Saint Petersburg is an underrated coastal city known for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. So, whether you're exploring the museums, eating the delicious cuisine, or relaxing on the beaches, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip to Saint Petersburg, all while staying within budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Saint Petersburg?
You should plan to spend around $239 per day on your vacation in Saint Petersburg. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $84 on meals
- $47 on local transportation
- $253 on hotels
A one week trip to Saint Petersburg for two people costs, on average, $3,346. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
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One Week
Per person
$1,673
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2 Weeks
Per person
$3,346
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One Month
Per person
$7,170
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One Week
For a couple
$3,346
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2 Weeks
For a couple
$6,692
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One Month
For a couple
$14,340
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Saint Petersburg cost?
A one week trip to Saint Petersburg usually costs around $1,673 for one person and $3,346 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Saint Petersburg on average costs around $3,346 for one person and $6,692 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Saint Petersburg will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Saint Petersburg on average costs around $7,170 for one person and $14,340 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Saint Petersburg expensive to visit?
Saint Petersburg is a popular coastal city that appeals to many visitors, featuring an array of travel styles and spending habits. Affordable hotel choices are available, but luxury hotels also cater to the more affluent clientele, along with mid-range accommodations that are perfect for families and couples.
Saint Petersburg can be very expensive if you want it to be, but there are ways to cut down on your costs, like eating at less expensive restaurants and spending long days at the beach.
On average, budget travelers spend $101 per day, mid-range travelers spend $239 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $504 per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Saint Petersburg.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Saint Petersburg is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Bangor or Seattle.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Saint Petersburg Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Saint Petersburg?
The average Saint Petersburg trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Saint Petersburg travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Saint Petersburg cost?
Saint Petersburg on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$55
|
$127
|
$251
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$21
|
$47
|
$93
|
|
Food 2
|
$34
|
$84
|
$197
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$5.94
|
$13
|
$25
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$9-27
|
$21-62
|
$40-119
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's essential to keep realistic expectations for your travel budget. Many people think they can visit Saint Petersburg cheaply, but most travelers aren't comfortable with an extreme "shoestring" budget. Consider what you truly enjoy on vacation. Do you prefer resorts, vacation homes, or hostels? Is experiencing attractions and dining important to you? Your budget and itinerary will depend on your answers to these questions.
What Defines a Budget Traveler?
You might consider yourself a budget traveler, but if you're not ready to give up some comforts, prepare to spend a lot more than the $101 per day that younger budget travelers manage.
Backpackers will usually stick to this shoestring budget by staying in hostel dorms, dining at the cheapest spots such as fast food places, using public transit, and mostly visiting free attractions.
The culinary scene is a major highlight for those visiting Saint Petersburg, but budget travelers often eat street food or cook for themselves in hostels, which can mean missing out on delicious local dishes.
So, are you average?
If you're a couple or family taking a fun trip, you'll probably prefer a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at favorite restaurants, and visit the main museums and attractions that require entry fees. A significant number of visitors to Saint Petersburg will want to tour the main attractions, museums, and landmarks. Most activities have costs involved. Thus, it's realistic to expect your daily budget to be closer to $239 per person, per day.
There are a wide range of hotels and vacation rentals in Saint Petersburg. If you're traveling with others, you'll share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, so costs will be split accordingly, saving money. When traveling as a family, you'll want to find hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. The Inn On Third is a good kid-friendly option, and Hollander Hotel - Downtown St Petersburg is also terrific. You'll find more hotels that cater to families and couples in our hotel guide for Saint Petersburg here.
Want to Experience a Luxurious Trip?
If your ideal trip includes every luxury and top-tier service, be ready to budget around $504 per day. A stay at nicer hotels, meals at prestigious restaurants, fancy excursions, and getting around the coastal city with taxis or private drivers will cost you more.
