Best Airports & How to Get from the Airport to the City in Saint Petersburg, Russia
1. Pulkovo International Airport
Pulkovo is the main international airport in Saint Petersburg. It offers direct flights to many European and Asian cities.
- Location: Located about 15 km south of the city center, Pulkovo International Airport is easily accessible by various modes of transportation.
- Transportation: The airport provides bus and train services to Moskovskaya Metro Station in the city center.
- Facilities: Pulkovo Airport offers duty-free shops, currency exchange, cafes, and free WiFi for passengers.
2. Moscow - Pulkovo Express Train
This high-speed train connects the airport with Moskovskaya Station in just 25 minutes.
- Speed: The Moscow - Pulkovo Express is the fastest way to reach the city center from the airport.
- Convenience: Tickets can be purchased online or at the station, and the train departs every few minutes.
- Comfort: The trains are comfortable and offer ample space for luggage.
3. Airport Taxi Services
Official airport taxis are readily available outside the arrivals hall. They provide a convenient and safe way to reach your destination.
- Safety: Taxis are licensed, reliable, and offer a safer option than unauthorized taxis.
- Comfort: Taxis have comfortable interiors and ample space for luggage.
- Cost: While more expensive than public transportation, taxis offer a convenient option when traveling with multiple people or heavy luggage.
4. Public Buses
Affordable and accessible, public buses connect the airport to various parts of Saint Petersburg.
- Cost: Bus fare is much cheaper than taxi or train fares.
- Availability: Buses run frequently, making them a reliable option for travelers.
- Coverage: Bus routes cover many areas of the city, making it easy to reach your destination.
5. Shuttle Services
Hotels and some tourist attractions offer shuttle services from the airport. Check with your hotel or tour provider for availability.
- Convenience: Shuttle services provide a hassle-free way to reach your accommodation or destination.
- Cost: While not as cheap as public transportation, shuttle services are often included in hotel packages or tour prices.
- Reliability: Shuttles run on a scheduled basis and will drop you off directly at your destination.
6. Metro Station
A metro station is located near Pulkovo Airport. The Metro provides a fast and affordable way to reach the city center.
- Speed: The Metro is one of the fastest ways to travel from the airport to the city.
- Cost: Metro tickets are very affordable, making it a budget-friendly option for travelers.
- Coverage: The Metro covers many parts of Saint Petersburg, making it easy to reach your destination.
7. Hotel Shuttle Services (for late arrivals)
Many hotels in Saint Petersburg offer late-night shuttle services for passengers arriving after public transportation has stopped.
- Convenience: Hotel shuttles provide a convenient way to reach your accommodation after hours.
- Reliability: Hotels ensure their shuttle services run on schedule, even during late hours.
- Cost: While not as cheap as public transportation, hotel shuttles are often included in the accommodation cost.
8. Private Car Services
For a more personalized experience, consider booking a private car service. They offer door-to-door transportation and can be booked in advance.
- Personalization: Private cars provide a customizable travel experience tailored to your needs.
- Convenience: With pre-booking, private cars ensure a hassle-free and on-time arrival.
- Comfort: Private cars offer comfortable interiors and ample space for luggage.
9. Tram Services
Trams provide an affordable and scenic way to travel from the airport to various parts of Saint Petersburg.
- Cost: Tram fare is very affordable, making it a budget-friendly option for travelers.
- Scenic Route: Trams offer a scenic view of the city as they pass through various neighborhoods.
- Accessibility: Trams are accessible and run frequently, making them a reliable option for travelers.
10. Shared Minivans
Shared minivans provide an affordable and efficient way to travel from the airport to various parts of Saint Petersburg. These services can be booked online.
- Cost: Shared minivans are more affordable than taxis or private cars.
- Efficiency: With multiple passengers, shared minivans provide a faster and more efficient way to travel compared to public buses.
- Convenience: Shared minivans offer door-to-door service and can be booked online for added convenience.
11. Ride-Sharing Services
Services like Yandex.Taxi and Gett offer ride-sharing options in Saint Petersburg. These services can be booked online or through their mobile apps.
- Cost: Ride-sharing services are a more affordable option compared to traditional taxis.
- Convenience: With online booking and apps, ride-sharing services offer added convenience for travelers.
- Safety: Ride-sharing services provide a safer option than unauthorized taxis due to driver background checks and GPS tracking.
12. Walking Tours
For travelers who prefer walking, consider joining a walking tour from the airport. Many tours offer pick-up services at the airport.
- Sightseeing: Walking tours provide an opportunity to explore the city and its attractions while getting from the airport to your destination.
- Convenience: Tours offer door-to-door service, making it easier to travel with heavy luggage.
- Informative: Tour guides provide insights and information about the city and its attractions.
13. Cycling Tours
For active travelers, consider joining a cycling tour from the airport. Many tours offer bike rentals and guides.
- Activity Level: Cycling tours provide an active way to explore the city while getting from the airport to your destination.
- Convenience: Tours offer bike rentals and guides, making it easier to travel with heavy luggage.
- Scenic Route: Cycling tours offer a scenic view of the city as you pedal through various neighborhoods.
14. Water Taxis
For a unique experience, consider taking a water taxi from the airport. Water taxis provide a scenic and efficient way to travel in Saint Petersburg.
- Scenic Route: Water taxis offer a unique view of the city's canals and waterfront.
- Efficiency: Water taxis are often faster than other modes of transportation due to Saint Petersburg's extensive canal system.
- Convenience: Water taxis can drop you off directly at your destination, making them a convenient option for travelers.
15. Saint Petersburg Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
The hop-on hop-off bus tour provides an efficient and flexible way to explore the city from the airport. The tour stops at popular attractions throughout Saint Petersburg.
- Flexibility: Hop-on hop-off bus tours offer passengers the flexibility to get on and off the bus as they please.
- Scenic Route: The tour offers a scenic view of the city, including popular attractions like the Hermitage Museum and Saint Isaac's Cathedral.
- Efficiency: Hop-on hop-off bus tours provide an efficient way to travel around the city while getting from the airport to your destination.