So I find the petroff defence a bit annoying so after

1.e4 e5

2.Nf3 Nf6

what are sound alternatives to 3.Nxe5, or is that move really the best and should I suck it up and learn how to deal with positions that follow?

3.d4 is a good alternative, but the positions are still rather boring it seems...

3.d4 is the other mainline, though you can also try Bc4 and maybe Nc3

Also, you might try the Cochrane, 3.Nxe5 d6 4. Nxf7?! (or possibly !?)

A more current way to mix up the Petroff in the 3. Nxe5 line is 5. Nc3 with 6. dxc3.

Another alternative is to play 3. Nc3 and go into a different opening system--it will usually transpose into a 4 Knights

A more current way to mix up the Petroff in the 3. Nxe5 line is 5. Nc3 with 6. dxc3.

I saw this a great deal during my years of playing the Petrov, but I always felt strong after 3...Bb4.