Accommodation Budget in Saint Petersburg
Prices for hotels in Saint Petersburg vary widely, with luxury hotels charging more due to higher amenities. In the off-season, expect to pay around $159, but during peak fall season, average prices climb to $297. With options ranging from $108 to $610, there's something for every budget. Hostels are usually cheaper, especially dorm rooms. To save, book during the off-season or keep an eye out for special deals.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Saint Petersburg for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $253. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $127 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Saint Petersburg? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Saint Petersburg include:
- Hollander Hotel - Downtown St Petersburg starting at $143
- Hampton Inn & Suites St Petersburg/Downtown starting at $159
- Hyatt Place St Petersburg/Downtown starting at $215
- The Birchwood starting at $219
- Crystal Bay Hotel Saint Petersburg starting at $162
Saint Petersburg is known for being family friendly, so when traveling with kids, look for accommodations that offer more space.
By traveling in the off-peak times like the low or shoulder season, and steering clear of fall, you'll find cheaper lodging and smaller crowds.
Transportation Budget in Saint Petersburg
The public transit system in Saint Petersburg is not very good. There's a bus system, but most people rely on their own car to get around.
Sadly, walking around most of the coastal city is quite challenging. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, but you really need a car to access most places.
Public Transit: 
(moderate)
Walkability: (moderate)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $47 per person, per day, on local transportation in Saint Petersburg. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Saint Petersburg is significantly more than public transportation.
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Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$47
When driving, it's important to check that your hotel has good parking options.
How much does it cost to go to Saint Petersburg? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Saint Petersburg will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Saint Petersburg
The food scene in Saint Petersburg is incredible, so be sure to spend time tasting all the local dishes. It's location on the Gulf Coast means that seafood is everywhere. You'll enjoy fresh oysters, fried calamari, grilled fish, and fried shrimp on many menus. Casual restaurants and local eateries are common around town.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Saint Petersburg can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Saint Petersburg is $84 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
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Food2
Meals for one day
$84
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Saint Petersburg is around $84 ($84) per person, with previous travelers spending from $34 to $197. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Saint Petersburg are as follows:
- Breakfast: $8 to $25
- Lunch: $13 to $34
- Dinner: $25 to $59
- Coffee: $7
- Fast Food or Street Food: $13
Like any popular vacation destination, Saint Petersburg has plenty of dining options to satisfy all tastes and budgets. There are a number of places serving anything from small bites to indulgent meals, especially in the downtown area. With its location along the gulf coast, Saint Petersburg also has a number of great seafood restaurants to match. From rustic oyster bars and open-air cafes to candlelit restaurants, any eatery in in the city will offer a wide variety of fresh fish and seafood. Though the seafood is sure to please, you can also find familiar chain restaurants and other eateries serving just about anything you could crave - steak, sushi, wood-oven-fired pizzas, authentic Asian cuisine, or a hearty hamburger. Some of the top places to grab some grub as rated on TripAdvisor include Mazzaro's Italian Market, Bodega Comida Cantina Cafe, Jack's London Grill, Trip's Diner, Parkshore Grill, The Mill, Locale Market, and 400 Beach Seafood and Tap House, amongst others.
When eating out with children, look for places that provide a kids' menu. This can help you save a significant amount since those meals are typically priced lower. Be aware that some restaurants may not list the kids' options, so it's wise to inquire with your waiter beforehand.
Lots of hotels throw breakfast into the room rate, but some will charge for it. The quality and price can differ by hotel. Understanding this in advance can help you figure out if you'll need to spend extra money. It may be worth splurging on the hotel buffet, or you could find a less expensive option at a nearby bakery or cafe.
Carry a water bottle with you instead of buying drinks everywhere. It's also good for the environment.
Before booking a tour, make a point of knowing which meals are part of the package. You may be responsible for some of your food costs, which can increase your overall budget.
