Saint Petersburg Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Saint Petersburg.
Healthcare System
Russia has a two-tier healthcare system with state-funded facilities and private clinics. State hospitals provide free emergency care to all, including foreigners, but quality and comfort levels vary significantly. Private clinics offer higher standards of care with English-speaking staff but require payment upfront or valid insurance.
Hospitals
Major private clinics for tourists include American Medical Clinic (+7 812 740 20 90), MEDEM International Clinic (+7 812 336 33 33), and Euromed Clinic. These facilities have English-speaking staff, accept international insurance, and provide Western-standard care. For emergencies, state hospitals like City Hospital #26 and Mariinsky Hospital provide adequate care.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (аптека/apteka) are widespread throughout the city, marked with green crosses. Many operate 24/7 in central areas. Common medications are available over the counter, but bring prescriptions for controlled substances. Pharmacists are knowledgeable but may not speak English. International brands may be unavailable due to sanctions; bring essential medications with you.
Insurance
Travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage is strongly recommended and may be required for visa applications. Ensure your policy covers medical evacuation, as this may be necessary for serious conditions. Verify that your insurance is valid for Russia and covers repatriation costs. Many international credit card insurance policies may not cover travel to Russia currently.
Healthcare Tips
- Bring sufficient supplies of prescription medications in original packaging with prescriptions, as international brands may be unavailable
- Keep contact information for private clinics and your embassy readily available
- Consider purchasing medical evacuation insurance for serious health emergencies
- Tap water is not recommended for drinking; stick to bottled water
- Private clinics require payment upfront or insurance guarantee letters before treatment
- Learn basic Russian medical terms or use translation apps for communication
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Pickpocketing and bag snatching occur in crowded tourist areas, public transportation (especially metro), and popular attractions. Thieves often work in groups and target distracted tourists.
Unlicensed taxis and official taxis without meters may significantly overcharge tourists. Some drivers refuse to use meters or claim they're broken.
Police may conduct random document checks, particularly of foreign-looking individuals. While usually legitimate, some corrupt officers may attempt to extract bribes for minor or fabricated violations.
Incidents of drink spiking occur in some bars and nightclubs, sometimes followed by robbery. 'Honeytrap' scams involve attractive individuals luring tourists to bars with inflated prices.
Violent crime against tourists is rare but can occur, particularly late at night in poorly lit areas or when intoxicated. Muggings occasionally happen in isolated areas.
Winter temperatures can drop below -20°C (-4°F) with icy conditions. Summer white nights can disrupt sleep patterns. Sudden weather changes occur year-round.
International sanctions have severely limited credit card usage. Most Western credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) don't work in Russia. ATMs may not accept foreign cards.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Individuals posing as plainclothes police approach tourists, claim to be investigating counterfeit money or drugs, and ask to check wallets or passports. They may steal cash or demand bribes.
Some establishments targeting tourists add hidden charges, substitute expensive items, or bring unrequested dishes. The bill arrives significantly higher than expected, sometimes with intimidation if disputed.
Street performers or people in costumes (often near tourist sites) pose for photos then aggressively demand large payments, sometimes with accomplices who intimidate tourists into paying.
Street money changers or unofficial exchange offices offer attractive rates but use sleight of hand to short-change tourists, provide counterfeit bills, or switch denominations during the transaction.
Scalpers sell fake or invalid tickets to popular attractions, theaters, or events at inflated prices near venues. Tickets may be photocopies or already used.
Taxi drivers run meters on higher rates, take unnecessarily long routes, claim the meter is broken, or quote prices in dollars but charge in rubles at inflated exchange rates.
