry tickets to the palace are included; meals are not.
• Entry is by prior arrangement only, and some rooms may be closed during official events.
• A tasting of three wines from the presidential cellar can be added on request, at 1,000–1,500 roubles per person, paid separately.
• The meeting point is agreed at booking. The tour can be private or part of a group.

Who it suits

Travellers curious about modern Russian state ceremony, visitors who have seen the classic palaces and want something different, and anyone interested in how a ruin becomes a presidential residence.