Peterhof, St. Petersburg

Of all St. Petersburg's attractions, the country estate of Peterhof is perhaps the place that inspires the greatest pride among the city's population. Extravagant and bombastic in parts, elegant and relaxed in others, Peterhof's palace and grounds are a more than ample testimony to the crazy opulence of Tsarist Russia. The steps leading down from the palace to the lower gardens run next to the Grand Cascaden, a large area comprised of nearly 150 fountains, glittering golden statues and checkered ceramic. Admission fees vary.