St. Petersburg-travel-tips
Key Travel & Cultural Etiquette Tips for Tourists in St. Petersburg:
Getting Around:
- Metro: The metro is efficient and affordable. Purchase a “podorozhny” card from kiosks in stations. Remember to validate your card at the entrance gates.
- Buses/Trolleybuses: These are widely available but routes can be complex. Consider using a navigation app for assistance.
- Taxis: Use reputable services like Yandex Taxi or Gett, which offer transparent pricing and GPS tracking. Be wary of unlicensed taxis.
Cultural Etiquette:
-
Greetings: A handshake is customary when meeting someone new. Close friends and family may kiss on the cheek.
-
Dress Code: While St. Petersburg is generally cosmopolitan, dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites (shoulders and knees covered).
-
Language: While English is spoken in tourist areas, learning basic Russian phrases like “hello” (Здравствуйте -Zdravstvuyte), “thank you” (Спасибо - Spasibo) and “please” (Пожалуйста - Pozhaluysta) will be greatly appreciated.
-
Dining: It’s customary to wait for everyone to be served before starting your meal. Don’t leave your fork on the plate; place it beside the knife when finished.
-
Photography: Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in religious settings.
Tips for a Smooth Trip:
-
Visa Requirements: Check visa requirements well in advance of your trip. Most nationalities require a tourist visa to enter Russia.
-
Currency: The Russian Ruble (RUB) is the official currency. Credit cards are accepted in many establishments but carrying some cash is recommended, especially for smaller vendors and markets.
-
Weather: St. Petersburg experiences four distinct seasons. Pack accordingly for the time of year you’ll be visiting.
-
Safety: St. Petersburg is generally safe for tourists, but be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure. Avoid walking alone in deserted areas at night.
Enjoy your visit to St. Petersburg!