The best time to visit Saint Petersburg is during the late spring to early summer (mid-May to June), when the weather is mild and the city experiences its famous White Nights, with nearly 24 hours of daylight. July and August are also popular for tourists, but these months can be rainier.
Most foreign visitors need a visa to enter Russia. However, there are some exceptions and new regulations, including the e-visa for Saint Petersburg for citizens of certain countries, which is valid for short tourist stays. It's essential to check the latest visa requirements specific for your country before planning your trip.
Saint Petersburg is known for its cultural attractions and historic architecture. Top sites include the Hermitage Museum, the Winter Palace, the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, Peter and Paul Fortress, St. Isaac's Cathedral, and the Mariinsky Theatre. Additionally, a visit to the nearby Peterhof Palace and Gardens is highly recommended.
The official language in Saint Petersburg is Russian. However, due to the city's popularity with international tourists, English is commonly spoken in major hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions.
The currency used in Saint Petersburg, as in the rest of Russia, is the Russian Ruble (RUB). It's advisable to have local currency on hand, as not all places accept credit cards, especially in smaller establishments and street vendors.
Saint Petersburg has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, trolleybuses, and a well-connected metro. Taxis are also widely available, and ride-hailing apps are operational in the city. For a more scenic route, tourists can take advantage of the city's river and canal boats during the warmer months.
Saint Petersburg is generally safe for tourists. Common sense precautions should be taken, such as being aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas and avoiding unlit or deserted areas at night. As always, staying informed about current travel advisories from your home country is crucial before and during your trip.
It is not recommended to drink tap water in Saint Petersburg due to the risk of waterborne diseases. Instead, tourists should opt for bottled water or water that has been filtered and boiled.
Russia uses the Type C and Type F power outlets, common across Europe, and the standard voltage is 220V with a frequency of 50Hz. Travelers from countries with different electrical standards should bring adapters and converters as necessary.
When visiting cathedrals and churches, dress conservatively and remove your hat as a sign of respect. Also, tipping in restaurants is customary and appreciated, with 10-15% being the standard rate if the service has been satisfactory.
