How to Buy Metro Tickets in Saint Petersburg: A Tourist’s Guide - Wander Russia 2025 Guide

Saint Petersburg’s metro system is an efficient and affordable way to explore the city, and as a tourist, knowing how to navigate and buy tickets will help you make the most of your time. The metro network covers a wide area, connecting major attractions, museums, and districts of the city. Here’s a practical guide on how to buy metro tickets in Saint Petersburg and get around with ease.

1. Types of Metro Tickets in Saint Petersburg

There are several types of tickets and travel cards available, depending on how long you plan to stay and how often you plan to use the metro.

1.1 Single-ride Ticket

• Description: This is a one-way ticket that allows you to travel between any stations on the metro network for a single trip.
• Price: The cost of a single ride is affordable, and the fare is the same regardless of how far you travel within the metro system.

1.2 Troika Card (Rechargeable Card)

• Description: The Troika card is a rechargeable smart card that can be used for multiple trips on the metro, buses, and trams. It is perfect for tourists who plan to stay for a few days and use public transport frequently.
• Price: There is a deposit for the card, and you can load it with credit to pay for your rides. The card can be topped up at any metro station or at kiosks.

1.3 10-Ride Ticket

• Description: This ticket offers ten rides on the metro, making it a good choice if you plan to use the metro multiple times during your stay.
• Price: The 10-ride ticket offers a slight discount compared to buying single tickets for each ride.

1.4 Unlimited Travel Passes

• Description: For longer stays or tourists who plan to explore the city extensively, you can buy unlimited travel passes, such as a 3-day, 7-day, or even a 30-day pass.
• Price: The longer the pass, the more economical it becomes for regular metro users.

2. Where to Buy Metro Tickets

There are several ways to buy metro tickets in Saint Petersburg:

2.1 Ticket Machines at Metro Stations

• Location: These are available at all metro stations.
• How it Works: The ticket machines have an easy-to-use interface, and you can choose your ticket type (single ride, Troika card, 10-ride ticket, etc.). Many machines have instructions in English, making them tourist-friendly.
• Payment Options: You can pay with cash (rubles) or card (for Troika cards and multi-ride tickets). The machines accept bank cards for contactless payment.

2.2 Kiosks at Metro Stations

• Location: Small kiosks are located at metro entrances or in the vestibules of many stations.
• How it Works: The kiosks sell all types of tickets, including single tickets and Troika cards. The staff will assist you in selecting the ticket you need.
• Payment Options: Cash or card payments are accepted.

2.3 Online and Mobile Apps

• Description: Some services in Saint Petersburg allow you to buy tickets via mobile apps, such as the official metro app or other third-party services. This is convenient if you want to buy tickets in advance or avoid queues.
• How it Works: Download the app, select the type of ticket you want, and make your payment through the app. You will receive a QR code or a digital ticket that can be scanned at the metro station.

3. How to Use Your Ticket

3.1 Using Single-ride Tickets

• How it Works: For a single ride, simply purchase your ticket at the machine or kiosk. When you enter the metro station, there will be turnstiles with a slot where you need to insert your ticket. Once inserted, the turnstile will open, and you can pass through.

3.2 Using the Troika Card

• How it Works: If you’re using the Troika card, you’ll need to tap the card on the electronic reader at the entrance to the metro station. The system will deduct the appropriate fare from the balance on your card. It’s essential to tap the card when both entering and exiting the metro system.
• Top-up: If your Troika card balance is low, you can top it up at any ticket machine or kiosk in the metro stations.

3.3 Using the 10-Ride Ticket

• How it Works: The 10-ride ticket works similarly to a single ride ticket. You insert the ticket into the turnstile at the entrance. Each ride will be deducted from the 10 rides available on the ticket.

3.4 Unlimited Travel Passes

• How it Works: For unlimited travel passes, simply tap your Troika card or the digital ticket at the turnstile when entering and exiting. The system will recognize the pass and let you enter without deducting any fare.

4. Metro Travel Tips

4.1 Best Time to Use the Metro

• The metro system is a fast and efficient way to get around the city, but it can get crowded during peak hours (8:00-9:30 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM). If possible, try to travel during off-peak hours for a more comfortable journey.

4.2 Metro Stations with Historical Significance

• Saint Petersburg’s metro stations are beautiful, many of which have elaborate designs and rich histories. Stations like Kirovsky Zavod and Ploshchad Vosstaniya offer stunning Soviet-era architecture, while stations like Avtovo feature grand chandeliers and marble floors.

4.3 Transfers Between Metro Lines

• The metro system consists of several lines, and you can transfer between lines without paying an additional fare. Just be sure to keep your ticket or Troika card to pass through the turnstiles at the next line.

4.4 Lost Tickets and Refunds

• If you lose your Troika card or ticket, you can go to the customer service desk at most metro stations for assistance. However, refunds are usually not available for single tickets or multi-ride tickets once they have been used.

Conclusion

Buying metro tickets in Saint Petersburg is easy and convenient, with several options available for tourists. Whether you choose a single ride ticket, a rechargeable Troika card, or an unlimited travel pass, you’ll be able to navigate the city’s extensive metro system with ease. The metro is an excellent and affordable way to explore Saint Petersburg, allowing you to visit landmarks, museums, and neighborhoods quickly and efficiently. By following this guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in the city and enjoy your travels with ease.