Saint Petersburg’s Pulkovo Airport is the city’s main international gateway, located about 20 kilometers (12 miles) south of the city center. While taxis and private transfers are available, public transport offers a more affordable and convenient option for getting from the airport to the city. Whether you’re on a budget or simply prefer the ease of public transportation, there are several methods to reach the city center quickly and efficiently.
Here’s everything you need to know about using public transport to get from Pulkovo Airport to the heart of Saint Petersburg.
1. By Metro (Most Convenient and Popular Option)
The metro is one of the quickest and most cost-effective ways to get from Pulkovo Airport to the city center, and it is particularly recommended for tourists who want to avoid traffic or expensive taxis.
How to Use the Metro:
- Bus Connection to the Metro: The metro does not directly connect to Pulkovo Airport. However, you can take bus 39 from the airport to Moskovskaya Metro Station, which is on the Blue Line (Line 2) of the metro.
- Metro Ride: Once you reach Moskovskaya Station, you can purchase a ticket and take the metro to city center stations like Nevsky Prospect or Admiralteyskaya, depending on your final destination. The metro ride takes around 20-25 minutes from Moskovskaya to Nevsky Prospect.
Benefits:
- Cost-Effective: The fare for the bus and metro combined is relatively cheap, especially if you purchase a single-ride ticket or use a travel card.
- Quick: The metro is the fastest option during rush hours, avoiding the heavy traffic that can affect taxis and buses.
- Frequency: Metro trains run frequently, and buses from the airport to the metro station are also regular, with a wait time of around 10-15 minutes.
Tips:
- Travel Pass: If you plan to use public transport frequently during your stay, consider purchasing a Podorozhnik card for easy access to buses and the metro.
- Look for Bus Stops: The bus stop for bus 39 is located right outside the Pulkovo Airport terminal. Be sure to follow the signs to find the correct stop.
2. By Public Bus (Affordable, But Takes Longer)
If you’re looking for an even more affordable option, public buses operate regularly from Pulkovo Airport to various points in the city. While it is the least expensive option, it can take longer than the metro, especially during rush hours.
How to Use the Bus:
- Bus 39: Bus 39 is the primary public transport connection from the airport to the city center. It travels between Pulkovo Airport and Moskovskaya Metro Station, from where you can connect to the metro.
- Other Bus Routes: Depending on where you’re headed in the city, you can transfer to other buses at key transport hubs, including Moskovskaya or Kupchino stations. This option is best if you’re staying further out from the central metro lines.
Benefits:
- Very Cheap: Bus tickets are affordable and significantly cheaper than taxis or private transfers.
- Convenient Stops: Buses connect key points of the city, and you can transfer to other routes or metro lines to reach your final destination.
Tips:
- Journey Time: Bus journeys can take 30-45 minutes to the city center depending on traffic. It’s a good idea to leave some extra time if you’re catching a specific event or appointment.
- Buses Run Regularly: Bus 39 runs regularly every 10-15 minutes from Pulkovo Airport and operates until late in the evening.
3. By Marshrutka (Minibus)
For those looking for an option that’s faster than the regular buses but still affordable, the marshrutka (minibus) could be a good choice. Marshrutkas are small minibuses that offer shared transport and are a popular mode of public transport in Saint Petersburg.
How to Use the Marshrutka:
- Routes: Marshrutkas K39 and K213 run from Pulkovo Airport to various central areas. You can board one of these minibuses at the designated stops outside the terminal.
- Stops: These minibuses typically have several stops along the way and may drop you off at various central locations, such as Nevsky Prospect or Palace Square.
Benefits:
- Direct Routes: Marshrutkas usually travel directly to central locations, offering a faster ride compared to regular buses.
- Affordable: While more expensive than regular buses, marshrutkas are still much cheaper than taxis or private transport.
Tips:
- Faster Than Buses: Marshrutkas are generally faster than regular buses due to fewer stops and less congestion on the road.
- Watch for Available Space: Since marshrutkas are shared rides, they can sometimes be crowded, especially during busy times. Be prepared for a potentially tight fit during peak hours.
4. By Taxi (Convenient but More Expensive)
If you have a lot of luggage, prefer a door-to-door service, or don’t want to navigate public transport, taking a taxi is the most direct but more expensive option. Taxis are readily available at Pulkovo Airport.
How to Use Taxis:
- Official Taxi Stand: To avoid unlicensed taxis, head to the official taxi stand located just outside the terminal building. The airport has a dedicated taxi service, and you can book your ride directly at the stand.
- Pre-booking: Alternatively, you can pre-book a taxi or use ride-hailing apps like Yandex.Taxi or Gett.
Benefits:
- Convenient and Comfortable: A taxi offers a direct, comfortable, and private ride to your destination.
- No Need for Transfers: Taxis take you directly from Pulkovo Airport to your accommodation, saving you time and effort.
Tips:
- Official Rates: Make sure to use an official taxi service to avoid overpaying. Official taxis have meters or fixed rates.
- Avoid Cash-Only Taxis: Most taxis accept credit cards, but be sure to confirm this with the driver before the ride.
5. By Aeroexpress (Direct Airport Shuttle)
The Aeroexpress is a shuttle service that runs between Pulkovo Airport and the Moskovsky Railway Station in the city center. It offers a more direct route than buses and is convenient for those heading towards the central train station.
How to Use Aeroexpress:
- Service Route: The Aeroexpress operates from Pulkovo Airport to Moskovsky Railway Station, taking around 45 minutes. It’s a good option if you need to catch a train or want to get to the city center quickly without switching transport modes.
Benefits:
- Direct and Comfortable: The shuttle service is direct, comfortable, and relatively fast.
- Affordable: It offers a middle-ground option between taxis and public transport in terms of price.
Tips:
- Check the Schedule: Be sure to check the Aeroexpress schedule in advance, as it operates at specific times and may not be as frequent as other forms of transport.
Conclusion
There are many convenient options for getting from Pulkovo Airport to the city center in Saint Petersburg using public transport. For those looking for affordable options, the bus or marshrutka offer great value, while the metro provides a quick and efficient way to reach key attractions. If you prefer a more comfortable and direct experience, taxis and Aeroexpress shuttles are also available. By understanding the various public transport options, you can choose the best method based on your budget, time constraints, and preferences for a smooth journey into Saint Petersburg’s vibrant city center.
