10 Unforgettable Year-Round Experiences and Things to Do in Vasyl’evsky Ostrov Russia

Key takeaways:

• Vasyl’evsky Ostrov offers a unique mix of imperial architecture, riverside views, and cultural life in the heart of St. Petersburg.

• The island features art museums, local markets, secret courtyards, and historic landmarks perfect for any season.

• Whether you’re a history lover or modern explorer, there’s always something memorable to do year-round in Vasyl’evsky Ostrov.

Set between the Neva River and the Gulf of Finland, Vasyl’evsky Ostrov (Vasilyevsky Island) is one of St. Petersburg’s most historically rich and visually striking neighborhoods. It was originally intended to be the city’s main center during Peter the Great’s reign, and traces of that grand ambition can still be felt today. With its symmetrical canal-lined streets, prestigious universities, and sweeping waterfront promenades, the island blends the elegance of old Russia with the creative pulse of modern-day St. Petersburg. Locals love it for its balance of peace and proximity—it’s less touristy than the city center but still full of things to see and do. Whether you’re walking historic lines of houses or discovering hidden cafes, Vasyl’evsky Ostrov surprises and inspires in every season.

Table of Contents

1. Stroll along the Strelka and watch the Neva River split

2. Explore the Kunstkamera Museum of Anthropology and Ethnography

3. Walk the historic 6th and 7th Lines and discover secret courtyards

4. Visit Erarta Museum of Contemporary Art

5. Enjoy local eats and fresh produce at Vasileostrovsky Market

6. Take a ferry ride to New Holland Island

7. Attend a seasonal art exhibit at Artmuza Creative Cluster

8. Explore the marine history at the Central Naval Museum

9. Catch a local play at the Baltic House Theatre-Festival

10. Join locals for ice skating in the winter or biking in the summer along the embankment

1. Stroll along the Strelka and watch the Neva River split

The Strelka is one of the most iconic spots on Vasyl’evsky Ostrov and offers a stunning panoramic view of the Neva River as it forks around the island. Framed by the towering Rostral Columns and backed by the neoclassical Old Stock Exchange building, this point is perfect for sunrises, sunsets, and riverside photo walks. Whether you’re visiting in summer with boats drifting by or in winter when the river freezes, the atmosphere is always peaceful and grand. Locals often bring coffee and sit on the stone ledges to watch the world float by.

Beyond its beauty, the Strelka is rich with history—it was once the economic heart of the city and remains a venue for public celebrations and fireworks. The nearby lawn hosts seasonal festivals, from summer jazz concerts to winter light installations. A visit here offers both tranquility and culture in one setting. It’s the kind of place that makes you pause and fall in love with the rhythm of the city.

2. Explore the Kunstkamera Museum of Anthropology and Ethnography

Founded by Peter the Great in 1714, the Kunstkamera is Russia’s first museum and remains one of its most intriguing. Its green-and-white baroque tower houses centuries of scientific curiosity, including ethnographic exhibits from around the world, ancient tools, cultural clothing, and rare artifacts. But what it’s best known for—oddly enough—is its anatomical collection, featuring preserved specimens once used to advance medical science. It’s both educational and eccentric, offering a glimpse into the tsar’s obsession with understanding the world.

The museum is open year-round and located right along the Neva River, making it an easy stop during a walking tour of the island. Families, students, and history buffs will find something fascinating in every room. Audio guides and placards in English are available to help visitors make sense of the museum’s deep history. Whether you’re drawn by science, culture, or just pure curiosity, the Kunstkamera is a one-of-a-kind experience.

3. Walk the historic 6th and 7th Lines and discover secret courtyards

The 6th and 7th Lines are some of the oldest and most atmospheric streets on the island. These parallel avenues offer access to hidden courtyards, old tenement buildings, and glimpses into everyday life in St. Petersburg. You’ll find charming cafés, vintage bookstores, and locally owned bakeries tucked behind wrought-iron gates. Each courtyard has its own personality—some are overgrown and wild, others are curated with murals, art installations, and benches.

Walking here is like being in a living museum—locals hang laundry, children play in corners, and artists leave their mark in subtle ways. The buildings still bear the faded grandeur of the 19th century, and many are undergoing quiet revitalization. It’s a great area for slow exploration, perfect for photographers and culture lovers. If you enjoy wandering without a set plan, these streets will reward you with discoveries at every turn.

4. Visit Erarta Museum of Contemporary Art

The Erarta Museum is the largest private museum of contemporary art in Russia, and it’s located right in the heart of Vasyl’evsky Ostrov. Spread across five floors, it features thousands of works by modern Russian artists across painting, sculpture, video art, and installations. The museum doesn’t shy away from bold themes—politics, identity, and culture are explored in innovative, often interactive ways. Exhibits change regularly, so there’s always something new to see no matter when you visit.

The space itself is modern and sleek, with a great café and museum shop on the ground floor. Visitors can take guided tours or explore on their own using the museum’s app. It’s a top destination for art lovers, students, and anyone curious about contemporary Russia beyond stereotypes. If you’re craving inspiration, Erarta delivers it in fresh, surprising ways.

5. Enjoy local eats and fresh produce at Vasileostrovsky Market

For a taste of daily life, head to Vasileostrovsky Market, where you’ll find everything from local cheeses and cured meats to handmade pastries and seasonal berries. The indoor-outdoor space has been modernized in recent years but still retains its charming, no-frills vibe. It’s a favorite among locals who come for fresh groceries, quick lunches, or warm coffee on a cold day. Foodies will love sampling items like pelmeni, smoked fish, and Russian-style pancakes with condensed milk.

