Traveling from Kazan to Saint Petersburg is straightforward, with several transport options available to suit different budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for the quickest way, the most affordable, or the most scenic journey, you have several ways to travel between these two vibrant cities. Here’s a guide to the best transport options for traveling from Kazan to Saint Petersburg, including details on travel times, comfort, and cost.
1. By Train
Taking the train is one of the most popular and comfortable ways to travel from Kazan to Saint Petersburg. Russian Railways (RZD) operates several trains between the two cities, offering a variety of services, from high-speed trains to overnight sleeper options.
Why Choose the Train:
- Comfort: Russian trains, especially sleeper cars, offer a comfortable journey with the option to relax or sleep during the trip.
- Scenic Journey: The train ride provides a chance to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Russia, passing through forests, fields, and small villages.
- Convenience: Trains from Kazan to Saint Petersburg are frequent, and the service is reliable.
Types of Trains:
- Sapsan High-Speed Train: If you’re looking for speed and comfort, the Sapsan is the fastest option, covering the journey in around 8 hours. The Sapsan is a high-speed train with modern amenities like Wi-Fi, refreshments, and comfortable seating in economy, business, and first-class compartments.
- Overnight Trains: For those seeking a more affordable option or wanting to save on hotel costs, overnight trains offer sleeper cars with varying levels of comfort, including Platskartny (open compartments), Kupe (four-bed compartments), and Luxe (two-bed compartments).
Duration:
- Sapsan: Around 8 hours.
- Overnight trains: 12-14 hours depending on the train and route.
Ticket Prices:
- Sapsan: Prices for economy class range from 2,500 RUB to 7,000 RUB depending on the class and time of booking.
- Overnight trains: Prices for Platskartny range from 1,500 RUB to 3,000 RUB, Kupe from 2,500 RUB to 5,000 RUB, and Luxe from 5,000 RUB to 8,000 RUB.
Booking Tickets:
- You can book tickets online through RZD’s official website or through ticket booking platforms like Tutu.ru. Tickets are also available at train stations.
Departure and Arrival Stations:
- From Kazan: Trains depart from Kazan Railway Station.
- To Saint Petersburg: Arrive at Moskovsky Railway Station, which is centrally located in Saint Petersburg.
2. By Plane
Flying is the fastest option for getting from Kazan to Saint Petersburg, especially if you’re in a hurry and want to minimize travel time. Several airlines operate direct flights between Kazan and Saint Petersburg, with frequent departures throughout the day.
Why Choose the Plane:
- Speed: The flight is the quickest option, taking only about 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Comfort: Flights offer modern amenities, and you can relax without the long journey time associated with trains or buses.
Airlines:
- Aeroflot, S7 Airlines, and Ural Airlines all operate regular flights between Kazan International Airport and Pulkovo Airport in Saint Petersburg.
Duration:
- Flight time: About 1.5 to 2 hours.
Ticket Prices:
- Airfares vary depending on the time of booking, but typically range from 2,500 RUB to 7,000 RUB for one-way tickets. Booking in advance can help you find the best deals.
Arrival:
- Pulkovo Airport is located around 23 km from the city center of Saint Petersburg. You can reach the city center by taxi, airport shuttle, or public transport.
3. By Bus
For budget travelers, buses are a more affordable way to travel between Kazan and Saint Petersburg. Although the journey is longer than the train or flight, buses offer a cost-effective alternative.
Why Choose the Bus:
- Affordable: Buses are generally the least expensive option for traveling between Kazan and Saint Petersburg.
- Comfortable: While not as luxurious as trains or planes, buses offer reasonable comfort, especially for short-to-medium trips.
Duration:
- The bus ride typically takes 18–22 hours, depending on the route and traffic conditions.
Ticket Prices:
- One-way bus tickets range from 1,000 RUB to 2,500 RUB.
Bus Stations:
- Buses to Saint Petersburg depart from Kazan’s Central Bus Station (Tsentralny Rynok), and arrive at Saint Petersburg’s Central Bus Station or other stops within the city.
4. By Car
If you enjoy road trips or prefer the flexibility of traveling at your own pace, driving from Kazan to Saint Petersburg can be an exciting way to explore Russia.
Why Choose to Drive:
- Flexibility: Traveling by car allows you to make stops along the way, visit small towns, and explore Russia’s landscapes at your own pace.
- Comfort: You’ll have the comfort and privacy of your own vehicle, which can be more relaxing for longer journeys.
Duration:
- The drive typically takes 12–14 hours, depending on traffic and how often you stop along the way.
Route:
- The most common route is via the M10 highway, a well-maintained road that connects Kazan and Saint Petersburg.
Cost:
- The cost will depend on fuel prices and the fuel efficiency of your car. Typically, you can expect to spend around 2,000–4,000 RUB for fuel on a one-way trip.
5. By Bicycle or Motorcycle
For adventurous travelers, cycling or riding a motorcycle is an option, though it is not the most common way to travel between Kazan and Saint Petersburg. This journey will take several days, but it offers a unique and immersive way to explore the Russian countryside.
Why Choose Bicycle or Motorcycle:
- Adventure: This option is perfect for those who want to experience Russia’s landscapes up close and at a slower pace.
- Freedom: You can stop wherever you want and explore more rural areas along the route.
Duration:
- The journey can take several days to a week, depending on your pace and the number of stops you make.
Conclusion
There are several convenient ways to travel from Kazan to Saint Petersburg, each offering a different experience. For speed and comfort, flying is the quickest option, while the Sapsan high-speed train provides a fast and comfortable rail journey. If you’re looking for affordability, buses are a budget-friendly choice, and for a more adventurous trip, consider driving or traveling by bicycle. Regardless of your choice, all these options allow you to explore the beauty of Russia while traveling between two of the country’s most vibrant cities.