An attractive person befriends a tourist, suggests going to a specific bar or restaurant, orders expensive items, then disappears leaving the tourist with an enormous bill and threatening staff.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Documentation
- Always carry copies of your passport, visa, and migration card; keep originals in hotel safe
- Register with your embassy upon arrival for emergency notifications
- Photograph all important documents and store digitally in cloud storage
- Carry hotel business cards with address in Russian for taxi drivers
- Ensure your visa registration is completed within required timeframe (usually 7 days)
- Keep evidence of travel insurance and emergency contact numbers accessible
Money and Cards
- Bring sufficient cash (USD or EUR) as most Western cards don't work due to sanctions
- Use official exchange offices in banks, never street exchangers
- Consider obtaining a UnionPay card before travel if possible
- Keep money in multiple secure locations, not all in one place
- Inform your bank of travel plans, though most Western cards still won't function
- Keep small denomination bills for everyday purchases and tips
Transportation
- Use the metro system which is safe, efficient, and affordable (avoid rush hours 8-9am, 6-7pm)
- Download Yandex.Taxi or Gett apps for reliable taxi service with fixed prices
- Avoid unmarked taxis and always agree on price before departure if not using apps
- Be vigilant on public transport for pickpockets, especially on crowded metro lines
- Purchase a metro card (Podorozhnik) for convenient travel
- Keep belongings secure and in sight on all public transportation
Communication
- Download offline translation apps (Google Translate with Russian language pack)
- Learn basic Russian phrases for emergencies and common situations
- Get a local SIM card for data and local calls (bring unlocked phone)
- Have addresses written in Cyrillic for taxi drivers and directions
- Save embassy contact numbers in your phone
- Be aware that some Western messaging apps and social media may have limited access
Accommodation
- Stay in reputable hotels or verified accommodations in central, well-lit areas
- Use hotel safes for valuables, passport, and extra cash
- Verify accommodation registration requirements for visa compliance
- Keep hotel contact information and address in Russian readily available
- Inform hotel staff of your daily plans when traveling alone
- Check reviews carefully and book through established platforms
Cultural Awareness
- Dress conservatively when visiting religious sites (cover shoulders and knees, women may need headscarves)
- Photography is prohibited in many museums and government buildings; always ask first
- Avoid discussing politics, especially topics related to international conflicts
- Be respectful of local customs and avoid loud or disruptive behavior in public
- Remove shoes when entering someone's home
- Don't smile excessively at strangers as this may be seen as insincere or suspicious
Health Precautions
- Drink only bottled or boiled water; tap water is not recommended
- Bring comprehensive first aid kit and all necessary medications
- Get travel vaccinations recommended for Russia (consult travel clinic)
- Be cautious with street food; stick to reputable restaurants
- Protect against mosquitoes in summer months, especially near water
- Wash hands frequently and carry hand sanitizer
Night Safety
- Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas or peripheral neighborhoods after dark
- Stick to main streets and well-populated areas at night
- Limit alcohol consumption and never leave drinks unattended
- Use official transportation rather than walking long distances at night
- Travel in groups when possible, especially in nightlife areas
- Be aware that during white nights (summer), 'night' is barely dark and activities continue very late
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Saint Petersburg is generally safe for women travelers who take standard precautions. Solo female travelers are common, and the city has low rates of violent crime. However, women may experience verbal harassment, unwanted attention, or catcalling, particularly from intoxicated individuals at night. Russian culture can be more traditional regarding gender roles, but women traveling alone are not unusual in tourist areas.
- Dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention; avoid revealing clothing especially outside tourist areas
- Be firm and confident when declining unwanted approaches; ignore catcalls rather than engaging
- Avoid walking alone late at night, especially in poorly lit areas or peripheral neighborhoods
- Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps rather than accepting rides from strangers
- Sit in metro cars with other passengers rather than empty cars, especially late at night
- Book accommodations in central, well-reviewed areas with good lighting and security
- Trust your instincts; if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself immediately
- Consider joining group tours for evening activities rather than going alone
- Keep phone charged and have emergency contacts readily available
- Be aware that solo women in bars may attract unwanted attention or scam attempts
- Learn basic Russian phrases for 'leave me alone' (оставьте меня в покое) and 'help' (помогите)
- Carry a whistle or personal alarm for emergencies
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Homosexuality is legal in Russia (decriminalized in 1993), but LGBTQ+ rights are severely limited. The 2013 'gay propaganda' law prohibits public discussion or promotion of 'non-traditional sexual relationships' to minors, which has been broadly interpreted. Same-sex marriage is not recognized, and there are no anti-discrimination protections. The legal environment is hostile to LGBTQ+ rights.
- Avoid public displays of affection with same-sex partners to prevent harassment or violence
- Do not openly discuss LGBTQ+ topics in public spaces or with strangers
- Be extremely discreet about sexual orientation and gender identity
- Research LGBTQ+-friendly accommodations carefully and book through trusted sources
- The underground LGBTQ+ scene exists but is very discreet; seek local advice through trusted online communities before visiting venues
- Do not wear rainbow symbols or LGBTQ+ identifying clothing or accessories in public
- Be aware that local authorities may not be supportive if incidents occur
- Consider whether travel to Russia aligns with your personal safety and values given the legal and social environment
- Register with your embassy and ensure they have your contact information
- Have emergency plans and know your embassy's location and contact information
- Be cautious using dating apps as there have been reports of entrapment and violence
- Avoid discussing LGBTQ+ topics online while in Russia as communications may be monitored
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is essential for visiting Saint Petersburg and may be required for visa applications. Medical evacuation can cost tens of thousands of dollars, and many Western credit cards won't work due to sanctions, making insurance-covered medical care critical. The geopolitical situation adds complexity, as some insurers exclude coverage for Russia or have specific restrictions. Without insurance, you may need to pay large sums upfront for medical care at private facilities.