If there’s one place that completely floored me on this Russian leg of my journey, it was the Hermitage Museum. Located in the heart of Saint Petersburg, it’s not just Russia’s most famous museum—it’s one of the greatest cultural institutions in the world. With over 3 million items in its collection, the Hermitage isn’t just something you visit—it’s something you experience, explore, and survive.
The museum is housed inside the Winter Palace, once the home of the Russian tsars. I’d seen photos of the mint-green and white façade, but standing in Palace Square and gazing up at this enormous baroque structure was another level. It’s like the Louvre and Buckingham Palace had a child—and that child decided to hoard all the world’s art treasures.
A Labyrinth of Masterpieces
Inside, I wandered through endless rooms filled with jaw-dropping artworks from every major civilisation and art movement you can imagine. Da Vinci, Rembrandt, Michelangelo, Van Gogh, Monet—you name them, they’re here. Even the floors and ceilings are works of art. I found myself constantly distracted, looking up, down, and sideways all at once.
The highlight for me was the Leonardo da Vinci room, home to two of his original paintings. The silence in that space was different—almost reverent. People stood in awe, taking in brushstrokes older than most countries. But the Hermitage isn’t just about European masters. There are entire sections dedicated to ancient Egypt, classical Greece and Rome, and Asian artefacts. It’s a full sweep through global history, all under one roof.
The Building Is the Exhibit
What makes the Hermitage truly special isn’t just the collection—it’s the setting. The Winter Palace itself is part of the show. Gold-trimmed doorways, marble staircases, enormous chandeliers, and massive ballrooms remind you that this was once a place of imperial power. I could almost hear the whispers of royalty echoing off the walls as I moved from room to room.
A Day Isn’t Enough
There’s no way to see everything in one visit. I spent over six hours exploring, and I barely scratched the surface. But honestly, it’s not about seeing everything—it’s about immersing yourself in it. Let the art guide you. Get lost. It’s part of the fun.
Final Thought
The Hermitage isn’t just a museum—it’s a portal through time, a temple of beauty, and a celebration of humanity’s greatest achievements. Whether you’re into art, architecture, or history, this place is a must. Just wear comfortable shoes and bring a sense of wonder—you’re going to need both.
