The State Hermitage Museum is the largest museum in Russia and one of the largest in the world. It was founded by Catherine the Great in 1764 as a private collection of art. In 1852 the New Hermitage was established and opened specifically for public viewing.
Currently the museum occupies 12 buildings, and its main exhibition is housed in five of them, which represents the Main Museum Complex, located between the Neva embankment and Palace Square. It is fair to say that the Winter Palace, which became part of the museum in 1918, is the main building, with the ceremonial interiors, private chambers of the imperial family and gold enfilades occupying a special place.
The State Hermitage has a collection of over three million works of art and artefacts of world culture. It includes paintings, graphics, sculptures, works of arts and crafts, archeological finds and numismatic objects.
Working Hours:
Tuesday - Sunday
10.30 - 18.00
Wednesday, Friday - 10.30 - 21.00
Monday - Closed
Average tour duration is about 3 hours.
Additionally, we can arrange private visits to the special Golden and Diamond Rooms of the Hermitage museum, which are available with special treasure room entry tickets only.
The reservation requires 2 weeks notice or 3 business days (minimum) notice for an additional fee. A tour in each rooms takes about an hour.
*Pre-booked private tickets are non-refundable.
*On your tour you will be accompanied by an experienced and licensed (highest category) guide.