Pulkovo Airport
Airport guide 2026

Pulkovo Airport LED

Russia

The Pulkovo Airport serves St. Petersburg, Russia's second-largest city, famous for its UNESCO heritage historic center and surrounding imperial palaces.

As with other major Russian airports, international traffic to Western Europe has been suspended since 2022: always verify with your airline the available transit routes.

Content verified on 04/09/2026
Official source: pulkovoairport.ru

How to get to Pulkovo Airport

Saint Petersburg city centre is about 17 km from the airport: transfer takes approximately 30-40 minutes by taxi or bus + metro.

By Car

Those arriving by car reach the center of Saint Petersburg in approximately 30-40 minutes.

By Train

To arrive by train a transfer is necessary, as there is no direct connection.

By Bus

A dedicated bus connects the airport to Moskovskaya metro station, from which you can continue to the city centre.
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Tips International credit cards do not work in Russia: bring sufficient cash in a major currency outside the EU for any travel, including bus and metro tickets.

Average travel time to LED

TrainNot available
Shuttle busAvailable service (bus + Moskovskaya metro)
Taxi / Private hire30-40 minutes

Parking near Pulkovo Airport

A multi-storey parking structure is adjacent to the terminal building.

Parking rates are in line with the standards of a major hub, but verify accepted payment methods.

How to get to Saint Petersburg from LED

By Train

There is no direct train to the airport: a transfer is necessary.

By Bus

A dedicated bus connects the airport to Moskovskaya metro station, from where you can continue to the city center.

By Taxi

Official taxi ranks are located in the arrival area: it is better to agree on a price, since paying with foreign cards can be complicated.

Need an airport transfer?

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Car rental at Pulkovo Airport

Not all car rental brands are represented: only a few have a counter.

A valid driving licence, passport and cash are required; verify in advance that your international credit card is accepted.

 

Hotels near Pulkovo Airport

 

Many hotels are located in the historic centre of Saint Petersburg, close to the Hermitage and Nevsky Prospekt.

Downtown hotels (30–40 minutes; prices subject to fluctuation due to currency volatility) are convenient for exploring the imperial palaces; always check the latest government security advisories before your trip.

Airport services

The airport is Russia's second major hub, today with connections primarily to Russia, CIS nations, and Asia.

Shopping & Duty Free

There is a duty-free shop featuring local items and major international brands.

Lounges & relaxation

Business-class lounges are available to eligible passengers.

Connectivity & Wi-Fi

WiFi covers only certain areas of the terminal.

Families & Children

Families with children can count on a minimal but present service.

Terminal guide

The terminal, the country's second-largest hub by traffic, currently handles connections concentrated on Russia, the CIS and some Asian routes.

Given the possibility of unexpected closures due to drone alerts, it is prudent to arrive well in advance.

Map of Pulkovo Airport

Map of Pulkovo Airport

Frequently asked questions

Q. How do you get from Pulkovo to central St Petersburg?

By the dedicated bus to Moskovskaya metro station, from where you continue into the centre, or by taxi (30-40 minutes).

Q. Are there direct flights between St Petersburg and Western Europe?

No, since 2022 there have been no direct flights between Russia and the EU/UK/United States.

Q. Do international cards work at Pulkovo?

No, always bring enough cash in a major non-EU currency for any expense, including public transport tickets.

Q. Is St Petersburg a UNESCO World Heritage site?

Yes, its historic centre and related monument complexes are recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Flight board

Real-time status of arriving and departing flights

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