Transportation
Purchasing Bus Tickets in St. Petersburg - A Comprehensive Guide
Purchasing Bus Tickets in St. Petersburg - A Comprehensive Guide
St. Petersburg, a bustling metropolis in Russia, offers various public transportation options to its residents and visitors. One of the most common and preferred methods of traveling around the city is by bus. However, many may find it confusing to purchase bus tickets due to the different methods available. This guide aims to simplify the process for you.
The Different Methods of Purchasing Bus Tickets in St. Petersburg
When it comes to purchasing bus tickets in St. Petersburg, there are several methods available. You can pay in cash inside the bus, buy a preloaded electronic card, or fill up your existing electronic card at designated machines. Let's explore each of these options in detail.
Purchasing Bus Tickets In Cash
If you prefer to pay while boarding the bus, you can do so by paying in cash to a bus company employee. The fare typically costs 40 roubles. The bus company employee will approach you within the bus and either ask to see your monthly pass or another electronic card, or request cash payment. It is an efficient and straightforward way to travel without the need to buy a card in advance.
Buying Preloaded Electronic Cards
For a more convenient and cost-effective option, you can choose to purchase a preloaded electronic card, commonly known as a podorozhnik. Here's a step-by-step guide to buying and filling up your podorozhnik at a metro station:
Step 1: Buying Your Podorozhnik
Visit a service window at any metro station in St. Petersburg. Approach a live person at the window, who will act as the cashier. You can use Russian or gestures to indicate that you want to buy a podorozhnik. The cost of a podorozhnik is currently 80 roubles, though it has increased over time from the previous 60 roubles.
Step 2: Filling Up Your Podorozhnik
Once you have your podorozhnik, you can fill it up with the desired amount of money. To do this, go back to the same cashier and instruct her to add credit to your card. Mention how much money you wish to put on your card, and proceed as follows:
Hand over the cash to the cashier. Place your card against the small device on the window sill, or tell the cashier your card number if using a bank card. Enter your PIN if using a bank card or proceed with the cashier's instructions to complete the transaction.Your podorozhnik is now ready to use for various public transportation modes, including the subway, buses, and other forms of public transport in the city.
Up-Filling Your Podorozhnik Using Machines
If you have an existing podorozhnik and wish to add more credit, you can do so using the automatic machines located at various metro entrances. These machines can be operated in multiple languages, including German, English, French, and Russian. Simply follow the instructions to add more money to your podorozhnik.
When traveling by bus, you can also use your podorozhnik, which allows you to pay for your ride a significantly lower rate than paying in cash. For instance, a single bus ride using a podorozhnik costs 31 roubles, compared to 40 roubles in cash.
Conclusion
Purchasing bus tickets in St. Petersburg is straightforward once you know the different methods available. Whether you prefer to pay in cash, buy a preloaded electronic card, or fill up your existing card, rest assured that each method is efficient and convenient. Explore these options, and you'll find the perfect way to travel the city during your visit.