How to Find Cheap Hotels in St. Petersburg, Russia

St. Petersburg's famed White Nights will put stars in your eyes. Visit any time of the year and you will be enthralled with the art, history and culture of this international city.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet access
• Valid passport and appropriate visas

Instructions

Find Your Accommodations in St. Petersburg

1. Book your accommodations online at the Russian National Group Web site (see Resources, below). You can also call them at [phone] for reservations.

2. Choose a cheap hostel in the city's historic center and enjoy the nearby Summer Gardens.

3. Go camping in the summer months. Some campsites also have cabins available, along with pools and showers. Camping in St. Petersburg is a great way to enjoy the city during the day and savor quiet nights under the sky.

4. Rent an apartment and experience the lively nightlife of one of the most beautiful cities in Russia. There is a wide range of available accommodations.

5. Stay in a 3-star hotel in St. Petersburg for a moderate price, which will sometimes include breakfast and transportation.

Use Public Transportation

1. Fly into St. Petersburg from abroad and arrive at Pulkovo II International Airport. Domestic flights arrive at Pulkovo I Domestic Airport.

2. Travel on the metro as a cheap alternative to a taxi. The metro system takes tokens or a monthly pass that can be purchased at any station.

3. Enjoy the city by trolleybus or tram, a great, cheap way to get from one side of the city to the other.

Enjoy St. Petersburg's Art and Architecture

1. Enjoy a tour of St. Petersburg's bridges. The city boasts over 300 bridges, each one full of history. The Blue Bridge in the heart of the historical city center is a good place to start, and most tours are relatively cheap.

2. Visit the Hermitage Museum to study Rembrandt's works, and then head over to the Hermitage Theatre to enjoy some chamber music.

Tips & Warnings

• Book accommodations online at official travel Web sites. They're a fast and easy way to reserve lodgings.

• Show respect when visiting local cathedrals by keeping your hands visible and wearing clothes that cover your legs. Women should also cover their heads.

• White Nights are best seen in June and early July.

• Travel in the winter to save money. It's also easier to book a room.

• Winters in Russia can be severe. Pack accordingly.

• The currency accepted is the ruble, although it is often safer to travel with traveler's checks.

• Pickpockets are common in large crowds and on buses and trolleys.