Typical food prices in Saint Petersburg, as reported by previous travelers, are outlined below. These costs offer a snapshot of what meals might cost in the city. Your personal expenses will vary depending on the type of dining experiences you choose and the dishes you order.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Saint Petersburg
It's no wonder that tourists flock to Saint Petersburg, as it is known for its beaches, museums and attractions, food, and family-friendly activities.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Saint Petersburg typically cost an average of $13 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$13
One of the best known attractions in the city is perhaps the Waterfront Art District's Salvador Dali Museum. The museum is home to the largest collection of Dali artwork in the United States with a permanent collection that includes over 2,000 works from every moment and in every medium of his artistic career including 96 oil paintings, original drawings, book illustrations, prints, sculpture, photos, manuscripts, and an extensive archive of documents. Saint Petersburg has a flourishing social atmosphere with many arts and entertainment options. Other popular museums include the Chihuly Collection and and Florida Holocaust Museum, while common theatre venues include the Freefall Theatre and the American Stage Theatre Company.
The Sunken Gardens, a lush oasis of plant life in the heart of Saint Petersburg, is another common place to visit. About 15 feet below street level, the gardens include 4 acres of well-established botanical gardens, featuring some of the oldest tropical plants in the region amidst meandering paths and cascading waterfalls. Other popular green areas include Sawgrass Lake Park, Weedon Island Preserve, the Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, and a number of city parks.
Saint Petersburg, the "Sunshine City," is not only a place of pleasant weather and sunny beaches, but also a city of blooming culture with much to experience in art and entertainment. By day, you might meander along the shore, sunbathe, swim, go boating or kayaking, or even visit one of the city's serene park areas. And by night, you might return to the heart of the city to experience its many galleries and museums, grab a bite to eat, and indulge in the nightlife exploring the bar scene or going to a show at the theater.
Museums and Attractions:
Saint Petersburg's museums and landmarks are must-sees for any visitor. There are a variety of history, science, and art museums in the area. The Dalí Museum, Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, The Florida Holocaust Museum, and Imagine Museum of Contemporary Glass Art are some of the favorites.
Beaches:
Lots of folks head to Saint Petersburg just to kick back at the beach. You'll find great sandy beaches with calm blue water and a relaxed atmosphere. Some of the best beaches include Egmont Key, Fort DeSoto Beach, Maximo Beach, and St. Pete's Municipal Beach.
Nightlife Budget in Saint Petersburg
Saint Petersburg does have some nightlife activities, but it doesn't compare to the excitement found in more popular destinations. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a night out.
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $41 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Saint Petersburg per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$41
Nightlife is a blast when traveling, but scaling back on drinks can really help stretch your travel budget.
When you're out at night and drinking, be aware of what's going on around you. You could become a target for pickpockets or other crimes, so it's safest to stay in groups.
Traveling in Saint Petersburg
St. Petersburg, Florida, USA
Located at the base of the Tampa Bay peninsula of Florida, Saint Petersburg is a city known for its pleasant weather, coastal activities, and downtown arts scene. Nicknamed the "Sunshine City," Saint Petersburg is also a popular location for golfing, boating, fishing and beachgoing in addition to the usual entertainment options to be found in a thriving city.
Neighborhoods & Around
Saint Petersburg's downtown is a beautiful waterfront area, thriving both day and night. It is further divided into smaller districts which include the Waterfront Arts District, Central Arts District, The Edge District, Grand Central District, and Warehouse Arts District. The Waterfront Arts District is home to world-class Museums such as The Dalí Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the St. Petersburg Museum of History, along with the performing arts at The Palladium and American Stage Theatre Company. The Central Arts District has plenty of opportunity for local cuisine, unique boutiques, live music, fresh brewed coffee, handmade gifts, craft beer, and more as well. The Edge District is committed to historic preservation-based revitalization and creating a sustainable local economy with many independent businesses, the Grand Central District with many galleries and studios hosts events and festivals throughout the year, and the Warehouse Arts District is primarily an industrial area with some budding artists. Throughout the entire downtown, visitors will also find a number of waterfront galleries, shopping, dining, nightlife, movies, lush green parks, and more.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.