The best areas to stay in St Petersburg
| Area | Best for | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Nevsky Prospekt and the centre | First visit | Between the Hermitage, St Isaac's Cathedral, the shops and restaurants. |
| Petrogradsky Island | Quiet | A calm residential area with wide streets, close to the centre by metro. |
| Vasilyevsky Island | River views | Close to the centre, overlooking the Neva. |
| Near Moskovsky station | Transport | The Sapsan high-speed train reaches Moscow in about 4 hours. |
Types of stay in St Petersburg
Historic hotels in the centre
Close to the sights.
Serviced apartments
For families.
Modern hotels
Roomier and cheaper outside the centre.
Tips before you book
- Peterhof palace and its fountains are about an hour from the city; the fountains run from about May to October.
- The white nights are in June, when the sun barely sets.
- International cards do not work in Russia, so bring enough cash.
Frequently asked questions
Do Saudis need a visa for Russia?
No, visa-free since 11 May 2026, for up to 90 days in a calendar year.
Are there direct flights to St Petersburg?
No; fly via Moscow, Dubai or Istanbul.
How far is Moscow from St Petersburg?
About 4 hours by high-speed train, or an hour and a half by plane.
More hotels in Russia
Visa
Planning your trip to Russia? Read our guide Travel to Russia from Saudi Arabia.
Last updated: October 2026. The information is for guidance only; rates and availability depend on your dates, and the binding price is the one in your booking confirmation.