UNique - 7/10

The second capital of Russia could not be more different from the official one. The commercial gloss and modernity of Moscow gives way to the historic tarnish and culture of Saint Petersburg. This is not to say that the city is not impressive or beautiful, quite the opposite, as the lack of a gleam allows for a certain charm and cosiness which money can't always provide. Despite having been designed as the imperial city with its many palaces, squares and avenues, Saint Petersburg is replete with a variety of lesser-known communal places, hidden in the courtyards, narrow alleyways and behind the deceptive storefronts.

ESsential - 8/10

Saint Petersburg is paramount to the development of the Russian history. The seat of Peter and Catherine (both the Greats, but each in their own individual way), the starting point of the Bolshevik revolution, the site of the most brutal siege during the Second World War, the city is a treasure trove of historical and cultural artifacts, as each new turn reveals a residence of a famous writer or a beautiful building or a shady waterway. There are simply too many places of interest to list them all, and one simply has to allow themselves time to comprehensively experience the city.

COst-effective - 4/10

Chances are that if time is not exactly a limit on your trip to Saint Petersburg, then the money will soon become. Saint Petersburg is not a cheap city to experience with accommodations, food and entrances to the museums quickly adding up. The regular 700-ruble ticket to Hermitage is almost not worth it, unless you are quite happy to spend several hours waiting in line. Instead, splash on the online ticket, catering to the impatient tourists, and skip the line.