Getting Around St Petersburg. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation

St. Petersburg relies on the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) for its public bus system, which covers the city and the wider Pinellas County. Its main function provides an affordable and reliable transportation option for residents and visitors.

A noteworthy addition to the PSTA system is the SunRunner. This Bus Rapid Transit line offers a faster, more efficient way to travel along its dedicated route. The SunRunner connects downtown St. Petersburg to the popular beach communities of St. Pete Beach, Madeira Beach, and Treasure Island. It uses dedicated lanes for portions of its route and features fewer stops than traditional buses, reducing travel time between the city's urban core and its Gulf beaches. The SunRunner is a clean, modern, and comfortable ride.

PSTA & SunRunner Details

System: Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) bus network.
Main Hub: PSTA Grand Central Station, 320 Central Ave, downtown St. Petersburg.
Fares: Single ride $2.25; 1-day unlimited pass $5.00.
Payment: Exact cash, GO CARD (smart card), or Flamingo Fares mobile app.

Route Maps & Hours

Detailed route maps and schedules on PSTA website. Most routes operate early morning to late evening. SunRunner has extended hours and frequent service.

Accessibility

All PSTA buses are wheelchair accessible with ramps/lifts and designated seating.

Efficient Navigation

Use Google Maps or Flamingo Fares app for real-time tracking. Plan routes and have fare ready before boarding.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Information

Licensed taxis are yellow or clearly marked with meters.
Booking by phone dispatch or finding at designated stands is more reliable than hailing.
Fares are metered; typically more expensive than ride-sharing.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

Uber and Lyft are widely available and popular choices.
Confirm driver's name, vehicle make/model, and license plate in app before entering.
Avoid unlicensed individuals soliciting transport.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Major companies at airports and in city.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Specialty rental shops for bikes/scooters.

Bicycle Share

St. Pete BikeShare (Pace app) and independent shops.

International Permit

IDP recommended for foreign licenses not in English.

Walking & Cycling

St. Petersburg's pedestrian and cycling infrastructure makes exploration intimate. These options contribute to experiencing the city's atmosphere and natural beauty.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Downtown St. Petersburg: Highly walkable with wide sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, and waterfront promenades.
The St. Pete Pier: A pedestrian haven with attractions, dining, and scenic views (tram service available).
Central Arts & Edge Districts: Very walkable, offering street murals, galleries, breweries, and unique shops.
Various guided or self-guided walking tours are available.

Bicycle Infrastructure & Safety

Pinellas Trail: A 47-mile paved multi-use trail running through St. Petersburg, providing an excellent cycling route.
Expanding network of dedicated bike lanes on city streets.
Always wear a Helmet when cycling (required for under 16, recommended for all).
Obey all traffic laws, use hand signals, and be aware of vehicle traffic.

No-Go Areas & Safety

Major highways and interstates (e.g., I-275) are not designed for pedestrian or cyclist use and are best avoided.
Causeways to beaches can be busy; use caution or designated paths.
Tourist-frequented areas are safe for walking/cycling.

Use common urban safety practices, especially at night in less populated areas.
Use lights and reflectors if cycling after dark.
For an excellent cycling experience, spend a day on the Pinellas Trail.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Private operators offer guided tours focusing on landmarks, art districts, or beaches.

Cross-Bay Ferry

Seasonal passenger service connecting downtown St. Petersburg to downtown Tampa.

Boat Charters

Private charters, dolphin watching, sunset cruises from St. Pete Pier and marinas.

Transportation Tip

For predictable pricing, especially during peak hours or from airports, use ride-sharing apps. The fare estimate before booking aids budget management.

For unique views of the city and a relaxing journey across the bay, consider using the Cross-Bay Ferry when it operates seasonally.

Getting Around St Petersburg