Saint Petersburg Botanical Garden

The Saint Petersburg Botanical Garden is a major plant collection spread across about 25 greenhouses on Aptekarsky Island. Beyond the greenhouses, the grounds include outdoor tree collections and a museum section that together make up the complete facility.

The garden was founded in 1714 as an Apothecary Garden to grow medicinal plants for pharmaceutical use. In 1823 it was transformed into an Imperial Botanical Garden, gaining its current role as a major scientific and cultural institution.

The garden functions as a place where visitors walk among palm trees and exotic plants from around the world. Different sections create distinct environments, allowing you to experience tropical species, orchids, and cacti each in their own carefully organized spaces.

The garden sits on an island and is easily reached by public transport, with the main grounds walkable on foot. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, as much time is spent moving between the various sections and greenhouses.

A notable plant in the garden is a moonlight cactus that has been cultivated since 1824, making it one of the oldest living specimens in the collection. This long-lived plant has an interesting history, having outlasted many generations of gardeners.

Location: Saint Petersburg

Inception: February 11, 1714

Founders: Peter the Great

Part of: Komarov Botanical Institute

Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10:00-18:00

Website: http://botsad-spb.com

GPS coordinates: 59.97009,30.32709

Latest update: December 7, 2025 10:03