Sonia Zhuravlyova

Built by former emperor Peter the Great as a "window on the West," Russia’s imperial capital is a treasure trove of art and culture, spectacular palaces, cathedrals and things to do: St Petersburg is to be added to your travel bucket list. Think of it as the yin to capital city Moscow's yang. St Petersburg also vibrates with its rich maritime and revolutionary history. Whether arriving by plane, train or boat, the approach won’t be disappointing. Wander the narrow cobbled streets, marvel at buzzing Nevsky Prospect, glide along the peaceful canals or cross one of the 342 bridges. And don’t forget to explore the country's culinary offerings, too. Russian food, when done well, is homely and satisfying and the city’s restaurant scene has attested to that trend lately. Let your palate guide you just as much as your curiosity. Done something on this list and loved it? Share it with the hashtag #TimeOutDoList and tag @TimeOutEverywhere. Find out more about how Time Out selects the very best things to do all over the world.

The capital of Russia has a lot of power pulsating through its veins, and the best things to do in Moscow indicate just that. From imposing architecture to broad avenues lined with shops and restaurants, this is a fast-paced city that is revelling in its new-found riches. It’s a place that hasn’t forgotten its history: be it under tzar-rule or as part of the Soviet Union. Founded in the twelfth-century, Moscow emerged as a leading metropolis. Although somewhat demoted under Peter the Great who moved the capital to St Petersburg, it continued to prosper as an important cultural and economic centre and became the country’s capital again in 1917 after the Bolsheviks took power. The past few decades have seen much of the city become cleaner and safer, with new building and construction work bringing transport links and infrastructure up to date. Plus, it’s now home to cool contemporary art galleries and trendy restaurants that make the most of local ingredients. Done something on this list and loved it? Share it with the hashtag #TimeOutDoList and tag @TimeOutEverywhere. Find out more about how Time Out selects the very best things to do all over the world.