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Travel Tips

Visas
Although travelling to Russia has become easier than ever, foreigners traveling to Russia still need a valid passport and a Russian visa, which must be obtained prior to arriving in the country.  Exit dates stamped on the visa must be strictly observed. We are happy to assist you with obtaining a visa, please send an e-mail for assistance.

Currency
Rouble (Rbl) = 100 kopeks.

Credit Cards
Major European and international credit and debit cards, including American Express, Visa and Diners Club, are accepted in the larger hotels and at foreign currency shops and restaurants, but cash (in Roubles) is preferred.

Tipping
Tipping is increasingly expected at restaurants. Tip around 10% depending on service.

Useful Numbers
International country code: 7
St. Petersburg Area Code: 812
Police 02
NB! Tokens are required for street pay phones, which can be purchased at newsstands, in some stores, and many kiosks.

Electricity
220V  

Health Risks
Avoid drinking tap water; bottled water is widely available. Wash all vegetables, peel fruits, and avoid uncooked food. Drink only pasteurized milk.

Time Zone
There are 11 time zones in Russia;
St. Petersburg and also Moscow are GMT +3 hours from October-March GMT +4hours April-September .

Climate
The best time to visit St. Petersburg is June-August. Temperatures during these months get up around 68 F/20 C. By far the most tourists arrive in June for the celebrated White Nights period, when it doesn't become dark until 2 am - and even then only slightly. Autumn with its cooler temperatures arrives in mid September. Snow doesn't begin falling until December. In winter the temperatures can get as low as -7 F/-25 C, and the chilly wind can make it seem a lot colder.

Clothing
Summers are mild, so take something light on you, but don't forget to carry a raincoat or umbrella for occasional showers. When going to the theatre, most Russians dress up for an evening but dress comfortably during daytime. Bring a warm coat in winter.

Government
Federation

Geography
St. Petersburg is the second biggest city in Russia, and of all the large cities in the world it is the closest to the North Pole. St. Petersburg is located in the North-West of Russia on the coast of the Gulf of Finland and occupies, together with the administratively subordinated territories, the territory of 1439 square kilometers. The city is located on 44 islands formed by the Neva River and 90 more rivers and canals which is why it is often called the Venice of North.

Population
Russia: 144.53 million
St. Petersburg: 4.2 million

Ethnic Groups
81% Russian, 4% Tatar, 3% Ukrainian and numerous ethnic minorities

Languages
Russian, English is generally well spoken among youth.

Religion
Russian Orthodox, Islam, Animist

Useful phrases:

• Zdravstvujte - Hello, formal
• Privet - Hello, informal
• Do svidanija - Good bye / see you!
• Na zdoroviye - Cheers
• Da - Yes
• Net- No
• Spasibo! - Thank you!
• Ja ljublju tebja - I love you