Catherine Palace (Czarskoe Selo, St. Petersburg)
Catherine Palace (Czarskoe Selo, St. Petersburg): this palace was named after Catherine I (wife of Peter the Great). Finished in 1756, the extravagance invested into this palace ranged from its size (1 km in circumference), to its exterior (with elaborately decorated blue-and-white facades, and trimmings laced with 100 kg. of gold). The palace’s interior is highlighted by the legendary Amber Room – originally completed in 1770 and renovated by 2002 under orders of President Vladimir Putin (which has become a major tourist attraction in St. Petersburg). Admission: RUB 320 (adult), RUB 160 (student), RUB 100 (children) (RUB150 for audio guide in English, French or German). Hours: 10 am – 6 pm daily (except Tuesday and last Monday of the month).