St Petersburg Getting Around

On foot

Walking in St Petersburg is a pleasure, and most of the major sights can easily be reached on foot. The city is full of fabulous squares, fine parks and excellent viewpoints, and Nevsky Prospect is the key to orientation.

Metro

The Metro is the best way to cross the city rapidly, and is cheap, efficient and safe. There are only 4 lines. One ticket is valid for the entire system with no time limit, and multi-ticket cards are even cheaper. Trains run from 06.00 to 24.00.

Bus, trolley bus & tram

All three are very cheap and reasonably efficient. Public transport runs from 06.00 to 24.00. Tickets can be bought from the driver or from metro stations and kiosks, and multi-ticket packs are cheaper. Bus stops are yellow and marked “A”. Trolleybus stops have a blue "T." and trams “Tp”. Private express buses are faster and a little more expensive.

Marshrutnoye Taksi

These are shared minibus taxis that ply many of the same routes as the buses and trolleybuses, but are more expensive. They can be stopped like a taxi and you can say when you want to get off.

Taxi

Taxis are quite expensive. They can be found outside major hotels, and official taxis can be ordered by phone. Fares should be negotiated beforehand but don’t expect the driver to speak English, and you can try to find out approximate fares from your hotel receptionist. Drivers will accept dollars.

Sightseeing tours

Sightseeing tours are a good way to get your bearings and take in the major sights. Look out for themed walking tours and boat trips on the river.

Getting from St Petersburg airport

Pulkovo International Airport is 10 miles south of St Petersburg. Finding a taxi is easy but some of these may be “unofficial”. Taxis can be booked beforehand from taxi counters. Much cheaper is the 13 bus (international terminal) or 39 bus (domestic) to Moskovskaya metro station and then onwards. The larger hotels can arrange transfers.