Due to the ongoing military conflict in the Ukraine, along with sanctions and boycotts, it is not recommended to travel to Russia.
Saint Petersburg is a cultural destination known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.
How much does it cost to travel to Saint Petersburg?
You should plan to spend around $73 (₽7,151) per day on your vacation in Saint Petersburg. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $30 (₽2,955) on meals
- $6.89 (₽680) on local transportation
- $68 (₽6,696) on hotels
A one week trip to Saint Petersburg for two people costs, on average, $1,015 (₽100,114). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$508
₽50,057
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$1,015
₽100,114
-
One Month
Per person
$2,175
₽214,530
-
One Week
For a couple
$1,015
₽100,114
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$2,030
₽200,228
-
One Month
For a couple
$4,350
₽429,060
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Saint Petersburg cost?
A one week trip to Saint Petersburg usually costs around $508 (₽50,057) for one person and $1,015 (₽100,114) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Saint Petersburg on average costs around $1,015 (₽100,114) for one person and $2,030 (₽200,228) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Saint Petersburg will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Saint Petersburg on average costs around $2,175 (₽214,530) for one person and $4,350 (₽429,060) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Saint Petersburg expensive to visit?
Saint Petersburg is a smaller destination that attracts travelers with diverse styles, spending habits, and budgetary preferences. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.
Saint Petersburg can be very expensive if you want it to be, but there are ways to cut down on your costs, like looking for discounts and coupons.
On average, budget travelers spend $29 (₽2,907) per day, mid-range travelers spend $73 (₽7,151) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $171 (₽16,893) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Saint Petersburg.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Saint Petersburg is a very affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 10% of cities in Europe for its affordability. Very few cities in the region are as affordable as Saint Petersburg.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Saint Petersburg Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Saint Petersburg?
The average Saint Petersburg trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Saint Petersburg travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Saint Petersburg cost?
Saint Petersburg on a Budget
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$14
(₽1,379)
|
$34
(₽3,348)
|
$78
(₽7,654)
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$2
(₽239)
|
$7
(₽680)
|
$22
(₽2,149)
|
Food 2
|
$12
(₽1,208)
|
$30
(₽2,955)
|
$70
(₽6,874)
|
Entertainment 1
|
$7
(₽674)
|
$17
(₽1,692)
|
$43
(₽4,195)
|
Alcohol 2
|
$2-5
(₽171-512)
|
$5-14
(₽452-1,355)
|
$13-38
(₽1,257-3,772)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to be realistic about your budget for Saint Petersburg. Many assume they can visit on a shoestring, but most travelers find that to be very challenging. Think about what matters to you when traveling. Is it staying in a resort, visiting all the attractions, or dining out at nice restaurants? These factors will determine how much you spend on your trip.
What Defines a Budget Traveler?
While you might think you're a budget traveler, without giving up many of your usual comforts, you'll likely need to spend more than the $29 per day that backpackers often spend.
Backpackers often work within this tight budget by staying in hostel dorms, eating fast food or street food, using public transit, and mainly visiting free attractions.
So, are you average?
If you're a couple or a family on a fun getaway, you might want to choose a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at well-liked restaurants, and visit the key museums and attractions that come with entry fees. Most travelers to Saint Petersburg will be eager to explore the key attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Most activities are not free, after all. Therefore, it's realistic to plan on a daily budget of about $73 per person, per day.
Want to Escape the Daily Grind in Style?
If your ideal trip includes every luxury and top-tier service, be ready to budget around $171 per day. A stay at nicer hotels, meals at prestigious restaurants, fancy excursions, and getting around the destination with taxis or private drivers will cost you more.
Accommodation Budget in Saint Petersburg
Hotel prices in Saint Petersburg can vary significantly. Some hotels charge much higher rates but also offer more luxury and better amenities. During peak season, these prices rise even more. In the off-season, the average room costs around $0, while in peak season it jumps to an average of $0. Budget accommodations range from $0 to $0, but hostels are usually cheaper, especially in dorm rooms. Save money by traveling during the low or shoulder seasons, or by booking in advance and watching for deals.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Saint Petersburg for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $68 (₽6,696). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $34 (₽3,348) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Saint Petersburg? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
If you travel during the low or shoulder season (and skip ), you'll enjoy lower accommodation prices and fewer tourists.
Transportation Budget in Saint Petersburg
Saint Petersburg lacks an efficient public transit system.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $6.89 (₽680) per person, per day, on local transportation in Saint Petersburg. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Saint Petersburg is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$6.89
₽680
If you're planning to drive, ensure that your hotel offers convenient parking.
How much does it cost to go to Saint Petersburg? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Saint Petersburg will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Some typical prices for transportation in Saint Petersburg are shown below. These are actual costs from previous travelers, and are representative of the amount you'll likely spend on transportation in Saint Petersburg. Don't forget that your individual costs will vary based on how you get around, because hired cars such as taxis are often much more expensive than local public transportation.
Food Budget in Saint Petersburg
Tasting the local cuisine is a key reason for travel, so be sure to sample the unique dishes offered in the area.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Saint Petersburg can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Saint Petersburg is $30 (₽2,955) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$30
₽2,955
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Saint Petersburg is around $30 (₽2955) per person, with previous travelers spending from $12 to $70. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Saint Petersburg are as follows:
- Breakfast: $3 to $9
- Lunch: $4 to $12
- Dinner: $9 to $21
- Coffee: $2
- Fast Food or Street Food: $4
Food in Saint Petersburg is generally expensive, but there are some cheaper options available. If your accommodation has a kitchen, you could also pick up some groceries and save money by preparing your own meals. One local specialty that you should definitely try is the hot Russian crepes with any of a number of toppings including caviar, mushrooms, caramel, or berries. They are typically served with a cup of tea. If you're in town during the winter, then this is particularly good.
