Pushkin Town Guide
Step Back in Time: Discover the Charm of Pushkin Town Guide
Pushkin, formerly known as Tsarskoye Selo (Tsar's Village), is a charming town located just south of St. Petersburg. It's renowned for its imperial history, stunning architecture, and tranquil atmosphere. More than just the home of Catherine Palace, Pushkin offers a delightful escape from the bustling city, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a world of elegant estates, picturesque parks, and historical landmarks. Explore its streets, discover its hidden gems, and experience the unique ambiance of this former royal residence. The history of Pushkin is deeply intertwined with the Russian imperial family. Founded in the early 18th century as a royal estate, it quickly became a favorite summer residence for the Tsars. Catherine I established the original palace, and Empress Elizabeth significantly expanded it, transforming the town into a lavish imperial retreat. The town was renamed Pushkin in 1937 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the death of the famous Russian poet Alexander Pushkin, who spent his early years studying at the prestigious Tsarskoye Selo Lyceum. A visit to Pushkin offers a variety of activities beyond Catherine Palace. Explore the Alexander Palace, another imperial residence with its own unique history and architectural style. Wander through the Alexander Park, a vast green space surrounding the palace, featuring lakes, pavilions, and historical monuments. Visit the Tsarskoye Selo Lyceum, where Alexander Pushkin studied, and learn about his formative years. Stroll along the town's charming streets, admiring the well-preserved historical buildings and soaking in the atmosphere. While Pushkin doesn't have a unique culinary tradition distinct from the broader St. Petersburg region, be sure to sample traditional Russian cuisine at local restaurants.
Transportation
From St. Petersburg, take a suburban train (elektrichka) from Vitebsky Railway Station to Tsarskoye Selo (Pushkin). The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Numerous buses and marshrutkas (minibuses) also run from various metro stations in St. Petersburg to Pushkin, including Moskovskaya and Kupchino.