How to Travel From Sweden to St. Petersburg, Russia

Stockholm

Tourists should be on the lookout for the best balance between time and cost to travel to their next destination. Travelers looking to go from Sweden to St. Petersburg have a few good options, with all of them either originating in or routing through Stockholm. Air fares between the two great Baltic cities are reasonable, with fares ranging from $250 to $350, even in summer. Those looking for a bargain that trades time for savings can combine the ferry with a bus or rail connection.

Things You'll Need

• Passport

Instructions

Stockholm to Tallinn to St. Petersburg

1. Book passage on the ferry across the Baltic Sea to Estonia. The Tallink company operates ferries from Stockholm to Tallinn.

2. Connect to St. Petersburg by either bus or train. The bus is recommended, because it runs more frequently, and at about 20 euros and an 8-hour ride is very competitive. There is no onward ferry route.

3. Get out in St. Petersburg.

Stockholm to Helsinki to St. Petersburg

1. Book passage on the ferry to Finland. Both the Silja and Viking lines run ferries to Helsinki.

2. Transfer to a bus or train. Both buses and trains are regularly available for the trip to St. Petersburg. The 5-hour train ride between Helsinki and St. Petersburg is modern and comfortable. The ferry route to St. Petersburg was closed in 2008.

3. Get out in St. Petersburg.

Fly from Stockholm to St. Petersburg

1. Check the flights from Arlanda International Airport (ARN) in Stockholm to Pulkovo International Airport (LED) in St. Petersburg. The only direct route is by air. FinnAir, SAS and Aeroflot ply this route regularly.

2. Choose a flight that matches your schedule and budget requirements, but also one that issues e-tickets. Most, but not all, European airlines do this, and a traveler cannot wait on the mail.

3. Purchase the flight. Go to the ARN 90 to 120 minutes in advance, either by taxi or by Stockholm's airport light rail transit service.

4. Fly to St. Petersburg.

Tips & Warnings

• As the capital, and Sweden's only large city, Stockholm is at the center of its transportation network. Arranging transport by bus or train to it will be easy from all parts of the country.

• Russia is not a member of the European Union. Most Westerners are eligible for a simple tourist visa, but if you have any doubts, check the visa requirements for your country before going on to Russia.

Resources

• Euroline Buses
• Viking Ferry Line
• Tallink Ferry Line