Aptekarsky Island
Island St. Petersburg island hosting historic botanical garden
A small St. Petersburg island on the Neva, Aptekarsky hosts the city’s botanical garden and 18th-19th‑century townscape; visitors arrive for formal gardens, riverside walks and plant collections.
Aptekarsky Island is an island in the Neva River delta that is part of central St. Petersburg, Russia. The name means “Apothecary Island,” a reference to its long association with botanical and pharmaceutical gardens.
The island is largely urban and residential but contains significant green spaces and a historic botanical garden that is tied to the city’s scientific institutions. It functions as a mixed-use island with parks, streets and residential buildings rather than as an undeveloped islet.
Over the centuries the island was built up as St. Petersburg developed and has hosted horticultural and scientific facilities connected to the city’s botanical research. Its fabric reflects a mix of 18th to 20th century urban development.
Aptekarsky Island lies in the northern branch of the Neva River within central St. Petersburg, just north of Petrogradsky Island and integrated into the city’s central districts.
- Name origin: The island's name literally means "Apothecary Island," reflecting historical links to medicinal plants and early botanical activity.
What to See #
- Botanical Garden: A historic botanical garden established on the island that forms part of the city's scientific and horticultural institutions and occupies several hectares.
How to Get to Aptekarsky Island #
Accessible by public transport within St. Petersburg: take metro to stations near Petrogradskaya Island and then a short bus or tram ride; many visitors approach on foot across bridges from neighbouring islands. Taxis and riverboats are alternative options in warmer months.
Tips for Visiting Aptekarsky Island #
- Bring a map and allow time for slow walking - the island's gardens and research sites reward wandering.
- Check the schedule of the Komarov Botanical Garden if visiting its collections on the island; some research areas are closed to the public.
- In winter, dress very warmly - St. Petersburg winters turn the rivers and bridges into a glittering, icy landscape.
Best Time to Visit Aptekarsky Island #
Late spring through early autumn offers the most pleasant conditions for walking and park visits; winter is photogenic but harsh.
Weather & Climate near Aptekarsky Island #
Aptekarsky Island's climate is classified as Warm-Summer Continental - Warm-Summer Continental climate with mild summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -9°C to 22°C. Moderate rainfall (647 mm/year).
January
January is the coldest month with highs of -4°C and lows of -9°C. Moderate rainfall (40 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is freezing with highs of -3°C and lows of -9°C. Moderate rainfall (31 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is freezing with highs of 2°C and lows of -4°C. Moderate rainfall (39 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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April
April is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 1°C. Moderate rainfall (37 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (38 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 11°C. Moderate rainfall (63 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 22°C and lows of 14°C. The wettest month with 78 mm of rain and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 12°C. The wettest month with 78 mm of rain and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (69 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (67 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is freezing with highs of 2°C and lows of -2°C. Moderate rainfall (58 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is freezing with highs of -2°C and lows of -6°C. Moderate rainfall (49 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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