Budget restaurant options include cafes that serve pirogies, or Russian style dumplings, several fast food chains, and sandwich cafes that are usually open at lunch. Affordable local chains include Chainaya Lozhka, Yolki-Palki Traktir, Kroshka Kartoshka, and Teremok, among others.
Many hotels provide breakfast at no additional cost, while others charge extra. The quality and price can vary widely from hotel to hotel. Knowing this ahead of time can help you decide if you should budget more. You might find the hotel's buffet is a worthwhile investment, or perhaps a nearby bakery or cafe could be a cheaper alternative.
Instead of constantly buying drinks, bring along a water bottle. It's also great for the planet.
Thinking about a tour? Check which meals are included beforehand. You might need to budget for some meals on your own, which can add to your expenses.
Below are some standard food costs in Saint Petersburg, gathered from real travelers. These prices should give you a general idea of what you can expect to spend on dining and meals. Keep in mind, though, that your own costs may differ depending on your taste in restaurants, travel habits, and menu choices.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Saint Petersburg
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Saint Petersburg typically cost an average of $17 (₽1,692) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$17
₽1,692
While some of the best experiences in Saint Petersburg involve simply getting lost in the city, there are some true highlights that you shouldn't miss. Definitely make a point of visiting the Hermitage Museum, with its many fascinating items and stories. There is also the Russian Museum, the Peter and Paul Fortress, and the Admiralty which is not open to visitors, but worth viewing from the outside none the less. Also make a point of heading to the astern end of Nevskiy Prospekt next to the River Neva to visit Alexander Nevskiy Monastery. Here you will find Tikhvin Cemetery, which has tombs for some of the world's greatest composers. If you want to see a traditional Russian style church head to the Church of the Saviour on Spilled Blood. It was built on the spot where Tsar Alexander II was assassinated in 1881 and inside you will find some elaborate and impressive mosaics. For more information and details on all of this, check out these travel tips for Saint Petersburg.
There are countless activities and festivals you can enjoy around St. Petersburg. Of particular interest are the opera or ballet. Russia is famous for these arts and the Mariinsky Theater has world class performances regularly. Other options include Mikhailovskiy Theater, St. Petersburg Opera, and the Conservatory Theater. Also look into other music concerts and films while you're in town.
Popular festivals in the city include the White Nights in June, NAVI day in July and New Years, which is the largest holiday in Russia. You can expect large crowds and lots of celebrations at this time of year.
St. Petersburg is also a popular destinations for cruises, especially river cruises. If this is your plan, check out this Viking River Cruises packing list and tips to make sure that you are prepared for your trip.
Nightlife Budget in Saint Petersburg
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $9.16 (₽904) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Saint Petersburg per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$9.16
₽904
Nightlife is a blast when traveling, but scaling back on drinks can really help stretch your travel budget.
Travel cost data last updated: Dec 25, 2024
Budgeting and Travel Tips for Saint Petersburg
- Prices usually spike during peak season in , and the destination tends to be quite busy. To save some cash and steer clear of the crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder or low seasons instead.
- Opting for a slower travel pace can help you keep your budget in check while enjoying the scenic beauty. If you overbook your days with activities, you'll find yourself spending more. But taking your time often results in lower costs and a more fulfilling experience.
Budgeting Challenges
- Saint Petersburg doesn't offer many public transportation choices. It might be a good idea to rent a car or arrange for transportation ahead of time, like booking a tour. Just keep in mind that this could affect your budget in other areas.
- Saint Petersburg isn't known for its hostels, so if you're banking on finding a cheap dorm, it might be time to adjust your travel plans. A budget hotel or apartment rental could work better for you.
Traveling in Saint Petersburg
St. Petersburg, Russia
Saint Petersburg is a beautiful city that sits on the eastern edge of the Baltic Sea. Its historical city center is threaded with canals and architecturally impressive buildings, leaving little doubt as to why this city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the second largest city in Russia, but perhaps a favorite among travelers. The metropolitan area has a population of over 5 million as well as an impressive culture with fascinating museums, restaurants, and architecture. The city has no shortage of sights and attractions, and many days can be passed while you wander its intricate streets.
St. Petersburg has a humid continental climate. It can snow as late as April or even May and it is not uncommon to see sludge that lingers from the melted snow. June is the peak of the tourist season because it is famous for the White Nights when the sun sets for only a short period of time and the streets stay active throughout the night. During the latter part of the month there are performances, concerts, and festivals. The weather is warmest between the months of July and early September. Rain is not uncommon during this time. Winters are cold, but the advantage is that there are almost no tourists during these months. The snow can be beautiful but the temperatures often drop to -25 degrees Celsius with a cold wind chill.
Neighborhoods & Around
At the historical heart of St. Petersburg is Palace Square. Other neighborhoods of interest for tourists in St. Petersburg include Nevsky Prospekt, the Square of the Arts and the Summer Gardens, the Taurida Gardens, the area referred to as "North of Nevsky" and "South of Nevsky", Vasilevsky Island and New Holland.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
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1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.