Tsarskoye Selo, Saint Petersburg

Home to the Royal Residence of the former Russian Royalty, Tsarskoye Selo is a complex of palaces and gardens located a short distance away from the town of St. Petersburg. The complex consists of the Alexander Palace, Catherine Palace, and the Sophia Cathedral.

One of the most visually stunning tourist places in St. Petersburg, the palace buildings here are known for their marvelous baroque designs and paintings that decorate the walls here.

The lush landscaped gardens surrounding the complex are replete with flower bushes, fountains and even a little lake. Adjoining the premises is the Alexander Park, with its decorative bridges and a cemetery for royal horses.

Location: Pushkin 196600, Russia.

Highlights: Palace gardens, decorative  bridges, ornate architecture.