Saint Petersburg Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Chronological Planning Timeline

A step-by-step guide to prepare for your trip.

Planning Milestones

steps to take at different stages before your journey.

1

+ Months Before

Passport Validity Check

Your passport must extend six months beyond visa expiry.

Visa Application

Research and apply for the appropriate Russian visa. This process takes time.

Government Advisories

Check your government's travel warnings for Russia. These are severe for many Western nations.

2

Month Before

Itinerary Finalization

Complete your Saint Petersburg itinerary.

Attraction Tickets

Pre-book tickets for main sights (Hermitage, Mariinsky) through local Russian sites, if possible.

Language Learning

Learn basic Russian phrases.

3

Week Before

Packing

Pack according to the season and your planned activities.

Document Copies

Print all essential documents (passport, visa, insurance, reservations) and save digital copies.

Reconfirmations

Reconfirm accommodation and transfer details.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these items in advance.

Essential Travel Items

Visa: This is the main requirement.
Flights: Book in advance to secure routes and prices.
Accommodation: Essential, especially during peak season.
High-Demand Theatre Tickets: Book Mariinsky Theatre admission or other popular performances well in advance.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Things to handle at home for a worry-free trip.

Household & Personal Tasks

Inform family and friends of your itinerary.
Arrange for pet or house-sitting if needed.
Hold your mail or arrange for a neighbor to collect it.
Plan to bring a substantial amount of USD or EUR cash.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Thorough research for a well-informed journey.

Current Restrictions

Deeply research current travel restrictions.
Understand the geopolitical context.
Note how restrictions might impact your trip.
Continuous checking is advisable.

Safety Warnings

Familiarize yourself with safety warnings.
Prioritize personal safety measures.
Understand consular assistance limitations.
Exercise caution and discretion.

Financial Realities

Be aware of the financial realities.
Foreign plastic cards are largely unusable.
Bring substantial cash (USD or EUR) for exchange.
Plan currency exchange upon arrival.

Cash Is King

Plan to bring a substantial amount of AMERICAN dollars or EUR cash to exchange into Rubles upon arrival. Don't depend on foreign credit or debit cards due to sanctions.

Arrival Checklist

These first steps upon arrival help a smooth start to your trip.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Immigration
Clear immigration and customs. Retain the immigration card issued; it is needed for departure.
2
Luggage
Collect your luggage after clearing immigration.
3
Orientation
Head to a metro station to purchase a Podorozhnik card, or use your pre-arranged airport transfer.

Initial Purchases & Transport

Currency Exchange
Exchange foreign currency (UNITED states dollars or EUR) to Rubles at an official exchange office or bank.
Local SIM Card
Purchase a local SIM card for connectivity if needed.
Transport to Accommodation
Use the bus or marshrutka to the metro, or take a pre-booked taxi or Yandex Go. Have cash ready for these initial transactions.

Departure Preparation

Souvenir and Shipping Considerations

Be aware of customs regulations for cultural items when purchasing souvenirs.

Shipping stuff can be expensive and subject to sanctions.

VAT Refund Procedures if applicable

Russia has a VAT refund system (Tax Free) for non-EAEU citizens.

Claiming it may be complicated and applies only to specific purchases. Verify current eligibility and the process.

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

Arrive at Pulkovo Airport 2.5-3 hours before your international flight.

This allows ample time for check-in, security, and passport control.

Return Trip Preparation

Ensure you have your passport, boarding pass, and the immigration card you received upon arrival. This card is essential for departure.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Deeply research current travel restrictions, safety warnings, plus economic realities. Understand the geopolitical context and how it might impact your trip.