Frequently Asked Questions
Here you will find answers to frequently asked questions about visiting the Yusupov Palace, tickets, tour routes, audio guides, events, and the “Mysteries” performances.
Explore the sections on the right. Questions are grouped by topic to help you find the information you need.
Visiting the Palace
Where is the entrance to the Palace?
The entrance to the Palace is at 21 Dekabristov Street. Walk through the park and the main courtyard, following the signs.
Why is the entrance on Dekabristov Street rather than the Moika Embankment?
Historically, the main entrance was from the main courtyard in the 18th century and later from the Moika River Embankment in the 19th century. The entrance from the Moika side is not designed to accommodate large numbers of visitors. The entrance from Dekabristov Street has made it possible to provide comfortable waiting areas, ticket offices, and information boards, while also allowing visitors to explore the entire Yusupov estate complex.
Why does the website not state that the entrance is only from Dekabristov Street?
This information is provided in the Palace Visitor Rules on the official website: yusupov-palace.ru/ru/visitors/rules It is also stated on the website’s homepage.
Why is there a metal detector at the entrance?
The Palace is required to comply with anti-terrorism security regulations under Resolution No. 176 of the Government of the Russian Federation, dated February 11, 2017. The metal detector is safe and does not infringe upon visitors’ personal rights.
Can I leave the Palace via the Moika River Embankment?
No. Under the Visitor Rules, entry and exit are only via 21 Dekabristov Street.
Can I enter the café, use the restrooms, or access the ATM without a ticket?
No. A ticket is required to enter the Palace building. The café is located in the park, which is open to visitors free of charge.
Are there restrooms in the park?
Russian law does not require public green spaces to provide restroom facilities. Visitor restrooms are located inside the Palace.
Can I visit the Palace with a stroller?
Yes, visitors may bring strollers into the Palace. Please ensure that the wheels are clean and note that there is no elevator in the Palace.
Is the Palace accessible to visitors with disabilities?
The Palace is partially accessible to visitors with different types of disabilities. Visitors using wheelchairs can access the interiors on the ground floor. A video tour of the state rooms on the second floor is available in the Winter Garden.
Are event age ratings mandatory or advisory?
The age ratings are advisory.
Why are the information signs in the rooms not illuminated?
Work is currently underway to improve visitor signage and wayfinding, including the introduction of illuminated information displays. Please check the website for updates.
Who owns the Yusupov Palace?
The Yusupov Palace is a cultural heritage site of federal significance owned by the City of St. Petersburg.
Tickets and Concessions
How can I buy a ticket?
Tickets can be purchased on the official website under “Buy Ticket” or at the Palace ticket office. Please note that the Palace is not responsible for tickets purchased from third-party organizations.
When do tickets for the following month go on sale?
Tickets for guided group tours in the following month go on sale on the 23rd of the current month.
Is Palace admission included in the price of a guided tour?
Yes, Palace admission is included in the guided tour price.
Do children under seven need a ticket for a self-guided visit?
Children under seven can take the self-guided tour free of charge. A free ticket must be obtained at the ticket office.
Do children under seven need a ticket for a guided tour?
Yes. A concessionary ticket is required for a child under seven to join a guided tour.
Who is eligible for free admission or concessionary tickets?
The following categories are entitled to free admission to the “State Halls of the Palace and Living Quarters of the Prince” self-guided tour with an audio guide (Russian citizens only):
- Children under seven and orphans
- Heroes of the Soviet Union, Heroes of the Russian Federation, and full holders of the Order of Glory
- People with disabilities, veterans and participants of the Great Patriotic War, and former concentration camp prisoners
- Recipients of the Medal “For the Defence of Leningrad” and the Badge “Resident of Besieged Leningrad”
- Veterans of military service abroad
- Participants in the Special Military Operation (SMO) and members of their families
- Members of large families
- People with Group I disabilities
- Museum employees and members of ICOM
The following categories are entitled to concessionary tickets (self-guided tour with an audio guide):
- Children under 18 (Russian citizens)
- Pensioners (citizens of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus)
- Full-time university and vocational college students (Russian citizens)
- People with Group II or III disabilities (Russian citizens)
Free and concessionary tickets are issued only at the Palace ticket office (21 Dekabristov Street) upon presentation of supporting documents.
Are there concessions for participants in the Special Military Operation?
Yes. Participants in the Special Military Operation (SMO) and their family members are entitled to free admission to the “State Halls of the Palace and Living Quarters of the Prince” self-guided tour with an audio guide. Free tickets are issued only at the Palace ticket office (21 Dekabristov Street) upon presentation of supporting documents.
What should I do if the website is not working or I cannot purchase a ticket?
We recommend trying the following:
- Turn off your VPN
- Switch networks or connect to Wi-Fi
- Refresh the page or try another browser
If the problem persists, please contact the ticket office: tel. +7 (921) 970-30-38, email: bs@yusupov-palace.ru
Why have I not received my paid e-ticket?
Please contact the ticket office to have your ticket resent: tel. +7 (921) 970-30-38, email: bs@yusupov-palace.ru
Do I need to exchange my e-ticket for a paper ticket at the entrance?
No. Your e-ticket is valid as issued and can be used to enter the Palace without exchanging it.
Tour Routes and Audio Guides
How do I choose a tour route? What is the difference between them?
The routes differ in the number of rooms visited, duration, and price. Route No. 1 is a good choice for a first visit, as it includes the most famous state rooms. Route No. 6 is the most comprehensive and covers all rooms open to visitors. The Home Theater is included in every route.
Where can I collect an audio guide? Can I leave identification documents as a deposit?
Audio guides are available from the ticket office or on the lower ground floor of the Palace. A refundable deposit of 1,000 rubles is required and will be returned when you hand back the device. Please note: identity documents, including passports, are not accepted as a deposit. Article 19.17(2) of the Russian Code of Administrative Offences expressly prohibits accepting a passport as collateral.
How can I download the audio guide to my phone?
A mobile version of the audio guide is available in the Yusupov Palace app for Android and iOS. The code for downloading the audio tour can be found in the email sent after purchasing a ticket online or on the ticket itself if purchased at the ticket office. We recommend downloading the tour in advance.
Events and Photo Shoots
How can I organize an event at the Palace?
For information and to submit an application, please contact the Events Department: tel. +7 812 314-86-90, +7 812 600-24-78, email: event@yusupov-palace.ru
Can I arrange a photo shoot at the Palace?
The Yusupov Palace offers wedding photo shoots for newlyweds on the day of their wedding. To apply and learn about the rules, please contact the Events Department: tel. +7 812 314-86-90, +7 812 600-24-78, email: event@yusupov-palace.ru. Further information and the application form are also available in the “Services” section of our website.
The “Mysteries” Performances
Is there a dress code for the “Mysteries” performances?
The recommended dress code depends on the format of the performance:
- “Mysteries. Theater play in the House of the Yusupovs” — you will be walking quite a lot, so please wear comfortable shoes and bring a small handbag.
- “Mysteries. Theatrical Reception at the Yusupov Palace” — formal attire is strongly recommended: elegant dresses and jewellery for women, and suits for men. Please avoid sharp stiletto heels and bulky bags.