Local Customs & Etiquette in Saint Petersburg, Russia
1. Greeting Etiquette
Russians generally shake hands when greeting. In formal settings, a bow is also used.
- Formality Level: Understanding the level of formality in different situations
- Personal Space: Respecting personal space during greetings
- Timing: Knowing when to initiate a handshake or bow
2. Table Manners
In restaurants, it's customary to let the host pour drinks for others first.
- Waiting Turn: Knowing when to let others pour first
- Eating Speed: Maintaining a moderate eating speed during meals
- Tableware Use: Understanding the appropriate use of tableware in different dishes
3. Public Transport
Giving up your seat for an elderly or pregnant person is a common courtesy.
- Respect for Elders: Understanding the importance of respecting elders
- Seat Sharing: Knowing when and how to share a seat on public transport
- Personal Belongings: Knowing where to place your personal belongings on public transport
4. Dining Etiquette
Leaving a tip in restaurants is not common but appreciated.
- Tipping Culture: Understanding the tipping culture and expectations
- Table Settings: Knowing the typical table settings in Russian restaurants
- Menu Navigation: Navigating menus and understanding Russian dishes
5. Shopping Etiquette
Bargaining is not common in most shops but might be expected in markets.
- Bargaining Culture: Understanding when and where bargaining is acceptable
- Payment Methods: Knowing the accepted payment methods in different shops
- Return Policy: Understanding return policies for items purchased
6. Dress Code
Smart casual is generally acceptable in most social settings.
- Social Event Dress Codes: Understanding the dress codes for different social events
- Weather Considerations: Considering the weather when packing and dressing
- Modesty Standards: Respecting local modesty standards
7. Public Behavior
Littering is frowned upon and considered disrespectful.
- Cleanliness Standards: Understanding cleanliness standards in public places
- Personal Space: Respecting personal space in crowded public areas
- Noise Levels: Maintaining appropriate noise levels in public places
8. Taxis and Car Services
Rounding up the fare or giving a small tip is appreciated by drivers.
- Tipping Culture: Understanding tipping expectations in taxis
- Safety Measures: Taking safety measures when using car services
- Car Service Navigation: Navigating the city and knowing the best car services
9. Cultural Events
Dressing formally for ballet performances is expected.
- Dress Code Standards: Understanding the dress code standards for cultural events
- Event Timings: Knowing the start and end times of cultural events
- Cultural Protocol: Understanding the protocol for attending cultural events
10. St. Isaac's Cathedral
Covering shoulders and knees is required for entry.
- Dress Code Requirements: Understanding the dress code requirements for entering the cathedral
- Photography Rules: Knowing where and when photography is allowed inside the cathedral
- Respectful Behavior: Behaving respectfully in a place of worship
11. The Hermitage Museum
Touching the artwork is strictly forbidden.
- Art Preservation: Understanding the importance of art preservation
- Photography Rules: Knowing where and when photography is allowed inside the museum
- Respectful Behavior: Behaving respectfully in a cultural institution
12. Peter and Paul Fortress
Respecting the historical significance of the fortress is important.
- Historical Significance: Understanding the historical significance of the fortress
- Security Measures: Taking security measures when visiting the fortress
- Photography Rules: Knowing where and when photography is allowed inside the fortress
13. Church of Our Savior on Spilled Blood
Covering shoulders and knees is required for entry.
- Dress Code Requirements: Understanding the dress code requirements for entering the church
- Photography Rules: Knowing where and when photography is allowed inside the church
- Respectful Behavior: Behaving respectfully in a place of worship
14. Nevsky Prospekt
Avoiding loud or disrespectful behavior is important.
- Respectful Behavior: Understanding the importance of respectful behavior in public spaces
- Shopping Considerations: Knowing where to find shops and services on Nevsky Prospekt
- Transportation Options: Understanding the transportation options available on Nevsky Prospekt
15. Nightlife Etiquette
Respecting others' personal space in clubs and bars is important.
- Personal Space: Understanding the importance of respecting personal space
- Dancing Etiquette: Knowing appropriate dancing etiquette in clubs and bars
- Alcohol Consumption: Understanding alcohol consumption norms and limits