St Petersburg

The Northernmost City of the World

St Petersburg is the northernmost major city of the World and because of its position below the Artic Circle causes twilight to last all night in May, June and July. This famous occurrence is known as the "white nights". The white nights are directly correlated to another attraction — the eight drawbridges that cross the Neva River. Visitors gather to see the bridges drawn and lowered again at night to let shipping pass up and down the river. Bridges open from May to late October according to a particular timetable which is usually between 2am and 4.30am.

The city is situated on the delta of the Neva River at the east end of the Gulf of Finland on the Baltic Sea. The Neva River is the city's main waterway, whose name originates from the olden name of Lake Ladoga, where the Neva starts. The river is 74km in length, of which 32km flows within the city boundaries.

St Petersburg was founded in May 1703 by Tsar Peter the Great; it was the capital of the Russian Empire for over 200 years. Following the Russian Revolution of 1917, the capital was moved to Moscow; consequently, the city ceased being the capital. St Petersburg is Russia's second largest city and enjoys a lively, international ambience with some of the most striking architecture in Europe.

St Petersburg has a mild climate, although it can be erratic. The warmest time of year is usually from June to August, and temperatures average around 20˚ C, though occasionally they can reach higher. Winters are cold, with freezing winds and snow, with temperatures averaging around -8°C to -12°C in January and February (the coldest months) and at times plummeting lower.

The public transport system in St Petersburg is fairly extensive but somewhat strained, and most public transport is not that easy to use. The Metro is a dependable and cheap method of transportation for longer journeys and in the downtown locale. For shorter journeys, trams, buses, trolleybuses and taxis are available. Car rental with or without a driver is another option.

The airport is the Pulkovo II International Airport and it is located around 17km south of St Petersburg, on the site of the former 1950s Leningrad Airport; it was renovated during the 1980s.

There are a number of Western airlines in addition to Aeroflot that fly straight to St Petersburg from the major cities of Europe and North America.

Visas are required to enter Russia; tourist visas are valid for 30 days. For peak time visits, ensure that you apply for your visa well in advance of your trip. You have to register your visa within three working days of arrival in Russia with the local branch of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.  Generally, major hotels will do this routinely, but if you are staying in private accommodation, the owner of the property must do this for you. If your visit is for less than three days you do not need to register a visa.

You should declare all foreign currency at customs on arrival, in addition any gold jewellery, video cameras, laptop computers or mobile phones, and you will be requested to do the same when you leave.

Always carry identification with you, i.e. photocopies of your passport and visa (proving that they have been registered). Random checks by the police are frequent, although more usually on men. Furthermore, passport and visa details are required to exchange currency, purchase train tickets, book hotel rooms etc.

There have been instances where bogus police officers have searched unsuspecting visitors who in turn find they have been effectively mugged. The police are only allowed to search you at the police station.

Exercise caution against pick pocket opportunists as you would in any busy large city. Be especially aware of Gypsies and their children who can be extremely cunning in their methods of stealing.

Make sure that you are up to date with vaccinations against Diphtheria, Polio and Tetanus. Food and waterborne diseases are more prevalent in Russia, so Typhoid and Hepatitis A are recommended. If you take any prescribed medication, take sufficient supplies for the duration of your trip. It would be prudent to take some anti-diarrhoea medication, also only drink bottled water.

Accommodation in St Petersburg ranges from budget (Hostel) up to luxury hotels. The peak season is from May to September so prices will be more expensive. Prices are lower during spring 1^st April - 15^th May and autumn (fall) 1^st September – 31^st October. The winter season is the most economical, albeit cold and snowy but accommodation is plentiful.

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