Saint Petersburg St-petersburg, Russia Travel Guide
The main international airport serving Saint Petersburg handles both domestic and international flights.
Several options connect the airport to the city center or your accommodation.
Flights mainly operate through Russian airlines (Aeroflot, Rossiya) and airlines from countries maintaining air links with Russia (e.g., The National flag carrier airline of turkey, Emirates, Etihad, Ethiopian Airways, Uzbekistan Airways).
Direct flight options from major hubs in Europe, North America, and Australia are generally unavailable. Connections via cities like Istanbul, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, The Capital of ethiopia, or Tashkent are common. Plan for longer travel times.
Flight prices typically increase during high season (summer, White Nights period) and major holidays (New Year). Reserving far in advance is advisable, though geopolitical factors influence pricing.
Foreign exchange counters are present at Pulkovo Airport.
ATMs are available, but foreign-issued cards typically do not work.
Have Ruble cash ready for bus fares or to pay taxi drivers if you do not use an app.
Long-distance trains link Saint Petersburg with other major Russian cities, mainly Moscow.
Bus services link Saint Petersburg with various other Russian cities.
Driving in Saint Petersburg can be challenging due to heavy traffic and assertive driving styles.
Roads are generally well-maintained, but congestion is common.
Cruise calls to Saint Petersburg by international cruise lines are suspended indefinitely by most major operators due to geopolitical circumstances.
Internal boat trips on the river operate on the Neva River and its numerous canals during warmer months.
International cruise calls and ferry services to Saint Petersburg are indefinitely suspended due to geopolitical circumstances.
Internal riverboat tours operate on the Neva River and its canals during warmer months (May-October), offering unique city views.
Hydrofoil services (Meteor boats) run from Saint Petersburg to Peterhof's Lower Park in summer, a scenic and fast option.
You won't pay exit fees typically apply to travelers departing from Russia.
Facilities cater to departing passengers, though payment options are limited for foreign cards.
Declare any goods exceeding duty-free limits or items of cultural/historical value.
Follow all instructions from airport security personnel. Liquids and electronics rules apply.
Confirm no things you can't bring are in your luggage to avoid delays.
Retain your immigration card, issued upon arrival, as you must present it upon departure. Keep all your travel documents easily accessible.
