Yusupov Palace, on the Moika River in St Petersburg, was the city residence of the wealthy Yusupov family. Its preserved rooms span several styles, with ornate halls, artworks and a private theatre among the highlights. The palace is also known as the place where Grigori Rasputin was murdered in 1916. You can explore the family’s history on a themed visit, and see a separate exhibition about Rasputin, including films and a reconstruction of the basement scene. Check which rooms your ticket covers before you go.
A noble residence on the Moika
Also known as Moika Palace, the residence stands beside the river in St Petersburg. The Yusupov family acquired it in the 1830s and made it their home, filling its rooms with art and elaborate furnishings. The building’s exterior is comparatively restrained; inside, the rooms reveal the wealth and tastes of one of Russia’s most influential noble families.
The palace was built in the 1770s and later altered for its new owners. Its interiors bring together several architectural influences, with Italian and Russian decorative work alongside rooms inspired by other traditions. Ornamental plasterwork, tapestries, artworks and crystal chandeliers are among the details to look for as you move through the preserved rooms.
Rooms, galleries and the private theatre
The palace’s rooms differ in character rather than following one uniform style. The Moorish-inspired room is noted for its patterned decoration, columns and golden gates. Other spaces include state rooms, parlors and art galleries. The private theatre has a baroque-style stage and was part of the family’s home; it remains a central feature of the palace visit.
Some themed excursions include the theatre, while performances have also taken place there. The palace can host theatre and ballet as well as other events. Access to rooms is not identical on every visit, so check the details of the ticket or excursion you choose before setting out.
The palace and Rasputin’s murder
The palace is closely associated with the murder of Grigori Rasputin in 1916. Prince Felix Yusupov and fellow conspirators killed him there, an event that gave the residence a lasting place in accounts of late Imperial Russian history. The Rasputin exhibition covers his life and death through films and displays, and includes a reconstruction of the basement scene.
This exhibition is a separate part of the visit, not necessarily included with every palace ticket. One format allows visitors to explore at their own pace, while other visits use a guide and follow a set schedule. Confirm whether the basement exhibition is included when choosing your ticket.
Planning your visit
The palace recommends booking tickets in advance. Ticket options can differ in which floors, rooms and exhibitions they cover, and some visits take place at a specified time with a guide. If you want to see the Rasputin material as well as the main rooms, check that both are included before booking.
An audio guide is available with a deposit, which is returned when the device is handed back. Camera use and access to certain private rooms may involve additional charges. Some rooms have been closed for restoration, so the route through the palace may not include every interior.
FAQ
Is the Rasputin exhibition included with every ticket?
No. Ticket options can cover different rooms and exhibitions. Check whether the basement exhibition is included before booking.
Can you visit Yusupov Palace with an audio guide?
Yes, an audio guide is available with a deposit. One reported deposit was 1,000 rubles, returned when the guide was handed back.
Can you take photos inside Yusupov Palace?
Camera use may cost extra. Check the current ticket conditions before your visit.
When is a good time to visit Yusupov Palace?
Weekdays are a good choice if you want to avoid the busier weekend crowds.