You can also find small vendor stalls selling crafts, natural skincare products, and houseplants. During holidays, the market often hosts themed fairs and workshops for children and families. It’s a great place to strike up conversations with locals and discover regional specialties you won’t find in tourist-heavy restaurants. Come hungry, and you’ll leave satisfied—and maybe with a bag full of treats to go.

6. Take a ferry ride to New Holland Island

Hop on a seasonal ferry or take a scenic walk from Vasyl’evsky Ostrov to New Holland Island, one of St. Petersburg’s most dynamic cultural hubs. Originally a naval storage site in the 18th century, this perfectly rounded island has been transformed into a creative park filled with galleries, restaurants, bookstores, and outdoor art installations. In summer, locals gather on the central lawn for open-air yoga, concerts, and family picnics. In winter, the entire space transforms into a festive skating rink under lights.

New Holland is a mix of old brick industrial architecture and modern design. The surrounding canal offers quiet walks, and the main buildings host rotating exhibitions and pop-up shops from independent artists. It’s an easy half-day trip from Vasyl’evsky and gives a modern contrast to the island’s historic vibes. Whether you come for food, art, or just a peaceful afternoon, it never disappoints.

7. Attend a seasonal art exhibit at Artmuza Creative Cluster

Tucked inside a former factory building, Artmuza is an artistic enclave that houses studios, galleries, and concept shops across several industrial floors. It’s one of the few places in the city where you can meet local painters, sculptors, and photographers in their creative zones. Artmuza is known for its seasonal exhibitions, which range from bold political pieces to whimsical installations. Many events are free or donation-based, making it accessible for all.

Beyond visual art, the space often hosts concerts, lectures, and workshops in painting, ceramics, and digital media. There’s also a rooftop café where you can unwind with coffee and skyline views. If you’re traveling in the colder months, Artmuza is a warm and inspiring indoor retreat. It’s the perfect spot to connect with St. Petersburg’s evolving contemporary scene from a local perspective.

8. Explore the marine history at the Central Naval Museum

For history lovers, the Central Naval Museum is a treasure trove of maritime artifacts, models, and naval history dating back to Peter the Great. Located in the grand former Stock Exchange building near the Strelka, the museum’s exhibits cover Russia’s naval conquests, shipbuilding, and sea exploration across centuries. You’ll find model ships, battle flags, sailor uniforms, and even full-scale replicas of famous vessels. It’s both educational and visually impressive.

The museum’s layout is easy to navigate, and many displays include English descriptions. Special sections highlight Arctic expeditions and 20th-century naval advancements, offering depth for serious history buffs. It’s also a great stop for families or rainy-day travel, with plenty to see and learn over a few hours. Whether or not you’re a maritime enthusiast, the storytelling here is excellent.

9. Catch a local play at the Baltic House Theatre-Festival

Located just off Primorsky Prospekt, the Baltic House Theatre-Festival is one of St. Petersburg’s most innovative performance spaces. Known for its experimental take on classic plays and its vibrant lineup of international performers, it’s a favorite among local creatives and curious travelers. Shows are held year-round, with subtitles often available in English. From Shakespeare reimaginings to modern Russian dramas, the programming always pushes creative boundaries.

The atmosphere here is casual yet artistic, and tickets are affordable compared to many other city venues. The adjacent square is lively, with food vendors and street musicians adding to the vibe. It’s a unique way to spend an evening on the island—and offers insight into the emotional and intellectual pulse of Russian theater. Be sure to check the schedule in advance for special events and festivals.

10. Join locals for ice skating in the winter or biking in the summer along the embankment

Vasyl’evsky’s riverside embankment paths stretch for kilometers and offer perfect terrain for seasonal recreation. In winter, public ice skating rinks pop up along the Neva, especially near the metro stations or university campuses. You’ll see locals gliding, laughing, and sipping tea from thermoses between turns. In summer, the same spaces become bike paths, rollerblading tracks, and picnic spots under the sun.

Bike rentals are easy to find nearby, and the scenery along the river is both relaxing and energizing. This is where daily life unfolds—students studying by the water, grandparents strolling, and kids zooming past on scooters. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the local rhythm and take in Vasyl’evsky’s beauty at your own pace. Whether it’s cold or warm, the embankment offers free, refreshing fun.

What to do if you have kids?

Vasyl’evsky Ostrov is very family-friendly, offering a wide range of interactive experiences for kids. The Kunstkamera and Naval Museum have child-focused exhibits, while green areas like the Strelka and embankment paths are perfect for playtime and walks. Seasonal activities like skating in winter or paddle-boating in summer keep kids engaged. New Holland Island often has workshops and outdoor games tailored to families. Bring snacks, extra layers, and let them explore—the island is safe, welcoming, and full of discovery.

Where can I find free events in Vasyl’evsky Ostrov Russia taking place this weekend?

To find free concerts, festivals, exhibits, and community events in Vasyl’evsky Ostrov and greater St. Petersburg, use PlanMyWeekend.ai. This AI-powered platform instantly shows you what’s happening in your area—sorted by date, interest, and price. From free museum nights and riverside music to local art openings and public fitness classes, there’s always something happening. Just enter “Vasyl’evsky Ostrov” and your travel dates, and it will curate the best options for your weekend—no searching required.

Final thoughts

Vasyl’evsky Ostrov is where old-world elegance meets new energy. Its canals, courtyards, and creative spaces invite you to explore slowly and deeply, far from the rush of tourist trails. Whether you’re admiring views from the Strelka, browsing local art, or enjoying street food with locals, every moment feels layered with culture and history. The island’s charm doesn’t depend on the season—it shines year-round in the stories, art, and warmth of its people. Make time for it, and you’ll find yourself wanting to stay just a little longer.