Virtuoso Insights - October/November 2008 - (Page 70) Local art displayed on nevsky prospect, St. petersburg’s central shopping street. Great Hall and newly restored Amber Room. Hop a hydrofoil to Peterhof, the elegant palace of Peter the Great; known as the “Russian Versailles,” it’s famed for its gorgeous gardens and elaborate system of fountains. Shoppers find solace along the grand Nevsky Prospekt, the city’s version of the Champs-Élysées, while those seeking nightlife can be found dancing at the tri-level Metro Club. For a timeless St. Petersburg experience, attend a performance at the famous Mariinsky (formerly Kirov) Theatre, followed by apres-theatre at Nobleman’s Nest, an elegant restaurant located within Yusupov Palace, perhaps most recognized as the site where the “mad monk,” Rasputin, met his fate. Photo ©Richard nowitz/gettyimages In S I D ER T I p : while the hermitage opens to the public at 10:30 AM, wait at least an hour before going to avoid the early crowds. between noon and 2:00 PM, you can spend a few hours in relatively empty rooms while most people stop for lunch.
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