Saint Petersburg is a city rich in history, culture, and stunning architecture, with many of its most famous attractions easily accessible by the city’s efficient and affordable public transport system. Whether you’re visiting iconic landmarks such as the Hermitage Museum, Peter and Paul Fortress, or St. Isaac’s Cathedral, public transport provides an easy way to explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods and cultural sites. Here’s your guide on how to travel to Saint Petersburg’s major attractions using public transport.
1. The Hermitage Museum and Palace Square
Travel to Saint Petersburg’s Iconic Museum
The Hermitage Museum, located at Palace Square, is one of the world’s largest and most renowned museums. With its remarkable art collection housed in the Winter Palace and other historic buildings, it’s a must-see for any visitor.
What to Expect
- Metro: To reach Palace Square, take the Red Line (Metro Route 1) and get off at Admiralteyskaya station. From here, it’s a short walk to the Hermitage Museum and Palace Square.
- Bus and Trolleybus: You can also take bus Route 100 or trolleybus Route 10, which stop near Palace Square.
- Tram: The Tram Route 22 also passes by the Hermitage Museum, providing a scenic route that offers views of the Neva River and the Winter Palace.
- Insider Tip: If you’re in the mood for a relaxing journey, take Tram Route 22. It’s a great way to enjoy the Neva River views before reaching the Hermitage Museum.
2. Peter and Paul Fortress
Discover Saint Petersburg’s Historic Fortress
Located on Zayachy Island, the Peter and Paul Fortress is one of the city’s most important historical landmarks. It includes the Peter and Paul Cathedral, the burial site of Russian tsars, and museum exhibits.
What to Expect
- Metro: Take the Blue Line (Metro Route 3) to Vasileostrovskaya station. From there, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the Peter and Paul Fortress.
- Bus: You can take bus Route 47 or trolleybus Route 10, which both stop near the fortress.
- Tram: Tram Route 22 also passes close to the Peter and Paul Fortress.
- Insider Tip: Once you exit Vasileostrovskaya Metro Station, make sure to walk along the Neva River for beautiful views of the Peter and Paul Fortress from the water.
3. St. Isaac’s Cathedral
A Marvel of Russian Architecture
One of Saint Petersburg’s most famous landmarks, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, is known for its stunning neoclassical architecture, impressive dome, and breathtaking views of the city from the top.
What to Expect
- Metro: To reach St. Isaac’s Cathedral, take the Blue Line (Route 3) and get off at Sennaya Ploshchad. The cathedral is just a short walk from the station.
- Tram: You can take Tram Route 5 or Tram Route 22, which both pass by the cathedral.
- Bus: Bus Route 7 and Bus Route 191 also stop near St. Isaac’s Cathedral.
- Insider Tip: If you’re taking the tram, Tram Route 5 is a scenic option that runs along Nevsky Prospect, offering views of the city’s architecture.
4. Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood
A Stunning Landmark in the City
The Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood is known for its colorful onion domes, intricate mosaics, and rich history. It stands on the site where Emperor Alexander II was assassinated.
What to Expect
- Metro: Take the Red Line (Route 1) and get off at Nevsky Prospect station. From here, it’s a short walk to the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood.
- Tram: You can take Tram Route 22, which passes close to the church.
- Bus: Bus Route 24 and Trolleybus Route 5 also stop near the church.
- Insider Tip: After visiting the church, consider taking a stroll along the Griboedov Canal, which provides a picturesque view of the church from the water.
5. Catherine Palace in Pushkin
A Day Trip to the Imperial Summer Residence
Catherine Palace, located in Pushkin (a suburb of Saint Petersburg), is one of the most beautiful Baroque-style palaces in Russia, famous for its Amber Room and lush gardens. It’s a perfect destination for a day trip from the city center.
What to Expect
- Metro: Take the Green Line (Route 5) to Avtovo station. From here, board bus Route 200 or Route 271 to reach Catherine Palace in Pushkin. The trip takes about 40 minutes.
- Train: Alternatively, take a suburban train from Vitebsky Railway Station to Pushkin, which takes about 40 minutes. From the station, it’s a short bus ride to the palace.
- Insider Tip: If you want to enjoy a scenic ride, take the hydrofoil from Saint Petersburg to Peterhof. You’ll enjoy views of the Gulf of Finland during the journey.
6. Peterhof Palace and Gardens
Russia’s “Versailles”
The Peterhof Palace is famous for its beautiful gardens, fountains, and magnificent palace, which rival those of Versailles in France. It’s a perfect spot for a day trip from Saint Petersburg.
What to Expect
- Metro and Train: Take the Red Line (Route 1) to Avtovo station and then board a suburban train to Peterhof. The journey takes about 40 minutes.
- Hydrofoil: During the warmer months, you can take a hydrofoil from Saint Petersburg’s waterfront to Peterhof. The journey is scenic and takes about 30-40 minutes.
- Bus: You can also take bus Route 200 or Route 153 to Peterhof.
- Insider Tip: Hydrofoils are a unique and scenic way to reach Peterhof, offering a wonderful view of the Gulf of Finland along the way.
7. Kronstadt and the Naval Cathedral
A Peaceful Seaside Getaway
Kronstadt, located on Kotlin Island, is home to the Naval Cathedral, a stunning example of Russian Byzantine architecture. It’s a great destination for those seeking a quieter and more peaceful day trip.
What to Expect
- Metro: Take the Green Line (Route 5) to Avtovo station and then board a bus or suburban train to Kronstadt. The trip takes about 40 minutes from the metro station.
- Train: Alternatively, you can take a train from Baltisky Railway Station to Kronstadt, which also takes about 40 minutes.
- Insider Tip: Don’t forget to visit the Naval Cathedral and the Kronstadt Harbor, which offers a peaceful atmosphere and lovely views.
8. How to Stay on Schedule
Time Management Tips for Day Trips
To make the most of your day trip, it’s essential to stay on schedule and plan accordingly. While Saint Petersburg’s public transport system is efficient, it’s important to allow extra time for sightseeing and unexpected delays.
What to Expect
- Check Schedules: Use mobile apps like Google Maps and Yandex.Transport to check real-time public transport schedules. This will help you avoid waiting for long periods.
- Plan for Queues: Some of the popular attractions, like the Hermitage Museum and Catherine Palace, can have long lines. Be sure to arrive early to avoid the crowds and make the most of your time.
- Insider Tip: Set a realistic schedule by planning breaks and lunch stops. This way, you won’t feel rushed and can enjoy the city’s attractions without stress.
Conclusion
Saint Petersburg is a city of immense beauty and historical significance, and using its public transport system is an easy and convenient way to access the city’s major attractions and explore nearby areas. From the world-class Hermitage Museum and Peter and Paul Fortress to Catherine Palace and Peterhof, Saint Petersburg’s public transport system, including the metro, trams, trolleybuses, and hydrofoils, provides efficient connections to all the city’s iconic sites. Whether you’re venturing into the heart of the city or taking a day trip to the suburbs, public transport offers an affordable and stress-free way to experience the best of Saint Petersburg.
