Saint Petersburg is a beautiful and family-friendly city, offering a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. If you’re traveling with kids, navigating the city using public transport is both convenient and affordable. Saint Petersburg’s public transport system—comprising the metro, buses, trams, trolleybuses, and water transport—is well-equipped to accommodate families. This guide will help you navigate Saint Petersburg by public transport with kids, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for the whole family.
1. Metro Travel with Kids
The metro is one of the quickest and most efficient ways to travel around Saint Petersburg, and it’s generally safe and comfortable for families with children.
What to Expect:
- Accessibility: Most metro stations have elevators and escalators, making it easier to travel with strollers or younger children. However, some older stations might not have elevators, so it’s good to check in advance if you’re traveling with a stroller.
- Ticket Fares: Children under 7 travel for free. Children aged 7-14 can get a discounted ticket (around 50 rubles per ride) when traveling with a parent.
- Space for Strollers: The metro can get crowded during rush hours, but there are usually designated areas near the doors where you can park your stroller. Be mindful of peak hours to avoid a stressful experience for both you and your kids.
Insider Tip:
When traveling with kids during peak hours, try to use less busy stations or avoid traveling between 8 AM to 10 AM and 5 PM to 7 PM, when the metro is most crowded.
2. Bus and Trolleybus Travel with Kids
Buses and trolleybuses are a great option for families with children, offering flexibility and wide coverage of Saint Petersburg. They are particularly useful for reaching neighborhoods or attractions that are not directly connected to the metro.
What to Expect:
- Family-Friendly Travel: Buses and trolleybuses have spacious interiors, with seats available for families. On most buses, there are no specific designated stroller areas, so it’s best to fold your stroller when boarding.
- Ticket Fares: Just like the metro, children under 7 travel for free. Kids aged 7-14 can get a discounted fare with a Podorozhnik card (around 50 rubles per ride).
- Travel Time: While buses and trolleybuses offer scenic routes, they can be slower due to traffic, especially during rush hours. Be prepared for possible delays.
Insider Tip:
When traveling on buses or trolleybuses, seat priority for parents with children is not always guaranteed, so it’s a good idea to stand near the front if you’re carrying a stroller.
3. Trams with Kids
Saint Petersburg’s tram system is another great option for families. Trams are generally more relaxed and allow for a slower ride, perfect for sightseeing with children.
What to Expect:
- Open-Air Experience: Many of the historic trams are open-air, which can be a fun experience for kids. You’ll pass by some of the city’s most beautiful streets and canals.
- Ticket Fares: Children under 7 travel for free, and those aged 7-14 are eligible for discounted tickets.
- Space for Strollers: While trams can be busy, there’s typically enough space for a stroller near the door area. However, older trams may have fewer designated spaces for strollers.
Insider Tip:
Trams are usually less crowded than buses or the metro, making them a great choice for a relaxed sightseeing experience with kids.
4. Water Transport with Kids
Given Saint Petersburg’s network of canals and the Neva River, water transport is a unique and fun way to explore the city. During the summer months, waterbuses and ferries operate, offering a scenic experience for families.
What to Expect:
- Beautiful Views: Traveling by water is a scenic way to see Saint Petersburg from a different perspective. Your kids will enjoy passing by famous landmarks such as the Winter Palace, Palace Square, and the Peter and Paul Fortress.
- Ticket Fares: Water transport tickets typically cost around 100-150 rubles per ride for adults, and children under 7 travel for free. Children aged 7-14 usually get a discounted fare.
- Accessibility: Water transport is generally accessible for strollers, making it a great option for families with younger children.
Insider Tip:
Water transport is mainly available from late spring to early autumn, so check the timetable and routes before planning your trip.
5. Taxi and Ride-Sharing Services with Kids
If you need a more comfortable or direct way to get from one place to another with your children, taxis and ride-sharing services like Yandex.Taxi and Uber are great alternatives. These services allow for a more private and stress-free experience compared to public transport.
What to Expect:
- Convenience: Ride-sharing services are available through mobile apps, making it easy to call a car when needed. You can request a vehicle with enough space for your family and stroller.
- Pricing: Taxis can be more expensive than public transport, but they are very convenient if you’re in a rush or carrying heavy luggage or strollers. A typical ride in the city center will cost around 300-500 rubles for a short trip.
- Child Seats: Some ride-sharing services offer child seats upon request. Make sure to check the option when booking if you require one.
Insider Tip:
Using Yandex.Taxi or Uber ensures that you know the fare upfront and can avoid any confusion with drivers.
6. Tips for Traveling with Kids on Public Transport
1. Plan Ahead
- Always check the routes and schedules of buses, trams, and metro lines before you head out, especially if you’re traveling with a child in tow.
2. Travel Off-Peak
- Try to avoid traveling during peak hours (8 AM–10 AM and 5 PM–7 PM) when the metro, buses, and trams are most crowded. Traveling during quieter times will make the experience much more comfortable for you and your kids.
3. Bring Snacks and Entertainment
- Keep your kids entertained during longer journeys by bringing snacks, toys, or a tablet for movies or games. This is especially helpful for longer tram or bus rides.
4. Use Family Tickets
- If you’re planning to use public transport for several days, consider purchasing multi-ride passes or weekly cards to save money. The Podorozhnik card is a great option for multiple rides at a discounted price.
5. Be Prepared for Stairs and Crowds
- Some older metro stations may not have elevators or escalators. If you’re traveling with a stroller, it’s good to be prepared for stairs. There are also some crowded areas, so it’s important to keep a close eye on your child during rush hours.
6. Take Advantage of Free Rides for Children
- Children under 7 years old travel for free on all public transport, including the metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses. For kids aged 7-14, a discounted fare applies.
Conclusion
Traveling by public transport with kids in Saint Petersburg can be an enjoyable and stress-free experience with a little planning. Whether you’re using the metro, buses, trams, or even water transport, the city offers a range of affordable, convenient options for families. By taking advantage of discounted fares, child-friendly services, and off-peak travel, you can explore Saint Petersburg with ease and make the most of your time in this beautiful city.