Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Cafes
A few Russian coffeeshop chains have followed their Western counterparts and
opened up outlets on every corner. Rest assured, you will never be far from a Coffee
House (Кофе Хауз), Ideal Cup (Идеальная Чашка) or Shokoladnitsa
(Шокаладница). But the independent cafes listed in this guide earn higher marks for
atmosphere and artistry.
Drinking & Nightlife by Neighbourhood
»
Historic Heart
An endless choice of smart cafes, cool bars and busy clubs
centred on Dumskaya ul.
»
Smolny & Vosstaniya
The city's coolest district is the preferred haunt of
hipsters, serious musicians and clubbers.
»
Sennaya & Kolomna
Despite being decidedly quiet for the most part,
there are a few excellent bars here.
»
Vasilyevsky Island
This residential area isn't noted for nightlife, but its
big student population means it's never sleepy.
»
Petrograd & Vyborg Sides
It's rather quiet after dark north of the Neva,
but Petrograd is home to the excellent Tunnel Club.
NEED TO KNOW
Opening Hours
Most pubs and bars are open very late indeed - typically from 6pm until 6am,
although many use the cunningly unclear phrase 'until the last customer' (ie as
long as you're still buying the drinks, the staff will be there to serve them to
