Best Times to Visit Saint Petersburg, Russia
Quick Answer:
The best time to visit Saint Petersburg is during the shoulder seasons, May-June and September-October. These months offer a pleasant balance of comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds than the peak summer months, and the opportunity to experience the city's vibrant culture and history without the summer rush. While July and August are warm, they also attract the most tourists and can be quite expensive.
Monthly Weather Data Table
| Month | High (°C) | Low (°C) | High (°F) | Low (°F) | Rainfall (mm) | Rain Days | Daylight (h) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | -3°C | -8°C | 27°F | 18°F | 44mm | 10 days | 7h |
| Feb | -2°C | -7°C | 28°F | 19°F | 40mm | 9 days | 9h |
| Mar | 2°C | -4°C | 36°F | 25°F | 42mm | 10 days | 12h |
| Apr | 8°C | 2°C | 46°F | 36°F | 48mm | 10 days | 15h |
| May | 15°C | 7°C | 59°F | 45°F | 56mm | 11 days | 17h |
| Jun | 19°C | 11°C | 66°F | 52°F | 68mm | 12 days | 18h |
| Jul | 22°C | 14°C | 72°F | 57°F | 75mm | 13 days | 17h |
| Aug | 21°C | 13°C | 70°F | 55°F | 71mm | 12 days | 15h |
| Sep | 16°C | 9°C | 61°F | 48°F | 60mm | 11 days | 13h |
| Oct | 10°C | 4°C | 50°F | 39°F | 55mm | 10 days | 10h |
| Nov | 3°C | -1°C | 37°F | 30°F | 50mm | 10 days | 8h |
| Dec | 0°C | -5°C | 32°F | 23°F | 48mm | 10 days | 7h |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Saint Petersburg?
The best time to visit Saint Petersburg is during the shoulder seasons, spring (May-June) and autumn (September-October), for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summers are long and white nights are beautiful, but it's also the most crowded and expensive time to visit.
What is the weather like in Saint Petersburg?
Saint Petersburg has a humid continental climate. Expect cool, wet springs; warm, humid summers; crisp autumns; and cold, snowy winters. Pack layers, as the weather can change quickly.
How much does a trip to Saint Petersburg cost?
The cost of a trip to Saint Petersburg varies greatly depending on your travel style, length of stay, and time of year. Expect to spend at least $100-$150 per day for budget travel and significantly more for luxury travel. Flights can be expensive, especially during peak season.
What are some must-see attractions in Saint Petersburg?
Saint Petersburg boasts many iconic landmarks! Must-sees include the Hermitage Museum, Peter and Paul Fortress, Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, Catherine Palace (in Pushkin), and the many stunning bridges and canals.
What is the local currency and are credit cards widely accepted?
The local currency is the Russian ruble (RUB). While credit cards are becoming more widely accepted, it's advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments and outside of major tourist areas.
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