Frequently asked questions
Saint Petersburg: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is June-August. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Saint Petersburg: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +24.0°C, during the day — up to +23.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Saint Petersburg: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +-9.0°C, during the day — up to +-3.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Saint Petersburg: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +19.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Saint Petersburg: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on August-October. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Saint Petersburg: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand with pebbles" surface, golden sand, clear water. The most popular beaches: Peter and Paul Fortress Beach. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Saint Petersburg: is it safe to swim in the sea?
The overall danger level in the sea is rated as high — swimming is only recommended in specially designated areas. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Saint Petersburg: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: jellyfish. Jellyfish are found in the Gulf of Finland, swimming is often prohibited due to water quality.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Saint Petersburg: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around 6 576 ₽ (≈ $78.36) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the
trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Saint Petersburg: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — 1 000 ₽ per night, a 3-star hotel room — 3 600 ₽ per night, a 4-star hotel — 7 000 ₽ per night, a five-star hotel — 15 000 ₽ per night, an apartment — 4 500 ₽ per night, a villa — 10 000 ₽ per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Saint Petersburg: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — 800 ₽, dinner at a restaurant — 1 956 ₽, a cup of cappuccino — 250 ₽, a 0.5L beer — 400 ₽, a 1.5L bottle of water — 80 ₽. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Saint Petersburg: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — 1 500 ₽, a single public transport ticket — 70 ₽, a short taxi ride — 400 ₽, car rental — 3 000 ₽ per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Saint Petersburg: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Hermitage — One of the largest art museums in the world.; St. Isaac's Cathedral — Majestic cathedral with a colonnade and panoramic view.; Peter and Paul Fortress — The historical core of the city on Hare Island.; Nevsky Prospekt — The city's main street with shops and attractions.; Cruiser Aurora — Legendary cruiser-museum on the embankment.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Saint Petersburg: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Smelt — Small fish with the smell of fresh cucumber, a symbol of St. Petersburg.; Pyshki — Fried donuts according to a Soviet recipe.; Leningrad rassolnik — Traditional soup with pickles and pearl barley.; Shawarma — Popular street fast food.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Saint Petersburg: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Centre — Main attractions, shops, restaurants.; Vasilyevsky Island — Historic district with the university and embankment.; Petrograd Side — District with the Peter and Paul Fortress and parks.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Saint Petersburg: is a visa required?
Visa: required. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Saint Petersburg: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Пулково (code LED). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is 1 500 ₽. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Saint Petersburg: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — RUB. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is 6 576 ₽ (≈ $78.36). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Saint Petersburg: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Saint Petersburg: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as high. There are plenty of bars, clubs and restaurants that stay open until morning.
Saint Petersburg: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Peterhof — Town with fountains and a palace and park ensemble, ~30 km.; Pushkin — Town with the Catherine Palace and the Amber Room, ~25 km.; Vyborg — Medieval town with a castle, ~140 km.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.
