The longstanding connection between the Netherlands and Russia is visible in the St Petersburg branch of the State Hermitage Museum. Here, visitors can explore the museum’s permanent Portrait Gallery of the Golden Age, which features formal group portraits of the Dutch elite from the 17th century, and attend blockbuster temporary exhibitions of art and artifacts from the Hermitage’s vast collection. Additionally, the Outsider Gallery showcases temporary shows, and I Amsterdam and Museum card holders are eligible for free entrance or discounted prices, depending on the exhibition. This museum is a testament to Tsar Peter the Great’s journey to the Netherlands in 1697 to learn shipbuilding.