Depart the city center of St. Petersburg and journey by bus to the imperial Peterhof Palace complex. Upon arrival, explore the former summer residence of the Russian tsars, built on the orders of Peter the Great. Admire the beautiful parks and gardens featuring fountains and sculptures glistening with gold. See the Grand Cascade and Samson Fountain, designed to rival the finest palaces and gardens of Europe. Go into the Lower Garden and stroll along alleys of neatly clipped trees. Discover an outstanding example of Baroque architecture in the elaborate halls and galleries of the Grand Palace.   One of the most popular tourist attractions in Russia, Peterhof Palace is particularly spectacular from late May through mid-October, when 147 fountains in the park are active. Founded as a monument to the Russian victory over Sweden, the estate is worth a visit at any time of the year.