Saint Petersburg’s public transport system is an excellent way for families to get around the city, offering affordable, reliable, and convenient options. Whether you’re traveling with young children, elderly family members, or strollers, there are several features of the city’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses that cater to families’ needs. In this guide, we’ll explore what you need to know to use public transport in Saint Petersburg effectively and comfortably with your family.
1. Metro: Fast and Family-Friendly
The metro is one of the fastest and most efficient ways to travel around Saint Petersburg. With several lines and numerous stations, it provides easy access to major tourist spots and neighborhoods.
How the Metro is Family-Friendly:
- Elevators and Escalators: Many metro stations, especially those in the central areas, are equipped with elevators and escalators for easy access, making it easier to travel with strollers or for elderly family members.
- Wide Doors and Spacious Cars: Metro cars have relatively wide doors, allowing easy access for families with strollers or wheelchairs. Inside the trains, there’s also plenty of space to move around.
- Child-Friendly Seats: Some metro cars have dedicated child-friendly seats where your child can sit comfortably.
- Clear Signage: Most metro stations have signs in both Russian and English, which helps families unfamiliar with the language navigate easily.
Tips for Families Using the Metro:
- Avoid Rush Hour: The metro can get crowded during rush hour (from 8 am to 9 am and 5 pm to 7 pm), so try to travel during the mid-morning or afternoon to avoid the crowd.
- Use Family Tickets: Many metro stations offer family tickets or discounted fares for children under 7. Children aged 7 to 18 may receive a reduced fare, while children under 7 usually travel for free.
2. Buses and Trolleybuses: Convenient and Scenic
Saint Petersburg’s buses and trolleybuses are another convenient and budget-friendly option for families. These vehicles offer a more scenic ride compared to the metro, allowing you to see the streets and neighborhoods while traveling between attractions.
How Buses and Trolleybuses are Family-Friendly:
- Wheelchair and Stroller Access: Many of the city’s buses and trolleybuses are low-floor, meaning they are equipped with ramps for easier access for wheelchairs and strollers.
- Shorter Travel Times: Buses and trolleybuses are a good option for families traveling to nearby attractions, especially if you want to avoid the more crowded metro lines.
- Scenic Routes: The bus and trolleybus routes pass by some of the city’s landmarks, so your family can enjoy the sights as you travel. For example, buses 24 and 39 travel through areas with beautiful views of the Neva River, Peter and Paul Fortress, and Palace Square.
Tips for Families Using Buses and Trolleybuses:
- Look for the Accessible Buses: If you need a low-floor bus for easier access, look for routes that specifically advertise accessibility features. You can also ask the driver for assistance if needed.
- Keep the Kids Entertained: While traveling on longer bus rides, bring some snacks or games to keep your children entertained.
3. Trams: A Comfortable Way to Explore
Trams offer a relaxing, comfortable ride through some of Saint Petersburg’s most scenic areas. While not as fast as the metro, trams are an excellent choice for families looking to travel short distances or see the city at a leisurely pace.
How Trams are Family-Friendly:
- Spacious and Comfortable: Trams in Saint Petersburg tend to be spacious, and they usually offer ample seating, making them a comfortable choice for families.
- Easy to Board: Many trams have low-floor designs, which makes boarding easier with a stroller or for family members with mobility issues.
- Shorter Waiting Times: Trams are generally available every 10-15 minutes, so you won’t need to wait long to hop on.
Tips for Families Using Trams:
- Choose the Right Routes: Some tram routes, like Route 7, provide access to popular tourist areas, including Vasilievsky Island and Palace Square, so these are great options if you want to explore the city in a more scenic way.
- Be Mindful of Rush Hour: Like buses and metro, trams can also get crowded during rush hour, so try to travel outside of those times for a more comfortable ride.
4. Planning Your Day of Sightseeing with Public Transport
Using public transport for a full day of sightseeing in Saint Petersburg is incredibly easy, thanks to the city’s integrated transport system. Here’s how you can plan your day to make the most of it.
Start with the Metro:
- Begin Your Journey at Nevsky Prospect: From here, you can easily access popular destinations like the Hermitage Museum, Winter Palace, Palace Square, and Kazansky Cathedral. These attractions are all close to Nevsky Prospect Station (Red Line) and Admiralteyskaya Station (Purple Line), which are well-connected to other areas by metro.
Hop on a Bus or Trolleybus for Scenic Routes:
- After visiting central attractions, take a bus or trolleybus for a more scenic route to explore other parts of the city, like Vasilievsky Island or the Peter and Paul Fortress. These routes allow you to experience the city’s architectural beauty while traveling in comfort.
Consider a Tram Ride for Leisurely Exploration:
- Trams are perfect for a leisurely exploration, especially if you’re looking to enjoy the city’s sights at a slower pace. Try Tram Route 10 to explore Vasilievsky Island or Route 24 to see some of the lesser-explored parts of the city.
Family-Friendly Attractions to Consider:
- Catherine Palace in Pushkin: You can take Bus Route 22 or Tram Route 7 to travel to Pushkin, where the grand Catherine Palace and the Amber Room await.
- Peter and Paul Fortress: Easily accessible by metro, bus, and tram, this iconic fortress offers a glimpse into Saint Petersburg’s royal past.
5. Other Family-Friendly Features to Keep in Mind
Free Travel for Children:
- Children under 7 years old usually travel for free on all forms of public transport in Saint Petersburg. This can make it much more affordable for families with young children.
- Children 7 to 18 years old often receive a discounted fare on metro, bus, and tram rides.
Public Transport Apps:
- Google Maps and local apps like Yandex.Metro are great tools to help plan your routes and check live schedules. With a little preparation, you can make your journey as efficient as possible.
Safe and Secure Travel:
- Saint Petersburg’s public transport system is generally safe and family-friendly, but as with any large city, it’s wise to be aware of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
Family-Friendly Accessibility:
- Public transport in Saint Petersburg is becoming more accessible to families with strollers, wheelchairs, and elderly passengers. Many stations are equipped with elevators, and buses and trams are designed with low-floor access.
Conclusion
Saint Petersburg’s public transport system is a great way for families to explore the city. With affordable fares, easy access to major attractions, and family-friendly features like stroller access and discounted fares for children, using the metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses will make your sightseeing experience much easier and more enjoyable. Plan your day around the transport routes, take advantage of family discounts, and you’ll have a smooth and memorable visit to Saint Petersburg with your loved ones.
