This city has been named ‘Europe’s Leading Destination’ second year running

From: Allison Wallace - Yahoo7 Be

The city, which is home to the Hermitage Museum and the Kirov Ballet, has been rewarded for its exceptionally rich history, centuries-old traditions and bright future.

St Petersburg is also known for its White Nights – when the onset of summer in the northern city means nearly endless days that bring all sorts of celebrations to the streets.

"This prestigious award proves that the development of the tourism industry in St. Petersburg is of a high level. We are proud of the recognition by the international community and of the fact that St. Petersburg became the tourism capital not only of Russia, but also for Europe," said the head of St. Petersburg’s Tourism Development Committee Andrey Mushkaryov.

Last year, St. Petersburg claimed the title of Europe’s leading destination becoming the first Russian city to win this category in the award’s 23-year history. It triumphed over Amsterdam, Barcelona, Berlin, London, Paris and others from a list of 13 nominees.

St Petersburg was also declared the host for the World Travel Awards Europe Gala Ceremony 2017.

“It will be an honour for World Travel Awards to visit for Russia for the first time in 2017,” said the awards group’s president Graham Cooke in a statement on the website.

“Saint Petersburg is one of the most famous cities in the world and this is a fantastic opportunity for the city to take its rightful place as a top rank tourism destination,” added Cooke.

Also receiving top titles during the Europe Gala Ceremony 2016 at Forte Village Resort in Sardinia were Europcar, taking the trophy for Europe’s Leading Car Rental Company, and the Madeira Islands, which took the title of Europe's Leading Island Destination.

French tourism capital Lyon was also celebrating after being recognised as Europe's Leading City Break Destination while Rome Cavalieri, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, was presented with the trophy for Europe's Leading Luxury City Resort.

In the aviation sector, Lufthansa defended its title of Europe’s Leading Airline.