The Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood is one of the most iconic landmarks in Saint Petersburg, known for its colorful onion domes, intricate mosaics, and its rich history. Located in the heart of the city, this Russian Orthodox church is a must-see for anyone visiting Saint Petersburg. The public transport system in the city provides an easy and convenient way to reach the church, allowing tourists to enjoy the city’s sights as they travel. Here’s how you can use Saint Petersburg’s public transport to visit the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood and make the most of your sightseeing journey.
1. Getting to the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood
The Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood is located on Griboedov Canal, just a short walk from Nevsky Prospect and other major tourist destinations. Public transport in Saint Petersburg offers multiple ways to get there, whether by metro, bus, or tram. Below are the best routes to take.
By Metro (Fast and Convenient)
The metro is one of the most efficient ways to travel around Saint Petersburg, especially if you’re looking to get to the church quickly and avoid street traffic. The closest metro station to the church is Nevsky Prospect Station, which is just a short walk away.
- Metro Line: Take the Red Line (Line 1) to Nevsky Prospect Station. This is one of the most central metro stations in Saint Petersburg, so it’s easy to get to from most tourist areas.
- Walk to the Church: After you exit the metro, it’s about a 5-minute walk to the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood. Simply walk along Nevsky Prospect, then turn onto Griboedov Canal, where the church is located.
Tips for Metro Travel:
- Avoid Rush Hours: If possible, travel outside the morning or evening rush hours (8:00 am – 9:00 am and 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm) to avoid crowded trains.
- Look for Signage in English: Most metro stations in Saint Petersburg have signs in English as well as Russian, making it easier for tourists to navigate.
- Buy a Travel Card: If you plan on using public transport frequently, consider purchasing a Podorozhnik card or a single-ride ticket for convenience.
By Bus (Scenic and Accessible)
Buses are another great option, especially if you enjoy seeing the city’s streets and neighborhoods while on the way to the church. Several bus routes pass close to the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood.
- Bus Routes: Look for Bus Route 7, which travels through central Saint Petersburg and stops near the church.
- Bus Stops: The closest bus stop is Griboedov Canal, where you can disembark and take a short walk to the church. If you’re coming from Nevsky Prospect, simply look for the bus at the Nevsky Prospect stop.
Tips for Bus Travel:
- Scenic Routes: Taking the bus gives you a chance to enjoy a more scenic view of the city as you pass by iconic streets and historic buildings.
- Ticketing: You can purchase tickets from ticket machines, kiosks, or directly from the bus driver. The Podorozhnik card can also be used for buses.
By Tram (Relaxed and Scenic)
Trams are a slower but enjoyable way to explore the city’s neighborhoods, offering a more relaxed ride with views of Saint Petersburg’s beautiful streets.
- Tram Route 10: This tram passes through Vasilievsky Island and into the central part of Saint Petersburg, including a stop near Griboedov Canal. You can hop off at Nevsky Prospect and walk to the church.
- Tram Route 24: Another option is Tram Route 24, which travels from the southern parts of the city to Nevsky Prospect, passing by some key landmarks. It’s a great option if you’re coming from areas like Vasilievsky Island.
Tips for Tram Travel:
- Slower Pace: Trams are less crowded than buses and offer a more relaxed way to see the city.
- Route Information: Make sure to check tram schedules and routes ahead of time, as they may be subject to changes or delays, especially during festivals or busy periods.
By Walking (For a Scenic Stroll)
If you’re already in the city center, the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood is within walking distance of several major attractions, including Nevsky Prospect, Palace Square, and the Hermitage Museum.
- Walk from Nevsky Prospect: If you’re staying near Nevsky Prospect, you can take a leisurely 10-minute walk to the church. Enjoy the architecture of Saint Petersburg as you make your way down Nevsky Prospect, then turn onto Griboedov Canal.
Tips for Walking:
- Enjoy the Views: Take your time walking through Nevsky Prospect and along Griboedov Canal, as both areas are full of historic buildings, shops, and cafes.
- Pedestrian-Friendly: The streets near the church are pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot and stop at nearby attractions.
2. Tickets and Payment Options
Using public transport to visit the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood is not only efficient but also affordable. Here are the key ticketing options for public transport:
Metro Tickets:
- Single-Ride Ticket: You can purchase a single-ride ticket for the metro, which is perfect if you’re only using it for a short trip to the church. Tickets can be bought at ticket machines or kiosks.
- Travel Card: If you plan on using the metro multiple times, consider purchasing a Podorozhnik card, which can be loaded with credit and used for all public transport, including the metro and buses.
Bus and Tram Tickets:
- Single-Ride Ticket: Bus and tram tickets are available from ticket machines, kiosks, or onboard with the driver. The Podorozhnik card can also be used for buses and trams.
Tips for Tickets:
- Have Exact Change: While metro tickets are easy to purchase, buses and trams may require exact change. It’s a good idea to have some small coins or cash on hand.
- Use Contactless Payment: Some metro stations and buses accept contactless payments via credit cards or smartphone apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay.
3. When to Visit the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood
The Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood is one of the busiest tourist attractions in Saint Petersburg, especially during peak seasons like summer and during major events like the White Nights Festival.
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning or Late Afternoon: To avoid the crowds, try to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon. This will give you the chance to explore the church in a more peaceful environment before or after the peak hours.
- Weekdays: Weekdays tend to be quieter than weekends, so if possible, plan your visit during the week for a more relaxed experience.
Additional Tip:
- Plan for Festivals and Events: During the White Nights Festival or other events, the church and surrounding areas may be more crowded. Be sure to plan extra time for travel and check for any public transport route changes.
Conclusion
Visiting the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood is one of the highlights of a trip to Saint Petersburg, and the city’s public transport system makes it easy and convenient to get there. Whether you’re using the metro, buses, trams, or walking, you’ll find plenty of ways to reach the church from various parts of the city. By planning your route in advance and knowing your transport options, you can enjoy the city’s iconic sights and make the most of your visit to this breathtaking landmark.
