A long layover in St. Petersburg is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Pulkovo Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 90 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Before You Step Outside LED
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at LED:
First, verify that you can enter Russia — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Bus/Marshrutka to Moskovskaya Metro takes about 90 minutes into St. Petersburg, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — RUB is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some RUB in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Pulkovo Airport to Downtown
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus/Marshrutka to Moskovskaya Metro | ~90 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~110 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Bus/Marshrutka to Moskovskaya Metro is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in St. Petersburg, budget roughly $31 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $14 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $7 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In St. Petersburg, two standouts are:
- St. Isaac’s Cathedral — The architecture is worth seeing, even from the outside.
- Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood — A peaceful stop that offers a break from the rush of travel.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside LED, you can spend time at Pulkovo Business Lounge (International Departures) or try Duty-Free Shopping (Heinemann). Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into St. Petersburg: Teremok and Zoom Cafe. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Shokoladnitsa or Moo-Moo Burger. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
What to Do With Your Bags
You can store your luggage at Luggage storage is located on the 1st floor of the arrivals hall, near exits.. Rates typically depend on bag size and duration.
If the airport lockers are full or inconveniently located, services like Bounce and Stasher list verified storage spots in and around St. Petersburg as well.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and LED is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into St. Petersburg and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Need a Nap? Options at LED
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, LED has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in St. Petersburg with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. St. Petersburg may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.