Catherine Palace

The Catherine Palace is a Rococo imperial residence in the town of Pushkin (Tsarskoye Selo) near St. Petersburg, notable for its ornate façade and richly decorated state rooms. The palace’s interior includes the world-famous Amber Room, reconstructed and reopened in 2003.

Visitors tour the grand state rooms and staircases, see extensive interior decoration in gilding and plasterwork, and step into formal gardens and a large park that form part of the palace complex. The Amber Room is a primary draw, with a separate flow of visitors inside the palace.

Originally established as a residence for Catherine I in the early 18th century, the palace was substantially rebuilt in the mid-18th century by architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli in a lavish Rococo style. The Amber Room was looted in World War II and its reconstruction was completed in 2003.

Located in Pushkin, approximately 25 km south of central St. Petersburg, the palace is reached by road or suburban rail and sits within a larger ensemble of imperial parks and estates.

• Ticketing tip: Buy timed tickets in advance during the summer months and allow time for the queue to see the Amber Room.
• When to visit: The palace is usually busiest in July and August; autumn and spring offer fewer crowds for visiting interiors and gardens.

What to See #

• Amber Room: A reconstructed chamber famed for its amber panels and gilt decorations, the room was rebuilt and reopened to the public in 2003 after the original was lost during World War II.
• Gardens and parkland: The palace grounds include formal French-style parterres and the adjacent Alexander Park with avenues, ponds and subsidiary pavilions.